ChFilm to DEFINITELY Watch: This Is Not What I Expected (2017)

This Is Not What I Expected (2017)

Viewing Platform: Netflix

 

Talented but young and with no credentials to her name, Gu Sheng Nan is a hotel chef, secretly dating the hotel manager. He unceremoniously dumps her, but begs for her help in pleasing the mysterious guest in room 1123, after he turns down dish after dish, even from Michelin rated chefs. The hotel manager pieces together from news reports that their mysterious guest is famous cutthroat businessman Lu Jin. If the hotel manager can convince Lu Jin, then their place will be bought out and turned into a true international, high-class, highly rated hotel, so he calls upon Gu Sheng Nan's talents. Lu Jin is intrigued by the young chef's dishes, and he spends an entire day challenging her knowledge and creativity, instead of moving on to acquire another hotel chain, as is his job. What happens when Lu Jin realizes his mystery chef is none other than the girl he found mistakenly scratching up his car in the parking lot the other day? Will Gu Sheng Nan be able to keep her job at the hotel?

*This is one of the BEST rom-coms I've seen in AGES! It was so cute and funny, with an interesting musical score and gorgeous lighting in many of the scenes, and Takeshi Kaneshiro (Lu Jin) steals the show with his fastidious and stern yet likable nature. (He even uses one of my FAVORITE acting techniques near the end, but I won't spoil it!) My only complaint is how they portrayed the scene between the two (spoiler alert) personal chefs: it was a play on a man sleeping with two women, which could be funny, but it took away some of the humor because of the hurt and betrayal that goes on in those situations in real life. Fortunately that scene doesn't last very long, and overall it's a good foil to add some tension to the will-they-won't-they aspect of the story. I will DEFINITELY watch this again!*

KDrama to Watch: My Horrible Boss (2016)

My Horrible Boss (2016)

Grade: B-

16 Episodes

Viewing Platform: Netflix, Dramafever

Simpering, cowardly and timid Nam Jung-gi has a son, father and brother to help care for, but he loses his job after blowing a marketing presentation to the large Gold Chemicals that was supposed to be a “sure thing.” Gold Chemical's new team leader Ok Da-jung is in charge of finalizing Jung-gi's proposal, but she turns Lovely Cosmetic down after Jung-gi inadvertently spoils the lotion sample and sexually harasses her, all because the inconsiderate new neighbor's moving crew blocked his apartment door with moving boxes. What happens when the ill-tempered Da-jung decides to quit and join Lovely Cosmetic instead? Will Jung-gi be able to provide for his family? And how will Da-jung's three ex-husbands influence life at the burgeoning cosmetics company?

*I've only seen Yoon Sang-hyun as a confident male lead and slightly insecure but still full of himself supporting character (“My Fair Lady” as the butler; “Secret Garden” as the Hallyu star cousin). While many of his situations are cringe-worthy awkward in the beginning of this drama, much like the humor in American film “Meet the Parents” - which I can't stand - I still wanted to see him play this totally opposite type of character. It was intriguing to see what happened to the character developmentally. The music is fun and well done, but there is very little in the romance department, as the drama focuses on the business side of the employees' lives and relationships. I probably won't watch this again since it lacks romantic tension, but the musical score is good, and there is good character development, so it's worth at least one viewing.*

Web Kdrama to Miss: My Runway (2016)

Web drama

My Runway (2016)

Grade: C+

6 Episodes, 20 minutes each

Viewing Platform: Netflix

High school student Han Seo-yun wants nothing more in life than to be a top runway model. Unfortunately, she has a major obstacle: her short stature. At a local tryout, she meets top male model Na Jin-wook, and the egotistical guest judge refuses to let her through the preliminaries. Later that night at the karaoke, Seo-yun and her friend console themselves with Jin-wook and his crew in a nearby room. What happens when lightning strikes as Seo-yun kisses the screen displaying her favorite male model?

*I like the mystical body-swap plot, and the actors manage to portray each others' characters well, but I didn't like the whole backdrop. The entire model scene is the epitome of vanity and selfish pursuits, so while the characters do show some development, it is limited because it feels like they only love each other as far as the other person happens to satisfy them. This setting also lends itself to some sleazier aspects of life. Other than that, it's a somewhat fun, short drama, but not my favorite.*

KDrama to Miss: My Shy Boss (2017)

My Shy Boss (2017)

Grade: C-

16 Episodes

Viewing Platform: Dramafever

Small time, minor role stage actress Chae Ro-woon quits acting in order to work at a PR firm – the same firm at which her late older sister had worked. The CEO, Eun Hwan-ki, is distant and cold, with his own employees fearful in his presence and not even sure what he looks like. Ro-woon gathers quite a lot of “telling” information about the reclusive CEO once she begins working, all in her quest to find revenge for her sister's suicide. But what happens when Ro-woon realizes that Hwan-ki is simply shy and misunderstood, not a snob or cruel, and unlikely to be the cause of her sister's death? Will the co-CEO Kang Woo-il be as charming as he appears when Ro-woon puts him under scrutiny as well? And what does Hwan-ki's sister have to do with the secretary's suicide?

