Watchlist - completed in 2024
List of all the titles I completed during 2024
+ here: Summary of main challenges I participated in on feeds
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1. BL Drama no Shuen ni Narimashita: Crank Up Hen
Japanese Special - 2023, 3 episodes
Meta and cute, wish they would have developped more the side story which really intrigued me
I would recommend this to people looking for a fluffy, cute and fun BL with some interesting meta references and a cohabitation trope. I wish it would have been more angsty and complex but it was clearly not the objective of the story. I would have really loved for the series to develop much more some of the sides characters (especially the secondary romance) but it was still a very easy and pleasant watch pretty entertaining.
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2. I Will Die Soon
Korean Drama - 2023, 4 episodes
Solid drama with great acting: some of the incarnations stole the show !
I would recommend this series to people that are looking for a thriller with a fantasy twist. Given the topic, this drama can be very triggering and is super violent. There are some elements I wish would be better developped but it is overall a very solid show which manage in only four episodes to keep you on your toes...It is never easy to review a series at the halfway mark, I hope the second part will successfully manage its landing because Part 1 raised my expectations.
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3. Our Secret Diary
Japanese Movie - 2023
A really nice and heartwarming youth romance - a stand-out in this genre <3
I would recommend this to people looking for a sweet highschool romance. It is pretty classic for the genre but it is really well done and was able to brought me a lot of feelings when I watch it. The filmmaking, the directing and the acting combined to a well-conceived scenario will provide you all the feels.
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4. Death's Game Part 2
Korean Drama - 2024, 4 episodes
A good conclusion to the story with some predictability but impactful with its great cast
I would recommend this to people that have seen Part 1 of course. It is a proper conclusion to the story, it does not aim for subtlety but is impactful. The performance of the cast (from both Part 1 and Part 2) makes it a very good watch even if there are some little things I wish would have been a bit more developed regarding the lore itself. As Part 1, be aware that this series is super violent and graphic, so you might want to check the tags if you have any trigger.
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5. Kyou Kara Ore wa!!
Japanese Drama - 2018, 10 episodes
Interesting and fun concept but very repetitive story with too little character growth
I would recommend this to people looking for a mindless but funny Japanese high school drama. It is quite classic for the genre but set in the 80's which bring up a bit of a different flavor. I think that I have seen similar series that are better but it is still an entertaining watch for either the real afficionado (or in contrary people that have not seen a lot of dramas in this genre and will have therefore less fatigue regarding the repetitive side of some scenes).
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6. Single’s Inferno Season 3
Korean TV Show - 2023, 11 episodes
Entertaining but the romantic aspects were weaker, I was rooting for some people to NOT be together
I would still recommend this TV show to people that are looking for a good dating show. If you have liked the previous seasons, this one takes a different turn that might feel more enjoyable (or less if like me you are more interested in romance, angst and pining than in strategy and exploring options).
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7. Kaibutsu
Japanese Movie - 2023
Societal critic supported by a strong cast and impressive storytelling: very deep and impactful!
I would strongly recommend this movie to people looking for a film providing a critic of Japanese society, discussing important topics and very well acted. The ending made a very strong impression on me...I will not spoil it but the message behind it really moved me deeply. There are some triggering aspects to the movie but it is not too graphic, a lot happens in subtext and is understood as the story unfolds itself. If you are looking for some fluff or slice-of-life movie, it is not the film for you. But if you are ready for some great and poignant storytelling, give it a shot!
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8. Dap Saengrawi
Thai Movie - 2023
Movie missed the mark on many aspects, wish it would have taken a much darker road!
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a BL with some horrific elements. It could have been much scarier but it is at least different from usual BL stories. Scenario could as well have been better, the idea and concept is interesting (while a bit crazy in its starting point) but the way it devevelops and the ending felt flat. There are better BL movies out there but if you like Zee and Nunew, it might be worth your time to see them in a very different setting than their previous drama.
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9. My Demon
Korean Drama - 2023, 16 episodes
Eye candy with some splendid visuals but some flaws in writing and pacing (especially in 2nd half)
I would recommend this to people looking for a high production value rom-com with some fantasy elements. Despite some flaws in the writing and pacing (especially in the second half), the casting, directing and filmmaking make it worth it. I was mesmerized by the decors, the clothing and the visuals of both male lead and female lead, they really brought a dreamlike quality to their relationship. If you enjoyed drama as "My Love From The Star", you will likely enjoy this.
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10. Last Twilight
Thai Drama - 2023, 12 episodes
BL addressing captivingly a difficult topic, very memorable moments but wish for different ending
I would recommend this to people looking for a BL story quite deep and which is very healing while approaching a difficult topic. Its treatment of disability feels relatable and real. The acting was solid and despite some minor flaws in the writing and questionable scenaristic choice in the ending, it is very worth the time as it will leave on the viewer a lasting and resounding impression.
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11. Half of Us
Chinese Drama - 2023, 24 episodes
Worth it for amazing Didi Yuan Zhi and high production value, not for the central romance
I would recommend this to people looking for a martial arts historical drama with some fantasy elements, high production value and featuring an interesting family conflict mixed with internal politics. The central romance is not the best aspect of the show but there are some storylines around more "secondary" relationships that are really well done and keep the viewer invested. This series allowed me to discover newcomer Tian Jia Rui who amazed me with his strong screen presence in the role of Didi Gong Yuan Zhi. Just for him, I think it is a really worthwhile watch despite some flaws in the pacing and in the writing, as well as an ending that felt too rushed.
