Ji Woo is a fascinating character study. I know a lot of fans were frustrated and angry with his behavior but I completely understand it. Outside of his chef skills, he has low self esteem and internalized anxiety. He has spent much of his life alone and only depending on himself. Having feelings for someone else that greatly affects his mood is scary (increased anxiety). His respondent behavior is avoidance. When his emotions or anxiousness threaten to overwhelm him then he runs. Truly, he cannot run after Seo Joon because he does not have the confidence.
When JW admitted that he wasn't strong enough, to continue pursuing SJ, if he stayed away, was a huge first step in JW opening up about his insecurities to SJ. SJ has been trying to find out what he did "wrong" to make JW leave. He was never in the "wrong". JW admitted that to him, the night he let go, and kissed him/spent the night with SJ after they were looking for Yoo Han. JW was just not used to wanting someone so much, that made him feel so much, that made him need SJ so much, that all of those feelings for SJ terrified him. I think, it's a terrifying feeling of loving/needing/desiring someone so much, when you think that you don't deserve that person. I also think, that some viewers really don't like seeing characters displaying those fears/behaviors.
This series had me so good. I thought season 1 was great, and then came this season. I get the fans complaints of dissatisfaction with Jiwoo’s character, but from a melancholic’s (me) point of view, I find it normal - if the whole story was written in his perspective; I tend to dwell a lot in my past, in fact, I live in my own head, before I’d come up to actually discuss my problems even with the closest person to me, I’ve probably had a communion with my soul, spirit and body in my head for months. I guess what I’m trying to say is, from his perspective, he’d been doing all the thing his partner is doing to show he loves him and wants to fight for them in his head - he needed to make peace with his past., he needed to be done with that. It took a certain level of withdrawal from his partner to get him to actually open up. Yes, it was too easy, the way he was accepted back. But, in most relationships, someone always loves more. That being said, I’d rate it a 9 too. Blueming and Semantic Error are just there ⬆️
"The times Seo Joon tries to woo Ji Woo in the village..." I actually like those scenes because he only wooed Ji Soo when they were alone. The rest of the time he was just there, in Ji Woo's face, not saying a word to anyone about their actual relatonship. There was no active wooing, for example, in the clip shown (at the village party). Just the implicit message, "I'm not going anywhere, even if you ignore me." Also, I liked how Seo Joon insinuated himself into that village more deeply in a few visits than Ji Woo had in his year there.
That scene with SJ singing (badly!! 😍) "the real one is here" made me laugh out loud, at his actions, because he was determined to let JW's ex realize that he was in it, to win back his heart. I'm glad that JW and his ex, were able to get the closure they both needed, to move on, say sorry for their past relationship.
I think SJ felt that he had to be welcomed by the villagers, because his goal was to get JW back. Now, there's an entire community that knows how close those two are, all the things that SJ's status can help with the financially vitality of the village/villagers, so that the village will be their home away from Seoul.
I have putting this series off because I had heard it was a bit heavy and I was not sure I was in the mood for that type of series. I will add it to the ever growing list of things to watch!
Deborah is right, but I'd frame it differently. I think it is heavy even if you binge it, but since the binger can get through 5 hours of heavy material in 2 days, the angst doesn't burden you the same way as if you had seven days to think about each episode for 10 weeks. So easier to take with a binge. Also, you are forewarned*, so you will be braced for it. It's not THAT heavy...but if one didn't know it was coming, if one assumed light and fluffy was ahead. Well, ever go to the beach, wade a little way into the ocean, then turn your back on the waves?
I watched as the episodes aired for season two on a weekly basis. It was "heavy", but to me, the "heaviness" made sense for those characters, at that particular point in their storyline. It just made sense. I compare the differing viewpoints on what was shown in "To My Star 2", to what happened to Oh Aew and Teh in "I Promised You The Moon".
@@VixenByNight72 "differing reactions" = one faction hating the series because "how dare they break up this couple I love and want to see happy" versus one faction recognizing those break ups as rooted in real life Things that Might Happen, then appreciating how the series depicts the emotional fallout of same? Hmm. The complexity needed to express those two positions has me pondering....
