A Powerful Movie About Isolation

Before watching this movie, I insist greatly that you check the tags, understand the trigger warnings laid within them, and be prepared for a dark and twisted tale.

This is a very powerful movie about isolation and what people go through to survive it. Both the female and male leads are lonely and isolated. Chihiro due to being drawn into a violent cycle of abuse that repeats over and over. Isolated from those she knows and loves and with a child to protect she often keeps her head down. Naoto due to his practically invisible existence from as early as he can remember. All he wants in life is to, for once, not be forgotten.

I will give you a sincere tip. This movie is not for the light-hearted. However, if you're doing a binge day of jdrama shows/movies -- I would suggest watching the drama "Fishbowl Wives" (2022), and THEN watching this movie. I walked in blind to "Fishbowl Wives" and then randomly found this movie. The combination was dynamite. I don't know how to explain it, but it was like watching the same lead protagonists story -- only from a COMPLETELY different view points.

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A Risqué Story of Survival and Love

In only moments, Ting Yao's family is massacred and she arrives only moments too late. Her father's dying words were to seek asylum at the Governor's house where she will find safety with her arranged betrothal. Ting Yao's only met her betrothed once, when they were both children. Only for Fang Tian Yi, the warlord and govenor of the territory, to come stampeding through the doors with his troops and believe her the one who slaughtered her entire family. Now captive to Fang Tian Yi, she manages to escape and make her way to the Governor's house only to come to the realization that her maid has taken her place as the fiancé. In a cruelhearted ruse, Ting Yao's once maidservant offers her asylum only if she becomes her maid. Ting Yao accepts, hoping to work the situation to her benefit and to stay safe until she can acquire her rightful place as the Mistress of the house.

Fast paced, powerful, sexy, and risqué -- this was a wonderful romp of some tropes many others prefer to leave alone. A cold aggressive man lead with secrets of his own. Another man who appears to be the polar opposite, warm-hearted, kind, and soft-spoken. And a woman who's cunning and recognizes that now is the time to lay low and play her cards right. But soon, she will make her way to thriving instead of just surviving. No happily ever after here, so viewer beware!

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Visually Orgasmic With Brilliant Colors and Fight Scenes

The storyline is very simple.
Revenge for a female friend.
Revenge for all those that came before or after her.

The cinematography is what makes this movie. The spins, the angles, and the brilliantly placed COLORS. Like something straight out of the Cyberpunk world: there are neons that highlight and low-light the entire film. It's fast-paced, and the angles are perfectly planned like something straight out of a well-drawn graphic novel. It doesn't require a heavy amount of brain-power, but is an absolute feast for the eyes. I would definitely suggest you watch. For any videographer, photographer, artist, or even for your one-time viewer. You won't be sorry you spent your time watching it.

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A story of infatuation, a need to please and possess. This isn't a love story. However, it IS a story -about- love.

Colonel Kim Jin Pyeong has settled into a quiet life after Vietnam. Despite PTSD and nightmares, he finds himself doing what he has to, to simply get through day-by-day. He carries an air of cold indifference wherever he goes, and whatever he does. Whether it's conversations with his wife, eating, sleeping, or shagging -- he's basically just existing. Until Jong Ga Heun moves in across the street, the wife of his subordinate. He realizes instantly that she is different from the other women that surround him on the base and in the residences. Calm, collected, cool; and oddly candid. It's a story about two people who are unhappy with the lives they are living, and how they try to find a way to manage the apathy.

I will admit, the lack of emotion between the two lead characters was stifling. I honestly never thought I'd see cardboard act with cardboard. However, after finishing, there was a moment when I teared up. I wasn't expecting it. If there was a way to put the acting in most of this film, it would be the words 'deadpan delivery'. Constantly. There is so little emotion from the two lead characters, and still even, a lack of chemistry, but perhaps that was intended. Since the characters seem to just be looking to escape their lives and themselves for a while. I wasn't drawn into the 'love story', but I suppose that's because it isn't a love story. The sets are nice, the lighting was well done, and the music is nothing to write home about. I suppose if I were, to sum up how I feel about this movie, the singular word would be: meh.