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12. DMD Friendship the Reality
Thai TV Show - 2023, 6 episodes
Cute matchmaking show for DoMunDi TV production to find its next HIT BL pairing *_____*
I will recommend this to people that are looking for a different kind of TV show. It is low budget but very charming. If you like BLs series, it is interesting to witness the creation of new couple pairings.
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13. Komorebi
Taiwanese Movie - 2021
BL Movie with an interesting intention but too short to really captivate me
I would recommend this to people looking for a short BL indie movie. The question approached by the story feel very real and the way it is discussed makes sense. I did not find it very captivating as it was too short to feel connected with the characters. It is of course a very personnal opinion as I think it could really touch the heart of some other viewer. As it is very short, give it a shot ! I enjoyed learning about what Komorebi means.
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14. Sahara-sensei to Toki-kun
Japanese Drama - 2023, 8 episodes
Disappointing, tries to do too much in too little time / do not convey a convincing BL story
I would not recommend this to people as there are better school BL out there. This series had some really nice tropes but completly failed to exploit them. I wish they would take the two same storylines (teacher/ student as well as the other side romance) and make it very gritty and dark...I wish they focus solely on those two relationships and give them enough room to develop and be believable. Anyway, too many wishes...It could have been really special but was rather plain instead.
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15. Innocent Playmates
Chinese Drama - 2023, 24 episodes
Despite frustrating ending + writing flaws, worth it for the butterflies that the romance provides!
I would recommend this to people looking for a Youth BL that really put the focus on developping in a wholesome and believable way the relationship between its main leads. The scenario might be a bit wonky at time as well as the actions of some of the side characters but the main relationships (as well as the two actors acting as leads) is really worth the time invested. Be aware that the ending might be frustrating, but the journey of the romance really offset this point to my eyes.
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16. The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese
Japanese Movie - 2020
Dark mature BL with strong psychological elements, wish it was longer to even better explore those
I would recommend this to people looking for a mature BL story. It is a dark story involving a lot of heavy topics, toxic elements and it can be triggering in the way the relationship forms itself. If you enjoyed this movie, I would strongly advise to give a chance to the manga from which this movie is an adaptation.
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17. Egoist
Japanese Movie - 2022
Despite its undeniable qualities, story did not grab me mainly because of pacing and editing issues
I would recommend this movie to people looking for a realistic life BL. It dives into deep topics (much deeper than what the poster would have left presupposed) and it will for sure not leave the viewer indifferent. Despite its qualities, I cannot omit the fact that the watching experience for me was not the best, as I felt bored at various points and the movie catched my interest concretely almost at the end....Still, I think it is worth to give it a try.
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18. Wu Yu Lun Bi De Ta
Chinese Drama - 2024, 26 episodes
Despite its short length, this series still felt like a loss of time...
I would not recommend this to people as there are much better dramas out there. Even if you are looking for some soap, brainless series to just entertain yourself, there are for sure more fun and better things to watch. It felt like a loss of time, the story was really uninspired, boring and overall badly acted.
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19. Love Supremacy Zone
Korean Drama - 2024, 8 episodes
This drama is like catnip to me <3 Love it !!! I'm emotional thinking back to it...
I would recommend this strongly to people looking for a Youth BL, it is very fluffy but at the same time deeper than it appears. It is an healing watch that will brought you all the feels. If you enjoyed "Our Dating Sim", I really think this one might win you heart as well. It left me with such a lasting impression on me and I will gladly rewatch it <3.
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20. The Blue Hour
Thai Movie - 2015
Not for me...I found it boring and difficult to connect with the story
I would not recommend this to people. Maybe if you are in the right mood or if you are a fan of Gun, it can be interesting to watch it...I also think that a second watch might really help to understand some of the layers of the scenario and better grasp the intentions of the screenwriter. However, even if that is the case, I will likely never watch it a second time because clearly the entertaining factor was totally missing for me...
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21. Grand Guignol
Japanese Movie - 2022
So many issues, grotesque but somewhat entertaining in a confusing way.
I would not recommend this movie because I am very ambivalent about my feelings about it. It is objectively bad on so many aspects but still it is so WTF that it might be worth a watch (?). It is super gruesome and graphic, so if you are squimmish, it is definitely not for you. The scare level is not really there because of the acting and context in which the characters evolve make everything pretty unconvicing.
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22. Mystery to Iunakare
Japanese Drama - 2022, 12 episodes
Despite heavy/manipulative way to handle the life lessons...Still enjoyed some of the cases & hero
I would recommend this to people looking for a mystery formulaic series. If you enjoy drama with kind of "case of the week" stories, you will likely enjoy this. I also think there are a lot of "reflective"/"life lessons" moments that could resonate with the viewer. For me, those were too heavily handed to appreciate all of them and I wish the various episodes had a stronger common thread allowing me to be more investing in the overall story. The show has a relatively open ending, so I will definitely watch the Special Episode...And then maybe the movie to round it up.
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23. Once Upon a Crime
Japanese Movie - 2023
Lack a point of view, too middle-of-the-road screenwriting making it rather bland despite the topic
I would not recommend this movie if you are looking for a darker take on fairy tales. It is really a matter of taste and expectations. Personally, I enjoy a lot Kaori Yuki mangas where she often revisit in a very dark and grim way various fairy tales...I would have wished the movie to take a similar approach. Here, it is more a family movie with a mystery for which I found the resolution pretty clumsy as well.
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24. The Untamed
Chinese Drama - 2019, 50 episodes
Wei Wu Xian and Lan Wang Ji stole a place in my heart ~~~
I would strongly recommend this to people looking for an historical saga splendidly built, with amazing characters and relationship developments as well as some great acting. It is an adaptation of a Chinese BL novel (which I have not read -yet) and despite the censorship in China regarding those, they manage quite successfully to make the viewer understand the subtext behind some of the relationships.
