Not perfect but binge-worthy show.
First meeting these characters in TMPB, I actually liked them a lot more than the two leads there. But knowing this was a totally separate story, gave it a go once it was fully uploaded and translated here. What can I say, I like to binge watch. Though, absolutely beautiful costumes, CGI, and script. It got a 9 from me because it got off to (in my opinion) a slow start. I love the chemistry between the leads and the humor of practically every character. The main antagonist could have laid off on the “evil laughing” all the time as it was not convincing in the slightest. Wish there was a more rounded ending of our two leads as that seemed a bit rushed. But overall, I’m satisfied with this series and would recommend it to friends.Was this review helpful to you?
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Long awaited Dong Hua and Feng Jiu's love story
Just finish this drama and I am a bit disappointed with the last 10 ep, especially the ending. Maybe they don't have to make such a complicated plot such as Demon Elder's freedom will bring chaos to the world. From my observation, I don't think Miao Luo is a bad person because she never really wanted to fight Dong Hua, I can see it from the way she talk to him and she always says 'do you really want to fight me Dong Hua?' and one moment when the Bi Yi Bird Tribe try to use magical tool to reseal her, she said 'you really give me no choice'. And the last battle inside the Sanskrit Valley, she said 'don't forget who made me into a demon'. I can't help but to always remember Love and Redemption, and The Legend case (LOL).Actually, I can't stand the first part of the drama especially the mortal arc and the romance blooms a bit late because of the draggy plot. Even after the romance already there, there are still tons of misunderstanding ahead of them. I really loathe the misunderstanding on the last 5 ep. They should've just proceed with the wedding and make the final battle happen after the wedding, not before, let alone on the day of the wedding.
The thing that I like the most about this drama is the feeling this drama gave me, the familiarity. There are some character that is not the same with the Eternal Love cast. At first, I can't accept it but after a while, naturally I get used to them. Another thing that I love is the chemistry and the love story between Dong Hua and Feng Jiu and the way they portrait the characters, I never see them as Dilraba Dilmurat and Vengo Gao but they are indeed Dong Hua and Feng Jiu (if you know what I mean).
I won't be mad if the writer decided to make 56 episode only about the love story of Dong Hua and Feng Jiu. Just throw some conflict and I'll be happy just fine. Actually, because there are tons of xianxia drama that focus on Heavenly Realm and Demon Tribe (and the conflict about Demon King being the downfall of all living beings). it would've been better if the focus in Eternal Love of Dream is more on their love story. In other words, They should've only show us Dong Hua and Feng Jiu story from how they met, fell in love, build a family, and the ordinary conflict in a relationship (without cliché conflict such as doomsday for the living beings).
I'm a bit confused because in Eternal Love, Ye Hua and Mo Yuan seems to be on par with Dong Hua, but here in Eternal Love of Dream, it seems Ye Hua and Mo Yuan is useless. They never there on a big battle or problems. Seems like the only reliable person in Heavenly Realm is only Dong Hua. He never received help from other immortal, except Feng Jiu.
Anyway, what I don't like about this drama is the Mortal Arc and the Aranya's Dream Arc because the story of them two was too draggy, but I can stand Aranya's Dream Arc better than the Mortal Arc because of the happy moment and lovey dovey part of Dong Hua and Feng Jiu as Dijun and Imperial Princess of Qing Qiu not as a mortal who will not remember a thing after their trial on the Mortal Realm. Also, I don't like the unnecessary story of Ji heng, especially on the last ep when her part is really not necessary. Rather than giving us the closure of how Dong Hua and Feng Jiu were saved, the longer moment of Dong Hua and Gun Gun, and their happy family together, the writer waste almost 10 minutes on Ji Heng and Xiao Yan and only gave us the last 5 minutes to give an explanation about the continuation of Dong Hua family with Feng Jiu and Gun Gun. I really hate that. They should've made it into another episode of Dong Hua reunited with his family, give him his well deserved happiness, show us more of his happiness. The ending seems a bit rushed because of it. Such a shame..
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I love this series. The acting was excellent. The only this i didnt like about Bai Feng Jiu was that she lets misunderstandings get to her very easily. I get that she was very young and all that but she could just ask fir clarity instead of believing whatver seemed convenient to her. And i loved Dong Hua's expressions. I normally skip a lot of episodes when it comes to series this long but I couldn't bear to miss any episodes. It kept me at the edge of my seat. The only reservations i had was during the Dream of Aranya. The timing didnt make much sense for me. Was this review helpful to you?
