[Kdrama Review] Flower Boy Next Door (2013)

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/

[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. 

[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.

[Anime Review] My Little Monster (2012)

My Little Monster is a shoujo anime about a wild, crazy boy and a studious girl. Shizuku Mizutani is a super bookworm who only cares about studying and nothing else. One day, she is bribed by her teacher to take handouts to her classmate, Haru Yoshida, who was supposed to have the seat next to her, but had been suspended on the first day of school due to fighting. After dropping off the handouts, Haru considers Shizuku a friend and follows her around. Despite his uber violent tendencies, Shizuku learns that Haru isn't so bad. Eventually, they start crushing on one another and cue romance.

This series was really cute and funny. I really liked the characters. Haru's innocence and wackiness, Shizuku's blunt speech and studious nature. The supporting characters were also a lot of fun and really likeable. My only issue was that the series was entirely too short! I wanted to see Haru and Shizuku's relationship develop even more. However, the manga is still ongoing so a true ending wasn't possible. But the series didn't do too bad and provided a believable ending to tide viewers over until a potential second season. My Little Monster is worth a watch when you find you've got a couple of hours free.

A Gentlemen's Dignity: How could it be over?!

Oh...oh, oh! I just finished watching A Gentlemen's Dignity and all I can say is Oh, how I loved it! It was wonderful, amazing, stupendous, extraordinary, riveting, endearing, captivating, the list goes on and on.

It's another addition to my All-time-favorite-dramas-list. I'm feeling a little bereft, in a "what the heck do I do with myself now that this amazing series has ended" kind of way. I'm missing it already and the last episode is still open as a tab as I type this. Gahhh, it was just so darn gooood! It's been a while since I enjoyed a drama series so thoroughly.

Well, this post is simply an out-pouring of emotion. I'll post a more rational review of A Gentlemen's Dignity soon!

Until then,
Tuma
Looney Express 

[Korean Drama] Rooftop Prince (2012)

WOW! I just finished watching Rooftop Prince and all I can say is just, WOW!

Rooftop Prince begins 300 years ago in the Joseon era of South Korea and the Crown Princess has been found dead. The Crown Prince along with his four most trusted officials vow to find the truth of her death. However, they find themselves being chased over a cliff and "falling" into the 21st century and onto the rooftop house of Bak Ha!

From there, it's a 20-episode phenomenal ride full of incredible romance, plot twists, and drama.

The Story:

Rooftop Prince has one of the most unique story-lines that I have ever seen. In all of the 50+ dramas that I've watched, none have impressed me as much as Rooftop Prince. Sure there may be other impressive dramas, as I haven't watched all that many considering, but Rooftop Prince is brillantly executed. There were several plot lines occurring at the same time and feeding into one other--the crime mystery, both past and present and the romance.

Rooftop Prince's intriguing plot also had the most brilliant twists that were almost too much to handle, as well as splendid pacing and tension and a whole lot of drama--heart-wrenching, breath-stealing drama. I mean, I just want to give the writers a big ole kiss, they were just so brilliant! Just when you think you may have gotten things figured out, the writers are like "Nuh-uh, we have more for you, there are TWENTY episodes, remember?" Then you're all like, "Oh yeah. Crap. Now what?" I never watched a drama that made my jaw drop, put my hand over my mouth and gasp "Holy Shit" as many times as this one! Especially in a Rom-Com! They're not usually so suspenseful, but this one was simply awe-inspiring.

The Characters:

I've watched quite a bit of dramas and many of the most acclaimed ones (at least in Romantic Comedy) and I do not think I can say that I have seen more superb acting anywhere other than in Rooftop Prince. Each character was absolutely believable and authentic in their portrayal of their role.

Bak Ha was an inspiring female lead. She was so beautiful and possessed an inner strength to be admired. Even more importantly is that she had a strong sense of self-respect and integrity. Her emotions were so real and pulled viewers right in. Also, her honesty regarding her feelings was really refreshing as it's a rarity in other dramas.

Your Highness/YiGak/Tae Yong was so handsome (duh. Just look at that face). His character as a Prince from the past was believable and adorable. He was also an amazing actor in emotional scenes drawing viewers in.

While Bak Ha and Tae Yong played the role of Mom and Dad, the three officers Chi San, Man Bo, Yong Sool played the role of the three kids and they were perfect secondary characters as comic and cuteness relief in the most stressful or emotional scenes. They made the drama as enjoyable as it was. Without them, I probably wouldn't have kept going.

