Tuesday, August 4, 2015

[JDrama] Mischievous Kiss 2: Love in Tokyo (Running Commentary Episodes 6-10)

My Mischievous Kiss Marathon continues as does the running commentary.

May contain spoilers.

Episode 6--I agree that Naoki is sometimes a cold jerk, but I'm getting tired of others making assumptions about Naoki and Kotoko's relationship and his feelings for her. Like think about it: Would someone like Naoki marry someone he didn't WANT to marry?!

Haha---love Kotoko's nursing buddies, especially the femme-boy and the sinister-angel. 

Your words, Naoki. Use your words, not telepathy or whatever strategy you think you're using to express your feels. Hate it when they're fighting like this! Makeup already!

Are you kidding me?! That's too far. Acting cold is one thing, but completely ignoring Kotoko?! Proud of Kotoko for finally conveying her feelings. Naoki: ball is in your court now.

Episode 7--Awwww! Their makeup made everything worth it! So sweet. I don't even feel bad for what's-his-face for poaching on another man's wife! Though as Moto-chan says, he has helped strengthen their relationship. Absolutely loved Kotoko's imitation of Naoki when retelling Mama-Irie how they made up. Made me literally LOL. Even better was Naoki's embarrased "Oii!"

In her fantasies, why does Kotoko always give Naoki a personality transplant. She should know her hubby pretty well by now and that he wouldn't act that way. Haha, but that's what makes Kotoko who she is, I guess.

Kotoko's nursing class reminds me of my Education cohort. We only had 4 male education students! Haha

And yet another example of why Kotoko is so well-loved even though she's a moron. Her heart is too warm to resist. Yay for another lovely kiss and a softening Naoki.

Episode 8--   -__- Even in your fantasies, slapping a patient is never okay. I haven't commented on this yet, but what the heck is with the weird opening? The song isn't bad, just the animation-style sequence. What a wicked baa-chan! And Petty girls like the nurses irk me. Seriously.

Episode 9--Sigh. Yet another rival for Kotoko appears. You're not very funny, Rika-chan! Joking, my butt! "I'll give you something." Rika's such a little Shrew! Though, I don't understand why Kotoko still doesn't have any confidence as Naoki's wife. He did choose you. So childish, Rika. Also, you're being a jerk! Delusions, as well. Whoo-hoo kiss number, heck who's counting. Love how the adversaries simply make their relationship stronger. "When did I ever give you reason to doubt us." Um..all of the time. Are we watching the same show, Naoki? Though I guess technically, it's Kotoko constantly jumping to conclusions and letting her insecurities take charge.

Episode 10-- Slow your roll little Yuki-love-interest. You're like 10. But why is she and Kotoko so similar with their age difference? *facepalm* 

Oh, always wanted to learn more about Kotoko's mom, but uh-oh, even Papa-Aihara is nervous. What an over-the-top welcome! And how like Naoki to be a grammar-nazi. But a laughing Naoki... *swoons* Sometimes I wish Kotoko could see how sweet Naoki is the way that we do, but I guess it wouldn't have the same effect on viewers. I love how we learn that Kotoko's mom was exactly like her! Things have been going too well between our favorite lovebirds. Episode 11 will probably shake things up a bit.

Until later,
Tuma

Monday, August 3, 2015

[J-Drama] Mischievous Kiss 2: Love in Tokyo (Running Commentary for EP 1-5)

Hello Everyone!

I'm currently watching Mischievous Kiss 2: Love in Tokyo. I've always been a mega fan of the Itazura na Kiss series ever since I saw It Started With a Kiss and Joe Cheng. I watched the first season a while ago (see review), but I'd actually forgotten that I hadn't watched the sequel! *gasp*

As I've been marathoning, I've been keeping a running commentary on each episode. It contains my reactions, feelings, and thoughts as I watched each episode. From my review of the first season, I wasn't much of a Naoki fan, but as you can see below, he's starting to grow on me!

MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS.

