L'Empire du sourire

So in episode 9 there is a depiction of an Arab prince that is not Arab but Indian and does all sorts of things not allowed in Islam, which is the reason for all the hate in this series. You may also notice a lot of reviews from Islamic countries due to this controversie. The rating is not an accurate representation of the quality of the series. However, do not be discouraged to watch this if you are not Muslim! For most people this series will score a solid 7 at least and should rank somewhere between 7-8 probably.

It is an enjoyable serie with good acting and some humor and plot twists and turns. Sure, it is not the most original plot or innovative and apparently not even culturally appropriate but it is an enjoyable watch that will satisfy most RomCom and Comedy Drama watchers. The quality is on average still way above most hollywood series and movies nowadays too.

In short, feel free to watch the first episode as it is fun to watch and a good representation of the overall quality of the series. I am sure you won't be disappointed! Again, if you are Muslim perhaps skip this series as it is not for you and you and you may feel like it severely misrepresents your culture and customs.

I was genuinely surprised to see low ratings for this show. I think many people drop it after the first few episodes and to be fair I almost did too since it was a bit slow boring. However, the show picks up around episode 3 and I found myself liking the show more and more each episode. The cast is great and there are a lot of funny moments. I think if anyone is considering watching the show I advise you to stick it out atleast passed the first three episodes. I can see why some people might have dropped it after only watching the first few episodes, but I'm glad I stuck it out because it got better. It's a comforting show to watch and I look forward to the episodes each weekend. If anyone has dropped this show I recommend giving it a second chance.

This show got off to a slow start, and it's less fun when some characters are just blindly ragingly mean.

But the two leads have good chemistry, the gals hanging out is fun, and Mr Ngo is passable comic relief. This show introduces a little, and ever episode introduces a little more.

The chemistry of this story is basically Mary Poppins in a dog-eat-dog world, some far-fetched though passable events that make for escapist storytelling, and the Little Women theme of surviving in the modern world.

It wouldn't be a KDrama if the handsome lead didn't meet up with the most gorgeous gal in the world... who has a BF.

Again, the first couple episodes are OK, but the story gets more interesting.

Im Yoon-ah plays Cheon Sa-rang a hotel worker who is very dedicated to her job and is an outstanding employee serving the King hotels guests for whom she works. Into her life comes Goo Won played by LeeJun-ho who is the son of the owner of King group who owns various businesses including the hotel. He is an irresponsible playboy who is estranged from his family and has no interest in his fathers business. The series is incredibly well acted and with a great supporting cast all dealing with their own various problems. It has received criticism on two fronts, one being it is a rehash of many past dramas but I think that is part of the appeal as it's aim is to warm your heart with the nostalgic tropes. The other being the way an Arab was portrayed which offended many people who have awarded a one score to show their displeasure.

I guess you'll have to watch it to find out if you love or hate it. I agree that the start was slow, but now I really look forward to it on the weekends and I'm smiling throughout the episode. Hate the plot all you want but the lead couple and other actors have done a great job. Love the development and natural style of the lead couple, and how they both are not perfect but developing their communication and really perfect together. The visuals are nice too. I really appreciate this drama, it gave me so many positive moments. Given the either 1 or 10 star reviews, I guess at least it doesn't leave you indifferent.