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Reviews
Qie shi tian xia (2022)
Definitely one of my favorites
A very well made and scripted historical series with martial arts, palace intrigues, war planning and battle strategies and an uncomplicated enduring deep romance. There's comedy and there's sadness. The acting is good and you will share the joys and despair as you move along a fast paced series. There are quite a number of characters vital to the series in addition to our well matched leading couple and the series give each of them enough time for character role development and you find you are interested in their progress in the series. The best thing about the romance is that the couple are open with each other, no tiring and obsessive third party interventions. They support each other both emotionally and in the battlefield. I didn't give a 10 because of the bittersweet ending which surprised me. I guess it does make the plot more real.
Xu Yan (2022)
Highly recommend mini series
I was pleasantly surprised by the ingenuity of this short series. It is indeed underrated maybe because the cast is pretty unknown (at least to me). In a nutshell, FL is trapped by sorcery in a face swap and has to find a way to escape from the identity change and in the midst of this, she gets married to someone she loves. This series though low budget does not appear to be low budget because the script is very well written. There's surprising twists and turns that are high quality and not one would expect. There's surprising twists acting is good too and romance is deep and sweet. No big drama which is what I like. Highly recommend.
Wo xi huan ni (2020)
Just what a romcom should be!
This is a perfect score for a romantic comedy. It is highly entertaining, fast paced, never a dull moment, hilarious especially with Zhao Lusi as leading lady . She is bubbly, talented and a joy to watch. The romance is good and believable despite the age gap between the two leads. In fact, the age gap is deliberate as it was discussed in the series itself. These two leads have strong chemistry and are sweet and fun to watch together. The supporting cast is interesting to watch too. Love the creativity of cooking and food included in the series. This series scores on entertainment level and provides lots of laughter, romance and is everything a true romcom should be.
Xing han can lan (2022)
Excellent but overly prolonged
This historical series has an excellent plot, great cast and well executed. Both female and male leads are top notch and pair well together. Their characters are both flawed as they have both undergone hardships throughout their lives. Thus when both fall in love, they go emotionally deep. FL has trust issues and ML has a revenge agenda which he tries to keep from FL in case she and her family gets implicated in his plans. I read a lot of negative comments about FL holding long grudges against ML when he betrayed her trust (even though he was protecting her) and I nearly decided not to finish the series but thankfully I completed the series and having watched it, I understand why FL acted the way she did. There are many characters in the series who I like which includes the funny emperor and his two wives, FL's grandmother is funny too though sometimes annoying, Ml's 2 close soldiers are interesting characters too. I thought too much emphasis were given to the bullying from the annoying princesses - there were just too many repetitive incidents. Many scenes especially those nearing the end of the series were rather slow. Would have been perfect if they had finished the series with less episodes. All in all, worth watching especially for the excellent performances from FL and ML.
Deha (2024)
Amazing first 2 episodes but confusing revenge tale follows
Deha started with a captivating, electrifying and emotional start especially in the first 2 episodes. The talented cast was introduced with good pace, music exhilarating and series had some great twists and turns. Then from episode 3 onwards, the revenge plot gets slightly muddled, more people introduced to the series, direction of the series gets fumbled, promising casts not fully utilized. Focus on characters gets diversified and I was getting agitated and fast forwarding a fair bit so much so that continuing watching the series was becoming an ordeal despite my interest in both ML and Fl. I think I'll stop watching for awhile and come back to this series if I hear better news from the reviews because currently it's not an enjoyable watch for me.
Zai Bao Xue Shi Fen (2024)
Highly recommend
This a an emotionally deep and sweet romance series for all ages. It is a slow burner especially in the first 10 episodes and you should savor it by taking your time to let the story develop and feel the depth, difficulties, commitments, resilience both male and female leads experience which sets the foundation of their undying support for each other. There's also lots of bromance and sisterhood as the series also focuses on a the competitive sports world of nine-balls, snooker and billiards which I know nothing about. Part of the series is filmed in Finland and the rest in China. Once our Ml returns to China, the series picks up at an accelerated rate as he returns as a successful comeback in his profession. ML sets such a high bar boyfriend material in this series. The chemistry between both leads are amazing and all casts with their side plots are entertaining too. Highly recommend to watch and I will re-watch this again.
