Reviews
I'm tired of this nonsense. My tags are getting ridiculous, and if someone wanted my opinion they would ask for it (or check this new tag).
American dramas:
30 Rock -- I fought this show for a long long time. My friend would always tell me to watch it, but I didn't exactly hold his opinion in high regard, so I always left the room when 30 Rock came on. I have since found that this show can be very funny at times. The episodes are really hit and miss though---some of them are hilarious and you're glad you watched, other times you feel like you wasted a half hour. Its worth a try. Sometimes, as I said, its well worth it.
Burn Notice--This show is interesting and usually funny. Haven't seen it in a long time... The guy used to be a spy, but now he's a free agent, but he's always getting into trouble because of old friends or whatever. He's very cool-headed and smart and funny. there seems to be an unfortunate theme of repeating plots, but the show is worth a watch or two.
**Community--I basically watch every show on NBC on Thursday nights, beginning with this show. Community is fresher and more clever than The Office. The characters sort of change from episode to episode, but that enables them to do a lot more than other shows. Definitely recommend.
The Event -- I heard this was the new LOST, so I watched the first 6 or so episodes. I was interested at first, but then I lost that interest... It involves aliens and conspiracy. I'm not sure if I will pursue again.
**House--Duh, everybody loves this show. I think the show is interesting--it doesn't always seem realistic and usually they just want to disgust us as much as possible, but House is certainly a unique character. I like logic.
**Lost-- This is a must-see show, honestly. I know everybody says its hard to get into but you HAVE TO start at the beginning! Don't just jump in anywhere you want. You'll just confuse yourself. Season 5 was a little weird and a lot of Season 6 was confusing as well, but I have no complaints about the series finale. Granted, I have only watched that episode once because I don't want to have a problem with the way the show ended, but really, I think they did an admirable job of ending so popular a show, and some of the episodes were sooooo gooood!. WATCH!
**NCIS-- I had a very passionate affair with this show in summer 2009 --lovely USA plays reruns of House and NCIS all day long. I really like the characters. The plot is bound to get boring because its a crime-detective show, but I like to see the main characters evolve. I especially like Tony and his serious face. :P
**The Office-- This show is a classic. It has regrettably gone downhill at points in its history, but it is still doing surprisingly well today. It is nice fun. I don't think its necessary to elaborate further; I think everyone already watches it...
Outsourced --I like the diversity NBC is going for, but this show is pretty lame, and doubtlessly the least funny of NBC's three hour block of comedy TV on Thursday nights.
Parks and Recreation -- I have to acknowledge this show at least because its about my home state of Indiana. It is sometimes entertaining, but I'm a little surprised its still on the air. I might recommend that you go out to a park or do some recreational activities rather than watch this.
*Perfect Couples--This show just premiered so I've seen the first two episodes. The first was definitely funny and got me hooked. The second episode fell a little more towards un-family friendly subjects. It was amusing, and I will check out a few more episodes before I judge.
Korean dramas:
*~A Love to Kill
8.5/10
I recommend this because Rain was really impressive. This drama is very dark and it doesn't have a happy ending, but Rain is worth it. If you've seen Full House, you can appreciate the spectrum of acting ability he demonstrates by being this character. I highly rec; I know I've watched some of the episodes multiple times. Rain, Shin Min Ah, Lee Ki Woo. A+
~Beethoven Virus
Another Jang Geun Seok drama, what the heck. Only watched a few episodes, may watch more later. I'm musically inclined so it was interesting to see Korean orchestra and I know it was really popular. There was nothing that really drew me in that I can remember, though.
~**Boys Over Flowers
9/10
Nice attempt to do better than the Japanese. I like Goo Hyesun more now than I did while watching the drama; it was probably HyunJoong that drew me in, and he did an admirable job. The Korean version is a little more forgiving than the manga itself and ends great for everybody. :D Lee Minho, Kim Hyun Joong, Kim Bum, Goo Hyesun, Kim Joon.
**~Coffee Prince/The 1st Shop of Coffee Prince
9/10
I love this drama and I've watched the entire thing multiple times. What's not to like? Its realistic, its adult, its probing and emotional. Its good, trust me. What's most interesting is that the main male has to face the possibility of being gay, and its cool to see how he handles it (or doesnt). At least, I thought it was interesting. <3 Yun Eunhye and Gong Yoo.
~Dream
6.5/10
This drama is about boxing...That's about it for the summary. I was drawn in because of Joo Jin Mo, Son Dambi, and Kim Bum, but I watched 6 episodes and I'm still bored. I don't think I will be continuing.
