THE HIPPOCRATIC CRUSH [TVB][O]

Written by Funn Lim
SPOILERS ... SPOILERS ... SPOILERS

ORIGINALLY POSTED ON 17.02.2011 AT MAIN BLOG.

NOTICE 
This is an opinion. No review will be posted for this series.

[17.02.2011] ALL MY OPEN LETTERS

Kenneth Ma, Ma Ming, Sir, 

I love you. You know I do. I am watching The Hippocratic Crush and I do love you. But please stop pouting! Please stop biting your lips or look like you're about too! The moment you get angry, you have this pouty puppy dog look and your lips, already rather thin, gets thinner!! How can anyone with thin lips can pout so much is beyond my level of understanding. I love it when you act really really really angry because that's when you don't pout and you look scary BUT when you're moderately angry or you get very emotional, you pout and it just destroys that authoritative sulky faced guy image! I mean I am beginning to think Him Law is more watchable than you because he doesn't pout! Please!!

Regards,

Funn

Him Law, Him Him, Handsome,

I sorta love you too. You have improved a lot in acting wise. However I am afraid viewers still remember that nasty scandal, however cute you are onscreen. But no worries; I understand you have reasons. Work hard, improve more and make your character likeable which I already do feel he is. Keep up the good work and thank you for not stripping. All credibility will be gone if you do!

Regards,

Funn

Tavia, Miss Yeung, Miss "everchanging looks",

Fire the makeup dept. That person is making you look pale and drab, boring and the bloody lipstick isn't red enough! It has no colour! Your hair is still darn short. I am bored with your looks. But acting wise, so far quite good but I feel zero chemistry with our Mr Pouty Lips. At least you are not shouting your lines and that is great news for me. But your nose... sideways is hard to look, frontal is still bearable. You don't look too thin but your face seems way too sharp and thin, almost as sharp as those surgeon's blade! Ouch! Yes, if looks can hurt, yours just sliced me. Why? Why does a pretty ordinary looking but perfectly ok face girl wanna go and do that to herself? Your button nose was beautiful. Now you put too much powder on your face, your face too sharp and the nose.. the nose!! Everytime I concentrate on you, I get blocked by that nose! So I had to not concentrate at you and for an actor, that is bad news! I heard the procedure you did can be reversed and I beg you to please reverse it!! Please!!! Other than that, good performance. 

Regards,

Funn

Dear Ben Wong and Mandy Wong,

The Wongs of this series,  I do think both of you are good. Ben, you look like a real deal neurosurgeon with an attitude problem and Mandy, you are looking believable as a young intern even if you character is really not very likeable. Too sulky. You can sulk contest with Kenneth and You will win because how can I ever be angry with Kenneth eh? Hopefully you will have a good storyline.

Regards,

Funn

Producers of The Hippocratic Crush,

That is one stupid title. I like the Chinese title, 36 hours on call, so why not call that? Anyway, so far I like your series. First 4 episodes is mostly on patients care, and the dilemma facing doctors and the interns and residents and I like it. Healing Hands was so superficial and you did what they couldn't do; make the hospital look real. At least the exterior is real and what a nice looking hospital. However those interns and seniors and what nots sort of relationship, I do not believe they're ever that cordial and close. So I like how Ben Wong and Mr Pouty Lips don't get along which is great! Get out the claws! I also know later on there will be love story and urghhh...so I shall enjoy the medical dilemma for now until the love story destroys the medical dilemma part. At least this is not 4 In Love, which is really going round and round and round and round with the stories, when we know where they will end up.

Regards,

Funn

[21.02.2011] Was watching this series today, getting rather... interesting and melodramatic, anyway suddenly my mom said loudly "How come her nose top is so... meaty? And her nose so high like those gwailos?" and it was Tavia and I explained what she did, and said luckily it is reversible since only injection and right here I must confess I am not sure IF IT IS reversible but I just follow the general opinion of netizens and my sis said "Where got nose job can be reversible?!" and I said "GOT! No longer smash inside, just inject away!" and I wasn't sure if I was right and my mom said "Her nose is distracting" and that ladies and gentlemen, is why it is very important never to mess with something too much! Now even my mom can't get past her nose tip! And when you got past it, it is the idea that Tavia = boredom. I mean she is a competent actress but to sit there to watch her is like = boredom and I realise her nose whilst distracting is actually making her interesting as in to talk about! Because if not, normally would you sit down and talk about Tavia Yeung?! And then there's Mandy and her sulky faced character. I hope she gets to smile beautifully some time soon because however good an actress she is, I am darn bored with her sulking away, more so now that she discovered...*drum roll!!* ...that she and Tavia are full sisters!! Woah! Woah! Like as if I wasn't expecting that! Well, I wasn't. I thought half sister. Oh that scene I hope Tavia develops and attitude and scold Mandy? Never happened. At all. Kenneth is ermmm... handsome but overacting in some, pouting too much in some other.  Him Law is cute. Seriously, he is the cute, beefcake reason in this episode and his acting has improved like to stratosphere. I bet he would be most improved in the next TVB awards until he got itchy hands and well, feel like punching something. Again seriously, I kinda believe his version of story. Like I said, he may be a two timing jerk (if report is to be believed), that doesn't mean he is a woman basher. Anyway speculation time; I think Tavia will get brain tumour, sister Mandy and boyfriend(s) Kenneth and Ben will all try to operate on her to save her, thus


