Mizushiro Setona - After School Nightmare, vol. 10 (Chi. trans.)

Wow, end of the series!

( Series-destroying spoilers! )

Mars, ep. 15-20

Wow, I really love this drama. It does have many of the same flaws that the manga does, as it largely follows the same plot, but the script and the actors make some small changes that end up making me much happier about the plot and the characterization. The drama is also much tighter than the manga and less sensational and gothic, so in the end, the focus on Ling and Qi Luo as a couple and as individuals is tighter.

I'd rec this for people who love the manga, with a note that the drama doesn't get rid of all the gender issues, and I'd definitely rec this to people looking for a good, solid romance. I am probably more invested than people new to the series would be, but I think the drama alone does a good job of showing the stages of a relationship that come after the meet-cute. Though there are many of the same Big Misunderstandings that come with romantic dramas, my favorite part about the series is that Ling and Qi Luo amazingly talk to each other and trust each other, as opposed to leaping to conclusions. I also adore Qi Luo's friendship with another girl, and though many of their conversations are about romance, there's also the feel that it's a good, solid friendship that goes beyond talking about boys.

( Spoilers for all the manga and the drama )

In conclusion: love Ling, absolutely adore Qi Luo, and am tempted to watch the entire thing again.

AKICOLJ

Would anyone who watches a lot of Bollywood movies be willing to watch this and tell me how the dancing is? (possible spoilers for So You Think You Can Dance Top 12)

( Reasoning )

Also also, while I am here, commentary on the African jazz piece very welcome!