~Full House
7.5/10
This was my first drama so understandably I'm a little attached? I recommend, HOWEVER, you have to keep in mind that there is the typical stupidness that gets in the way of rightful romances. Just put up with it and love the lovable Rain and Song Hye Ko.
~Heading to the Ground
1/10
I watched Ep.1 pt. 1 of 5 and thats where I stopped. I think Yunho has gotten worse at acting. Much worse. I hear that it gets better, but that probably won't convince me to watch.
~Hong Gil Dong
Never did finish this. I got about halfway through and will try to finish. I like Kang Ji Hwan and I like Jang Geun Seok even with his baby face. The drama's a little weird because its historical drama but it has elements of modern times, apparently. Sung Yuri is so dumb but so cute and clueless.
~Hwang Jin Yi
9/10
I recommend. I watched 2 or 3 episodes on a recommendation and just couldn't get into it but I eventually came back to it and now I'm glad I watched. This is the same story as the movie by the same name with a few differences. Ha Ji Won was great in this, in my opinion. Jang Geun Seok left a little to be desired, Lee Jae Won was cool, but honestly it was Lee Shi Hwan that caught my attention, haha. Too bad he didn't get more time. I think this drama is beautiful because of the arts, mostly dancing since I'm not a big fan of traditional Korean music. Korean tragic romance is tragic.
~IRIS
Ugh comes recommended but I never did get beyond a few episodes. Lots of action.
~Let's Go to School, Sangdoo!
5/10
Never watch this drama.
Even though you like Rain.
Its not worth it.
~Let's Go to the Beach!
6.5/10
I didnt get to finish this drama either because at the time I was watching it, I couldn't find the rest of the episodes, haha. The girl was so dumb (like Ariel Lin in ISWAK) but for some reason I liked the drama. Jun Jin is in it too. I...recommend if you're really bored.
*~Lie to Me
8.5/10
Eun Hye and Kang Ji Hwan. This drama was pretty good. The end of the drama was kind of weird because everything had been resolved but suddenly the female lead had some imaginary personal problems that had to be resolved. Anyway, I honestly don't remember much about it. It was okay.
**~Mischievous Kiss
8.5/10
Hyunjoong, you are so cute. So is the girl, though I don't know her name. This is the Korean version of It Started With a Kiss, and its much easier to watch, from what I remember. High school drama, but it was fun and entertaining.
~Paradise Ranch
8/10
Changmin and Lee Yeon Hee. It was good... Horses and ranches don't really draw me (I guess it was Changmin then). Changmin is not a great actor yet, but it was cute.
**~Personal Preference
9/10
Lee Min Ho. I definitely liked this drama. I'm surprised because the main woman is apparently popular but I'd never heard of her and didn't think she was very elegant or beautiful. But she's cool! I don't remember why, but I liked the drama. Classic guy-gets-mistaken-to-be-gay (how did this become common in Korean dramas -_-)
**~Secret Garden
9.7/10
I'm not actually sure if I would call this my favorite Korean drama, but I really loved it the first time through. I am a huge fan of Ha Ji Won, and Hyun Bin is really likeable even if his good lucks are not something I would dream up. I decided against watching this drama several times because of the fantasy elements but I ended up going back and watching it, and I didn't regret it at all. I think I cried a lot at the end. Watch!
**~Shining Inheritance
9/10
This drama ended up being pretty awesome. I really enjoyed and I'm kind of sad its over. Han Hyojoo was really cool and I thought her character was really consistent (she cried all the time, but you can't blame her). She was too nice sometimes, but that's not a crime. XD I also fell in love with Lee Seungki. I did not know of his existence beforehand and I wasn't exactly endeared to his character at the beginning of the drama--he was a total douche bag and unapologetic at best. But he evolved back into the loveable guy his family once knew him to be. The worst parts about this drama were 1. everyone was freaking related and didn't know it 2. the evil stepmother and stepsister were a waste of time and breath. i hated when the plot turned to them. 3. Han Hyojoo's father in the drama also got on my nerves because he was clueless and a coward. That sounds like a lot of bad things, but this drama is just very recent to me. Junse in the drama was a totally cool guy and I love him. This is worth watching, all 28 episodes.
**~Sungkyunkwan Scandal
9/10
Yoochun (yes really!), Song Joongki, and Yoo Ah In, all of whom are adorable and adorable. I literally just finished watching this so its fresh in my mind--there is some downtime (I actually skipped the first 4 episodes); lots of scholarly stuff, but its interesting and fun. Classic girl-dresses-as-a-boy theme (-_-). Recommend.
~Witch Yoo Hee
6/10
I didn't watch this whole drama either. Han Ga In is cute and all but I just didn't really like the plot or Jung whatshisname.