1. saving her relationship with Mandy
2. proving Kenneth loves her a lot and she places her trust on him
3. Ben is a gentleman loser in love


And everyone in this series will gather around to watch the operation whereby Tavia will fall into deep coma and then wake up and everyone looks to the camera and say "That is why doctors are best best best!". Ok, maybe not the slogan part but you get what I mean.


OR this could happen to Mandy but Tavia always gets her man! Always!!

[07.03.2012] Poor Dr Cheong Yat Kin. He just got demoted by Fu Chai. Look at how she addressed him in her letters. MR Cheong Yat Kin!! 5 years of education, another probably 5 years of training, a neurosurgeon and he is MISTER Cheong Yat Kin!! Poor man!


[08.03.2012] A wonderful episode on 07.03.2012 where Yat Kin Tau's brother suffered from low self esteem issue and Yat Kin Tau was at a lost and Yu Chai managed to provide some very nice relief that made his brother very happy and I was thinking after this how can Yat Kin Tau not fall madly for this independent resourceful woman? She used action to prove her love for him whilst Mandy schemed. Granted she wouldn't have the budget nor time to do what Yu Chai did but nevertheless, what Yu Chai did was a very kind gesture.

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JOURNEY TO THE WEST [TV][China][O]

Written by Funn Lim
SPOILERS ... SPOILERS ... SPOILERS

THE FOLLOWING IS POSTED ON 03.02.2012 AT THE MAIN BLOG

IMPORTANT

This is an opinion. Review coming soon.

WHICH VERSION

2011, aka that Zhang Jizhong version

WHO?

The guy who did Duke of Mountdeer (Royal Tramp) with Huang Xiaoming. Also the same guy who did Legend Of The Condor Heroes with again Huang Xiaoming as Yangguo and the ethereally beautiful and should have been Maertai Ruoxi, Crystal Liu Yifei.

SPECIAL FEATURE

At the end of each episode you get to see BTS of that particular episode.

RELEASED IN

2011 I think

MORE INFO

Wikipedia

TRAILER

MY OPINION SUMMARISED

As at 03.02.2012. For more updated comment, scroll below.

Aka the Zhang Jizhong version. You all know how much I love TVB's JTTW with Dicky Cheung, to the point everytime I feel like hating TVB and pop in the DVD or rewatch the reruns and I love TVB again. TVB made JTTW accessible, it made it modern and yet traditional, entertaining and yet educational, suitable for all races and yet clearly about Buddhism, the makeup is just right, the costume is just fine and yes the scenery and the effects could do with a bit of tweaking but the storytelling, reworked, modernise, rearranged and reimagined, made it to me THE BEST JTTW EVER. Dicky also gave us a very temperamental and yet handsome monkey and who can forget his "YO!" cry. BUT the best monkey is of course still Liu Xiao Ling Tong in the original JTTW from China. However these past 2 or 3 years we see a reemergence of the popularity of JTTW in various form, the latest being the Zhang Jizhong version which is said to be the most faithful to the book(s). I am watching it, and I sorta loving it because of one singular factor; the actor who plays Monkey King is superb not in his acrobatics skills (non existent - he seems to hesitate with that errr... stick I shall call it) or even his facial expressions (for very obvious reasons) but for his body language and his eyes. Never before has an actor been so limited in expressions due to the circumstances and yet so expressive. I love his very very cheeky and very very angry and scary Monkey King. I love how disrespectful he was, and how he learned to be compassionate. Basically I love him. I am however not loving Wu Jing played by Elvis Tsui (Sorry but I keep thinking him as king of Cat III movies - competent actor though) who basically has nothing to do and has yet to display the utmost loyalty I expect of him. For me, yes Evergreen Mak was annoying for all the tears but I feel he showed the qualities of Wu Jing. I am also not loving Bajie played by Zang Jinsheng simply because I hate his character BUT the actor was good actually, again limited by the obvious elements and still manage to express through eyes and body language. I am not loving Nie Yhe monk. He is good looking but so far I find him a tad annoying. Lacking the wisdom I expected but then he is very close to the book I suppose but sorry man, Kong Wah rocks! Kong Wah makes you believe a mortal of 20 odd years old can be the sifu of 3 beings whose combined age is more than 1000 years old. The demons, etc I don't quite like due to excessive make up and lack of imagination. I find their colours dreary. The heaven sequence is beautiful BUT way too much effect, too much smoke sorta thing. That makes the gods seems... seems godlike which is of course the intention but what I like about TVB JTTW is the gods and deities are almost human in nature; with faults, with things to like and dislike. Of course Feng Shaofeng as Erlang Shen is handsome and all BUT I find his Erlang Sheng for the episodes I saw very... nothing much to say. For that, yes Joe Ma wins. I love how Dicky called him 3 Eyed Kid, a clear insult. I am also eager to watch the actor who played Buddha, who is Wang Huichun who was 8th prince in Yong Zheng Wang Chao and am pleased to hear same voice so that means his voice is THAT powerful and deep. No feeling for Guanyin. Still feel TVB's is the best, as Mimi Kung always has that tiny friendly smile, making her Guanyin such a delight to watch and believably compassionate. The ladies are pretty but are indistinguishable from one another. I find their make up the worst.