I also gave a 9. And I also think it was better than the original. It's difficult to imagine any series that got a 9 missing my Top Ten. I am very stingy with scores 8.5 and higher. Perspective on the score: I've rated 38 productions in 2022, and only 4 got 9. None, so far, have scored higher. (Heartstopper would if it were on MDL.) In 2021, I rated 83 productions and only 9 got 9 or 9.5. So unless the year ends with sustained brilliance, TMS2 will be tough to beat.
same here, for me 7-8 rating is okay.. I do give it to a lot... however when it comes to the 8-5-9 bracket, I am stingy... and 9.5 to 10.. well very difficult... i think i'd give one to *The Untamed* and the K drama Move to Heaven... may be ITSAY too
You are spot on with my thoughts exactly! ♥ I didn't agree with Ji Woo's redemption AT ALL! And for those who say "Oh, Seo Joo loves all of him! Love makes you do crazy things!," poo on your head. SJ spent an ENTIRE YEAR in agony only for JW to come back a couple of days later after SJ said he was done!?! Make it make sense! I totally agree with the ex-girlfriend and parents storyline. For me, they could've wrapped that up in one episode because it really didn't add to the bottom line. All in all, excellent season 2 which can't be said about every series, let alone a K-BL. Hugs from Orlando, FL. ☀ 🌴 🏖
Ending every episode sad was difficult. I did not enjoy suffering for all but last episode, and Ji Woo realizing his mistake and being forgiven by long suffering Seo Joon was rushed. Still, I love this adorable couple and their opposite personalities, so I stuck with it. Though season 2 is painful to watch, i found it better than season 1.
I love To my star s2❤👏.Period!After second seasons disasters like Gen Y, Love Area, Color Rush, this serie came out! I have to tell, that after first episode when I found out, how the things are between Ji Woo and Seo Joon, I was shocked and pissed! But the actors portreyed them very well.Ji Woo still the one who holds his feelings back, even though he kept Seo Joon´s pyjamas🤩.. Commone guys why did he do that? Cuz he still wanted to feel his smell and when he catch the glass, cuz he was worried, that KSJ will have relaps. Love was in the air at that time❤. KSJ always talked out loud all his thoughts and showed us his vurnelability just like in first season👏.But to be honest, who does need a ex in a serie like this? She took a lot of scenes in this serie...
I agree with you 100% yes a very good series and it’s definitely a good watch I felt that I will burn down the company🤣❤️🔥I’m happy they got together in the end it could have been more realistic of our baby taking his man’s back🤧I can say I was not disappointed. I was afraid they may not get back together😪😮💨
I was just ready to try and fall asleep, but then I noticed this clip. I'm glad that you pointed out that JW had initially known, that he and his relationship with SJ would have to be hidden, due to his celebrity status, but once the day-to-day reality of experiencing that loneliness takes its toll. Especially for someone like JW, who already believes that he doesn't deserve to have anyone in his life, someone loving like SJ. The series further developed JW's backstory in this season, because only slight things were mentioned regarding his past in the first season. All that generational baggage, that unfortunately was placed on his shoulders, due to unforseen circumstances, being alone with no support system, and a home village that either treated him with scorn or sympathy. As for SJ, here is this guy, that is at the height of his fame, and he's ready to chuck it all away, for a moody, silent, chef that specializes in Italian cuisine, because he is his star. JW is SJ's "universe". SJ from the moment he met JW, he was drawn towards him. The series (both seasons), also focuses on the cost of fame, and how invasive the media can be at times to performers, and the people they have in their personal lives.
@@johnmaster3748 I think there is something about the concept of having to hide, that contributes to feeling lonely, even when you're in a relationship with someone. SJ did everything possible, during their first year, to make sure that JW knew that he was appreciated, adored, and loved by him. Yet, JW felt like he couldn't say anything about his true feelings, because he thought that ultimately, SJ would chose his career over him. He was proven wrong, but again, if you don't think that you're worthy of someone else's love, you're setting yourself up for failure. He figuratively had one foot, out of the door, during the first year of their relationship. JW thought that it would be less painful for him, if he was the one who ended things. Yet, he spent an entire year pining over SJ. Keeping up with the news regarding his career. Hoping that SJ would find him, and then when he was found, he couldn't handle his guilt, for what he did to him. So, JW keeps pushing SJ away. That one night, JW couldn't find him, he went into panic mode. He realized that he does want to be in a relationship with SJ. Now, he has to reveal the sad, weak, jealous of others, and desperately in love JW to SJ.
@@VixenByNight72 your first sentence describes The Closet. Essentially, TMS2 makes a huge point about same sex culture (the isolation and loneliness of the closet) thru this parallel with celebrity culture. Even the gesture on the street, when Ji Woo shields Seo Joo from discovery echoes the gay couple that tries to conceal the truth even when out in the open.