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This Movie is Filmed Like How You Feel Emotions

I will immediately start this off by saying that you're either going to love this movie or hate it. I have a genuine feeling that there is no middle ground. I truly loved it, but again, it's going to be a total trainwreck for some, and a piece of art for others.

"'First love' never turns into past tense." - Hot Gimmick

This is a powerful film about self-recognition, and learning about one's self. To steal moments for yourself and to share yourself with others and to make decisions for today while hoping that tomorrow, the sun will rise, and you will continue on.

The cinematography is flickering, fleeting glimpses at points just as these emotions change throughout the movie. This entire movie is filmed in the way one would feel emotions during the introduction of your first love. Everything is fast, confusing, and flickering. Did you feel sure of everything you did? Were your steps hesitant? Did you feel despair at point only to feel the thrill of elation shortly after?

The color changes the way emotions feel and each emotion and experience with a different person, or a different moment. The classical music that twists through the strife, the sexual tension, and the elated moments when Hatsumi accepts herself were (surprisingly) perfect. It's been a while since I've known every single classical piece on a soundtrack. It didn't feel tacked on either. It actually suited the film's artsy side, all while keeping it instrumental and not distracting you with lyrics.

I would definitely rewatch this movie.

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All You Want From a Full-Length Drama in Two Episodes!

A high school girl ends up running off as it rains to skip her SATS and vanishes into a puddle only to be transported into the Joseon past! Dan Bi, your average high schooler with doubts and dreams of the future, finds herself in the Joseon dynasty and having to use her modern-day wits and knowledge of math and science from high school to keep herself useful to the king. This story is sweet and manages to fulfill all the wants you tend to have from a drama, all packed into two episodes! There's adventure, romance, and even two assassination attempts! It's a great romp from start to finish, and it has a happily ever after, too! Couldn't have asked for more! Am delighted I managed to randomly see this!

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Tae-sun Lee Steals the Show!

I loved this show so much. The storyline, the twists, the chemistry between the characters -- everything was fabulous. The romance was there, the action was there, the drama was there, and it was beautifully done as a historic piece. However, the one person who stood out to me was Kim Myung-jin played by Tae-sun Lee. I genuinely loved it.

I was conflicted, moved, and whereas some are not a fan of the historic dramas having women dressing up as men, I am a fan. It negates the need for a heavy presence of romance while still having it for the protagonists who either knowingly or unknowingly find themselves attracted to a somewhat androgynous character in men's clothing.

I will definitely rewatch it should the occasion arise in the future as it was worth watching once and will be worth watching in the future. :)

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Yandere and a Serial Killer?

That is a mind-blowing combo. A young man who is going around and killing people through a dating app that was designed by the our FL. They meet and perhaps it is her unique disinterest or lack of fear of his presence -- he takes an immediate interest in her after they kill a cat that was hit by a car 'together'. It's a strange scene. It draws him to her immediately. I loved this so much (I'm a weird one, what can I say?) -- and I can't say much else without ruining it, aside from the fact that it's definitely got a mature rating for a reason. I am surprised by the lackluster reviews for it.

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Go Kyung Pyo MAKES The Show!

A writer in a slump, a happy-go-lucky woman, and a stranger in a suit all have something in common, but what exactly is it? A dark secret between half-brothers, and a deeper, darker secret from 80 years ago during a revolution begins a series of events that years later can't be stopped. The power of love and friendship has brought three souls back together decades years later and the bonds made are unbreakable as they reconnect. Whether drawn together by fate, or by chance, is up to the viewer to decide.

