joviallll
From a little red dot on the map: Singapore!
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Jawdropping, but can be conflicting at times.
‘To My Star 2’ is truly a work of art for the most of it, but there are some plot digressions that mar clarity of communication (in terms of how the drama panned out).Brace yourselves, for this review will be a long one.
*I don’t usually write reviews for any drama, but this was just too good (or should i say the last two episodes were good enough for me to consider writing this review -_-)
I have sorted out by review in terms of: Plot/Characterisation/Scriptwriting/Chemistry & Acting/Believability/Music & SFX/Editing/Props/Visuals/Dressing (wardrobe)/Mood/Atmosphere/Impact on Audience/Rewatch Value/Overall
Abbreviations:
HJW = Han Ji Woo (Kim Kang Min)
KSJ = Kang Seo Jun (Son Woo Hyeon/Hyun)
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*PLOT:*
Many have said that the plot is rather simple, with endings they can probably predict, but I feel that the plot had some attempts at being complex as well. This BL focused on taking what was hinted at in S1 & brought that idea forward in the following episodes.
For instance, in the first two episodes alone:
1) HJW’s past gets revealed: that he has an ex, who becomes one of the side characters relevant to the series later on. This extends from what we know about HJW in Season 1.
2) When KSJ had to do his job as a celebrity. The emphasis that he is a celebrity makes the plot more impactful, because of how HJW responds to it (it’s overwhelming for him, hence he leaves to not hurt KSJ, and hopes to revert to his old self without being overly dependent on KSJ like he is now). If you have watched the drama in totality, you will know that the two of them do get to wiggle around what is comfortable for them as partners, and they have decided to meet each other where possible. This also gives the two personal space if they need it, which is very well thought out.
I believe every bit of the story was directly contributing to S1 adequately. Scriptwriting was interesting too, with meaningful dialogues between the two. Some significant moments are in KSJ’s response:
1) When KSJ attempts to understand and “interpret” HJW, even knowing at times when HJW is mad, he would turn to organising things, trying to be neat and tidy.
2) This is even brought out in Ep4 when HJW, severely bothered by KSJ, turns to vacuuming the floor.
-> This illustrates a very consistent characterisation that follows throughout, which is great as it does not disrupt the flow of the story itself. From this, it elucidates that the two definitely connect with each other, while also facing a sort of “disconnect” from one another, one where they do not know how to better express themselves (especially for HJW).
My critique on the plot:
- At times, it can be rather underwhelming. Some plot digressions just do not flow. Like what was the motivation? What was the incentive of launching a story about Seo Joon? Or rather, how did it take one year for Seo Joon to find Ji Woo's hometown? Surely a superstar has better capacities than that?
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CHARACTERISATION:
This series touches on a few different ideas:
1) how characters respond to each other, and how they shape the personalities they have
2) how HJW&KSJ suit each other VS how they don’t suit each other (at the start when HJW was struggling to express his feelings)
3) KSJ, being extroverted and HJW being introverted
->does make a difference to the storyline too. The drama explores characterisation through how HJW solves his issues alone by not letting KSJ meddle in any of them, contrasted with above and beyond KSJ never giving up and constantly trying to intervene in HJW’s life problems—all of which are significant as they allow the viewers to grasp what kind of relationship dynamics exist in their relationship, as well as how they are like as characters in the drama.
4) KSJ’s bubbly personality (likely emboldened by his role as a celebrity, so I would assume he’s more comfortable and open) is seen from how he can engage the elderly with ease, all the more giving input to how he is as an extroverted puppy for HJW too. Adorable! The characterisation is consistent once again~ since one would expect a superstar to be charming and alluring.
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*SCRIPTWRITING*:
1. Some portions of the scriptwriting in Ep5 was rather confusing, as HJW reverts to his old ways of being a jerk and being nonchalant to KSJ (even berating KSJ for his cooking abilities!). I did appreciate some aspects of Ep5 though, such as how sassy KSJ and HJW’s ex (Sung Yoon) can be to each other, as if they are still fighting over HJW. It can be seen that they both care for each other since they are in the same plight—being HJW’s ex.