Korean movies:
*~100 Days with Mr. Arrogant
9/10
Ha Ji Won and Lee Jaewon, aka the stars of the Hwang Jin Yi drama! It was really funny watching this movie and seeing Jaewon without a scholarly beard and traditional Korean clothing. Of course he's handsome either way, but I think modern wear suits him better. This movie has a lot of crude Korean humor (you know like...pooping and picking your nose) but its kind of for a young crowd. Anyway, I thought it was hilarious, and you should def. watch it. watched it twice. its becka-approved.
~200 Pounds Beauty
9/10
I've seen this movie twice because I liked it so much. Ah-young's voice is gorgous, and so is Joo Jinmo's face (lol). This movie is funny and addresses plastic surgery, which is oh-so-popular in Korea. Although I think the moral of the story is a little regrettable, I guess it can't be avoided in modern consumer-happy South Korea. Good movie. its joe-approved.
~A Millionaire's First Love
7/10
Actually, maybe THIS was the first Korean movie I saw. I don't remember much other than the song DBSK did for it... it was romantic and sad. So...if thats what you're looking for, then watch this. Its along the lines of "A Walk to Remember." Edit: IT'S HYUNBIN, I HAD NO IDEA.
*~Antique Bakery
7.5/10
The characters were all cute and the interaction between the guys was really funny, but the underlying mystery was kind of confusing. There were a few parts that were really girly and cutesy and the filming was strange, and the ending! Wow the ending wasn't exactly what I expected. Anyway, I enjoyed it. XD It has that japanese dude from Coffee Prince :P
~Attack on the Pin-Up Boys
7/10
I can't remember who I watched this with, but it was completely retarded. Lol. All of Suju is in high school and there's an attacker who throws poop at pretty boys. This movie is worth it just to see Suju's acting skills. But be warned...its just very kid humor friendly. XD
*~Guns & Talks
9/10
This movie was about some guys who live together and they're assassins and a couple of them fall in love or something and can't kill who they're supposed to kill and there's a cop after them and its just amusing. Its pretty entertaining. its bryan-approved.
*~Heaven's Postman
8/10
Um, it only took like 3 years for this movie to come out into the public. I came upon it somewhat by accident. Its a very cute movie/drama that I wish had lasted longer. Jaejoong was a little less experienced than I thought he would be in front of the camera, and Han Hyo Joo had a role she is comfortable with (ie. has played before) but I would recommend this. Its cute.
**~Hwang Jin Yi
9.5/10
The instant I began this movie I knew it was going to be good, and I even got MY MOTHER to watch it, and Asian things confuzzle her. I missed Song Hye Ko, and she and the main guy were so lovely together. The plot was beautiful, the historical aspects were believable, the romance was angsty just the way Koreans like it, and it was just awesome. Highly recommend. its MY MOTHER-APPROVED.
*~Love So Divine
9/10
Haha, this was one of the first Korean movies I ever watched, and my first Ha Ji Won flick. Also, Kwon Sang Woo! This movie was delightful and entertaining and romantic comedy perfection. twice watched and my brother-approved (sort of).
~My Sassy Girl
6/10
Everybody loves this movie, so its blasphemous to give it a bad review. I honestly didn't even watch the second half of this flick. It was kind of funny, but I don't remember much and I heard the end was depressing, so...I don't know what else to say. XD OH P.S. they remade this in Hollywood with Colin Ferrell and some girl. I bet it sucked XD
~The Classic
7/10
This movie was interesting because it told two stories in different time periods. The guys were so cute, haha ^^ I remember the slinky dude from A Love to Kill (Lee Ki Woo!) was goofy. Anyway the story was cute. Good movie for a rainy day, I think.
**~The Good, The Bad, and The Weird
8.3/10
I recommend this movie. If Lee Byung Hyun isn't enough, this movie boasts pretty much every genre, and while that might sound confusing, I thought it was entertaining. Its about a treasure hunter, and a deadly treasure hunter, and a bounty hunter. It involves treasure maps, the desert of Manchuria, an army, guns, and trains. Its like a Western, but in Asia.
**~The King and the Clown
8/10
When is a Lee Junki movie not good? He's an awesome actor, and very convincing as an effeminate clown. I remember this movie being very long, but it was good. Definitely good if you like historical dramas (which I seem to watch a lot of). The ending especially was really intense; like I said, Koreans like their love stories tragic and touching. This is kind of a must-see for all Asian movie fans.
~Virgin Snow
6.5/10
Oh wait...remember what I just said about L. Junki movies? Yeah, forget that. I didn't really like this movie, and it was actually a chore to finish it. Its about a Korean guy and a Japanese girl falling in love and yeah its cute, but I just wasn't really into it. The Japanese girl is from something else...but I can't remember what. Only watch if you're really really bored.
