Review: MIMI

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I finished this mini series last night and I found a great motivation to make a review about it today. So after finishing the film, I kind of felt withdrawals which is bizarre because I thought it's an average story, and the acting was lacking immensely despite how they look amazing onscreen. I thought Changmin was cute, handsome, passionate but in most of his acting moments, stiff and dull. On the other hand, Moon Ga Young is satisfactory though, there is still so much to improve in her acting. I found the supporting casts commendable though, like the creepy guy in front of Min Woo's apartment and the death angel or something like that. I was happy by the performances of the supporting casts and that includes the girl who has the ability to guess apartment's passwords that trespass on Min Woo's place but for a good cause - which is perhaps, concern? Maybe the withdrawals was because of the excellent execution of the reunion scene at the last episode in the latter minutes by Mimi and Min Woo. It was the only time that I saw Min Woo come to life through the expressive eyes of Changmin. To be honest, I didn't expect him to deliver the scene that well so at the same time, I was proud of him because I felt him and his emotion coming together so I was like, finally this is what made it worth watching. I had that kind of reassurance that I made the right choice to watch despite not being my instant favorite from the start.

In A Good Way Episode 16

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I haven't found any In A Good Way episode as fascinating as this one. The peers of both Jia En and Liu Chuan were both really curious about the progress of their relationship at this early stage. Hence, they talked about the "bases" to which Jia En responded blankly and Xiao Wei as a "baseball game?". Then Bai Xue is discovered to haven't been kissed in her life while Tracy is really the liberated or shall I say the perverted friend. Anyhow, I love the diversity of everyone's characters because it means that they could provide something into the group that is special and supplementary to others. Meanwhile, the boys, A Qing and Ri Qi are naughty talking about the bases with Liu Chuan wherein he responded "love is not a baseball game" which was smart. The principle of "LiuChuanism" is something that I really admire and that will never wither. Not just because it's a responsible foundation for any relationship but because it's rational and thinking independently. Him saying that when a situation comes, he's confident to act according to his own judgment. Anyhow, I find the whole execution part of the scenes amusing because it is still considered as innocent and a childlike one compared to the real thing. But another thing is given to this drama, it's hilarious!

In A Good Way Episode 15

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I still need to catch up with In A Good Way which I never imagined to be doing because I love this drama, however it has occurred to me that I have to marathon 3-4 episodes for a week. Hopefully, I'd catch up with episode 16 so I could finally be back on track. I wish.

So going back to this episode, aside from the obvious that is Liu Chuan and Jia En finally together, Ren Wei has been really strange which we all know the reason why - he has finally seen the worth of Jia En in his life. But what could be done when Jia En now belongs to someone else? As a good friend, the least yet also the best thing he could do for her is to be happy and adapt the attitude that Bai Xue has towards the relationship of two which is positive. If I were to advise Ren Wei, that is to hang out more with Bai Xue so his crush could be by his side and that there would still be rainbows and sunshine upon him no matter how its hard. But instance just shows the difference between the two feelings - love and admiration. Because there is a different approach between them and heck, you could be attracted to anyone you see around but you could feel something that is special to the person you love. I feel sorry for Ren Wei but I'm also happy for Jia En and Liu Chuan so I guess I could start talking about them endearingly.

In A Good Way Episode 14

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Episode 14 is a disappointing episode to me because I didn't expect the consequences after consequences that happened. Though it is possible, I feel that it was an act to finally force the development of the OTP. I'm happy for those two and those fans who were pleased in this episode. But I'm indifferent in my thoughts because I simply did not want this kind of romantic confession to be overdone which you will be seeing in the latter part of this episode. To be honest, I wasn't paying attention because everything was just so cheesy and it goes against the subtleness of this series. However, I know it's about time but I believe that they could have done a better job in letting Liu Chuan know what Jia En really feels. Furthermore, I felt kind of irritated at Liu Chuan in this episode because he was just really stupid - for leaving the treasure hunt club with no explanation in the midst of chaos. Because of that, I wanted to join Bai Xue and Ren Wei in cursing him from behind. Do you believe that love really makes you irrational? This is proven to be the same case to Liu Chuan because he wanted to save Jia En but at the same time, turned his back to his friends. He's annoying, isn't he?