*I had a difficult time enjoying this drama, as the entire plot revolves around a young woman's suicide. It's a complex issue, and while the drama does have its lighter moments, like all good kdramas have, it felt like the writers were not treating the topic with enough solemnity. The soundtrack and cinematography are all high-quality, but it wasn't enough to make me like this show: the characters are incredibly messed up. One of them had been cutting herself in secret – another serious mental health issue – and she slits her wrist in front of a girl when she thinks that girl is stealing her man. Plus there is infidelity, which nobody bats an eye at, and some premarital activity. It just felt too much like an American TV show, and I watch kdramas to get away from all of that. This drama also touches on transgenderism, referring to it as a person “wanting a fresh start” – another example of the writers misunderstanding mental illness (although most people don't see it as a mental illness to begin with, so for some viewers, that wouldn't be a reason to skip this drama). But for all of those reasons, I won't watch this again.*

InFilm to Miss: Chocolate (2016)

Chocolate (2016)  

Platform: Netflix

Police officer Rana is working an undercover operation when he receives a phone call from his demanding fiancee Ria. He is distracted and takes off the flashy ring she had given him, just as it's time to move in on the target, and a thief takes the ring. Raju, the thief, is chased all across town, as Rana is determined to recover that special ring. Raju ends up hiding it inside a box in a warehouse, thinking he can come back later to collect his prize, but much to his dismay, Raju had put the 50 lakh ring (worth about $75,000 US dollars) inside a box of chocolate-flavored condoms! So with the authorities breathing down his neck, Raju follows the box around as it is delivered and keeps changing hands. Will the cop track down the thief before he has to meet with his fiancee? What happens when Raju realizes who the ring really belongs to?

*This is a campy, raunchy film – sleazy even by American standards (but that becomes apparent as soon as the viewer realizes the ring is hidden in a box of condoms...). There are so many plot holes as well – what cop worth his salt answers a phone call in the middle of a sting? And it wasn't believable that the thief would be shy or discreet in any manner about stealing the condom box once it was delivered, especially with a prize worth that much. The torture room at the POLICE STATION was also very disturbing. The film is Bengali; perhaps that explains the different standards. I definitely won't watch this again, and I strongly urge others to avoid this film.*

KDrama to Maybe Watch: Let's Eat (2014)

Let's Eat (2014)
Grade: B-
16 Episodes
Platform: Netflix

Lee Soo-kyung is a divorced office worker living alone in a small apartment with her cute pet Pomeranian. She's not interested in a new relationship ever since her painful divorce, but Soo-kyung loves eating out at delicious restaurants and can't bear to eat alone - a true dilemma for a foodie such as herself. One day a younger, cheerful girl moves into the vacant studio apartment next to Soo-kyung (the previous tenant had choked to death - all because she lived alone) and draws Soo-kyung back out into life. Yoon Jin-yi and their other neighbor - Goo Dae-young, the fast-talking, charming insurance salesman - form a "food club" so none of them will have to eat alone anymore. What happens when a dangerous series of random assaults on women starts up in their neighborhood? Is this sudden interest from her neighbors connected in any way? Why does her boss treat her so poorly? And how will Soo-kyung react when she discovers the true identity of her favorite food blogger?

*I loved seeing all the different kinds of dishes that are available in Korean cuisine. I thought I already knew the primary meals that Koreans typically enjoy, but there is a much larger variety than that. If people smacking their food while they eat bothers you, then do not watch this show, as at least twice per episode, they have a food-eating sequence lasting several minutes. There was a slight element of mystery thrown in to spice up the drama, but it came across as so dark that it threw the overall tone of the show out of balance. It also took several episodes before the story finally drew me in at all (I only finally did because of the cute dog). I don't know if I'd watch this again, but it was okay for one view.*

KDrama to Watch: Goblin: The Great and Lonely God (2016)

Goblin: The Great and Lonely God (2016)

a.k.a. Guardian: The Lonely and Great God

Grade: B+

16 Episodes, 70 minutes each

Viewing Platform: Dramafever

Ji Eun-tak has been able to see ghosts for as long as she can remember. It is why on her ninth birthday she is able to say goodbye to her mother, why she can see a Grim Reaper, and how she hears the whispers from ghosts that she is the Goblin's Bride. She then lives a difficult life with an abusive aunt and cousins, yet she manages to stay upbeat and does well in school. One day the high school senior runs into a mysterious, slightly annoyed gentleman, unaware that she herself summoned him. This man, or rather, this demigod has spent nearly an entire millennium wandering the earth, seeking the one person who can help him rest in peace. Why is this immortal so miserable, when he has all the money and time the world has to offer? What sin did he commit that made the gods punish him this way? And is Eun-tak the answer he's been seeking?