(Feeds Notes while watching: 47-50 + link to other post in spoil comments)
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25. Never Let Me Go
Thai Drama - 2022, 12 episodes
Despite a trope I love, disappointed by the writing, acting and production value...
I would not recommend this to people because there are BLs out there featuring much better that kind of relationship (for example "Where Your Eyes Linger" with also "heir/bodyguard" relationship, or "Utsukushii Kare" for more a "master-servant" bond)...At first, I was full of forgiveness regarding the weaknesses in the production, the choppy editing, as well as the flaws in writing and acting...But it became so nonsensical that even a trope that I usually like very much could not save the drama.
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26. The Living Dead
Chinese Movie - 2019
Not an essential, more a nice side quest to 'The Untamed' series' lore
I would recommend this to people that are missing The Untamed series. If you watch it without any big expectation, it is an easy watch featuring lovable secondary characters from this amazing drama. It does not bring anything new to the universe and original story but it is a quite short and entertaining watch.
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27. Floss
Chinese Movie - 2019
Disturbing: I'm not sure about the what and why, icky but kinda grossly fascinating
I would not recommend this movie as I am so unsure of what to think of it after watching it. It is pretty short so you might want to give it a shot if you like indie movies featuring somewhat obscure and disturbing topic.
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28. The Boy Foretold By The Stars
Filipino Movie - 2020
Uninspired BL movie: banal story + bad acting
I would not recommend this to people as there are much better BL highschool romance out there. It is only the second production from Philippines I watch and I must say that so far, I'm not convinced about what I have seen. I still want to discover more from this country because I think I might just be not lucky so far with my picks.
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29. Kimi to Nara Koi wo Shite Mite mo
Japanese Drama - 2023, 5 episodes
A BL with a quiet and meditative charm...Not very memorable but harmless and sweet
I would recommend this to people looking for a BL with a really appeasing slice-of-life feeling. It depicts a sweet coming-of-age story with a platonic and heartwarming romance in a summery setting. If you are looking for an angsty show with passionate characters and a lot of turmoil, this is really not the series you should watch. But if you are looking for a charming and calming drama, this might be a good pick for you.
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30. My Tooth Your Love
Taiwanese Drama - 2022, 12 episodes
Very disappointed by the writing and pacing, too many secondary couples without substance
I would not recommend this BL as I felt there was pacing issues and the writing was really not strong enough to have interesting elements during the full duration of the drama. There are not enough good ideas and plot points for the length of the series, the screenwriter could have taken some shortcuts on some repetitive developments and focus a bit more of her energy in building one secondary couple (-just one of them) to improve pacing. I enjoyed much more comparatively the two other BLs that I have seen from the same screenwriter Lin Pei Yu (namely "We Best Love" and "Kiseki Dear to Me"): those two were not without flaws in the writing but were really nice to watch despite of it. In the case of "My Tooth Your Love", the acting and the production are not strong enough to compensate the issues in the storylines itself and make it exciting enough.
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31. Amphetamine
Hong Kong Movie - 2010
The script failed in making me understand the characters' choices...and therefore to care about them
I would not recommend this movie to people because it was not an enjoyable watch for me even if I must admit that I will likely remember some scenes for a long time because of a few striking images. Be aware that this movie can be very very triggering, be mindful of the tags if you have any.
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32. Elite League
Korean TV Show - 2023, 8 episodes
An exciting game show that will put your brain on fire in a very entertaining way !!!
I would recommend this to people looking for an entertaining competition show with a lot of mind games and exciting intellectual battles. This show is really all about participating with your skills foremost and your brain power. There is some strategies but no tricks nor manipulation nor hidden alliances...The objective is clearly to prove yourself with your intelligence alone and that's really refreshing overall.
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33. A Frozen Flower
Korean Movie - 2008
Love or lust...Intricate and layered with jealousy, fear, passion and a lot of bad decisions
I would recommend this movie to people looking for an historical movie with a gut-wrenching love story. The romance is really interesting in the dynamics that it explores. I wish the scenario would have spend more time on some aspects of the relationship and I got frustrated by some choices made by some characters...But overall, I was very satisfied by this movie and its ending as well.
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34. Follow The Wind
Korean Drama - 2023, 8 episodes
Beautifully filmed autumnal & sweet BL story
I would recommend this to people looking for a cute BL series with a friends-to-lovers trope as well as in the youth and music genres. It is not super deep or revolutionary but very enjoyable to watch thanks to the amazing filmmaking and fashion. A feast for the eyes with a lot of fluff.
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35. Build Up: Vocal Boy Group Survivor
Korean TV Show - 2024, 10 episodes
Some amazing performances and discoveries among the cast, lost some steam towards the end
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a survival show with some great singers and performances. It is pretty entertaining with a good cast and the concept of forming a vocal group is quite fresh. It lost some steam along the way and production could have done a better job to spread out content and to make the finale more exciting.
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36. Koi wo Suru nara Nidome ga Joto
Japanese Drama - 2024, 6 episodes
Loved the intention of the story, the main actors chemistry...A bit too short to conclude solidly
I would recommend this to people looking for an adult BL story, which manage to bring together an innocent youth love with a mature romance when they reunite. It is a bit of shame that the last conflict and the conclusion are less solid than the introduction and middle part of the series but it is overall a very enjoyable watch.
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37. Jazz for Two
Korean Drama - 2024, 8 episodes
Not enough screentime for interesting elements + subpar acting: underwhelming overall
I would not recommend this to people as there are better BL in high school out there. There are a few moments that are cute (mainly relating to the friendship building between two characters rather than the romantic relationships), as well as some elements that could have been super interesting if more developed and better acted. However, the numerous flaws in terms of scenario, acting and production (especially of the music scenes) make it a series that I would not recommend.
