Man Crush Mondays

Hey everyone! Today we've come to chat about my Man Crush Monday...  Yoo Ah In!

 *Slow Clap*                                                                                                       *Slow Clap*

To be honest, I am a bit fuzzy on how I was exposed to the ever talented Yoo Ah In. So I am going to start this journey on the amazing drama Six Flying Dragons.

If I ever take part in a revolution and I overthrow the government... Six Flying Dragons made me do it. This was one of the most solidly written drama's I've ever watched.  I believe it's 50 episodes, and it was a Saeguk that delivered well beyond any expectation that I could fathom. A large driving force responsible for this excellence is Yoo Ah In's performance as Yi Bang-Won. This character was jovial, petulant, conniving, smart, innocent all at once. I've never seen a character like that before and I was sucked in. Every point Yi Bang-Won made, I believed wholeheartedly even when he advocating for the complete elimination of his competitors. After watching this drama, I deep in my K-drama blues and I went searching for anything and everything that Yoo Ah In performed in.

This leads me to watch "Secret Love Affair". Which happens to be the very FIRST K-drama review I ever did. Secret Love Affair I binged this drama and I was in a state of melancholy for a while. Yoo Ah In plays Lee Sun-Jae a piano prodigy who unapologetically falls in love with a married director and begins to have the most passionate affair I've ever seen. The chemistry between Yoo Ah In and Kim Hee Ae was electrifying. Every nerve-ending I had was sizzling as I watched them together. I'd never seen two actors go back and forth the way these two did. There was a poeticism in every facial expression made. If you haven't watched this drama, please go watch it. WARNING: It may give you serious unrealistic expectations about love, relationships...etc.

After Secret Love Affair I was more ravenous for Yoo Ah In performances. I happened on the movie Antique, and it may have been one of the happiest decisions I have ever made. Yang Ki Bum plays a boxer who is trying to figure out his life and winds up at this cake-shop. This movie has one of the most unique stories I've ever seen. I feel in love with the entire cast, and it gave me more actors to stalk so I stayed out of a drama rut for a while. This also introduced me to a theme that some Korean movies have, in which you think you're watching one story, and it develops and turns into a completely different genre, and leaves you completely mind blown!

The creme de la creme of all performances done by Yoo Ah In for me... has to be Chicago Typewriter! Good Drama-gods... was this one of the most spectacular drama's I've ever seen! The seamless navigation of time was beyond anything I've watched before. Han Se-Joo plays a writer who encounters a ghost from his past life, and the reincarnated love of his life, all while trying not to lose his mind and his career. The only actor who could pull this role off is Yoo Ah In. I don't know much about his actual personality, but I bought this role hook line and sinker. The range that Yoo Ah In tapped into while playing both Han Se-Joo and Seo Hwi Young was magnificent to see. My heart was so full while watching this drama. Everything about it was pleasing to the soul, and it was one of the most inspiring works of arts that I've ever come across.

There are some special mentions to be said! I really enjoyed the movie "Like for Likes " it's a simple rom-com that made me laugh a lot. Tough as Iron was a heartwarming story that I would also recommend. He Who Can't Marry was a drama early in Yoo Ah In's career and it was really nice to see how far he's developed as an actor. There is also the famous Sungkyunkwan Scandal drama, I couldn't get into it, but I've read nothing but great reviews and I'll try it in the future. Also Jang Ok Jung drama was something I didn't finish but I remember enjoying the performances a lot.

That's it Drama Lovers, I hope this sparks some joy to your day, and as always Happy Drama Watching.

Woman Crush Wednesdays

Today is one of my favorite days... because it's Woman Crush Wednesday! I'm so excited to talk about my new favorite actress Kim Tae-Ri.

I've recently finished watching Mr. Sunshine and I've been smitten by this incredibly talented woman! She played the ever courageous Go Ae-Shin, and I was floored by this stunning performance. There was something so enigmatic about this particular performance. On one hand, Kim Tae-Ri portrayed a stubborn, strong, intelligent young woman. On the other hand, there were beautiful comedic layers added to this character. I was completely mesmerized! While Mr.Sunshine is the only drama that she's starred in, she has been in 4 movies. I haven't seen any of them, but I am now excited to watch them. This blog is going to be short and sweet because I've only just recently been aware of her. I hope to review many more of her projects!!

The movies that she has been in are Little Forest, 1987: When the Day Comes, Moon Young, and The Handmaiden.

