#also the korean soldier is so sweet in this episode it makes me feel a bit ill. s4e7 the bus you will always be famous.......

[rpfofficial]

peace and love on planet earth btw

[starseedfxofficial]

North Korea's Surprise Role: What Forex Traders Should Know Insider Trading in Disguise? North Korea Enters the Fray, and the Market Just Got Spicier If the financial world had its own drama series, today’s episode would be something like "Game of Currencies: The Rise of Unpredictable Allies." And right in the midst of the action, we have North Korea flexing its military presence in the ongoing Ukraine conflict—a plot twist that even the most cynical Forex trader wouldn’t have bet on. With US Secretary of State Blinken dropping news bombs about North Korean troops joining the party, all of us currency watchers should start paying attention—not to the soldiers, but to the subtle movements of the ruble and euro. Why North Korea Matters to Your Trading Desk Let’s cut to the chase—why should you, the trader looking for your next opportunity, care about North Korea's involvement in Ukraine? Well, think of it as if the market just put on a blindfold and tried to hit a bullseye—more chaos means more unpredictability, and, for some of you, more chances to cash in. As Blinken himself said, North Korea’s entry into this conflict is a "grave concern for all G7." But let's translate that into Forex-speak: volatility is about to spike, especially for currencies tied to stability, like the euro. If you’ve ever found yourself long on the euro during times of uncertainty, you know how those sharp dips feel—kind of like buying shoes online only to realize they’re two sizes too big (ouch!). So, brace yourself—the euro might be slipping off your feet if you’re not prepared to pivot. Hidden Opportunities in Russian Frozen Assets Now, here’s where the real magic happens—no, it’s not a card trick, it’s about assets (stay with me!). Blinken mentioned that the US is finalizing the release of a USD 50 billion package funded by frozen Russian sovereign assets. This is the point where you need to perk up. That amount is not just some arbitrary number—it's fuel for Ukraine’s war effort, but indirectly, it’s also a catalyst for market shifts, particularly when it comes to the ruble and broader Eastern European currencies. Advanced Trade: Ruble Oscillations and Under-the-Radar Plays But here's where things get spicy—are you ready for a contrarian perspective? Russia’s ruble has been on a roller coaster ride since the conflict began, and with new warheads—albeit empty ones, according to sources—flying around, expect more oscillations. Conventional wisdom would tell you to steer clear of these erratic swings, but if you're the kind of trader who finds beauty in chaos, consider setting up a watchlist for pairs involving the ruble and lesser-known currencies from neighboring regions. The reason? Low-volume trades mean hidden opportunities—kind of like the section of the supermarket where all the discounted items are quietly waiting for you to snatch them up. Kim Jong Un and Trump, Together Again? A Wild Card for the USD Another market-moving nugget today: Trump’s team might be weighing direct talks with Kim Jong Un—cue the unpredictable headlines. Now, before you start thinking about meme-worthy photos of Trump and Kim shaking hands, take a second to reflect on the implications for the USD. Any direct engagement with North Korea will certainly be newsworthy, and the dollar loves to act out during moments like these. Trading Tip: Timing Is Everything (Seriously, Set Alerts!) For those wanting to capitalize on these moves—timing is everything. Trump has a flair for making announcements when traders least expect them, so setting alerts on your economic news terminals could mean the difference between getting in at the sweet spot or watching from the sidelines as the price action leaves you in the dust. And let’s not kid ourselves—missing out on an opportunity like this feels about as great as forgetting your stop-loss on a leveraged position. A Stubborn BoE and the Labor Market—Pondering Inflation Meanwhile, across the pond, BoE's Lombardelli is waving the caution flag again—US tariffs could take a toll on the UK’s economic growth, and inflation remains an elusive beast. If you’re trading GBP/USD, keep a close eye on any rhetoric regarding the tight UK labor market. Lombardelli herself is “worried”—and if central bankers are openly expressing concern, it’s wise to listen. Emerging Trends: Services Inflation and GBP/USD One under-the-radar insight? Services inflation is still above pre-COVID levels, which means that the GBP might have more inherent weakness than the broader market expects. So, before you start accumulating pounds, take a minute to gauge the risk—sometimes it’s better to sip on a bitter cup of coffee (looking at you, Robusta lovers!) than to get burned. Elite Tactics for Today’s News - Keep an eye on EUR/USD—North Korea’s involvement means more unpredictability in Europe. - Watch for opportunities involving Eastern European currencies and the ruble. Low volume = potential hidden gems. - Set news alerts for potential Trump-Kim developments—volatility is inevitable. - Monitor the GBP, especially with services inflation concerns and Lombardelli’s caution regarding tariffs. Remember, the game is about seeing the opportunities others miss—so keep your eyes peeled, your humor sharp, and your strategy even sharper. And when it gets tough, think of it this way—at least you didn’t accidentally buy the wrong-sized shoes again, right? —————– Image Credits: Cover image at the top is AI-generated   Read the full article

[ifeelallwrite]

Let’s talk about Hospital Playlist. (KDRAMA REVIEW)

note: does contain spoilers

When people ask me what is my favorite Korean drama of all time, with no doubt, IT’S HOSPITAL PLAYLIST. This drama has the comic relief, the emotional scenes, realistic characters-just to name a few. No toxic relationships and petty revenge fights. Nothing else will stop me for saying that this is the ultimate feel good drama.

SYNOPSIS: The drama shows insights into the daily lives of doctors and nurses working at Yulje Medical Hospital. It focuses on 5 doctors who have been friends since medical school, who also play together as a band.

This drama encompasses so many elements and characters so bear with me yo this might be real long 

Hospital Playlist is produced/written by the Shin-Lee PD and writer pairing, whose previous works were the renowned Reply trilogy and Prison Playbook (which are *chef’s kiss*) I really like that all their dramas really highlight humanism, and puts emphasis on creating a heartwarming and realistic series. There isn’t always a major conflict to be resolved, but instead it showcases how different people-in this case mostly those in the medical field-go on about their daily lives.  I also liked their reasoning to produce a medical drama which was that hospitals were where the most dramatic moments occurred, for example during births, deaths or sickness. And since we are still in the Covid-19 pandemic, it ties in greatly to be paying homage to all the medical personnel saving lives. Hence, props to those who were involved in this meaningful masterpiece <3

The drama is not the usual 16 episodes, but has 12 episodes for each season (SEASON 2 IS COMING SOON YAAS) Good thing is I felt that they were still able to weave a dynamic storyline in the first season even with lesser episodes. The writing was just top-notch with the witty humor bits. Additionally, the music is AMAZING. I love the concept of the main characters being a band and playing different songs every episode too.

Okay, now onto the characters. I thought that every character in this drama was well rounded. Starting of with the main five characters, also known as The 99ers, whose distinctive personalities and natural chemistry make all of them extremely likeable. All main characters are professors of different specialties, and I find the male OB-GYN (Seokhyeong) and female neurosurgeon (Songhwa) very refreshing. Also, I like Shin-Lee dramas always have characters that might be realistic yet hardly seen in other dramas or films. For example, Professor Ahn Jeongwon. Despite being a chaebol (inheritor/heir), he isn’t depicted as a spoilt brat or a cold character, instead as a warm Pediatric doctor who uses his wealth to secretly support patients in need. However it makes him stingy to his friends LOL

To be honest, I really thought I was gonna dislike Junwan due to his cold and tsundere nature. I pretty much believed that he was going to be the party pooper type of the bunch, but with the writer being a master of character development, he turned out to be really sincere and hilarious at times. Same for Ikjun, who apart from his enthusiastic and happy go lucky exterior, cares the most about the people around him. Although Seokhyeong seemed detached and introverted, he shows a emotional side to his friends as well as his mother. Songhwa is literally a girlboss though haha she’s smart, capable and gets along with everyone well. And she’s the most sane out of the bunch. 

With all the main characters, we have the relationships. Junwan is the first to date seriously with Iksun (the dog or Micky? jkjk) who is Ikjun’s sister. When it first happened I was like not again Jung Kyung Ho (bc he dated his best friend’s sis in prison playbook too LMAO) I think their relationship was realistic and open. It also showed a more sensitive side to Junwan who would do anything for her. I especially liked how he said he didn’t need access to her phone because he trusted her. Yet as all couples do, they have their fair share of ups and downs. Like conflicts on getting married and a long distance relationship as Iksun moves overseas for graduate studies. I don’t really know how to take the ambiguous ending for these two, as Junwan receives the returned box (that has the ring he sent) I really hope nothing bad happens to these two though.

I’m sure we all love Wintergarden couple though, tbh they’re kinda my OTP at the moment 🤣 It was pretty much a ‘will they won’t they’ relationship with a relatively slow build. I think Gyeoul turned out to be one of my favourite characters. Shin Hyun Been did a good job at portraying her as a straightforward but innocent Resident, who is pretty much openly crushing on Jeongwon. The scenes they had together were adorably awkward (and the scene where he gives her chocopies omg) And when Jeongwon battles his inner conflict to become a priest, the final decision where they kiss was beautifully shot, with the actors both showcasing their emotions extremely well. 

Then we have Chihong who pursues Songhwa, his professor. Midway through the drama, it is also shown that Ikjun and Songhwa might have had romantic feelings for each other. Songhwa ends up rejecting Chihong’s confession. In my opinion, Chihong was quite a interesting character but I didn’t really like him at the end. (I like the actor though) He did a real jerk move during drinking games, insisting on Ikjun to confess his feelings towards her even though he is already trying not to put Songhwa in an awkward spot. Although his character did end up making a cool exit and when I thought about his incredible story of soldier to doctor, I kinda regret disliking him that much. As for IkSong, In the final episode Ikjun confesses to her one last time, and we are left waiting for Songhwa’s reply. As much as I love this pairing, I don’t think that the ship will sail or maybe not as quickly as we think. I believe Songhwa would meticulously consider the sacrifices to their friendship or other aspects and might not be able to bring herself to it, but I hope it’s otherwise. 

Lastly not forgetting Seokhyeong and Minha, another Professor+resident pairing. This one’s a bit ambiguous though, mainly because there hasn’t been much romantic development. To me, the most impactful scene came from Minha who had been irritated by continuous night shifts and was on the verge of a breakdown. She ended up remarkably saving a patient, starting off surgery on her own for the first time. Oh man Minha was such a lovable character, I remember feeling so bad for her but extremely proud of her for her accomplishment. Although Seokhyeong seemed a bit aloof and distant (which was intentional bc he’s an introvert) I think the backstory and all the hardships he faced with his family really made me feel for him. I hate to break it to you, but I’m not so sure if the ship will sail because of the phone call from his ex-wife and Minha’s somewhat rejected confession. But who knows, they might pull off a twist 👀

Apart from all these characters, there are more characters HHAHAH However, I think this is the killing point of ShinLee dramas. Unlike typical dramas which usually focuses on a main character and 2-3 side characters, they like to cast a diverse range of actors (especially those from theatre/musicals and lesser known drama/movie actors) while actually give their characters personality or a reason to be there. I’ve seen many dramas where extras or side characters were kind of irrelevant thus making me feel that they weren’t needed to build the storyline, yet ShinLee dramas hit different y’all. Every role, no matter how small, holds significance to the drama. It really seemed like a collaborative work that shows off every actors skills (and not forgetting staffs) and teamwork.

Anyways because there are way too many characters and too many scenes for me to mention them all, I’ll just talk about some honourable mentions heheh

1. Sunbin and Seokmin confession scene (ahh so cute)

I kinda sensed that they liked each other at the start but I didn’t know Seokmin would ask her out on a date at the end. Even though it’s kinda awkward that they are dating and working with each other though (both are in the same department) but hey the confession was cute and awkward and just warm and fuzzy 🥰

2. MAMA ROSA IS THE QUEENN

I think we all (would) love Mama Rosa because she’s a real one ☝️ (probably the coolest mother ever) She’s feisty, hilarious and kind to others. Plus her friendship with Ju Jong Su was just adorable and super wholesome. The scenes where they were supporting one another through tough times and hanging out with each other when they felt lonely always put a smile on my face. Oh and how Mama Rosa treated Gyeoul was extremely sweet. (as well as Seokhyeong’s mother) Despite her tough exterior, she’s a likeable character for being a strong but caring woman.

3. Just Do Jae Hak

I seriously love this guy so muchhh omg he’s so funny

Do Jae Hak has a funny amd clumsy personality, though it’s clear he’s been through a lot and is strong willed person. From admitting his indecisiveness to counselling Jun Wan on his love issues, there’s literally nothing to hate about him.