Japanese dramas:
**~Atashinchi no Danshi
8.5/10
Fun, fun, fun. Horikita Maki is the favorite from Hana Kimi and she's just as Japanese and cute. There are also TONS of guys in this drama. Basically, she has to go live with a castle full of guys and be their "mother" while helping them overcome personal issues and her own. What a horrible summary, but yeah, its really good, and is really funny. Japanese people always surprise me because things happen that I wouldn't expect to be funny but they are. The drawbacks to this drama are that Japanese people seem to always abbreviate stories (whereas Koreans lengthen them, and Taiwanese people make unabridged versions). I feel like they could have made a lot of situations and scenes more meaningful or addressed them better, but everything just seems to solve itself. Also, there is some really goofy and dumb stuff going on with the assistant, Tokita san. He's a douche. Anyway, I recommend this, and its only 11 episodes.
~Boku no Imouto
I think I watched like two episodes. Don't remember anything else...
*~Hana Kimi
8/10
I'm automatically a fan of Oguri Shun, so yeah. This drama was good. Its pretty laidback and I don't remember much. There's some typical Japanese goofy stuff--magicians and martial artists, I dunno. Its good.
**~Hana Yori Dango
8.5/10
Yes. Watch this and never forget the Japanese do it better.
**~Hana Yori Dango 2
8.5/10
Yes, just as good or better than the first and never forget the Japanese do it better.
**~Hanayome to Papa
9/10
This thing is adorable. Its about a girl who wants to escape her father's overprotectiveness, a boy who loves her and tries to get the father's approval, and the father who tries to let her go. Its so cute and so worth it. I definitely recommend (and make sure you have tissues ready!) :)
~Hotaru no Hikari
6/10
Kept watching this drama even though it kind of bored me. I eventually stopped around ep. 7. I don't remember much. XD I think a guy and a girl lived together because of some predicament...but the girl liked another guy.
~Nobuta wo Produce
Uh??? I don't remember this at all.
~Zettai Kareshi
6/10
Watched about 3 episodes and couldn't take the weirdness anymore. I watched it on rec but I just didn't like the robot's roboticness. Sorry! ><
Japanese movies:
**~Hana Yori Dango Final
9.5/10
I didn't know how they could possibly have outdone the dramas but they did. I loved both dramas and this movie. Roadtrip in American West oh yeahhh.
~Moon Child
7/10
Gackt is hilarious but I'll admit this flick was a little too sci-fi for me. Hyde is cool as a vampire and all, but you know. I recommend, but not reallllyyy highly. :) OH if you're a Wang Li Hom fan, def. watch ^_^
**~Nana
9/10
This movie rocked and I highly recommend.
~Nana 2
8i/10
This movie didn't rock quite as much as the first and if I remember correctly the ending was a let-down but thats probably because the manga isn't finished, right? Maybe one day they'll do some more movies. It was still good, I think.
Taiwanese dramas:
~Brown Sugar Macchiato
6/10
I really didn't get far in this drama at all. In fact I may not have finished the first episode. It was just too...Taiwanese. >D
*~Devil Beside You
7/10
Mike He and Rainie. This was cute and funny. Mike was creepy but hot at the same time, it was weird. Again, its been forever since I watched so I don't remember much, but I think its worth watching.
~Hot Shot
8/10
YES! I need to finish this drama! I kept waiting to watch it with my friend because I love Jerry Yan and she loves Show Luo but screw that! I'm watching it! This drama is funny and its still a little hokey at times because of its nationality (lol) but I love them together and OH there's also Wu Zhun *hehheheheh* EDIT: I'm stuck around episode 5/6?
~It Started With a Kiss
6.5/10
Um, I don't know. The guy is cute but Ariel Lin is so dumb in this, I can't stand it, and around episode 7 something weird happened and I got really confused so I stopped watching. *shrug*
~Meteor Garden
7/10
We initially watched this because we thought it was Hana Yori Dango but obviously its not. We still got some kicks out of it, what with Jerry Yan looking like Changmin's twin from the '90's. Its pretty cute. Watch if you want, but please don't plan to watch the 2nd installment.
~Meteor Garden 2
4/10
Um, so. This is 31 episodes long. I started watching over a year and a half ago? Two years ago? I've never finished it. Like I said, the Taiwanese for some reason think dramas are better when they're hella long. The first episode was really awesome. Then I suggest you skip to the last episode (which I haven't seen) in hopes that there is a happy resolution.
~Why Why Love
7/10
Another Mike He drama and I'm having some trouble differentiating it from Devil Beside You. This one is more about adults, business deals and fighting brothers. I think Mike is an avid motorcyclist. Anyway..it was okay, but I don't remember much.
