The only thing this story could have done better is the character of the female lead. I know she is supposed to be ditzy and naive and the embodiment of a flower but I wish she had been more powerful and more independent. It’s really hard for me to get attached to such a helpless and dumb girl. I know it seems to make it more romantic and interesting for the drama if the female lead is a dumb girl that has to be protected all the time and feminism is frowned upon in Asia but we like smart female leads who can kick butt too.
The music from this show is really nice. It’s always icing on the cake when the music is pretty. I immediately have to have it on my phone. I feel like modern dramas now a days don’t focus too much on music but we always notice if the music is good or not.
The actors, especially the Phoenix were all attractive. Jin Mi was really pretty and Feng Hua was gorgeous. So gorgeous! And when Run Yu and Sui He weren’t maniacal, they were pretty too.
Finally, this is the kind of plot that always pulls me in starting from the summary. A girl who has either secretly belongs to some royal dynasty, or inherited some powers, or was the child of some power couple, that she has no idea about. That kinda story is my favorite.
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one of the best xianxia dramas out there
just rewatched the entire series again and the iconic parts still hit so hard. i grew up watching many dramas with a similar concept but ashes of love really is unique and worth watching compared to all other xianxia dramas. i think back to this drama a lot, even in day to day life.although lowkey basic, the storyline is still very good. there are parts that may seem pointless to you at the start but they all seem to have a purpose as you continue to watch it. e.g the character that jinmi helped to translate for xufeng who appeared again later on and the words of that woman who helped to revive jin mi's friend (those of you who watched will know the significance). i have not given the story a higher rating than 9 due to the clearly boring and useless story between that princess and the guy who keeps making arrows. they add nothing to the story and their acting very much sucks.
yang zi, deng lun and luo yunxi are overall almost perfect for their roles. to me, yang zi is one of the few actresses who don't make innocent characters seem like utter idiots and cowards. i do find her character cute. however, i do want to be picky as deng lun is a little emotionless at points but it doesn't affect his overall performance too much. as i said before, the princess mu ci aren't good at acting (in my opinion) so the score of 9 mainly is given because of them.
the music is very almost spot on. the way it comes in at just the right parts - they have done an amazing job with the production ! taken off 0.5 points because the outro may be a little scary and weird to listen to at first. however, i think most people get used to it and start to appreciate it after watching the drama.
as i said before, i have decided to write this review because i just rewatched it. it is definitely worth watching AND rewatching. the cgi, production and acting easily makes this one of my all time favourite dramas. i really do think it was the best drama of 2018.
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This review may contain spoilers
There’s a lot of fun characters in the series. Two characters I enjoyed the most was FML and 2ML. The storyline of love triangle wasn’t was cliche as I thought it would be. There were a few times when I was surprised at the plot but my experience in xianxia genre is limited. Some of the situations that happened in the series felt like a disservice for not exploring more (ie Kuang Lu with Run Yu, what happened to the Heavenly Rule? What did Puchi end up doing and Moon Immortal? Puchi and Sui He? Puchi and FML’s childhood friend? Head Flower lady and the carrot? Limited scenes with 2nd couple that not fully fleshed out - their love story just kept going back and forth. More character growth with Sui He? Why did the fervor of RunYu for Ji Min suddenly dissipate? I did enjoy how you found out some of these character’s motives but I wish I saw more depth and exploration there.
In terms of romance, they are cute together but this show had more angst overall. Im not sure the two had good understandings or interactions when it came to misunderstandings with each other. Im also not a big fan of ML’s lack of accountability - seems to serve himself more than seeing from her perspective (never really found out her father’s killer, interrupting her wedding, hurting her wen he’s hurt, death bed promise but doesn’t eat the flower, etc). This series definitely has more tragedy. Ji Min is great. She had complexity, kindness, and foresight to see a lot of things. Not reciporcating RunYu's emotions, steadiness in paying ppl back. Having a lot of restraint in her love trial and love with Xufeng- however Im not a fan of her suffering so deeply for love. I was rooting for RunYu even tho he does questionable acts. I think in many ways so does Xufeng (wtf how dare you kiss her drunkenly and call out another woman’s name? How dare you cozy up to Sui He when the women you claim is the only one you’re crazy about is hurting? How dare you use her love for you to show another girl) but it’s ok cause Ji Min loves him. That’s problematic. I liked seeing the different way in which RunYu loved her. He knew of their transgressions but still kept at her, in his own way, by repairing the pellet. By manipulating the situation. It makes sense. Xufeng's gotten everything in life so I understand why RunYu is more subtle and machinations. I do think if he had been more honest, more earnest, things may have been different. Xufeng had intensity. He does sweetness incredibly well but unrealistic in his position to demand his mom/Sui He not interfere with Ji Min, but no real repercussions or understanding until the end about how tyrannical his parents were/people in power. In many ways hes still so naive and darker than RunYu cause RunYu has years of suffering. I did like the costume and some of the set pieces/cgi was interesting. Music is beautiful. I’d rate this a 6/10. I dont think I would rewatch the series tho.