*This drama is sad and romantic, yet lovely. Typically I do not enjoy shows like this, but it is a top-notch production with a well-written score and an intriguing supernatural element. There is even some lighthearted humor sprinkled about. I did not love the inordinate amount of product placement, though. I also didn't love the historical flashbacks as I dislike the historical dramas in general, and that did slow the pace quite a bit towards the middle of the show. The ending was somewhat lacking, as it leaves the viewer with some important, unanswered questions about the workings of this fictional world. How is it that ** spoiler alert ** Kim Shin comes back and retains his powers after the sword is removed? The script indicated that it was the only thing keeping him alive, but now that he has returned sans sword – his only means of dying – does that mean he really is doomed to walk the earth for all time? Aside from that, if I feel the need for a good cry, I'll watch this again.*

KWeb Drama to Watch: Spark (2016)

Spark (2016)

Grade: B

12 Episodes, 14 minutes each
Viewing Platform: Netflix

Son Ha-neul finds a part-time job working on the crew for Dexter, a hot male singing group. The leader of the group, Yoon Ga-ohn, hears a suspicious noise while on break and investigates. Instead he finds Ha-neul, who was relieving herself by some trees and making wishes on stars (it was a bathroom emergency, but still a gorgeous night). Ga-ohn starts to accuse Ha-neul of being paparazzi, but then a bright light envelops them both and they fall to the ground. What happens when Ga-ohn awakens the next day, only to find he can't touch anything metal or electronic, because sparks shoot off him? Will he be able to write his song in time for the concert? How will Ha-neul react when she finds out she is the only one who can neutralize the arrogant Ga-ohn's electricity?

*I'd have given this a higher grade but there is NO KISSING. Other than that, it's a cute story line, with a touch of supernatural and some fun music. It's also short, making it easy to finish in one sitting. I'll probably watch this again.*

InFilm to Watch: Dear Zindagi (2016)

Dear Zindagi (2016)

Viewing Platform: Netflix

Kaira is a young, single working girl, busy trying to make a name for herself in cinematography. She has fun with her friends but seems unable to keep a man in her life – either from poor communication of her own feelings or from pushing them away. After the latest relationship failure, Kaira is kicked out of her apartment through no fault of her own besides being single and has to move back home to Goa. She treats her parents very rudely and is evidently unhappy with her life, but her biggest immediate problem is she can't seem to get a good night's sleep. When she accidentally overhears a mental health lecture at the local hotel while filming a small potatoes commercial for a family friend, Kaira decides to seek therapy for her insomnia. The talented, slightly unconventional psychologist Dr. Khan starts meeting with Kaira, and her past is revealed. How does Kaira's relationship with her parents now interfere with her love life? Will Dr. Khan be able to help Kaira be free from her fears and sorrows? And what will others in her life think about her therapy?

*Kaira is obnoxious in the beginning of the movie, but as the viewer sees more into her life and hears her story, it's easier to understand that all of the self-centered behavior and anger towards her parents were symptoms of her emotional pain. I also saw the film as an attempt to normalize therapy in a culture that still talks of counseling and meeting mental health needs as a “hush-hush” affair – an effort to give a glimpse into what actually goes on in a therapy session. I'm glad that they handled the affection Kaira develops for her therapist in a realistic manner, instead of having them run off together. Shah Rukh Khan did an excellent job in that role. Overall, it isn't the typical type of movie I watch, but it was pretty good, and I'd probably watch it again. Oh, and “zindagi” means “life” so she's saying “dear life” in the end, reflecting on everything she's learned.*

KWeb Drama to Watch: Momo Salon (2014)

Momo Salon (2014) Web Drama

Grade: B

6 Episodes, 9 minutes each
Viewing Platform: Netflix

Aspiring hair stylist Hye Ni has just opened her own salon in a sleepy little neighborhood. It takes time to establish a new business, eager as she is to make it on her own. She also wants to make a difference in the lives of those who can benefit from her services. How long before Hye Ni finds success? And what happens as she influences the lives of those who come to visit her shop?

* This was a cute little web drama. Simple and sweet, with just a touch of romance; it's so short I'll probably watch it again.*

KDrama to Miss: Color of Women (2012)

Color of Women (2012)

Grade: C-

20 Episodes
Viewing Platform: Netflix

Byun So-ra loses her job as a professor after attempting to rat out a higher ranking professor who is embezzling school funds, despite having all the evidence to prove his guilt. She then finds a job at a cosmetics company – the same one at which her friend Kang Chan-jin from college is employed. It doesn't seem like a good fit initially, since So-ra doesn't care about appearances and judges those who do, but with her background in marketing and her chemical know-how, she finds a job with the company. A few days later, she runs into her senior from college, Yoon Jun-su, only to find out that he is the cosmetic company's owner's son. So-ra had been unable to date anyone since he dumped her ten years ago. What happens when Jun-su finally explains the misunderstanding that prematurely ended their relationship a decade ago? How will Jun-su's relationship with So-ra's longtime friend Chan-jin influence So-ra? And what happens when an ambitious manager attempts to take the cosmetics company for herself with secrets and conspiracies?