2. KSJ appears to be heavily sacrificing for HJW, who does not reciprocate that act of sacrifice back. It is frustrating as a viewer to interpret which direction the plot aims to go, but I do understand that this only further elaborates on the complexity of relationships: both parties need to put in effort to make sure that it works out well.
3. Ep 7’s script writing was amazing. We finally get insights on why HJW is acting so nonchalantly, and the director has allowed us viewers to evoke pity for HJW to some extent! In Ep7, the writer calls it quit with inducing suspense, finally giving us HJW’s backstory and how they relate to his present self. I will admit some scenes do seem dry, and I do have to bring myself to watch them in case I miss out anything. Can I just say whatever that was mentioned in Ep7&8 directly compliments the title of this drama “Our Untold Stories”? That’s so accurately named!
4. Ep 9&10: A beautiful work of art. Plot progression was extremely nuanced, with many impactful lines such as:
“Human stupidity has it’s limits (implying KSJ will not be stupid to keep chasing HJW)”
“When life gets hard, I’ll come to you (a line repeated from previous episodes)”
5. And, this particular chunk of lines in Ep 10:
HJW: “Then you (KSJ) too. Don’t have frequent calls with others. And don’t laugh. I’m (HJW) the jealous type. I won’t let you do it.”
KSJ: “All this time, you acted like it was nothing”
HJW: “I’ve been holding it in all this time (his jealousy). Had I say it, I was afraid it would affect your job”.
-> These few lines are particularly impactful to me as they show the caring nature of HJW, one where he sacrifices his own feelings to ensure KSJ’s career is not put at risk. Stunning. Amazing. Jawdropping. Everything in the last two episodes were explained so thoroughly.
Overall, good story plot and linkages to the previous episodes!
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*CHEMISTRY & ACTING*
I have never had an issue with their acting at all, in fact what was presented was a very genuine, deep love of how the two cannot survive without one another. The idea of pure, puppy love of KJW contrasted to the hidden caring nature of HJW’s complements their relationship and chemistry, making it a ton more believable. The acting is not exaggerated, what is shown is what is taking place. It feels very comforting to watch them and both of them play their roles with excellence. There were some slips with other characters, but not too unbelievable to mar clarity of plot. The two’s chemistry, on the other hand, is CRAZY GOOD. One can see the complexity of the relationship and how KSJ is dependent on HJW.
Some instances of good chemistry in the relationship:
1. KSJ wrote a whole song to HJW’s ex (telling her to stay away from HJW)and sang it in front of her (and the villagers), that was some power move and dedication.
2. HJW can simply not hide his feelings for KSJ again & takes the initiative by kissing him in EP4, falling in love with KSJ all over again :) cute!
3. When KSJ said “(he’ll) work like a bee… why is he (KSJ) so harsh to me” this line was particularly impactful to me as we see the desperation in KSJ’s words alone.
4. As KSJ helps to pack up boxes in Ep5&6, we see HJW get absolutely lost in his own world (zoning out, staring intently at KSJ). We see in such acting how HJW actually feels towards KSJ. His harsh, brutal words do not speak what his heart wants to say.
5. The name of the restaurant “I’m waiting (for KSJ?)” and HJW keeping his old phone, and KSJ’s shirt and are good pieces of evidence to attest that HJW has (discreetly, secretly) not been able to get over KSJ. The keeping of his belongings sounds like a message HJW wishes to convey to KSJ, about how he probably cannot bring himself to let go just yet—especially when the last he has of KSJ are his belongings. The message is just disseminated in a very indirect fashion.
6. When HJW tries to tell KSJ to “not be too friendly to the villagers” and “that there was no harm in being careful”. His caring nature is shown here again!
7. Ep7&8 acting was INCREDIBLE. The tears that fell off HJW’s face, the micro expressions and the look of melancholy painted on HJW’s face because of his now monotonous & mundane lifestyle without KSJ was extremely explicit! Loved the acting!
8. kissing scenes in the last two episodes amplifying how they depend on each other to survive
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*BELIEVABILITY*:
Generally believable because:
1.Drama explores the actor’s daily life, the chef’s daily life and how they go about their job, even making ample time for each other once their day jobs are done (as shown by how HJW goes to KSJ’s shoot and KSJ wants to “make out” in the dressing/makeup room Ep2).