Without further adieu:

Episode 1--The first episode is actually the same as the Love in Okinawa Special. Cute and great overview of what happened in season one as a refresher. Man, was the Mari girl annoying, though I don't completely agree with the way her hubby finally "put on his pants" in the relationship. Naoki is as much an ice prince as ever, but it makes his few moments of thaw that much more sugary-sweet! And his family is as wacky as ever. I adored Mama-Ikie in season 1 and am looking forward to watching more of her shenanigans.

Episode 2--I was annoyed through most of this episode. Naoki is still lacking communication skills, despite heartfelt intentions. Kotoko's communication ranges from whiny to high-pitched squeals. Yet, towards the end, I recalled why this lead couple and this show is so popular. Their default annoyance makes instances of their true characteristics more potent. If Naoki smiled all of the time, we wouldn't melt quite so swiftly when he smiles fondly at Kotoko. If Kotoko wasn't so immature and childish, we wouldn't appreciate her moments of growth.

Episode 3-- Mama Irie was more annoying than funny in this episode. Her constant interference, the way she draws sudden conclusions, and blows these out of proportion can be irritating. On the plus side, Naoki was a total darling in this episode! And his panty-dropping line of, "should we make one [a baby]" was absolute gold! Kotoko has finally decided what she wants to do with her life, but Naoki is still at the center of her choice. I wish she would be her own person already. Overall, super sweet episode!

Episode 4-- How does Naoki become exponential hotter with each episode? It's a paradox! This sequel is so steamy compared to the first one. I hope we continue with the whole kiss-an-episode phenomenon, cause I love it!

Episode 5--I know Kotoko's incompetency is part of her character, but how can a person not be good at anything?! But, I did get to enjoy Naoki's evil stare at another one of Kotoko's shenanigans. Poor Funatsu, we need to find you the nerdy girls! A jealous Naoki is nice. Very nice, indeed. No kiss this episode, but CUE love triangle.


Anyone else watching this drama? Feel free to discuss the first five episodes with me in the comments! =)

Peace,
Tuma

Friday, July 31, 2015

[K-Drama Review] Exo Next Door (2015)

I'm a member of a few Drama groups on Facebook. In need of a drama to watch, I received a few recommendations after posting the following:
Hiya everyone, it's been a while since I've last popped in, hope everyone is doing well.
In a bit of a slump, feeling restless, bored, and a little sad, but not really? Lol Dunno.
Anyway, currently watching Fated to Love You, but I read ahead on dramabean and now cannot proceed with episode 11 because I know it's devastating. (Haha dunno why I did that.)
Can anyone recommend a SUPER light hearted drama with no more than 7% angst. Haha Korean, Japanese, and/or Taiwanese all welcome.
Thanks for listening and your help in advice!
 I decided to go with EXO NEXT DOOR because of the super short episodes. I liked the idea that I could finish it in a few hours. (Also recommended: Itakura na Kiss variations, Let's Eat, Marriage Without Dating, Stand Up!, King of High School, and You're Beautiful.)

 

 Synopsis:

A 23-year-old girl named Ji Yeon has never been in a relationship because she is super shy and blushes intensely when faced with a boy she likes. Imagine the turn her love life takes when the members of K-pop boy band, EXO, move in next door to keep a low profile.

 

 

Thoughts:

This mini-series most likely drew EXO fans, but since I'm not particularly a fan of EXO, they didn't immediately appeal to me as actors. Even as purely eye-candy they're not to my taste, but I continued watching anyway.

The lead character is Ji Yeon, who freeloads ungratefully off her mom and blushes intensely when faced with an attractive boy she likes. I didn't find her endearing or cute, simply annoying. Her actions in the beginning were aggravating and impolite. She's such a SNOOP! I also found her blushing weird and unattractive, maybe even a little creepy. Yet, she started to grow on me in the last few episodes.