*Despite my enticing description, this was one BORING drama! A lot of elements from successful kdramas were there, but it just wasn't written well. The characters were not engaging, there were lots of awkward pauses and weird camera actions, and it's a lot of sitting and talking. It has 20 episodes, which is typically a sign that a drama is doing well, but I had a hard time making myself watch it. It was definitely a lower-quality production. There was also this weird shop owner and son that hinted at having some sort of mystic powers, and they randomly showed up to comment on the characters' goings-on but were ultimately unhelpful. It's portrayed as a romantic-drama, but most of the drama focuses on the bromance between Jun-su and Chan-jin. It's not even very clear how the love triangle is dissolved; they're just suddenly okay with each other in the end. Overall, I'd say don't bother watching this drama.*

KDrama to Watch: Descendents of the Sun (2016)

Descendants of the Sun (2016)

Grade: B+

16 Episodes
Viewing Platform: Netflix

Yoo Si-jin is a special forces captain who has a run-in with a pretty doctor after stopping a motorcycle thief and breaking up a street fight, all on his off-duty time along with his best friend Seo Dae-young, a sergeant in the special forces unit with him. Despite the punk's thieving, Si-jin takes pity on the struggling young man who was just trying to leave behind the gang life. Dr. Kang Mo-yeon is suspicious of Si-jin's identity, thinking he's also a thug, but a mutual frenemy – who happens to be Dae-young's on-again, off-again girlfriend – confirms Si-jin is relatively harmless. It's difficult to accept Si-jin's career, however, and Mo-yeon decides to not see the captain anymore. Then, after Mo-yeon abruptly shuts down her hospital chairman's egotistical (and very inappropriate) advances, she is sent to a country in the Middle East for a month on a goodwill service mission. It just so happens that Si-jin and Dae-young are dispatched in the same area. What happens when a natural disaster strikes, trapping Korean workers in a half-finished, collapsed plant with the military and medical teams having to work together? Will Mo-yeon be able to accept what it takes to be in a relationship with a soldier, or will she continue to resist her feelings, opting for emotional certainty and safety?

*For a show about soldiers, it was not based on a central political conflict or war, which I found intriguing. However, it is mostly action and drama, with plenty of violence in the mix, and that combination doesn't hold my interest very well. There was some humor, but it was subtle and only sprinkled in for flavor, and while some characters struggled with romantic feelings, it was not central to the plot. This did lead to dynamic characters that go through some development over the course of the show, including those in supporting roles, which does make for good writing.There is a definite sense of patriotism in this drama as well, which I can appreciate. Then there is Si-jin, who positively drips with charisma (Song Joong-ki from “A Werewolf Boy,” [2012], “Penny Pinchers,” [2011], and “Sungkyunkwan Scandal,” [2010]). I did NOT like how one of the characters broke the 4^th wall at the end of the show, though; it didn't fit the serious, realistic feel of the rest of the drama. And I'm still not sure how the title relates to the show. Overall, it is a quality production, and I might watch it again.*

InFilm to Miss: Heropanti (2014)

Heropanti (2014)

Viewing Platform: Netflix

Dimpy's older sister elopes with a teacher's son, Rakesh, and their father goes on a rampage. Chaudhary's men capture anyone who knows Rakesh, beating them until they give information as to the eloped couple's whereabouts. One of the friends, rascally Bablu, decides to stay captured because he catches a glimpse of a mysterious beauty who previously stole his heart. Once he discovers his crush is none other than Chaudhary's younger daughter, Dimpy, Bablu sends the father on a wild goose chase to Delhi. He also manages to convince the father to take Dimpy along in case she runs off in his absence – ensuring Bablu has even more time alone with Dimpy. What happens when Dimpy starts to have feelings for Bablu? Will she break her father's heart the way her older sister did? How will Chaudhary react when he notices the two stealing glances at each other?

*This drama has lots of violence, and I did not like the overall feel emanating from this group of self-righteous albeit powerful men frightening and grabbing the women in the household. Chaudhary was a law unto himself – he even admits to murdering people early on in the story – and he wonders why his daughters want to leave him. It's frightening to consider there are men today who rule their estates like their own fiefdoms, deciding who to kill, beat, kidnap or disown according to their own laws. The explanation that he was doing it out of “love” for his daughter was inexcusable. The lead guy had some slick dance and fighting moves, but his face looks plastic, and I couldn't like his antics. This was a miss for me.*

InFilm to Miss: Total Siyapaa (2014)

Total Siyapaa (2014)

Viewing Platform: Netflix 

She's Indian. He's Pakistani. However, those differences are the least of this young couple's problems, as Asha brings Aman home to meet her parents for the first time. What happens when mishap after mishap threatens to destroy their burgeoning relationship?