The makeup is too much but works for the monkey, and the pig but the rest.. too restrictive. I almost pity the actors, stuck in latex and can't act with face. Way too much rubber in this series. I know realism is good but in a fantasy flick, it should allow for flexibility for the actors and some imagination left for the viewers. For that, I love TVB's JTTW. I mean I don't doubt the quality of this series' makeup for a TV series but I just wish for less literal interpretation and more... imaginative interpretation.

The kung fu is non existent at this moment. I find it not innovative, I find even the flying sequence spoiled by the lack of imagination, flair and too much OBVIOUS green screen. For that, I applaud Stephen Chow for the clever use of CGI and real scene. I know it is fantasy but it should look credible enough even for a fantasy. I hope as the journey progresses I will get to see some major good fighting sequences and less CGI or those effects. I mean one scene it was so badly done as monkey stood there and supposedly received something magically and yet so obvious it was 2 sequences edited together when it shouldn't look so obvious.

The storytelling may be faithful but it feels... disjointed. Some stories unfinished. I don't feel touched by the love story. I felt little for the demons. I feel for Monkey King and his sifu but the rest, none at all. That's why I love TVB's JTTW. The stories may be longwinded for some but updated and retold in such a way it works. It feels connected, it feels like it is bridged between the fantasy and the message the series is supposed to tell. It feels inspiring, touching and most of all, you feel involved. The problem with most Mainland China series of such nature is you don't feel that way. This version of JTTW wastes too much time on unnecessary scenes that wouldn't make sense for someone who has never seen JTTW of any version before; like why all of a sudden Monkey went crying and insisted Bajie patrol the hills? We know it is because he wants to play a trick on Bajie. But the series was too sudden. And I feel by weaving together Bajie's supposed side story of lovesick nature with his eventual mission to India in TVB's version, it just makes for funny and at times touching watch. Like his 1000 love punishment. I laughed so hard. I don't see that sort of personalisation in this JTTW. In fact this JTTW is dominated by monkey king whilst at least in TVB's version there is am effort to balance and give fair treatment to all characters. The villains also just didn't garner much pity unlike that 3 strike the white bone demon in TVB's JTTW, my favourite of the story. You pity the demon and yet understood Wukong's predicament and yet blame the monk and yet understood his frustration. This story is also by far the best in this JTTW but somehow lacking in that personal touch for the stories of the demon and our heroes.

The worst is so many places credited as the backdrop that I realised they'r really backdrop. Most scenes the actors film in front of the green/blue screen and rarely on site except for some small scene and even then all those sites rarely fully utilised. For this Qiong Yau should be applauded. Did you see that disaster called New HZGG? Disaster yes, but scenery worthy of all the HD in the world and so colourful. JTTW should have been that. But yet the actors stuck in front of green screens, even in scenes they were supposed to be travelling, obviously green screen. I mean what a waste!! I know the logistics is difficult, as shown at the end of each episode with the BTS sequences BUT come on! Less green screen, more real scenery!!

But the best of the best, the themesong. I don't have anything bad to say about the themesong; serene, beautiful, peaceful. I hope I can find its soundtrack some day.

But don't let my criticisms deter you from watching this. It is still highly entertaining and you have got to watch Wu Yue as Sun Wukong. He is a mixed between Dicky and the original Liu Xiao Ling Tong, but neither the dexterity of the old master nor the nimbleness of Dicky. But he excels in the little things; the way he moved his fingers, the way he looked at people, his eyes. Like I said, he was so limited by that stupid rubber latex that it is almost frustrating to imagine how he would have look facially but he made it all up with body language. For that I am loving this JTTW even if everything else is just... 50-50.

07.03.2012

I am following this series very closely now, which is at I think Episode 40 and I can safely say I am a huge fan of this adaptation. My love for JTTW TVB version is unblemished, because these 2 are so different in execution and concept. Still too much rubber, still too much CGI but the action scenes are getting better, the performances are great. Story wise still a big disjointed, as in there's no huge emotional thing between demons and demons which is what set TVB version apart, but this version is wonderful in the sense it is sometimes quite short and concise. Although some stories are just too long and a few are repetition. I am loving this Wukong, which the more I see, the more Dicky Cheung I see in him. Clearly he took inspiration in various performances he must have seen. But the themesong is the one that gets me each time, I have goosebumps listening to it. I will post it when I upload it and find the youtube clip. Whilst the characters are expectedly flawed, and Wujing still has nothing to do, I feel this may be more on point with regards to the books than any other version. So for best Wukong, see the original. For faithful adaptation, see this one. But TVB version remains the most faithful in terms  of the spirit of JTTW, spiritually. What TVB version did which others failed is to adapt it in such a way that it is easily understood, connected between the dots and presented in a package that is great entertainment. But I am loving this version also. Beautiful! 