4. Uju and his dadd

The father and son chemistry between these two is so good omg. The scenes with these two are so adorable and heartwarming (not to mention hilarious) It’s amazing to see how Ikjun cares so much for Uju despite his hectic workdays while going through infidelity issues with his ex-wife. Uju is matured for his age and shows his love and appreciation for his dad too, making their interaction a great portrayal of a healthy family relationship💞

5. the food stealing the show🥘

Who doesn’t love food and when a show has great food scenes? Some of the best scenes are definitely when the 99s gather to eat. It really showcases each character’s personality with the tiniest details as well as highlight warm delicious meals. Just don’t watch this when you’re hungry at 2am in the morning guys you’ll be drooling all over your screens HAHAHA

Of course there are way more aspects, like Hongdo and Yoonbok, Ikjun and Iksun’s pigeon jokes and raps, or Jeongwon drunk crying in the chicken shop with his brother (who was his coach in Reply 1994 when he played Chilbong LOL)

Most importantly, I think it is the themes and messages that you get from the drama that really create such a lasting impression. Not only does it hit you in the feels with the hardships of hospital patients, or the hardworking doctors+nurses who are working long shifts saving lives, it also tackles topics of friendships through the possibilities of platonic and friends-to-lovers relationships. However I think the biggest lesson for me came from Seokhyeong, who learns to live his life doing what he want, with the people he treasures. Although the drama might seem slow at times (mainly because there isn’t really a main plot line/conflict occurring), but this drama would still bring you on a journey where you would laugh, cry and finish the series, begging for season 2 ✌🏻

[kdramaxoxo]

do you have any recs specifically for kdramas that are available on netflix in the us? thanks!

Hi Anon!

Happy to make some recs - It used to be hard to do, but now Netflix has a bunch!

Great K-Dramas on Netflix (United States)

Just an FYI that Netflix has wildly different licensing depending on where you live and these are the ones I recommend if you live in the US).

Chicago Typewriter (Fantasy/romance): I loooooove this kdrama about three people who are connected by their past fates. It’s in my top 10 and I’ll put in on any rec list I can. The historical portion is super interesting, and the chemistry of all three main actors is just the best! Yoo Ah In…I just love him. Best kiss scene!

Run On (Romance, Slice of life): A slice of life romance that follows an athlete and a translator, a sports manager and a painter. It’s really smartly written, has super unique characters and I just really loved it. If you don’t like slow burn, you might want to skip this one but I found the romance and the storylines really enjoyable.

Hello My Twenties: (Slice of life): a bingeworthy drama about a group of college students living in the same house. Friendship, romance, coming of age.

Extracurricular (thriller): This kdrama isn’t for the faint of heart but I think everyone should watch it. It’s not filmed like a k-drama and has a different feel then I’m used to. Full of twists and turns, this drama follows a quiet kid who has a part-time job that’s not exactly legal. He “befriends” a girl he has a crush on and well, no spoilers!!

Live Up To Your Name (fantasy/romance/comedy/medical): A fun drama about a historical doctor who ends up traveling to the future and meets a modern doctor. I love this couple and the show is great, though I personally do not like medical stuff. The good news is if you are like me, you can fast forward all of the procedures and you will not miss any of the plot. Soft couple alert.

Hospital Playlist (Workplace): A group of five friends who met in college all work at the same hospital together. They are all so different but lean on one another and love each other regardless of their flaws. It’s funny, emotional and the perfect slice of life (though heads up on the long episodes).

Mystic Pop Up Bar (fantasy/found family): A fantasy k-drama that centers itself on found family. Two spirits from the afterlife set up a bar where they find humans who need to settle grudges. When the lady realizes a soft and sweet customer service boy at the local market can read people’s thoughts, she “hires” him to help out. My heart was completely taken by these three and the security guard.

Oh My Ghost (rom com/fantasy): Adorable and super fun k-drama about a shy and quiet girl who becomes possessed by a sassy and flirty ghost. Great story, great chemistry.

Crash Landing On You (Romcom/Melo): A South Korean celebrity accidentally ends up in North Korea for k-drama reasons and is helped by a soft hearted soldier and his crew. It’s one of those totally ridiculous plot lines that makes a K-drama a k-drama - You know, the ones with chaebols and all sorts of tropes, and a lot of plot that ignores reality. Still, the couple is adorable and the found family is amazing.

The Uncanny Counter (Fantasy/superhero/found family): A group of four people were brought back from comas to fight evil. It’s got real heart and you’ll love every “counter.” The found family and friendships were the best!

Stranger (Thriller/Crime): A k-drama featuring a quirky crime solving due: a prosecutor who has lost his ability to feel empathy and his (obviously gay) brilliant and quirky detective partner. This drama has NO romance and is more about political corruption and mystery.

Because This Is My First Life (Romcom, Slice-of-life): I absolutely love this drama about a total sweetheart who gets married in order to have a place to live. A lot of the story is also about her close friends (one of which: Soo-ji, is one of my favorite ladies ever!) It’s funny, heartfelt, and has a very interesting relationship dynamic. I’d say it’s in my top 10 dramas, except that the lead is a creep IRL so I actually will not watch anything is he cast in (I did not know when I watched this drama and dangit I really really love it).

When The Camellia Blooms: (Slice-of-life/Romance): A really well done slice of life drama about a single mom who opens a bar. Lots of great small town characters and her son is like, the smartest kid in the world? The romance is very fluffy too.

Itaewon Class: An optimistic underdog opens his own restaurant to honor his father. He hires in a rag tag bunch of randos who will all win your heart! (well, one of them will not but I won’t say who ;-). I found some of the plot points frustrating, but the chef and one of the waiters are two of my favorite characters ever.

Psycho But It’s Okay: A gorgeous k-drama featuring two brothers who lost their mother, and a beautiful & famous author who grew up in a traumatic and abusive household. Everyone is very closed off and holding onto intense pain, but the three come together to help one another move on and create their own family. There’s also a really pretty narrative theme featuring fairytales.

One Spring Night (Romance): A romance between a single dad and a girl who comes into his pharmacy. It’s one of those more realistic toned dramas and has a very specific slower moving pace.

Kingdom (Zombie Horror): Seriously only watch this if you are not looking for a non-kdrama-y k-drama because this show is scary. A historical drama about messy kingdom politics and a terrifying zombie outbreak. I dare you not to fall in love with the lead or Bae Doona.

A Korean Odyssey (Fantasy/Romance): Honestly this show is a bit of a mess, but it’s very creative so I just want to give it some props. A cursed demon falls in love with the spirit-seeing human who cursed him. Lots of funny demon in-fighting and while the plot gets really wonky, I still think it’s worth a watch. (you’ll know right away if you don’t like it so you can just drop it if it’s not your thing :)

Reply 1988 (Slice of life/romance/family & friendship): Taking place in 1988-89, this drama tells the stories of a group of families who live on the same block. It’s very heartfelt, funny, sad and super well made. A fan favorite.

Other good ones that I haven’t finished (yet)

Navillera

My Country

Everyone also loves Vincenzo but I haven’t seen it yet

Enjoy!

[thisbluespirit]

James Maxwell TV/Film List

More of a guide than a recs list, because old tv/film depends so much on availability.  It’s also hard as there’s nothing surviving that’s really like SotT for him (his voice is always slightly different, too & rarely the grand one from SotT) - I found it hard to find where to start back in the day, so I hope this makes it easier.  However, I have starred my favourites (rated for JM content only). 

I’ve divided things into categories and @jurijurijurious​ (or anyone) can make up their own mind as to what to go for.  (Also @jurijurijurious I have NO idea what old telly you’ve already seen, so forgive me if I’m telling you things you already know.)

Where to find it:  Luckily in the UK, it’s not too bad!  Network Distributing are the DVD supplier to keep an eye on (they do great online sales), you can find secondhand things cheap on Amazon Marketplace & eBay, and several Freeview channels show old TV & film, especially Talking Pictures.  I’ll note if things are on YT or Daily Motion, but they come and go all the time, so it’s always worth searching.

***

Film serials (ITC mainly)

British TV made on film in the US mode with transatlantic cash, so generally pretty light,  episodic (continuity is almost unheard of) etc.  Some turn up on ITV3 & 4 on a regular basis (colour eps). 

*** Dangerman “A Date With Doris” (ITC 1964)  James Maxwell is a British spy friend of Drake’s (Patrick MacGoohan) called Peter who gets framed for murder.  Drake goes to Fake Cuba to rescue him by which time JM is dying from an infected wound and faints off every available surface, including the roof.  It’s great.  On YT.  (The boxset is v pricey if you just want 2 eps.)

“Fair Exchange” (ITC 1964) JM is a German spy friend of Drake’s called Pieter who helps him out on a case.  Not as gloriously hurt/comfort-y as the other, but it does have some excellent undercover dusting. (Why  Patrick MacGoohan has JM clones all called variations on Peter dotted around the globeis a mystery.)  On YT.

The Saint “The Inescapable Word” (ITC 1965) This is pretty terrible, but  entertaining and James Maxwell plays the world’s most hopeless former-cop-turned-security guard. With bonus collapsing.  On YT.

“The Art Collectors” (1967).  JM is the villain of the week.  It does include a v funny bit, though, where the Saint (Roger Moore) goes for JM’s fake hair (and who can blame him?  How often I have felt the same!)  This one’s in colour so should pop up on ITV3 or 4. 

The Champions “The Silent Enemy” (ITC 1968).  Surprisingly good JM content as the villain of the week who drugs sailors and steals their clothes before realising that maybe he should have worked out if he could operate a sub before he stole it.

The Protectors “The Bridge” (ITC 1974, 30 mins.)  Not worth seeking out on its own, but ITV4 seems fond of it and James Maxwell gets to do some angsting and wears purple, so it’s worth snagging if you can, but too slight otherwise.

*** Thriller “Good Salary, Prospects, Free Coffin” (ITC 1975; 1hr 10mins, I think).  James Maxwell moves in with Julian Glover and runs an overcomplicated murdery spy ring where they bicker a lot in between killing girls by advertisement and burying them in the back garden.  What could possibly go wrong??  Anyway, it’s solid gold cheese, has bonus Julian Glover and a lot of natty knitwear.  What more does an old telly fan want?  (tw: Keith Barron being inexplicably the very meanest Thriller boyfriend.)  On YT but tends to get taken down fast.

***

Films

Design for Loving (1962; comedy).  Can be rented from the BFI online for £3.50.  Isn’t that great or that bad (or that funny either), but does have JM as a dim layabout beatnik, which is atypical.

***The Traitors (1962).  This is a low-key little 1hr long spy B-movie, but it’s also thoughtful and ambiguous with a nice 60s soundtrack and location work (it’s a bit New Wave-ish) and the central duo of JM and Patrick Allen are sweet and it all winds up with James Maxwell going in the swimming pool. One of the things where JM is actually American. (Talking Pictures show this occasionally & it is out on DVD as an extra on The Wind of Change.)  The quality of the surviving film is not great, though.

***Girl on Approval (1962).  A Rachel Roberts kitchen sink drama about a couple fostering a difficult teenager.  It’s dated, but it’s also really interesting for a 1950s/60s slice of life (and very female-centric) & probably the only time on this list JM played an ordinary person.

***Otley (1969).  Comedy that’s generally dated surprisingly well & is good fun, starring Tom Courtenay +cameos from what seems like the whole of British TV.  JM is an incompetent red herring & there are more cardies and glasses as well as a random barometer. 

Old Vic/Royal Exchange group productions

(Surviving works made by the group that JM was involved in from drama school to his death, made by Michael Elliott or Casper Wrede.  I like them a lot mostly, but they are all slow and weird and earnest & not everybody’s cup of tea.)

Brand (BBC 1959).  The BBC recording of the 59 Company’s (the name they were then using) landmark production, starring Patrick MacGoohan.  This was a big deal in British theatre & launched the careers of everybody involved.  It’s very relentless and weird but interesting & I’m glad they decided it was important enough to save.  First fake beard alert of this post.  It won’t be the last.  On YT & there is a DVD, which is sometimes affordable and sometimes £500, depending on the time of day.

***Private Potter (1962).  The original TV play is lost and this film has an extraneous storyline, but otherwise has most of the TV cast & gives a pretty good idea of why as a claustrophobic talky TV piece it made such an impact.  Tom Courtenay is Private Potter, a soldier who claims to have had a vision of God during a mission & James Maxwell his CO who needs to decide what to do about this strange excuse for disobeying orders.  Tw: fake eyebrows (!) and moustaches.  Only available on YT.

