2022 watchlist

My comfort show, started at the end of 2021 and finished in 2022. Thanks to these two clowns I was able to cope with the stressful exam period. Will definitely never forget their story. This series destroyed stereotypes and toxicity in full score. It portrayed realistic characters and a simple yet well-structured story with a lovable acting cast. Chemistry, cinematography, sceneries, and music were all more than pleasing. I am grateful for each Friday evening I could witness Pat's and Pran's journey. Well played GMM, well played. Will miss them so much.

challenge tag:  fav TH actor

Pretty average detective drama with an interesting plot twist and a great acting cast. Again, it was visible that Sho really enjoys portraying detectives. He suited the role very much. And Hirose can actually act without being cringe when she gets a well-written script. I was positively surprised that she did not annoy me at all. The only issue with this drama is that it gets interesting mainly at the end - the last 4 eps. They should have developed the genome editing topic in more depth. Idk but lately many jdramas ends with rushed closure and this was the same case. Anyway, I am glad I waited a year for proper subs so I could marathon it. A nice bonus was the funny bromance of the policemen duo.

challenge tag: Sho's drama

Watched it out of curiosity...well just to almost all the characters getting on my nerves. FL was probably the most idiotic, simple, stupid... but then her questioning her life made me kinda sympathise with her. If only the boy was at least 18...This drama was so sick in many aspects and I don't want to mention it. The only chef kiss thing about this project is the beautiful cinematography that is rarely seen in most current J-dramas...it was poetic and aesthetically pleasing. And also the way the plot was developed and how the story was built was fresh too. Moreover, the acting was great as well. Also, I loved how the main story was intertwined with the story of the mentioned film in the drama. 

Note that this drama is not for everyone, not for people without critical thinking.

challenge tag: age gap 

Touching yet realistic story of "common" heroes and their love for their job and nation. Their sacrifice saved a lot of lives and this film calls us to remember them. Even though I usually don't like this genre I would appreciate adding information about technical stuff.

challenge tag: historical, political

Cute collaboration between JPN and TH. I loved Mone's and Bank's interaction and lovely sceneries - be it historical temples or the nature of southern Japan. The story can be educational for kids mainly. My biggest issue was annoying eng dub.

Touching and anime-like drama about chasing dreams, supporting friendship, pure bromance and self-growth. At the time of its airing, it must have been a huge inspiration for the teens. The bonds and friendship between delinquents doing tumbling definitely ruined some stereotypes back in 2011. Watched it for the legendary acting cast (Yusuke Yamamoto, Seto Koji, Nissy ♥) and it is considered one of the classic dramas.  The acting was a bit overreacted, fashion well the 2010ish  but so was the style in that times. Still, the message that stereotypes should be broken, people can change for the better and friendships kept no matter what and that hard work pays off would always speak to any audience.

challenge tag: bromance

Ok, this was just a nice recapitulation of both seasons with a few "cute" scenes and oh yes we got that bromance hug lololol. Totally NOT worth the hyyyype.

Watched this for an interesting acting cast and intriguing trailer. However, the story was too "drama" for me, and could not really get into the characters' stories. Besides a few thrilling plot twists, I don't consider this series that great. The main anti-heroine was the most interesting character of all and the actress nailed her role. I must say Drake's acting in this was the best and he deserves the main dramatic role asap.

challenge tag: about adults

Very much needed and informative drama, not only for teens (:

challenge tag:  school, youth

Once again, GMM cant close or finish their projects properly. Promising awesome plot, finally some thrill and suspense, great acting, well-portrayed themes of today's society,  awesome camera work and stunning sceneries. But how the hell can they rob us of 2 episodes and just shamelessly show such an ending? This is so unprofessional and unfair to both actors and viewers. Idk how to process the whole awesome drama with a meh half-assed ending.  I really believed this one would be a break from copy past format but no... What I really must praise is the portrayal of the relationship between twin brothers and the theme of borrowed identity. It was so well depicted. Also, the social issues in current Thai society were shown in a realistic light and made me think a lot.