12.03.2012

I swear I thought the actress was Charmaine Sheh when I saw the queen in that episode where the queen was kidnapped by the demon for 3 years!! Looks so much alike!!

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SHREK THE MUSICAL [R][LIVE][2012]

Written by Funn Lim

ORIGINALLY POSTED ON 21.06.2012 AT MAIN BLOG

I went to watch Shrek The Musical last night (21.06.2012) at the KLCC Convention Centre (oh! the jam! oh! the crazy jam!), RM590-00 seat which is free thanks to the grace of another who must thank another for 2 free tickets. Frankly the price is too expensive but it was almost full house, mostly and probably because of free tickets to some big time company or rather company bought tickets to distribute to clients. Anyway the seat was right smack in the middle, in front of me was a kid so basically my view was unobstructed. That sort of view that I would have wished I got for my Fukuyama Masaharu concert. Anyway I hated Shrek movies but I love the musical.

The story is the same, sort of but some jokes were toned down and somehow less offensive in the musical. Some were very funny. The singing was mostly Broadway except for the voice behind the female dragon who turned out to be a black woman with a power house voice. All the actors can dance. The amazingness of the show is part of the fact that the cast has such chemistry and also each were enthusiastic in their respective role, despite not so encouraging feedback from the viewers, at first. I especially liked the main actress as the adult Princess Fiona who was funny, cute and very very enthusiastic, unlike the cartoon counterpart. The Donkey was still annoying but that is the character, not the very eager actor. It was the ogre, Shrek who seems subdued but he could act as well as sing. The guy as Pinnochio was funny even if annoying. However for a human actor, it has to be the actor as Lord Farquaad who stole the show. First of, we all know the villain is a midget. They didn't find a midget as the actor but rather the actor walked on his knees hidden behind a black clothe with 2 tiny puppet legs attached in front and frankly he had the most costume changes with the most dazzling costumes. His performance was campy and OTT and I believe if he wasn't so funny, many may be offended since there are gay/effiminate/midget jokes. But the actor was brilliant! I laughed so hard at his antics and he knew he was getting the most applause and laughs and at one point encouraged us to clap and all. He was the most popular, no doubt about it. BUT the highlight was the performance by non-human, a puppet to be exact and that is the dragon which is huge! A few guys in black moves it's legs, eyes, mouth, body and I didn't even know the dragon was there until it began to sing and it even flew!! The skills for maneuvering the dragon puppet was simply mind blowing and that was the best of the best. I wished the dragon made an appearance at the end, because no doubt it would have the biggest cheer. Moreover that dragon lady can really really sing.

Another highlight has to be some clever twists in the story, like how it punked Lion King and even Babe. That was funny. Or how they showed rats dancing, and that is actors hidden behind the screen wearing shows looking like rats. The imagination was mind blowing to tell you the truth. And then the costumes, whilst most rarely changed costumes, the make up and costumes were beautiful. The professionalism of the actors and how they seamlessly changed actors (from human Fiona to ogre Fiona, from no dragon to a dragon) were also expertly done. But it was the set that made me realise this is a quality production. It was colourful, imaginative and very artistic. I love the scene where Fiona hid in a house and was talking to Donkey when Shrek came by and was hurt by what she said eventhough she meant herself. The house was actually a see through screen, the background was a big moon with night sky, the lightning was dark and yet you can see clearly with the spotlight casting a shadow of Donkey and Fiona as an ogre for all to see. It was very very beautiful.

It was certainly a quality production and I can see why it got rave reviews, technical wise or even the acting.

The story itself is Shrek the animation, but more.. family friendly. The beginning was slow, but it picked up when Lord Farquaad appeared and the story just zooms ahead, not a moment wasted but the ending was slow a little even if the effect of how Fiona became ogre in front of everyone was imaginative. Definitely did not see the switch between actors  or something like that. The music is also a highlight. Great catchy songs, and live band who played so well. I really liked a few songs in it and whilst the actors were not fantastic singers, their eagerness made up for the lack of professional singing.

I know RM590 is expensive, it is the most expensive seat and all that. Frankly I won't pay to watch, maybe a cheaper ticket. Even if sitting further way, the place is not huge so you can still see, although less enjoyable because missing the details. If you have a chance, go and have a look. I have seen about I suppose 2 or 3 musicals only but I know a quality production when I see one. And Shrek, the musical is one heck of a production. To me everything was just perfection and I had such good fun that night. And since I am no fan of the Shrek movies, and yet I enjoyed this musical immensely, it goes to show how amazing the production was. Children will enjoy it for the colours, adults for the humour and generally everyone can appreciate good acting and enthusiastic professional performance. For once, and yes even if the ticket was free, I didn't feel shortchanged.