Other than the leads, I think generally everyone else was okay, not exactly super fantastic, but definitely watchable. However there were one or two minor characters who really bothered me with their acting - I shall not name, but it was very painful to watch them on screen, hence I brought the acting down to a 9.0.
For the story line, I actually really love it. Like all Chinese fantasy dramas, it is dramatic, and I’m a sucker for that. It generally followed the flow of the novel, so I’m pretty satisfied with that. Some minor details changed here and there, but don’t let it bother you. The story is actually rather intense, but there were many light-hearted moments too, so it balances out pretty well. Don’t worry! It’s not really a show that will drive you to the wall (like palace dramas haha), so just relax and enjoy everything.
The music was good. I personally enjoyed it. But you know, having heard TMOPB’s iconic ending song for so many times, I couldn’t help but expect an OST that would shake the charts. There wasn’t any that was up to that level unfortunately, but that’s alright! The music is still enjoyable nonetheless, shoutout to Zhang Bichen!
Now I’ll briefly talk about the production of the show. Like many others, I’ve watched TMPOB and I had high expectations for ELOD, since it was a so-called sequel to that. But I was disappointed with the production of the show. When I look back, everything felt rushed. It wasn’t the story that was rushed (ok other than the last few episodes which literally flew by so quick... they could’ve taken it slower!!!), it was the production value. Filming was quite sloppy - very often the camera was shaky. CGI was also awkward, but then again that’s Chinese fantasy dramas for you - we can’t expect Hollywood CGI or something. I guess this is actually a pretty minor point, but just wanted to point it out.
Overall, this show was definitely fun and didn’t disappoint me at all. Other than the production value, I think everything was amazing. Now would in watch this again? Definitely, but not all parts. I still go back occasionally to rewatch some cute scenes between the leads. It’s really enjoyable, I cannot help but want to watch it over and over again. I might be a little biased because I absolutely adore the DongFeng couple, but I really really hope I can convince you to give this show a shot.
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Great Overall But…
Generally, I don’t have much to complain about Eternal Love Of Dream. It is a highly watchable production. The CGI is better than many xianxia dramas and the interaction between Dong Hua and the fox feels real. All the characters look good in their beautiful costumes and it is obvious that this is a big budget project. The most important factor is, of course, the chemistry between Vengo Gao and Dilraba Dilmurat. I dare say that without that chemistry, The Pillow Book might indeed make us all fall asleep as we follow their story.Acting
After watching Vengo Gao as Dong Hua in Eternal Love Ten Miles Of Peach Blossoms and again in Eternal Love Of Dream, I think viewers would not be able to picture any other actor in this role. He completely nailed it to give the character the required aloofness and an aura of seniority and reverence. Dong Hua is not an excitable immortal but calm and rational. He doesn’t make a lot of movements when he talks but Vengo Gao’s expressive eyes and micro facial expressions make Dong Hua a pleasure to watch. He looks so different here compared to his role in Legend Of Fuyao.
On the other hand, Feng Jiu is a complete opposite. She is young and innocent. She dares to love and is full of life. Dilraba Dilmurat’s portrayal is spot on to give the character a level of innocence and that suits her age and lovestruck demeanor. Hence, when the 2 opposite characters interact, the chemistry is palpable due to their great portrayal of their roles.
Plot
Unlike Ten Miles Of Peach Blossoms and Love And Destiny, The Pillow Book’s story is more abstract. For some dramas, you will know what is going on even if you don’t understand Mandarin. But for Eternal Love Of Dream, you will need to listen or read the subtitles carefully to follow the story. It can get confusing especially during the Aranya’s Dream part.
Overall, the plot outline is nothing new. It is not as unique as another popular xianxia drama, The Untamed. Basically, it is about the hero using all his cultivation powers to defeat a Demon Ruler while falling in love with the heroine and trying to protect her in his own way.
Perhaps the first part is refreshing when they start off their relationship as master and pet fox. But once we get through that, the romance is kind of predictable with unrequited love in the beginning. What saves it is, as mentioned, the chemistry and unique dynamics of the couple. Many dramas are saved from being mediocre or even unwatchable this way such as Under The Power and Love Of Thousand Years.
