Entertainment
GadgetMatch Reacts: Netflix’s Start-Up
Not your usual K-drama?
Spoiler Alert: If you haven’t seen Start-Up, please read with caution.
Start-Up has been the talk of the town for quite some time. And there’s a reason why people are enamored with the K-Drama and its cast. It showcases the struggles of starting a business and discusses the technology we have now and about to have in the future.
But more importantly, people are giggling over Seo Dal-mi (Bae Suzy) and her chemistry with Nam Do-san (Nam Joo-Hyuk) and Han Ji-Pyeong (Kim Seon-Ho).
Of course, everyone has their own opinions and thoughts about the show. Such is the case for the GadgetMatch team. Find out what their thoughts are about Start-Up in this GadgetMatch Reacts episode.
“A generally feel-good watch.”
Why did you watch Start-Up?
Suzy. Bae.
Which character is the most relatable for you?
In a way I kinda related to both the male leads. With Do San, I remember my younger years being indecisive and mostly unsure of myself. But overall, it’s really Ji Pyeong that I saw myself in the most.
My role at work now requires me to think fast, be knowledgeable, and make quick, smart decisions all on the fly. I also take a while to make a move on women I like. Lol. Although, unlike Good Boy, my tongue isn’t as sharp and I look absolutely nothing like him — which is pretty tragic.
Your honest thoughts about the series?
I just thought it was a really fun, lighthearted watch. I didn’t really put too much thought into how accurate the portrayals of running a start-up and what not. I’m already too busy and too stressed running a team to put myself through all that trouble.
For me, it was a reward every weekend. The dynamic between the characters was fantastic and just a joy to watch.
If I had to point something out, it was how the smartphones/gadgets they were using didn’t really reflect the three-year time skip. But this, along with the other potential inconsistencies didn’t really takeaway from my overall experience of the drama.
Which love team are you rooting for?
#TeamGoodBoy only because I saw myself acting the way he did more.
Would you recommend Start-Up?
100%. As I kept mentioning, this is a thoroughly enjoyable drama and one I would likely rewatch over the holidays, assuming I’m able to squeeze in a break.
“Could’ve explored more about business and technology”
Why did you watch Start-Up?
I was on the verge of quitting my plans to set up the passion project I planned five years ago. As a show about business and technology, Start-Up piqued my curiosity.
Which character is the most relatable for you?
I was leaning towards between Seo Dal-mi, Jung Sa-ha, and Won In-Jae. In terms of aspirations, I’m as ambitious and idealistic as Seo Dal-mi, and I like taking risks in my career and other opportunities. Won In-Jae’s commanding persona is what I also wear on most days.
Although, my friends and I claim I’m more of a Jung Sa-ha — Looks presentable, composed, unbothered, and has high self-esteem and self-worth. Like her, I’m also a designer.
Your honest thoughts about the series?
Start-Up, for the most part, gave the average people a sneak peek on how start-ups, the business world, and technology industry work. I liked it when the show presented the female leads as technology entrepreneurs, as opposed to the usual male CEOs.
However, the show focused more on the usual K-drama tropes — emotional moments and romantic scenes — instead of exploring character developments and showcasing teamwork and other ingredients needed to succeed in work and life.
Frankly, we could’ve at least watched Morning Group’s downfall, Won Sang-Su and the twin developers suffering the consequences, the Seo sister’s eomma standing up for herself, and more.
Which love team were you rooting for?
Jung Sa-ha and Lee Chul-san. Their development was more exciting than Seo Dal-mi’s relationships. Also, their love team showcased a proper example of setting boundaries and appreciating someone’s efforts.
Would you recommend Start-Up?
Absolutely. It’s full of lessons, kilig moments, and has a lot of episodes that left me awestruck with its cinematography, lovely music, and heartbreaking lines that will make you realize a lot of things that you can apply in your life.
“Should’ve been 21 episodes, not just 16.”
Why did you watch Start-Up?
Although I’m very much aware that (my) Bae Suzy is one of the prominent K-actresses around, I honestly didn’t even know she’s part of the cast at first as I was really interested seeing the drama’s synopsis revolving around tech and start-ups more than the cast themselves.
Which character is the most relatable for you?
As much as I want to be as successful and charismatic as Han Ji-pyeong, I can say I can relate to Nam Do-san more especially with his lack of self-esteem and worth, plus the struggles in finding his dreams and not being able to move forward because of that baggage he carried for so long.
Your honest thoughts about the series?
It’s hard to sum it up in one sentence but it’s really a must-watch K-drama not just because I’m a Hallyu fan and a tech junkie, but mainly because we can learn from each character’s struggles that most of us encounter in our mid-20s.
Which love team were you rooting for?