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38. Painted Skin
Chinese Movie - 2020
Short fantasy movie super impactful, left me with a deep lasting impression
I would recommend this to people looking for a short wuxia / fantasy movie. Given the way it manages to convey so much in so little time, it is totally worth taking the time giving a shot to this gut-wrenching tale. The story is so interesting and has so much potential that I cannot help to wish that it would have been a full length duration movie.
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39. Decibel
Korean Movie - 2022
Too bad the storytelling around the stakes and the editing hindered my enjoyement
I would not necessarily recommend this to people as I did not particularily enjoyed my watch. My main issue with the film is coming from the scenario and the way the story is building up the characters. I did not manage to engage with the main roles and in an action movie, rooting for the good guys and understanding from where they are coming from is critical to really get me invested and care about the story. Here, I started to care much too late and felt that the 2/3 of the movie was not as exciting as I would have wished.
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40. Twinkling Watermelon
Korean Drama - 2023, 16 episodes
A beautiful journey to heal yourself thanks to music, brotherhood and 1990's vibe
I would recommend this to people looking for a very solid youth drama set in the 1990's. If you enjoyed movies like "Back to the Future" and dramas such as the "Reply" series, you will for sure immensely enjoy it! If you are a fan of musical genre shows, this one is also clearly made for you. I personnally really loved it despite some issues with the pacing of the script and the way I would have liked a bit more development on some elements, especially towards the ending.
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41. Actor:eal
Korean Drama - 2024, 2 episodes
Really interesting idea but unfortunately not enough time to exploit it
I would recommend this to people looking for a short BL, as it manages to express a lot in a small amount of time. I wish it would have been longer and I like the questioning that the drama opens and on which the viewer can only ponder: is it acting or it it real ?
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42. Unknown
Taiwanese Drama - 2024, 12 episodes
"Don't be afraid of the cracks. That's where the light comes in."
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a forbidden romance concept with a lot of angst and chemistry. I watched it week by week but I think it would make an excellent binge watch. The script is not without flaws in terms of pacing as well as narrative choices but overall the payoff in terms of love story is so good that it is really worth it and you forgot all the defaults thanks to the good acting and chemistry of the two main male leads.
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43. Always
Korean Movie - 2011
Memorable melodramatic love story with great cast and filmmaking
I would recommend this to people looking for a good romantic story full of turmoil and emotion as it is centered arount the encounter of two broken-by-life human beings. The story in itself is not without flaws but is quite poetic and the sincere performances of the two main leads brought up to a higher level the scenario.
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44. Untitled Park Ji Eun Project
Korean Drama - 2024, 16 episodes
Despite writing flaws, swoon-worthy romance with a touch of sorrow carried by super strong cast
I would recommend this to people looking for an emotional love story. Given the episodes length, It is quite an investment in terms of time and there are some issues with the writing in the second half of the series. However, despite its flaws, I truly enjoyed the drama thanks to the incredible acting, great OST and iconic romantic scenes.If you loved other dramas from this writer (such as My Love From Another Star and Crash Landing on You), you are in known territory and should like it as well.
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45. Wuliang
Chinese Movie - 2020
A lot of interesting ideas but not enough time to develop them
I would recommend this movie to people that are looking for a short wuxia movie. If you need a bite-size watch, this is clearly a good choice if you do not expect too much from it. In the same vein, I liked (even better) "Painted Skin: The Guo Jingming Edition", so if you enjoyed that one, you might want to give "Wuliang" a shot.
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46. Gray Currents
Korean Drama - 2024, 5 episodes
How to escape toxicity and self-loathing in the midst of (b)romance
I would recommend this to people looking for a more serious BL story. Rather than being about a romance, it is more a bromance to me and what makes it really worth it is its realistic and nuanced ending. I wish there had been more time to develop the romance but I appreciated the overall take of the scenario regarding the evolution of the characters.
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47. Have Soft Spot For Her
Chinese Drama - 2024, 20 episodes
Sinked because of poor editing & writing, despite steamy looks of hot ML
I would not recommend this to people as I feel the series fell apart mid-way through. The most exciting part of the drama can be seen in the intro generic, so honestly if you watch it, you have seen the best of what the show has to offer. I did not mind the choice they made regarding the romance, it was interesting but what was really disturbing is the way it was edited with the couple of last episodes coming back on past elements of the story.
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48. Todome no Kiss
Japanese Drama - 2018, 10 episodes
Yamazaki Kento shines so much as an anti-hero host! Great concept solidly acted!
I would recommend this to people looking for a drama that will take you on a journey alongside its (anti-)hero. It mixes genres well with supernatural, thriller and romance elements.The acting is very solid with some passionate and captivating moments. There are some loopholes and the ending would have benefited from more time but I honestly found the watch incredibly rewarding with a lot of emotional payoff.
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49. My Lover Like Cherry Blossoms
Japanese Movie - 2022
Uncanny feeling after watching it
I would not recommend this to people as it was not an enjoyable watching experience to me. As explained, it might be a case of me not being in the right mindset when watching it but I really was unable to connect with the story and to feel invested into the romance.
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50. Nizi Project Season 3
Japanese TV Show - 2023, 10 episodes
I binge watched it: ready to dive into Part2 for my favorite participant and a few others <3
I would recommend this to people that enjoy boy group survival shows. There are no evil editing between the candidates and overall I found the participants quite likeable and driven. Not all, but enough candidates spark my interests thanks to their performances, and I feel it is always fun and motivational to witness the progress of young people trying to do their best and honing their skills. Show was a bit formulaic with some repetition in the songs but still it is pretty enjoyable.