[???]One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovitch (1970).  Again, no DVD release (no idea why), but it is on YT.  I haven’t seen this yet, but it’s another Casper Wrede effort starring Tom Courtenay and apparently JM is especially good in it.  (I’m just not good at watching long things on YT and keep hoping for a DVD or TV showing.)

Ransom (1974).  A more commercial effort starring Sean Connery & Ian McShane; it gets slated as not being a good action movie, but is clearly meant to be more thinky and political with the edge of a thriller. JM’s part isn’t large but Casper Wrede shoots his friend beautifully, & it’s a pretty decent film with nice cinematography, shot in Norway, as was One Day.  I liked it.

[I think this post might be the longest in the world, whoops.  Sorry!]

Cardboard TV (the best bit, obv)

One-off plays etc./mini-series

Out of the Unknown “The Dead Planet” Adaptation of an Asimov short story; this is very good for JM, but hard to get hold of unless you want the boxset.  I think someone has some of the eps on Daily Motion.  (His other OotU ep is sadly burninated.)

The Portrait of a Lady (BBC 1968).  Adaptation of the novel; JM is Gilbert Osmond, so it is great for JM in quantity and his performance, but depends how you feel about him being skeevy in truly appalling facial hair.  Do the bow ties and hand-holding make up for it?  but he’s in 5 whole episodes, and Suzanne Neve, faced with Richard Chamberlain, Edward Fox, and Ed Bishop as suitors, chooses instead to marry the worst possible James Maxwell.  Relatable. XD

***Dracula (ITV 1968, part of Mystery & Imagination).  JM is Dr Seward, fainty snowflake of vampire hunters, who falls over, sobs and can’t cope for most of the 1 hr 20 mins.  More facial hair, but not as offensive as last time.  Suzanne Neve is back again, although now JM is nice, she’s married Corin Redgrave, who’s more into Denholm Elliott. Anyway, I love this so much because it turned out that I love Dracula as well as shaky old TV with people I like in getting to fight vampires and all be shippy.  Good news - TP keep showing M&I, the DVD is out, and there are two versions of it up on YT.

The Prison (Armchair Cinema 1974).  This is the one with Lincoln in it, but it’s not that great & JM isn’t in it that much, so depends how curious you are for the modern AU!  (But my Euston films allergy is worse than my ITC allergy, and I watched this when very unwell, so I may have been unfair.)

Crown Court “Fitton vs. Pusey” (1973) - part of the Crown Court series, set in a town full of clones who all keep returning to court.  JM is on trial for his behaviour in (the Korean war?  I forget?) although he ought to be on trial for his terrible moustache.  It’s not that great, but it is nice JM content.  He probably did it, but for reasons, and he wibbles & panics whenever his wife leaves the courtroom.  Also on YT.

*** Raffles “The Amateur Cracksman” (ITV 1975) - He is Inspector Mckenzie in the Raffles pilot & is a lot of fun.  At one point when there was a Raffles fandom someone in it claimed he was too gay for Raffles, which I’m still laughing about, because Raffles.  Anyway, watch out if you try to get the DVD because it is NOT included in S1, whatever lies Amazon tells. It is up somewhere online, though, I think.

Bognor “Unbecoming Habits” (1981).  Some down marks for possibly the worst 80s theme & incidiental music ever, but fun & has been shown on Talking Pictures lately.  JM is an Abbot running a honey-making friary that is actually a hotbed of spies, murder, gay sex and squash playing.  This is the point at which he chooses to strip off on screen for the first time, because strong squash-playing abbots do that kind of thing apparently.

Guest of the week in ongoing series/serials

Since even series with a lot of continuity tended to write episodes as self-contained plays (like SotT), these are usually accessible on their own.

Manhunt “Death Wish” (1970).  This is one of the most serialised shows here, but this episode is still fairly contained.  WWII drama about three Resistance agents on the run across France.  JM is... a Nazi agent & former academic trying to break an old friend (one of the series’ three leads, Peter Barkworth) with kindness, possibly??  (Manhunt is very angry and psychological & dark and obv. comes with major WWII warnings (& more if you want to try the whole thing), but it’s also v good.)  Up on YT, I think.

Doomwatch “The Iron Doctor” (BBC S2 1971).  “Doomwatch” is the nickname of a gov’t dept led by Dr Spencer Quist that investigates new scientific projects for abuse/corruption/things that might cause fish to make men infertile etc. etc.  JM is a surgeon who comes to their attention because he’s a bit too in love with his computer for the comfort of one of his more junior colleagues.  (I think it’s perfectly comprehensible & a nice guest turn, but it is hard to get hold of outside of the series DVD.  Which, being a cult TV person, I loved a lot anyway, but YMMV!)

***Hadleigh “The Caper” (S3 1973).  Hadleigh is a very middle of the road show, but watchable enough (lead is Gerald Harper, who’s always entertaining) and this is pretty self-contained as it centres around an old con-man friend (JM) of Hadleigh’s manservant causing trouble by pretending to be Gerald Harper, for reasons.  JM seems to be having a ball.

Justice 2 episodes, S3 1974.  He guests twice as an opposing barrister & gets to be part of some nice showdown court scenes.  Again, a middle of the road drama, but stars Margaret Lockwood, who was still just as awesome in the 1970s as she was in the 1930s & 40s.  On YT.

Father Brown “The Curse of the Golden Cross” (1974).  JM is an American archaeologist getting death threats; stars Kenneth More as Father Brown.  Just a note, though, that 1970s TV adaptations tended to be really really faithful and this is one of the stories where Chesterton comes out with an anti-semitic moment...  (JM was unconscious for that bit and, frankly, I envied him.)  But otherwise lots of angsting in yet another fake moustache about someone trying to kill him.

The Hanged Man “The Bridge Maker” (1975).  Confession time, I have v little idea what this one was about apart from Ray Smith being an unlikely Eastern European dictator, as this whole series went over my head and was not really my thing.  (Ask @mariocki they’re cleverer than me and liked it & can probably explain the plot!)  I don’t know if it’s available anywhere off the DVD but on a JM scale it was v good/different as he was a coldly villainous head of security & it wouldn’t be too bad to watch alone, but there was an overarching plot going on somewhere.

Doctor Who “Underworld” (1978).  This is famously one of the worst serials in the whole of classic Who, but largely because of behind-the-scenes circumstances, not the guest cast.  There is some nice stuff, though, esp in Ep1 (JM is a near-immortal alien who’d like to lay down and die but still the Quest is the Quest as they say... a lot) & it’s bound to pop up on YT or Daily Motion.  The DVD has extras that include v v brief bits of JM speaking in his actual real accent (which he otherwise does in NONE of these) & making jokes in character.  Honestly, though, this is the only DW where the behind-the-scenes doc is genuinely the most exciting bit as they desperately invented whole new technologies & methods of working to bring us this serial, and then everybody wished they hadn’t.

*** Enemy at the Door “Treason” (LWT 1978).  This is a weird episode but I love it lots - from a (v v good) series about the occupation of the Channel Islands.  (So obv warnings for WWII & Nazis.)  JM is a visiting German Generalmajor, but he’s come for a very unusual reason - to ask for help from his brother-in-law, a blackballed British army officer (Joss Ackland).  It’s all weird and low key and JM is doomed and nevertheless probably my favourite thing of his that isn’t SotT.

* The Racing Game 2 eps (1979).  Adaptation of Dick Francis’s first Sid Halley novel Odds Against (ep1) + 5 original stories for the series.  This is an interesting one - JM plays Sid’s father-in-law & they have a lovely relationship that’s central to the book BUT Dick Francis loved this adaptation and Mike Gwilym who played Sid and was inspired to write a sequel Whip Hand, which he tied in with TV canon - and adopted at least three of the cast, including JM.  Which means that all the Sid & Charles fanfic is also JM fic by default and it’s quite impressive. (There’s not much but it’s GOOD.)  On YT.

Bergerac “Treasure Hunt” (1981).  Not a major role, but pretty nice & it’s one a Christmas ep of the detective show (also set on the Channel Islands) that involved Liza Goddard’s cat burglar, which was always the best bit of Bergerac.

His guest spots in Rumpole of the Bailey (1991) “Rumpole a la Carte” and Dr Finlay (1994) are both really just cameos, but both series come round on Freeview; the Rumpole one is funny and the Dr Finlay one his last screen appearance before his death the following year.

Not worth getting just for JM: Subway in the Sky; Bill Brand and Oppenheimer.

These films only have cameos but some quite fun ones and they come around on terrestrial TV: The Damned (1962), The Evil of Frankenstein (1964) & (more briefly) Far From the Madding Crowd (1967).  (I think his cameo in Connecting Doors must be at least recognisable as someone spotted him in it just based off my gifs, but it’s not come my way yet.)  I’ve never been able to get hold of any of his radio performances, not even the 1990s one.

ETA: I forgot The Power Game! This is the one surviving series where he occurs as a semi-regular (at least until halfway through S1 when he went off to the BBC to be in the now-burninated Hunchback of Notre Dame).  This isn’t standalone, but it’s a good series and it is on YT.  See how you go with crackly old TV before you brave it but it’s the snarkiest thing ever made about people making concrete and stabbing each other in the back.  JM is a civil servant who tries to run the National Export Board and is plagued by Patrick Wymark and Clifford Evans as warring businessmen.

***

[... Well, now I just feel scary.  0_o  In my defence, I have been stuck home bored & ill for years, and often unable to watch modern TV while trying to cheer myself up with James Maxwell, so I didn’t watch all of this at once.  It just... happened eventually after SotT. /waves hand 

But if anyone feels the need to unfriend my quietly at this point, I understand. /o\]

[rossetteaaaaang]

THE COUNTRY THAT I ADMIRED

Have you been to South korea? If yes, I envy you. “South korea, East Asian nation on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula.” I always wanted to go in korea. You wanna know why?

I admire how South Koreans are so used to studying -- the country has the highest education level in Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries, with 98% of the population completing secondary education and 63% with a college education -- they can't get out of the habit once they reach the workforce.

As we all know, South korea is where our k-drama actors and actresses live. Of course from the word itself “k-drama or korean drama” silly me. K-drama or korean drama are television series or movies in the Korean language, made in South Korea. Korean dramas are popular worldwide, partially due to the spread of Korean popular culture, and their widespread availability via streaming services which often offer subtitles in multiple languages.

I know most of us millennials or even older or younger like or LOVE rather watching korean dramas. As for me, one of the reasons really, is that I would love to go to South Korea because of them. I'm an k-drama addict, you see. I mostly spend my time watching korean dramas and I cannot count anymore how many k-dramas I have already watched. I’m not expecting to finally meet them, but I still hope so. I want to go to many places, nice places that I have always seen in the series or movie. To feel like I was with them that time. I really always wanted to go to the country where they live.

Just like in the series, DOTS or descendants of the sun, D-day, School 2017, Sweet revenge 1, The odyssey, Weightlifting fairy, Strong woman, Legend of the blue sea, The heirs, Fight for my way and many more, my all time favorites. So let us see where this travelogue will bring us.

One of the places there in DOTS is Taekbaek Hanbo coal mine, the place where abandoned coal mines in Taebaek City, Gangwon Province, South Korea, were scenes of the soldiers’ military camp in fictional country Urk was filmed. It is where Captain Yoo Si Jin and Doctor Kang Mo-Yeon put the flag where the mines were, so that the people would know and be aware that it is dangerous to step.

Second place is Sorae Galmegi, one of the beloved Korean BBQ joints in Seoul, it is the perfect dining option for drama lovers who want to try out delicious local food. In the show, this is where the epic drinking session of the army occured. Song Hye Kyo joined 72 hours non stop drinking in Seoul too. This should come as no surprise, as drinking soju + eating mouthwatering pork cuts is one of favorite Korean pastimes.

Third, there are several scenes in the show that feature this cozy Korean coffee chain. Arguably the most memorable one is from the second episode in which Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo’s characters break up. We can find this branch of Dalkomm Coffee in the vicinity of Incheon Central Park, a lovely area in its own right.

Fourth, The European-style shopping mall lies in east Seoul, appearing in the show as a date spot for the two leads. As you glide through the lavishly decorated avenues, you can reenact the show and do a little shopping on the side.

Fifth is the modern architectural wonder located in Songo, Incheon. Its sleek, state-of-the-art appearance is one of the reasons why it appeared in a lot of drama. Tourists can climb up the tower to witness some of the most spectacular views of the Incheon Central Park and the surrounding area.

