Fortunately its charm outweighs its clumsiness.
Any writer can only bow their heads in the face of a good plot. Even when that plot is a contortionist that twists itself up in knots so convoluted that it frequently farts in its own face. Look, it’s not that the plot isn’t riddled with holes, like a machine gun just ploughed through it. It’s rather that the resilience, ingenuity and convenient co-incidences just keep on coming—relentlessly. The stakes gradually climb higher and higher and the twists keep pace. Until the last few episodes that is. It needed a better run to the finish line, but I’ll forgive it that, it had provided much along the way. The outlandish is at such a delicious level that it is impossible to look away. Your mouth simply drops open to consume the next morsel. Expect the ridiculous and you won’t ever be disappointed.If the overall plot was good, the structure and flow of it was lacking. The story really comprises two parts. Set in different places with different characters and could easily have been split into two series. Whilst the connection between them was tied up by the end it was not the most satisfying experience and the set up was in anticipation of a continuing story. A viewers interest in a character is directly proportional to the screen time it gets, and when they are not seen for long stretches they begin to seem increasingly irrelevant. Some characters were on very long leashes and I was left wondering where the hell they were and what were they doing in the gaps. There was an annoying sense of convenience at times.
The drama comes complete with a wonderful set of unlikely characters . A hero whose life everyone (friend and foe alike) ends up saving at some point. He jolts along like a rumbling coach magically acquiring fighting skills/powers and poisons, all whilst keeping his clothes pristine. Swoon-worthy side kicks abound, of particular note is Uncle Wu Zhu (Tong Meng Chi) and The Second Prince (Liu Duan Dan) and there are plenty of older examples for the more mature amongst us. Caught up in the abundance of flying, floating, fighting men/women (like half the population), there’s a sibling to Darth Vader who can take on a thousand and win, and who was so incognito he didn’t even appear in the cast list. Plus a wheelchair that surely should have been made of light, comfortable, flexible bamboo, not solid oak. Really, the props department let us down there. And I am thinking Wu Gang must have had bruised buttock bones for most of the shoot.
Sadly, however, I can’t say that the female characters were much to write home about, aside that is from the delightful Haitang Duo Duo (Xin Zhi Lei). Be prepared for a female lead that can compete with a wet weekend and come out top, a sister who is very determined and totally ineffectual and an evil princess whose only redeeming feature was her headdresses.
To be honest the connection to the “otherworld” didn’t really work for me. I found it unnecessary and so infrequently referenced that when it did become important it stuck out like a business suit at a hanbok party.
Is it the most sophisticated, clever drama that I have ever seen? Well, no… Is it rollicking good fun, a hearty meal and a laugh with friends? You betcha!
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All time favorite drama
There is absolutely no fault with this show. The casting is amazing, the storyline is top tier, and the martial arts is really good. My favorite is all the layers that are unwrapped as the show goes on. I was totally invested starting episode 3 (1-2 is more or less backstory) and am really glad to watch this, cant wait for season 2. Another thing is that the drama was not like stone cold humorless, it had the comedic scenes thrown in while mixing with the serious plot line.If your looking for a wuxia/palace type drama blend with a deep plot and witty humor thrown in with fantastic scenes, you have to watch this.
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Far from being the best-looking actor, Zhang Ruo Yun has enough comedic chops and charisma to be the leading man Fan Xian. Now Fan Xian is extremely smart but he is no Gary Stu. He makes mistakes and is not afraid to look silly. He has no real drive and ambition but makes up for it with curiosity and candor. He’s also shamelessly modern. I like watching him throw other characters off balance with his modern attitude and sensibilities. This is a satire of those stuffy historical dramas, much in the same vein as TVB’s “A Step into the Past,” only more sophisticated.
Chen Dao Ming (my reason for picking up this show) does not disappoint. As the Qing emperor, he looks very humbled and more like a hermit than a ruler. Underneath all that is a shrewd and predatory man, a praying mantis lying in wait to strike its victims. That said, he’s still not the scariest guy in the series. The crown prince, played by Zhang Hao Wei, is a psycho with a pretty boy’s face. Wu Gang as Chen Ping Ping is unsettling in the best possible way. He reminds me of another genius actor, Christopher Walken.
