Reviews

A Historical Drama with a Family Twist!

When a man’s fragile ego is bruised, he will go to any extent to humiliate the person responsible for his hurt!

The storyline of this historical is centered around King Tae Jong’s efforts to antagonize his loyal wife and her family. Set in the Goryeo period, the show focuses on Queen Won Gyeong rise to power as her husband assassinated the former Crown Prince and usurped the throne. While they were an ideal couple before that (or Prince Yi Bang Won was good at acting docile, we will never know), the King’s intentions change on ascending the throne. As it’s heart, it might seem like family drama, but the show revolves around the political tyranny and rebellion that occurred not once but twice in that era, before King Tae Jong rose to power. A husband and wife’s squabble might not seem that interesting; especially when all he does is take multiple wives to displease her. But the show is more focused on Queen Won Gyeong’s dominant personality, which the King is unable to accept.

Read the complete article here-

https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2025/01/07/the-queen-who-crowns-first-impressions/#more-1469

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saving you the trouble: not recommended for logical crime solving

IMHO the only reason to watch a crime drama is for the crime solving; otherwise, I could watch a romance or any other genre. The characterization and interpersonal relationships matter somewhat. Insect detective did not deliver on the crime solving and I'm ambivalent about the three main characters. There are plotholes in every case and even on the hidden mystery on their backgrounds up to episode 13. Whenever Jingtian brings out an insect to "conclusively" solve a case or drop a big clue, it's never conclusive or else it's something you could arrive at conventionally without the use of the insect. In crime 2 (i think) the fly's corpse couldn't even have gotten there at the time that he claimed it did.

Even the prop person or whoever sets up the scene couldn't be counted on to do it right. [Minor spoiler] You can see in episode 12 that the chain bolt/lock on the door is not installed right and there's no reason for the criminal to go through the extra step and thus manufacturing incriminating evidence of a "special" chain lock. [End spoiler] Please do not install your lock like these smart folks.

They also re-use a lot of flashback scenes and don't always add extended flashbacks so I end up watching I don't know how many times Jingtian's mom falling to the ground before finally something new was revealed in ep 13. I've decided to drop this because the entertainment value is lower that the frustration of the poor logic. If the above isn't a big detractor to you, you can watch this since the characters aren't unbearable (at lease up to ep 13). I actually really like a couple of the detectives. Take my rating about acting with a grain of salt since I have no opinions unless someone is truly truly bad or truly truly great at acting.

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A história vai te prender do início ao fim

“When the Phone Rings” é uma obra-prima que combina uma narrativa envolvente, atuações impecáveis e uma trilha sonora inesquecível. A história prende do início ao fim, com reviravoltas emocionantes e uma profundidade que surpreende a cada episódio. É impossível não se conectar com os personagens e seus dilemas.

A química entre o casal principal é, sem dúvida, um dos grandes destaques do drama. Cada cena compartilhada por eles exala intensidade e emoção, tornando impossível não torcer por sua felicidade. A relação deles é construída de forma tão orgânica que parece real, como se estivéssemos assistindo a uma história de amor acontecer bem diante de nossos olhos.

Outro ponto que merece ser exaltado é a OST. As músicas complementam perfeitamente as emoções das cenas, transportando o espectador para dentro da trama. Algumas canções ficam na mente por dias, trazendo à tona memórias de momentos marcantes da história.

Os atores entregaram performances excepcionais. Cada gesto, olhar e diálogo foi carregado de emoção e autenticidade. É notável como eles conseguiram dar vida a personagens tão complexos e cativantes. Eles não só atuaram, mas viveram seus papéis, fazendo com que cada detalhe parecesse natural e impactante.

“When the Phone Rings” é um K-drama que vai além de entreter: ele toca o coração e deixa uma marca duradoura. É impossível assistir sem se emocionar e se apaixonar por essa história extraordinária. Recomendo fortemente para quem busca um drama que combina romance, emoção e excelência em todos os aspectos.