Se Na and Tae Mu played the perfect villains. I've never been so impressed or awed by the sheer evilness of the bad characters before. The actor who played Se Na, especially impressed me. She was believable in her role from beginning to end. And they just wouldn't quit! They were involved in many of the plot twists. It was insane and entralling!

The Romance:

... was absolutely freaking perfect! Bak Ha and Tae Yong's love was so strong and real that it spanned 300 years (how can you beat that?!). They could play with and tease one another, bicker like an elderly couple, and trusted one another deeply. I loved watching their interactions on screen, especially the various scenes of loving tenderness. Perfect.

The Soundtrack (OST):

Almost has perfect as Bak Ha and Tae Yong. Each song fit its scene perfectly, or added an air of suspense or irony. The writers (or whoever is in charge of the sort of thing) made very good choices! I'm in love with Ali's song "Hurt" in particular. (See both Korean and English versions below.)

The Ending:

Watching the last episode was so stressful! I was so afraid of how it would end. Viewers weren't given as many clues as we may have liked. Until the very end the writers kept surprising us, but they didn't disappoint us and the ending was nearly perfect. Though all of the loose ends were not completely tied, it was satisfying.

Looney Verdict:

Rooftop Prince is a definite must watch. It may very be the best drama of 2012. It has the most amazing acting I've ever seen in a long time, possibly ever. It has an intriguing and attention grabbing plot with excellent pacing that keeps you hooked for all twenty episodes. The perfect mix of serious emotion and comic relief, great music, and a satisfying ending. Everything a drama addict can ask to have mixed in her drug. In short, it deserves the honor of being placed amongst my "Favorite's List" and so it shall!

[T-MOVIE] Lovesick (2011)

Also known as Love Phobia

Starring Ariel Lin and Wilson Chen

Taiwanese Movie - 2011

Romantic Comedy

Review: 

In Lovesick, you have Ariel Lin playing Ariel Lin (which a little odd, but let's go with it), a young woman who was burned by her high school sweetheart. Joining a group of divorced aunties, Ariel Lin learns the three rules that will govern her future love life: 1) To barricade herself from men forever, 2) Be your own hero, and 3) There is no true love. Everything is going swimmingly until she meets the good and handsome doctor, Dr. Lu Zhe Han. Doubtful at first about how perfect he seems, she strives to reveal his true inner wickedness. Any man that handsome has to be a sleazebag, right? But wait there's more! Color Ariel Lin surprised when she realizes that not only is Zhe Han one of the rare (but not actually so rare) nice guys, but she's also falling for him!

Hilarity, silliness, and wackiness ensues! The lead couple was a refreshing mix of clumsy-cuteness. The storyline was a bit silly, but part of what I like about Taiwanese cinema is the wacky exaggerations. It's a bit outlandish and not what most Americans are used, but I like it and find it amusing. The characters were all fun (sometimes even ridiculous). In addition to the lead couple, I especially liked the Divorced Aunties Trio and the random taxi-driver. 

Lovesick had a lot of great and amusing scenes. Also, what I really enjoyed was that it gave a traditional scene, like the-chasing-to-the-airport-to-express-your-feelings scene a  wacky twist. The scene began traditionally, but then I was surprised when it didn't end the way I expected and even more surprised when a fist and TV cameras became involved!

There were also some great lines. Two of my favorites are: "This taxi is like a jet engine" and "At what point is she better than me? My heart. She has my heart." Ahhh, *melts* I loved it! 

Overall, this is a cute one to watch and is pretty enjoyable. It starts a little slow and you're not sure what to expect, but you soon find yourself giggling and shaking your damn head at some of the shenanigans. But, don't take my word for it. Go watch it for yourself: VIKI.

[KMovie] Mr. Wacky

Korean Movie

90 minutes

Romantic Comedy/ School

Synopsis:

Woo Ju Ho likes to spend his days – and his money – on good drinks, fun clubs and loose women. Hoping to build his character, Ju Ho’s grandfather threatens to disown him unless he agrees to teach high school for two years. At first Ju Ho approaches teaching much like he did his previous playboy life – lackadaisically. Fellow teacher Yun So Ju finally gets fed up and decides to take it upon herself to set Ju Ho straight. But can a playboy teacher be reformed? 

Click to read my thoughts about the movie!

[KMovie] 200 Pound Beauty

Korean Movie

120 minutes

Romantic Comedy

Synopsis:

Korea’s all-time box office (#8 overall) comedy leader and winner for Best Film, Director, and Actress in Korea’s Grand Bell (their Oscar equivalent), is the story of a singer that resorts to drastic “head-to-toe” plastic surgery in order to become a huge star.