In A Good Way Episode 13

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I’m a huge fan of this episode despite reading few negative comments about it because the momentum of the long and electrifying hug shared by Liu Chuan and Jia En was basically not followed up in this episode. But we all know how this drama works right? It’s a work in progress and I’m sure the cliffhanger in the end of episode 12 won’t be put to waste in the future. Patience is indeed a virtue to achieve the pleasure of having Liu Chuan and Jia En to finally express their love for one another. If you’re going to seek for the development of the OTP in this episode, you won’t be able to enjoy it as much as I did. I’m glad I wasn’t floored in anticipation because it would be disappointing to me as well like what happened to others. There were more plenty amazing shots than a one lacking element so to me, it was still a great episode. Furthermore, the supporting casts were once again highlighted so I have no problem even if Liu Chuan and Jia En were being pushed aside.

In A Good Way Episode 12

     

Photo Credit: Yao Chun Yao's facebook page

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In a nutshell, this is the best episode yet! I really enjoyed it and I can't wait to download this episode so I could repeat the amazing concert experience in this drama featuring Wu Bai and Zhang Zhen Yue, two of the most popular music acts from the 90s. During the concert, I found my love for new songs such as "Freedom" and "Love Me, Don't Leave" by Zhang Zhen Yue, so for that matter, I am happy and thankful I was introduced to them. Furthermore, the performances were awesome, Wu Bai was powerful and Zhang Zhen Yue was a quality and a passionate one as well. IAGW was able to insert some important scenes while the performances were going on and I thought this drama did so well in that department once again. Though I have read opinions such as they went far from reality with the production getting beyond expectations, I can't agree to them completely. Of course, we need those lighted props and such in order to characterize the scenes more and I find no fault in doing that. It doesn't hurt to give in to pleasures sometimes, moreover; it didn't overshadow the essence of the event, since they were able to show how everyone persevered to make it successful through the process. We saw them work hard and not disheartened by failures; hence, most certainly, they deserved an spectacular concert.

"In A Good Way" Episode 8

This episode tingles in the continuous character development as it is built to supplement the story. During the previous episode, Jia En found out in a subtle way who 3631 is. That led to an awkward silence and acceptance from both. He must have admitted to himself that in the end, Jia En had put all the pieces together no matter how much he tried to hide himself from her and that there is no excuse for it. I must say, I was pretty satisfied at how she discovered him and more importantly, the way she responded upon knowing his identity online. Moreover, I was surprised at how composed she is, and it was totally opposite of his fears and expectations.

After few weeks of vacation, Liu Chuan and Jia En met at the Treasure Hunt Club headquarters - Jia En asked Liu Chuan how 3631 is doing and he talked about him as a third person, like a common friend or something. So, they will continue to jump off the seasons in order to meet the future. Okay, I am not complaining and I am excited to meet them on the current year of 2014. But not quickly, I want to savour every moment of watching them grow and witness the change brought by college and friends.

"In A Good Way" Episode 7

It's an extraordinary New Year for everyone who celebrated it through the special camp out organized by the Treasure Hunt Club members, kicking off 1997 by sleeping all together under the night sky. Though they put up a tent earlier which eventually was wrecked after too much excitement from the card game; this highlighted the day that just started. But before completely moving forward, let us go back to 1996 where 3631 and sky's friendship was virtually formed.

Another great year has passed by for Jia En, which has brought delightful events in her life, even exceeding the awesomeness of 1995. Well, it's better to carry that kind of attitude on to the next year - which probably is the right attitude to a better year ahead. Hence, I am impressed once again in this show, as it managed to strengthen the foundation to Jia En's growth as an individual which I consider as a charming young woman and deserving of Liu Chuan's attention.