2. we get to see how jealous KSJ can be in ep3&4 when HJW’s ex arrives, even asking his manager to check it out, it’s a very logical approach to the plot, making it a ton more believable especially for someone so “clingy/needy for love”like him, which is lovely!
3. Notwithstanding, in the later episodes (Ep5&6), the links are not as explicit. For instance, the mention of how HJW’s parents left him and thus he ghosted his ex, and then ghosted KSJ later on in another relationship. This assumes a problem that lies with HJW, and the plot justifies it in that way, which is where I find fault with it. How a person behaves should not be justified because of what past they’ve had. A comparative example: Being part of a serial killer’s family (for instance) is not a reason for their children to be serial killers too. Similarly, just because HJW was not well brought up, does not give him any reason to behave in such a childish manner—one where he does not speak his mind about what went wrong, how KSJ can improve, or bring himself to say anything constructive.
4. Point 3 aside, the writer pushed the believability portion even further in Ep8 where we find out TB CEO’s (Pil Hyun) honey is actually the reporter from S1! (Yoon Seul) I loved that their chemistry went even further haha :)
5. Their believability is off the roof in Ep9&10! The two explored their relationship in a very mature manner, and they are so playful it's adorable.
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Music & SFX: No issues, music was used appropriately. Some songs were soothing and suited the mood at the relevant timings (was quite apt)
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Editing/Props/Visuals & Dressing/Setting/Atmosphere, Mood:
I will have to make a brutal statement that I did not fancy the editing this time. Some transitions to the next scene seemed abrupt, and time stamps were disjointed for sure.
As for props, like the green screen when KSJ is taking professional pictures, the phones when they make phone calls to demonstrate certain plot digressions, THE RING THEY BOTH HAVE ON THEIR RING FINGER, the gifts, were all useful.
The other side characters are also important in showing the intricacies of KSJ’s career—that it is not a one man show (e.g. KSJ being depressed, his agency is affected too). Moreover, use of the appliances and things HJW owns are sufficiently testament in showing his role as a chef. Rather useful props to add effect.
Visuals & Dressing: I loved their use of outfits this time around. Finally a BL that has more budget to accommodate different outfits for HJW, who initially used to only wear the same outfits in the past, is now turning to someone with good fashion sense because of KSJ! We get to see how the two have grown to change when they’re with each other. I also particularly like the scene where HJW is on a bike trying to look for KSJ, it is a very important reminder of what he misses so much--the memories he has had with HJW.
Mood/Atmosphere: Perfect! Nothing was awkward or cringe about the show in my opinion. Everything felt real, serious and pure.
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Impact on audience/Impressions: I think this BL alone through its first two episodes has left a very long-lasting, lingering impression on me. I was able to understand what being a top star like KSJ entails, while at the same time, how someone who is so silent and yearns for love as a cook (HJW) can behave when he is not able to do “couple-like” things with KSJ in public. For instance, in E1/E2, it was mentioned that HJW was pissed because he “could not go out walks with KSJ because he was a celebrity” and this left a huge impact on me all because it made me realise that a celebrity’s reputation is so fragile and fluid, and hence evokes pity for HJW. This BL paints a very realistic picture of what life is probably like for real life celebrities too, and all the more we should respect their privacy. So, insightful ideas portrayed. Furthermore, the line where the drama says “the one with more feelings has to put up with the other; be the one to adapt” holds pretty true in this story, and helps the viewers understand the plot further. KSJ, being the one with more attachment to HJW, ends up being the one trying to find mitigatory ways to be more likeable to HJW; at the expense of his own reputation.
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Rewatch Value: I will most definitely be rewatching some episodes of this drama. This drama has been a whole train ride for me. The plot development was extremely good as we get to see that KSJ’s relationship with his parents are not great, giving more insights to how everything in the drama are related and also a more in-depth understanding of their personalities and the role they play in the drama. Acting was extremely good, you can see how professional the two main characters (especially them) were in playing their role to be true to what it was intended to be. However, in terms of 'rewatch'.. personally I will stick to watching Episodes 1 and 10.