Man Crush Mondays Lee Soo Hyuk

Today we get to talk about the intimidatingly beautiful Lee Soo Hyuk, because he is my Man Crush Monday! Model turned actor, Lee Soo Hyuk is absolutely stunning. While he could rely on those beautiful cheekbones and chiseled chin, he is absolutely dripping with talent.

I don't accurately recall which drama introduced me to him, but my first impression was that he played only dark and brooding 2nd leads. For example, his role as Yoo Jin-Woo in the drama High School Savvy was a bit intense.
This character is rich, seething, and menacing.



                                    Yet

(and I have to admit his six-pack abs helped a bit) there was something about him that pulls the audience in. I wanted to know much more about Jin-Woo's character, his background, his trials, and tribulations etc. Even though writers write the 2nd lead fairly, I  was insatiably curious. Though it's been some years, I believe that curiosity







This lead me to youtube stalk him. (Once I'm interested in an artist, I tend to watch everything attached to their name on the platform)
From there I found a show "Style Log" that he did with fellow actor and friend, Hong Jonghyun. This show gave some insight into Lee Soo Hyuk's personality. Basically, I learned he's too cool for school, and he's a bit reserved. If you have some free time to kill on youtube, definitely watch this show.

The next drama I think I watched was "Scholar Who Walks the Night". I think this drama got mixed reviews, but I adored it. One of the best roles in this drama was the vampire Gwi. I had so much sympathy for him. Even though this vampire was evil, he was written with such humanity. I found myself rooting for this character despite all of the atrocious things he did. I was sad that he had to be defeated, I was hoping that things would kind of turn into a bromance at the end hahaha

Valid Love was the drama in which I started to see Lee Soo Hyuk in a different light. He still played a dark and brooding character, but I loved the level of innocence that showed through. In his previous roles, he was arrogant and cocky, but in this role, he seemed genuinely perplexed by social niceties and graces. I loved how delicately written this drama was, and I would recommend this drama to anyone.

Local Hero was the first drama that I saw in which Lee Soo Hyuk completely shed off the dark and brooding roles I'd previously seen before. His eyes looked bright, he had a "fighting" spirit, it was great to watch for the first 4 episodes. I'm not going to lie, I dropped this drama like a hot potato. The drama was poorly written, and I lost interest fast, but Local Hero was the first drama in which I saw Lee Soo Hyuk in a completely different light.

Luck Romance was amazing. I loved that drama and a lot of that had to do with Lee Soo Hyuk's role as Choi Gun-Wook. This caring, sweet, compassionate tennis player was the polar opposite of every role I'd previously seen him in. He effused light and playful energy in this role and I was incredibly happy to watch him every second that I could.

Sweet Stranger and Me, otherwise known as "Man living in my House" was a throwback to his dark and broody roles, but there was a wonderful comedic edge to it that made it refreshing for me. I really enjoyed this drama as well, and though Kwon Duk-Bong was immediately friendzoned, I loved his loyalty to his friend. This performance was enjoyable to watch, and it further showcased his depth and growth as an actor.

So a big cheer for my Man Crush Monday... Lee Soo Hyuk!

Mr. Sunshine Review

Well, I have just finished binge-watching Mr.Sunshine. I have so many emotions, feelings and this particular post may feel like emotional vomit.

Mr.Sunshine is a historical drama that illustrates the turbulent times of Korea during the early 1900's. Captain Eugene Choi, a former Korean slave, is posted at the American Legation in Korea. Navigating being an American coming from Korea we see Eugene's past is equal parts pain and grace. Under the wing of an American missionary, and the structure of the U.S Military, Eugene grows up to be a compassionate, honorable soldier, who is always doing the right thing. This drama is a layer of many different Korean experiences and perspectives. We see the corruption of the upper echelon of their society.  We see the frustrations of the lower class who are simply trying to survive. We also get insight into the people who exploit the weakness' of a government that doesn't protect its people. This drama is brilliantly written. It evokes a wide range of emotions that are reflective of real life. The insight of each character's motivation is exquisitely displayed. Each character makes profound sacrifices, and as a viewer if left me bereft.

The legendary Lee Byung Hun plays Captain Eugene Choi. To be honest I've never watched any of his Korean dramas before. I knew he was incredibly famous mostly due to variety shows that spoke very highly of him. His performance was utterly sensational. He exuded a military man, who has a deep sense of composure. Byung-Hun portrayed a man who has deep-seated rage and pain but has learned to channel that energy positively. Despite his cold demeanor we get to see a mischievous side to this character. Quick smiles, flashed across his face, and it gave some insight of how Eugene Choi could've been if he'd been born in better circumstances. The story centers around the love that draws Eugene Choi and Lady Ae-Shin. Despite their differences, they end up falling in love with each other, and they make keen sacrifices for one another.