Go Kyung Pyo STEALS the show! From his constantly serious and deadpan delivery in "Love in Contract" to this expressive character, I couldn't stop laughing. The story is a fabulous spin and was so unique and adorable to me. It had its passionate moments, the true feelings of frustration when one suffers from writer's block or creative panic, and the heartbreakingly tragic moments that I didn't expect at all, especially in the first half of the drama. I also didn't expect myself to get drawn into the story as aggressively as I did, but I started it late last night and couldn't stop watching. I'm still awake now, and writing this review.

Many people would consider this to be a somewhat 'reverse-harem' concept because there are SO many suitors. The main female lead must be like catnip to cats only to men. This is a common trope in MANY kdramas and cdramas. However, I've often felt that if you're going to watch a love triangle story, then it's the QUALITY of the suitors, not the QUANTITY. And whereas two are basically filler (one of course is a bad guy), the two main leads love passionately.

Whereas at the beginning one is a hate-to-love, the other is someone who loves wholeheartedly and unquestioningly. Even when he refers to their past life, he refers to the FL as 'THEIR comrade and lover'. There was no questioning of where his, their, or her loyalty lie. He simply accepted that they all loved one another, whether as brother, friend, confidante, or comrade -- together they shared love (and her love), and he never questioned it.

That is a rarity in itself. I've only seen a character like this created ONCE in Western media, much less in a kdrama and that was in the movie "Savages" (2012). It is unusual for a drama to ever accept the 1st/2nd lead's love for the main character. Whether it be a female or male first lead that is being 'fought over' -- there is rarely ever a middle ground or a complete understanding that the love by both characters for the lead is acceptable. It is more often verbal or physical fighting that happens in a drama.

The storyline itself was fun for me. I particularly enjoyed the mention of Stephen King, and even quoting him. As a Stephen King fan, I was surprised by this and enjoyed it immensely. If you're looking for a love triangle that's not really a love triangle (it is but it isn't -- I don't know how to explain it unless you watch it), with a unique storyline, hilarious and awkward moments, with adorable characters and BEAUTIFUL architecture featuring a LOT of books, and many quotes from wonderful authors -- this is the drama for you.

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A Powerful Story of Revenge and Redemption

'My Name' is a dark and violent story of a daughter's vengeance. Starting at the bottom of a crime ring, one young woman who witnessed her father's death seeks to rise up from the very ashes of her own ruined life to seek revenge. With the help of the crime lord who knew her father, she erases her very name and past to enter the ranks of the police force to find her father's murderer.

I was absolutely enthralled by the first episode. The tragedy that becomes a 'phoenix from the ashes' story as the female lead transitions from someone weak and powerless into someone driven and capable really hits home as you witness her near one-track mind to hunt down the man who murdered her father, only for there to be growth, self-realization, and learning to live, all while fighting to actually stay alive in the turbulent world she's thrown herself headlong into.

The script and story, the filming and lighting, the soundtrack and the acting: it was all you could ask for and more. The entire series is short, only eight episodes, and is perfect for a binge session if that's what you're looking for. Covering the genres of crime, mystery, thriller, action, and even a passionate romance (enemies to lovers) -- this story has it all and is packed with power while still maintaining a great storyline. It's action-packed while being all about the plot and story with no filler or fluff.

The fight scenes are a force to be reckoned with, and beautifully executed. The lighting is masterfully done with the colors being vibrant and crisp with great contrast. The camera angles and lines are excellent and clear. The acting is flawless and each character plays their part perfectly. The soundtrack is so dynamic and complimentary to each scene and episode. It's been a while since I've seen something I enjoyed so thoroughly. 10/10. Would watch again!

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Superman as a Korean Drama - Definitely Worth Watching!

A man who is basically a hidden superhero (albeit they refer to him so much less as an 'errand boy') in the community who comes to help people in their darkest moments. He holds no prejudice and is happy to work for those who are willing to pay for his unique services. He is a man of a million faces and can blend in and out of a crowd effortlessly.

