Korean Drama: TV Series: Shine or Go Crazy (2015)

"Shine or Go Crazy" (alternate title:  "Shine or Be Mad") was released in 2015 and it is a "gem".  If you have not already watched, then add this Korean drama series to your watch list. It has 24 episodes and is available on Viki.com. 

Image credit: https://asianwiki.com/File:Shine_or_Go_Crazy-p1.jpg

Talk about palace intrigue. It's loaded with murder by poison, spies who spy on the spies, and warriors on different sides. The good guy warriors or the "Righteous" wear BLACK. The bad guy warriors wear RED. It is set during the period BEFORE the Joseon era when the country was called Goryeo. The main character is Wang So (played by Jang Hyuk) and he is the cursed Prince of Goryeo who is destined to become the emperor. But!  Will he be a good emperor or a bad emperor?

The reason the series is called “Shine or Go Crazy” is because when his future or fate was read, it was determined that he was born with both a light and fire. That means he will either shine bright like a star OR he'll be a madman. We won't know until the last episode. LOL. 

Is there a love triangle? Of course! It's a Korean drama! There is more than one love triangle and some interesting family ties. I love all of those complicated relationships.

I have a silly complaint though. I don't really like the costumes from the Goryeo Dynasty (AD 918-1392). I like the clothes they wore during the Joseon historical period. But hey! It's history. If that was the fashion back then, I'll just have to accept it.

Korean Drama Series: The Village: Achiara's Secret (2015)

The Village: Achiara's Secret is a crime and mystery K-drama series with 16 episodes.

A serial rapist and murderer (SRM) has evaded capture by the police for 30 years. Han So-Yoon, a young English teacher receives an anonymous letter regarding a sister she thought was dead. She relocates from Canada to Achiara, a small village in Korea, to find her sister, Kim Hye-Jin. Shortly after arriving, she accidentally discovers her sister's skeletal remains. It is clear her sister died a violent death.

• Law enforcement officials think she may have been a victim of the SRM they have been trying to capture.

• Political officials have an agenda and a “secret”. Investigating Kim Hye-Jin's death might expoe the secret and thwart their agenda. They push to close the case as an accidental death. But the politicians are not the only ones in the village with secrets.

• Han So-Yoon does not believe her sister was an SRM victim, nor does she believe her death was accidental. The coroner said Kim Hye-Jin's body had been buried for at least two (2) years. Two years? In such a small village where everybody knows everybody, her sister had been missing for two years and nobody asked about her? WHY? Han So-Yoon is determined to find out who brutally murdered her sister and why. But the more she tries to uncover the truth, the more people of the village try to hide Achiara's Secret.

With each episode, more questions get asked. Slowly but surely, Han So-Yoon begins to unravel the mystery of crimes that investigators had been trying to solve for 30 years, along with other crimes, including her sister's murder. It was a very intricate web.

Main Characters:

• Han So-Yoon played by Moon Geun-Young

• Park Woo-Jae played by Yook Sung-Jae

• Yoon Ji-Sook played by Shin Eun-Kyung

• Kim Hye-Jin played by Jang Hee-Jin

• Seo Gi-Hyun played by On Joo-Wan

• Seo Yoo-Na played by Ahn Seo-Hyun

Where to Watch

Along With The Gods: The Two Worlds (2017) | Korean Drama That Explores the Afterlife and Reincarnation

Along With The Gods: The Two Worlds, released in 2017, is a film that explores Buddhist beliefs regarding the afterlife and reincarnation.  It is based on the webtoon series by Joo Ho-min.

Kim Ja Hong (played by Cha Tae Hyun, “Brain Works”) is a courageous firefighter who died in the line of duty. When he enters the afterlife he finds himself being escorted by a team of guardians. They inform him that he died and that he must go through seven (7) otherworldly courts. In each court, there are specific things that he has done in his life and he will either be judged innocent or guilty.

The Three Guardians are:

• Hae Won Maek (played by Joo Ji Hoon),
• Gang Rim (played by Ha Jung Woo), and
• Lee Deok Choon (played by Kim Hyang Gi).

They must attend each of his heavenly court trials, sort of as his team of defenders, and present proof that he has lived a virtuous life and therefore he should be reincarnated to live once again in the mortal realm. However, a problem has arisen that is making it difficult to prove his worth. It seems that his brother, Su Hong (played by Kim Dong Wook) has died a wrongful death, and has turned into a vengeful spirit. His brother's ghost is roaming around the earth venting his anger. Some of that anger is directed at Kim Ja Hong. He and his brother need to resolve their difference and reconcile with each other, so the trials can be completed. 

