So many shows!
Can you share one of those talismans that can separate my soul from my body? Then I can multi-task and binge absorb the essences of all the episodes while the physical me completes my daily tasks, eating, sleeping, and so forth. lol. But usually the airing schedules tend to space out more, so it will probably allow more time to slowly sip and savor. Bai Lu is definitely very queenly and commands a presence in Story of Kunning Palace. Only have love for Only For Love. Bai Lu and Wang He Di. (Every time I say his name, I feel like the megaphone sound needs to follow, like in his variety shows. lol)
Love is Panacea!! Episode 4!!! Omg!! hahahha. I died laughing in this episode. Overall, this bromance and brobanter is way too funny. lol Nian Bai Yu. ::smh:: Oh, his love interest IS the same actress as Lin Lang from Legend of Anle! In TTEOTM, they were only able to allude to some kind of love interest for Nian Bai Yu. (Actually, come to think of it, was he even aware in his obliviousness?) Then there was Ling Lan. Will Luo MingXi make a special appearance? lol. j/k. So it's kind of pleasantly sweet for these two to pair up. Overall, so far this show is leading my watch list. I think there was some thought provoking themes, hopeful messages, and meaningful depth to this show. But hilarious too. Maybe the timing is not ideal, but they really should win some kind of award.
Love is Panacea: Episodes 5-11
I'm catching up! I'm catching up! (probably lots of spoilers ahead.) Episode 10 was my favorite in this batch! But if you're behind like me, don't do what I did --- which was to immediately jump into episode 11.
The ML is pulling all the stops for the FL, pulling things out of nowhere! lol. He literally made a nerdy pickup line about spit! And then he made up an entire story for a rock, and turned it into a good luck charm. The words coming out his mouth were so unbelievable, but yet the actions behind those words contain sincerity, thoughtfulness, and kindness. I think that's what hope is. Something from what could be nothing. Or maybe it was there all along, but at this moment, you can only see it for what it is today, and not what it could be tomorrow. I think there's a lot of awareness too, that this isn't something that a conversation can address, and you can see the patience.
When they were talking about constellations, did you think about Silent Moon? hahah.
It's the grandpa's EIGHTIETH birthday and grandson can't make it, but what's the first question that grandpa asks? Basically, "Oh, a girl? Don't worry about it. Go get her!" Priorities. lol. He even tells that rest of the family that he wants celebrations this year to be low-key. How awesome is grandpa and that relationship?
Cake. Happy "Me" Day. =*(. Usually people would simply buy a cake or do the funnest part, decorate the cake. But to take lessons, bake the cake, and decorate it --- only to give it away and never even taste it. I think that says a lot about the character, more than the regrets.
FL. We are now beginning to learn more about her underlying fears. What caused her to give up being a doctor? Ok, if not a doctor, why this "nomadic" lifestyle? She is forced to transition and switch roles: from someone receiving care to someone providing care. We had a small taste before, but now the stakes are higher and more personal.
Love is Panacea: Episode 12 -
Call the Rock by Any Other Name
The jeweler conversation. lol.
Oh no. The BingChang is back! (as another character and actress. Maybe she is more of a Tin Ha character.) The fakeness and pure evil emanating from this one! lol. She can't even be bothered to better conceal her disdain. When her fiance's mother, who is her advocate, tries to defend her, notice that she didn't even say the typical "she's actually a very nice, sweet girl". Instead, it's something like "I can tell she's really into you." lol. I laugh, but there's bound to be troubled waters ahead, frrrriend. puahahahahhahaha!
Love is Panacea: Episode 13-15
MingFan likes to be called 哥哥! hahaha! Well, MingFan Ger Ger did not miss a beat in these episodes. Girlfriend was unusually nice to him? "What did I do wrong?!" Truth or dare? "Tell us one of [your boss]'s secrets"? "There's too many. I don't know." ::drink:: lol
Linglan has wandering eyes in this show? How can this be?
The psychologist character is. very. intense. I hope her education and background wasn't meant to stereotype her behavior. There are many prestigous universities, locally and abroad; in the professional world, professionalism is personally accountable.
If we felt there were too many misunderstandings in TTEOTM, and wished the main characters would simply talk to each other, then we won't be disappointed here. As a doctor, his first instinct is to find the root cause or at least eliminate the more serious possibilities, so he doesn't hesitate. We are rooting for you, Dr. G!
Wow, that other doctor is so bad. We always think that a doctor's words are absolute. They are orders, after all. But in fact, doctors are humans too. They come in many varieties, and can be affected by a number of factors. At the end of the day, it is no more than an educated opinion. Diagnosis is an educated guess, based on a decision tree. So effective communication, an open-mind, and willingness is what makes any team stronger and keeps the profession at a higher standard.