American dramas:
30 Rock -- I fought this show for a long long time. My friend would always tell me to watch it, but I didn't exactly hold his opinion in high regard, so I always left the room when 30 Rock came on. I have since found that this show can be very funny at times. The episodes are really hit and miss though---some of them are hilarious and you're glad you watched, other times you feel like you wasted a half hour. Its worth a try. Sometimes, as I said, its well worth it.
Burn Notice--This show is interesting and usually funny. Haven't seen it in a long time... The guy used to be a spy, but now he's a free agent, but he's always getting into trouble because of old friends or whatever. He's very cool-headed and smart and funny. there seems to be an unfortunate theme of repeating plots, but the show is worth a watch or two.
**Community--I basically watch every show on NBC on Thursday nights, beginning with this show. Community is fresher and more clever than The Office. The characters sort of change from episode to episode, but that enables them to do a lot more than other shows. Definitely recommend.
The Event -- I heard this was the new LOST, so I watched the first 6 or so episodes. I was interested at first, but then I lost that interest... It involves aliens and conspiracy. I'm not sure if I will pursue again.
**House--Duh, everybody loves this show. I think the show is interesting--it doesn't always seem realistic and usually they just want to disgust us as much as possible, but House is certainly a unique character. I like logic.
**Lost-- This is a must-see show, honestly. I know everybody says its hard to get into but you HAVE TO start at the beginning! Don't just jump in anywhere you want. You'll just confuse yourself. Season 5 was a little weird and a lot of Season 6 was confusing as well, but I have no complaints about the series finale. Granted, I have only watched that episode once because I don't want to have a problem with the way the show ended, but really, I think they did an admirable job of ending so popular a show, and some of the episodes were sooooo gooood!. WATCH!
**NCIS-- I had a very passionate affair with this show in summer 2009 --lovely USA plays reruns of House and NCIS all day long. I really like the characters. The plot is bound to get boring because its a crime-detective show, but I like to see the main characters evolve. I especially like Tony and his serious face. :P
**The Office-- This show is a classic. It has regrettably gone downhill at points in its history, but it is still doing surprisingly well today. It is nice fun. I don't think its necessary to elaborate further; I think everyone already watches it...
Outsourced --I like the diversity NBC is going for, but this show is pretty lame, and doubtlessly the least funny of NBC's three hour block of comedy TV on Thursday nights.
Parks and Recreation -- I have to acknowledge this show at least because its about my home state of Indiana. It is sometimes entertaining, but I'm a little surprised its still on the air. I might recommend that you go out to a park or do some recreational activities rather than watch this.
*Perfect Couples--This show just premiered so I've seen the first two episodes. The first was definitely funny and got me hooked. The second episode fell a little more towards un-family friendly subjects. It was amusing, and I will check out a few more episodes before I judge.
Korean dramas:
*~A Love to Kill
8.5/10
I recommend this because Rain was really impressive. This drama is very dark and it doesn't have a happy ending, but Rain is worth it. If you've seen Full House, you can appreciate the spectrum of acting ability he demonstrates by being this character. I highly rec; I know I've watched some of the episodes multiple times. Rain, Shin Min Ah, Lee Ki Woo. A+
~Beethoven Virus
Another Jang Geun Seok drama, what the heck. Only watched a few episodes, may watch more later. I'm musically inclined so it was interesting to see Korean orchestra and I know it was really popular. There was nothing that really drew me in that I can remember, though.
~**Boys Over Flowers
9/10
Nice attempt to do better than the Japanese. I like Goo Hyesun more now than I did while watching the drama; it was probably HyunJoong that drew me in, and he did an admirable job. The Korean version is a little more forgiving than the manga itself and ends great for everybody. :D Lee Minho, Kim Hyun Joong, Kim Bum, Goo Hyesun, Kim Joon.
**~Coffee Prince/The 1st Shop of Coffee Prince
9/10
I love this drama and I've watched the entire thing multiple times. What's not to like? Its realistic, its adult, its probing and emotional. Its good, trust me. What's most interesting is that the main male has to face the possibility of being gay, and its cool to see how he handles it (or doesnt). At least, I thought it was interesting. <3 Yun Eunhye and Gong Yoo.
~Dream
6.5/10
This drama is about boxing...That's about it for the summary. I was drawn in because of Joo Jin Mo, Son Dambi, and Kim Bum, but I watched 6 episodes and I'm still bored. I don't think I will be continuing.
~Full House
7.5/10
This was my first drama so understandably I'm a little attached? I recommend, HOWEVER, you have to keep in mind that there is the typical stupidness that gets in the way of rightful romances. Just put up with it and love the lovable Rain and Song Hye Ko.