                                            Kim Tae-Ri is a certified powerhouse.

This is the first drama that I've seen her in, but I was mesmerized by her performance. She's one of those actresses who pulsates with verisimilitude. I found myself completely sucked into the world of Lady Ae Shin. While this young woman is an aristocrat, she joins the rebel army to help liberate Korea from its oppression. Despite having access to everything a young woman could possibly want, her blood boils at injustice and she is unable to simply sit back and embroider while everything around her crumbles. Lady Ae Shin has many layers, and it's hard to box her into one kind of character. What made me adore her, was that she wasn't a damsel in distress. The level of courage she displays throughout this drama was amazing to see. More than love, more than family and friends, her absolute priority was Korea. I loved how she was able to deal with all of the crushing blows and still be a loving and compassionate woman.

Byun Yo-han plays the lackadaisical fiance of Lady Ae Shin. To be honest he was my favorite character. The light attitude he had about the world was refreshing. His simple observations made me laugh all the time. Despite his seemingly carefree life, I loved seeing how astute and insightful he was. I really wanted him and Lady Ae Shin to be together but the dramagods didn't grant my wish hahaha I hope to see a character like this as a lead of another drama.

Gu Dong Mae...this character probably deserves a post of his own. Yoo Yeon-Seok shone in this role. Engulfed in unadulterated rage, Gu Dong Mae has no qualms about taking someone's life. Growing up with the stigma of being a butchers child, he's dealt a poor hand. Escaping Korea due to the murder of his parents and with the help of Lady Ae Shin, he comes back to Korea as a Yakuza boss. I LOVED IT. I don't know why I enjoyed the bloodthirsty satisfaction of him cutting down his enemies, but I enjoyed it. The character broke my heart a little bit because the poor guy was so dysfunctional with his love of Lady Ae Shin. He never had a chance, and whatever scrap of negative attention he got from her, he lapped up and cherished.

The ACE of this show for me was Hina. Kim Min Jung was jaw-dropping in this series. Hina was sexy, intelligent, and deadly. The writer hinted at jealousy, and perhaps creating a nasty second lead, but Hina stayed classy. Everything about her was quick and astute. By far one of my favorite female characters ever. I loved how she hustled fools out of their money. I liked how she corrected injustices. The blurred lines of this character were amazing. The juxtaposition of a woman who is graceful, conniving, and strong was incredibly attractive. I would not mind seeing all K-drama leads similar to this character.









Anyways, if you want to know if this drama is worth your time.... It absolutely is!
Happy Drama Watching!

Woman Crush Wednesday

Ladies and Gent's we are back again with one of my FAVORITE actresses of all time, the ever gorgeous *Drum Roll*, please

KANG SO-RA

I was first introduced to her by the drama Misaeng. She played the highly intelligent and quick-witted An Young-Yi. She was the embodiment of a brilliant female employee, who possessed more insight than her counterparts. Kang So-Ra illustrated, brilliantly I might add, the struggle of being a female in a male-dominated work environment. I thought her performance was exceptional in this drama, and she was a major factor in why I enjoyed it so much.

The next project I saw her in was Ugly Alert! Now, this drama "is long as I don't know what". It made me cry buckets and buckets of tears, but Kang So-Ra's portrayal of a chaebol woman trying to prove herself was awesome. She balances the hyper-productive qualities of a CEO with having incredible empathy and warmth, I skipped some episodes (the drama has 133 episodes, I watched 50 episodes straight before I started skipping ahead lol) but I would highly recommend this touching story. Kang So-Ra's counterpart, Lim Ju-Hwan, never disappoints. They had incredible chemistry between both of them.

One of my favorite projects she stars in is Warm and Cozy. I've written multiple times about this cute little drama. Bottom line is... I simply adore it. Kang So-Ra's portrayal of Lee Jung Joo was enjoyable. I loved seeing this character flustered, her feathers ruffled, and just her overall attitude in life. This wasn't the most complex acting I've seen from her, but I really enjoyed the performance.

Though she doesn't have the biggest role in this movie, she does star in My Paparotti. She plays a feisty, spunky student and it was a new way of seeing her. This role showcases her range in acting and once again it was an enjoyable performance. The movie its self is amazing. It will send chills down your spine! At the same time that it's melting your heart, it's also making you laugh a lot. 

The project that clenched her as one of my all time favorites is her participation in "We Got Married"

We got to see a quirky, shy, sensitive girl navigating through a "marriage" I loved seeing her break off into different characters, and watching her grow on the show. It was an amazing thing to feel so connected to her. Kang So-Ra and Super Junior's Lee Teuk had such sweet chemistry and connection. I loved them both so much! 