I can't argue with anything you said other than the pacing. Since you binged the entire series at once, maybe the pacing felt a little tighter to you. For me, some of the episodes dragged, especially the ones you mentioned, eps 7&8. I cannot emphasize enough how much I agree with your assessment of the Ji Woo redemption arc. It fell flat for me, and I would have kicked his ass to the curb if he showed up at my home. I think some of the angst and side story time could have been devoted to his redemption. At least show us that he's trying harder than just showing up and asking for a hug. The ex-girlfriend plot line was unnecessary, as you said. I did love the other villagers and Ji Woo's neighbors. They were charming and added flavor and levity to the series. I can't give the series a 9 because of the angst overload, but I think maybe an 8 or 8.5 is warranted. It's better than most of the BLs I've seen this year. I'd probably slot it at #5 at the moment, but we'll see how the rest of the year goes.
TMS2 a no fluff take is a leap of faith. Production kept faith in the writers who wrote a dramatically different tale to S1. They took viewers by surprise. About Ji Woo's redemption- i would like to disagree with you. There was no redemption. Kang seo joon just accepted him with open arms when Ji woo spoke the truth about himself that he wouldn't be able to 'chase' KSJ the way KSJ went after him all the way to some godforsaken suburb. Ji woo made me upset & flustered on so many counts while KSJ was completely endearing. KSJ was hero of this tale, a generous character who was called a stalker by JiWoo at one point. He accepted JiWoo at face value. There were some boring moments but there were exceptional ones too. The mother & daughter were perfect side characters, their accents- they really brought out some dimension to Ji Woo's plain boring, full of self pity, lost stance.The actor did a good job in portraying Ji Woo. Frankly, even if they hadn't reconciled at the end, i'd be fine.They both are such opposites.It was heartbreaking to see KSJ hustle to catch JiWoo's attention. C' mon, he just left one fine day leaving a brief note and broke up and yet KSJ put up a brave front. For me TMS 2 is most unexpected sequel ever. They could have finished in 8 eps though.
I apologize for the complete non-sequitur below but I have to boldly put this daring claim somewhere. CLAIM: The first season of *Star Trek: Strange New Worlds* is the best first season any Trek series has ever turned in, bar none. The only other candidate close is the Original Series's first season in 1966. Thank you for indulging this diversion, we now return you to regularly scheduled programming.
I'm so addicted to that show! I went in with low expectations, but wow! It's so good! It's my second fave show right now behind What We Do in the Shadows.
*thank You* for letting us know! I just checked and it has *99% certified fresh* rating on Rotten Tomatoes, I might also check it, but first I have to start Love Mechanics and Triage.
Finally I finished the 90 day copyright strike period, hope youtube will promote it now outside of my subscriber base too. but it's fine also, the comment section looks familiar.
First have to say the first season of To My Star was a series I liked but I was not as crazy about as others. I was really surprised by the story choice for season two. I feel kinda like we got the before and after and not really the inbetween, the romance. I think I would have like to have seen more of the year they were together to better understand the pain we are feeling in season 2. The flash backs were not enough for me. I like the Seo Joon /Ji Woo characters and thought the acting was great, one of the big pluses for me. I liked the small town setting but question why would Ji Woo chose to go back to his hometown a place he had experienced so much pain in the past. Liked the mother daughter side characters, agree with others the ex girlfriend was a distraction and did not really make me understand Ji Woo better. I think the story of two very different people being in love, and one of them being a famous person has alot of potential, but I do not really like how they have chosen to tell the story. There were a few nice moments but did I really need to see 9 episodes of pain, misunderstanding and stupidity to get a happy ending. I think as far as redemption is there such a thing in the context of love, first of all I do not think people really change and secondly I kinda think the definition of love is the willingness to put up with all kinds of stupid toxic behavior, to be blind, to look the other way, but I LOVE HIM/HER SO MUCH. Did Ji Woo do enough to to prove his love, redeem himself, I think is a moot point . Once Ji Woo walked up those stairs and stood in front of Seo Joon I do not think Seo Joon's heart and love would let him make any other choise but to take him back, was Ji Woo a shit, yes, but so are a lot of lovers. So I guess I liked the second season but not crazy about it, same as first season.
wow nice analysis. And i agree, people can't change, we just then to put up with all kinds of toxic behavior as *love* makes us do silly things, and after break up we just look back and both *lament and laugh* that we were being manipulated like that.