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Nice concept but went downhill at the middle

Okay, babes, let’s get into Every You Every Me. When I tell you I went in expecting a hot mess but came out with… a lukewarm one? I mean, it had its moments, but also, WHAT was the pacing? Like, I was buckled in for a slow burn, and the series was out here speeding like it’s late for class. Then I found out each episode had a different story, and I was like, “Okay, werk, anthology queen!” But no. They just HAD to throw in double episodes that dragged harder than my mom at family reunions. Anyway, let’s talk, because I am both entertained and annoyed.

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Episode 1: Soulmates? Slaymates.

First episode dropped the whole “You’re my soulmate, we’re meant to be” spiel, and I was kinda living for it. Simple, clean, cute. Nothing groundbreaking, but hey, sometimes we just want BL comfort food, y’know? It was giving “Pinterest inspo but make it gay.” I was like, “Okay, first episode slaps. Maybe I’ll stan. Maybe this series is about to change my life. Maybe pigs will fly.”

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Episode 2: Boss Daddy Energy

Whew, the boss x secretary trope was TROPPING, y’all. The tension? Immaculate. I kept squinting at the screen like, “Is he the top? Wait, no, he’s gotta be the bottom. Or maybe switch energy? Girl, the suspense is KILLING ME.” But they kept it natural, no awkward slow-mo stares or cheesy zoom-ins. Like, for once, they’re acting like normal people with feelings. Oh, and the chemistry? Chefs kiss. I didn’t even cringe once, which is saying something.

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Episodes 3 & 4: Bring the Pain, Cowards.

Okay, now THIS had potential. Namping’s dying, right? Sad vibes. But they gave us NOTHING to work with. Like, what’s he dying of? Seasonal allergies? A tragic paper cut? Gimme DETAILS. And don’t even get me started on the lack of angst. I wanted messy hospital scenes, dramatic crying, maybe even someone yelling “You can’t die on me!” in the rain. Instead, we got, “Oh, he’s sick. Anyway…” I was screaming at my screen like, “HELLO? MAKE ME SOB, YOU COWARDS.”

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Episodes 5 & 6: Enemies to Lovers, But Make It Basic.

First of all, Shun is the top, and my brain short-circuited because I was SO sure he was the bottom. Like, when the sex scene hit, I literally paused and said out loud, “Noted. Got it. Moving on.” Anyway, it’s your classic enemies-to-lovers trope: they bicker, they bang, someone dies (again, seriously?), and then Shin stops making music because trauma, I guess. But then Blue inspires him to get back into it, and I’m sitting here like, “Okay, cute, but WHERE is the originality?” I was BEGGING for Blue to do something messy, like plagiarize Shin’s song or spill his coffee. Just give me SOMETHING to spice it up.

Oh, and the sex scene? Cute but not life-changing. It’s giving “PG-13 with a sprinkle of R.” Steamy, sure, but not “lemme rewind that real quick” steamy.

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Episodes 7 & 8: Why Are We Backtracking?

So now we’re watching Roi Inn and Phun, two actors who fell in love while filming the previous episodes. The breakup scene? Mature AF. Like, I was snapping my fingers and going, “YES, adults handling emotions like adults!” But then, outta nowhere, they’re back together because apparently they “can’t move on.” I was like, “Girl, you just had your big dramatic breakup moment, and now you’re crawling back? PICK A STRUGGLE.”

Also, why couldn’t they lean into the reincarnation vibes? Imagine them realizing they’ve been soulmates in every timeline, and their love is destined or cursed or something. Missed opportunity, TBH.

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The Acting? ATE. Now let’s talk about Top and Mick because these two carried the entire show on their BACKS. Top is out here serving duality like a pro—soft boy one minute, daddy the next. And Mick? Okay, at first, I thought his face looked constipated, but by Episode 5, I was ready to risk it all. Also, why does Mick look like Up from Lovely Writer? Is that intentional? Did they clone him? Either way, Mick’s hotter, don’t @ me.

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Final Thoughts: A Mixed Bag of Cute and Chaos.

So yeah, Every You Every Me started strong, but by the end, it was giving “meh, but make it gay.” The actors ATE, the director… did not. Would I rewatch? Absolutely not. Would I watch a behind-the-scenes documentary of Mick and Top flirting IRL? In a heartbeat.