*This flick has a “Meet the Parents” vibe, with every awkward situation imaginable for the characters to go through, but it isn't funny at all. They're all pretty bad people, too, so I didn't feel remotely sorry for them. An alcoholic, flirtatious sister that is hiding at her mom's house because she racked up charges on her husband's credit card bills (and laughs about it); a potentially cheating father and husband (that the movie never clarifies whether or not he's cheating because that's “what all men do”); a daughter who refuses to seek immediate medical attention for the man her fiance bludgeoned with frozen soup, just so he won't go to jail (even though it was an accident); and a grandmother who makes an obnoxious 5 year old girl cry with some harsh chastisement. Poorly written plot, badly written characters, lame music – I won't watch this again, and I recommend skipping it.*

InFilm to Watch: Happy New Year (2014)

Happy New Year (2014)

Viewing Platform: Netflix

Charlie concocts a plan to exact revenge on the man who ruined his family's good name and framed his father for an incredible theft. Charlie assembles a team to break into a safe and steal millions of dollars worth of diamonds from the two-faced, manipulative, greedy Grover. Unfortunately, it all hinges on Charlie's team gaining access to a certain room in a certain building: the hotel hosting the Worldwide Dance Competition. Will they be able to convince the bar dancer to help them, even though her only dream is to open a dance studio for children? What happens when Charlie starts to develop feelings for their instructor? Will it interfere with his plans to successfully avenge his father and bring honor to his nation?

*It's an odd combination of action, drama, comedy and romance, but when you have a 3 hour movie, it can all fit. I didn't care for the “bar dancer” scene when they go to recruit their instructor (there were half-naked women dancing on poles as men threw money at them), or the opening scene with the street fighting and gratuitous violence. The rest of the show was fun, with lots of vibrant colors and upbeat music. I find it interesting that most female lead characters in these Indian films start off as feisty and independent, which initially attracts the male lead, but through the course of the movie, they are shown to possess all the traditional qualities and habits of women that make a good wife. This could be anything from the way she smiles at children, serves the lead a cool beverage, bows respectfully to an elder, or burns incense and prays to a deity statue in her daily routine. That makes me think those things are important in Indian culture. I've also noticed that most of Shah Rukh Khan's films have lots of national pride woven into the stories and motivations for his characters; another important aspect of their culture. Overall, if you like heist movies and dance competition movies, you'll like this movie, too. I might watch it again.*

TDrama to Watch: Who's The One (2011)

Who's The One (2011)

Grade: B+

13 episodes, 70 minutes each
Viewing Platform: Netflix

Shen Ruo Wei is a top plastic surgeon competing for her agency's newly vacant chief surgeon position. She receives a letter from a recently deceased aunt: Ruo Wei is now the proud owner of a ramshackle cabin in the middle of a backwoods village in the mountains. Meanwhile, an obese but sweet-natured and attentive orchid farmer named Yan Tien Yan is attempting to marry his longtime fiancee (for the third time). What happens when Ruo Wei's prominent career inspires Tien Yan's fiancee to finally flee the tiny village, on the very same weekend Ruo Wei drives up to inspect her inherited manor? How long will it take Tien Yan and Ruo Wei to realize they knew each other in the past? Will Tien Yan be able to win over his runaway bride after an extreme makeover? How will Ruo Wei handle the Pygmalion effect (and is it simply her work that she loves)?

*The first several episodes were slow and sad, and overall the script is written rather poorly, but the characters won me over. There isn't a lot of complications in this drama either – just enough so the characters have a chance to develop and grow, without dragging on. I really liked Tien Yan's energy and Ruo Wei's self-assured, self-possessed air that still allowed her to love and be loved. Usually the career woman chooses her work over the man, or if she sacrifices her work, it doesn't seem realistic for her to do that complete turnaround after seeing all that pride from her. However, there are enough reasons for Ruo Wei to *spoiler alert* leave her career that it isn't just for her man. My only wish is that the writers would have given Ruo Wei and Tien Yan that “ah-ha!” moment when *spoiler alert* they realize they've technically been married this whole time. That really seems like a lost opportunity for any drama. I might watch this again.*

Web KDrama to Miss: After School: Lucky or Not 2 (2014)

After School: Lucky or Not 2 (2014)

Grade: C

12 Episodes, 15 minutes each
Viewing Platform: Netflix

Four teen boys have a club where they pick a random mission from a box, then do their best to complete said mission. This can be anything from “eat until you barf” to helping someone in need. One of their classmates, Song Joo Hee, decides to join the club in order to humiliate one of its members after he called her “poop girl” in front of all their peers. The “pick-a-mission” club decides to let Joo Hee join because they need a babysitter (one of the boys gets stuck babysitting a little sibling). What happens when Joo Hee's best guy friend joins with her? Will the club be able to complete their missions? What happens when romantic tensions rise between the members?