> Check out the show details here

> from 19 June 2012 to 24 June 2012

> Show starts at 8pm (not sharp 8pm since Malaysians are never on time, maybe 10 minutes later) with 20 minutes intermission and ends at around 11pm.

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1 NIGHT 2 DAYS [1N2D][O][TV][Kr] : The end of Season 1

Written by Funn Lim

ORIGINALLY POSTED ON 19.03.2012 AT MAIN BLOG

I read with shock that with the change of cast, it is considered the end of Season 1 for 1 Night 2 Days, an extremely funny addictive reality show starring some big names, one of whom is Lee Seunggi. I consider it a reality show but in reality it is like a game/adventure/survivor show shot over a period of 2 days 1 night. 5 years on and it is considered season 1. I am truly sad to say good bye to Seunggi, whom I fell in love with, his charm, his intelligence, his ability to cook the perfect rice with a timer and an internet connection for recipes!! He is very very smart, and to his fellow brothers, very handsome too. Did I mention smart? When I see him I can imagine him being always the 1st in class. I can't fault him for anything, he can be pretty devious but all in good fun. Then there's Ji Won, the truly devious one, the one who can think of ways to settle the most intricate clues. He may not be the most well tempered, but he is the one with the greatest love for food and when you give him a mission, he can interprete it in such ways to bend you to his will. These 2 are leaving; Seunggi because admittedly he became too big for this show, even the director feels they're holding him back and the other that is Ji Won  to concentrate on his music and starting a family. The fan favourite PD, that is Na PD, whose tricks and rules would often get backfired by the more devious cast members and that made Na PD even more endearing is also leaving, to produce/direct other shows. Season 2 has kicked in, reportedly with great success since 3 members are still in the show. The original big brother, Kang Hodong remains ridiculously in retirement for some stupid reasons. Fans should petition him to return. When he left, there was a big void, and suddenly the quietest member that is Uhm Taewoong talked more, everyone had to interact more instead of relying on the usually reliable Kang Hodong. I actually enjoyed the episodes after Hodong left as well, my love for each member grew. For me, Segeun is the most active one; he did so much, he had to run more, climb more, etc and to me I admire his tenacity and strength. Jongmin is the silly innocent one and in the 2nd last episode when he had to say a goodbye speech to the current cast (not that he is leaving but just an end of an era), he choked back tears and confessed the last 2 years were hard and that he wished he could have done better. Fans cried out "Jongmin, you did well!!" and I agree. I always enjoy watching his silly funny antics and he gave me an impression he is 100% good guy. Then there's Taewoong, the one who is the quietest, can't do games, can't do sport but someone you know who loves nature. He can walk and walk and he is rather good at the labour sort of job.

I love them all. And to see my 2 favourite leaving, it is hard but life goes on. Seunggi will go to greater lengths for his career, in music which he is breaking into the tough Japanese market and more TV or perhaps in future movies. Truthfully 1N2D gave him his stardom but in the end was actually holding him back. Jiwon I suppose wanted a more set schedule and less hectic one.

Of all the episodes which I started only quite recent, my favourite funniest one was when Seunggi dressed up as a woman and had to take a cold icy bath. It was nearing porn and was so very funny. The most educational involved the history professor, which I find absolutely fascinating, since the professor was very very keen in explaining the history and his students, that is the 5 guys were keen on learning and actually gave thoughtful answers. Again here you see how intuitive Jiwon was, how practical Taewoong was and how intelligent Seunggi was. He can even name all the emperors it seems!

Season 2 comes with I believe 4 new members, one of whom I already knew that is Sung Shikyung if my spelling is correct. He participated in the 1 to 100 year old fan tour and he had to handle the 2nd toughest group, the older group and he amazed me with his sensitivity and his gracefulness in handling the oldest generation. I believe women who was lining up to marry him before his appearance will after that willing to sacrifice whatever to marry him. He does make an ideal husband, like how Seunggi will make an ideal boyfriend! But the one I am most keen to watch is Kim Seung Woo, forever to me he is Manager Han Tae Jun from Hotelier, recently looking way too handsome that it is so wrong in the rather bland Iris. He was in fact the reason to watch Iris and no other. I wonder how he will fare. I mean this show is rather clear that it is tough, you end up starving most of the time and very tired. But it is good fun in the end, even if there are so many reasons to lose their temper, none of them did. I suppose 5 or 6 guys together are all brothers, and young at heart!