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Before watching this drama, I was never into these types of dramas (fantasy, historical, etc) because I never found the costumes, hair or setting looked good but Ashes of Love proved me wrong. After watching it, I can't seem to stop trying to find a drama that even comes close to this one. I loved the story and how it sucked you in right from the beginning, unlike most dramas where it takes time to really get into it. At first, it seems to be a light-hearted story but as the drama progresses, your emotions will be all over the place; one moment you would feel happy, the next moment, you would feel angsty then sad but I loved that about this drama. I also really enjoyed the development of all the characters, especially with Jin Mi. The CGI and costumes were all so beautiful and matched perfectly with the characters. I truly can't move past this drama. I tried watching other dramas after this one and nothing can compare to this.
Acting
Deng Lun is one of my favorite actors and his acting in this drama was amazing. You could feel the chemistry between Xu Feng and Jin Mi through the screen. They truly portrayed how strong love is which can beat faith or destiny. I really hope to see them together in another drama. Usually, in other dramas, I would stop watching them because the acting in romantic scenes would be too cringy for me to continue but the romance features in this was done so well. It wasn't over the top which had to do with the naiveness of Jin Mi in the beginning. Since most FL in dramas would act too cute to the point it feels unnatural and looks cringy with the ML, this was different since Jin Mi was immune to the feeling love, in the beginning, the actions of love she showed towards XF were subtle and because of this, the romance was perfect. This was refreshing to watch and new. I found it cute that she had captured Xu Feng's attention right from the beginning without her knowledge. Yang Zi was able to really bring out the naivety of Jin Mi and portrayed it so well. When Xu Feng went "dark", Deng Lun really captured both sides (good and evil) really well like the yin and yang. The overall cast was amazing; they really brought out the different elements and genres of this drama; from comedy to romance. I've seen some behind the scenes clips of DL and YZ and damn, their chemistry off camera is just as amazing; the teasing between the two is so cute.
Music
The soundtrack for this drama was amazing and sounded so good. Emotional as well. I was surprised to see that one of the songs was sung by the two main leads.
Rewatch Value
I would 100% say this is definitely a show worth rewatching and I've already done so! I've been trying to find the perfect drama and was actually hesitant about this one in the beginning but I'm so glad I gave this a chance. I would definitely always make time to watch this drama.
Overall
HIGHLY recommend for everyone! Definitely my favorite drama of all time. Nothing can beat this. It has such a heartbreaking but beautiful story and the acting is amazing. Ashes of Love includes literally everything a perfect show needs; from the story to the soundtrack. The CGI in this drama is so captivating. Be aware though, you might stay up all night watching this and trying to finish it. I personally find it so hard to put my phone down once I start watching the first episode.
An added bonus: Deng Lun who is so swoon-worthy.
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The costume, the acting , the casts , the production i love all
I love the way it makes me laugh at first and also make me cry so much.
My two favorite dramas that make me feel so much are Eternal Love and Ashes of love.
For eternal love, i found it really boring to watch the first maybe about 10epi.
The similarity between those two dramas that make me touch so much us
I really love the way male lead treats the female lead. They sacrifice many things for the female leads. I really loves that.
I recommand those who love the sacrifice love and fantasy drama as i do then i strongly recommend to watch this drama This drama will make you cry.
I love the scenes that make me cry 😢
Now i am waiting for Love and redemption. Cuz I feels that it will also show really deep love between the main leads after waiting the trailer.
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This review may contain spoilers
Ashes of love is one of the most enchanting love story. Watched this makes my feeling quite roller coaster along with the story line. I'm not too agree with the summary given by MDL. For me night deity / Run Yu (RY) intentions toward Jin Mi (JM) is not only for use her against fire deity / Xu Feng (XF). He is really in love with JM. Yes unfortunately he also use JM to against XF, but that's not his first intention.
This drama gives us love will happen whatever obstruct it from happening. In this drama, of course, the unfeeling pill. Unfeeling pill only make the love more hurtful then it supposed to be.
This drama divided into 2 phase. Before and after unfeeling pill. That's why they climax also 2 times. 1st part is the happy part and the 2nd part is the disaster & sad part. Really can't hold my tears in the 2nd part....
What most sad is the first climax part where JM killed XF. I have to fast it forward, really can't stand to watch it. And when XF betrayed JM with Sui He (SH)
I don't know who to give the trophy of stupid love to: the nominee are Kuang Lu (KL) with unreturned love toward RY, RY crazy love for JM and SH stupid love toward XF. Although i never understand the reason why SH have to killed JM father.