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51. Club Nexz
Korean TV Show - 2024, 6 episodes
Lovable rookie pre-debut reality show ~ Super fun & cute, with some emotional moments !
I strongly recommend this to people that enjoy idol programs. It is super fun to follow and even if you have not watched their survival program, it is very good at introducing the boys and their dynamics. The editing and production are really good, you feel they had some budget to film the various missions which are all very different. It is on par with similar experienced idol groups shows (such as SKZ code with Stray Kids, To Do with TXT, En-O'clock with Enhypen to name a few). If you have enjoyed any of those, I am pretty sure you will enjoy Club NEXZ. My only regret is that it is too short and I would have loved to have more episodes.
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52. Concrete Utopia
Korean Movie - 2023
How to rebuild Society from scratch / the turmoil of human nature...
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a thrilling survival movie. It is pretty griping with a lot of intensity and quite frightening moments as the more obscure side of human nature unveil itself. If you enjoyed drama such as Happiness, this one is for you.
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53. Don't Call it Mystery: The Movie
Japanese Movie - 2023
Way too predictable mystery, same flaws as the series but beautiful context + location
I would recommend this to people that loved the drama Don't call it Mystery. The qualities and flaws are consistent between both series and film. Therefore, if you enjoyed the drama, you will likely enjoy the movie as well. On the contrary, if like myself you had already lukewarm feelings for the drama, the film will definitely not change your mind.
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54. Roommates
Korean Drama - 2024, 8 episodes
Flawed in terms of romance but some elements of the story resonated with me...
I would recommend this to people looking for a BL in a college set up. It is a bit unbalanced in the way it approaches some topics: it feel sometimes deep on some aspects as well as totally unrealistic on some others. Despite its flaws, it is still a nice watch...I just would have loved for it to leave me with a more durable impression.
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55. Silent Love
Japanese Movie - 2024
So much more than a romance: poetic and beautifully filmed <3
I would strongly recommend this to people looking for a deeply romantic and lyrical tale. Do not expect sweet and fluffy romance here, that is not the point of the story. It is for sure highly rewatchable for the acting and cinematography itself that bring out the best of this poetic and gut-wrenching story full of sensibility.
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56. Possession
Korean Movie - 2023
A "no-brain-required" movie that succeed where the drama "Island" failed
I would recommend this to people looking for an entertaining fantasy movie. The horror level is quite limited, there are some scare frights but overall nothing too gruesome. If you enjoyed series like the western show "Supernatural" or even "Island" South Korean drama (which was a real disappointment to me), you might really enjoy this. In my opinion, it is what should have been "Island": entertaining, not taking itself too seriously despite featuring quite dark spirits and power in the story... It is more a "B" movie, you will not left it with a super deep impression (especially if you have already seen / read a few pieces in that genre) but it is an overall good watch.
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57. Ungnami
Korean Movie - 2023
Caricatural action movie very predictable despite intriguing start
I would not recommend this to people unless you are ready to leave your brain on off for the duration of the film as well as to use of lot of suspension of disbelief, then you might enjoy yourself. However, I feel there are better no brain required action movie out there...Even if the premise of the story was interesting, it missed the mark for me in terms of what it was trying to convey as well as in mixing tones. Indeed, it oscillated between comedy and noir movie, which really did not mash up well together.
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58. Let's Go Karaoke!
Japanese Movie - 2024
Truly entertaining : a combo of a bit crazy plot, outlandish humor and feelings that worked for me.
I would recommend this to people that enjoy music and/or coming-of-age movie. If you are an aficionado of karaoke, it will for sure bring you up some memories. In overall, it is a good comedy around an atypical mentor-mentee relationship.
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59. Todome no Parallel
Japanese Drama - 2018, 10 episodes
At least watch episode 10! That sole episode is a sweet epilogue to Todome no Kiss <3
I would recommend this to people that have seen and liked "Todome no Kiss". Of course, if you have not seen the parent series, you will not be able to understand a thing (and you will spoil yourself), as the episodes are really focused on parallel stories at several points of the scenario from the main show. If you don't want to spend time watching this, I will still strongly recommend to watch only episode 10 which is an epilogue to the main story and brought me warm feelings as it is a sweet conclusion to the main series. I wish they had included it in the main series for everyone to see it.
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60. Seventeen's One Fine Day
Korean TV Show - 2016, 9 episodes
Seventeen casted away on an island and goofing around while trying to survive! So fun!
I would recommend this to people that love Seventeen. If you are a fan of the group, I feel this is a must-see as it showcases so well their group dynamics as well as their resilience. I was super impressed by how they manage to make lemonade from quite sour lemons...It is some bright and inspirational content for sure...And it is Seventeen...So it is just super fun and will brighten your mood without a doubt.
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61. 25 Ji, Akasaka de
Japanese Drama - 2024, 10 episodes
Underwhelming overall... Disappointing as I expected more given the meta aspect of the story
I would not recommend this to people as they are more interesting BLs out there. The premise is quite similar to "BL Drama no Shuen ni Narimashita: Crank Up Hen" (which I overall liked). I therefore expected to enjoy "25 Ji, Akasaka de". Unfortunately, rather than providing a more mature take on the "BL actors falling in love with each other" trope, it featured a super slow and boring story, with miscommunication / non-communication being the focus point of the relationship. I would suggest to watch "BL Drama no Shuen ni Narimashita: Crank Up Hen" rather than this one.