"In A Good Way" Episode 6

This is a dream-like episode to our heroine Jia En as she mesmerized the Christmas Party of Cheng Dong University with her transformation in a beautiful dress, year 1996. Meanwhile, the chance of 3631 to finally reveal himself to his online friend, Jia En did not push through because of the circumstances that happened in between the planned confession and carrying it out. Hence, the mystery of 3631 has been stretched longer on to the next episode. I am not complaining though, as for I understand, they focused on the Christmas ball and the growth of Jia En as a woman. It's cute however, that Liu Chuan is jealous of his virtual rival that is 3631, his online identity. Well, boy you need to step up your game or else 3631 is gonna snatch Jia En's heart first.

Hello there, so we have here another juicy episode of In A Good Way. This drama is so interesting, really. Just when you think you have things figured out, it gives you an awkward reality. The characters are well developed and loved by the writer so much as each have their own spotlight given to them. That makes Liu Chuan and Jia En's roles supplemented by the supporting casts, as everyone becomes a tool to each other's growth and change. Speaking of spotlight, I like Ren Wei so much now. His responsibility being a good friend to Jia En is admiring which is different from the Ren Wei we've seen in episode 1, even when we say it's a platonic love that they share. I'm glad they are actually each other's brother and sister. I don't want them to have romantic relationship or whatsoever because what they have now is precious. Though I feel that Ren Wei has so much potential in him to unleash as an ideal man both for Bai Xue and Jia En.

Speaking of character development, Jia En shined in this episode while Liu Chuan took a step backward from his usual upfront and transparent rationality to deal with problems. It's good to see him flawed and that it makes him even more human. I know that like Jia En, he's not perfect but what I like about him is that he overthinks. Maybe because I myself, overthinks a lot too which causes me to be conscious all the time. So, I can totally relate to his awkwardness to come out, how realistic it was portrayed was something that In A Good Way can only pull off. I mean, knowing Liu Chuan, he's a character to be admired but then, we also have to put him in a strange light.

Meanwhile the trio "Men of Steel" - Ah Di, Jacky, and Ren Wei are definitely whack! Guys are so funny and weird but not depressing at all, if ever they act like all drank, it's still hilarious. I wonder where the other Man of Steel has went though, wish he'd come back and join the fun.

Oh em gee. We can't miss out the charms of the two Musketeers, Ri Qi and A Qing too, as they both tried to get closer to the two friends of Jia En, Xiao Wei and Tracy. I think that these two can totally melt my heart away from Liu Chuan for the meantime. I love how Ri Qi approached Xiao Wei and talk about his family's business. Furthermore, A Qing trying to catch Tracy's attention  is very enticing, because boy is cute but Tracy is still giving him cold shoulders despite that. Oh em gee why can't you just grab the opportunity to get to know him. But then, I can't blame her sometimes because he's too straightforward and you wouldn't know his motives to her. Anyhow, it's clear that he has interest to her, because he finds her pretty which she actually is.

I have to make a new paragraph for Ri Qi's coming out in this episode though. Being the wanderer of the group, he comes off as a matured person and that explains why oh my goodness he made me squeal at times for giving Xiao Wei lingering stares. Plus the way he projects himself differently from everyone is noticeable in this episode. I wish, to see more of him in the future.

This episode ended with a question. Will 3631 be found out finally in the next episode or not?

Overall, once again, it's an episode to look forward to.

"In A Good Way" Episode 5

I love this episode! It portrayed Liu Chuan's complexity as a human being - which is the opposite of him whom we've seen in previous episodes that is almost a perfect image of an idol - which is too good to be true to even exist. Whereas for Jia En, it showed her lack of emotional growth and her need to learn the basic survival tips in life. That isn't a bad thing for we understand the level of maturity she has. She is someone who can be influenced by friends yet wanting to achieve independence to herself at the same time. 

When she failed the audition, she tried to shrug off her loss in front of everyone who went to cheer for her but in the end, letting Liu Chuan to be the shock absorber of her frustrations. Later on, we see these two patch things up between them however, bad moods won't go well with bad timing. Hence, awkwardness all over their body language. Nonetheless, Liu Chuan still helped Jia En in her practicals of jitterbug wherein they performed a self satisfying dance - flashing Jia En's bright smile and in return Liu Chuan's smitten eyes.