Agreed with missnymeria, the mortal realm part very interesting and everything in the drama made me care about every single character. Like Mu Ci and Princess Bian Cheng, KL feeling toward RY.
Love the ending where we given view of JM and XF live after they get together. Admired RY, in the end he can understand the mistake and stupidity of his own.
Re-watch: love to re-watch, but can't stand the middle part. Too sad...
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This review may contain spoilers
Wow! Utterly awful yet brilliant at the same time
Wow! What an intense roller coaster of a ride! Not a story for the faint hearted or when you’re feeling down as there are so many utterly heartbreaking and angsty moments.I hated this story as it was so tragic with lots of character deaths that upset me with their poignancy (OK so the heavenly empress was an absolutely horrible person and all I wanted was for her to just crawl back under her rock and die which finally she did) and sad plot lines. However this was also the reason that I loved this story. There were so many twists and turns that took my breath away.
The acting was incredible and the whole cast was perfect for the role they played. I loved Luo Yunxi’s character, so tragic and compelling. Yang Zi acted incredibly as she grew from completely silly air head (think most of Ester Yu’s sickly sweet characters and you’ll be close) to a woman with the weight of the world on her shoulders who flip flopped between the two brothers. I’d not seen Deng Lun in anything before and it’s so sad that he left the industry due to tax evasion as I loved him in this. His sobbing at the end practically broke me. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
There only seemed to be a couple of songs (but very haunting and definite ear worms) throughout the whole drama which was a bit weird as no expense was spared on the costumes, sets and CGI. The other frustration that I had was the floppy wig they gave Xu Feng as it fell all over his face in such a way as to detract from his beauty and acting.
Would I watch again? Probably not as it was so intense I’m not sure I’m strong enough to watch it twice!
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I wish it were longer and so I’m excited about the sequel coming up. My only criticism is that I would like to see a little more development and epilogue at the end.
First time for me for Lun Deng and Yang Zi and I will now follow both their careers and watch other dramas with them. I’ll excited to see more of Mr. Puchi. He was so adorable.
I’m re watching it now immediately after seeing it the first time that is how amazing it is.
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The tragedies surprised me and was brilliantly done and delivered.
I love Yang Zi and Deng Lun's chemistry. They are good friends in RL and it shows in their character's interactions. I am not sure if ad libs are allowed in Chinese series, as I would have a reaction to a scene where I feel the character should have said something but was not voiced. Could be the translation as it seems to change every time I watch it.
I loved the songs as well even before knowing that Yang Zi and Deng Lun sang their version of it. I can't speak Chinese so I just hum to them.
One thing I'd like to comment on are the kissing scenes. I guess they need to be tame for Chinese standards but just touching lips don't convey passion for me. Lovers should have more passion than what is considered a prolonged "hello" and "good-bye" kiss. The female characters should be able to reciprocate that passion to their male counterparts.
Need to book another few days to rewatch it again for the 4th time.
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This review may contain spoilers
Remove Either of the 3 Actors or Characters, this show wouldn't be as EPIC as it Is.
To their Credit.One of the BEST and Real CGI.
**Yangzi pulled off JM with a Nuance very less actors have. Otherwise JM comes across as Stupid. I blame the editors for cutting off her emotional Crying scenes, one should have a look at BTS to know instead of blaming her the weakest, when infact she was the Strongest in understanding JM's arc. HATS off to her.
** Denglun's Portrayl of XF made him Live a Life beyond the original Novel HSALF, which is commendable, he was equal parts adorable and Powerful. I just wish the screewriters showed his PROUD Part MORE. And His Emotional Scenes, If not Him I do not know who could have made us Realize that XF was not a Brat but A man who Lived Cried Laughed and Died for LOVE!!
His Body Language is a very very powerful tool to potray how Xufeng Felt. This man had NO Dialoges unlike the SML but he made a Very Silent character LIVE Through ages and in everyone's memory.!!! HATS OFFFF.
**LeoLuo being the least popular of the 3 stood on his Own, Man the way he lived RY is what made XF/JM especially XF epic. HE made us Love and Loathe RY. And the way he switched to YY character for 10 mn it was Commendable. He was a Great Opposition to Denglun's XF who himself is a very vERY Strong Actor.
+Illogical Plots.+
1.XF and everyone knew SH had Fire Magic , why did no one Suspect Her of using LJ early on?
2. JM did not get Love but She acted without Reasoning, Plain Dumb.
3. XF/JM's Baby is a waterbird not IcePhoenix?
#Spoilerish for those who are confused.