*The web drama has a “variety show” feel to it, as each mission allows for the writers to explore different themes and settings, including Chinese action, gang violence, and romantic drama. While this can be fun, when each episode is only 15 minutes it's hard to understand the “original” characters. It feels choppy. There's some fun goofy humor, but this format is not my taste. Probably won't watch again.*

KDrama to Miss: Madame Antoine (2016)

Madame Antoine (2016)

Grade: C+

16 Episodes
Viewing Platform: Netflix

Go Hye-rim is a divorcee and single mother working as a fortune-teller in a cafe. Her gimmick is to claim she channels the dead queen of France for her inspiration, and she is only caught a couple times when a client happens to understand her few memorized strings of French. Choi Soo-hyeon is an award-winning psychologist, and he opens a counseling center right above Hye-rim's cafe after entering a business deal with a makeup manufacturer. Soo-hyeon is determined to prove women do not know or express true love, claiming it is all a temporary hormone-induced state, of which companies can take advantage in their advertising strategies. What happens when Soo-hyeon decides to try and win Hye-rim's affections? Will she fall for the rich, famous doctor, as Soo-hyeon hypothesizes, or will the psychologist find himself the victim of his own experiment? And how will Soo-hyeon's abandonment as a child influence his relationship with the pretty fortune-teller?

* I had a hard time seeing Sung Joon as a male lead – he's played the antagonist in at least a couple dramas, and he just isn't attractive in my eyes. He has that cold, intellectual, almost mean look to him, and I'm just not sure this character's vulnerabilities were enough to see him as anything but the “bad guy.” Go Hye-rim's character was cute, but having her daughter end up living with her ex-husband seemed like a shortcut for allowing Hye-rim to be carefree in her dating, and the deception between the two main characters got old fast. The old grandma having a crush on the guy 30+ years younger than her was really weird, too, although it didn't go too far (thank goodness). This drama had an okay ending, and I liked the mischievous, playful tone in the main theme song, as well as some of the initial “who's deceiving who” mind games. Definitely not scientifically or even ethically sound, though. It's okay for a first-watch, but I probably won't watch it again.*

JDrama to Watch: Good Morning Call (2016)

Japanese Drama  

Good Morning Call (2016)

Grade: B-

17 episodes, about 45 minutes each
Viewing Platform: Netflix

High school student Yoshikawa Nao decides to live in the city on her own in order to attend a decent high school, as her parents now live in the countryside. Unfortunately, Nao soon learns that she is a rent scam victim once she walks in to find the school's resident “hot guy” also moving in to the same apartment! All the girls dormitories are full by this point, and Uehara Hisashi refuses to move back in with his now-married older brother, so the two reluctantly agree to share the apartment and split the rent. What happens when Nao's parents find out? Will the school find out and expel Nao and Uehara before they can graduate? What happens when Nao starts to have feelings for her cold, distant roommate?

*This drama had a very strong start with lots of awkward falling-in-love moments, but it slowed considerably towards the halfway point. There were also a few F-bombs and a clearly lesbian character (if that bothers you – I thought it was an interesting story arc), but the show stayed innocent despite having two teenagers living together. I didn't see a lot of character development for Uehara, however. He stays quite taciturn throughout the show, belittling and insulting Nao when he does talk to a point that even when he *spoiler alert* decides to commit to her, he's still not treating her all that well. It feels like a shallow victory for the viewers. All the guys' haircuts were distractingly bad, too. I might watch this again.*

KDrama to Miss: Dream Knight (2015)

Dream Knight (2015)

Grade: C+

(web drama)

12 episodes, about 10-18 minutes each
Viewing Platform: Netflix

Joo In Hyung is a high school girl living alone in an RV after her mother's sudden death. She also has some sort of degenerative disease that will soon kill her. Despite the loneliness and bullying at school, In Hyung is determined to have a positive outlook on life. One day four handsome guys show up at her RV, and while she tries to shoo them away initially, they eventually win her over and help make her hard life much more bearable. What happens when the teen idol from her school, Junior, finds out about her four helpers, or knights? Will he be able to convince In Hyung that she no longer needs them? And how will the knights react when they learn their fate once In Hyung finds happiness?