Though, there were a few moments where I chuckled a bit,  I wouldn't consider this show funny.
I did thoroughly enjoy Sehun and his bromance with Ji Yeon's oddball younger bro. It's actually my favorite aspect of the show. The scene during and after "The Big Secret Reveal" was also quite endearing. There was an attempt to get melo-angsty with Suho's character in one, longer-than-usual episode towards the end has some effect.

Also, SPOILER-ISH RANT: Don't get all dolled up for a date when you haven't even received a confirmation text! "No news is actually just no news." But it was pretty sweet how he came running over immediately when he was told that she was waiting.

The ending was cute, I guess. But not very satisfying, at least not on the romantic front. It was actually a bit cheesy. And I usually enjoy cheesy.

In sum, it was enjoyable in a way, but not particularly memorable. I wouldn't necessarily recommend it to anyone or re-watch it. However, if you're all caught up on dramas, happen to be an EXO fan, or want to imagine what life would be like if your fave kpop band moved in next door, then give EXO NEXT DOOR a try. It'll be only 3.5 hours of your life.

Tuesday, July 14, 2015

[Korean Drama Review] God's Quiz Season 1

I stumbled across God's Quiz after binge watching some American psychological crime shows, such as Criminal Minds, Blacklist, and Hannibal. It had suddenly occurred to me that I could quite possibly combine my two obsession and find myself a Korean psychological crime drama.

God's Quiz more than met my expectations and fed my interests. Each episode was intriguing and compelling to watch. I was thoroughly fascinated with each crime and the process of Dr. Han Jin Woo and his team in solving each one. Though God's Quiz was more a medical/crime show than psychological crime, there were more than enough psychology to keep my interest. The hint of romance between Dr. Han and Detective Kang was also a nice touch as well for someone who almost solely watches Romantic Comedy dramas.

Dr. Han's character is extremely genuine and likeable. His seemingly frivolous attitude quickly gave way to a more deep character that viewers were compelled to love.  (The actor's good looks also didn't hurt at all). Detective Kang was a pretty, strong, intelligent character who's seriousness and passion for justice offset Jin Woo's playful facade. Lastly, the rest of the medical examining team was a great mix of authentic, humorous, and endearing supporting characters.

Overall, I would definitely recommend God's Quiz and I am looking forward to watching seasons 2, 3, and 4.

Friday, July 10, 2015

Currently Watching: We Got Married Global Edition, Season 1

I stumbled across this reality TV show two days ago. I started watching before I realized that this isn't the original series and that the original had four seasons. I'm nearly finished binge-watching it. So far, I think the concept is cute and entertaining. However, it's become a bit of a painful, fast-forwarding game as the Taecyeon/Gui Gui couple is wearing on my nerves.

Sunday, February 23, 2014

Exciting Additions to "Planning to Watch" List

Below are some new additions to my Planning to Watch list that I'm most excited about! 

 
 My Love from Another Star



 

Queen In-Hyun's Man



 

Incarnation of Money
  

Emergency Couple

 

I Need Romance

Monday, February 17, 2014

[Kdrama Review] Flower Boy Next Door (2013)

File:My Flower Boy Neighbor-poster.jpg

What's it about:

Flower Boy Next Door is an early 2013 romantic comedy that aired from January 7th to February 26th and is based on a webtoon called "I Steal Peeks At Him Every Day." It has Park Shin Hye as Dok Mi, a young woman who has hidden herself away from the world. A past hurt has made her unwilling to interact with the outside world and other people and she spends her time editing manuscripts and peeping at her neighbor across the street. One day, her neighbor's cousin--Enrique Geum of Spain (played by Yoon Shi Yoon) catches her, while eating a Popsicle and wearing boxers and a panda-hat! That is the beginning of their weird relationship that results in her coming out of her shell and finding love. (Intrigued?)

What I thought about it:

Flower Boy Next Door is a gem of a drama that hasn't received as much attention as it deserves, overlooked probably by its early release date. However, it's a definite must watch.