My Verdict
Eternal Love Of Dream is a great drama and you should watch it. But certain parts can be a bore. I think one of the problems is the beginning of the romance and the couple’s time in the mortal realm mirror the story in Ten Miles Of Peach Blossoms. The difference is they have lengthen their interactions and change a bit of the story here and there in Eternal Love Of Dream. But the gist of it remains the same. So, if you have watched Ye Hua and Bai Qian’s story, you will know what Feng Jiu will eventually do to Dong Hua in the mortal realm. That is why some people would suggest we start watching from Episode 21 which is the tail end of their time in the mortal world.
Personally, I also find the story in Eternal Love Of Dream to be less compelling compared to Ten Miles Of Peach Blossoms. It doesn’t move me as much emotionally. In Ye Hua and Bai Qian’s story, there is much more angst and pain. Hence, you would feel more for the couple. The story is also more straightforward and flows better. In Dong Hua and Feng Jiu’s story, there is a vague feeling of being sidetracked at times especially during their time in the dream world.
Having said that, I would still recommend a watch for this Eternal Love Of Dream review. In fact, some people would prefer this to Ten Miles Of Peach Blossoms. The bottom line is the relationship dynamics of both couples are different. If you like a more serious tone to your romance, then Ten Miles Of Peach Blossoms should be the preferred choice. But if you like a sweeter and cuter couple, then Eternal Love Of Dream would beat the earlier drama hands down.
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Great actors, too many story twists
I started watching this show, and I was amazed by the actors, costumes, and interior, design, everything. And then the mess begins... First, she loves him deeply just because he saved her, and falls for him like crazy...Then we have her for several episodes being a fox,
then she goes to save him in a mortal world,
then he goes after her and they end up in Aranya's dream
then they finally get together, but that does not last long, and he stood her up for a day wedding because someone blackmailed him...
In the end, they almost die, but they are together and have a son, happy ending, but half of the episodes are not watchable.
FL and ML did an amazing job. So did the rest of the actors. Would love to see more of the second couple.
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One of my favorites!
Yes, they told Fengjiu and Hua Dijon’s story differently in the first one compared to this drama. But I still LOVE both shows and both tellings of their love story! I like this story of them the best because it goes into more detail of their love. I am not going to go into detail on the show. You just have to watch it!Story - love Love LOVE this story! It follows Three Lives, Three Worlds of the main leads. And yes it is just that…three lives they have in three worlds. Fengjiu is in love with Hua Dijon after he saves her. She “helps” him in different worlds and he later realizes just how much she has done for him and falls in love with her. I love to watch Hua Dijun go from a sort of cold and indifferent persons to a warm and loving husband! Melts your heart!
The ending is perfect. Thank goodness! I love a happy ending! If it is sad I don’t watch it. Haha. This drama has all the emotions. I love that! Tells me it is great story telling when it hits them all!
Acting/Cast - Dilraba is an amazing actress! She is my all time favorite. She does not disappoint me in this drama or the first one. Gao Weiguang is also really good! They both made this show perfect!
Music - love the music. Hoping to own the soundtrack some day. It is beautiful music.
Rewatch - always and anytime I can! Worth watching! Don’t judge it with Eternal Love (Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms) telling of them. Just watch it! It is really good. It is a different spin on their story compared to the first show.
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I knew I was going to love this drama because after TMOPB, I literally binged watched all of Dilireba's costume dramas! So I was immediately excited when they announced they were doing a sequel with our favorite leads. Just to preface, I have never read the novels for this story. But overall, I enjoyed this drama. I enjoyed the song that Dilireba sang too! There are three arcs for our leads. BFJ as a fox lingering in Early Dawn palace following around DH. BFJ and DH goes to the mortal realm (I thought that part was SOOO long), and lastly BFJ and DH end up in a A'lanrou's dream. Each one tests their relationships and you watch as their relationship blossoms. In TMOPB you only see parts of the first two arcs, but this one dives more into details and shows more (of course). I did think that the last two episodes were VERY rushed, as it was their wedding date and of course DH had to go save the world. FJ misunderstands and leaves and goes lives in the mortal realm with their kid for three years. She comes back to Nine Heavens because Ye Qingti is about to be revived and magically they make up. Although, I was feeling MEH ending, I did love the acting and chemistry between Dilireba and Vengo. I'm sure because they were part of Jaywalk studios they have acted with each other before, their chemistry was sizzling. I was so excited with DJ finally falls for FJ, and he just loves on her. Apparently, there's rumors that they're even dating.