@@blcritic Thank you, I thought a lot about this series, it hit a little to close to home, yes love makes us do silly things. Some notes: KinnPorsche is finished, still not sure what I think, a lot of good things and a lot of bad things as well. I do not think people will easily forget it, I liked it but I think with the money they spent it should have been better. I have seen things that they spent $100k on that I liked as well. The casting was spot on, even Barcode in the end won me over. I know they were working from a popular book BUT come on some of the things were just stupid. I think my biggest objection was the way they made things so cartoonish, did they really need those elaborate fake looking sets and costumes? If they had done a more down and dirty, grity look it might have been better. Thai's seem to always go for the hiso look. I keep thinking what if the Korean's had done this. Unforgotten Night, just trash. My Secret Love, I keep watching, keep hoping. It is just a formula cookie cutter bl, don't hate it but not good. The reason I mention it at all is episode 6, we have the main couple and a side couple in a fluff bl taking their shirts off and making love half way thru the series, no more just a peck on the lips last episode. I guess the new direction. Sky in You Heart, GMMtv what can I say safe light entertainment, don't hate it. Want to See You, these O2 people, kinda the same actors, kinda the same story, same evil women, they have potential BUT. I think we need the reality show How to Fix a Bad BL haha Love Mechanics 2022, have to say so far they have done everything right, really loving it. I love Yin so much and War is a good match for him. I just watched episode 5, it was good. What I really liked is there was two points where they could of created fake drama and they choise not to, so nice. I am really interested to see your take on this series.
I had to laugh when this sequel started because it feels like BL fans keep begging for a season 2 for their faves because couples always get together in the penultimate or last ep and everyone just wants more scenes of domestic/cute/in-love time with their faves ...and then every single sequel season starts with the couple either broken up or long distance. I am still hoping for a sequel in which a couple works through difficulties together and builds on their relationship rather than falling apart on the flimsiest reasons. For TMS, I agree it was beautiful and there were a lot of really well done scenes but I didn't buy Jiwoo's redemption arc either. There was nothing that really made me convinced he'd actually changed long term. I think people underestimate the importance of him voicing what he wants (when he asks for the hug, as well as when he admits he's jealous to Seojoon) since in S1 Seojoon let him get away with never having to say anything. But I didn't really get how Jiwoo got there, emotionally, so I didn't necessarily believe it would be a permanent change. And he didn't just hurt Seojoon the once, he also kissed him and then abandoned him AGAIN. Even if Seojoon accepted him back, I needed so much more proof. It was good to see him surprising Seojoon and showing up as his manager for the day, maybe more like that would have done it, or if he'd explained more about what had changed for him, I'd have been happier. But I did still really like it.
It was painful to watch at times 😞 I did not like how the younger guy was harsh and cold to the actor guy 👎😕 but I agree the series was great, I enjoyed both seasons. 👍☺🥰❤❤
I felt writers just destroyed all the character development Jiwoo made in S1. Jiwoo's redemption felt so out of place and it ruined the ending for me. The entire series was a disappointment for me. The actors are great and will always love season one but this season was not my cup of tea.
Finally staggered through tms2 (about 1 ep of one character being cold and mean while the other stalked, pursued and was rejected was all I could take. And UWMA is an all time fave so it’s not a “I only want happy endings”. Overall:7 Acting: 9 Directing: 9 Story/script: 4 Kissing/intimacy: 8 (terrific for any Korean series) 8 episodes of repetitive stalking/rejection 2 eps of fluffy ending- now we communicate and trust completely Let’s also throw in a financial scandal, cute kid and obsessed ex girlfriend into the blender! How about a one man fancy restaurant with zero customers for a year? Meh.
Ji Woo is a fascinating character study. I know a lot of fans were frustrated and angry with his behavior but I completely understand it. Outside of his chef skills, he has low self esteem and internalized anxiety. He has spent much of his life alone and only depending on himself. Having feelings for someone else that greatly affects his mood is scary (increased anxiety). His respondent behavior is avoidance. When his emotions or anxiousness threaten to overwhelm him then he runs. Truly, he cannot run after Seo Joon because he does not have the confidence.