Sixth is Jaguen Maeul, Also known as Bok Chicken in Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo, Jageun Maeul is home to the fried chicken restaurant run by Bok Joo’s father in the show. Unlike the show, the restaurant serves a variety of Korean food instead. If you’re looking for an adventure outside of Seoul, Jaguen Maeul is the perfect place to relive Bok Joo and Joon Hyung’s awkward romance that made us swoon.

Seventh is Descendants of the Sun – Wolmido Island Theme Park, Fans may be disheartened to know that they can’t visit Uruk, the fictional country in which their love bloomed, but fret not! Many other sites of the drama can be found in Korea, including Wolmi Theme Park! Found on Wolmido Island near Incheon, the theme park is featured in the show’s first episode There, Si Jin and Dae Young are spending their time off trying to win themselves “girlfriends”, the show’s famous stuff toys.

Eight is Legend of the Blue Sea – Aqua Planet Yeosu, If the scene where Joon Jae and Shim Cheong reunite made your heart melt, this Legend of the Blue Sea set is the perfect place to relive the show’s romance. Multiple scenes were filmed at the aquarium, but this reunion scene was filmed in front of the Ocean’s Life main aquarium. The aquarium features over 280 species over 4 floors, and is said to be the second largest aquarium in Seoul.

Ninth is Boys Over Flowers – N Seoul Tower, As one of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul, it’s no surprise that the cult favourite drama Boys Over Flowers was filmed at Namsan Tower! The tower is where Jun pyo and Jan Di were supposed to have their romantic date. Famous for its gorgeous views of Seoul, it’s a popular date spot for couples. Who knows, you might even meet your own Jun Pyo while enjoying the view.

Tenth is The Heirs – Bukchon Hanok Village, A tiny traditional village in the heart of a bustling city, Bukchon Hanok Village dates back all the way to the Joseon Dynasty. In The Heirs, Eun Sang meets Kim Tan outside a dreamcatcher shop found in the village, but did you know the actual store sells egg tarts? The village is a popular tourist place for those wanting to experience traditional Korean culture. A walking tour is also available for those teens to find out more. But they said that you need to be quiet while walking along the way there because you may disturb the residents living there.

Eleventh is Shilla Millenium Park, Boasting what might be the most star-studded cast, Hwarang: The Beginning told the story of Hwarang warriors during the Shilla period. Being a period drama, most of the show was filmed at traditional heritage sites. Shila Millenium Park serves as set for Hwarang’s training ground in the show. Shilla Millenium Park is also home to dramas such as Queen Seondeok as well as Boys Over Flowers. The park allows visitors a peek into the life during the Shilla period, complete with architecture unique to the era.

Twelve is Strong Woman Do Bong Soon – Seoul Land, No Korean drama is complete without an adorable theme park date that makes us wish we had an oppa too. If Bong Soon and Min Hyuk’s date in Strong Woman Do Bong Soon seemed like the perfect date, don’t forget to stop by Seoul Land with your significant other! I really wanted to go here. I can see how they enjoyed themselves while walking in the park and I want to experience it too!

Thirteenth is Goblin – Jumunjin Beach. If you have already seen that drama, you would feel the same too! It was a nice scenery and for sure it can relieve stress. Your Korean drama pilgrimage isn’t complete without stopping at one of Goblin’s filming sites. One of the most iconic scenes from the show is when Eun Tak first summons Kim Shin to the beach on her birthday. Since then, fans have been flocking to the breakwater to recreate that moment. Jumunjin Beach is home to more than 5 breakwaters, so make sure you find the right one! if you’re not sure which one it is, look out for the huge TV signboard.

Fourteenth is Wolmido Island, Incheon (Descendants of the Sun). Those scenes where Captain Yoo Si-jin and Sergeant Major Seo Dae-young were playing at a shooting range? Yep, that was here, at Wolmido Island. Travelers can enjoy the vast array of cafes and seafood restaurants along the coast – with great coffee and sea views too boot. There’s also Play Hill, another theme park that’s a must-visit.

Fifteenth is Samcheok Daemyung Resort Sol Beach, Donghae (My Secret Romance). This Santorini-themed location was used to film My Secret Romance, and it’s actually a resort outfitted with Spanish architecture. It features restaurants, Aqua World (an indoor water park), a sauna, and a fusion buffet – perfect for unwinding after a long day of traveling around.

Sixteenth is Petite france. When you look at Petite France, it becomes no surprise why this is a popular filming location for K-Dramas – it’s a French cultural village complete with French-inspired buildings, and has The Little Prince Theme Park too to boot. Make sure to check out the Orgel house, where a 200-year old music box plays on end.

These places are just a glimpse of how the Country South Korea is beautifully made. You can check out in google many other places because there are still a thousand places that you can go to and enjoy. You cannot blame me why I would really love to go to South Korea because you can see how the places are wonderfully made. I also want to taste their food there and make a mukbang video as what I have always seen on youtube where many of the koreans do video mukbangs of many delicious foods. Check out G-Ni’s videos. I'm sure that it can make your mouth watery. We can see a variety of foods and a variety of restaurants where there are so many unexplainable tastes of food she introduced.

As I have researched many articles saying that Koreans also give heart warming welcome to those especially are new to their country.

I will not let things stop me from going to South Korea, it is really the place I would love to go to and spend it with someone who was really special like friends or family. I will work hard so that I can reach my dreams and treat them without minding how much I already spend. Aja! (Fighting). Kamsahamnida (thank you) for reading chinggus (friends) . I hope it made you want to go to South Korea also. Annyeong~ (Bye)

https://www.google.com.ph/amp/s/www.klook.com/blog/k-drama-locations/amp/

@queenlupitajones

[abalonetea]

Heyo! So I'm like suuuuuuuuper lost on like all of your WoW posts lol. Would you mind giving me a basic run down of your characters pretty please?

hey! of course! i’ll be honest, i’m still making and fleshing out a lot of the character, but this is a pretty quick and basic run-down of what I've got so far! thank you for the lovely ask!

this is missing a few of the characters that aren’t super fleshed out yet, and yes, this is my largest cast out of the CHP series!

_-_-_

Wings of War is set during the early 1970′s, in an alternate history that allows for some advanced technology, the inclusion of Intent, and the addition of wings being a natural part of some human’s forms. 

it follows four teams (fluctuating numbers between five and eight members at various points) who have been hired by the Guiding Star Corporation. their job is to “develop advancements in technology, human endurance, and product testing” which, as it turns out, means that they fight to the death in endless matches, brought back to life using what’s known as a Respawn Machine.

the teams (north, south, east, and west) are shipped between ten different bases, scattered across several different countries. this represents the ability to pick different maps in most fighting, pvp, or 1st person shooter games. 

on each teams, there are specific roles that the GSC are looking to have filled. each team has a “building” class, for example, which creates the titles of Builder, Maker, Techie, and Engineer. the “sneak” class consists of Assassin, Spy, Rouge, and Thief. each class can only be filled by someone with a specific set of traits, which results in, essentially, total reliance on GSC.

two teams have wings, and two teams don’t. i’m still working on filling out all the roles and creating all the characters, but here’s a basic run-down of what I have so far!

_-_-_

Adele Adler - the handler, the woman in charge. She runs relay between all four teams, doling out missions, handling issues that arrive on and off base, and acting as go between for the Teams and the Council. she’s supposed to keep her distance between them, and had managed that for all the teams before now, but...the men are growing on her! she has a surprising soft spot for most of them, and finds herself more and more willing to turn blind eyes on their shenanigans.

-

Jeremy - West Team’s “fast class”, this boy is a Speedster through and through. he has a short temper, a severe anger problem, and briefly made a living running drugs out in Boston. his weapon of choice is a chunk of wood with some sharp nails in it, and he can hit harder than you would think. runs his mouth a lot but is the only person on his team with any ability to understand the words take care of yourself.

Joshua - West Team’s Sharpshooter, and originally from New Zealand. lives in a camper just inside of the perimeters of the base. anti-social and with no interest in changing that, he took on the job because there’s a very large bounty on his head that Adele promised to get rid of.

Feliciano - the Rouge of the West team, he tries very hard to make himself look proper and put together but usually fails. had a bad reputation going when he first started, because he was pretty sick and just Not Feeling Socializing, but it’s easy enough to see that he’s a good guy these days. a former bodyguard.

Lucas - the Techie, and originally from Sao Paulo. he loves sugar sweet coffee, and has a prosthetic leg that’s fueled by Intent and a rare mineral. a technical engineer, meaning he uses Intent to make new technological advances. can talk for hours if you hit a subject that he likes.

Deiter - the Doctor of West team. he’s a good man, though he tends to have extremely manic episodes that are not helped by the incredible amount of upper’s he can often be seen taking. lost everything when the city he lived in was blown up during WW2. fiercely protective of his team-mates.

James - known as the General of the team. fought in WW2. suffered a severe head injury that still affects him today. a kind man with a lot of personality, and a love for animals. if you tell him something, he will likely forget it. don’t hold it against him, because he’s already doing that himself.

-

Tony - the Runner and local loudmouth of North team. you cannot pay this boy to be quiet, and he’s both stupid as a bag of bricks and also incredibly intelligent. from New York, where he had a lovely stint robbing the Italian mafia blind with his husband, Rizzo, until they were both shot up and picked up by Adele.

Rizzo - the Demolitions Expert of North team, and actually pretty adorable if you can get past the fact that he’s incredibly crass and has no filter between mind and mouth. Hopelessly in love with his husband, even if no one else realizes they’re married. he will burn water if you let him cook, so maybe best if you don’t.

Werner - the North team’s Medic. he’s absolutely batshit, but has a good heart. was running a black market ring in the country side when Adele found him, though he was originally from Oslo. couldn’t speak anything but German and Norwegian before coming to work for the GSC. has two pet rats.

Francois - served as a spy in WW2, and currently the North team’s Assassin. has a HEART based injury with a lot of the same symptoms as tuberculosis. was picked up by the GSC with an offer of as-of-unheard of medication. sardonic, and prone to cracking jokes that most of his team don’t pick up on.

Loto - the Archer, and a member of North team. from the Louisiana bayous, and great with a cross bow. has an old coonhound that sleeps in bed with him, but who Loto claims to hate. often forgets that he needs to actually go to the kitchen and get food, and that the food he needs is easily available.

 Braeburn - the Mechanic, and the longest running member of any of the active teams. has a prosthetic arm. really fond of sweet tea, and more idea of what’s going on than he’s willing to let on. bound up in so many contracts, it’s literally woven into his Intent.

-

Elias - the OG title, Soldier, and a member of South team. fought in WW2, where he briefly met Francois before being shipped to Poland. was discharged after being severely injured, and lived homeless on the streets for a while with BJ. originally from Canada but ended up in America during his discharge due to an error on his papers. suffers from brain tumors caused by extended exposure to Iradium in the war.

BJ - the Hurricane (class title will change, I just needed a placer, oops) of South team. left an abusive home at fifteen and has been on the streets since. took a contract with GSC to get Elias medical treatment. dyslexic, and often described by his team as “being a lot”. uses a steel pipe for his preferred weapon. loves talking and telling stories.

Olek - the Firepower of the team, literally. can probably punch you hard enough to get a KO, but fights with an Iradium powered flare-gun that does serious damage. from Russia, with a strict I won’t tell you anything about my past policy, and a bizarre fondness for bears. great at giving hugs when you’re down.

Jakob - the Maker of the team. has a highly advanced prosthetic eye. losing the vision in his other eye. the guy who picked up BJ and Elias. has a real morality struggle between the job he does, and his own views on Mercy. probably needs a hug more than he lets on.

-

Scout - the Scout of East team, and yes, he does think that’s funny. grew up the oldest of six kids, with a single mother. started doing deals behind the schoolhouse to bring in some extra cash, and it got out of hand when he got older. has severe ADHD. can and will count cards if you play poker with him. no common sense.

Jane - the Guard of East team. unofficially fought in WW2. a big softy, under all that gruffness. suffering from major hearing loss, and with the habit of virtually never taking off his helmet. a pretty shy guy, and any kindness sent his way will catch him off guard.

Christophe - the Spy of the team, he was drafted into the Korean War, where he served a grueling eight months before being attacked by military trained dog-horses and sent home. a chronic insomniac who never settled back into civilian life, and has an abysmally childish sense of humor.