Review:

I have been meaning to watch this movie for long time. I first discovered it and mentally added it to my "To-Watch" list maybe two or three years ago! I'm not really sure why I waited so long before watching. Just kept being distracted by other dramas, I guess.

Anyway on to what I thought of it. Overall, I enjoyed. It's not worthy of becoming a new addition to "My-Absolute-Faves" list, but it wasn't too bad either. It was just a movie. The plot was original, at least to me. This is the first Korean movie or drama I've watched that portrayed plastic surgery so directly. I think the reason why I couldn't love the movie was because it was all so shallow to me in the end. And things didn't quite add up.

Spoilers below! PROCEED WITH CAUTION.

[Kmovie] Spellbound (Chilling Romance)

Korean Movie - 2011

Horror Romantic Comedy

114 minutes

Synopsis:

“I see dead people” is a common phrase used in parody, but if it were true, as it is for the leading lady in “Spellbound,” it would be a shockingly terrifying trait to hold.
Ever since she was young, Yeo-ri (Son Ye-jin), has had the unnatural ability to see ghosts, and when they do appear, usually when she has company, unexpected things occur to the people around her. Yeo-ri chooses to isolate herself from the outside world but is approached by a street magician named Jo-goo (Lee Min-ki), who offers her a job in his show.

One year passes, and Yeo-ri ends up playing a part in the magician’s horror-themed act, in which she plays a ghost in a closet. Every day, Jo-goo’s staff successfully close the show and invite Yeo-ri for drinks, but she always rejects their offer. She is fully aware what will happen if she gets close to people.
When eventually Yeo-ri opens up to Jo-goo about her tragic and lonely life, things start to change for the both of them. Can Jo-Goo help her find a way out? Or will he be chased away by the ghosts like all of the other people in Yeo-ri’s life?

Click below to read my review. May contain spoilers. So be aware. =)

[Kdrama] I Do, I Do (2012)

I Do, I Do

Korean - 2012

Romantic Comedy

16 Episodes

 

Viki Synopsis:

Hwang Ji An is the top shoe designer in a major shoe company. She is in her 30s, successful and single. One night, she makes a horrible mistake and sleeps with Park Tae Gang, a good-looking new employee in her company, and she finds out she is pregnant. Ji An’s hard-earned career and her stylish lifestyle threatens to implode as a result of her one-night-stand mistake. Will Ji An be forced to give up everything and live with the consequences of her mistake?

Click below to read my review. May contain minor spoilers. Sorry!

[Kdrama] Manny (2011)

Manny

Korean Drama - 2011

16 Episodes

Romantic Comedy/Family

Plot/Synopsis:

Lee Han (Seo Ji-Suk) is a single man who becomes a nanny on a whim. He also happens to live with divorced single mom Do-Young (Choi Jung-Yoon) and her 2 kids. Janice (Pyeon Jung-Su) is a rich single woman who does not want to get married. They all end up living together.

Click below for review. may contain spoilers. Sorry.

Personal Taste/Preference (2010) - Korean Drama

Personal Taste/Preference

2010 - Kdrama

Romantic Comedy

16 Episodes

Synopsis:

Personal Taste is a drama, which is based on a novel "Gaeinui Chwihyang" by Lee Sae In. The story is about a man pretending to be homosexual in order to become roommates with a woman who wants to live with a gay male friend. Jeon Jin Ho (Lee Min Ho) is a straight guy who pretends to be gay in order to become a roommate to his female friend, Park Kae In (Son Ye Jin). His hobbies include organization and ironing, and he’s known for his stoic poker face.

Review:

^___^ Ahhh...Personal Taste.

This was a GOOD one. I've been meaning to watch this for a long time, but I kept putting it off. After watching City Hunter, I wanted MORE Lee Min Ho, so I finally got around to it.

What I've been missing all this time--is a pretty good drama. Personal Taste had all of the makings of a good drama. It has an interesting, original plot, a great cast of lovable and believable characters, strong, pure chemistry and love between the lead couple and tons of hilarious moments. For 16 episodes, I laughed, smiled, teared-up, snorted, rolled my eyes and cried. The OST was also really good!

Yet there was still something missing throughout. My main issue is that the pacing was really slow.  I found myself fast forwarding quite a bit about half way through as the series kind of lost its steam. While I will not miss the series itself, I WILL miss Jin Ho and Kae In.