When JW admitted that he wasn't strong enough, to continue pursuing SJ, if he stayed away, was a huge first step in JW opening up about his insecurities to SJ. SJ has been trying to find out what he did "wrong" to make JW leave. He was never in the "wrong". JW admitted that to him, the night he let go, and kissed him/spent the night with SJ after they were looking for Yoo Han. JW was just not used to wanting someone so much, that made him feel so much, that made him need SJ so much, that all of those feelings for SJ terrified him. I think, it's a terrifying feeling of loving/needing/desiring someone so much, when you think that you don't deserve that person. I also think, that some viewers really don't like seeing characters displaying those fears/behaviors.
@@VixenByNight72 Your comment shows the depth of your understanding for Ji Woo's character. I touched the surface and you expanded it beautifully.
@@deborahw2770 Thank you!!
This series had me so good. I thought season 1 was great, and then came this season. I get the fans complaints of dissatisfaction with Jiwoo’s character, but from a melancholic’s (me) point of view, I find it normal - if the whole story was written in his perspective; I tend to dwell a lot in my past, in fact, I live in my own head, before I’d come up to actually discuss my problems even with the closest person to me, I’ve probably had a communion with my soul, spirit and body in my head for months.
I guess what I’m trying to say is, from his perspective, he’d been doing all the thing his partner is doing to show he loves him and wants to fight for them in his head - he needed to make peace with his past., he needed to be done with that. It took a certain level of withdrawal from his partner to get him to actually open up.
Yes, it was too easy, the way he was accepted back. But, in most relationships, someone always loves more.
That being said, I’d rate it a 9 too. Blueming and Semantic Error are just there ⬆️
"The times Seo Joon tries to woo Ji Woo in the village..." I actually like those scenes because he only wooed Ji Soo when they were alone. The rest of the time he was just there, in Ji Woo's face, not saying a word to anyone about their actual relatonship. There was no active wooing, for example, in the clip shown (at the village party). Just the implicit message, "I'm not going anywhere, even if you ignore me." Also, I liked how Seo Joon insinuated himself into that village more deeply in a few visits than Ji Woo had in his year there.
That scene with SJ singing (badly!! 😍) "the real one is here" made me laugh out loud, at his actions, because he was determined to let JW's ex realize that he was in it, to win back his heart.
I'm glad that JW and his ex, were able to get the closure they both needed, to move on, say sorry for their past relationship.
I think SJ felt that he had to be welcomed by the villagers, because his goal was to get JW back. Now, there's an entire community that knows how close those two are, all the things that SJ's status can help with the financially vitality of the village/villagers, so that the village will be their home away from Seoul.
I have putting this series off because I had heard it was a bit heavy and I was not sure I was in the mood for that type of series. I will add it to the ever growing list of things to watch!
It is not as heavy if you binge it. I liked it more than I thought I would actually.
Deborah is right, but I'd frame it differently. I think it is heavy even if you binge it, but since the binger can get through 5 hours of heavy material in 2 days, the angst doesn't burden you the same way as if you had seven days to think about each episode for 10 weeks. So easier to take with a binge. Also, you are forewarned*, so you will be braced for it. It's not THAT heavy...but if one didn't know it was coming, if one assumed light and fluffy was ahead. Well, ever go to the beach, wade a little way into the ocean, then turn your back on the waves?
I watched as the episodes aired for season two on a weekly basis. It was "heavy", but to me, the "heaviness" made sense for those characters, at that particular point in their storyline.
It just made sense. I compare the differing viewpoints on what was shown in "To My Star 2", to what happened to Oh Aew and Teh in "I Promised You The Moon".
@@VixenByNight72 "differing reactions" = one faction hating the series because "how dare they break up this couple I love and want to see happy" versus one faction recognizing those break ups as rooted in real life Things that Might Happen, then appreciating how the series depicts the emotional fallout of same?
Hmm. The complexity needed to express those two positions has me pondering....
@@johnmaster3748 Ditto!!
I also gave a 9. And I also think it was better than the original. It's difficult to imagine any series that got a 9 missing my Top Ten. I am very stingy with scores 8.5 and higher.
Perspective on the score:
I've rated 38 productions in 2022, and only 4 got 9. None, so far, have scored higher. (Heartstopper would if it were on MDL.)
In 2021, I rated 83 productions and only 9 got 9 or 9.5.
So unless the year ends with sustained brilliance, TMS2 will be tough to beat.
same here, for me 7-8 rating is okay.. I do give it to a lot... however when it comes to the 8-5-9 bracket, I am stingy... and 9.5 to 10.. well very difficult... i think i'd give one to *The Untamed* and the K drama Move to Heaven... may be ITSAY too
@@blcritic we grade similarly. And I still need to do Move to Heaven. That might be my vacation binge. Except, I'm hoping to unplug altogether.