*While the script wasn't the best, the plot was very interesting from a conceptual point of view. Girls in despair have knights magically show up in their lives to help them find happiness again, but the question arises about the fate of said knights once their duties are fulfilled. There were a few references to the traditional “little mermaid” fairy tale: the non-Disney version has the mermaid turn into sea foam or bubbles and disappear at the end of the story. Honestly, though, how is anyone supposed to be happy when one of the lovers in a couple has to die? That's why this drama didn't earn a higher grade; I like everyone to have a truly happy ending.*

KDrama to Watch: The Sound of Your Heart (2016

The Sound of Your Heart (2016)

Grade: B-

10 episodes, about 30 minutes each
Viewing Platform: Netflix

Jo Seok is an aged, famous webtoon artist, and he tells the story of how he found his way into the business. At the time he started - set in the present day - he lived at home with his mom, dad and brother. His dad owned an unsuccessful fried chicken shop, supplementing with odd jobs, his brother worked an office job, and his mom ran the household while Jo Seok struggled with creating an appealing webtoon, since he lacked talent and ambition in every other field. (His drawing style is unappealing to most – but these days that isn't always an indication of failure.) Each episode tells two short stories about Jo Seok's life with his family and with his then-girlfriend Ae-bong.

*This is the first Korean sitcom I've watched, and it really did have a variety show type feel to it, as each episode had a different theme or style. One episode had the dad and Jo Seok acting as if they were in the mafia, while another episode looked like a romance between Jo Seok and Ae-bong, for example. A few episodes really had me laughing out loud, just at the plain absurdity of the situations, but the other episodes I didn't appreciate quite as much. I'm not sure if that was cultural or just my taste. Definitely lots of bathroom humor, and more cursing than usual Kdrama shows. It is based off the very popular, longest-running web comic in South Korea, “The Sound of Heart.” It was a very interesting diversion from my normal drama fare. I might watch those few episodes I liked again.*

TDrama to Watch: Refresh Man (2016)

Refresh Man (2016)

Grade: B+

28 episodes, 40 minutes each
Viewing Platform: Netflix

In high school, Zhong Yu-tang was the top of her class, and everyone thought she would go far. Ten years later, and she's slated to become the company's next head secretary. Then the new CEO shows up – the kid with the lowest grades in school she used to be friends with – and he quickly demotes her to sales. Yu-tang is determined to prove to the new CEO, Ji Wen Kai, that she has what it takes to prove her worth in the work world, despite being relegated to the “garbage disposal” sales team 3. Will Yu-tang prove Wen Kai wrong, or will the “refresh man” coast along with the other slackers? How will Wen Kai react once the head secretary from the company they are collaborating with starts making moves on Yu-tang?

*Aaron Yan is a super cute actor. This series has a lot of fun flashbacks, slowly filling in the pieces to their connections in the past. I also really enjoyed the chemistry between Wen Kai and Yu-tang – there was plenty of buildup without feeling too slow. Near the last few episodes I started getting bored, but that's typical with these longer dramas. I also appreciated how Wen Kai and Yu-tang treated each other like adults – at least *spoiler alert* once they confessed their feelings. It's still a little sad that the two had to spend ten years apart because Wen Kai needed to “improve” himself – why couldn't he have done that with Yu-tang by his side? They would have had that much more time to love each other. The antagonist was written in an interesting way – not evil, just ambitious, but with enough conflict to keep the story (mostly) interesting. I'd watch this again.*

InFilm to Maybe Watch: Dilwale (2015)

Dilwale (2015)

Viewing Platform: Netflix

Raj's rascally younger brother Veer goes to great lengths to woo a beautiful girl he happens upon, even going so far as telling lies about being the sole owner of his brother's successful car detailing shop and about Veer receiving regular beatings from his brother. While trying to impress Ishita, Veer steps in when some drug dealers try to coerce the local bar owner to sell drugs. The drug dealer's leader, King, later sends his men to beat up Veer for interfering. A mysterious figure then shows up at King's warehouse, beats his men, and sets everything on fire – including millions of dollars worth of drugs. King is determined to find the man who calls himself Kaali and seek revenge, not realizing his new “car guy,” the mild-mannered Raj, is none other than his enemy. Will defending his brother bring back bad memories from Raj's former lifestyle? What happens once Raj discovers the identity of Ishita's sister? And how will a misunderstanding fifteen years in the past resolve itself as the two young lovers struggle to reconcile their families' differences?

*This is the best version of a forbidden Romeo-Juliet type love story I've ever watched. However, it is much more violent than I typically enjoy (beating up bad guys with half a dozen repeated punches to the face, versus just one punch to knock someone out – there was a lot of hatred represented in the repetition that made me like the good guys less). The serious, deadly confrontations mixed in with the silly, comical moments was a strange juxtaposition as well. I did love the vivid colors in this film, though, and several of the musical numbers were fun. The ending was a bit too abrupt, and some might find the flashbacks a bit confusing (I kept track by noticing if Raj had a beard or not: beard = present day, no beard = flashback.) It's fun for a first watch, so I can recommend it for that, but I probably won't watch it again.*

InFilm to Miss: Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham... (2001)

Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham... (2001)

Viewing Platform: Netflix

The affluent, successful business owner Yash Raichand and his wife Nandini are unable to have children of their own. One day Yash brings home an orphan and adopts him, and their family feels complete. Eight years later, Rahul becomes a big brother, much to everyone's surprise. Rohan is loved, adored and considered a miracle baby, but he still knows his mother loves his older brother best, a brother he grows up thinking is a blood relation. It isn't until ten years after his brother suddenly leaves home that Rohan overhears the truth. Will Rohan succeed in bringing his brother home and reunite his broken family? Or will their father's pride continue to prevent reconciliation?