Ollie - the Arsonist of the team, he was living homeless in Daytona before Seamus found him. has horrible decision making skills and a pretty rough past, and considers the base home near instantly. his self-care skills could use some boosting, and he tries really hard to not mess things up.

Seamus - technically the Gunner of the group, but he would rather just make a lot of bombs and use them instead. missing an eye, and has a lot of self-worth issues and a pretty heavy accent that his speech impediment doesn’t help. a drunk, but having Ollie around’s been proving to be good for him.

 - 

[dc-translator]

[ENG TL] 201709 HIM Interview

Notice: This translation was completed without any permission or endorsement from the copyright holder. I do not hold the copyright to the original article or the photos used here. As such, a license cannot be specified. This translation will be taken down if the copyright holder wishes so.

7 girls who bring sweet dreams, Dreamcatcher

Girls who sing rock have appeared. Refusing to fall into the dichotomy between pure and sexy that has taken over the music scene, the combination of rock and girl group summons a peculiar charm. We met Dreamcatcher, the seven girls who will present sweet dreams in the place of the nightmares they chase out.

Written by Kim Hee-eun  Photography Park Geun-wan

JiU

Kim Minji/1994.5.17/Leader/Sub vocal

"Dreamcatchers have the meaning that they'll give you good dreams. We want to give people a good feeling every time they listen to our music."

Dreamcatcher made its debut early this year with 'Chase Me', choosing a genre rarely seen in girl groups. The basis of their concept is rock. The strong melodic tones, the precise group dance where the seven members move as though they are one person, and the mystic, fantastical atmosphere around them left a clear impression. The recent mini album <Prequel>, which includes the lead track 'Fly High', catches one’s eyes as it is filled with songs that brings the musical quality and popular appeal of their music up a notch. Showing off a beautiful yet dark charm, they attracted much attention domestically as well as overseas as soon as they made their debut. Maybe it is because of their name which means 'girls who will chase away nightmares and give you good dreams', but listening to their music makes one feel like slipping into an eternal sweet dream.

Please introduce yourselves individually.

JiU: I'm Dreamcatcher's leader, JiU. I'm the redhead for our current promotion. (Laugh)

Yoohyeon: I'm the lead vocal Yoohyeon.

Siyeon: I'm the main vocal of Dreamcatcher, Siyeon.

Sua: I'm the main dancer, Sua.

Dami: I'm the rapper within the team, Dami.

Handong: I'm Handong from China. I'm a vocal within the team.

Gahyeon: I'm the sub vocal and the cutie maknae Gahyeon.

How was today's photoshoot? Wasn't it hard?

Sua: I've been really looking forward to the photoshoot. I was actually sad that it was over so quickly. I wanted to show off our cool image more. But it was still so so fun. It was the first photoshoot of this promotion, and I felt that the great synergy was worth the wait. Thanks to the photoshoot being done in two concepts, we had even more fun.

We're curious about the meaning behind the team's name, 'Dreamcatcher'.

JiU: ‘Dreamcatcher’ is originally the name of an accessory made by native Americans. It has a sacred meaning that they'll filter nightmares and give you good dreams if you hang them on windows or doors. We want to give people the feeling of good dreams when they listen to our music. Our team is telling a story that revolves around the 'nightmare'. Three parts of the story have been released so far, with 'Chase Me', 'GOOD NIGHT', and 'Fly High'. It'll probably be easier to understand once you see the music videos.

Sua: To add a little, we are a girl group of a new concept that makes music of the rock genre, so listening to our albums will probably be very exciting.

There probably were many stories behind your debut.

Sua: We first debuted as a 5-member girl group called 'Minx', and there were many twists and turns until we were reborn as Dreamcatcher. It took a long time for the new members, Handong and Gahyeon, to join us, too. When we first practiced with the new members, it was difficult to coordinate with them, but thanks to the members being compliant, it's become a lot better. Beyond everything, I want to praise ourselves for the great teamwork between the seven members.

How does 'Dreamcatcher' of today differ from 'Minx' of the past?

Siyeon: First off, our visible concept has been completely changed. When we were promoting as 'Minx', our concept felt like younger girls next door. Now we're able to display a more mature, unexpected charm. Back then, our concept was cute and tomboyish. You'll notice differences in in every aspect such as the team concept, the atmosphere, and the music.

It sounds like a fresh start and challenge. You are probably very determined.

JiU: We're restarting as a new girl group, so we want to do better, more so than anyone else. We were ambitious in the past, but now even our mindset changed for the better.  We're practicing hard and putting in a lot of effort to get ourselves seen. We can't expect to achieve much at once, but if we keep walking forward step by step, I'm sure we'll see good results. Also, we're glad that more and more people are recognizing our efforts.

What kind of song is your lead track, 'Fly High'?

JiU: Our new track 'Fly High' starts with a beautiful piano melody and leaves a deep impression with powerful guitar sounds. Incorporating Dreamcatcher’s unique story into the lyrics made the song a more dramatic number. The concept may feel less intense than before as it presents two sides, the girl and nightmare. But once you know the whole storyline, you'll understand.

Is there something that you are focusing on the most for this promotion?

Sua: There's a lot of new makeup points, like putting shiny stickers under our eyes.

Siyeon: Personally, I worked hard on the expression. This time, our concept required us to express both the girl and the nightmare, so I had to embody both the purity of the girl and the evil of the nightmare in me, which was difficult.

Dami: I focused the most on the gestures. I'm always studying to do different gestures every stage.

It probably isn’t easy to do oversea promotions along with the domestic ones. How have the fans overseas been responding?

Yoohyeon: We went to a restaurant in France, and it was a place owned by Korean people. We didn't think they would recognize us, and were focused on eating without thinking about our image. Then, our song began to play in the place. We realized 'ah, they recognized us'. We were all surprised. They even requested autographs before we left so we gave it to them. I felt really proud.

JiU: When we visited Japan for promotions, we saw fans singing along to us and even crying. Seeing that made me realize again how love for music is without borders, and made me thankful towards our fans.

Sua: We're going to do a long promotion in Japan this time. Seeing the love they showed us last time, we've prepared a larger promotion. (Laugh)

Let's change the mood. Have you been to military units?

Gahyeon: I've done a show in a military unit when I was in middle school. Back then, I did the show without really knowing anything. Recently, when I went to do a show as a Dreamcatcher member, it was surprising how much they cheered for us. It felt different from back then.

JiU: Because of our dark concept, I thought that men wouldn't like us very much. But they shouted 'Deu! Rim! Kae! Cheo!', cheered, blew whistles and clapped for us. I was really surprised. Someone even prepared a placard, which was surprising. It was touching how passionately they cheered for us.

Is there anyone who has a serviceperson in her family?

Sua: My older brother is serving as a gunnery sergeant in the marines. Maybe it's because I've visited the military to see him before, but visiting military units felt familiar. Having seen how they train, I thought it looked very hard. Then I got to experience it firsthand, and it was very hard. We recently got to experience the training for K2 tanks, you see.

It was your first time on a tank, right? How did it feel?

JiU: It felt so hot and humid in the tank. It made me really appreciate how they protect our country. I want to give them energy through our shows.

???: That's right. After being told we were going to experience training, I was very worried. But thanks to the soldiers who kindly explained it and looked after us, we got back safely. I want to go again if I'm given the chance.

Siyeon: It was a bit hard for me too, but it was fun. If programs like 'Real Man' return and I'm given the chance, I want to participate in them. I'm sure I can do well! (Laugh)

What do you usually do when you get free time?

Yoohyeon: I've gotten really into escape room games recently. I've been going with Gahyeon too. I managed to escape in just 20 minutes. I did well, right? There are places that have 'dreamcatcher' themed rooms as well.

JiU: I generally like playing mafia with the members or games like red light green light.

Sua: When fans give us board games, we play them at least once with all the members.

Gahyeon: We even have beyblades in our dorm. Do you know 'Go shoot'? (Laugh)

With there being 7 members, funny things must happen frequently. Are there moments that stick out in your memory?

Siyeon: We all tend to talk a lot in our sleep. We even have conversations in our sleep sometimes.

JiU: There are times when I realize I've become very used to the members. I can't wake up to the sound of my phone alarm, but I wake up to Siyeon or Dami's voice saying 'Unnie, get up.' It's really interesting. It means that us members are that close to each other, right? Living together, there's a lot of episodes and funny happenings. It's to the point that I can't choose just one.

Going forward, as a team, how do you want to be remembered by fans?

JiU: I want us to be remembered as singers that fans can be proud of, and as the best group to our fans. They often tell us that watching us perform is thrilling. I don't want to lose that. I want to keep showing them performances like that. We want to be singers that can give confidence to our fan's shoulders!

Your goal for the year was to release 3 albums. Now that you've achieved that, do you have other goals?

Sua: Luckily, we've been able to achieve our first goal. While we have many goals,above anything else, I want us to continue on with our musical style while giving people songs of a higher musical quality. I also really want to perform in the year-end award ceremonies this year. I also want to win the Rookie of the year award if we get the chance. Lastly, I'd like all the members to be healthy and happy.

JiU: I'd like to make it into the top 100 in the charts, and I really want us to win first place with the new song. I want us to become the best as singers. Do I have too many goals? They're big goals, but I think we can do them if we work hard.

Lastly, is there a message you’d like to give to servicepersons?

Siyeon: People call our songs 'work songs'. Once you listen to our songs, you can't stop working and have to continue. Please listen to our songs lots. (Laugh)

JiU: Servicepersons, thank you for your service for the country. We'll work hard on our promotions, so I hope you’ll be able cheer yourselves up listening to our songs. Because of our dark concept, we've generally only shown you our charismatic side. Don't be scared, approach us a bit and you'll see our brighter side. Please look us up!

[mash-notes]

Season 2 Episodes, Ranked

Here’s the list! As before, please feel free to dispute and cite your preferences! Something I noted doing this is that there are many “vignettes” shows in this season, all of them excellent. It’s hard to keep track of what happened in which show, but this is a testament to the high comedic density of the season. Out of 24 episodes, there is one that contains cringey moments. The 23 others, even those ranked low, are beautifully done.

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24. Operation Noselift

Stuart Margolin returns to the show, this time as a creep plastic surgeon called in to operate on an enlisted man with a prosthetic nose smaller than Klinger’s. For the second time, he assaults Margaret and it’s played for laughs. Get it together, MASH.

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23. Mail Call

A vignettes show: everyone receives various letters and shipments. The main drama is Pioneer Aviation, the made-up stock that the Swampmen convince Frank to buy. Radar switches his picture out for Hawk’s in a pen-pal letter and Margaret receives some seriously hot shoes.

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22. For Want of a Boot

Based on the success of “The Longjohn Flap” in s1, a show about trading commodities and services in the camp. Hawk promises many things to many people in order to replace his broken boot—resulting in chaos at Frank’s birthday party when the deals all fall through.

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21. Divided We Stand

The season premiere. A psychiatrist (Anthony Holland; NOT Sidney) is sent to observe the MASH and decide if they should be broken up and sent to other units. After a day there, the shrink becomes a degenerate himself.

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20. Henry in Love

Henry’s new girlfriend Nancy Sue (Kathrine Baumann), who is half his age, captivates Henry and irritates everyone else. She ends her visit by tackling Hawkeye in his tent, prompting the lecture: “one of us loves Henry Blake, and I think it’s me!”

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19. As You Were

A slow day turns busy. Hawk and Trap order gorilla suits in the mail and Frank arranges the condiment bottles so they’re perfectly aligned. Later, Frank’s hernia acts up and he’s prepped for surgery. +1 for Blake’s ineffective sex lecture with Figures A and B.

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18. The Chosen People

Henry finds a cow in his office, initiating a stalemate with a group of Korean villagers who settle at the MASH. Meanwhile, Radar pretends to be the father of a Korean woman’s baby. A lot of great quips from the dynamo Captain Sam Pak (Pat Morita), and snide remarks from Frank.

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17. Radar’s Report

Radar describes Hawk’s new intrigue with Erica, and, notably, Trapper’s anger when an enemy soldier attacks the OR and causes him to lose a patient. Notable also for the debut of Allan Arbus as Sidney Freedman (yaaaayyy!), and his landmark consultation with Klinger.

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16. Kim

Trapper adopts a little boy thought to be an orphan, who has won the hearts of the whole company. When the kid walks into a minefield, they must work together to maneuver him out. Sappy, but undeniably cute—and, when the boy’s real mother is found, also a little sad.

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15. L.I.P.