Personal Taste is a drama that I really enjoyed and believe to be worth watching.

P.S. The BEST place for watching dramas, is over at Viki.com. Users can leave comments as they watch. It's like watching with your friends--crazy, very unique friends! The comments are usual hysterical and totally random!

Here's the link: Get your taste of Min Ho here!

My Princess (2011)

It's been forever, I know! Sorry, super busy for school and life. Doesn't mean I haven't been watching dramas (nearly impossible), just that I haven't been blogging about them. So, I have a lot to catch up on!

Title: My Princess
Year: 2011
Episodes: 16
Genre: Romantic Comedy (Do I watch anything else? lol)
Starring: Song Seung Hun as Park Hae Young and Kim Tae Hee as Lee Seol

Synopsis: An ordinary college student, Lee Seol, finds out she's a princess. The grandson of Daehan Group, Park Hae Young, is put in charge of educating Seol on proper etiquette. However, Hae Young is put in a precarious situation when he finds himself drawn to Seol, the girl who will take away his inheritance if the monarchy is restored.

Romance/Plot: This was a very sweet story and pretty good. The progress of the romance was nicely done and subtle. Both the viewer and the characters weren't sure how or when the leads had fallen in love, just that they had. This princess plot is a bit different from others I've watched, which is nice. For one, the romance isn't between a commoner marrying into a royal family due to some promise (Goong), nor is it a romance between a princess and prince both fighting for the inheritance (Romantic Princess). In My Princess, Lee Seol is a typical, if slightly quirky, college student who finds out she's a princess and eventually falls in love with her tutor. There's some angst and political agendas, but most importantly a sweetly budding romance between her and her advisor.

Mood/Tone: What I like best about My Princess is that after all of the issues and problems, the relationship between Park Hae Young and Lee Seol is more playful than passionate. They tease and annoy one another, which I found totally cute!

Visual/Aesthetics: The castle was beautiful and so was Lee Seol's clothes. Hmm...nothing much as to say. This wasn't a drama relying on stunning scenes (not like Secret Garden).

Soundtrack: Oh man! Since I took so long to get around to writing a review, I don't quite recall the soundtrack and whether or not it was good. I'm assuming it was horrible, since one tends to remember very bad soundtracks, but I can't say it was amazing.

Overall: This is mostly definitely worth watching. The plot is interesting enough, but the lead couple if what makes this worth watching. They're so cute together.

Laters,
Tuma

Secret Garden (Kdrama)

Another drama review and this one’s a real treat!

Title: 시크릿 가든 / Sikeurit Gadeun / Secret Garden
Chinese Title : 秘密花園
Genre: Melodrama, fantasy, romance
Episodes: 20
Broadcast network: SBS
Broadcast period: 2010-Nov-13 to 2011-Jan-16
Air time: Saturday & Sunday 21:45
Synopsis: The drama tells the story of Kim Joo Won (Hyun Bin), a seemingly perfect man yet with certain arrogance and childishness in him, and Gil Ra Im (Ha Ji Won), a stuntwoman whose beauty and body are the object of envy of top actresses. One day they went deep into the mountains and entered a strange house. A strange grandmother offered them chocolate to eat. The next day they found themselves changing bodies.
My Review: “Secret Garden” takes the typical 'poor girl and rich guy fall in love despite opposition of the guy’s family’ plot and gives it a fun, magical twist! What if, in addition to dealing with all of the usual issues that arise with any new relationship—getting to know one another, admitting feelings, fighting, making up etc etc, you also had to deal with the occasional soul-swap whenever it rained? That’s what the love story of Gil Ra Im and Kim Joo Won is about.
It gets even better. Joo Woo is a the young president of a huge chain of department stores. He’s arrogant, eccentric, immature (at least with Ra Im) and claustrophobic. Ra Im is—get this—a stuntwoman. How cool is that?! Ra Im and Joo Won’s sweet love blooms each time she kicks him in the shin, or flips him over her shoulder. And kinky Joo Won thinks she’s pretty when angry, so it works for them both.
There are also the supporting characters: Joo Won’s cousin Oska, whose a Hallyu star and his first love, turned enemy, turned love again Yoon Seul. You cannot help, but love Oska, cause he’s just so damn full of himself, but in a totally playful, adorable way! And though at first you hate Yoon Seul, you begin to like her quite a lot towards the end.
Throughout the story, Joon Woo and Ra Im come against many obstacles in their love—Joon Woo’s evil mother, the two love birds themselves and a secret that’s been linking the two of them for 13 years.
“Secret Garden” is a drama that’s sometimes funny, sometimes silly, sometimes hot and heavy, sometimes sad and touching, but always full of a ton of ton between the characters.
Now, to make this a fair and “objective” review, I’d have to mention one not-so-awesome aspect of the series. *drum roll* And, the winner is…the soundtrack. Don’t get me wrong, the songs were pretty good and put quite nicely where they were put it. I just think a bigger selection was needed for a drama of this length (20 eps), to avoid sounding repetitious. I sometimes found myself fast forwarding or muting, especially in the last few episodes.
Overall, “Secret Garden” is a definite must watch. It’s a new Looney Express favorite!
So, go watch it, or I’ll “turn your vertebrae number five to number 6”!
Download here!
Watch here!