Bir Gece Masali (2024)
Not well executed
I'm writing this review after deciding I can't continue the series after episode 5. I would have stopped earlier but stayed on because I'm a fan of Burak Deniz. The things I like about the series is Burak's professional acting and the beautiful landscape. I like Su Burcu Coskun when she acted in Kardeslerim but I am just not getting her character in this series. Maybe it's because there no chemistry at all between her and Burak (I was wondering whether it's the age gap factor). Her acting is very earnest here. There are quite a number of side characters here as members of 3 families are introduced and also the bad guys. The thing is none of the side characters except for Mahir's police friend and Canfessa's girlfriend seem likeable and interesting. The plot is a mixture of revenge, honor marriage customs, family drama and betrayals. I realized that I could only finish episode 5 by fast forwarding a lot of- even romantic scenes between the ML and FL. It's just not worth my time anymore.
Kötü Kan (2024)
It's bad
Really tried to complete the first episode but I could not. It is bad. There is no character I like in this series. It is hard to watch or find enjoyment let alone entertainment if there is no character you want to cheer for or support. There is a plot - not an amazing one but a plot. That does not save the series. I guess one can consider it as a dark series. Since I couldn't continue the series, I'm not sure whether better characters will be introduced. As it couldn't captivate my interest with a first episode, I usually do not think this worth spending more time on it. I also heard that the ratings were not good and I expect the series to be a mini series.
Xi Hua Zhi (2024)
A definite 10 rating
This historical Chinese drama has everything well-balanced and stays clear of annoying devious and jealous third parties and petty squabbles. It's very inspirational. 3 generations of males in a family were exiled to the cold north for hard labour by the emperor and left behind 3 generations of their women and children to fend for themselves in the imperial city. There are very sad moments and very joyful moments too. The struggles these ladies go through in ancient China will enrage you and our strong and fearless female lead will inspire you. The series is fast paced and doesn't have a dull moment with a good balance of family drama, romance, palace intrigues and fighting scenes. The opening and closing songs are very catchy and good too. Highly recommend to watch.
Jie hun ma? Hao de! (2023)
Entertaining mini romcom
This is a fast paced funny romance comedy. It's a mini series and it's fun to watch and a great relief compared to those long drawn drama. It has everything in a typical romance series - the initial dislike between the main couple which turns into love, the jealous wannabe girlfriend, the jealous wannabe boyfriend, intrigue and mystery about the female lead's past and more. But the good thing is everything gets resolved and revealed and straightened in quick speed since it's a mini series. Our 2 main leads are cute, sweet and funny and has good chemistry between them. Lots of laughs, a little bit of sadness and lots of love.
San sheng san shi shi li tao hua (2017)
Excellent mythical/fantasy series
Highly recommend to watch this series. It's well written with good imagination and a captivating storyline with a deep and eternal love that survives through years amidst war and fighting between the evil and the good in the world of the immortals. Both female and male leads are top class in their acting and the entire cast is just superb. I think the best approach to viewing this series is to see it in 3 stages. From episode 1 to 10 is the building foundation stage which one may find confusing but it's to give you the understanding of the different clans, rules in deity world and introduction to the many characters. The second stage from episodes 11 to maybe around 29 is focuses on a deep romance that brings fulfillment and yet with heart wrenching sadness. The last stage involves the remaining episodes where we journey through ups and downs and finally a happy ending. There's one thing I didn't like about this series is that too much time was given to the devious schemes of jealous women. When you think they finally get punished or die, you get so disappointed because they escape and cause troubles again. Could have cut off certain evil plotting and finish the series earlier and make it more enjoyable. Otherwise, a beautiful series indeed.
Jun Jiu Ling (2021)
Smart heroine against all odds
As with many comments by others, this is an underrated series. I stumbled into it as I am into smart badass heroines after watching The Double and this series delivers satisfyingly. I think it is produced not with a high budget as it lacks the grandeur in terms of costumes and cinematography and fighting scenes. But it has good conversations, comedy and a great plot. It is not as compelling as many other series but it is interesting as you follow our heroine's journey to revenge. She has 4 men in love with her (1 of whom is a villain). There's much contention over the web as who makes a better ML amongst the other 3 good guys. I do think that the chosen Ml is the most suitable - he may appear arrogant and flawed but he is loyal, brave, funny and fights well. He is always there to protect Fl and they have good chemistry. The series is a bit long in my view - maybe could shorten by 5 or 8 episodes.
San fen ye (2023)
Pleasant easy-watch romcom
This is a nice modern romcom with good chemistry between Fl and ML. The FL is cute and a strong character. She's lively, bubbly and interesting. The male lead initially is quiet and reserved but eventually opens up. They make good match. Together with their friends and relatives, there's lots of comedy built in. The first 20 episodes or more feels more interesting to me and the last dozen of episodes deals with heavier items including how they handle long distance relationships, career commitments and how they impact on their lives, some jealousy issues but are quickly resolved and work issues. Best thing is there's no toxic third parties causing long misunderstandings as one often sees in many series. A recommended watch.