Love is Panacea: Episode 16-17 - Company doesn't love misery
Company doesn't love misery.
At this point, misery doesn't want company either. lol. Backing up a little bit, a lot of things were happening in the aunt's emergency visit. But from one of the conversations, whether by trade or by love, the FL has been very observant and attentive to the aunt. She knows what's normal and what's not normal behavior for the aunt, how long these medical episodes usually last, etc., even more so than the mom. So, even though viewers are seeing the aunt for the first time since she was "well", the FL has been living through her aunt's deterioriation on a day in and day out basis.
There's not much known about Huntington. On one hand, she's still trying to resolve her father's abrupt accident and the potential underlying cause. On the other hand, her aunt is still alive. However, she's the alternative path to how things could play out with the FL's own fate. On top of things, FL idolized both of these people. So there is a lot of weight, but she has to compartmentalize to hold things together.
The ML's older brother who is also pursuing the FL. Feel bad for the guy. Doesn't do anything bad, but feels like only his mother speaks and shows true affection for him. lol. Seriously, where's the love for this guy? lol.
Between the two brothers, we are really rooting for Dr. G, of course. He doesn't hesitate for her on many levels, but at this moment, we could argue that the older brother loves the FL just as much. "Check. Been there, done that." If it weren't for someone else figuring things out the hard way, this character sure didn't tell anyone all these years. Meanwhile's been brunting his family's perceptions of him.
The older brother offers her what she needs; Dr. G offers her what she wants. The fancy room vs. thoughtfulness and comfort for the patient. We could fix problems one by one as they arise or we can look for a cure.
Love is Panacea: Episode 17
I know how to decipher your words.
You have a delusion problem. It's fixable. Dr. Li should be able to help you.
lol
Glad Dr. Gu has more opportunity in this episode. A little traveling. A light watch.
Love is Panacea: Episode 18
The most amazing natural phenomena appears. And Dr. Gu says the FL is the one that brings the surprises.
An epic breakup: Part Deux. Never thought I'd feel sorry for the evil girlfriend character. Never thought that ANYone could say ANYthing to phase her, but the big brother managed to. Did you see his one reaction?!
He found her words ridiculous. He small-laughed on the outside, but had to WIPE his TEARS from that laughing. The judgment that he casted on her! He was laughing AT her, TO her FACE!
But shortly afterwards, she opens her mouth again, and we find ourselves yanking our hearts back to the sidelines. Please, please. Continue. Sorry for interrupting.
Often, scenes will leave you with a dreadful feeling after a good character angers a bad character. You have to suffer through rounds and rounds of the good character being powerless and the bad character gets what they want. Here, the big brother puts a stop to this nonsense, however long that might last. It's not overly satisfying; just deservingly satisfying. Mental note: don't cross the big brother.
Love is Panacea: Episode 19-20
Normally I like to watch all highlights, trailers, bts, and such, but for this series, I've been avoiding potential spoilers and going too far ahead. Given the current progress and the way they've handled the show so far, I'm cautiously optimistic that the heart will be gently let down or hopefully celebrate, but most likely not crushed and turned to powder. Cautiously. And Optimistic.
We experience how hard it is to get mail to the proper recipient, even at this day and age, even if the post office did their part. Former rivals can be friends. Some enemies are still enemies.
Evil ex-girlfriend needs to be taken aside for a little chat again with the older brother. As they were walking, all I could think about was:
- This area seems a little quiet.
- There's some lighting, but more would be better.
- There's a lot of water all around.
- Where's all the witnesses.....I mean, people!! Where's all the people?
Before I knew it, the chat was over, and the older brother was like "I have some matters to take care of. I won't be able to give you a ride." And HE LEFT HER THERE!!! rofl.
Love is Panacea: Episode 21-22
We see the care, selflessness, and dedication of medical workers in many forms. They have families; they have loved ones; they have just as much at stake, yet they often put aside their own self-interests, choose a more complex, but more suitable technique, or even risk their own health, and take actions that are in the best interest of the patient.
Some sweet, touching scenes in 22!
If one day, accident comes before illness, and I'm the one that leaves first, would you regret being with me?
If you thought of me when you felt most vulnerable, why do you push me away when things take a turn for the better?
Ok, stop crying. You are in protective gear; I can't wipe your tears.
lol. A Love is Sweet scene is readapted and recreated. Look at his expression too! hahahah.
Incidentally, I took a peek over at Only for Love. Happened to pick an episode where Bai Lu is trying to pick out the scallions from her food. Can you imagine if these two characters were to have dinner together? They'd spend all night picking out each other's garnishes.
Love is Panacea: Episode 23-24
"Medicine has long been our faith and instinct."
"Only passion can make us fearless against the uncertainties of the world."
"Although she stays behind the scenes, she is the hero [and treasure] in her colleagues' hearts."