I shall miss  Seunggi and Jiwon. And I look forward to the new members. But I am sure the members staying behind will miss the rapport they had built over 5 years. I remember one episode Sugeun made a bargain with Na PD for some prizes and he said have someone pour something hot on Jongmin and not only Jongmin will not be angry, he will say "It's ok" twice. They did that and indeed Jongmin did exactly that! But there was a long pause between "It's ok". In fact Jongmin didn't look angry at all. He was even more apologetic than the person pouring the hot cup of something on him! So Sugeun said test no. 2;  have a crew member eat chocolate in front of them and Jiwon will beg for a piece of it since Jiwon loves to eat. And indeed, Jiwon saw the chocolate and made motions like share with me! and in the end Sugeun won! This simple exercise shows how much Sugeun knows these 2. They even know each other's reaction and all these weren't built on one day; it was 5 years worth of comraderie and friendship, which had to be restarted with the next new members.

Which brings me to this question; why would anyone want to join this really physically tough show? Like Shikyung who knew what he was getting into? I suppose first and foremost, fame. It is the most watched show on TV, consistently high ratings and everyone who saw them on street knew they were filming 1N2D and will offer help in some ways. Then there's the brotherhood that is undeniable. But mostly it is punishing but it is fun. If the girls can do it, like Choi Jiwoo who actually joined for 1 time and did reasonably well and changed her perceptions from cold aloof to rather cute and funny, why not?

I personally can't do it. But I can certainly sit down every Friday and have a great laugh. Everytime I had a bad day, I need only watch this show and everything is just too funny. I confess I have not watched any drama of Seunggi or Taewoong or heard Jongmin or Jiwon's songs or even Seunggi's or watch Sugeun and Hodong's talk shows. I knew them all from this show. I will miss them all in one screen, Na PD included.

If you've never watched this show, I think you can start with Season 2 but I think the recent episodes of Season 1 are great as well. This show is great because it shows the huge stars as normal people. I mean this is a very exposed sort of show. You leave nothing behind. It is reality show except more real. The reaction is honest, the results sometimes unexpected. It is such an exposing show, emotionally, physically and also mentally exhaustive that I am surprised anyone would want to be in it. You won't find such a show in HK because no one would be that open and honest. Korea did it with style. It is also because it has a simple format, clean cut games and all in all clean cut good fun! Any age can watch, any age can enjoy.

>> Read all recaps of some episodes in Season 1 and now Season 2 here at Dramabeans

27.03.2012

I am having so much fun watching the old episodes of this group, the introduction of Seunggi, Taewoong, etc. Seunggi was quite obvious why he joined; he wanted to promote his music. He took every opportunity to promote himself and music but I suppose after a few years it is because he enjoys hanging out with his hyungs. Taewoong has even less reason to join and his first appearance, he was ambushed and was caught in only his boxers!! Rather sexy intro. I have never seen Taewoong's intro. When I first started watching, he was already in it, quiet but dependable and I really liked him. After watching his intro and what he went through on first day of filming, it confirms all the reasons why I like him so. Not an ounce of temper or arrogance, I think he joined because he wanted to experience some serious bromance since he lacks that in his own family. He certainly adapted very well. The earlier episodes were so funny! And I do get why many considered Jongmin changed after he came back from the army. He was always the dumb one but he was witty dumb. For a while he looked lost but since the last episode, he seems to have regained some of his quick wit. I really miss Seunggi and Jiwon though. Amazing past episodes and the things they went through. I seriously don't think any famous actors would want to subject themselves to that unless they were looking for something. I really miss this group. I also miss Hodong and what a shame he didn't join the last episode. Is he really that into his retirement?

27.06.2012

Looking for Season 1? You can't buy it, even if you can, no subtitles. But there is an almost full torrent with really good English subtitles which you can find here at asiator.net which doesn't require you to have certain level of whatever to download. Just remember everytime you resume download, click Reseed Request (make sure you register first before you do that) and abot 10-15 100% seeders will come to your rescue. Took me a long time to download but I finished; all avi files (some were mp4) and HD for most. This torrent is missing ep 1-26 (prior to Lee Seunggi time so this torrent starts at Seunggi's 1st episode), ep 34 and ep 49, all of which were never subbed in English. You can still find these missing episodes subbed in Chinese or Vietnamese broken down into several parts but English sub, none whatsoever. Stranger than x-files why ep 34 and 49 are not subbed at all. You can find almost all in youtube with 1 or 2 parts missing but won't kill you to miss those. However if you want an almost complete collection, this is the torrent to get. Now I wish someone just upload ep 34 and 49 with English sub because I know you have it! Oh come on! Complete the collection please!!

As for Season 2, you can find it in youtube and everywhere else. I am increasingly missing season 2. Somehow I don't like the format anymore. It is too much games, too little sightseeing and whilst I like the new members, I feel since they're all almost equal in age, somehow the fun is lost. When Hodong was there, he was clearly the big brother and part of the enjoyment is seeing how he walks all over them and they being scared of him. At the same time you see a great respect to him as his affection to them and also poor Seunggi being bullied and then pampered. In fact Seunggi has such old taste that he blends well with them. That sort of comraderie is missing in Season 2. I feel perhaps this show should have ended in Season 1.