At first glance, this seems like a fluffy, lighthearted drama, but the hilarity and weirdness hides a deeper plot that is engaging and draws viewers completely in. The core of that powerful draw is with the eclectic group of characters and the sweet storyline. Dok Mi is horribly lonely and separated from the world. Her neighbor Ji Rak is working on a webtoon that is based on the one-sided love that Ji Rak has for Dok Mi and her developing relationship with Que-Geum. There is also Ji Rak's roommate and assistant Doon Hoon and Watanabe who is in Korea from Japan to learn Korean cuisine. Each of the characters are unique and entertaining, real and wacky. However, they're not just funny. There is depth to each character, a history and a past that makes them who they are. The reveal of each character's past is what makes viewers fall for them and keeps viewers hooked on the drama. The secondary characters are also pretty unique and my fave character is the crazy editor.

More things that I loved about this drama:

  • The love confession was refreshingly direct. Actually, the entire drama is refreshingly direct. It's a simply story about a woman who is drawn back into the world of the living by love. But it is that simplicity that makes this drama a gem. Even without sudden amnesia, evil ex's or mothers, rich chaebols, servitude or separation, there wasn't a single part of the series that was BORING or less than interesting. There also weren't any of the typical Kdrama misunderstandins that last several episodes either. I really did enjoy the directness of the characters in Flower Boy Next Door.
  • The male characters were really in touch with their emotions and not afraid to cry. There were a lot of excellent, heartfelt tear scenes. 
  • Another drama that showcases crazy fans. This seems to be a thing in Korean dramas lately.
  • The ending episode was a really great wrap-up and left viewers with a lot of feel-good feels. I was smiling so much throughout the entire episode that my cheeks hurt.
  • I almost couldn't take how cute Dok Mi and Que Geum were together. I nearly died from cuteness overload! And Ji Rak's was freaking freaking adorable as well! It was sooo hard to choose who I wanted her with.
  • Best lines in any drama. Ever! (in episode 9): (The English major in me grins and agrees wholeheartedly.)
Doon Hoo: Ji Rak's phone 
Editor: Is the phone talking?! You should say 'This is Doon Hoon askwering Ji Rak's Phone'! Why doesn't anyone use proper grammar?!

Other related comments:

  •  I've always heard such harsh comments about Park Shin Hye's acting ability, especially in connection to Heirs. While I've yet to watch Heirs, I felt that Shin Hye's acting in this drama was pretty good. She was well-suited to the role of Dok Mi. Was she absolutely amazing? Not particularly, but certainly not horrible. I think she's definitely growing as an actress And plus, she was Go Mi Nam in You're Beautiful and Lee Gyu Won in Heartstrings--two dramas that I really enjoyed
  • I was surprised at my feelings of wanting to immediately rewatch Flower Boy Next Door. I've never rewatched a drama. While other kdrama fans rewatch their fave dramas 10, 20, even 30 times, I cannot compel myself to spend time rewatching a series that could be time spent watching a new amazing drama. With that being said, I think I have to watch Flower Boy Next Door again one day and that's certainly saying something about how much I enjoyed it.

Last words:

Go. Watch. This. Drama. Now!
Watch it over on Viki: http://www.viki.com/tv/11165c-flower-boy-next-door
Or if DramaFever is more your style: http://www.dramafever.com/drama/3851/Flower_Boy_Next_Door/

Thursday, February 13, 2014

[Anime Review] Antique Bakery (2011)



After watching the Korean movie, Antique Bakery, I watched the anime series of the same title to see how it compares. Overall, it's pretty good. The movie and the anime series follow the same storyline pretty closely and are almost identical to one another. The additional hour of watch time that the anime gives you allows viewers to enjoy some additional story fillers that are pretty amusing. I found that the anime series was funnier for some reason (loved the exaggerated facial expressions). I especially enjoyed Chikage's character in the anime series. However, the Korean versions of the other characters were more enjoyable for me. While the anime series is nearly as good, I liked the Korean movie version just a little bit more.