Hawkeye helps a G.I. marry a woman from the village to start their new family. This offends Hawk’s new girlfriend Regina (Corinne Camacho), and she is quickly put in her place. Serious and heartfelt; Regina’s shaming is very satisfying. The prank pulled on the mean lieutenant (Burt Young) to bring the marriage off is funny also.

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14. Officers Only

This episode creates the MASH Officers’ Club, scene of many brawls, heart-to-hearts, and dances in the nine seasons to come. When the surgeons operate on General Mitchell’s son, he gives them the bar—Hawk insists that everyone, not just officers, be welcome there.

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13. Dear Dad… Three

A letter-home show, this one is a favorite for its heavy involvement of Ginger, #1 Nurse We Wish We Saw More In The Series. We also see Henry’s goofy home movie, the first of many, in a sweet device that will recur for other characters.

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12. The Trial of Henry Blake

This vignettes show is held together with Henry’s court-martial—and it doesn’t look good for him until the end. Gurney races, a regiment of wingtips, and the hang-gliding Klinger endear it to us. Also Henry and Radar giggling during the trial, an A+ moment.

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11. Dr. Pierce and Mr. Hyde

Sleep-Deprived Hawkeye, away! His dedication makes him refuse to take a break, until his exhaustion makes him go off the rails even more than usual and question the war. Arguably the first of the “Alan Alda soapbox episodes,” a hallmark of the series, which are Hawk-centric and deeply moral.

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10. For the Good of the Outfit

A brilliant, brave, political show in which Hawk and Trap raise an investigation against the Army for bombing a village. In the end Frank, resentful of the attention they’re getting and bucking for praise, causes the complaint to go through.

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9. The Incubator

Another show about red tape: the doctors can’t get an incubator for the hospital without obscene amounts of bribery. The scene in Henry’s office where they discuss the pizza oven is iconic; Hawk and Trapper in their Class A’s is terrific.

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8. Carry On, Hawkeye

Hawk is the only surgeon available when everyone else at the MASH has the flu… except for Margaret. This episode shows us the first glimmer of friendship between the captain and the major, an association that will grow incrementally and, by the end of the series, become something really beautiful.

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7. A Smattering of Intelligence

In the season finale, two CIA men descend upon the MASH, flashily, ridiculously, and hilariously. Edward Winter brings the laughs as Colonel Flagg, hyper-serious enough to never be taken seriously. Nobody knows what to make of this situation; it perfectly embodies the show’s early approach to madcap comedy.

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6. George

Yes, this was in the same season. A queer soldier is battered and persecuted; Hawkeye and Trapper cleverly thwart Frank’s plan to discharge him. For its thoughtful treatment of homosexuality on TV, this show was decades ahead of its time. I will never stop being in awe of it.

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5. Hot Lips and Empty Arms

Who knew she had emotions, desires, and raging benders like a normal person? Just like that, in a watershed moment, Hot Lips turns into Margaret. Warm, feminist, and extremely funny—thanks to a staggering star performance by Loretta.

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4. Crisis

Why can’t these turkeys bunk together every night? If every episode of MASH featured this amount of cuddling, I would be fine with that. Also, Henry standing wrapped in a blanket, a cigar sticking out of his mouth, is one of my favorite images of all time. ALSO also, Father Mulcahy’s “bag of peanuts” prayer works on every conceivable level.

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3. Deal Me Out

A poker game is broken up—first by Frank’s CID-protocol problem, then by a hostage situation. More Sidney, more Sam Pak, a glimpse of Ed Winter, and a LOT of John Ritter in one of his first acting roles. This show is full of wonderful close-ups around the table as the boys gamble the “conference” away, and is a truly deserving fan fav.

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2.  Five O’Clock Charlie

Action, cosplay, aeronautic stunts, and a shower scene—what doesn’t this one have? It’s kind of the platonic ideal of a “funny” MASH episode, and nobody gets hurt except the Jeep. +1, as if it needed it, for the debut of Henry’s doll.

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1. The Sniper

The bullets landing all over the camp—how did they do that? In this incredible show (which also features Teri Garr and Radar’s ass), a lone gunman terrorizes the MASH, sending them into an unprecedented emergency, until he’s finally shot and has to be treated by Hawk himself. It has competition, but this is undeniably the jewel in season 2’s fancy crown; a gorgeous blend of danger, fun, and the blurred morality of war.

[jeonsolar]

Miraculous Ladybug 2x13

Lets comment this again. So i’m starting a little late in the episode cuz I dont want to fake it, and I just remembered to do it, so lets go:

1:57 Someone hug Chloe!

1:59 Ok, the animation? Fucking awesome so far. Like something about Chloe looks so . . . perfect. This is good animation.

2:06 Chloe’s voice sounds different. Like she finally hit puberty. Also, wtf? Buy a second heart?

2:13 Also, Chloe’s back and in the spotlight, so what this hoe gonna do to akumatize another civilian? Also where was she? Sick? It was like 3 episodes. Betcha Gabriel went to the hospital and healed her with his bear hands. “I need you. There’s less angry people in the world, since you’ve been gone.”

2:17 Prediction: Chloe will steal Marinette’s gift, Marinette will throw a tantrum, no one will believe- everyone saw the gift. . . . or maybe chloe will throw it away.

2:34 I was right. But this bitch does know that everyone saw marinette bring this gift right? What does she expect? Everyone will forget?

2:59 Miss Bustier is Lily Evans.

3:00 How will she get mad?

3:14 . . . Not what I expected. Also, Bitch, if you want to get away with it don’t fucking smirk! This is why I can’t like Chloe. She’s not even a good nemesis. And bad people who smirk when they are caught because they know they will get away with it are the worst things to exist. FIGHT ME ON THIS.

3:21 EVERYONE’S VOICES SOUND LIKE THEY ALL HIT PUBERTY except Max and Adrien.

3:33 Yo, what drugs does she take cuz I want them. I need to be as happy as this psycho.

3:40 .... The entire class became the fandom. We’ve all said those things at one point, and Astruc is now fucking with us by pointing them out on his show.

3:47 I never considered that there are like 12 students in that class. That’s small.

4:04 I love every single time Astruc hints at akumatizing Marinette. Is like ‘haha, never gonna happen, but here’s a tease’. Also, whenever Mari gets angry like that she gets a shadow of her mask on her face. Watch the intro, after Chloe pushes her.

4:14 Predictions(again) Butterfly will get on its way to marinette, happy go lucky teacher will calm her down, butterfly will get confused. Still not sure how Discount Lily Evans gets akumatized.

4:54 Bustier saw the akuma, and desperately try to happy-up marinette.

4:54

Akuma: Here I go-

Marinette: *I’m not in trouble...*

Akuma: fuuuuuuuuuckkkkkk, wheeerrreee dooo I goooo noooww?

5:09

Akuma: I hate my job. Dude, just look for another person.

Hakwmoth: NO! This bitch has evaded me for far too long. Stay put!

Akuma: Ugh, I should have quit when I had the chance.

5:34 I’m so glad we finally get that scene of someone aware of those butterflies and freaking out about it. But sad that Discount Lily Evans doesn’t understand that by touching them you get akumatized.

5:52 YO! this show is getting serious with it’s story! I love this! An actual civilian fighting back! Finally! Dept! after the last childish episode this one is soooooo pleasing!

6:17 So my theory on my fanfic is becoming true. Hawkmoth can see into their mind and sweet talk just about anyone to do his biddings, no matter how nice you are. I feel smart.

6:25 From Marinette/Ladybug’s point of view, that had to be hard to watch. I was not prepared for feelings in this episode.

6:44 One swipe both lips? Damn! That lipstick IS magic!

7:27

Zombizou: And feel the love!

Chloe: Ew.

That’s good comedy right there. Because Chloe is all of us here in tumblr.

7:49 Thank God for the suit, because otherwise Marinette would have a broken neck, or a really bruised back and be unable to walk.

8:13 This got gay really quick.... can’t wait for it to get gayer.

8:27 I swear I read a fanfiction just like this. It ended with Ladybug and Chat Noir fucking.... Now I’m going to watch the pg version of it. Ugh. Or maybe this one will end with an orgy....

8:39 No Adrien, you can’t look back like you just lost a soldier in battle! They are just hugging and kissing! This is the sweetest and mellowest episode yet! You’ve been jokier and sillier through worse akumas!

9:38 Ok, it was bad definition. . . but I swear I saw Adrien in the kiss spell running to Ladybug.

9:53 They are saying ‘Kisses Kissu’ ... isn’t Kissu how Japanese/Korean people saying Kiss?

10:08 I’ve been waiting for this moment for too long. This is quickly becoming my most favorite episode.

10:30 I know why he did it, but what if he was also hoping to sneak one to Ladybug? Hahaha, funny Adrien.

10:50 Plagg and I share a brain.

11:14 .... So I CAN make the joke about french kissing! Thank you Astruc for dropping the steryotypes first!

11:51 this is getting close to becoming my fanfiction... I WROTE IT FIRST! (kinda, this episode was written a while ago)

12:03 . . . Bitch WANTS to get thrown to the hordes. Why else would she say shit like that.

12:18 Even Marinette sounds like she hit puberty. Can’t wait for Adrien to hit it too.

13:23 Don’t lie. You weren’t even trying to catch her with your arms spread like that.

13:47 ok no. Fuck this, no. Chloe is a brick and these fuckers are letting themselves drown with her. Rule number one of being a hero: The Needs of Many Overpower The Needs of One. Drop Chloe.

14:04 Woah . . .. Adrien’s voice just dropped.

14:28 Nevermind.

14:40 . . . Maze runner? Walking dead? iZOmbie? Every zombie movie cliche ever? ROSE? Why is it some get turned immediatly and Ladybug had a conversation with Kim before he turned?

15:04 What should happen: Alya and Nino, powercouple ftw, grab Chloe, look at Ladybug and Chat Noir straight in the eyes, and just throw her towards Rose. What will happen: bitch will probably be the only one besides Ladybug to not get turned cuz Chat tends to fall for these a lot.

15:52 Oh the romance! Yes! More Nilya! Make it like Titanic:

Nino: I’ll never let go Alya, I’ll never let go!

Alya: For the love of god Nino, just go, I ain’t dying.

Nino: *whispers really close to her face* I’ll never let go!

16:08 . . . These are just kisses right? Why they acting like they gonna die if they stay like zombies for more than an hour? It aint fatal!

16:14 THROW HER OUT!

16:19 I’m so glad Nilya is here, cause waiting for Ladynoir or Adrienette is killing me and Nilya is my life support.

16:24

Nino: Lets make out babe!

Alya: Kissu!

Nino: YES!

16:49 Predictable: Chat Noir gets taken. Unpredictable: Ladybug acting like her boyfriend was taken. just partners huh?

16:55

Ladybug: Chat! I’ll save you!

Chat: I’ll just stay here Ladybug, if we are gonna end up kissing, I’d rather it be after you save us.

Ladybug: ... This . .. this isn’t the right time to flirt Chat. Why do you always do this?

17:23 ... Dark Owl had her earring almost off and this is the closest you’ve gotten, Hawkmoth? How do YOU measure it?

17:40 His voice dropped again. the actor should stop highpithing his voice and let Adrien hit puberty too. #LetAdrienHitPuberty2k18

17:43 WHAT WAS SHE EXPECTING?

17:56 This revelation will last till the end of the battle then she’ll be a bitch again. Change my mind.

17:59 I hope they keep making more animations of Chat with weird faces like that. We need them for the memes.

18:01 Ok, fine. 5 points to Chloe. But she’s on -6,458,827,247 so she’s got a long way to go.

18:04 -6,458,827,227

18:36 LIPSTICKS ARE EXPENSIVE LADYBUG!

18:58 So by these standards Nino and Alya should be getting it on downstairs, right?

19:24 They didn’t show us Nilya... they are Getting. It. On. Also, #TellUsWhatHappenedToEmilieAgreste2k18

19:53 Hasn’t said anything but “No.” yet, but .... -6,458,827,200

20:17 -6,458,826,000

20:24 -6,458,826,200

20:37 that number is long to write, just add a -500 more for me being right that she would revert to Bitch Chloe when this was over.

21:29 ... What happened between Nino and Alya?

--

OK, call me Cinema Sins cause that’s basically what I’m doing. Overall, I love this episode. It had the beauty of a fanfiction. Thomas Astruc and his team are reading fanfics #confirmed. But yeah, they had to soften Chloe at one point to turn her into Queen Bee. And Marinette will most likely do it, so she had to see it. There.

#Chloeisabrickmadeofclayandisfinallydisolvinginwater.

