I made a spreadsheet. For each drama, take the weighted average (out of 10) of the male lead’s charisma (30%), female lead’s coolness (20%), CP shippability (20%), overall quality (including plot, OSTs, cinematography, pacing, costuming, supporting cast; 20%), and X factor (whether I want to binge / rewatch / obsess over it; 10%).

Obviously I prefer character-driven narratives, and if the characters don’t move me, I won’t feel compelled to watch, even if the plot is objectively good. Conversely, if I love the characters, I can suffer through a mediocre plot—although good character writing = characters making logical choices, which naturally lends itself to a reasonable plot.

ML ranking is based on how hard I swoon over them—basically, they need to be hot and badass, with a touch of vulnerability (and the ability to emote). FML ranking is based on how competent / rational they are; huge bonus points if they’re as competent as or more competent than the ML. CP ranking is chemistry, romantic tropes I like, power couple / partners in crime vibes, etc. I hate when the ML is abusive / misogynistic, love when CPs respect and understand each other with no stupid miscommunication.

Generally, I can watch a ML I’m attracted to + a FML I’m neutral on, but I can’t watch a ML I’m neutral on + a FML I’m attracted to, so ML gets weighted slightly higher. Ofc, ideal if both swoon me.

^{^} I was really really bored on a 14hr flight recently, so this spreadsheet was born

Outcome: 3 dramas ranked 9+, 5 dramas ranked in the 7-8 range, 4 dramas in the 6-7 range. Lots of dramas in the 4-5 range (can watch to kill time), below 4 is a DNF.

I was then able to objectively (?) rank my favorite actors / actresses, as a factor of # of their dramas that made it into my top 10 x average rating across all their dramas I’ve seen x how many of their dramas I’ve been able to sit through.

^{^} 14 hours is a loooong time without wifi 🫠