Spoiler Alert: Although I barely believe in the saying “first love never dies”, I honestly rooted for Dal-mi and Ji-pyeong more but the drama made their relationship awkward when the real “Do-san” got discovered — but of course, I expected the ending to be that way because I clearly know the writer loves Second Lead Syndrome and I have no hard feelings with Start-Up’s ending (unlike what I felt in Reply 1988) because Do-san is also a decent guy.
Would you recommend Start-Up?
I’m neither from IMDb nor Rotten Tomatoes but it’s definitely one of the best (if not the best) K-Dramas I’ve watched this 2020 especially for the life lessons — and this series also proves that technology is rapidly shaping the future.
“Escapism while brushing up on your tech jargon.”
Why did you watch Start-Up?
The plot was interesting and I thought I’d learn a bit more about start-ups in general. I did. A bit.
Which character is the most relatable for you?
In-Jae for her drive and ambition. Ji-Pyeong for how direct he can be even if it hurts. Honesty all the way, baby. There were also days when I also wanted to high-five Sa-Ha while going ‘yaaas sis!’.
Your honest thoughts about the series?
I really enjoyed the series and would even stay up late just to see what happens next right away. I started out as a card-bearing member of Team Good Boy but found Dal-Mi’s character annoying mid-way in the series. Admittedly, I was staying on for Ji-Pyeong and Do-San who’s also really likeable.
I think Start-Up ended in the best possible way. Spoiler alert: I love that they didn’t force pairings for the second leads just to tie up loose ends in the finale, showing that while romantic love is great and all, there are other ways to find fulfillment in life.
Which love team were you rooting for?
Dal-Mi can have Do-San because it’s Carol and Ji-Pyeong all the way for me. He reminds me of my husband sometimes. *giggles like a school girl*
Would you recommend Start-Up?
Totally. It’s one of my favorites this year and there have been a lot of good ones so far. It’s light and something that would really make you feel good after a long, stressful day.
GadgetMatch Reacts is a series where the GadgetMatch team from all over the world pool together to share their love, hate, and other commentaries about the show they’re currently raving.
Entertainment
One Piece: Into the Grand Line unveils final trailer ahead of premiere
All 8 episodes dropping on Netflix this March 10
Netflix has revealed the final trailer for One Piece: Into the Grand Line, exactly one week before its March 10 premiere.
The clip opens with a monologue from Monkey D. Luffy, reminding the Straw Hat crew of how far they’ve come to make it to the gates of the legendary Grand Line.
He mentions that it is time for the pirates to see what’s in store for them in the legendary stretch of sea.
Of course, that’s the treasure they’re seeking albeit encountering bizarre islands, new enemies, and unpredictable danger.
The clip then again features the larger-than-life scale of Season 2, including the towering Red Line, giant whale Laboon, Little Garden’s dinosaurs, and the giant, Brogy.
For a brief moment, the protagonist is also shown in an encounter with Smoker. Tony Tony Chopper, shown in the official trailer, once again made a quick appearance.
Just as action-packed as previous trailers, this 1:44 clip then culminates with more combat. There’s Zoro defending the crew at Whisky Peak.
Wapol and his metal-transforming Munch-Munch powers was shown in the end against Monkey D. Luffy.
The entire trailer is also set to an upbeat remix of “Come Sail Away” in the background, continuing the excitement from Season 1.
All eight episodes of One Piece: Into the Grand Line will be made available by March 10.
Entertainment
ITZY’s YUNA is Infinix’s first ever global brand ambassador
Infinix is in with YUNA in the scene
Infinix is entering a new era — and the brand is bringing one of K-Pop’s most sought-after stars along the ride.
A first for Infinix
In line with the launch of the latest NOTE 60 series, Infinix has also named YUNA of ITZY as its very first Global Brand Ambassador. The company calls this a bold step forward for both innovation and style.
For the record, this is the first time Infinix has tapped a global ambassador — and the choice makes sense. YUNA is known for her confidence, vibrant energy, and unapologetic self-expression. These qualities align closely with Infinix’s “Joy Tech, Beyond Limits” philosophy.
In a statement, YUNA shared her excitement about the partnership. She said she’s looking forward to connecting with fans in a new way and creating meaningful stories together with the brand.
For Infinix, this collaboration is more than just a celebrity endorsement. It signals a shift in how the company wants to position itself globally — not just as a smartphone maker, but as a lifestyle tech brand for expressive, tech-savvy youth.
The more, the merrier
The partnership goes along the debut of the NOTE 60 Series, further fueling Infinix’s move toward a more premium smartphone experience.
Like YUNA, the NOTE 60 line also brings notable names in the table:
- Powered by Snapdragon from Qualcomm
- Design collaboration with Pininfarina
- Audio tuned with JBL
It’s a clear attempt that Infinix wanted to elevate both performance and design by blending in flagship-level specs, more refined aesthetics, and immersive sound altogether.
Infinix says this launch also marks its expansion into more premium international markets.
With YUNA as the face of the brand, the company hopes to strengthen its appeal among younger users who want both powerful hardware and a device that matches their personality.