You are spot on with my thoughts exactly! ♥ I didn't agree with Ji Woo's redemption AT ALL! And for those who say "Oh, Seo Joo loves all of him! Love makes you do crazy things!," poo on your head. SJ spent an ENTIRE YEAR in agony only for JW to come back a couple of days later after SJ said he was done!?! Make it make sense! I totally agree with the ex-girlfriend and parents storyline. For me, they could've wrapped that up in one episode because it really didn't add to the bottom line. All in all, excellent season 2 which can't be said about every series, let alone a K-BL. Hugs from Orlando, FL. ☀ 🌴 🏖
Ending every episode sad was difficult. I did not enjoy suffering for all but last episode, and Ji Woo realizing his mistake and being forgiven by long suffering Seo Joon was rushed. Still, I love this adorable couple and their opposite personalities, so I stuck with it. Though season 2 is painful to watch, i found it better than season 1.
I love To my star s2❤👏.Period!After second seasons disasters like Gen Y, Love Area, Color Rush, this serie came out! I have to tell, that after first episode when I found out, how the things are between Ji Woo and Seo Joon, I was shocked and pissed! But the actors portreyed them very well.Ji Woo still the one who holds his feelings back, even though he kept Seo Joon´s pyjamas🤩.. Commone guys why did he do that? Cuz he still wanted to feel his smell and when he catch the glass, cuz he was worried, that KSJ will have relaps. Love was in the air at that time❤. KSJ always talked out loud all his thoughts and showed us his vurnelability just like in first season👏.But to be honest, who does need a ex in a serie like this? She took a lot of scenes in this serie...
I agree with you 100% yes a very good series and it’s definitely a good watch I felt that I will burn down the company🤣❤️🔥I’m happy they got together in the end it could have been more realistic of our baby taking his man’s back🤧I can say I was not disappointed. I was afraid they may not get back together😪😮💨
I was just ready to try and fall asleep, but then I noticed this clip. I'm glad that you pointed out that JW had initially known, that he and his relationship with SJ would have to be hidden, due to his celebrity status, but once the day-to-day reality of experiencing that loneliness takes its toll. Especially for someone like JW, who already believes that he doesn't deserve to have anyone in his life, someone loving like SJ. The series further developed JW's backstory in this season, because only slight things were mentioned regarding his past in the first season. All that generational baggage, that unfortunately was placed on his shoulders, due to unforseen circumstances, being alone with no support system, and a home village that either treated him with scorn or sympathy.
As for SJ, here is this guy, that is at the height of his fame, and he's ready to chuck it all away, for a moody, silent, chef that specializes in Italian cuisine, because he is his star. JW is SJ's "universe". SJ from the moment he met JW, he was drawn towards him.
The series (both seasons), also focuses on the cost of fame, and how invasive the media can be at times to performers, and the people they have in their personal lives.
I really liked the idea that Ji Woo felt lonely even in the relationship.
@@johnmaster3748 I think there is something about the concept of having to hide, that contributes to feeling lonely, even when you're in a relationship with someone. SJ did everything possible, during their first year, to make sure that JW knew that he was appreciated, adored, and loved by him. Yet, JW felt like he couldn't say anything about his true feelings, because he thought that ultimately, SJ would chose his career over him. He was proven wrong, but again, if you don't think that you're worthy of someone else's love, you're setting yourself up for failure. He figuratively had one foot, out of the door, during the first year of their relationship. JW thought that it would be less painful for him, if he was the one who ended things. Yet, he spent an entire year pining over SJ. Keeping up with the news regarding his career. Hoping that SJ would find him, and then when he was found, he couldn't handle his guilt, for what he did to him. So, JW keeps pushing SJ away. That one night, JW couldn't find him, he went into panic mode. He realized that he does want to be in a relationship with SJ. Now, he has to reveal the sad, weak, jealous of others, and desperately in love JW to SJ.
@@VixenByNight72 your first sentence describes The Closet. Essentially, TMS2 makes a huge point about same sex culture (the isolation and loneliness of the closet) thru this parallel with celebrity culture. Even the gesture on the street, when Ji Woo shields Seo Joo from discovery echoes the gay couple that tries to conceal the truth even when out in the open.
@@johnmaster3748 Bingo!!