"In A Good Way" Episode 4

This is by far the sweetest episode to date but what I mean by sweet is only an appetizer to the development of the characters involved in the story. In this episode, we can clearly see that Liu Chuan is in a state of adornment with Jia En, however reluctant to let the world know. Nonetheless his eyes speak the truth through the gazes he's thrown at her and his pleasant silences and awkwardness around her totally sends me the assurance, our boy is having a crush (or maybe in love). Oh my goodness, it's cheesy to read these words but I promise, the pacing of attraction on the part of Liu Chuan is gradual and oh so interesting in itself. To be honest, more than seeing him like that around Jia En, it's cute when you see an equally adorable guy figure out his feelings for the opposite sex. I don't know, I'm enjoying the push and pull of strings between Jia En and Liu Chuan. So to continue with episode 4, they were separated for a year after Liu Chuan was once involved as Jia En's personal tutor. That means a year or less of no communication. However, they met again of course (surprise, but not surprising) and it's an oh so precious moment for both so let's take a look at some of the sweet and memorable moments between the two and also with the other cast members.

In A Good Way Episode 3

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Aside from real life, I am currently living tangled in the story of this drama. Yes, you heard the ridiculous and straight forward confession of mine (giddy). Perhaps, I am loving the nostalgia it gives me as I find joys in going back in time reminiscing the old days. Well, since it has occurred to me now, I know that there is no turning back. I have been charmed by its potion which is of inducing, realistic, engaging, fun, and lovely story about friendship, young love, family and freedom. So let’s get started with episode 3!

Episode 3 is much less busier than episode 2 as they focused on the competition raised between the three musketeers and iron men (men of steal) which was an appalling thing to do among matured people but not when we realize that we have college freshmen in the here considering the character of young people who want to challenge each other. So this is normal in the process of growth in college, right? So, I think it’s a cliché thing to happen and such but at the same time, I love how creative they are in execution and in putting value on it in the end. They made use of bikes instead of motorcycles because in their era, mountain biking is more popular, which pretty much showed the strength of Liu Chuan and Ren Wei in pushing the pedal to win, and on the other hand, describing their generation from 1995.

With the match that happened, I was rooting for the Three Musketeers led by Liu Chuan over the Iron Men (Men of Steal) because Ren Wei has the tendency to be an airhead most of the time and he talks beyond of what is expected of him to do. However, who would have thought that this competition will lead to the kind gesture by the winning team to the losing one as they volunteered to help the Iron Men (Men of Steal) guys in doing the laundry of the kids from dorm 1 as promised after losing the match? So cool.

"In A Good Way" Episode 2

I’m back with In A Good Way and excited to share it with you. I think that this will probably be one of those random posts that I will be having because I really enjoy talking about this drama this way. To me, it is refreshing that I am into a raving parade for it because of so many factors, just like what episode 2 given me while watching which you will know later on. I loved to pause a lot during this episode and just absorb the ‘feels’ because I can’t let the moment pass by just easily.  Spare the incoherence please. (Grin)

I guess, my review on episode 2 would be provoked by thoughts of why this drama is well-written and executed, and why it has been a while since I felt this kind of passion in sharing the joys of watching with everyone. Hope that after reading this, you watch this drama definitely.

First Impression: In A Good Way (Taiwanese Drama)

It's been a long time since I attempted to watch a Taiwanese drama after Autumn's Concerto since I think I already forgot the pleasure it brings me as I was too pre-occupied watching so many Korean dramas as well as Japanese. So, now that I have a chance to rekindle my love and appreciation for this kind of genre once again, I am truly embracing this opportunity given to me by this series with an open heart. 