Rather than focusing purely on specs, Infinix is leaning into storytelling — highlighting how technology can spark creativity, joy, and individuality.
With the NOTE 60 Series and YUNA front and center, Infinix appears ready to redefine its brand identity on a global scale.
I’m starting to think that cosmic horror is near-impossible to adapt to the big screen. Often, the point of this subgenre of horror is to showcase the unfathomable, a horror so unknowable that it’s impossible to describe. Now, for a medium that thrives on “show, don’t tell,” a full-length movie doesn’t seem like the best format for this type of horror. I’ve seen so many cosmic horror films, and a majority of them fail to land the satisfaction of a more traditional horror film.
Iron Lung, directed by and starring Markiplier, takes a stab at this elusively complex genre.
After the sudden disappearance of stars and planets in the universe, a lone space station explores a nearby moon to search for a way to save humanity. The catch is that the entire moon is covered in an ocean of blood. A convict, played by Markiplier, is tasked with exploring the moon in a one-man submersible, in exchange for his freedom.
Naturally, an ocean of blood isn’t the best place to be. The moon’s ocean hides mysteries and monsters beneath all the gore.
On the impossibility of cosmic horror
Though a movie is all about showing and not telling, Iron Lung navigates through these intricacies by not showing anything.
Because everything is just blood outside, the submarine needs a special camera that takes only grainy photos directly in front of the submersible. There’s always a sense of claustrophobic dread. What’s outside the submarine? What were those sounds? Did the camera really take a photo of something alive?
The film’s premise alone is a perfect source of horror. This is where cosmic horror thrives: on the questions, on the tiny sneak peeks of a monster lurking around the corner.
But, then again, this is also where the subgenre can paint itself into a corner. Eventually, audiences ask for more. They need to see and know the beast for real. Think Cloverfield, when the massive alien finally shows its face, or The Nun with… well, The Nun.
It’s an unwritten rule in horror films that the monster must make an appearance. It becomes a paradox for cosmic horror because the beast must also be unknowable.
When the beast finally shows up in Iron Lung, the audience never learns an understandable reason why it’s stalking the submarine. It’s not hungry, it doesn’t want revenge, and it doesn’t want to take over the world. It just is.
Is that a satisfying enough conclusion? If you’re a fan of cosmic horror, then it’s par for the course. However, if you’re more used to the more traditional horror film, it might leave you wanting more.
On madness
A mysterious monster isn’t the only thing that cosmic horror is known for. It’s also about madness and how the protagonist goes insane after seeing the unknown.
It’s apropos, then, that the convict starts hallucinating right after seeing a glimpse of the ocean’s beast. He starts to lose track of what’s real and what’s not.
In other movies, madness is an effective tool in subverting expectations and amplifying the horror. For example, in The Lighthouse, Winslow, the protagonist, also loses his sanity and questions reality. The film is all about this descent into madness and the questionable actions as a result from it. In Shutter Island, madness is a punchline, a plot twist that invites the audience to revisit the entire film and question their own perception.
Iron Lung, however, is neither a complete descent nor a plot twist. Rather, it’s a clear third act stemming from the convict’s encounter with the monster.
Since it’s clearly delineated in the third act, it’s hard to empathize with the convict’s plight. There’s a sense of vertigo moving from a creature feature into, in the convict’s own words, “alien shit” where you’re not sure of what’s real. Likewise, it’s not a plot twist either. You don’t reevaluate whether the entire movie was a hallucination.
Madness is understandably a major plot point of the original game that the movie is based on. However, its translation into film isn’t the smoothest. It’s both too short and too long.
But is it a good film?
Despite its struggle with the format, Iron Lung is still a spirited attempt at a one-room horror film. Markiplier melds into his role and doesn’t just showcase his on-screen YouTube personality.
The premise is, at once, frightening. It’s eerie and creepy. There is always a pervasive need to figure out what comes next. That’s pretty much what you want from a movie anyway. Yes, the ending might be polarizing, especially to those more used to the usual horror film, but the journey is still worth the price of admission.
And, at the very least, the film got me interested in watching Mark’s original playthroughs.
-
News5 days agoXiaomi 17 Ultra is now available outside China
-
Camera Walkthrough2 weeks agoOPPO Reno15 Pro: Camera Review
-
Cameras2 weeks agoOsmo Pocket 4 makes a surprising appearance in public
-
News2 weeks agoiPhone 17 Pro Max is somehow the most traded-in phone today
-
News2 weeks agoHUAWEI launches Mate X7, MatePad 11.5 S 2026, FreeClip 2
-
Events2 weeks agoCapcom to hold Resident Evil Requiem launch event in Jakarta
-
Gaming2 weeks agoPokémon FireRed and LeafGreen are coming to the Switch
-
Reviews5 days agoXiaomi Pad 8 review: Slab that slaps!



