A lot of people have mentioned that Angel Liu (Ji Heng) bought the rights to this drama, and wanted to be FJ but faced backlash so they kind of re-wrote the drama for her as Ji Heng and gave her more screen time (we didn't ask for that). Her character was annoying, but she wasn't the psycho lover like Su Jin. It seemed like they wanted to make her villainous, but kind of watered it down or got bored w/ it. This drama actually lacks a Su Jin if it makes you feel better. No one really plotted heavily against our FJ, or took her eyes.
They did mix up our cast a little. We got one Yang Mi cameo (it was meh!). Zhe Yan and our 4th Uncle have transformed into beautiful young male leads - although it was different, I liked it! I liked that they brought back some of the original characters such as 3rd Prince Song Lian, Si Ming and the Bai Family. I wish they showed more of the other realms, as in TMOBP they showed other realms like the Eastern Sea family and more gods and goddesses. Another thing was was funny was Wayne Liu's character, as he did have a role in TMOPB. He was re-casted as a demon lord, Yan Chiwu. Yan Chiwu was probably one of my favorite side characters, and makes references to his "twin" brother who was Mo Yuan's 16th disciple. It would have been funny if he bumped into his twin XD --- But did anyone remember that in TMOPB the demon princess's name was also YAN Zhi, so they share the same surname. Anyways.....
Overall, this drama was good. It wasn't as good in terms of drama and seeing the love build up as TMOPB. The trials that DJ and FJ went through didn't really hit me as hard as TMOPB. I just thought that BQ and YH went through way more compared to DJ and FJ. And maybe it falls on FJ's personality, she was always naive and kiddy-like. I felt even when she had her kid, she didn't truly mature. And maybe if they didn't white-wash the roles, it would have been more "drama." I mean, they could have done more with Zhi He's character (did they forget she was evil b*tch in Ashes of Love)? But, I understand they did re-write this script to give more screen time to Angel Liu. Maybe there's an original script out there, that could have done 100% better and give us angsty/heartbreak drama that we all wanted.
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I probably will have to rewatch because the story was boring for me in the first few episodes but it picked up when Dong Hua went to the mortal world which makes up for the first few episodes. The visual fantasy was amazing. It seemed real to me. More action in this one than the first season. The ending was terrific! I could write more about this but I won't. This is a great watch.
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Thoroughly enjoyed this...
This drama is not a continuation to Ten Mile Peach Blossom although many of the key characters in the former series are either mentioned or re-featured. You can watch this series on its own without watching the former. It is more of a romantic comedy and more light-hearted compared to the Ten Mile Peach Blossom. There are more romantic and comical scenes while Ten Mile has more intense battle and gut-wrenching scenes. The witty verbal exchanges are hilarious. And the scenes when DiJun is teasing and flirting with FengJiu are amusing. However, you probably need to have a good command of Mandarin to appreciate it - from the English subtitles, I suspect much is lost.It has its own moment of suspense, making you wonder what is going to happen next and it did keep me glued to YouTube and myasiantv.io especially towards the second half. If you are a romantic, you will enjoy this. Dil and Gao had 'come out of age' to convincingly play the lead roles in this drama with only a short awkward appearance by Yang Mi and none by Mark Chao.
The initial 10 scenes are a little slow but comical, and almost look like a repeat of Ten Mile Peach Blossom with FengJiu's attempt to make it to DiJun's palace to serve him and the rivalry between FengJiu and ZhiHe was boring. It would be better if the duration of an episode or two were trimmed from the initial 10 episodes - they feel like time fillers. However, the story deviates. Once you get past these, you will start to enjoy it.
Like most dramas, it has its weaknesses in the story - a lot of the plot was based on FengJiu's distrust of DiJun - almost to the extend she looked like a self-pitying fool. For a plucky and mischievous girl, she suddenly became a fool when it came to matters of the heart. A lot of the gut-wrenching scenes become unconvincing and comical as they are more of self-pitying based on some imagination she was unloved and that DiJun loved someone else.
Dil is ravishingly beautiful as FengJiu and Gao is dashingly handsome as DiJun with the white hair and purple/white robes. Good looking leads are often key success factors for a drama or movie.
We all like a happy ending - I certainly do - I watch drama to enjoy it not sadden by it and I avoid tragedies. I always check that before I start any drama these days after suffering a few sad days with some other tragedies.
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