Category: International TV

DryedMangoez recaps, reviews and commentary about international (non-American) television programs.

Hindsight Review: Charming Cast, Careful Balance and Feel-good Vibes Power the Satisfying “ThamePo”

I wrote my “First Impression” Review after already watching nine episodes of GMMTV’s ThamePo: Heart That Skips a Beat. But the four episodes since essentially reinforced my not-so first impressions from then. A talented young cast, engaging romance, and an unexpectedly deep portrayal of the entertainment industry and fan culture have made ThamePo‘s 13 episodes thoroughly satisfying.

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First Impression Review: GMA Network/Viu’s “Slay” Offers Familiarity in a Refreshing Package So Far

Does GMA Network’s Viu original series Slay actually, well, slay? A little bit, perhaps. Based on the first two episodes, the series has no problem setting the stage for what this series is all about. There is a familiarity with many, if not all, of the plot points that are introduced in these opening episodes. But there’s also an interesting bit of freshness and a different vibe here that is not typically seen, if ever, in local television. Whether on a streaming series or on linear TV. And as a First Impression, the episodes certainly offer enough to keep you intrigued.

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First Impression Review: A Strong and Engaging Start for “Secret Relationships”
Good Ol’ Review: Sincerity Powers the Emotional “Peach of Time”

Finally got a chance to check out the WeTV original series Peach of Time (시간의 복숭아). And it is interesting watching what is one of the early Korean BL series after having already watched a couple that have been released since. I think that might have affected how I take the series overall. But in trying to be as fair to the series as I can, Peach of Time has a charming cast that effectively helps to bring to life a legitimately emotional story.

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Good Ol’ Review: Kim Ji Woong and Yoon Seobin Not Enough to Carry “Kissable Lips”

Kissable Lips (깨물고 싶은) is yet another Korean web series held back by the limitations of its format and platform. A solid premise and excellent chemistry by its lead stars Kim Ji Woong and Yoon Seobin do their best to try and make up for the shortcomings of the rest of the series. But it ultimately ends as a quick, but unsatisfying watch.

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Not Really-First Impression Review: “ThamePo Heart That Skips a Beat”
Good Ol’ Review: Excellent Cast, Irresistible Charm, Resonant Depth; “Love Next Door” Has it All and Then Some
Good Ol’ Review: Won Tae Min and Do Woo Power the Stunningly Profound “The Time of Fever”

I had one last opportunity to watch a Korean BL drama last month and I am so glad I chose The Time of Fever to be that one. Stunning in almost every way, this feature film/series features one of the most breathtaking depictions of the tumultuous years of adolescence. Won Tae Min and Do Woo are absolutely captivating in the lead roles as they propel an emotionally affecting screenplay and beautiful direction into what is ultimately a resonant experience.

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Hindsight Review: Technical Achievement, Great Cast Help Carry GMA Network’s Ambitious, Flawed “Pulang Araw”
My Top 10 Favorite Korean BL Dramas of 2024!
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