Saturday, February 8, 2014

[J-Movie Review] Rurouni Kenshin (2011)

 

Rurouni Kenshin is based on the manga series by Nobuhiro Watsuki and follows the story of Himura Kenshin, former assassin turned wandering protector. In an effort to begin repenting for all of the lives he has taken, Kenshin takes a vow to never kill, even carrying a reverse sword that doesn't cut. When he arrives in Tokyo during the new Meiji era, he meets Kaoru, the owner of a swordsmanship school that's good name is being ruined by someone killing in the name of "Hitokiri Battōsai." Kenshin remains in Tokyo in order to protect Kaoru and the town.

That's the basic storyline, but this series and this movie is so much more. I've always been a fan of the Rurouni Kenshin series. Though I've never read the manga, I loved the anime series as a kid. (Rurouni Kenshin along with Inuyasha were my two big anime obsessions at the time.) And when I discovered that there was a live action movie, I was beyond excited. I was positively GIDDY. Now, that I've watched this, I'm even more excited about the sequels coming in 2014.

This movie was everything I expected and even more. The acting and representation of all of my fave characters from the series was excellent. The portrayal of a small part of the story was as compelling as in the anime. And the fight scenes, oh lordy, they were so bad -and exciting! I was sitting on the edge of my seat, barely breathing, during the big showdown at the end. Also, I think I've developed a major crush on the actor who plays Kenshin, Takeru Satoh. He was perfect for the role. The perfect mix of polite, boyish charm and scary ex-assassin. I also enjoyed the developing relationship between the new friends just as the movie was ending. And this is the issue with movies versus drama series. I always feel the need for more in a movie, especially when based on a much longer series. I hope one day, someone decides to produce not only a movie series based on Rurouni Kenshin, but a drama series--one at least 50 episodes long! A girl can certainly dream. Overall, this movie is a must watch for all Rurouni Kenshin fans and lovers of samurai/action movies.

One last thing, I just had to share: The ending credits song to the movie is so darn good. Take a listen below. I watched until the very end of the credits because I couldn't bear to stop the song. And now, I am listening to it on repeat! Lastly, I may have found a new favorite j-rock band. *flails!*



Friday, February 7, 2014

[K-Movie Review] Antique Bakery (2008)

I want to begin by saying that I have been wanting to watch this movie for FIVE years. Not kidding. I can't even begin to explain why I waited so long. It's even harder to explain how upset I am at myself for waiting so long!


Antique Bakery is a well-written story about four completely different (but all very handsome) men who are brought together by chance to run a bakery together. The movie portrays the heartwarming, growing friendship between the four men--playboy owner Jin Hyuk, openly gay Seon Woo, young, abrasive, ex-boxer Ki Beom, and adorably clumby oaf Soo Yeong--as they work together to build a successful breaking. In addition to the great acting, likeable characters, interesting story, what I liked the most about Antique Bakery is that is not really the light, fluffy, lighthearted movie it first appears to me. Viewers soon learn that each of the four men have a painful history and their friendship with one another helps them overcome their pain. That's what makes this not only a fun movie, but an extremely touching one as well. I only wish that we could have spent more time seeing the reveal of the characters pasts. For that reason, I look forward to watching the anime series of Antique Bakery as well.

Don't follow my example and wait five years, watch Antique Bakery now. It's a must-watch as far as I concerned.

Thursday, February 6, 2014

Break from K-Dramas: It's MOVIE time!

After watching Master's Sun, Reply 1997, and Reply 1994 in a row, I think I'm ready for a break. I mean, that was about 60 hours of intense drama watching!

So, the plan is to watching a few Korean movies and then watch a few Taiwanese dramas that have been on my list.