challenge tag: mystery, thriller 

It was a long time since I saw a well-portrayed and well-acted psycho drama. The story had indeed some fallbacks as it seemed a bit slow-paced. Idk if this is only me, but Koreans always make the eps unnecessary long and therefore the thrill was lost in some parts. However, the acting cast was brilliant, they portrayed psycho characters very realistically. I enjoyed symbolism either in their behaviour or either in the themes that the drama depicted. For example the depiction of the depressing sharehouse and the change of the main character's anger issues and paranoia. Or that characters in some way symbolised seven deadly sins. Moving on,  camera work was also awesome and all OSTs totally got under my skin. The open ending makes you wonder about several options that could have happened and an attentive viewer is able to connect the dots. All in all, this was a very decent psychological drama with horror and mystery features.

challenge tag: horror

This drama was weird but really nice, funny and unique. It really felt like anime came to life. All the characters were hilarious and the witty plot made me interested from the beginning till the end. The ending was a kind of plot twist that added space for speculations. Special kudos to fabulous Yuki Yamada, he really put all he got into his acting. Nobody could make sensei bring to life better than him. I am not easily amused but he did it so easily whenever he appeared on the screen. I really love that guy.  It was a long time since I watched a good comedy and this short drama was fresh air to end my stressful days during the winter semester.

challenge tag: comedy

The story of this drama revolves around a couple with a rare problem in their sexual life which influences their relationship with each other as well as with people around them. Even though it was about an intimate or rather taboo topic, it was not vulgar. The way or their choice of how to deal with the problem might not be the best but that might be the message for the viewers. It was a nice and fast pass-time drama.

What a lovely nostalgic ride this was, I enjoyed the Thai version a lot, mostly because of a great cast and a lot of improvements to the toxic features of the original plot. I like that the story got a new "dress" and was told in a new way but still was able to do justice to the original work. The family bonds, FL character growth, friendship between F4 boys and the topic of current youth society were my favourite part of the project. Also, the songs were pretty nice. The only minus is not efficient relationship development between all the pairs and delulu BW shippers ruining the fandom... The open ending is maybe implying a possibility for the 2nd season in the future?

challenge tag: adapted from the manga

Ah, it seemed promising but the trope about body switching between the siblings did not really work with me the way I wished. I wanted to enjoy this one more but quite a lot of things bugged me - e.g. mom's behaviour and the annoying character of Win. I enjoyed beautiful nature sceneries and comedy scenes the most. 

Gmm produced another clownery. The drama scenes made me cringe a lot. I am kind of sorry for Win that it was his 1st solo work outside BL. For some reason, the only character I liked was Inn and I wished she went abroad and started her successful life alone. 

Finally some great suspense drama. At first, I thought it would be another slow and tedious family drama but it turned out to be a rather thrilling story of complicated family relationships in modern society. The acting cast was brilliant, I am pleased to see Mikako Tabe on screen again with Nino. About Nino, I bet he put his new father experience into this role to portray Hiroto this believably. To mention the plot, for the first 8 eps I was really hooked on it. However, I don't know why this is some trend or what but again, the strong promising plot was finished weakly and at a rushed pace. And the whole core of the problem of the preparator of crimes did not seem realistic which disappointed me quite a lot. Overall, the message of the drama is great and worth watching.

The drama is based on the famous novel by Ishiguro. As I have read the novel I really enjoyed this adaptation and the way they told the story. Some things were added, some changed and some omitted but the strong author's message was still conveyed. Being a fan of the dystopian genre and moreover, with the topic of various ethical questions, I dearly loved the story, even though it was a tragic one. The acting cast was brilliantly chosen and also the setting really had the vibes of the novel. The only issue I had was how the character of Tomo was written. I don't understand why they made him this naive and childish. Also, the character of Miwa was too cunning and egocentric in the drama but I bet it was for the sake of suspense. All in all, I would consider this drama to be a must-watch if you are a fan of Japanese melodramas.

This documentary is a true gem. Toma shares his passion, love and respect for kabuki and his acting profession. We get to see him talk about his work, and his motivation but also doubts while being supported by his close friends and colleagues. Once again, it made me realise how much love Toma puts into his work and also into his relationships with others. And much more love is given to him back. During watching it I felt delighted for Toma, that his hard work paid off and his dream came true. The documentary also provided interesting information and insight into the mysterious world of kabuki actors. As a theatre lover, I really enjoyed all the information provided. Behind the scenes from the practice realistically introduced all the hardships that kabuki actors have to face before getting on the stage. One could feel their love and pride for tradition and Japanese culture. They all put their hearts and souls into their work.
Finally, as a Toma fan, I am so proud to see him getting such an honour to be part of this stage play.

challenge tag: documentary

This drama was so comforting, like a warm hug... It speaks to the soul of the viewer. I highly recommend watching it when looking for a beautiful and peaceful slice of life melodrama with deep messages. Mainly for people who are suffering from the loss of a beloved one this drama can be therapeutic. But anyone can find something meaningful and beautiful in the story. Yes, the topic of death is very delicate and personal but this drama depicts it with such love and respect that it keeps the audience thinking a lot but in a healing and relaxing manner.  