Buzzer Beat (JDrama)

Buzzer Beat

Genre: Romance, sports
Episodes: 11

Synopsis: Kamiya Naoki is a young player from a professional basketball team. But due to his relatively smaller size and his tendency to crack under pressure, he is unable to show his true skills on the court. Meanwhile, Shirakawa Riko is a cheerful, strong-spirited music college graduate aiming to become a professional violinist. One day, Riko finds Naoki's lost cell phone on a bus, and their meeting begins a friendship that eventually turns into love. However, Naoki was already considering marriage with his current girlfriend. And it doesn't help matters that Naoki's coach has fallen in love at first sight with Riko!

My Review: This a pretty cute drama, though nothing spectacular. The lead couple, Riko and Naoki were pretty cute, but Naoki was too damn gentle for me. I liked the supporting couple - Mai and Shuji muuuch better. They were so cute and quirky! lol It's a short and sweet without too much angst. Some of the characters are more interesting than others. I liked Mai and found Shuji adorable. Yoyogi was also an interesting character, with his gangster, badass cheating ways! lmao Utsunomiya was also fun because everyone thought he was gay, since he's "awkward" with girls. Buzzer Beat is an okay watch if you currently don't have something delicious on your menu at the moment. It's quick and to the point.

Screenshots:

LMAO! Episode 3: That's Shuji-kun buried under that sand!! 

Episode 4: BEST FRIEND HUG!!! Part 1

 Episode 4: BEST FRIEND HUG!!! Part 2

Episode 4: Uh-Oh! Caught a- cheating!!!

Episode 5: Riko & Naoki! Cutest Scene! 

Episode 5: Riko & Naoki

Episode 7: YUP!! A J-drama with REAL KISSING!!!

Episode 8: After a sleep-over...totally not the way you're thinking! :)

Epsiode 10: I like their easy companionship in the drama best. 

You don't alot of that in J-dramas!

Episode 10: More cuddling!

Episode 10: Cuddles!

Mary Stayed Out All Night (KDrama)

Another Drama Review!!

Mary Stayed Out All Night

Genre: Romance, comedy
Episodes: 16 

Synopsis: Wi Mae Ri is the cheerful, pragmatic daughter of a failed businessman who had grown used to being constantly on the move to escape from debtors. She becomes fast friends with the free-spirited indie singer Kang Moo Kyul when she nearly ran him over in a car. Meanwhile, her father Wi Dae Han is saved from his debtors by his old friend, Jung Suk, who had just returned from considerable success in the Japanese entertainment industry. Jung Suk, who had harboured a secret love for Mae Ri's mother, sets up a deal with Dae Han to have Mae Ri marry his son, Jung In. In her desperate to escape this predicament, Mae Ri begs Moo Kyul to pose as her husband, and finds herself in even more trouble than before when her father proposes a 100-day period in which she has to divide her time equally between Moo Kyul and Jung In, after which she has to decide who to marry.(from drama-wiki)

My Review: Sigh....I realllllly really enjoyed this one. I should've known as soon as I saw that my honey-baby Jang Geum Seuk was a lead that it'll be a good one--and it was! It had everything that I love in a drama. Excellent characters who are real and lovable, an intriguing plot that has you riveted from the first episode to the last, strong emotion, and tons of humor. The characters of Moo Kyul and Mae Ri were so damn adorable together!!! And even though they had their ups and downs they stayed true to one another. There wasn't too much of the angst that I hate in alot of drama. Myoo Kyul and Mae Ri admitted their feelings for one another fairly early on, which I love. The other love interests Jung In and Seo Joon weren't manipulative and/or vindictive, so you were able to love them too. This is a most DEFINITE must-watch and I know there are TONS of other reviews saying the same! So, go give it a try, already! 