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62. Similar
Korean Movie - 2022
Well-acted & filmed, interesting story twist but wished for more in terms of relationships
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a youthful romantic movie mixing different timelines, with a nice 1999 nostalgia throwback. The acting and filmmaking is pretty great and even if I have some details that could have been better regarding the story (or at least the development of some of the relationship), I still found it to be a lovely watch with a nice twist.
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63. Only the River Flows
Chinese Movie - 2023
Artsy and unfathomable Chinese thriller - will leave you pondering
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a thriller supported by good filmmaking and acting. It features rural China in the 1990s and is quite dark with the scenario deeply rooted in exploring the darkest aspects of people in small town. If you enjoyed series like "Mare of Easttown", you will likely enjoy it. However, there is a part of frustration bounded to the resolution of the mystery as it left a lot to the viewer's interpretation.
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64. Nizi Project Season 2: Part 2
Japanese TV Show - 2023, 10 episodes
Not surprised by the end result & satisfied! Impressed by growth spurt & evolution of some trainees
I will recommend this to people that have seen Part 1 of course. It is better than Part 1 on many aspects as you focus on a smaller set of individuals and get to know them better. Their growth in terms of skills is truly impressive, there are very likeable. The angst is overall low, with no evil editing. It can feel a bit repetitive at time in the way they build stories around the challenges...I still found it entertaining and I will be for sure following the group that came out from the show as I found their dynamic refreshing and want to keep following their evolution.
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65. His Man Season 3
Korean TV Show - 2024, 14 episodes
It will not replace His Man S2 in my heart but honestly truly enjoyed the wild ride and messiness
I would recommend this to people that love dating shows. If you enjoyed the previous seasons of His Man, you will probably enjoy it. The mechanics stays the same (with minor changes: some exciting, some useless) with also a bit more of production / editing choices to keep things interesting. The main failure of the season relies in the questionable decision the production team made regarding the epilogue of the series. My advice: watch episode 1 to 13 which takes you on a highly bingeable and messy journey, providing a fluffy and sometimes dramatic story; and don't watch the episode 14 which does not bring any value to the series and can lead to some unnecessary frustration.
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66. Perfect Days
Japanese Movie - 2023
Memorable slice-of-life story, beautifully acted and filmed
I would recommend this movie to people that enjoy slice-of-life genre and introspection. It is a very chill film in its pace, very simple in its story and therefore which might not please everyone. That said, the poetry that pores through this slice-of-life story, the fact that I got so attached to the main protagonist as well as the beautiful filmmaking featuring stunning shots of Tokyo (and more precisely Sumida) make it for me an excellent discovery really worth the watch.
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67. Kakegurui
Japanese Drama - 2018, 10 episodes
Angsty and fun in an over-the-top way, I wanted more regarding the characters storylines
I will recommend this to people that enjoy mind games stories. If you do not mind some overacting and just want a short and entertaining series featuring in a very Shonen-way gambling matches between highschoolers, you will enjoy this. This first season is clearly just an adaptation of an arc of a manga. I will probably be watching the sequels to get to a more conclusive ending...But not immediately as I am satisfied where we left of. I just regret that there are not much in terms of characters relationships evolution and that it is quite predictable.
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68. Weather Forecast Love
Korean Drama - 2023, 8 episodes
Liked the insomnia / sleeping concept, they should have exploited it more
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a short and sweet BL in a university setting with some sport element. It is cute but not really memorable and I think they could have done better in terms of chemistry as well as exploiting the insomnia/sleeping concept that led to some charming scenes.
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69. Kieta Hatsukoi
Japanese Drama - 2021, 10 episodes
Enjoyed the high school friendship part, not fully convinced by the romance and its evolution
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a Japanese BL high school series. The scenario is very reminiscent of classical high school Shojo manga storylines, so if you are familiar with and enjoy those, this drama will likely be a comfort and comfy watch for you as it was for me. Even though I have some nitpicking regarding the pace of the romance and its evolution, I still enjoyed the watch.
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70. Wandee Goodday
Thai Drama - 2024, 12 episodes
Vanilla despite what the script tried to convey...I got bored halfway through it
I would not recommend this to people as there are better BL out there. The beginning was very entertaining but it got very boring. I can't help to hope that the production made other directing choices and that the writing would have been better. I think that a darker and mature version of the story where a doctor falls in love with a boxer would have been more exciting.
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71. Pit Babe: Uncut
Thai Drama - 2023, 13 episodes
Sometimes entertaining but missed the mark completely in terms of writing
I would not recommend this to people unless you already know/like the "Omegaverse" genre/concept. It missed the mark for me because I don't know anything about it and even after watching the series, I'm still totally perplexed. I must admit though that there were some entertaining parts to the overall trainwreck provided by the series and I will probably try to watch season 2 by curiosity...Hoping for the writing, filmmaking, soundtrack and acting to be better now that they have soft-launched the "Omegaverse" in Thai dramas.
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72. The Sign
Thai Drama - 2023, 12 episodes
Really lackluster, I was so bored by the end of it with the anticlimactic scenario
I will not recommend this to people as I was pretty bored for most of the drama. The mediocre scenario and acting, as well as the anticlimactic ending totally brought down my enjoyment of the series which missed the mark on the compelling elements that could have been developed. Indeed, there are too many things I wish would have been done differently especially on the fantasy aspects of the story. I would have loved the focus to go there and not on tedious and amateurish investigation.
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73. Love Sea
Thai Drama - 2024, 10 episodes
Poor writing, not so good acting but entertaining for the chemistry and seaside background
I would not recommend this to people unless you are a fan of MAME work. It has for sure entertaining value and the two males leads have a good chemistry. However, the script is really poor in the way it pictures trauma and how the characters evolve through the relationship. There are a lot of artificial barriers to their love and therefore the series felt lacking because of the writing. It is even worse regarding the secondary couple arc.
