I assume everyone will know by now that the highly anticipated drama adaptation of "SKIP BEAT" manga has been released by Taiwan and now at episode 4.
Next, I do have issue with the cast. I have nothing against the female lead personally except the nagging thought that she is not right for the role. I thought she was ok in other drama but in here, she feel flat. She just couldnt deliver it, the spunk, the wit, the persistence nature, the drive and the adorable cuteness of Kyoko. Having big eyes doesnt mean a thing if you cannot act using those eyes. Lacking a better word, she came across as "amateurish" and "bland". Someone that doesnt inspire any imagination, nor garner support from the audience like me. After 4 episodes, she still remind me of some country pumpkin wannabe...who is just like some love lost suffering whiny puppy....sad...
As for the male leads, why on earth did they pick Korean stars? There's a talent drought in Taiwan entertainment industry? Ok, I have nothing against Korean stars but as a Taiwanese production, at least have one Taiwanese male star in it for heaven sake. If I want to watch Koreans actors, I will stick to Korean dramas.
To be fair, Lee Dong Hae as Shou was rather fitting. He had the aura of a singer (which didnt require much acting since he is in reality) and he delivered the characteristic of Shou rather well. He is by far, the ONLY character that is interesting and an actor that I like in the whole series to date.
As for Si Won as Ren, sorry, I dont buy it. I dont care how many girlies swoon over him in other casting roles but he doesnt do it for me in this drama as the lead man Ren. He doesnt have the charisma needed, he couldnt convince me of the true nature of Ren, that is wearing a friendly mask, hiding a buried darkness within him. Nope. Wearing a white smart suit does not automatically convince me that you are a "Super-star". Plus, he is not attractive to me. He just look like some goody two shoes business man or at times, Si Won's portrayal here reminded me of some "Godfather" 2nd rate character than a well loved celeb...Plus, I dont think he got a good gripe on Ren's character well. Si won's role was blunt and sarcastic and Si won tried to pass off his dubious looking smile as the "million watts" bright smile in the manga. I know manga cannot be translated literally but please, at least try to be more convincing with the fake smile. I couldnt tell his shock look from his nonchalant look, or sarcastic look because they all look about the same to me. Si Won, u need major polishing up in your acting department based on this drama alone.
This drama is feeling so lame that I question myself spending time sitting there (so to not feel so stupid, I have my homework with me). The only thing that is holding me back by a super fine thread is Dong Hae's character. Hopefully he will continue not to disappoint me as the rest.
I dont know why the producer choose to proceed in the slapstick comedy manner. Sometimes, I wish they wont destroy the essence of manga the way they do. I am hoping Japan and Korea will learn from this major flop production and do a better remake (with a better casting hopefully)
If you are cursing me by now for my critics, i'm sorry. I can only say I dont share the same "taste" as you guys....though I had once held so much anticipation and excitement for this production....sigh.