"Doctors who save lives aren't necessarily the ones holding the scalpel."
"Now I think it is a good thing to have burdens. When you have burdens, you won't leave without saying goodbye."
"This is called strategy, understand?"
...::spritz, spritz:: lol
"FANG MINGFAN!! You deserve to be single!"
So that's what the aunt had to do.
Love is Panacea: Episode 25
"I've never been afraid before. I'm afraid I can't create a miracle."
"You must have learned the art of face-changing."
Love is Panacea: Episode 26
Sticky notes and fish ice pack. Luo Yunxi and his future mother-in-law scenes!
Love is Panacea: Episode 27
Wow, the older brother! 2 explosive scenes in this episode. From his interaction with the evil ex girlfriend, we always knew he had an edge to his personality, but that side only appeared when deservingly provoked. Here, his treatment of the aunt is a bit chilling. At the same time, he raises some interesting questions, and of all the characters, he would be the one to raise them. Do we focus on the 1% of negative and ignore the 99% of the positive? When faced with a certain amount of uncertainty, do we hedge our chances swiftly and boldly or live in certainty but with a chance of hope? I think the answer depends on the information that we have and who gets to make those decisions. Also, just curious. Was it not possible to continue advancing, and list the possible side effects, if it indeed only affects people with HBP?
The scene at his grandfather's house. From the grandfather's perspective, his grandson did a very bad thing here. So he disciplines the older brother. But worse than any amount of scolding, beating, or teaching, he simply rescinds his welcoming of the older brother to his house, essentially banishing him and casting him out. At this point, the older brother's frustrations, from childhood to adulthood, reaches top level. Yet, he's only reasoning with the grandfather, pointing out the difference in treatment, trying to understand why, why does he deserve this, and trying to have a heart-to-heart conversation. However, just when the grandfather was beginning to reflect on his actions, the father puts a stop and scolds the older brother/his son for the way he was talking to grandfather. Instantly, the disbelief and defeat in the older brother's glance. Yet, he bows respectfully, acknowledging both the grandfather and the father, and calmly announces that he will now longer visit the house, basically an "as you please" hasta la vista.
At the end of the day, it's true; the villa is just an old person living in an old house. If there was no connection or relationship, why would he want to keep coming? It's the people, and the their collective effort in never-ending toleration, patience, and love that make a house a home. But at a smaller level, it's very easy to fall into a particular role. Maybe if there's a way to for us to carry out our duties while having better communication and having conversations or listening earlier. I hope at least grandpa will reach out to the older brother later.
We also contrast this with Dr. Gu and his Shifu's relationship. How they can come to terms with differences, bond with their similarities, and hash it out over dinner.
Love is Panacea: Episode 28
I suppose it makes sense, but didn't realized that choosing your research topic could be such a commitment and have such impact on all aspects of your life. Much respect.
lol. Looks like the FL has taken a chapter from the fox's hotel lobby playbook. Pleasant surprise after surprise.
Speaking of surprises, the picture scene. So the accident probably had something to do with the Dr. Gu's mother discovering her husband's affair. But Dr. Gu didn't know until now. Dr. Gu's mother was married into the family first, but Dr. Gu is not the older son. And the older brother was not adopted.
Another family conversation scene, except there is one common denominator. I don't think there will be any Father of the Year soon.
-----
Side anecdote. It was the weekend, and was waiting for Love is Panacea. Decided to check out Love Me, Love My Voice. I know, I know. Tan Janci dramas are not meant be used in such ways.
Anyway, the premise is quite unexpected. The FL is talking to her friend over the phone, but through a chatroom.. (I guess it's like a Zoom call.) Her bus enters a tunnel, her friend can't be heard anymore, and instead the ML (Tan Janci) starts talking about recipes. At the end, she looks at the chat log, and confirms that he did in fact enter and leave the chatroom. I guess that's fine. Technology, right? BUT the next scene shows him WAKING up from a NAP, hungry. No phone, no laptop. How and WHO was talking to her?!!!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! I was genuinely scared for a good second. Remember, you are watching romance, romance, not horror, ok? Ok.
People fly in wuxia, so I can accept. I just needed a minute, that's all.
I can't stop laughing in the recipe scenes! HAHAHAH! I know Tan Jianci is known for his voice, and I'm supposed to appreciate. I just don't think I can handle someone talking about food like that in real life. hahah. But what doesn't help is that I know someone who is a big fan of Gordon Ramsay. Unfortunately, although my vocabulary has broadened, my culinary skills haven't. And LMLVM keeps showing these food scenes! So I'm hungry, I can't cook, I'm trying to listen to Tan Jianci's voice while simultaneously fighting off ANY images of Gordon Ramsay. And. I. Can't. Stop. LAUGHING. And now I can't sleep either! lol
Love is Panacea: Episode 29
Major revelations to the family dynamics and history. The timeline of events seems to be this:
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The father was dating the older son's mother first.