That's it for today's Woman Crush Wednesday I  hope you check out Kang So-Ra's projects, I'm sure you'll fall for her like I have. 

Man Crush Monday Yoo Yeon-Seok

Ladies and gentlemen, I present you one of my favorite drama leads *drum roll please*

Yoo Yeon-Seok

I first saw this very handsome actor in the drama "Warm and Cozy". I adored his role so much. His Yoo Yeon Seok was such fun to watch. Baek Gun-Woo was mischevious, sly, vulnerable and like a freaking teddy bear!! This role didn't require much depth in terms of acting, but I developed a positive connotation for him.

The second drama I saw Yoo Yeon Seok in, was Reply 1994. To be honest I was very hesitant to watch the Reply series. First I have no connection to 90's Korea, and I felt like I would miss crucial cultural connotations of the time. However, I watched Reply 1988, and I loved that drama, so I gave Reply 1994 a chance! Boy am I glad that I did. This drama was simply magnificent. I adored every single freaking minute of it. Though I shipped "Trash" and Sung Na-Jung together, Yoo Yeon-Seok as a second lead was amazing. I fell for his presentation of Chilbong so HARD. I never quite made it to me shipping him with the Sung Na-Jung, but I shipped the character for myself. What girl wouldn't want a tall, handsome, impossibly kind and patient, pro-baseball player as their soulmate?




The next drama that I watched him was Dr. Kim Romantic Doctor. This was the first drama in which

my eyes were peeled open to Yoo Yeon-Seoks kissing talents. This drama is explosive for the first three episodes. Though it's not my favorite drama (Every project Seo Hyun Jin decides to do rubs me the wrong way) However, Yeon Seok's character was EVERYTHING. I got to see some of his petulant behavior similar to warm and cozy. However, I liked seeing him as a brilliant doctor on the come up, navigating the true definition of success.

The movie "Mood of the Day" was a classic rom-com for me. It was cotton candy puff that I couldn't get enough of. I loved his charisma and swagger in this movie. This movie is incredibly endearing. It's very cliche and it's a little cheesy... but it left me with a huge smile on my face!

One of my favorite movies of all time is Beauty Inside. If you haven't' seen this movie yet, RUN and go watch it! It's amazing!!! Though Yoo Yeon-Seok is in the trailer, he doesn't actually have a ton of screen time, but the story is about a person whose face changes every day. I can't recommend this movie enough! Definitely go out and watch it.

The Boys Over Flowers edition was heart opening to me. I was well aware of his acting skills, but to see a glimpse of his personality on the show melted me. Yoon Yeon-Seok had travel savvy and a ton of confidence to make the trip incredibly enjoyable for his cast mates. It made me fall for him a little more.








I haven't seen it yet but he's is doing another variety show called "Coffee Friends". I am excited to check it out!

Warm and Cozy

This cotton candy drama is my all time favorite pick-me-up! There are some "kdrama troupes" that made me cringe a bit, but overall this drama never fails to make me giddy and gooey on the inside.

Baek Gun Woo is the carefree youngest son of a chaebol family. He goes against convention by pursuing his culinary dreams and opening a restaurant in a small community in Jeju Island. On the outside, it seems idyllic, but Baek Gun Woo doesn't have a good relationship with the area, and his restaurant is consistently lacking customers. I adore this character because he's willful, childish and at the same incredibly compassionate. Yoon Yeon-Seok is amazing in every role he plays. His eyes have a special brand of tenderness, and it seemed as though he had a lot of fun playing this role.




While Baek Gun Woo lives a relatively carefree life, as is custom, our female lead is struggling.

 Lee Jung Joo has worked incredibly hard to save enough money to buy a house. She entrusts her cousin to go to Jeju island and find something suitable. Instead, her cousin buys are crumbling property and runs off with the rest of the money. Stuck in a difficult situation, she pulls herself by the bootstraps and proceeds to make something of herself in this small town. Kang So-Ra is my all time favorite actress. I love the animation and portrayal of agitation she brought to this drama.

Baek Gun Woo is under the impression that Lee Jung Joo is terminally ill and he goes out of his way

to try to make her precious amount of time on earth as comfortable as possible. It was adorable to see them develop feelings for each other. They small hints and signals they gave each other made my heart melt, and any time I am in a drama rut, I watch a few scenes from this drama to perk up my mood.

Overall this drama is cheesy and cute. It's a nice time filler, and nothing to be taken too seriously!