Final score: 8/10 for the actors, 2/10 for the wasted potential, and 10/10 for the sheer amount of thirst tweets I wrote while watching this. Thank you, next.

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'I can stand him, not loving me; I can't stand him, loving her.' ~Lang Leav

This series is so good , our power couple is back , after " Moonlight Chicken " I was waiting for their comeback and finally they came with a great series .

Disclaimer - This is my own review according to my own feelings , this review may contain spoilers , Go On .

Story - This is an adaptation from a very popular show " Ossans Love " ( Japanese) . After the succession of the Japanese one , I had a high hope for this Thai One ( no 1 reason was EarthMixx ) and I am impressed a lot . The love triangle is not toxic but actually funny and cute , the way Mo ( Mix ) and Boss fought over Heng ( Earth ) is really so funny and cute . Earth is doing a completely different character from his previous shows ( Moonlight Chicken and A tale of Thousand Stars ) and he impressed me 100 % . Talking about Mixx , hands down , he is a great actor . He has some magic in his eyes , the way he expresses his emotions through his eyes, is really so natural and realistic . Mr Krit ( Boss ) is a professional actor , he nailed his role completely , the way he did everything so perfectly , is so good .

Cinematography and Visuals - I liked Mixx's fluffy hair so much , he was looking like a visual king , his coolness fits perfectly with his style . Cinematography was excellent .

My Opinion - I liked this drama a lot , after watching so many bad shows in 2024 , this is my healing pill in 2025 . So happy that my new year started with a great show , for me this shows is 9.5 /10 .

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A Tense Thriller That Keeps You HOOKED!

*When the Phone Rings* is one of those K-dramas that keeps you at the edge of your seat, with its pulse-pounding suspense and a story that digs deep into the fragility of trust and human connections. The premise itself is chilling—a seemingly happy arranged marriage slowly unravels after a terrifying phone call from a kidnapper, leading to a series of events that reveal painful truths about the characters. I was hooked from the very first episode, constantly wondering where it was all going.

What I really appreciated about the show was how it made me question not just the couple's relationship, but the very nature of guilt, secrets, and the things people hide behind closed doors. The chemistry between Yoo Yeon-seok and Chae Soo-bin felt real, and they both delivered some truly raw and emotional performances, especially when their characters were put under pressure. The writing does an excellent job of creating tension that doesn’t let up, and each twist felt like a blow to the gut.

*When the Phone Rings* was a thrilling ride, and I’d recommend it to anyone who loves a tense psychological drama. It's a reminder of how easily things can fall apart, and how sometimes, the hardest thing to face is the truth we’re too afraid to acknowledge. The journey was definitely worth it.

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It's amazing but...

I actually appreciate this series it's not that perfect but still give it a try to watch. Here's the thing, if you're not a fan of a series that you think the first episodes are boring then this is not for you yet if you're one of the curious mind people who likes to exercise your brain then give it a chance. There's a plot holes and confusing moments yet GIVE IT A CHANCE :)

As episode 22-24 approaching it's kinda off. We all don't know what happened to Dr. Ling also I did hope that the squad's bond shows often. The scrolling narration makes my reaction like this •-• like what do you mean by Lu Feng Ping got sentenced for 7 years? Anyways since he's doing a good job he released on parole. I think this series can give more to us, can explain more and execute more it is just a bit rush and long. Yet all in all I recommended this too.

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THE DRAMA"S OVERRATED

Don't get me wrong it hooked me from its first episodes because of its unique concept. But it also gives me a typical Wattpad-like storyline (but it was fine since I was expecting something different from this drama). However, the drama got a little too boring for me because a lot was going on, and it was hard to keep up with the characters and the drama, especially with the last episode, it just went downhill. It was a little disappointing because they got a great start and if the production just kept it up, then it would have justified the hype of this drama. Although, the cast did a great job portraying their characters well.

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THE CALL YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS

When the Phone Rings stands out as one of the best dramas of 2024-2025, delivering an entertaining and fun story that's elevated by captivating performances.