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The father decided to break up with her.
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The father marries the younger son's/Dr. Gu's mom. They were deemed more compatible, especially in terms of class/education.
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However, older brother's mother was already pregnant with the older brother.
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The father had wanted the older brother to be aborted. However, older brother's mother couldn't, b/c that was her flesh and blood. She decides to give birth and raise him in "hiding", where she doesn't need to face the public.
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The father was apparently telling her to wait for him.
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Dr. Gu is born one year after the older brother.
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She waited for like 7 years. The older brother is now ready to enter school, where presumably other kids will ask about his parents, need to go parent-teacher meetings, etc., so she felt she needed to do something.
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She sends Dr. Gu's mother a "We are the real family" photograph with the father, the older brother, and herself.
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Dr. Gu's mother has an accident, with photo still on her.
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The father remarries, with the older brother's mother.
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Dr. Gu and father's relationship deteriorate, to the point that Dr. Gu moves out, lives with Grandpa, and doesn't take on the Du family name anymore. Dr. Gu was under the impression that his mom had abandoned him. He basically assumes the fate that the older brother's mom had dreaded for her own son.
-
Meanwhile, probably to save face, the connotation is that the older brother came along with the mother during the remarriage, implying that he was adopted. Officially, he carries the family name and is considered the next in line as the oldest, and is the designated branch node for the family tree. The similarities between father and son are strong, so supposedly there's no way that the grandfather (aka insiders) couldn't tell that the relationship is biological.
Oye. We first think it's: 1 family, 3 generations, 2 brothers, 2 different stories, but it's actually the same tragedy. More bonus points with dropping by the future in-laws.
Love is Panacea: Episode 30
Luo Yunxi and his win over his MIL scenes, part 2! Quite a touching speech/gesture. The mother knew the whole time! It's interesting to learn about the research process. Only 4 more episodes left.
Love is Panacea: Episode 31
A little flower thief enters the garden, and plucks the best looking plant for his future MIL!...despite much reluctance from the gardener. "Well, why didn't you say so? I'll bring over half the garden in that case."
lol. Can't believe the grandpa just showed up with his housekeeper and invited himself over! Then it was truly the more the marry her...merrier! Such a nest hearted episode.
Why did they have tissue papper taped all over their faces? To keep score? hahahahaha These people are out of control. lol
Love is Panacea: Episode 32
Wow, such a sad turn for the older brother. The temper, the drinking, even the clothes are showing his darkness. He started out with good intentions, at least had self-awareness with reality, and made some good arguments. What is his thinking? It's strange how he cared so much about this person before and now wants to compete against them, and do things that damage the relationship beyond repair, especially when the other person is racing against time. And such extents. I'm not quite sure I understand the motive. Jealousy against the younger brother? Maybe we're just supposed to chalk it up to usual garden variety. Either way, he's been an interesting baddie. Shawn Wei is the actor's name. Will need to remember.
lol. This grandpa is too sweet!! Now we know where the charm was inherited from.
Only two episodes left! Still no tissues needed yet, but this episode is starting to tug on the heartstrings! Dr. Gu and mom are so strong and supportive! Su Wei An may be the luckiest of the unlucky!
Love is Panacea: Episode 33
So many touching gestures and moments in this episode! Gestures that might be seemingly simple to others, but were so grand in their own way, especially to the person/people that mattered the most. The care and the thought behind the gifter; the reaction and appreciation from the recipient made everything worthwhile. But it also wasn't a "caught up in the moment" situation either. Whatever doubts, fears, or hesitation simply couldn't back the significance. Once they knew, they knew. Sweetest proposal. The selflessness and bravery is also so admirable.
Love is Panacea: Episode 34
Finale! I'm ok with the ending. It was gentle, yet realistic and touched on the relevant points. Very touching. I'm glad we got to know the patient first and foremost. Her affliction was something that happened to her. Even with the odds against her, even compounded by other surrounding factors, she carved a path. To say that she made some significant contributions would be an understatement.
Her support, the ML, was outstanding, as usual.
It's interesting to learn about industry, how the process works, the people behind, the people affected, the challenges that everyone faces, and the effort, sacrifices, support, strength, and dedication.
Overall, a great drama and great cast. The 2nd leads were great. Fang Ming Fan's presence is a welcoming addition. The bromance chemistry is unshakeable. Heard he was in one of the pictures for the booting ceremony. Will he be in the new show too? That would be great! Glad 2F got her Fand Ming Fan. Her role in The Legend of Anle is so memorable and so strong. Even non-lead cast were good to watch, grandpa, older brother, mom, etc.