I can't argue with anything you said other than the pacing. Since you binged the entire series at once, maybe the pacing felt a little tighter to you. For me, some of the episodes dragged, especially the ones you mentioned, eps 7&8. I cannot emphasize enough how much I agree with your assessment of the Ji Woo redemption arc. It fell flat for me, and I would have kicked his ass to the curb if he showed up at my home. I think some of the angst and side story time could have been devoted to his redemption. At least show us that he's trying harder than just showing up and asking for a hug. The ex-girlfriend plot line was unnecessary, as you said. I did love the other villagers and Ji Woo's neighbors. They were charming and added flavor and levity to the series.
I can't give the series a 9 because of the angst overload, but I think maybe an 8 or 8.5 is warranted. It's better than most of the BLs I've seen this year. I'd probably slot it at #5 at the moment, but we'll see how the rest of the year goes.
The binge method definitely helped my appreciation.
TMS2 a no fluff take is a leap of faith. Production kept faith in the writers who wrote a dramatically different tale to S1. They took viewers by surprise.
About Ji Woo's redemption- i would like to disagree with you. There was no redemption. Kang seo joon just accepted him with open arms when Ji woo spoke the truth about himself that he wouldn't be able to 'chase' KSJ the way KSJ went after him all the way to some godforsaken suburb.
Ji woo made me upset & flustered on so many counts while KSJ was completely endearing. KSJ was hero of this tale, a generous character who was called a stalker by JiWoo at one point. He accepted JiWoo at face value.
There were some boring moments but there were exceptional ones too. The mother & daughter were perfect side characters, their accents- they really brought out some dimension to Ji Woo's plain boring, full of self pity, lost stance.The actor did a good job in portraying Ji Woo. Frankly, even if they hadn't reconciled at the end, i'd be fine.They both are such opposites.It was heartbreaking to see KSJ hustle to catch JiWoo's attention. C' mon, he just left one fine day leaving a brief note and broke up and yet KSJ put up a brave front. For me TMS 2 is most unexpected sequel ever. They could have finished in 8 eps though.
I apologize for the complete non-sequitur below but I have to boldly put this daring claim somewhere.
CLAIM: The first season of *Star Trek: Strange New Worlds* is the best first season any Trek series has ever turned in, bar none. The only other candidate close is the Original Series's first season in 1966.
Thank you for indulging this diversion, we now return you to regularly scheduled programming.
I'm so addicted to that show! I went in with low expectations, but wow! It's so good! It's my second fave show right now behind What We Do in the Shadows.
*thank You* for letting us know! I just checked and it has *99% certified fresh* rating on Rotten Tomatoes, I might also check it, but first I have to start Love Mechanics and Triage.
@@blcritic and what's the early buzz on love mechanics?
Only *Zahra* has said that she kinda liked it, others haven't said anything in here. But have to watch first 3 episodes at least. hehe
@@blcritic I like it better than the original. It's not awful, but it's not blowing my sock off, either.
I found the video 6 minutes after it posted, and it already had six views. Wouldn't it be cool if the video maintained that rate all day?
Finally I finished the 90 day copyright strike period, hope youtube will promote it now outside of my subscriber base too. but it's fine also, the comment section looks familiar.
@@blcritic I can't think of anything you've done that isn't clearly fair use for criticism.
May be I used a bit more clips then, hence, these days I am using more pictures than clips.
First have to say the first season of To My Star was a series I liked but I was not as crazy about as others. I was really surprised by the story choice for season two. I feel kinda like we got the before and after and not really the inbetween, the romance. I think I would have like to have seen more of the year they were together to better understand the pain we are feeling in season 2. The flash backs were not enough for me. I like the Seo Joon /Ji Woo characters and thought the acting was great, one of the big pluses for me. I liked the small town setting but question why would Ji Woo chose to go back to his hometown a place he had experienced so much pain in the past. Liked the mother daughter side characters, agree with others the ex girlfriend was a distraction and did not really make me understand Ji Woo better. I think the story of two very different people being in love, and one of them being a famous person has alot of potential, but I do not really like how they have chosen to tell the story. There were a few nice moments but did I really need to see 9 episodes of pain, misunderstanding and stupidity to get a happy ending. I think as far as redemption is there such a thing in the context of love, first of all I do not think people really change and secondly I kinda think the definition of love is the willingness to put up with all kinds of stupid toxic behavior, to be blind, to look the other way, but I LOVE HIM/HER SO MUCH. Did Ji Woo do enough to to prove his love, redeem himself, I think is a moot point . Once Ji Woo walked up those stairs and stood in front of Seo Joon I do not think Seo Joon's heart and love would let him make any other choise but to take him back, was Ji Woo a shit, yes, but so are a lot of lovers. So I guess I liked the second season but not crazy about it, same as first season.
wow nice analysis. And i agree, people can't change, we just then to put up with all kinds of toxic behavior as *love* makes us do silly things, and after break up we just look back and both *lament and laugh* that we were being manipulated like that.