Each episode is ridiculously addictive, expertly ramping up the emotional stakes and keeping viewers hooked. The cast absolutely crushes it, bringing their characters to life with so much depth and complexity. Yoo Yeon-seok and Chae Soo-bin have insane chemistry, and the supporting cast - including the second leads and office crew - adds a whole extra layer of awesomeness to the story.

The chemistry between the leads is unmistakably magnetic, drawing you in and holding you captive with each tantalizing glance, tender touch, and whispered promise. Their romance is a wild ride of adorable moments and heartbreaking drama, with plenty of twists and turns. It's a super emotional and passionate story that'll keep you hooked.

In my opinion, WTPR is a beginner-friendly K-drama that's hard to miss. If romantic thrillers or clichés aren't your thing, this might not be the drama for you. However, if you're a fan of the genre, you'll love it just as much as I do.

Honestly, the scene that's got everyone talking is super minor. You'd barely even notice it if you weren't paying attention, and it doesn't change the story at all.

To be fair, the drama leans all the way in as a classic rom-dram, so viewers should've known what to expect. If you're open to an addictive, emotional ride, don't let negative nancies hold you back.

Honestly, I'm obsessed with this drama - it's a total 10/10 for me! I was here for the cheesy, Wattpad vibes, and it totally delivered. Plus, it was a major mood booster when I was feeling down. I loved it so much that I'm already planning to rewatch it from start to finish... and I'm already missing it, tbh!

When the Phone Rings is a must-see for the 2024-2025 season and you'd be missing out if you let criticisms stop you.

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sad & beautiful with amazing chemistry and top-notch cinematography

For an idol Kamimura Kenshin had an amazing debut in his main role. Both leads had an amazing chemistry, subtle facial expressions or not so subtle facial expressions which cought me in episode 1. The sensiblity all their inime scenes were filmed was stunning. The story was captivating and it was excruciating to wait for the next episode. Oh my god did I wish this series had been released with all episodes at once.

The characters were detailed and their personalities completly different. Motojima Junsei as Jin also showed great skill, the introvert with only two friends, overthinking anything and struggeling to come out of his shell.Harukia has "friends" but is not close to anyone, hides his struggles and is abused at home. He fears to become like his father and so he always decides not to fight back, takes blame for things he never did and is generally an outcast by most people. Jin does not understand Haruki, he knows of the abuse, but subconsciously he knows Haruki is not a bad guy. And then Haruki is bold kissing Jin a lot, never by force, but denies Jin the word for his feelings which does confuse Jin a lot. You feel the tension and their struggles with each other. And when you think all is well, it is not. Of course this a BL so we get a happy end.

There are some things I did not like. Jin was not open with his friends It was never shown that he told them about his love but it was implied, otherwise why did he invite his friends for the movie made by Haruki? His film is about two boys who seperate to meet again when adults btw. The second one is that the finale felt underwhelming. While the beginning was good the middle and end was lukewarm including the kissing scenes. I had tears in my eyes through all episodes from 1-9 but only in the beginning of episode 10. That's the only reasons why it was not perfect for me. Update: The "special" epsiode (sometimes labeled episode 11) does not solve the issue that Jin keeps in the closet with his friends even when Haruki said he had a crush on Jin but circumvent the reason.So either his friends are stupid and don't get the drift or it's a huge plothole.

The cinematography and direction was on point. This is a series you should binch-watch, the 10 episodes at around 22 minutes playtime will be gone faster than you can imagine and are a delight to watch. While it seems to be going slow everything was made with a tought behind it. Again a great japanese BL which makes thai shows looking very lame and underwhelming (with few exceptions). Overall this is a must see and was one of the best in 2024.

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Great Drama to Start 2025

This drama hook me since eps. 1 and it has fast pace. Zhang Binbin shows us how powerfull his character in the drama. There is no lazzy fighting scene.
The chemistry between ML, FL & SML are so good. The comedy is enough in the first 10 eps. I'm ready to get more angst story in next episode and Youku you better give us happy ending.
I saw Mu Xuan Ling as Pian Ran in the first episode, especialy when she is in red. But Pianran role disappear in eps 5. All i see in Mu Xuan Ling.
Nan Xu Yue reminds of Runyu from the Ashes of Love. A villain who is a soft boy.

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