~Heading to the Ground
1/10
I watched Ep.1 pt. 1 of 5 and thats where I stopped. I think Yunho has gotten worse at acting. Much worse. I hear that it gets better, but that probably won't convince me to watch.
~Hong Gil Dong
Never did finish this. I got about halfway through and will try to finish. I like Kang Ji Hwan and I like Jang Geun Seok even with his baby face. The drama's a little weird because its historical drama but it has elements of modern times, apparently. Sung Yuri is so dumb but so cute and clueless.
~Hwang Jin Yi
9/10
I recommend. I watched 2 or 3 episodes on a recommendation and just couldn't get into it but I eventually came back to it and now I'm glad I watched. This is the same story as the movie by the same name with a few differences. Ha Ji Won was great in this, in my opinion. Jang Geun Seok left a little to be desired, Lee Jae Won was cool, but honestly it was Lee Shi Hwan that caught my attention, haha. Too bad he didn't get more time. I think this drama is beautiful because of the arts, mostly dancing since I'm not a big fan of traditional Korean music. Korean tragic romance is tragic.
~IRIS
Ugh comes recommended but I never did get beyond a few episodes. Lots of action.
~Let's Go to School, Sangdoo!
5/10
Never watch this drama.
Even though you like Rain.
Its not worth it.
~Let's Go to the Beach!
6.5/10
I didnt get to finish this drama either because at the time I was watching it, I couldn't find the rest of the episodes, haha. The girl was so dumb (like Ariel Lin in ISWAK) but for some reason I liked the drama. Jun Jin is in it too. I...recommend if you're really bored.
*~Lie to Me
8.5/10
Eun Hye and Kang Ji Hwan. This drama was pretty good. The end of the drama was kind of weird because everything had been resolved but suddenly the female lead had some imaginary personal problems that had to be resolved. Anyway, I honestly don't remember much about it. It was okay.
**~Mischievous Kiss
8.5/10
Hyunjoong, you are so cute. So is the girl, though I don't know her name. This is the Korean version of It Started With a Kiss, and its much easier to watch, from what I remember. High school drama, but it was fun and entertaining.
~Paradise Ranch
8/10
Changmin and Lee Yeon Hee. It was good... Horses and ranches don't really draw me (I guess it was Changmin then). Changmin is not a great actor yet, but it was cute.
**~Personal Preference
9/10
Lee Min Ho. I definitely liked this drama. I'm surprised because the main woman is apparently popular but I'd never heard of her and didn't think she was very elegant or beautiful. But she's cool! I don't remember why, but I liked the drama. Classic guy-gets-mistaken-to-be-gay (how did this become common in Korean dramas -_-)
**~Secret Garden
9.7/10
I'm not actually sure if I would call this my favorite Korean drama, but I really loved it the first time through. I am a huge fan of Ha Ji Won, and Hyun Bin is really likeable even if his good lucks are not something I would dream up. I decided against watching this drama several times because of the fantasy elements but I ended up going back and watching it, and I didn't regret it at all. I think I cried a lot at the end. Watch!
**~Shining Inheritance
9/10
This drama ended up being pretty awesome. I really enjoyed and I'm kind of sad its over. Han Hyojoo was really cool and I thought her character was really consistent (she cried all the time, but you can't blame her). She was too nice sometimes, but that's not a crime. XD I also fell in love with Lee Seungki. I did not know of his existence beforehand and I wasn't exactly endeared to his character at the beginning of the drama--he was a total douche bag and unapologetic at best. But he evolved back into the loveable guy his family once knew him to be. The worst parts about this drama were 1. everyone was freaking related and didn't know it 2. the evil stepmother and stepsister were a waste of time and breath. i hated when the plot turned to them. 3. Han Hyojoo's father in the drama also got on my nerves because he was clueless and a coward. That sounds like a lot of bad things, but this drama is just very recent to me. Junse in the drama was a totally cool guy and I love him. This is worth watching, all 28 episodes.
**~Sungkyunkwan Scandal
9/10
Yoochun (yes really!), Song Joongki, and Yoo Ah In, all of whom are adorable and adorable. I literally just finished watching this so its fresh in my mind--there is some downtime (I actually skipped the first 4 episodes); lots of scholarly stuff, but its interesting and fun. Classic girl-dresses-as-a-boy theme (-_-). Recommend.
~Witch Yoo Hee
6/10
I didn't watch this whole drama either. Han Ga In is cute and all but I just didn't really like the plot or Jung whatshisname.