I am crossing my fingers that it will do well. Please... And one reasons for the well wish is the very impressive and touching start or impression it has given me. It was not overwhelming yet full of good stuff. Definitely, I can claim to myself that it was a worthwhile one as I have waited unconsciously then bam pleasant surprise! And it's Taiwanese which is a breath of fresh air, anyone? They can go up par to producing such as well. Hope they stay the same and if not to maintain their good start, exceed my expectations on the next episodes. (Fistpump)

Reaction Post: Reply 1994 Episodes 9 - 11

Episode 9: Na Jung confessed to Oppa-ya about her feelings towards him which was on the day of the first snow in Seoul early in the morning. But then Na Jung was too scared to listen to Trash that she didn’t let him speak after to hear his response. She only succumb to him in embarrassment of what she did, but hey. I can’t believe that Na Jung had mustered her courage to confess to him in his room after waking him up, at least she got balls. I don’t understand Trash for being such a coward towards his feelings for her like it is obvious already but why did he ever let Na Jung confess first? Isn’t that un-gentleman-like? Well, to me at least. Though I hate more to see Oppa-ya in pain after seeing Na Jung be that way, like dude, how are we able to deal with you when what we from your eyes is totally different of what you are doing in the moment. I am so disappointed that you have kept your silence until now. I want to see your point of view, as well.

I believe that it was in this episode that everyone switched their ship to Chilbong not only because he’s better looking (which is obvious but I don’t care about their appearances in relation to the matters of true love) but also she’s treated Na Jung better than Trash. Though I stand firm in Team Oppa, I am kind of wavering with what’s in the mind of the writer. She might have formulated these tricks before or may have foreseen that this will work to create doubts but then again, the audience participation with whom to root for might possibly give way for a change of heart. No, it would bring me so much heartache if that will happen because Oppa-ya is the first love. Other than that, what is there to root for in him? He must get out of the way and prove himself deserving of Na Jung.

Reaction Post: The Heirs Episodes 11 - 14

Well I would have to speak of the four episodes as a whole and I think I wouldn't even be able to backtrack all of my favorite moments. So basically this is just a wrap up of how satisfying it has been for the past few weeks which I was originally doubtful of in this drama because you know, its history of wasted moments and dull beginnings. Cue "Love is the moment". /cringe

Moving on. Well, the Heirs in general is not the best to be categorized as a great drama, but because they do have actors who are capable in delivering their roles, I'm glad for that cause. And as I move on from the previous bitterness I had, I accept how it is now and they are excelling a lot, at least on the aspect of putting the pieces together as compared to their here and there happenings in previous episodes. The character development is finally taking place as we have passed the middle mark before it ends (which I still refuse to talk about because that would cause a major withdrawal as early as now). So I would have to talk about the characters and their progress in the story rather than the moments for now.

So starting with Kim Tan, we have started to see him as a spoiled brat, but the good things about him are still dominant despite of being a bully at school as perceived and witnessed by the students. Now that we have seen him grow, we could sense that he's developed responsibility in his actions not only for his own but also for the people whom he cares like his family, Cha Eun Sang as well as his extended environment of his which is the school and most importantly *ehem* Choi Young Do *ehem*. Anyway, the gradual open up of one's true self may be hard at first because who would have thought that he's a sweet guy to everyone? He connects well with Hyo Shin sunbae and he's a constant follower of his Hyung, Won. There are a lot of reasons for us to be attracted with Kim Tan as much as character development is concerned. Adding to that, he's only 18 yet he is thinking maturely and is always making sure that others would feel more secured than his own self. Those are really good points to note from him.

Noted: Reply 1994 Episodes 6 - 8

Episode 6 - Up until this episode, I am convinced that Trash oppa is the husband of Na Jung. That particular scene wherein Chilbong kissed Na Jung during the dare which purpose was for Samcheonpo and Yoon Jin to make peace with each other, Trash oppa was the only person who witnessed and stared at the moment, I felt his jealousy so I thought, despite of that scene, there's a big hope to my OTP (one true paring).

Plus, what is this Bingirae crushing on Trash? Gosh this is a major gossip going on but not surprising at all. They even kissed during the dare. LOL. He's so cute because it's all obvious now but of course he can't let him know yet. Reminds me of Hoya's character in Reply 1997 which I adored so much.

The ending of this episode was a heart warming one as everyone gathered in the living room to watch the 1994 Semi Final bid of South Korea in the World Cup. Added to the scene was the tenderness of the kids to Na Jung's mom after stressing her out the past few days prior to the good news. Despite everything, mom and dad are blessed to have a baby again which made everybody excited and sweet to her.

Trash oppa being affectionate to Bingirae. Hehe.