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I have also written detailed reviews for Episodes 1, 4, 6, 7, 8 and 10. You may take a look for a more in-depth review of the episodes (Ep 6 and 10, especially)!
Overall, a fantastic BL drama. Top in my charts for now! Thank you for taking time to read this review, do provide feedback if you can since this is my very first review!
*Side note: realised this review is 2621 words long. Bless you for making it all the way here hahaha, have a good day!
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INCREDIBLY UNDERRATED.
EDIT: WTF WAS EP20??? MY REVIEW BELOW IS ONLY FOR EP1-19 BECAUSe EP20 was absolutely RUBBISH that it will ruin the whole score of the dramaPlot & Scriptwriting: A+
The plot is insane, exploring a universe where too much power can influence the lives of others, teaching us to stay humble. As quoted, "With power comes great responsibilities". One simply cannot delve into the world of sorcery without there being temptation. What we can control however, is the way we respond to it. In this case, this drama showcased how good can triumph over evil for the overall betterment of society. I felt like the dialogues used in this drama was also particularly relevant in shaping characterization, which is essential as it allows us to rationalize the decisions made by every character.
Chemistry: A+
Based off a pupil-master relationship, the chemistry between Jang Uk and Mudeok shoots past the sky's limit. We get to see evidently how Mudeok is secretly dependent on Uk, how Mudeok would go to the extent of using her powers to save Uk from a soul shifter, protecting him. Similarly, Jang Uk's constant drive to push himself to his limits with the guidance of Mudeok/Naksu has enabled their chemistry to grow like that of a plant, from a seed to a beautiful plantlet. We see obvious signs of their affection towards on another, and their chemistry is amplified with their kisses and gazes. Not to forget, the way Jang Uk and Mudeok had 'telepathy' through telling the same confession to leader of Songrim by saying that they both are in love with one another demonstrates their chemistry, and it is without question that their chemistry gets an A+. Moreover, I must say the bromance between the crown prince and Jang Uk was rather endearing!
Acting: A+
The characters generally played their roles well, with micro expressions to highlight how each of them are feeling at each time. Some hits and misses but not enough to undermine the nature of the show. Extremely well-acted and strengthens the believability of the show.
Believability: B+
Some plot digressions may seem slightly odd, but not enough to undermine the crux of the story.
Music & SFX: A++++++++++++++++++++.
Crazy OST, always apt for any moment and suitable for certain context(s). Overall, it does make the whole experience of watching the drama that much better! Love the way they strategically made use of OST to instill fear at times, especially with the scenes concerning Jin Mu's malicious intents.
Editing, props, setting, atmosphere, mood/vibe: A+
Really insane editing that transports us to a whole new dimension! Props like ice stone, water (for tansu), even the dressing of each character suited the whole theme and vibe of the show! Nothing felt out of the ordinary, and I particularly liked the fact that blue was always used to depict either Mudeok, Uk and green for Yul and yellow for Danggu. Very consistent dressing and I could very easily identify which character was who, without having to rewatch certain scenes again. Everything was edited in a very chronological manner, and for scenes showcasing flashbacks, they were usually distinct from the present, illustrating different time stamps in the movie.
Impact on society/Impressions on audience: A+
This drama has taught me that greed can drive even the best of people to spiral down a hole that they can't run free from. Even the crown prince, someone of high authority, can fall short in many tasks and when opportunities arise, he highlights the way human nature is like-- that we have selfish intents, but what is in our possession is the decisions we make to mitigate them as well.
Rewatch Value: A+
Would I rewatch this? DUH. I will be rewatching this for the thrill since almost every scene glued me from start to end. No regrets starting this show from a classmate who had told me about it! Will rewatch to take note of any hints and clues in the show~
A show that piques my interest, and is comparable to kdrama 'Tomorrow'. Well done steak of a drama I must say! Can't wait for Season 2 that releases in late December 2022. :)
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Press on, for you are worth it.