Possible titles to watch in the next few days:

K-Movies:

  • Antique Bakery (watched 2/7/2014)
  • Werewolf Boy
  • Postcard from Heaven
  • Rorouni Kenshin (watched 2/8/2014)
  • The Face Reader
  • Unstoppable Marriage
  • Why Did You Come to My House

T-Dramas:

  • Love Around
  • Just You
  • The Rose

[K-Drama Review] Reply/Anwer Me 1994 (2013)


Story:

Reply/Answer Me 1994 follows the same basic storyline as 1997. It follows the relationships between a group of friends in the 90s. There are some key differences though: the characters are college students and that bit of maturity was one I could appreciate; they lived together in a boarding house, which made for a lot of fun, heartwarming scenes between the kids; the who's-the-husband game was a lot more intense in 1994 (It wasn't until the very last episode that you knew for sure. The writers did a great job of keeping both prospects in the running as actual competitors.); the story had a more serious and dramatic air to it as the maturity of the characters meant that they dealt with slightly more serious issues than the high school students in 1997. Regardless, what I loved about 1994 was the raw portrayal of life as a 20-year-old in the 90s. Like the 1997 serious, viewers can easily connect to the characters by remembering their own college days and their own lives when they were 20. Being at the tender age of 22, I'm experiencing many of the feelings that Na Jeong and her gang experience and I couldn't help but feel connected to their plights. Reply/Answer Me 1994 is a tender coming-of-age story about friendship, love, family, and finding one's place in this crazy, crazy world.

Characters:

The characters in 1994 were just as loveable, if not more so, than those in 1997. I appreciated the maturity of college students instead of high school students. However, they were just as quirky and endearing. Sometimes they were absolutely aggravating, but I fell in love with them anyway. It was a joy and a honor watching the budding relationships (both friendships and romance) of this ragtag bunch of boarding house kids. Na Jeong's parents (the same set from 1997, but with slightly different mannerism) were great supporting characters. This method of having a cast of main characters, instead of just two (or sometimes four) is refreshing. I enjoyed being able to learn each character's background equally.

Pacing:

The pacing of the series was my biggest issue with this drama. I felt that 21 episodes that were each 75-90 minutes long was too much. As a result, the story dragged and it was kind of painful. I fast-forwarded through a lot of the episodes in the second half. I had to take a few days off as a break from the drama. And there were a few moments where I seriously considered putting 1994 on hold for a bit because I just wanted it to end.

Soundtrack:

It's rare these days to find a drama with a bad soundtrack as the k-drama industry seems to have gotten really great at choosing perfect OSTs. Reply/Answer Me 1994 is no exception. The soundtrack is just as good as 1997, with songs perfectly suited to the characters, mood, and era of the drama. However, it's not one I'm compelled to download for myself, nor did any particular songs stick out for me as ones that I love. (P.S. Viki subbers do an amazing job of subbing the song lyrics through the series.)

Ending:

The last episode was a great way to wrap up the series. It's a replay of all of the 2002 wedding scenes with the groom's face finally exposed. However, it didn't feel repetitive. Instead, it felt heartwarming to finally put a face to all of the endearing wedding moments. The ending of Reply/Answer Me 1994 leaves viewers with a content, warm feeling of seeing dear friends mature and knowing that despite whatever struggles they may face in the future, they'll be just fine.

Final Verdict: 

Reply/Answer Me 1994 is a great drama. It has a great cast with excellent acting ability to portray loveable characters. The storyline is masterfully written and is engaging and enjoyable to watch. The pacing of the series is the only thing that makes this drama less than perfect. It drags quite a bit, but you can't contemplate stopping because it's so good. So you may take a few days off or fast forward, but you'll definitely come back to finish and will love it in the end. 

Thursday, January 23, 2014

[K-Drama Review] Reply/Answer Me 1997 (2012)




Reply 1997 (aka Answer Me 1997) needs to be added to your Planning to Watch list, if it's not already on your Completed or Currently Watching lists, because . . . 

IT'S PERFECT, I SAY, PERFECT!