First Impression: Reply 1994

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Expectation: Upon the mention of Go Ara starring, I became scared of the outcome whether it would be satisfactory or a complete letdown from the previous offering. Furthermore, I don't think this would live up to Reply Me 1997. So this drama is off to a negative impression for me. "But who cares?" whispered this show.

Episode 1: Is that Go Ara I'm seeing because first of all, I can't believe how much she's transformed from her looks, and down to the acting department. Wow I can't believe she could deliver those lines naturally. Well, she's still not the best actress for me but if I don't associate her from her other works, I think I could look at her on a different perspective so I wouldn't be this surprised with a bit of amusement. Lol. But yeah, she's improved or pretty much has worked hard for it. So I really appreciate her transformation.

Boy, this drama didn't fail me with cinematography which reminds me that it's the same set of crew that has worked in Reply 1997. They are as expert, or have even improved than the last time. I love the inserts of the city view during the beginning of the episode which exactly made me giddy I could jump up and down my seat. Grin.

Then of course I'm introduced to new faces that I would learn more in character as the show goes by. And my most anticipated character is 'Oppa' (Jung Woo) because he's so funny but more than anything, 'Who is he and why is he a good actor? Have I missed anything brilliant in the past that I'm only seeing him now?"

Well, he's not the best looking guy from the group but he has the appeal, you know. And he's hilarious as well so who wouldn't fall for him? Too bad, he's an oppa. He can't possibly be the husband, right?

First Impression: The Heirs

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Expectation: I didn't expect a lot to make space for disappointment if there would be any. However, I had high hopes that it will deliver just enough to keep me looking forward. Since I took a peek at some of the filmed scenes in LA and I would have to thank those who took fancams of them, I already had an idea of what were going to take place right in their location but of course the sequence of events and the script are the things that I would have to watch. As I observed the atmosphere, I wasn't impressed of the casual outfits of our leads during the film, hence I found myself a bit unconvinced with the style that they were sporting in California. BUT I understood in the end, really because they focused on filming the scenes that comprises surfing, Park Shin Hye crying and Lee Min Ho being topless while taking a shower by the beach. So if we were to call them spoilers, I have known them beforehand. Adding to that, I've seen a 14 minute long preview of it and unfortunately, it didn't make a good impression on me and it made me build my doubts in the series. Regardless of all these things, I was excited because finally, this much awaited series is now available so let's take a look at what they got.

Episode 1: The sequence was a bit here and there but the biggest problem that this drama would have to face is that on how to give everybody (the actors and idols) who were part in the snapshot of character, that much deserved airtime without compromising the story. I'm almost familiar with half of that faces that appeared so far but it took me a while to tell myself that it is too much to handle. Seriously. It might even cause complaints from each and everyone's fanbases if in case that one character would be left unleashed fully. Though, I am still awestruck at the thought of how they were able to convince these people to join in the club. I mean, I myself didn't even had enough of Lee Min Ho but then I wanted more of Woo Bin, Choi Jin Hyuk, Park Hyung Shik and Min Hyuk as well. So woah, how do we squeeze in everyone in a composite screen so that there would be less headache of their exposure? I was even complaining already because Hyuk Shik didn't make an appearance for this episode and that means, I would have to ready myself to a higher probability of not having enough of him in this drama. Well, I came prepared but I'm a hopeful individual by nature so join me in crossing my fingers and in sending my well wishes to the writer and in the production team to make our impossible dream possible. Let everybody be satisfied and happy, I beg you.

Review: School 2013

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Premise: A drama that discusses the life of students beyond the school setting. This portrays a reflection on the student’s learning behavior that affects their performance in school. It basically wants to address the issue on why students hate studying. It includes family problems, personal background, and attitude that are crucial to the stage of a typical coming of age by adolescents as manifested in real life through this drama.

Commentaries:

The story: I’m not the biggest fan of school setting dramas, Japanese dramas aside, and after watching this series, my belief that this type of genre for K-dramas is auto-disliked by my taste has been made firmer because I can’t help but to compare. Unlike in Japanese dramas which are actually more expressive that really works for me, it is a huge disappointment to the Korean counterpart to reach such degree of effectiveness.