Of course, since Kim Ja Hong is dead and no longer on the earth, it might be hard to get in touch with his brother's spirit which has not left the earth. No worries. The guardians will find a way to bridge the two worlds.

Original source

Where to Watch ~ Along With the Gods: The Two Worlds

Movie Review: ‘Midway’ (2019) | A Certain Point of View, Too (Reblog)

An excellent review and comparison of two war movies both named "Midway". One released in 1976 with a powerful cast of stars including Charlton Heston and his contemporaries, released in 1976.  Per the reviewer:  "a messy mix of history and melodrama that aimed for historical accuracy but muddled it". Ouch!

The remake released in 2019. The cast? Not nearly as impressive.  Per the reviewer:  "Casual viewers will probably enjoy it; it is, after all, a film about one of the most famous U.S. victories of World War II; ... History buffs, though, will find more that is foul than fair in Midway." Uh-huh. I'm thinking that's not a compliment.

According to the movie reviewer Alex Diaz-Granados, it doesn't matter who the actors were, both films were disappointing. Quite frankly, I am very sorry to read this kind of review of a war movie. US military/war movies are for the express purpose of stoking one's patriotic fervor. It makes no sense to make a war movie that sucks! (O.o) There are veterans still alive who survived World War II. If they watch such movies, what must they think? Eh! It is what it is.  It's a movie!  If you want historical facts on record, you should probably watch a documentary.

I suppose if you just want to be entertained you should add either film to your Watch List.  But it's unlikely that you'll feel like jumping up and singing the Battle Hymn of the Republic when you get to The End.

Movie Review: ‘Midway’ (2019) | A Certain Point of View, Too

Image credit: Blu-ray cover art for Midway. (C) 2019 Lionsgate and Midway Islands Productions
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Related or Similar Content:

Two (2) Awesome Classic Movies For Your Watch List

These two films were made 20 years apart. But are two of the greatest movies in cinematic history. “Johnny Belinda” (1948) and “Wait Until Dark” (1967). 

There is no need to write a detailed blog post.  Trust this recommendation.  Not only watch them but re-watch them. :)  

What to Watch - Johnny Belinda 

What to Watch - Wait Until Dark 

K-Drama Review: Bad and Crazy (2021)

Bad and Crazy is a K-drama series released in 2021 that incorporates the topic of multiple personality disorders in its storyline.  But it is not based on a true story and should definitely not be construed as mental health advice.  

That being said, if you like detective shows you should add this show to your watch list.  It's very entertaining.

Image credit: Netflix

Lee Dong-Wook plays Ryu Sool-Yeol. He’s “The Bad”.

Although he’s not really a bad guy. He just wants career advancement in the law enforcement agency he works for and figures the best way to get a promotion is to overlook or cover up crimes that have been committed. All he has to do is neatly wrap things up, close the cases, and file them away. This way he gets promoted collects a steady paycheck, and does not upset the “higher ups” in the police department or in the government who could make his life miserable or even kill him to get him out of their way! He’s not bad. He’s just realistic. I mean … he’s no HERO! Or is he??

Wi Ha Joon plays “K”. He’s “The Crazy”.

When viewers are first introduced to this character, they might think that he’s possibly a ghost who decided to occupy Ryu Sool-Yeol’s body in order to make him do the right thing. But as time goes on, “K” is revealed as Ryu Sool-Yeol’s alter ego; a justice-seeking HERO! Whereas Ryu Sool-Yeol would get down on his knees and grovel at the feet of a corrupt politician he knows committed murder and agree not to expose his wrongdoing, “K” would publicly kick that politician in the face. slap him around, and call him a murderer, out loud in front of several witnesses who just can’t believe what they’re seeing. I mean … is he CRAZY??!!! “K” may act crazy, but “K,” says … he’s a HERO!!

So? Does Ryu Sool-Yeol have a split personality? Yes! Yes, he does.

But what happened to him to cause this mental health condition?

Not saying. No spoilers.