[asianhappinesss]

Crash Landing on You (2019)

Summary

After getting into a paragliding accident, South Korean heiress Yoon Se Ri crash lands in North Korea. There, she meets North Korean army officer Ri Jung Hyuk, who agrees to help her return to South Korea. Despite the tension between their countries, the two of them start falling for one another.

Review

Good Reasons For Watching

Crash Landing On You is more than just romance to me which is a good reason to give it a high rating. Some aspects of North Korean life is projected in the drama which is not only an eye-opener but also gives it a unique background to the story. No doubt, the plot is all pure fantasy but the North Korean angle adds an interesting layer to the romance that follows.

Moreover, the drama manages to evoke intense feelings in viewers as the cross-border love becomes stronger but separation between the 2 lovers is inevitable. You will cry buckets in some scenes especially the separation in the last episode. So, getting tissues ready is highly recommended before you start watching. But apart from the romance, you will also be able to feel the care and camaraderie among friends. There are comical moments to lighten the mood too after more serious scenes that weigh down your feelings. In short, the drama has a little bit of everything that gel together very nicely into a great production.

Chemistry Between The Leads

The chemistry between Hyun Bin and Son Ye Jin simply sizzles in Crash Landing On You. They certainly played their roles well to convince us that they are falling deeply in love deeply with each other. Perhaps the events in the story help it along as they need to sacrifice much to protect one another. But their eyes, facial expressions, and body language are often able to convey their deepest feelings to make us feel moved. The tears seem real as we cry along with them. I guess Son Ye Jin does live up to her Melodrama Queen tag each time.

I think the supporting cast also did a great job especially the soldiers and village women. Their portrayals of the unique personalities of their respective characters give the drama much more depth. They are interesting to watch rather than just mere props to support the main leads. The guest appearance by Ha Seok Jin as Jeung Hyuk’s elder brother is also a nice surprise. I first noticed him in Something About 1 Percent and that is a fun watch as well.

My Verdict

Crash Landing On You is definitely worth watching although the starting could be a little slow. It takes about 3 to 4 episodes for me to warm up to the story before I was really into it. But once you get on the ride, you will be rooting for the couple. The idea of lovers being forced apart is always going to hurt and yet, there is also always hope. Set against the political realities of North and South Korea, the story becomes even more melodramatic and the feelings more intense. Hence, they don’t even need steamy kisses to sell this romance drama. Well, they do have kisses but they tend to be sweet and far more innocent than what you would see in Her Private Life or What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim.

For this Crash Landing On You review, I would give it a 8.5/10 rating. I deducted some points for the slow start and the rushed ending. Watch it for the North Korean element, great chemistry of the main leads, and intense emotions it successfully evokes. And of course, the good-looking Hyun Bin and beautiful Son Ye Jin!

[jumpingpools]

KDramas, A review

Hi friends, I watch a lot of kdramas so I thought i would review them if anyone was interested in watching some. (These are my opinions plz don’t destroy me)

She Was Pretty

Main girl used to be pretty and knew a fat boi when they were younger. They meet up later in life when she is ugly and he’s hot, so she has her hot bff pretend to be her to meet him. Things get complicated. Love triangles everywhere.

Took like 9 fucking episodes to get main girl to not act like an idiot. Plot line and main girl was kinda annoying. Couldn’t finish it. Decent but not my fave.

Chicago Typewriter

The plot alternates between modern day and the 1930s when Korea was colonized by Japan. It follows a group of liberation fighters in the 1930s, and in modern time a famous/grouchy writer, his number one fan and a hot ghost from the past. The modern day group is the reincarnation of the freedom fighter group. Travel through time with them as they discover their past together and how they died.

WOW this one was amazing. Has a lot of literary references, especially with Stephen King. Discusses the nuances of what it means to be a writer. Discusses plagiarism, censorship, mental health and freedom. Has a love triangle, but the love plot isn’t exactly the whole plot of the story. Main girl is kind of a call back to the other characters of the right thing to do and represents many things throughout the show. A must watch.

Weightlifting Fairy

YAS QUEEN! A girl struggles with society’s ideals of what makes a woman beautiful, her career as a weightlifter, and a one-sided love affair. REALLY REALLY cute romance. A very healthy romantic relationship. A must watch. SO CUTE. SO GOOD. WATCH IT.

The Man in our House

Vastly underrated. Main gurl comes home after her mother dies to find a dude younger than her saying he was married to her mom and owns the house/property. She must figure out his intentions. Cute story about redemption, grief, supporting loved ones and romance. Has action moments, romance and legal elements.

Kill Me, Heal Me

A man struggling with dissociative identity disorder (multiple personality disorder) tries to keep his mental health struggles a secret and meets a cute/smart Lady who happens to be a psychiatrist and has her help him. The history between these characters and personalities are more complex than any of them can imagine.

OMG this drama gave me so many feels. It made me laugh out loud and cry for days. It talks about mental health in a beautiful and intelligent way. All the little things in this drama matter and come back later on. Mystery, mental health, family, and love are the major themes of this one. A MUST WATCH.

Fight My Way

A group of four friends slowly realize that they haven’t fought hard enough to realize their dreams, and work towards their life goals even though they are older now. Inspirational and cute. Some moments are a little annoying but a solid ok drama.

You’re All Surrounded

Follows a group of detectives solving an old case that has to do with one of the detective’s dark childhood (mom got murdered in front of him). Great. Unpredictable in the best way. Keeps you on your toes. Cute romance. (The main girl is homeless???) but it’s chill. Would watch again. A solid drama. Crime thriller, romance, melodrama.

Hyde Jekyll, Me

Another dissociative identity disorder one. Kill me heal me is better. A rich Boi was traumatized as a kid and has DID. A cute GURL falls in love with one of his personalities. Mystery, romance and such. I’d give it a 5 out of 10. I did cry.

Bromance

(Taiwanese) Dear baby Jesus this one was so cheesy and awful but I LOVE IT. Gender bender. Gurl has to pretend to be a boi and falls in love with her friend-bro (a rich BOI). But rich Boi isn’t a jerk in this one (surprising right? His fam is nice too). The side character plot story is REALLY REALLY good. Like they should have been their own show. Bff of rich boi falls in love with a girl with cancer in remission, you can see where this is going… Gender bender, cute, so cheesy that you’ll laugh, gets you with the feels, romance.

Absolute Boyfriend

(Taiwanese) HOLY HELL THIS ONE IS BAD. Like so bad. Gurl makes a robot boyfriend as a joke but ends up actually receiving the robot boyfriend. Neighbor boi is in love with her. She has to hide the fact that robot boyfriend is a robot. It’s bad fam. I still cried at the end though. If you’re looking for a gawd awful drama to watch to make you laugh at how bad it is, watch this one… but also I did cry…

Coffee Prince

Oh man. Genderbender. Poor Gurl pretends to be a boi to get jobs that pay better (I feel you gurl), ends up working with a rich BOI in an all-male coffee shop. Rich BOI falls in love with male her and has a panic attack. Lots of love triangles. The beginning is slow, but worth it to get to the good stuff. Cheesy but really enjoyed this one. SOBBED LIKE A BABY at one point. Worth it watching.

(did i mention the main boi is in goblin??)

Secret Garden

Jerky rich Boi and stunt woman Gurl switch bodies. Gurl is a badass bitch I love her. Takes a while to get to the main plot. Love triangles (what drama doesn’t have one). A solid drama. Cute.

Descendants of the Sun

OMG SO SO SO GOOD. My absolute favorite!!! Doctor Lady and Special operations military Boi fall in love. Often separated b/c of their jobs. Both end up in a (fictional) war-torn place called Erk. Very seriously discusses what it means to be/the morality of a soldier and a doctor. CRIED SO HARD OMG. This drama will change your life. Really well made, writing was amazing. OST is amazing! One of those dramas where the little things come back later on. Everything has purpose and meaning. The two main characters got married in real life!!! 10/10. SO good.

(the main boi legit broke his arm during filming)

Boys over Flowers

Why has everyone seen this one? This is a trash can disguised as a drama. Cheesy, stupid plots, poor communication between the characters that makes you want to scream at them. Yet I couldn’t stop watching it??

Four rich BOIs are the rich SKOOL hot bullies. Poor Gurl comes and ~changes everything~. Leader of the Bois is a jerk-face and of course they fall in love. Love triangles of course. A trash can. An actual trash can. Strangely really long. You must have will power to make it to the end. Watch it, it is a rite of passage.

To the Beautiful You

Korean Hana Kimi for those familiar with the books. Doesn’t follow the books super well but still really good. (So much better than the mess that was the Japanese and Taiwanese versions). It’s really cute and lovely just like the books. Min Ho from Shinee is Sano. He’s a cutie.

Gurl pretends to be a boi and goes to an all bois (college I think? might be high school) to meet her high jumping idol. They end up being roommates and then good friends (and maybe more????). Love triangles. The real OG genderbender. Gay panics. Gay acceptance. An aloof doctor. A cute dog. One of my faves. Plz watch.

You’re Beautiful

Both the Taiwanese and the Korean versions are literally the same scene for scene line for line so just pick one. Gender bender, love triangles. A nun (yes a fucking NUN) Gurl has to pretend to be her twin brother in a band with 3 bois. Can she keep her secret? Will she fall in love with the jerk leader boi and not the other nice boi? Watch to find out. Not the best. Cheesy. Watch if you have nothing else to do or want to laugh at something. Entertaining though.

Moon River

I had such high hopes for this one but it was more of a trash can than Boys over Flowers. Basically the same plot as Boys over Flowers. SO SO BAD. A few redeeming scenes. Not even bad in the way that it’s funny to watch, just bad. Don’t waste your time. I couldn’t even finish this one. 3/10 don’t watch.

Crossing Hero

(Taiwanese) I had a Jiro Wang phase and he directed this one. It’s quirky and cheesy and terrible but I love it. Main boi travels through time to modern day. The two side heroes follow after him into modern day and don’t know how to cope with modern day. The squad gets involved with a reporter and a detective and solve a ~huge~ crime plot. Jiro, our main BOI, just stops showing up in his own drama like halfway through it?? and the side characters become the main characters, which is weird but fine b/c they’re cool.

Horrendously cheesy. Weird. But still good, especially once Jiro stops showing up. Wouldn’t put it anywhere near the top of the To Watch List though. Watch it if you want something totally out of the ordinary.

Oh my Ghostess!

A young virgin ghost possess the body of an extremely shy chef girl to try to bang the head chef and go to Nirvana. The main Gurl getting possessed can actually see ghosts so things get complicated. What happens when main Gurl and main ghost gurl both get the feels for head chef? Will ghost gurl figure out how she died?

Has mystery/crime thriller, spoopy/supernatural, sweet, romance, family, grief and friendship element/themes. Thought this one would be bad but was really surprised at how good it was. Solid drama.

Bring it on Ghost! / Let’s Fight Ghost!

A friend-less boi can see ghosts and fights off ghosts for people for money. Meets a cute high schooler ghost that ends up helping him. Gains two weird ghost obsessed friends (against his will). Will the budding romance between a living boi and a cute ghost gurl ever work out?

Strong Woman Do Bong Soon

YAS QUEEN! A gurl born with super strength is wary of losing her powers and hides them. A serial kidnapper/killer with a creepy baby mask. Crime and mystery drama. A really cute drama. A sweet romance, funny mixed with some sad, decently feministic drama. Great. Watch it.

Suspicious Partner

A lawyer gurl is framed for murdering her ex. A cute prosecutor is caught between doing what is right and trying to not get fired. An unlikely alliance/romance between two people who understand how it feels to be cheated on. Discussion about when the justice system fails, at what point and extent should you take matters into your own hands. Crime thriller, mystery, revenge, law and justice, heartbreak, romance and forgiveness.This one is full of twists and turns. Really good one! Watch it!

ok fam, that’s all of my reviews! Thanks for reading!!!

[jahe]

My Thought on Goblin (Drama).

tI've been diligently watching Goblin since the very start until the end. I was so eager to watch because it is Gongyoo's drama after a while, and mythology fantasy precisely; but I also not that excited because it is Kim Eunsook drama, I don't know why (LOL). I just... I don't know, maybe I am quite buying people opinion toward her drama, like everyone knows how she wrote her dramas, right?

Anyway, I still decided to watch for the sake of the casts, especially because of Gongyoo and Dongwook. Yeah. Hehe.