Below are a few screenshots, mostly from earlier eps...cause I got too damn engrossed to stop and take screenshots of the later episodes!! It was that good!!

 Ep. 3: Myoo Kyul says: "Ah..You totally look like the cat from Shrek". LMAO! That line was too damn funny!

 Ep. 5- Mae Ri's drunk daddy held up by his two son-in-laws! lol Husband Jung and Husband Kang!

 Ep 1: Drunk Myoo Kyul! Giving "flowers" to an equally drunk Mae Ri! lol How cute is he? DAMN CUTE!

Why Why Love (Taiwanese)

Hey Guys,

I'm back again for another drama review. Today's drama is a 15 episode long Taiwanese drama called WHY WHY LOVE. Rainie, Kingone and Mike He from DEVIL BESIDE YOU make another appearance in a heartwrentching tale of love, death, hardship and friendship.

Here's the summary from mysoju.com:
Tong Jia Di needs a life besides work, paying down family debt, and more work. So her best friend Jiang Xiao Nan sneaks in a “Love” coupon in Jia Di’s raffle box praying that the lucky guy who draws it will sweep Jia Di off her feet. As it so happens, Huo Yan, the compassionate manager Jia Di has secret crush on, is the lucky guy. But, tho' the prince can exchange the coupon for Cinderella’s love, it doesn’t mean he will, especially when his devilish younger brother is determined to exchange his “Master/Angel” coupon for her servitude.

The summary DOESNOT do the drama justice. This series will make you laugh and cry and sometimes both. It's also highly addicting. I watched all 15 episodes in three days!!! It's captivating from episode # 1!!!

Looney Express gives Why Why Love a 5/5!!! It's another FAVORITE!

Romantic Princess (Taiwanese Drama)

Hello Folks,
It's that time again! And NO, it's not my period. HARDY HARRHAR!
It's DRAMA REVIEW TIME!

I've recently watched the 13 episode long Taiwanese drama, Romantic Princess. It's spins the tale of the long lost grand daughter of the richest man in Asia. Raised in the middle class family, Xiao Mai is shocked and upset to find a limo in front of her house and being forced to live in a mansion with four very handsome guys(kyaa!). It gets even worst, as the sole hier to her grandfather corporation, she must marry his chosen successor Jin, who happens to be a jerk. What'll happen next you ask? What the drama, DUH!

Here's the summary from mysoju.com (where I get my drama fix):
Adopted by middle classed parents, Mai has always had a dream to be an heiress. Who knew that one day this dream would come true. Mai's biological grandfather is the head of a prestigous aristocratic family and after many years of searching, he finally finds his long lost granddaughter. As she starts her life as an heiress, everyday is filled with excitement, however, everything seems a bit different from what she had imagined them to be.

Even though, it was a great drama, the ending wasn't anything like what I expected. It was sort of boring compared to the rest of the drama, which was highly exciting!

Looney Express hereby gives Romantic Princess a 3.5/5.

Drama Review: Fated to love You

Hello Folks,
Todays's drama is Fated to Love you, which was one of the 20 recommended drama series on my soju.com (where i watch all my drama).

I've just finished watching the season finale and It was beautiful. This drama is totally going down on my fave list. The characters were completely loveable and easy to relate to. It was a truly beautiful story with an even more beautiful ending.

Here's the summary from mysoju.com:
A really unfashionable working class girl Chen Xin Yi has the desire to tie down her handsome boyfriend to be with her. Due to certain reasons, her boyfriend gets her to go on a love cruise and she started to ponder on how to lose her virginity and tie down her boyfriend. Xin Yi ended up getting drunk and went into Ji Cun Xi's room. Cun Xi is the sole male heir to his family's company and has been in love with his girlfriend, Anna, for a long time. He planned to propose to Anna on the boat but she didn't turn up on the cruise. An island owner added drugs into Cun Xi's drink and Cun Xi became disorientated and returned to his own room. Xin Yi and Cun Xi end up having a one night stand. Xin Yi later finds out that she's pregnant and Cun Xi's grandmother forces them to get married. Will a couple forced to marry for the sake of their unborn child find love with each other?

This summary only tells how it all begins. The drama is much more emotionally exciting.

This drama gets a 5/5 from Looney Express Review. Watch it here (http://www.mysoju.com/fated-to-love-you/), I guarantee you'll love it as much as I do! *CHEESE*