Original source

*****

Movie: Film Noir: Impact (1949)

I really enjoy a lot of old movies that can easily be found on YouTube. I like mysteries, but especially the genre that is called "film noir".   One such old movie is called "Impact", released in 1949. What I liked was the way the court case played out. If you haven't watched the movie I don't want to spoil the ending. If you like vintage film noir drama you'll probably like this movie.

WATCH: Impact - Full Movie | Brian Donlevy, Ella Raines, Charles Coburn

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Movie Review : Kung Fu Yoga (2017)

It was a slow night and I was ready to doze off but couldn't quite get to sleep.  I wanted to be entertained but not burdened with the sorrow of a tragedy or excited by the suspenseful intensity of a mystery or a thriller. I just needed something to watch and fall asleep afterward. Found a Jackie Chan movie that did the trick. Kung Fu Yoga (2017).  I didn't fall asleep on it though.  I watched it all the way to the end.

Per The Hollywood Reporter*, this India-China co-production project received negative reviews for perpetuating stereotypes. I think that criticism is valid. However, if you just want to not take life too seriously, kick back, chill out, and be entertained, add this movie to your watch list. They should at least get an A+ for figuring out how to work martial arts action scenes into it and for the fact that the movie was somewhat educational as well as entertaining. It addressed the links between the histories of ancient China and ancient India. 

If you're already a Jackie Chan fan you know to expect some lighthearted comedy. However, if the critics were expecting something different, then I can understand their disappointment. *REF: Jackie Chan's 'Kung-Fu Yoga' Slammed by Indian Critics for Perpetuating Stereotypes by Nyay Bhushan; 2/5/2017 : hollywoodreporter.com/news/jackie-chans-kung-fu-yoga-slammed-by-indian-critics-perpetuating-stereotypes-972335

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Well!  Everyone is entitled to their opinions.  I used to watch a cartoon series with one of my kids and as far as giving out ratings for “adorable cuteness” this cartoon has maintained the Number One spot on my list for years. However, "Kung Fu Yoga" bumped it from its spot. 

I gave this film gets 5 out of 5 stars for adorable cuteness. 

Why? The final scene. Don't want to spoil it if you haven't seen the movie, but that last scene in the movie booted "Kung Fu Yoga" straight to the top of my Adorable Cuteness Entertainment List.

Jackie Chan Movies on Amazon

A Woody Allen Classic Clip: Being Jewish Among Gentiles (Reblog)

This movie won an Oscar but I've never heard of heard of it. That's because I am not really a Woody Allen fan. I know that there are many many people who praise him for is comedic genius, but I was just never into him. However, after reading this movie review, I have added it to my watch list. I'm going to save this for a day when it's rainy or cold and I've comfy under a warm blanket with a bucket of popcorn. Or? Maybe I shouldn't have any popcorn because according to the movie reviewer I'm going to be laughing a lot!  I don't want to choke and cough all through the movie. ☺☺

"It's been 36 years since the release of Annie Hall, the Woody Allen film that won Oscars for Best Picture, Best Director (Allen) and Best Actress (Diane Keaton.) But still the movie attracts viewers and stirs funny memories wherever it's shown. ..."

Con't reading:

A Woody Allen Classic Clip: Being Jewish Among Gentiles

This blog has archived posts which date all the way back to 2009.  They publish daily.  Enjoy more recent content from this blog:

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Comedy, Oscar-Winning (Sorted by Year Ascending) - IMDb

10 Best Films Of Woody Allen

The Top 10 Woody Allen Films (That He Doesn't Appear In)

The best Woody Allen movies of all time

Woody Allen - Prime Video: Movies & TV - Amazon.com

Are You Prepared to Watch Matrix 4?

I have been a fan of Keanu Reeves ever since I first saw him in a Paula Abdul music video.  I didn't even know his name.  ☺❤

If you are a loyal fan of Keanu Reeves and/or the Matrix, then this tidbit is for you. 

On my Amazon/Toshiba Fire TV that my kids gave me for Christmas, I installed an app called PLUTO TV. You can watch FREE movies and television shows. They have an On Demand and a Live feature. So you can either watch what's playing at the moment OR you can check the On Demand library and watch something at your convenience. 