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74. Unlocked
Korean Movie - 2023
Creepy cautionary tale about smartphone power, quite thrilling despite some scenario flaws
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a thriller supported by good acting. It is pretty horrific in some way as it is centered around a very prominent feature in most humans modern life: the smartphones. It is a quite violent movie, so be mindful if you have any trigger.
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75. Midnight
Korean Movie - 2021
Frightening chase, Wi Ha Joon amazing performance shook me
I would recommend this to people looking for a thriller that will brought you all the feels in a very short time. It is very dark and efficient in providing thrills with some good jump scares and action sequences. It might require some suspension of disbelief given the reaction of some characters that might seem completely stupid. But, honestly that did not bother me because I found the story gripping enough to not care about the script flaws. I just went on a scary ride and enjoyed it for what it was.
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76. The Divine Fury
Korean Movie - 2019
How is it possible for an horror movie to feel so boring ? Cast could not save it
I would not recommend this movie to people unlike you are really a big fan of one of the main actors. If you are an avid fan of horror movie, you might like it but honestly because of its very generic story and strange pacing, I don't think it is worth the watch.
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77. Just Friends?
Korean Movie - 2009
Too short but still worth it for the interesting context and the cast
I would recommend this movie to people looking for an indie BL short movie. It approaches love between men within the mandatory military context in Korea, which is not a very common topic. It felt unfortunately a bit short in terms of storyline and what it is trying to say, mainly because of its short length format. Still, given its short duration, it is worth giving it a shot, especially if you want to see performances of Yeon Woo Jin and Lee Je Hoon at the beginning of their career.
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78. Hidamari ga Kikoeru
Japanese Drama - 2024, 12 episodes
A touching slice-of-life, more oriented towards friendship and growth than romance
I would recommend this to people looking for a tender slice-of-life japanese drama. Rather than a BL, it is a story about finding your path and opening yourself to others while seeing world in a different light. I sometimes found myself wishing that the writer either removed all the romantic aspects to spend more time on the healing and friendship parts of the story, either went all in on the romance and make it much more heart-fluttering. I liked it a lot but I would clearly not have minded to have more episodes to further expand on the future of the main characters.
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79. The Pirates
Korean Movie - 2014
Strangely paced "Pirates of the Caribbean meets Robin Hood" story - underwhelming
I would recommend this movie despite its flaws because I think it might be a case of "it's not you; it's me". If you enjoy adventure movie, you might want to give it a shot for yourself. I did not find it that entertaining because of the pacing issue but I'm not regretting watching it. I will also be curious to have a look at the sequel. I was disappointed by the resolution and ending but I truly appreciated the acting as well as the action scenes.
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80. Apartment 404
Korean TV Show - 2024, 8 episodes
Not my type of show but I learnt interesting stuff, pace of stories could have been better
I would recommend this to people that enjoy Mystery Variety show concept. If you are fan from one of the member of the cast or if you are interested by miscalleneous news items you might also want to give it a shot despite its shortcomings (repetitive mecanics as well as relatively bad pacing of the episodes).
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81. His Man Season 2: Boy's Trip
Korean TV Show - 2024, 6 episodes
Fun and cute travel short show to see again the cast of His Man Season 2
I would recommend this to people that enjoyed His Man Season 2. Do not expect anything deep, just fun fluff moments between the cast members with not a lot of production. The friendship between the participants feels real, cute and wholesome.
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82. Dawn Is Breaking
Chinese Drama - 2024, 30 episodes
Average but entertaining, I was there for the hot moments between the leads but not much else
I would not necessarily recommend this to people as I feel there are too many issues to really warrant a watch. There are some exciting and hot moments between the leads but it cannot save the drama from its writing and editing issues. I feel that the format of 20 minutes episodes was not exploited properly, the numerous events faced by the characters in quick succession made it both entertaining but also completly nonsensical. To be noted: a couple of points of some of the storylines can be triggering so be mindful of the tags if you have any triggers.
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83. Hwayi: A Monster Boy
Korean Movie - 2013
One of the best watch of the year: dark, gripping in the best way
I truly recommend this to people that are looking for a dark action movie that will take you on a thrilling journey with its main character. The psychological elements behind the characters actions and bonds between them are disturbingly captivating and pretty memorable. It is very violent and dark, so if you have any triggers, of course proceed with caution.
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84. Happy of the End
Japanese Drama - 2024, 8 episodes
Raw, brutal, horrific and proof that beauty can be found in the darkest place
I would recommend this drama to people that are looking for a dark story. Be mindful of the triggers, there are a lot of abuse, violence. It is a super impactful story, not necessarily that rewatchable to me because of how gut-wrenching it is. You need to be strong to go through the horror but at the same time the moments of beauty and love that can be found are worth the brutal journey.
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85. The Vampire Lives Next Door To Us
Korean Movie - 2015
Dark and murky story, wish it would have been more fleshed out
I would recommend this to people that are looking for an horrific short movie. It is in the realm of horrow but not frightening. It provides an interesting point of view on the vampire myth as well.
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86. Rerun
Thai Movie - 2023
Artsy and sincere story
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a short movie with some artsy and indie vibe. If you are a fan of PP Krit, this is a must watch (coupled as well with the MV of the song itself). The scenario is not revolutionnary in itself and I wish they went deeper on some elements but it is enough in conveying emotions.