Oh I even miss Jiwon. Really miss them all. Glad to read also Seunggi's popularity is going even more sky high as he was chosen to run the Olympic torch (representing Samsung his sponsor or rather he is their spokesperson but still.. a huge deal!).

(L to R) MC Mong, Sanggeun, Sugeun, Jiwon, Hodong, Seunggi and Kim C

The best 1N2D combination. The cartoon really captures their "characters" in the show.

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NO GOOD EITHER WAY [TVB]

Written by Funn Lim
For me this series is enjoyable because it chooses to be quirky.
SPOILERS ... SPOILERS ... SPOILERS

NOTICE
This is one part of a long opinion that I have written on this series as it was broadcast. Read all the contents after Read More link (you will see the full post if you clicked the direct link in Reviews Database). Reposted from Point2e.com main blog. Comments reposted from the same blog as well.


PRODUCTION NOTES
Released in
2012

No. of Episodes
21

Cast-Character
Here

A BRIEF REVIEW
It is actually 21 episodes instead of 20 episodes and I like the ending. It is hopeful in its own way. I was so busy thinking who will end up with who but this series is beyond that. It isn't about who ends up with who but rather what actually happens to them. Goaltech company is saved as all 500 employees agree to delay their salary by 20 days so that Alex can fix the corrupted ES system. This is because they like Mr Ko who has my vote as the most understanding boss and husband ever. I really like his happy ending with his Thai wife. Interpal doesn't end up with Man's sister. I actually thought he would but he ends up as her business partner, finally finding a career he can show to his mom proudly. Man doesn't end up with the doctor but they became friends but he did get to be his Sales Manager, so good for him! Alex and Ling remain happily married. Violet, Kan, Aaron and Ko's business partner were arrested and charged and I assume Aaron got 1 year imprisonment because 1 year later he is delivering pizza, having learned his lesson. My biggest disappointment is Kin doesn't end up with Ho Jing Jik because I really want them to end up together. Instead she decided to take it slow and the ending seems to suggest things are not over between her and Aaron. What?! No! No! Let them be over. I really like Ho Jing Jik.

Seriously the last episode was really funny, that scene where everybody ends up at Violet's apartment. That is some witty writing there. And whilst I still think this will work better as a half hour sitcom, but as a series I enjoy the chemistry the cast has with one another.

I never liked Kristal Tin but in here I really appreciate her performance as the simple minded Ling. I think her subtle performance was so elegant, her face very expressive and she has this amazing chemistry with Ruco Chan, their hugs, kisses, all very very believable.

I am even quite impressed with Natalie Tong whose start of career reminds me of Raymond Lam of the past, that OTT dramatic reaction to absolutely everything. She doesn't need to be funny in here so thankfully, nothing forced. She did most scene well, toning down her OTT reaction although frankly her role in light of others are lesser so focus is lesser and so I was able to enjoy her performance.

Louis Yuen proves himself funny in one particular scene where he had to agree, deny and avoid all in succession as he was confronted by Kristal's Ling. That scene reminded me so much of Power Chan and his comic timing in.. what was that series with Charmaine and Dayo again? That classic scene. I am also glad this series doesn't force some romance on him.

Stephen Au was fantastic as the kind caring boss and there is a sincerity in his performance as Mr Ko. When Alex was being difficult, and Alex has his reasons, I felt Alex was being such a petulant child as against a much pressured Mr Ko. Stephen Au really showed his gentleness in this performance which to me is one of his best.

Never liked Matt Yeung but I ended up liking him. It just shows the right role will do wonders to change the perception of viewers.

Florence Kwok's Violet may be a silly character but I can't fault Florence's great performance as the ultimate office bitch.

I finally found out Interpal is Gill Mohindepaul Singh and this man deserves all the praises. Not that I want to see him shirtless (oh so hairy!!) and his character is silly; most of the time the trio find themselves in impossible stupid situation because of Interpal but Gill Mohindepaul Singh played his character with sincerity and the idea that an Indian can speak such good cantonese never gets old. This is one of the best aspect of this series and quite an eye opener, so many Indian actors who can speak perfect cantonese. In fact I suspect they're better at Cantonese than Hindi because their Hindi sounds like gibberish. Maybe they speak Tamil? Urdu?

Even Leanne Li with her limited role manage to impress upon me with her winning smile and cheerful disposition.

Ruco Chan impresses me as well. He can be funny but he can also play angry. However I feel at some scenes he was holding himself back when he didn't quite shout, and yet not quite whispering. However in retrospect it is because Alex is an educated man, who doesn't stoop so low as to shout as his wife even if he says hurtful things. So again I appreciate his subtlety. He doesn't look cunning evil thanks to his curly hair and glasses and I must mention again I love his chemistry with his co-stars, such as Louis Yuen and of course Kristal Tin.

Cheng Chi Seng (does he have English name?) also impresses as the devious minority shareholder of Goaltech. This guy can act. With the same look, he can play a devious guy or a really nice guy. That is what I called versatility.