Lang ya bang (2015)
Easily the best series I've watched
This is indeed a masterpiece and I really admire the writer, director, entire cast for a splendid emotional and intense execution, the costumes, beautiful cinematography and moving music and songs. It's definitely a series I will rewatch. It's a historical series dealing with many issues - political, loyalty, betrayal, sacrifice, seeking justice, corruption of power from emperor to grassroots, the intense drive to correct wrongdoings and get a power crazy emperor to admit his wrongs. The strategic plotting in this series must be admired. Not to mention the fighting scenes - very well executed. For anyone deciding to watch this series, be warned that you will be emotionally invested in it. Whilst there's little romance, the little that's shown is also very emotional and indepth. There's lots of bromance to make up for everything. There are many characters in this series and all of them are important in their respective roles and portrayed them flawlessly. Some may find this series slow but only In the sense that there's lots of formalities like kneeling and bowing before the royalty and the consorts in the palace do move slowly. But this is all bearable as the series is intelligently scripted. I use these slower movements in the series to digest the plot more fully. As for the ending, it's bittersweet and a perfect ending. Our male lead and his companions achieved what they set out to achieve. I will definitely re-watch this series again.
Ning an ru meng (2023)
Many things to like about this series
I like that this series is daringly different from many especially with the character of the male lead who has a dark side and can be viewed as a villain at times and a courageous hero too. The. Female lead is not your damsel in distress and she is reincarnated too be herself after she killed hersel. So she is given a chance to right the many wrongs and evil deeds she committed in her first life. The story is confusing at many instances because her past life is show as flashbacks in her present life. However, if you read up a bit or persevere through the confusion, the story is very interesting. The various characters and sub-plots in the series are all interesting too. Overall, I like the brand new approach of the characters of FL and ML as not being entirely innocent people but rather they are realistic, courageous and have no qualms to execute swift judgment on the bad people.
Iliski Durumu: Karisik (2015)
Started well but became a drag of repetitive events
This series was very promising at the start - very funny, cheesy and feel good. In many instances, I laughed right out. The female lead character is rather naive but she is funny and at times be annoying because of her indecisions and procrastinations. You will find yourself rooting for the second male lead to pair with her instead of the male lead who doesn't seem to possess the better character qualities and is not likable at all. The comedy becomes long drawn, repetitive and instead of being entertaining, the episodes soon began to be boring. I was fast forwarding a lot and then eventually I just jumped to the final to see the ending. In a nutshell, try watching to have a good laugh and stop when it gets boring for you. You won't lose much in between if you jump to the final episode once it gets too repetitive and boring.
Duo guan (2020)
Very well executed
There's everything to like and be inspired by this movie. It's one of those underdog sports movies that is truly inspiring and encouraging. Lots of joy and then tears and hard gritty commitment and a long and winding journey to a spectacular and unexpected big win. The recreated volleyball matches are really very well done. The one thing that I found rather lacking is the huge time jump of Lang Ping from a player to a coach for the US team. There's no mention of how she ended up in this role and also not much details to show her big decision to switch to coaching the China team. Lang Ping played by Gong Li has no smiles and I find she did not convey much human emotions through her stony face but she did delivered well in the match between China and Brazil showing her skills and calculation as she patiently encouraged her team. All in all, a truly remarkable movie.
Qu you feng de di fang (2023)
Watching this makes me feel warm and cosy
This is truly a beautifully well made series. Only the first episode is sad and the rest of the episodes will make you feel good about life and people. Initially I couldn't understand the title "Meet Yourself" and as I watch the episodes, I realise that it takes us through a journey of finding ourselves as we go through life with meeting various interesting and different people and in a place that is away from our comfort zone. The songs are very good and I managed to find an album on the songs online. All the characters in the series are interesting and they cover the grannies, locals, the children, tourists and of course our talented FL and ML. The conversations are meaningful and well-scripted. There's no bad people, evil in-laws, jealous third parties or scheming enemies - the series is just wholesome living and I always feel uplifted after watching each episode. Highly recommend to watch!