Now that Goblin has ended, I can say... well, the drama is fun and sweet but also confusing and absurd. I don't know how to detailed explain what makes it is bad to my taste, I only feel that KES build her fantasy world with little effort? I know I am not fantasy story expert nor I know Korean folklore/myth nor I am not write story that well, but as fantasy/mythology lover and as a viewer I am a little disturbed. I have right to feel that, like you can say a food is bad when you are not a chef your own.

I know a writer can build their fantasy world as what they like it, modify the old tales or even make a new one, but as for me, I failed to understand her Goblin's world. I just feel something off with her characters' characterization, a little bit (or maybe completely) Mary-Sue-ish, there was no deep connection between each other creatures.

Like Kim Shin is immortal, rich (can produce his own goldbar), can kill and bring life, can control the weather (or can't, depens on his mood), can see the future, a guardian; like the world is in his hand already except death. He can overpowered the god himself at this rate. Not mention before Shin changed into powerful Goblin, he was a warrior that always win at the battlefield; a loyal subject but killed nevertheless by a less powerful King's mandate. Well, I know KES also shown us how stubborn, temperamental and also a little stupid he is despite living hundred years (so it is not completely Gary-Stu), but still.

Also Grim Reaper. I just thought he only had one job: escorting the dead to afterlife, but nope. He able to erase memory, able to know someone's past life with direct skin touch and bring it back with one kiss. ONE KISS. Oh gosh, that's so weird, I mean for a GRIM REAPER, a kiss???? Just for the sake of romanticizing Reaper and Sunny?

And so much of absurdities in Goblin that I can't tell because I am not even fluent in English and I AM THAT SO MUCH CONFUSE (ALSO UPSET).

So I tried to make my own rendition, or in the other hand fixing KES fantasy world to satisfy myself. You can continue reading or not, you can agree or disagree. Everyone has their taste right? So here is mine.

When Goblin ended, I tried to search about Korean folklore about goblin and also to cross-check my knowledge about korean grim-reaper and I found this. (http://koreanhistoricaldramas.com/korean-folklore-goblins-and-other-beings/), it said:

Goblin and Dokkaebi are different creatures. Goblin in Europe myth is a creature while Dokkaebi is a spirit that inhabitate old tools (inanimate object) like broom and stuffs, not human but I assume when they are in that object I guess they turned into some kind of creature since there are many illustration of dokkaebi appeared like a Kappa.

Grim reaper doesn't have other powers beside being invisible to normal human eyes and only escort the dead to afterlife.

First thing first, in KES story, what I get is Kim Shin punished as an immortal because he didn’t listen to King’s word and instead killed himself in process. What missed from KES story is Sun is not even want to protect the King anymore, she said to Shin to go to the King and don’t mind her because it is her destiny. But in the later episode Shin claimed his sister protect the Fool that she died. What.

As I want to understand Shin punished being immortal because he confronted the King (because basically King is another form of God), it doesn’t make sense to me. The King is fooled by the eunuch, but it is also wrong to kill someone who is fool. He needs to kill the evil. So, I make this version of Kim Shin (and the sword) instead.

The sword that King gave to Kim Shin is an old sword that handed down to the General from generation to generation, it witnessed the fall and rise of Generals' in battlefield. It killed so much people the blade is glistened. The sword is sacred that it formed a quite complicated spirit: it is evil but also divine at same time. A man/woman that wield it will possessed by an evil or divine spirit depends on their character. Because Kim Shin is a loyal subject that wanted to protect the King and his people thus how the sword helped him won the wars.

King felt threatened. With some instigation of the evil eunuch he killed Shin's soldiers and family, including his beloved Queen that was Shin's little sister. Shin killed by King's hand with the sword that King gave to him. Actually Shin wanted to kill the eunuch as what his sister said to protect the King, but he failed. He dead instead.

But he didn't. Shin become immortal instead, initially he was so angry he wanted a revenge. But the spirit in that sacred sword that stabbed him conflicted with his own spirit (as a ghost), it melted into one thus make him back to life but immortal. That was the start of his own immortal journey.

So it is not about punishing Shin, it just the side effect of wanting to do revenge. GOF wants Shin to give up also, that’s how he could avoid the death of everyone, the death of himself, and to avoid the evil spirit of the sword. Off course GOF can’t tell him before hand, and that’s how fate is work, right? We don’t know any of it. Fate is a big mystery.

Like what I stated above actually I don’t really like how Goblin has that so many power but after a while thinking while typing I guess that’s how the consolation become. However, in my own rendition I would like the Goblin can’t produce their own gold bar (he is not marvel mutant, seriously) but instead, like most goblin/dokkaebi did, he steal and dig all those golds and gems. Steal from the bad guys off course.

I don’t have any objection with that creation of Goblin’s Bride aka Euntak and her purpose of life to be the one to make Kim Shin back to mortal and die. The only problem we got from the drama is Shin and Euntak’s story as an immortal being and the one who can make him die not progressed intensely. Sugarcoated with the romantic aspect thus the actual plot is missing. They feel like doing push and pull.

And also the appearance of devil ghost, Park Joonghun. It kinda abrupt and absurd. After all those hundred years, not even once goblin and eunuch met. If only they met back long before and confronted each other, Shin will know how to end Park Joonghun, because the original purpose Shin use the sword for the last time was to kill him, to protect the King. Then it will enlightened him about why he is immortal and this will change how he looks upon his bride. To take the sword to end eunuch life, as what he wanted, his sister wanted and the King wanted even he didn’t want to admit that.

If it is goes with my version like what I said in the previous paragraph, Shin won’t have power to not fall in love with his bride thus makes him torn in between to die and fulfill longtime grudge or keep himself immortal and loving Euntak until she died. But then she had to make him die in order to live, like what originally should be. (LOL WHO AM I REALLY, afterall KES is the author).

I don’t mind with the romance, it is good. The only irking thing happened is Euntak’s behaviour and how KES always make her female lead be. But what to do with a high-schooler age, where she is an orphan, a goblin’s bride that can see ghosts. She is total weirdo. And get to meet a rich mythical creature maybe excite her, moreover her groom to be. But KES not even want to make her lead character has nice character development. Euntak should’ve accept the fact, that she had to help the groom die in order to kill eunuch, or she had to die for nothing. The goblin and his bride need to do it together. They can do romance in between searching for Park Joonghun anyway, afterall devil ghost is not something who roam the world leisurely. He could be anyone dark side, so working with Grim Reaper could be fitting. Then Goblin can die; Euntak can move on and accept her fate to die at her 29th, then they reunite in afterlife. They could be reincarnate and fated to each other again as a human, a normal human. Well.

Anyway. Talking about Grim Reaper, I have said about not buying the kissing power because KES simply said a kiss from grim reaper can recalled memories. PLEASE EXPLAIN!!! Because such concept is not fitting with reaper’s image. Let’s be real, there is no happy moment in their jobs. I don’t mind the other power like erasing memories, knowing someone past life by touch. It is only that kiss is disturbed me. So I made my own reasoning why Reaper can recalled Sunny’s memories with a kiss.

First of all, reaper won’t touch humans because they can see their past life and it could be annoying or even create problem in their ‘office’; if touch can make them see their past life so intense skinship, at this case, like a kiss, a hug or make out session (lol) can trigger reaper’s power to bring out all those memories to the person they do intense skinship with.

But it still doesn’t make sense. Reaper can just touch and they can see everything no need to kiss, if the other reasoning he wanted to confirm with the memories form that person point of view, that’s it. But (again) what the purpose of kissing if he is gonna erase it again, that’s create another problem. Duh.

ANOTHER THING! Reincarnation. I still found weird about not drinking your tea to retain past life memory in the next life, because isn’t it annoying when you born as new person, growing up and suddenly you remember your past life miseries like you won’t have problems with your new life. Seriously. The tea shop could be still there as a tea shop, let just say it is a tea of afterlife, before the God of Death decided whether you will be go upstairs or downstairs? But that’s okay, though. It is not as disturbing as Reaper Kiss, even in the last episode there is mistake when Wangyeo and Sunny didn’t even drink their tea and they fucking forget who they are in their next life. LOL.

I think I should stop here because I am talking so much nonsense. Well!!!! Goblin is still a good drama, I admit. If it is not good people won’t watch, lol. It just, don’t watch it seriously, just enjoy it and don’t think anything! That’s it.

It was a good ride so far and I will really really really miss the casts, especially that three idiots Shin, Yeo, Deokhwa. And also I want Gongyoo and Goeun in another project. Euntak didn’t do justice, they need another experiment to see if they have that chemistry.

So.

Thanks for reading. If you decided to read until the end, I bet no one reading this gibberish thought. Please forgive my limited English.

Bye.

[recentanimenews]

FEATURE: Cooking With Anime - Sukiyaki from "Princess Jellyfish"

Princess Jellyfish is an adorable show that has long been a favorite of mine. I've been assured the manga is also excellent, but no matter how you enjoy it, the story is really quite unique and fun! Everyone I know who has seen it loves it- it's especially great to watch with friends. The opening and closing are catchy, and overall it's a pretty feel-good show. 

  In episode two, Kuranosuke invites *SPOILERSSSSSSSS* himself over for dinner, startling all of Tsukimi's housemates and making them flee for the hills. He interupts their weekly hot pot dinner, and tries to take over, inciting ire amongst the household. The kind of hot pot they are eating is Sukiyaki, a delicious salty-sweet broth used to cook meat and vegetables all together until food nirvana has been achieved. 

    This is a pretty awkward moment in the show, but nonetheless I wanted to give it a go. I've been wanting to do hot pot recipes for awhile, and now the season for it is finally upon us! I was originally going to do tanuki hot pot from Eccentric Family, and that's still on the list, but having never made hot pot before I wanted to start with a relatively easy type of hot pot. I was really startled at how easy this was! I thought it would be really labor intensive, but as long as you can chop up some veggies and put together a simple sauce, this is actually a piece of cake.

  Plus, it's super impressive to share with friends, and a fun interactive meal. I'm used to paying upwards of $20 for all-you-can-eat meals like this, and I was startled and amazed to find that all the ingredients came to ~$50 and more than fed 5 people. We were so full by the end of this, and I still have leftover meat in the freezer. 

  All in all, this is a great meal to share with friends, especially to celebrate the new year and the end of 2016, the year from a place beyond hell. Did anyone else have a wild year? Would love to hear the craziest thing that happened to you in 2016. For me, it was probably almost getting shot at by some North Korean soldiers. 

  Check out the video below for a visual on instructions. Ingredients are listed just below. 

      Ingredients

  Sauce:

1 cup sake

1 cup mirin

1 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup sugar

Veggies/ Meat:

Baby Bok Choy (~3 bunches)

Napa Cabbage (~10 leaves)

Negi/ Japanese green onion (~3 onions)

Shiitake mushrooms (1 package)

Enoki mushrooms (1 big bunch)

Tofu (1 package)

Shirataki noodles (1 bag)

~200 grams of meat/ person, either pork or beef. It needs to be thinly sliced hot pot meat. This kind of meat is usually available at Asian supermarkets. 

Brown sugar

Oil

Amount of veggies will vary based on how many you have coming over- I invited four friends and just got whatever the smallest packages of these veggies were available, and we had PLENTY to eat. 

  You will also need steamed rice to eat with this! This is traditionally eaten with everyone gathered around a table that has a portable burner with a pan set up on it. There is a traditional cast iron pan you can use- I just used a pan I had on hand with an electric burner. 

  To make: 

1. Pour sauce ingredients into a pan, and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and set aside to be used when you cook.

2. Prepare veggies by cutting off ends, discarding wilted leaves, and cutting into bite sized pieces. 

3. Drain and rinse shirataki noodles.

4. Set meat on a plate to have ready to go.

5. Cook! First cook meat, sprinkling brown sugar over the top to caramelize it. Pour over a bit of sauce. When cooked, push to one side of the pan and add in veggies and more sauce. Let everything stew until veggies are tender. Then, dig in! 

    I hope you enjoyed this post! Check in next week for another recipe. To check out more anime food recipes, visit my blog for more anime and manga themed food. If you have any questions or comments, leave them below! I recently got a twitter, so you can follow me at @yumpenguinsnack if you would like, and DEFINITELY feel free to send me food requests! My tumblr is yumpenguinsnacks.tumblr.com. Find me on Youtube for more video tutorials! Enjoy the food, and if you decide to recreate this dish, show me pics! :D

In case you missed it, check out our last dish: Christmas Cake from Every Anime Ever. What other famous anime dishes would you like to see Emily make on COOKING WITH ANIME?

By: news+feed@crunchyroll.com