Calvin Yu as Shen Zhong is the real star of the second half of the series. He’s cunning, cruel, and always ready to maim and kill at the drop of a hat. He’s also selfless and patriotic. If told from a different point of view, this complex man would be the hero of the story, not a villain.
If you ever get tired of all the politics, watch for the Fan family. They bring a lot of lightness, warmth, and humor to the show. Underneath their petty squabbles and dysfunctions, there is a love and support that many of us can relate to. The actors here carry themselves well, as do most of the cast. The only thing lacking at times is the emotional punch, especially in the romantic scenes.
The plot has many twists and turns, so much that it tied itself into knots. I don’t know if the writers can undo those knots in a realistic, believable way. We will see. I patiently await the sequels.
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Self-insert protagonist fulfills author's delusions in a questionably "intricate" plot
Given the rave reviews about its humor, characters, and political intrigue, I was *very* excited to start "Joy of Life." Unfortunately, for me, at least, it fell flat.The first reason comes from characterization. In a drama about political intrigue, the hidden motivations and personalities behind the characters are the key drivers behind the plot. While each character did have their distinct personality and motivations (more evident in the side characters such as Fan Sizhe), their actions and relationships didn't line up compellingly with their characters. Without believable characters, it's difficult for me (audience) to buy into almost any of the story.
Almost every female character, whether the ML's prisoner or a respected warrior from the enemy nation, ends up with "some romantic feelings, if not entanglement" for the ML, Fan Xian. Many times, there is no compelling reason *why*, and this ends of harming the depth of the female side characters. The more complex side characters, E.g. Qing Di or Chen Pingping, do have interesting schemes and politics. However, they fall into the cliche boxes that "strategic characters" in C-dramas usually do; they are endlessly ruthless to achieve some "not-yet-revealed, power-related" goal. Their lack of humanity make them one-dimensional and less compelling than similarly strategic protagonists such as Nie Huaisang, Jin Guangyao, Mei Changsu, Consort Jing, Xue Fangfei, etc. are. That is not to say there are no compelling characters in "Joy of Life"; Li Yunrui is a cliche evil-stepmother in a complex way, and Shen Zhong is an interesting break from the "silent, serious strategist" trope.
My biggest gripe lies with the main character, Fan Xian. He is a character with some talent in everything and the same, flippant sense of humor in almost every situation. He experiences character growth in scheme and intelligence often with no catalyst, never stops to reflect on anything (despite being portrayed as an "apotheosis of morality and justice for Teng Zijing" he kills his betrothed's brother and lies about it), participates in a romance warranted only by "love at first sight", and has no clear ambition (that ambition can be to be a regular person, even). These pitfalls mean the story has no arching, clear direction. The story is guided by the protagonist, and the protagonist needs to pick a lane— and stay there— to give the story a beginning and an end. To be clear, I am not against morally gray, complex protagonists— Fan Xian is just inconsistent and somewhat devoid of meaningful substance.
With that, my second problem lies with the writing. In a drama about political intrigue, there are few "symbolic" twists or moments that aren't just the "death of an antagonist" (because obviously, death is the only way to solve problems). There are few schemes with a broader purpose than "this person challenges my power/life and needs to die", which leave the char It is not like "Nirvana in Fire", where the revelation of certain information drives the plot forward by galvanizing character actions. The story seems to be complex but ends up coming off as "simplistic." Longer schemes, like Chen Pingping's, tend to be loose enough to come off as "afterthoughts".
That being said, these flaws are with the story, and given that the show is adapted from a novel—were likely inevitable. The acting and production itself is alright, though nothing to write home about. The script does have lighthearted and humorous characters (Wang Qinian, Fan Sizhe, etc.), but their characters end up becoming "one-trick ponies." The jokes are alright, but some of the puns (as a fluent Chinese speaker) are... so bad they're funny.
Anyhow, "Joy of Life" is definitely better than a lot of other attempts at a good revenge story that are being produced these days. Maybe it's time for me to go back an revisit "Nirvana in Fire."