Mo yu yun jian (2024)
Definitely recommended watch
I decided to finish the series before giving my review. Firstly the plot (which is based on the novel with a number of changes) is very captivating. It's fast-paced, hauntingly sad at times, has some humorous moments and what I loved most is that the female lead is strong, intelligent and resilient - not your damsel in distress who needs rescuing constantly. All the characters in the series are interesting too and you may even sympathize with the villains when it is revealed what they have been through in their lives. I think there's a big gap in age between the female lead and male lead - something like the FL is more than 10 years older than the ML. Whilst the female lead looks youthful but the gap shows when they are together in romantic scenes. However, the interesting plot, cinematography and pace of the series will keep you glued to the series. I didn't like the last episode too much as it felt a bit rushed. The songs and music in this series are really good. There are many scenes in this series I will no doubt want to re-watch as they are beautifully choreographed. A recommended watch!
A Leading Man (2013)
Good plot/subject but missed opportunity
The plot and subject matter of this movie is good.and interesting but really targets a specific part of audience. Thus I guess not many will watch this movie. The acting is good and.the examples of frustrating stereotyping of Asian actors seem well depicted. The scriptwriters has written such that our male lead sometimes does not really help himself to improve his situation with his rudeness and lack of tact. So, the ending was quite predictable and disappointing. The movie as it comes to an end makes me conclude I should have stopped watching it halfway through when I knew the ending would be that predictable. It's not a mood-lifting movie though it has a few funny moments.
Di xian (2022)
Interesting cases for each episode
I like this series a lot. The first two episodes need a lot of focus as I am unfamiliar with the courts and law scenarios in China. In addition, my mandarin listening skills is not up to standard and therefore i have to read the subtitles quickly as there's a lot of conversations to follow. But after the first few episodes, I found I can catch up pretty well. I like the cases not are handled either by the courts or handled by mediation. The cases are very believable and ranges from murder to matters that we come accross in our lives like bullying in schools, social media abuse, employees subjected to overworking. The cast is really good and I especially think Jin Dong portrayed his role very well. In addition to dealing with cases, the also see the personal lives of our cast and how their work affects them.
Sthlm Rekviem (2018)
Not that super
It is a watchable series but one that needs patiebce.and some determination because the filming is pretty dull with grey tones throughout the episodes. The vibe is pretty depressing and negative. I didn't find any characters I like or admire. Even the female lead is not what I will call a likable person. Each investigation is quite interesting and the murders are cruel. The investigation is at a good pace with some deviation into the developments of the private lives of the cast. I wish they could just cheer up the filming a bit to make it more easily watchable and not too overly dreary. I nearly dozed off when I watched one episode during a lazy afternoon at home.
Cinderella in the Caribbean (2023)
Watchable predictable Cinderella theme movie
This is an easy watch with a nice leading lady. It follows the Cinderella theme with a few twists and no fairy godmother. Whilst there'are a lot of clinches and cheesy moments, it is still an enjoyable watch. I guess the sea and holiday setting make it easy going. The romance between "Cinderella" and her mate appeared to be rather sudden. I thought they make compatible close friends instead of a young romantic couple. The chemistry was lacking between them. In any case the movie seems best targeted for family audience. It fits well for a movie to be watched during family vacations or lazy days at home.
Shang Yang Fu (2021)
Thoroughly epic watch!
I am very impressed by this series - it scores highly on every aspect especially acting skills. Zhang Zi Yi and Zhou Ziwei are extremely well matched and their performances are very compelling. There's little room for error in their acting and it could be because they are seasoned in their acting. Zhou Ziwei is really perfectly casted as Xiao Qi and is an impressive actor. The plot of the series is thrilling, fast moving, lots of palace intrigues and a it's surprising twists. The fighting scenes are incredible. The costumes especially those worn by Zhang Zi Yi are incredibly beautiful and like pieces of art. The entire cast acted well and this series is really memorable. My only complain is that there should be more scenes of the female and male leads together as their chemistry is just really a different level - the few number of scenes of them together is why I didn't give a 10 and gave a 9 instead - the ending felt hurried and I think they should have given more screen time to our female and male leads. They have such good chemistry and look really cute together giving some light hearted moments to a rather heavy drama full of palace intrigues and revenge. Love this series.
Chang'an shi er shi chen (2019)
This is a spectacular watch
This is high quality and scores in many aspects including cinematography, acting, intrigue, attention to details, costume, execution, lighting and believable fight scenes. In a nutshell, it tells of a terrorist attack on the city of Chang'an on the day of the Lantern Festival and follows through our hero's efforts to investigate and prevent the attack on the city. There's many characters in the entire series and I definitely got lost and confused many times. Much time and effort is given to the development of each character. There's no shortcuts in this series and if you don't follow through it, you will want to rewind and catch up again to continue with the story. The series is interesting, fast paced and beautifully made, so you will not want to give up at any point. It also builds up and you just want to solve the mystery.