WOW just WOW

this drama holds my heart and soul

Very beautiful fantasy musical drama.  This was a simple yet powerful story full of magic, lovely music and deep messages about life. Great for relaxing the mind and pleasing the soul. The leading actress was wonderful at delivering her role. Her story would take you to another world but still make you think about your real life... and make one fall in love with the magic that is in this world all around us. 

challenge tag:  musical

This drama is probably the best one I watched this year...it spoke to me on so many personal levels...I really appreciate the representation and issues it spoke about. MORE projects like this, aro ace people deserve to be seen and represented! The media needs to address them properly. The leading actor and actress did a wonderful job portraying aro ace people... Big applause for them.

This one had a promising acting cast, and potential in some cases... mystery genre fan like me did not really enjoy this drama. Not even Toma's cameos could not make me interested more in the story. I found the majority of cases boring, the narration too plain and could not really get to like any of the characters... wasted potential, this could be a film to end this loooooong boring suffering efficiently 

A simple story told in a warm and motivating narrative. The struggles to achieve dreams, the road to self-discovery and self-love, and starting over in life when you are nearly 30, were the main topics of the drama. I was excited about this drama as it was another big project of Bright. Also, Davika is such an eye candy and an awesome actress. I really loved her expressions and everything about how she carried her role. I empathized with her mainly in the aspect of a complicated relationship with her mother. This one was indeed (aside few sexist scenes) a well-done drama from GMM (they did not ruin the end surprisingly :P). A huge bonus was also an aesthetic and powerful OST – Counting star.

meeeh

wtf was this

I did not hate this drama nor did I consider it very interesting. I loved the humanistic and moral aspects of the story but the main character – Chikara portrayed by Jun, bugged me off. He was just too annoying and lame. Idk his overly merry-go-happy attitude seemed inappropriate in most situations. Tbh Jun can act much better and it seemed like he is wasting his potential. All in all, it was just another mediocre family drama with a slice of life topics.

The crazy idea of a split-personality character done not badly. Enjoyed the „bromance“, humorous scenes, and also the fighting and action stunts. Yes, the story had some weak parts but a few plot twists saved it for me.

MASTERPIECE!

Unique and beautiful piece of cinematography. It was such a long time since I was amazed by a film. It gives viewers all sorts of emotions. It was poetical yet raw, melancholic yet comedic, dreamy yet realistic. Kudos to the acting cast. If you are looking for a film that will move you, make you think yet you can relax watching it, definitely go for this one!

PS: felt this on a spiritual level, my bro chose this as our cinema evening film ♥

Not to be that person but for me, this drama did not live it up to its hype. I like that the S.Korea tries to be inclusive and address topics of mental health more often and more realistic in their dramas. On the other hand, glamouring of self-centered egoistic FL just because of her trauma felt disturbing and toxic. I don‘t mind toxic characters but they should not be glorified and become some standard of toxic aesthetic. Also, I did not feel the chemistry and did not root for the main pair. Can‘t imagine how they can continue their relationship in such context. However, the autistic older brother and his relationship with ML made me interested to continue watching.  What I also liked were the philosophical dialogues and artistic cinematography.

To sum up, aesthetics on spot, the story not so interesting, a big plus for showing mental health issues.

Or when Orwell meets Thailand´s high school love story with a grain of thrilling mystery. Loved the plot twists, interesting insight into high school mystery, and awesome chemistry between the leading actors. It is miracle that GMM was able to produce another well-done drama in 2022.

A rare cinematographic gem from the Philippines. I wish I watched it during the lockdown. Yet this simple but beautiful coming-of-age love story made me so motivated and warm in my heart. I am still so obsessed ♥

Another indie film with Kengo Kora as ML. Loved the optimistic message of the melancholic story. The power of friendship and working towards a big dream definitely move hearts. Anyone who loves indie cinematography and the theme of a rock band would enjoy this film.