Korean movies:
*~100 Days with Mr. Arrogant
9/10
Ha Ji Won and Lee Jaewon, aka the stars of the Hwang Jin Yi drama! It was really funny watching this movie and seeing Jaewon without a scholarly beard and traditional Korean clothing. Of course he's handsome either way, but I think modern wear suits him better. This movie has a lot of crude Korean humor (you know like...pooping and picking your nose) but its kind of for a young crowd. Anyway, I thought it was hilarious, and you should def. watch it. watched it twice. its becka-approved.
~200 Pounds Beauty
9/10
I've seen this movie twice because I liked it so much. Ah-young's voice is gorgous, and so is Joo Jinmo's face (lol). This movie is funny and addresses plastic surgery, which is oh-so-popular in Korea. Although I think the moral of the story is a little regrettable, I guess it can't be avoided in modern consumer-happy South Korea. Good movie. its joe-approved.
~A Millionaire's First Love
7/10
Actually, maybe THIS was the first Korean movie I saw. I don't remember much other than the song DBSK did for it... it was romantic and sad. So...if thats what you're looking for, then watch this. Its along the lines of "A Walk to Remember." Edit: IT'S HYUNBIN, I HAD NO IDEA.
*~Antique Bakery
7.5/10
The characters were all cute and the interaction between the guys was really funny, but the underlying mystery was kind of confusing. There were a few parts that were really girly and cutesy and the filming was strange, and the ending! Wow the ending wasn't exactly what I expected. Anyway, I enjoyed it. XD It has that japanese dude from Coffee Prince :P
~Attack on the Pin-Up Boys
7/10
I can't remember who I watched this with, but it was completely retarded. Lol. All of Suju is in high school and there's an attacker who throws poop at pretty boys. This movie is worth it just to see Suju's acting skills. But be warned...its just very kid humor friendly. XD
*~Guns & Talks
9/10
This movie was about some guys who live together and they're assassins and a couple of them fall in love or something and can't kill who they're supposed to kill and there's a cop after them and its just amusing. Its pretty entertaining. its bryan-approved.
*~Heaven's Postman
8/10
Um, it only took like 3 years for this movie to come out into the public. I came upon it somewhat by accident. Its a very cute movie/drama that I wish had lasted longer. Jaejoong was a little less experienced than I thought he would be in front of the camera, and Han Hyo Joo had a role she is comfortable with (ie. has played before) but I would recommend this. Its cute.
**~Hwang Jin Yi
9.5/10
The instant I began this movie I knew it was going to be good, and I even got MY MOTHER to watch it, and Asian things confuzzle her. I missed Song Hye Ko, and she and the main guy were so lovely together. The plot was beautiful, the historical aspects were believable, the romance was angsty just the way Koreans like it, and it was just awesome. Highly recommend. its MY MOTHER-APPROVED.
*~Love So Divine
9/10
Haha, this was one of the first Korean movies I ever watched, and my first Ha Ji Won flick. Also, Kwon Sang Woo! This movie was delightful and entertaining and romantic comedy perfection. twice watched and my brother-approved (sort of).
~My Sassy Girl
6/10
Everybody loves this movie, so its blasphemous to give it a bad review. I honestly didn't even watch the second half of this flick. It was kind of funny, but I don't remember much and I heard the end was depressing, so...I don't know what else to say. XD OH P.S. they remade this in Hollywood with Colin Ferrell and some girl. I bet it sucked XD
~The Classic
7/10
This movie was interesting because it told two stories in different time periods. The guys were so cute, haha ^^ I remember the slinky dude from A Love to Kill (Lee Ki Woo!) was goofy. Anyway the story was cute. Good movie for a rainy day, I think.
**~The Good, The Bad, and The Weird
8.3/10
I recommend this movie. If Lee Byung Hyun isn't enough, this movie boasts pretty much every genre, and while that might sound confusing, I thought it was entertaining. Its about a treasure hunter, and a deadly treasure hunter, and a bounty hunter. It involves treasure maps, the desert of Manchuria, an army, guns, and trains. Its like a Western, but in Asia.
**~The King and the Clown
8/10
When is a Lee Junki movie not good? He's an awesome actor, and very convincing as an effeminate clown. I remember this movie being very long, but it was good. Definitely good if you like historical dramas (which I seem to watch a lot of). The ending especially was really intense; like I said, Koreans like their love stories tragic and touching. This is kind of a must-see for all Asian movie fans.
~Virgin Snow
6.5/10
Oh wait...remember what I just said about L. Junki movies? Yeah, forget that. I didn't really like this movie, and it was actually a chore to finish it. Its about a Korean guy and a Japanese girl falling in love and yeah its cute, but I just wasn't really into it. The Japanese girl is from something else...but I can't remember what. Only watch if you're really really bored.