The description of the show is somewhat misleading. I would honestly say that where there are multiple leads -- that Healer and Chae Young Shin are the main leaders in this, but there are some amazing side stories that make others into leads as well. So many different stories, interwoven -- it was fantastic to watch and wonderful to experience. I was more than a little lost at the beginning because it kind of throws you into the middle of a story without explaining what the heck is going on -- but I loved it nonetheless. If you find yourself lost during the first episode -- PLEASE -- push to the 2nd, 3rd, and yes, even 4th episode -- you will find yourself so involved, you won't be able to let go.

The whole "The Boat That Rocked" (2009) concept, where people had to keep moving in order to record the news without being apprehended for speaking a) the truth, and b) their minds -- was a wonderful concept. I am a fan of how Korean dramas tend to have the fate concept written in. As in, something happened when they were children, or they knew each other as children, and later on in life found one another. This is not just action, comedy, thriller, but also romance. It's well-written, and there is great chemistry between the characters.

I am a huge fan of Ahjumma's (Kim Mi-Kyung) character, and have watched her in countless shows. Such as 'Crash Course for Romance', 'Heirs', and 'It's Okay to Not Be Okay'. Ji Chang-Wook in 'Melting Me Softly', 'Backstreet Rookie', 'Suspicious Partner' and much more. I've also seen Yoo Ji-tae in 'The House That Jack Built', and 'Old Boy' (2003). They are all wonderfully beautiful and attractive people, no matter what role they are playing. There are many great actors and actresses in this series, and I would suggest it to anyone even if you're just starting out on your kdrama journey.

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Funny, and Fun to Watch!

The camera angles in the beginning are just mind-blowing. I've never seen anything aside from a music video filmed like that. The introduction to the show had me hooked immediately. A spunky female street-rat lead with her stand-in father-like figure who can often see the future are where this story starts. Alongside this opening storyline, is a king who cannot sleep or eat well after the death of his first and only wife. As others are known to say, 'misery enjoys company' and within this time a marriage ban is enacted. No physical contact, no flirting, no love letters, nothing to do with love is permitted. The people of this Joseon romp are in a quiet uproar, holding hands in secret, and asking for compatibility tests is hugely against the law.

However, not for the female lead, So Rang. After being thrown in prison for being an underground matchmaker, she pretends to be able to conjure up the spirits of those who passed away. The King keeps her by his side due to wanting to stay close to his deceased bride, but soon after -- love sparks between the two of them.

With hilarious AND serious side stories, and your typical second male lead falling head over heels for the female lead -- the comedic timing and filming are to be enjoyed. Think of it like the McDonald's of kdramas. It may not be particularly healthy to binge watch an entire 12+ hour show, but I guarantee it's filling, enjoyable, and you may only feel a little sick afterward. Lol

The actors are great -- I truly think that the head eunuch, the old man psychic, and the lead bad guy stole the show at points, but the chemistry between the king and So Rang was good. The sets are stunning and the rooms, WOW, are just beautiful. I loved the costuming, and it was the series perfect length. Not too long, and just long enough to get the story out without ruining it.

I enjoyed the whole show and definitely would suggest it to anyone looking for a fun, not accurate-at-all kind of historical drama. Enjoy it for the modern speech, the jokes, the romance, and the serious storyline that is easy to handle because it's obvious, and hilariously awkward moments. It has a happily ever after -- so enjoy to your heart's content.

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The Best BL Show I've Ever Seen

I was beyond thrilled watching this show. I wish that all other shows and movies had this kind of funding and quality of actors. I've been a fan of BL/GL stuff for a long time and it's very hard to find quality shows or movies that accurately portray the characters or express a storyline that I'm personally interested in.

The thing that I'm most fascinated with is not only the filming quality, the director's ability to angle specifics and film a certain way -- but also the fact that the actors' chemistry is so amazing.

Miles and Apo's chemistry is beautiful and astounding. Seeing them off-screen as well later on is adorable and I am a fan now thanks to the show.