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87. Napat
Thai Movie - 2021
8 minutes short film to bring awareness on discrimination faced by LGBTQIA+ people
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a short movie with a point of view. It is a project run by the Thai Transgender Human Rights Foundation aiming to foster awareness on various issues still faced today by people belonging to LGBTQIA+ community. I feel they managed to reach their objective in only 8 minutes which is an achievement in itself.
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88. Lipstick
Korean Movie - 2019
Brief and intense, sadly poetic and in memory of Yook Woo Dang
I would recommend this to people looking for an impactful and beautifully gut-wrenching short film. It is very worth 12 minutes of your time. If you have any trigger, be mindful of the tags as it is a pretty sad and brutal story approaching very sensible topics in a mindful and purposeful way.
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89. Mom’s Friend’s Son
Korean Drama - 2024, 16 episodes
Enjoyed the ride but will not make it into my top favorites rom-com if I'm honest
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a rom-com with substance and good acting. If you enjoy slice-of-life stories, this might as well be a good fit for you. It is more heavy in terms of topics it approaches than the poster and title would left supposed. So if you are looking for simple fluff and light romance, it might not necessarily the one to pick. In my opinion, it is definitely worth a try despite some weaknesses in the writing.
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90. Unknown Chefs
Korean TV Show - 2024, 12 episodes
A new form of delightful torture when you are watching it hungry
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a refreshing take on competition / survival cooking show. The food is simply mouthwatering so be careful to have some food at home when you watch it (or be prepared to be delightfully tortured). I hope they make a season 2 with hopefully some new ideas to keep the concept interesting without repetition.
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91. Someday or One Day
Taiwanese Drama - 2019, 13 episodes
Dramatic & angsty romance with fantastical twist that got me hooked despite filmmaking limitation
I would recommend this to people looking for a captivating and quite dramatic romance with a fantastical twist. There is some minor writing points that I would love to be improved and I also wish they had a bigger budget for some of the sequences. But despite these few nitpicking points, it is really worth your time and will take you on an emotional and mysterious journey. I will be curious to give a shot to the other remakes of the story at some point.
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92. Annarasumanara
Korean Drama - 2022, 6 episodes
Enchanting tale, beautifully filmed and acted with a strong message despite some flaws in writing
I would recommend this to people that are looking for magical tale with a tad of mystery. If you enjoy Disney animated movie, musicals pieces of cinema such as La La Land or The Greatest Showman, or even if you have some affinity for the Peter Pan fairytale, I would strongly advice you give a shot to this atypical drama.
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93. The Time of Fever
Korean Drama - 2024, 6 episodes
Hyung concept brought up a very savory flavor to the romance and made my heart flutters
I would recommend this to people that are looking for BL with a well executed childhood friends-to-lovers trope. Chemistry and story was good and overall 6 episodes are highly bingeable (which is expected with the original format being a movie).
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94. Love in the Big City
Korean Drama - 2024, 8 episodes
Queer chronicles of a gay guy living and loving in the big city of Seoul : a raw and poetic journey
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a different kind of BL story. It is more of a chronicle of a life rather than a standard romance. Of course, I have nothing against fluffy and butterflies romance or angsty tales of passion but here it is a different proposal both in terms of content as well as storytelling. The good writing, the very deep topics relating to what's happening in real life as well as the interesting arc of the main character arc strongly resonated with me and make it worth your time. If you enjoy BL such as 'I Told Sunset About You' and 'The Eighth Sense', I think you should give it a shot.
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95. Road to Kingdom Season 2
Korean TV Show - 2024, 8 episodes
Really suffered from the comparison with Road To Kingdom S1 and from lackluster storytelling
I will recommend this to people that are avid fan of KPOP because despite all the flaws I found in it, it still features teams that I found interesting to discover and also because I am still hopeful that Kingdom War Season 2 which will follow up will drastically raise the bar and correct the flaws of Road To Kingdom Season 2. Maybe once again, I am excepting too much from this type of TV Show but I want to believe that we can see again iconic performances carried by emblematic groups and that it was not an anomaly to have that quality (in terms of way the cast is featured and production value) linked to the fact of the first seasons of 2020 and 2021 being done during COVID time when the idols, producing crew and staff had much more means and time to participate and go all in.
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96. The Library
Thai Movie - 2013
Heartbreaking and painful watch
I would recommend this to people that are looking for a short movie featuring a rather melodramatic story in a library setting. Personally I found it quite painful to watch but well done for what it is trying to say.
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97. All About My Wife
Korean Movie - 2012
I did not exactly like it "per se" but I found it interesting
I would recommend this to people looking for a dark comedy. It is for sure not a fluffy romance and there are a lot of absurd moments that are a bit strange because of the shift in tones given the intention of the story. Despite its flaws, it has an interesting premise, so I think it is worth a watch.
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98. The Story of Mystics
Chinese Drama - 2024, 34 episodes
A feast for the eyes, epic tale not without flaws but worth it for the journey it will take you on
I would recommend this to people looking for a Chinese Wuxia drama with a super strong cinematographic vision and high production value, good acting and gripping story featuring different kind of love. Shift in tone was a bit unbalanced at first and introduction arc could have been better paced, but once the set up of the relationships between the characters is done, you are in for a captivating journey that will tug at your heartstrings.
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99. Fangs of Fortune Special
Chinese Special - 2024, 1 episode
An absolute must watch after Fangs of Fortune
I would recommend this of course to people that have watched Fangs of Fortune. It has the same qualities in terms of visual impact, majesty of the sets and costumes, solid acting performances as the main series since it is its continuation and ending.
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100. Date
Filipino Special - 2017, 1 episode
A 2 minutes Jollibee ad - too short for me to care
I would not recommend this to people, I did not get a lot from it. Unless you are looking at it for completing a challenge, then it is just 2 minutes of your time...