Right now (as of Aug 2021) you can watch the Matrix Trilogy On Demand. If you have not seen all of the Matrix movies, it's a good time to binge-watch all 3 of them. That way you'll be fully prepared to watch Matrix 4, when it is released. LOL. ☺

Matrix 4 unveils official title and action-packed first footage | EW.com 

Matrix 4 unveils official title and action-packed first footage | https://t.co/7Vc3Op9i9a https://t.co/Qkn2wLbPUP

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) August 25, 2021

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#entertainment #watchlist #5stars #movies #bestofthebest @goshoppingbees pic.twitter.com/yB5SLjT7ZD

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) August 25, 2021

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Awesome Korean Drama Based on True Love Story: Dong Yi (2010)

HA! That stands for hooked again!! My new addiction is watching Korean historical drama TV series. There are way too many of them for me to keep up. They are so exciting and interesting, even though the basic plot in most of the series is pretty much the same.

What's the basic plot, you ask?

Eh! Some palace intrigue on the inside, rivalry among the nobles and scholars on the outside, honorable slaves, and commoners who prove time again that being poor and uneducated does not equal stupid! ... and of course, the love triangle.  No Korean drama is complete without the love triangle. △

For each series, the script writers take this plot, create different and intricate twists and turns, and develop characters that make the viewers immediately choose sides and start rooting for them! I like this lady or this man! But that person has got to go! When the ruthless evil characters finally go down, you're pumping your fist in the air and going Yeah! A flood of relief washes over you and then you have to remind yourself that it's just a TV show. :)

 

Image credit: Official poster found at viki.com

While seeking and finding more and more historical series to satisfy my K-drama addiction, found “Dong Yi” (2010). This television program is directed by Lee Byung Hoon, who also directed "Jewel in the Palace" (2003).

Reviews indicate that Hoon's 2003 series was extremely successful, so it went on my watch list. But because the 2010 series includes in its cast an admirable child actress, Kim Yoo Jung, who also starred in “Tamra the Island” (2009) and “The Moon Embracing the Sun” (2012) ~ her cute little face drew me in. The series is based on the life of a real historical person: Royal Noble Consort Suk of the Haeju Choi clan.

{Side Note – According to recent reports in South Korean entertainment news publications, Ms. Jung's latest project, “Moonlight Drawn By Clouds” aired its first episode during the 4th week of this month, August 2016. It is being well received.  Series at viki.com.}

Back on point. The child character played by little Ms. Jung, is a “commoner”, i.e. not born into a noble family, who grows up into a beautiful and intelligent, caring and compassionate young woman, played by Han Hyo Joo. The character's name is … what else? Dong Yi!

She went from the child who had everything taken away from her to the woman who had the world laid at her feet. According to all the fortune tellers, “her light” was going to shine brightly in the land of Joseon.

Nothing annoys me more than reviews with spoilers, so extra precaution is taken to constrain myself and not to reveal too much. Here are my impressions so far.

Good start! Series starts off with a very peaceful idyllic scene of a man fishing and enjoying a quiet leisure moment. The silence is immediately shattered when the man is brutally murdered. But before he breathes his last breath, guess who finds him? A young child named Dong Yi!

Good fortune? I'll say! This lady was born under the Lisa Bonet lucky star. She got two hot guys wrapped around her finger! If you know who Lisa Bonet is and you watch this show, then you'll understand my meaning. :)

60 episodes and I've only reached the halfway mark. What's the hook the writers used to keep you interested all the way to the very end? A butterfly! Don't know about everybody else, but I love butterflies!

Dong Yi ~ Official Trailer

* * Related or Similar Articles:

Did Dong Yi and King Sukjong really have a long romance?

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Do You Heart Butterflies? | Webnuggetz.com

Original source

Watch Asian Dramas ~ Free Online Streaming

Random Mexican’s Movie Reviews: MOVIE REVIEW: UNHINGED (Reblog)

This reblog is from one of my favorite blogs for movie reviews. It's a quick review of a 2020 film which stars Russell Crowe.  I have followed Mr. Crowe's acting career but to be honest I have only really liked him as the Gladiator.  Based on this review, it could be added to your watch list for Friday night movies IF you don't mind movies rated C+.  In other words, you'll watch it only because you like Russell Crowe.

"Unhinged is a 2020 American thriller film directed by Derrick Borte, from a screenplay by Carl Ellsworth. ... It’s a brutal trip into madness that makes this film feel more like a horror film than a straightforward thriller. ..."

Con't reading:

• Random Mexican’s Movie Reviews: MOVIE REVIEW: UNHINGED

Lots of people have shared their reviews.  Some say Crowe is fantastic but the story line could have been better.  More Reviews.

Image credit: Amazon.com