The one I am disappointed with is Jason Chan. But he is given an impossible role; a character that just disgusts you till no end with the words he used against Kin. In that respect he played his role well but you can see he is very very very raw. I am doubtful if he can lead a series. He should stay the secondary actor for some time to observe and learn rather than being pushed into the limelight. If I feel Natalie Tong is too dramatic in her delivery of her lines, Jason reminds me of Selena Li who is fluffy. I don't like how his words are never strong enough. What I mean is look at Ruco; every word he delivers has conviction. He believes in his dialogue, his lines and you can hear his pronunciation, crisp and clear. Jason seems unsure. Given time he will be a better actor but right now I just find him wholly inadequate.

A sidenote. Leanne's doctor boyfriend is William Chak? Didn't know! No comment on his performance since he had so few scenes but since I didn't find anything glaringly obvious, I will say a job well done then.

Overall this is an amazingly witty series. Yes some situations are impossible, some even downright stupid. But concentrate on the characters and performances, ignore the situations. This is a character driven series and for me the writing is tight and the performances for the most part are above the usual standard fare. And I like the ending. It is not typical in its own weird way. For me this series is enjoyable because it chooses to be quirky. It is a funny interesting quirky series and if you can ignore some major plot holes, I believe this is the series for you. Fans of Ruco, Kristal and Natalie will want to watch this to see their favourite stars shine.

VERDICT
Highly recommended.

ORIGINALLY POSTED ON 14.06.2012

UPDATES - 06.07.2012

Finally that wrapped in towel running on street scene! And the BTS was way sexier than the real thing! Not just 2 actors had to run on the street wrapped in towel, so did 4 or 5 others! It was not very funny because BTS was funnier. I think this series should be ending soon and whilst the story is getting to be very ridiculous (how can Interpal sell Alex's  creation? That was just stupid!) but the dialogue is rather realistic even if I do think Alex is a bit too "siu hei". He can't expect the entire company to bend to HIS will!! Anyway are you watching this? No? WHY NOT? Watch it! It is rather funny!!

30.06.2012

Where did they find all these Indian actors who can speak such fluent Cantonese? Even more fluent than me and than some of the actors in this series, from Hong Kong? And most of them can act, such as Interpal's cousin! Amazing! I still believe this series would work best as a half hour sitcom since it is slowing down. Frankly the official synopsis got it all wrong! A very enjoyable witty series with some very fine dialogue. If you're not watching this... well... you should be!

14.06.2012

I am currently watching the new TVB series, No Good Either Way over at ASTRO AOD. Still in early stages as in episode 4 but I am smitten and am hoping it stays this good. For all the talks of changing their style and giving pretentious over dramatic storylines and direction and long useless monologues, to me this series is fresh and different in TVB sense. Look at it faraway and it is typical TVB but look closer, and this series actually has a storyline, characters have characterisation and personality, the dialogue is crisp and most importantly, it is witty. I thought I can predict the next step but this series in each episode surprises me with its clever witty twist and useful flashback. It doesn't drag. So I question some casting decision but so far everyone is ok, but to me my favourite as yet is the actor who plays Interpal Singh who has some of the best lines.

 

Ruco Chan is surprisingly good in lighthearted moments even if he still reminds me of an accountant serial killer, luckily this time less so because of his goofy curly hair and Stephen Au is darn funny whilst being darn serious. He in fact has the funniest moment in I believe Episode 4 with regards to his comatose wife, and certainly the big twist of the night.

 

Of all the female cast, I am glad Florence Kwok is given prominence again. This woman can act and here she is the ultimate bitch in the office who cares only for herself. I love how she almost stumbled and everyone was watching her and cheering for her to fall flat on her face! My problem is with Natalie Tong who isn't funny and is overdramatic in everything but thus far she is serviceable. And I don't like Crystal Tin but so far she is ok and she does have chemistry with Ruco. I do like how realistically they hug each other as engaged couples do. Jason Chan is I am sorry to say the least impressive with his very mediocre acting and I hate the way he spoke his lines; no force, no nothing. I am surprised he is picked to lead his next series but I suppose TVB needs new blood and they're banking on his looks and image. Based on performance alone, he is thus far just fluff. Some minor characters are given a lot of screentime to flesh their characters, ranging from eccentric (I love Louis Yuen's campy effeminate room mate!) to downright disgusting (Natalie Tong's boss! Yuck!).  I do not know the direction of this series as yet but then it is good because it is not quite predictable with some amusing surprises. To me THIS is the real deal thus far; all the talks about changing TVB and such, this series to me is the first sign of a good and interesting change. I won't be surprise if you tell me this is inspired (*cough*stolen idea*cough*) from a k-drama or J-drama or C-drama or whatever but what I love is it doesn't have  a so called shocking element as storyline as gimmick. The gimmick here is the dry wit. I pray that it stays that good. TVB! SURPRISE ME!!!

Malaysian viewers if you have AOD, watch daily over at CH901 from Mon-Fri with new episode every 8.30pm.

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