What would you do if you find out you slept through your young adult days? This drama opens topics such as lost youth, lost dreams, identity crisis, and family problems in a very humane and realistic way. One may expect it to be too melancholic or depressive but that‘s not true. This drama very gently points out that it is ok to grieve over the lost things in our life. It shows that grief can be turned into something powerful, inspiring and motivating and that we can catch up with what we missed if we want to. Another minimalistic yet powerful slice-of-life drama from Japan that is worth attention.

I have so many thoughts and nostalgic emotions for this project. But I watched it in late December so I already sorted all subjective things out...I admit this was one of the most anticipated dramas of the year. It had been ages since I was so excited about a drama. And yup I watched it with high expectations and nostalgia and love for the Utada's songs. As a huge fan of her music, I was very curious how the plot and acting, characters, and scenes would portray the emotions and message of the songs.  And yes, all of these aspects did the original songs justice. The whole drama felt like reading a novel. The narrative was unique for current trending jdramas. I loved the flashbacks and jumbling of the various characters' plotlines, it was done very artistically and witty and did not create chaos at all.

First, the acting casť was brilliantly chosen, whether legendary Satoh or Mitsushima...She is such an underrated wonderful actress. I wish she shines more in j entertainment. But young actors were great too, they deserved to show their promising talent in this project. Then the scenes. My beloved Hokkaido and its mountains and fields being contrasted with urban Tokyo suburbs. Just wonderful. And the themes of searching for identity, chasing dreams, coming of age, lost youth, and meeting the right person at the wrong time - yeah cliche but they totally match Utada's narrative in her songs.

About the drawbacks... The untangling of the main issue seemed too rushed and rather simple, I expected a deeper metaphorical plot twist. But then, the most important things in life tend to be simple, right?

All in all, yes I laughed, I cried, I was angry, I was happy, I was longing...All the emotions created a bittersweet flavour. Would def rewatch it in my 30s (and I don't do this with just any drama). Yes, there are more unique and more creative dramas but for me, this drama holds a special place in my heart.  It belongs to my legendary drama list.

Not really a fan of medical dramas but did my best to get through it because of Aiba. I really hoped this drama has something more to offer but... Well, besides the insights into the past of the doctors, this was quite nothing new, nothing special drama...

A very cute, mangaish drama about fashion but more than that. Definitely, a must-watch if you are a fan of Satomi Ishihara. If you want something lovely and easy to watch this can be your option.

Well-acted drama with a simple touching story. The acting cast was so well selected and kudos to them for learning sign language. It is so nice to see more diverse and inclusive Japanese dramas. My only issue was that the relationships between the main trio changed drastically which made it looks so unnatural. Tbh, and 3-4 more eps would make it more satisfying to see proper relationships' development, and also the ending could be much more elaborated as well. It seemed very weak and rushed. All in all, this drama opened nice slice-of-life topics that felt like fresh air.

What a wild and crazy rollercoaster ride this was. I ended the year watching this and have 0 regrets. One of the few examples where 2nd season outshines its previous season. I went to it with no big hopes, just very curious how would characters survive in new games and know more about the Queen of . Over the few eps, I really felt attached to the characters. What I enjoyed were the moral lessons of each battle with Kings/Queens, other references to the original tale of Alice in Wonderland, the comebacks of old characters, and heart and diamonds games. Ok and precious Chisiya, who is the most interesting personality in drama for me. Now to the drawbacks... too many spades games, because they did not want to bother with logical games. What is a pity is too little time for Anne and Kuina, really 2 more eps would have done them justice. The last battle with King of spades... Yes, it made me ugly sobbing but then it was too sci-fi and rushed lol.  The ending and Queen saved it for me. Cheff Kiss Riisa Naka, my first girl crush stole the last EP. Really she deserves an award.  Moreover, I must disagree with the comments about Kento's acting being weak. Yes, it was a shame Arisu did not shine in the show but it was because Arisu is a team player and friendship is very important to him.  To sum up, this is a very well-done drama. Made a huge impact on me and I still think a lot about the themes and topics it presented. Yes, there were many plotholes but it is still a unique story.  I wish people stop comparing it to the Squid game.