The quality of the filming, the actors, and the chemistry of not just Kinn and Porsche but also Vegas with ANYONE he gets near, is a fire worth bearing. If you're looking for a quality BL/GL show -- this is going to be it for you.

I wish I hadn't started with this, as it raised my expectations of BL/GL dramas to extremely high, and now I'm disappointed in almost everything else I watch! Lol So be aware of the fact that watching this may raise your expectations that you didn't even know you had.

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Fight Club meets Lethal Weapon!

One corrupt cop with a conscience meets a lunatic anarchist who thinks he's a hero. Soo Yeol is focused on becoming the captain of his Anti-Corruption team. He's so close to the promotion that he can taste it. One case closure away, and he'll finally be living the life he's been dreaming of. If only a mysterious rebel with a cause wasn't messing with him and every single carefully laid plan he had. A hilarious path of redemption, this is a great twist on the crazy cop/good cop duo with a bad-ass female police officer along for the ride.

I'm just starting it and I love it. The duo has great chemistry already, and I'm going to devour every single episode and won't sleep until I do. It's hilarious and badass. The music is great, the storyline is fantastic and I'm totally hooked on it by the first episode. Here we go! Starting a new show and am excited about it. It's been a while since I was excited about a show. :) It genuinely has me thrilled right from the first episode. Will update this review as I actually get into it and finish it, but this is hilarious so far.

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I Loved It Until About 1/2 Way Through

I loved it until about episode ten-eleven. I was completely with it, loved the pacing, the sets, the storyline, the acting, and the costumes. And then I got about half-way and my brain just got completely derailed by the plot.

So here's a guy who spends about 4-5 hour long episodes coming to terms with the fact that he loves a man, and may not even be hetero, willing to endure that conclusion in a time that no one accepts that kind of thing and BAM!

"This is my secret!" I have breasts! Lmfao I'm sorry, but that just annoyed me so much because they made such a big deal of him coming to terms with everything, and then WHAM! I've got lady parts! Do you know how upsetting that would be? I mean, sure, bend the gender normative stereotypes -- but dang, that would be a REALLY uncomfortable turnaround for SO many people.

Also -- why doesn't she tell him that she's the court maiden he's been looking for RIGHT THEN? Like, BAM, I'm a woman, AND I'm Dam-yi! It's ONE sentence. Just Darth Vader it.

"No, _I_ am Dam-yi!"

Also, he recognized the Crown Prince AS A WOMAN the VERY next time he meets her/him -- and YET, for some reason just nixes that entire idea with the slightest nudge, even though he SAW her.

No? No. Okay, anywaaaay...

The bodyguard, who is the strong, silent type (and takes his job VERY seriously -- seriously, that scene where the four of them sit down for drinks together and he chases Ji-un around the danged table - HILARIOUS) -- is the only man in the entire kingdom, the entire palace, no, the entire danged SHOW with bangs/fringe in his hair or a memorable talisman on the sheath of his sword -- and yet, he wears a mask while trying to hold up the king at sword-point. All I kept thinking was, "Dude, I don't think your mask is going to do much." Albeit, let's face it, the bodyguard's lack of talking really made some points truly hilarious. Funny.

I truly loved the Crown Princess' eunuch. He was hilarious and adorable all in one. The cast made everything enjoyable even though I lost my mind arguing with my danged television at some points at the stupidity of some moments. It actually annoyed me so much I didn't think I could continue. However, I _am_ on episode 14 (only six episodes/hours left) -- so I'm trying to stick in there. Will update when I finally finish it, if I can.

P. S. I'm still giving it a seven, because even if I ended it right then (which really, you COULD do) -- hey, dethroned, left the palace, managed to connect with Ji-un again, and BAM - happily ever after, free to live her life with the man she loves, show OVER. Honestly, I could walk away right now and just pretend the rest didn't happen and be content.

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