But if that's not a good enough for you, here are 30 more reasons why that will surely convince you:
  1. The story that keeps you guessing: I loved the storyline. The screenwriters did an amazing job of creating a story full of such nostalgia about the 90's, life as a high school senior, first loves, friendships, family, following your dreams, and being happy. It immediately made me think of my own high school days, even though I was born in 1991, and so only 6 in 1997. That's what's so great about this drama, anyone can relate to it. The feelings were authentic and believable.
  2. Seo In-guk as Yoon Yoon-jae: I absolutely adored the many facets of Seo In-guk's character. Angry Yoon-jae, pouty Yoon-jae, shy Yoon-jae, jealous Yoon-jae, sweet Yoon-jae . . . I loved them all!
  3. Jung Eun-ji as Sung Shi-won: Shi-won, Shi-won, Shi-won. This girl wass a total crock-pot and I loved her. She's as crazy as they come, but so much fun. And her relationship with her friends, especially with her childhood friend, Yoon-jae, was a joy to watch. I was also awed, even impressed by her extreme fangirling. You go, girl!
  4. Hoya as Kang Joon-hee: He was so adorable. And he's character was unique and well-played. He was sweet, conscientious, and very intuitive.
  5. Mo Yoo-jung: She was adorable and I loved her with Hak-chan.
  6. Do Hak-chan: Hahaha. Man, he's character was absolutely great. How can you not loved a huge pervert who also happens to be shy around girls?
  7. Bang Sung-jae: Or a loud-mouth who speaks as if he's running on six Energizer batteries.
  8. Yoon Tae-wong: Yoon-jae's brother, who annoyed me for most of the series, but then redeemed himself at the very end.
  9. Shi-won parents: If I could find a way to ditch my own parents and take Shi-won's, I wouldn't give it a second thought. They provided great moments of comic relief.
  10. The most passionate confession of feels you'll ever likely see: It was honest, raw, and beautiful to see.
  11. The cutest, fluffiest puppy ever: So damn fluffy. But then the poor thing disappears! Completely forgortten. Bad scriptwriters, bad.
  12. The amazing, never-play-the-same-song-twice soundtrack: Omg! The soundtrack was pretty dang impressive! Each song was perfectly suited to the scene, whether serious, funny, or loving. And there was such a variety of songs played!
  13. The laughs, giggles, guffaws, and chuckles: This drama is seriously funny. Like Hahahaha, LOL, ROFLMAO kind of funny. Yet, it's heartwarming and emotionally in a few places as well.
  14. The _onata: Gonna watch to understand, but it holds sweet, significant meaning for our lead couple.
  15. The 1st kiss: Hilarious! And surprising.
  16. The 2nd kiss: Yes. Sigh... So perfect.
  17. The 3rd, 4th, 5th . . . (oh who's counting, let's just enjoy 'em) kisses
  18. Extreme Fangirls in their natural states: I watched these scenes with my jaw hitting the keyboard most of the time. Who knew fangirls could be so terrifying?
  19. Domestic abuse (kind of): While not funny in real life, the characters showed love and affection in unique ways.
  20. The granny who lives on the other side of Korea and needed a bulb change: Just smile-worthy.
  21. The super catchy song/beat that introduced each episode:
  22. An instance where a Kdrama character actually DOESN'T remove the battery to ignore a call: I was actually shocked! A viki-commenter actually pointed it out.
  23. Mr. Comic Relief Goat: Hahaha, I'm sure you'll love this as much I did.
  24. Mr. Comic Relief Sheep: This too.
  25. Brothers competing for lurve: Man, so many conflicting feelings. For both viewers and the brothers.
  26. Refreshingly blunt honesty: All of the characters in this series are refreshingly blunt with one another. It showed viewers authentic interactions between friends and family, as well as provided comic relief.
  27. Writer f***king with viewers up until the VERY end: They just wouldn't quit. Even when you were fairly sure how things were going to end up, they made you doubt just the littlest bit.
  28. Most hilarious fighting couple scenes: Yes, these were actually kind of amazing. I was both in awe and laughing hysterically.
  29. The 90's were awesome and the struggle was real: Amen.
  30. The most perfectly satisfying ending!

You should be properly convinced, now off with you. Go watch. Here's a link for you: REPLY 1997.