This is my highest rating for a drama yet. This show explores the complexity of human life. Everyone yearns to take their life because life’s stresses can be just so taxing. This show, demonstrated through 16 episodes, the reason why life is valued so heavily: and that is because the future is uncertain. As once suicidal, this show has piqued my interest in the afterlife; but more importantly, taught me the ways and means of life. Life is fragile, life can be fluid, life’s path is based on the decisions you make. The decisions you make today will affect the outcomes of tomorrow. Every move you make has an impact, no matter how big or small the move is. What an impactful movie that illustrated all these facts; irrefutable truth to me.Plot: Extremely well-developed, and intricate. There is a climax, and a resolution. Interesting links of the Grim Reaper’s past and how they affect their emotions and personalities. Through 16 episodes, they ran through the so important cases that are hardly mentioned in society today. What are we living for? How can we better ourselves? How can we find help? Why not let tomorrow be a dream instead? This show explains that dying in such a fashion (suicide) will not make anything better; and the “benefits” like escaping one’s misery is extremely short-lived. Life is precious. Life is worthy. And you are worthy of this gift. This show explicitly showcases all possible instances of when, why, how, and what kind of people can have suicidal thoughts (of course, not limited to them only), but it has the impact of empowering other people to be more alert; to be more aware of the people around them—and how to provide aid. Impressions on the audience is highly vivid: particularly the veteran, eating disorder case, as well as the animal case.
Scriptwriting: Well-written. Meaningful dialogues were used in exploring characterisation of individuals in the drama. Everything had a logical flow to it. My only slight issue with scriptwriting was when some plot digression did seem slightly abrupt; but not abrupt enough to undermine message and impact of the drama, hence only penalised slightly. Some sequential flow seemed hazardous too, but they were explained all the end—perhaps a case of wanting to induce suspense but unsuccessful, in my opinion. Though, overall, ideas still flowed smoothly. One thing I would do if i were the producer would be to add that element of what happens to the star and Jun Woong, making the script advanced to a greater depth. That would, in my opinion, explore the day-to-day lives of everyone and how Jun Woong as a character stands out, and how more people should strive to model him in today’s society.
Music/SFX: Highly appropriate, apt selection. Extremely well-catered to the sequential flow of the story, as well as the tension/intensity/drama it wishes to amplify. Suitable for the show, very well chosen. Job well done, editing team.
Believability & Acting: I have to applaud their acting. Acting felt genuine, characterisation in personalities of different individuals, especially the main characters, were very true to their role played and the message they wish to portray to the viewers. Nothing felt exaggerated, and it was a joy to watch them take their role so seriously to the extent I would forget it was a drama at times. Impact on audience is also amazing, as the drama attempts to convey the message of living on consistently throughout all 16 episodes.
*Side note: This is also the first drama that every episode has a rating above 8.5 from me. I always will have a few episodes that slip and hence, fall under 7/10. But what amazed me was how consistent the drama was, nothing seemed out of the ordinary, and this drama has definitely surprised me with how good the scriptwriting is. Every idea portrayed has a link to the other, if not, it is a complex analysis of how one can suicide. Many cases arise, and this drama successfully addresses them. For more information, you may see my scores for the respective episodes at the bottom. They are rated using the following rubric;
Plot, Scriptwriting (Meaningful dialogues, especially), Chemistry (if any), Acting, Believability, Music & SFX, Editing/Props/Atmosphere/Mood, Impact on audience/society (e.g. whether any of these will have a long-lasting change to be embraced), Rewatch value, and loopholes in plot (if any, as a deduction of the overall score).
Abbreviations:
*E = Episode
Rating:
E1 - 9/10
E2 - 10/10
E3 - 9/10
E4 - 8.5/10
E5 - 10/10
E6 - 10.5/10, still my favourite episode. Heart-wrecking & touching. You may see my review on this episode for a more in-depth reasoning for why I felt it deserves above 10/10.
E7 - 9.5/10
E8 - 9.5/10
E9 - 9.5/10
E10 - 8.5/10, pales in comparison to Episodes aforementioned.
E11 - 9.25/10
E12 - 10/10
E13 - 8.75/10
E14 - 10.25/10, an amazing episode that explores even Grim Reaper’s have their past. My review is also up for this episode.
E15 - 9.75/10
E16 - 9.5/10, interesting ending to the whole drama. Sweet. In my opinion, could’ve been explored further with Jun Woong, hence slight deduction.
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