*There was so much sadness in this family, not even the incredibly hokey early 2000s dance numbers and ridiculous fashion could lighten the heaviness in this film. Who separates a mother from her child for a decade just because the father doesn't agree with the child's choice in mate? What wife says nothing to the man who is responsible for tearing their happy family apart? Perhaps there were cultural elements to this story that I could just not understand, including a son that is so “obedient” as to never challenge a parent's incorrect judgment. Sure, everyone cries (spoiler alert) and is repentant at the end, but it doesn't justify the fact this man stole a decade of love from his own family all because of something he said in anger that no one dared to correct because he was the “god” of the house. Plus it had that high pitched, nasally female voice I dislike from that period and several provocative dance numbers with scantily clad women. I won't watch this again.*

TDrama to Miss: Bromance (2015)

Bromance (2015)

Grade: C-

20 episodes, 40 minutes each
Viewing Platform: Dramafever

Pi Yanuo has been leading a double life since she was born: she must live her life as a boy until her 26^th birthday, in order to avoid the terrible fate a local fortune teller predicted for her parents. Yanuo learned martial arts, has a boyish haircut, and only wears clothes made for boys in order to trick her destiny and keep herself safe. But 100 days before her 26^th birthday, when she can lead her life as a woman, she helps Du Zi Feng fend off an attack, not realizing the man she helped was the general manager of the amusement park, as well as a triad gang leader. What happens when Zi Feng asks Yanuo to become his “sworn brother” and work for him? Will Yanuo be able to ward off Zi Feng's sister's advances? How will strife within the triad impact their relationship? And what happens when an old elementary school friend arrives on the scene to steal Yanuo's affections?

*I had a hard time finishing this drama. It's half gang story and half gay love story, what with murder over drug trafficking and Yanuo's secret about her being a girl – both subjects which I do not enjoy as entertainment. It was also difficult to have that “suspension of disbelief” for these two virtual strangers to go so far as to swear fealty for each other, then immediately put themselves in risky situations for the other person over and over. It's not justified in their relationship to do something crazy like that so soon after meeting, nor does it make sense for their characters – the viewer doesn't know them well enough to judge if the risky behavior is typical for those characters or not. Then there was way too much kissing throughout – it ruins all the buildup if the two lovers are kissing every other episode, or several times an episode. Additionally, I did not find the two main actors attractive (Yanuo is a pretty woman, but an ugly man), and like I've said before, when I am spending hours watching actors, I have to at least find them a little attractive in order to fully enjoy the show. I really did not enjoy this drama, and I won't watch it again.*

KDrama to Watch: Miss Panda and Mr. Hedgehog (2012)

Miss Panda and Mr. Hedgehog (2012)

Grade: A-

16 Episodes
Viewing Platform: Netflix

Ex-convict and aspiring young patissier Go Seung-ji decides to find a new job once he realizes his adopted grandfather's generosity could very well run the small bakery out of business. When he finds out the baker's daughter is released from prison, it finalizes Seung-ji's decision to move out and make room for the father and daughter to reunite. However, not many businesses will hire ex-cons. Fortunately for him, Pan Da-yang is out of money and desperate for a talented patissier to save the small bakery Da-yang's parents had left her upon their death. Just as Da-yang has accepted Seung-ji's help, a classmate she hasn't seen since elementary school arrives on the scene: the tall and handsome Choi Won-il, the new CEO of the most famous bakery in Korea, ready to reunite with Da-yang, his first love. Who will Pan Da-yang choose? What happens when Da-yang and Won-il find out about Seung-ji's time served in prison? And will Seung-ji, a.k.a. Dochi, ever conquer the famous bakery that rejected him five years ago?

*Most Kdramas tend to focus on or at least start from the girl's side of the story, but this drama is more about Dochi, and he is a very fun, sweet character to get to know. His whole demeanor is that of an energetic, youthful rascal, an underdog that will defeat his enemies with sheer skill and determination, and you can't help but cheer for his success. I didn't think “hedgehog” was that good of a comparison, though, especially because he is so vociferously and physically demonstrative of his love for those in his life. I didn't think the lead girl really resembled a panda in her demeanor, either. There was a really interesting mystery woven into the love triangle, though, and that made this drama really stand out. There is also a great bromance, an enemy that was truly terrible, and victims that let go of potential hate and anger from their past and were happy. Overall it's a positive-feeling show, and although the lead girl isn't my favorite actress, I'd watch it again.*