1.a) JM loved XF before The Mortal World Arc, She felt Pain starting Right From When he saved Her from Qiongqi then Their First Kiss, She almost even Fainted when XF was asked to Leave Flower Relam and Told her Camoflauge Self that they Will NEVER MEET. So for those who say Fox Fairy/Moon God Tipped the scales on XF's side by tying Saint and King Yi with Red thread of Fate are Misinformed.JM even with the Pellet Loved Phoenix enough that even after Powerful Insertion and Repair It Cracked not once but Twice!!
1.b) Phoenix Tree Sprouted because JM consumed ZONGZI filled with XF's Spiritual Energy, it dies when either one does , it sprouts back when Both are Alive.
1.c) JM had no feelings for RY whatsoever beyond acquaintance or PITY from like day 1, her best friend or close friend was Puchi Jun and any womanly feeling or emotion was always towards Phoenix, so to say she would have been happy and in love with RY eventually nope she couldn't. She was a Cold Hearted Body, only a Warmth fire could melt here.
2. It is Wrong to Blame RY for XF's Murder because it was JM's Recklessness and Impulsiveness that Killed Him.He manipulated she Acted.RY had a 20% chances of winning that day, Had JM not stabbed XF , RY would have been Killed or lost his Powers at Liuli Jinguo's Mercy.
3.XF will always be a better man than RY HE Loves Openly He Kills Openly Unlike RY who manipulates then Plays Dumb just to be a Pitful Surviver.
3.1 XF was holding his hand while he stared the wedding gown of JM after her death, because that's was the place rabbit JM bit him. XF just wanted a semblance to remember that JM did come and really did LOVE him. It was his eternal Hell and Heaven at one place. AGAIN Body Language DL rocks there.
3.2 XF punishment for RY was live a life holding the Heavens like he wanted. RY's point always has been he was victimized and got nothing, Heaven was something he Won , so XF refused to take it away, RY may still not get the point , but no matter how much of a devil drama XF was he would not have killed RY.
3.3 XF never returned to Snatch JM back, she killed him said she never loved him, So he gave a free pass , it was JM who kept coming back , it wrong to blame him there for coveting the Fake Queen Of heaven when she herself had no feelings for thr King of Heaven.
4.For RY those who actually Love him are taken for granted whether its his Own Mother, Brother or Assistant, as Power,Pity or Obligation. He never understands Love hence He keeps on Miscalculating the Love Between Phoenix and His Grapes.That was his Eternal Doom.
5.RY was never as Powerful as XF no matter what he did, hence he either made JM ellimanate him, CUT OFF his Diety Status, never attacked him in Heavens but challenged him when he was a Mortal and Also Consumes the Evil Qiongqi to Kill Him.NEVER EVER was he more Physically or Magically Stronger than XF.
6. XF needed a Reality Check , because he literally walked on Heavenly Air, He took his Parents as the Law however Corrupt they were.RY was right to show Him the Mirror. Tiandi and Tianhou deserved that.
7. Tuyao was not Always a Villian, she became overly possesive of her Power after Her Legitimate Husband started Wandering around Women for Pleasure and Power. The Lady gave up her Love , Tribe and Sacrificed her Dignity for Taiwei and He just did not care, she bit back and Made Havoc in everyone's Life.
8. HOW is XF Taiwei's Son when he is more Like Lianchao Puzzles me. I think the writer left it up to imagination.
9.Tangyue is not Half Immortal Half Mortal, He is a Water Bird Bailu, He is entirely Immortal because JM got the Spiritual Power given again by XF at the end of the Love Doom which made her IMmortal Shuishen again then he was born.
10.JM was the only character who never had Free Will uptil episode 50, others Loved hated manipulated with their entire head and heart in right place, that is why she acts the way she did. But that does not explain why 2 evidences made her End her Love into Ashes.
11. Moon God and Puchi Jun are the Most Loveable Character in this Universe . Period.
12. Mozun and Frost Flower Mutually Cultivated in Yujiang Place that scene was blurred out ,ONE HAS to Listen to JM's Monologue to understand the Level of Intimacy she compares SH with, She already saw XF SH kiss once , the intimacy here indicated Physical Intimacy.
13. When XF threw the Great Phoenix Feather ala Fengling at JM as an attack at the Jiu Yung Cave, it acts as a Shield on Her because Fengling is A part of XF , it senses his Real Intentions and Love so It protected JM from the attack, throughout the show it Keeps on Growing in Size sensing the danger equivalency. Hence XF's dialog Even You Betrayed me.
14. Mozun Sprout Blood when JM destroyes the Frost Petal is because it got integrated in His soul, That Petal has His essence attached to it, The destruction made him bleed.
15. The most pitful end was probably faced by Liuying, she never got her husband back for resurrection. Hope she got a HEA somewhere.
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