@@blcritic Thank you, I thought a lot about this series, it hit a little to close to home, yes love makes us do silly things.
Some notes:
KinnPorsche is finished, still not sure what I think, a lot of good things and a lot of bad things as well. I do not think people will easily forget it, I liked it but I think with the money they spent it should have been better. I have seen things that they spent $100k on that I liked as well. The casting was spot on, even Barcode in the end won me over. I know they were working from a popular book BUT come on some of the things were just stupid. I think my biggest objection was the way they made things so cartoonish, did they really need those elaborate fake looking sets and costumes? If they had done a more down and dirty, grity look it might have been better. Thai's seem to always go for the hiso look. I keep thinking what if the Korean's had done this.
Unforgotten Night, just trash.
My Secret Love, I keep watching, keep hoping. It is just a formula cookie cutter bl, don't hate it but not good. The reason I mention it at all is episode 6, we have the main couple and a side couple in a fluff bl taking their shirts off and making love half way thru the series, no more just a peck on the lips last episode. I guess the new direction.
Sky in You Heart, GMMtv what can I say safe light entertainment, don't hate it.
Want to See You, these O2 people, kinda the same actors, kinda the same story, same evil women, they have potential BUT. I think we need the reality show How to Fix a Bad BL haha
Love Mechanics 2022, have to say so far they have done everything right, really loving it. I love Yin so much and War is a good match for him. I just watched episode 5, it was good. What I really liked is there was two points where they could of created fake drama and they choise not to, so nice. I am really interested to see your take on this series.
@@samtab2364 "How to Fix a Bad BL" reality TV show?! I would watch it! 😉
Hey bestie 💞💞💞
Hey hey long time no see...
@@blcritic yea 💞💞
I had to laugh when this sequel started because it feels like BL fans keep begging for a season 2 for their faves because couples always get together in the penultimate or last ep and everyone just wants more scenes of domestic/cute/in-love time with their faves ...and then every single sequel season starts with the couple either broken up or long distance. I am still hoping for a sequel in which a couple works through difficulties together and builds on their relationship rather than falling apart on the flimsiest reasons. For TMS, I agree it was beautiful and there were a lot of really well done scenes but I didn't buy Jiwoo's redemption arc either. There was nothing that really made me convinced he'd actually changed long term. I think people underestimate the importance of him voicing what he wants (when he asks for the hug, as well as when he admits he's jealous to Seojoon) since in S1 Seojoon let him get away with never having to say anything. But I didn't really get how Jiwoo got there, emotionally, so I didn't necessarily believe it would be a permanent change. And he didn't just hurt Seojoon the once, he also kissed him and then abandoned him AGAIN. Even if Seojoon accepted him back, I needed so much more proof. It was good to see him surprising Seojoon and showing up as his manager for the day, maybe more like that would have done it, or if he'd explained more about what had changed for him, I'd have been happier. But I did still really like it.
It was painful to watch at times 😞 I did not like how the younger guy was harsh and cold to the actor guy 👎😕 but I agree the series was great, I enjoyed both seasons. 👍☺🥰❤❤
I felt writers just destroyed all the character development Jiwoo made in S1. Jiwoo's redemption felt so out of place and it ruined the ending for me. The entire series was a disappointment for me. The actors are great and will always love season one but this season was not my cup of tea.
Finally staggered through tms2 (about 1 ep of one character being cold and mean while the other stalked, pursued and was rejected was all I could take.
And UWMA is an all time fave so it’s not a “I only want happy endings”.
Overall:7
Acting: 9
Directing: 9
Story/script: 4
Kissing/intimacy: 8 (terrific for any Korean series)
8 episodes of repetitive stalking/rejection
2 eps of fluffy ending- now we communicate and trust completely
Let’s also throw in a financial scandal, cute kid and obsessed ex girlfriend into the blender!
How about a one man fancy restaurant with zero customers for a year? Meh.
such a honest review!