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.
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.
Secret Relationships will now be one of the few series I’ll be following week-to-week. And actually, the very first Korean BL series I’ll be watching live as it airs! Based on the first episode, I think I’ll be happy to have it be my first!
TV5’s “Be the Next: 9 Dreamers” gets off to a shaky start, but shows improvements.
Deliverers in every sense of the word. The Boonboomgers were deliverers in the heroic sense, saving and rescuing those in danger and helping people in need. The Boonboomgers also made literal deliveries, whether special moments for schoolkids or curry lessons to a friend or even sketchy government secret missions.
But the Boonboomgers’ biggest and best delivery was probably being able to deliver to us, the fans and viewers, an excellent season this past year.
Overall, this was a wonderful movie and a perfect representative of what Boonboomger is all about.
A mix of romance, family, comedy, drama and slice of life goodness along with the right amount of nostalgia, a welcome sincerity, depth, warmth and irresistible charm: Love Next Door is one of the best feel-good and resonant series you will be able to find and enjoy.
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.
GMA Network’s Pulang Araw may not be the definitive screen depiction of wartime Philippines we all deserve. But that does not take away from the many positive achievements of the ambitious series. Even if its execution leaves a bit to be desired.
Michihito Fujii’s film The Parades (パレード) is a beautifully poignant and warm exploration of love, loss and human connection. Released on Netflix earlier this year, The Parades features a wonderful cast and emotionally affecting stories. Though the confines of a feature film running a little over two hours holds the narrative back from delving deeper, The Parades nonetheless offers a thought-provoking and resonant experience.