Japanese dramas:
**~Atashinchi no Danshi
8.5/10
Fun, fun, fun. Horikita Maki is the favorite from Hana Kimi and she's just as Japanese and cute. There are also TONS of guys in this drama. Basically, she has to go live with a castle full of guys and be their "mother" while helping them overcome personal issues and her own. What a horrible summary, but yeah, its really good, and is really funny. Japanese people always surprise me because things happen that I wouldn't expect to be funny but they are. The drawbacks to this drama are that Japanese people seem to always abbreviate stories (whereas Koreans lengthen them, and Taiwanese people make unabridged versions). I feel like they could have made a lot of situations and scenes more meaningful or addressed them better, but everything just seems to solve itself. Also, there is some really goofy and dumb stuff going on with the assistant, Tokita san. He's a douche. Anyway, I recommend this, and its only 11 episodes.
~Boku no Imouto
I think I watched like two episodes. Don't remember anything else...
*~Hana Kimi
8/10
I'm automatically a fan of Oguri Shun, so yeah. This drama was good. Its pretty laidback and I don't remember much. There's some typical Japanese goofy stuff--magicians and martial artists, I dunno. Its good.
**~Hana Yori Dango
8.5/10
Yes. Watch this and never forget the Japanese do it better.
**~Hana Yori Dango 2
8.5/10
Yes, just as good or better than the first and never forget the Japanese do it better.
**~Hanayome to Papa
9/10
This thing is adorable. Its about a girl who wants to escape her father's overprotectiveness, a boy who loves her and tries to get the father's approval, and the father who tries to let her go. Its so cute and so worth it. I definitely recommend (and make sure you have tissues ready!) :)
~Hotaru no Hikari
6/10
Kept watching this drama even though it kind of bored me. I eventually stopped around ep. 7. I don't remember much. XD I think a guy and a girl lived together because of some predicament...but the girl liked another guy.
~Nobuta wo Produce
Uh??? I don't remember this at all.
~Zettai Kareshi
6/10
Watched about 3 episodes and couldn't take the weirdness anymore. I watched it on rec but I just didn't like the robot's roboticness. Sorry! ><
Japanese movies:
**~Hana Yori Dango Final
9.5/10
I didn't know how they could possibly have outdone the dramas but they did. I loved both dramas and this movie. Roadtrip in American West oh yeahhh.
~Moon Child
7/10
Gackt is hilarious but I'll admit this flick was a little too sci-fi for me. Hyde is cool as a vampire and all, but you know. I recommend, but not reallllyyy highly. :) OH if you're a Wang Li Hom fan, def. watch ^_^
**~Nana
9/10
This movie rocked and I highly recommend.
~Nana 2
8i/10
This movie didn't rock quite as much as the first and if I remember correctly the ending was a let-down but thats probably because the manga isn't finished, right? Maybe one day they'll do some more movies. It was still good, I think.
Taiwanese dramas:
~Brown Sugar Macchiato
6/10
I really didn't get far in this drama at all. In fact I may not have finished the first episode. It was just too...Taiwanese. >D
*~Devil Beside You
7/10
Mike He and Rainie. This was cute and funny. Mike was creepy but hot at the same time, it was weird. Again, its been forever since I watched so I don't remember much, but I think its worth watching.
~Hot Shot
8/10
YES! I need to finish this drama! I kept waiting to watch it with my friend because I love Jerry Yan and she loves Show Luo but screw that! I'm watching it! This drama is funny and its still a little hokey at times because of its nationality (lol) but I love them together and OH there's also Wu Zhun *hehheheheh* EDIT: I'm stuck around episode 5/6?
~It Started With a Kiss
6.5/10
Um, I don't know. The guy is cute but Ariel Lin is so dumb in this, I can't stand it, and around episode 7 something weird happened and I got really confused so I stopped watching. *shrug*
~Meteor Garden
7/10
We initially watched this because we thought it was Hana Yori Dango but obviously its not. We still got some kicks out of it, what with Jerry Yan looking like Changmin's twin from the '90's. Its pretty cute. Watch if you want, but please don't plan to watch the 2nd installment.
~Meteor Garden 2
4/10
Um, so. This is 31 episodes long. I started watching over a year and a half ago? Two years ago? I've never finished it. Like I said, the Taiwanese for some reason think dramas are better when they're hella long. The first episode was really awesome. Then I suggest you skip to the last episode (which I haven't seen) in hopes that there is a happy resolution.
~Why Why Love
7/10
Another Mike He drama and I'm having some trouble differentiating it from Devil Beside You. This one is more about adults, business deals and fighting brothers. I think Mike is an avid motorcyclist. Anyway..it was okay, but I don't remember much.