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love love LOVE this drama~
Though my first watch-through of this drama was all the way back in 2020, even after all this time, it still remains one of my top Chinese dramas. I highly encourage everyone to give this drama a try because it's one of those dramas that has a little bit of everything: comedy, action, romance, political intrigue, mystery, time travel, etc. The characters are charming, the set design is beautiful, and the music and story direction are carefully planned and well-executed.What really pulled me into watching this drama though, was how well everything fit together. It seemed like the pieces just fit perfectly into the puzzle, with there being a reason behind every action, a motive for each character that stays consistent throughout each series. Though the mystery is complex and delicately layered, the plotline isn't hard to understand at all, with each episode pulling me deeper and deeper into the world of "Joy of Life."
There's a certain irreplaceably unique charm to this drama, and it is obvious how much love and care the story was crafted with. If you are thinking about watching JOL, do it! Give this excellent drama a chance and it will not waste your time.
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Don’t waste your time watching this drama
I watched this drama due to the high ratings and good reviews. But was greatly disappointed by it. Fan Xian, the male lead died in the end.But the dramas had plot holes which I wonder why reviewers didn’t point out yet rated it 10.
For example, the main lead Fan Xian... his life is so charmed. Every time he gets into trouble, someone powerful will come to rescue him in the nick of time. The Majesty will send his eunuch to send a decree to bail him out, the black knights will appear out of nowhere at the right moment to save the situation. His father will send his troops to protect him when he got cornered. It’s just so many coincidences in the drama making me feel baffled.
The story is biased towards the main lead as Fan Xian is the chosen to lead the next generation. Fan Xian is the chosen successor of Neiku (treasury) and Investigating Office. His backing is the emperor, the top powers like the prime minister, minister of revenue and head of the investigation office. Seems like he’s more powerful than the good-for-nothing crown prince and 2nd prince.
With lots of unexpected twists and turns in the plots in the later episodes, just make me feel that the drama is toying with the audience expectations. The story is not endearing at all.
Xiao Zhan (famed in The Untamed), his appearance is not as stunning as in The Untamed since he’s not the male lead. Looking at the unnatural curve on the lower curve of his eyes just made me wonder if he had plastic surgery.
Finally, the drama ended with Xiao Zhan stabbing Fan Xian and FX died. Duh.... and the story is not ending there.
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worth the rewatch; ready for S2
I first saw this show 2 years ago, when I first started watching Chinese dramas. At that time, I felt that it was one of the better shows I've seen in any language. Today, over 150 shows later, & about half of them costume dramas, I'm realizing Joy of Life S1 is probably one of the best shows I've seen in the last 3 years.This production has a very different feel to it from the regular diet of C-dramas. The dialogue is fast, smart, & funny, & the acting is superb. Few shows are able to create & sustain so much tension, with enough comic moments expertly executed to move the story along. Each character evolves with each scene as new information changes the way we see them, but rather than make everything dizzying or confusing, the story itself gradually comes to light. It's a complex puzzle but each move is closely examined. Deftly intertwined within the policital arc is the romantic development between the main character & his royally approved betrothed.
The story gets deeper as each character tries to outsmart the other, & it becomes a challenge to remember who knows what, like trying to keep several moves ahead of all players in a huge game of chess. Alliances form & change on the fly. But this is what kept me engaged in the story, moving along with Fan Xian as he discovers the secrets of his own identity, & as he grows from a sequestered village boy into the possible heir to the 2 (& possibly 3) most powerful organizations in the capital.
It's a story that's not about good vs evil, but about motivations. It's about the struggle for power while staying true to your principles & loyalites, or not. No character is one sided. Uncle Wu Zhu, the blind swordsman, has to be one of the coolest, badass characters of any martial arts show around. Invisible as a shadow, unmatched & unrecognized in his skill. He, too, has a secret forgotten past.
The story is so complex that I'm glad I decided to rewatch S1 in preparation for S2. I've picked up more details & gained a better understanding of all the characters, & even developed a new theory about Uncle Wu from all the clues I totally missed on 1st viewing, like when FanXian asks him in one scene, "Are you human?" I'm now ready for S2.
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A "joy" to watch
This is truly a joy to watch! The actors are amazing and so are the script/writers! I'm so glad I started watching this. The characters have layers and clear distinct traits that make them each unique. This series includes people of all types and I was pleased to see that a seemingly sadistic torturer had a kind & decent heart in regards to those close to him. The feels get you and you'll find yourself shedding tears of laughter and in sadness. If you want to see how amazing Zhang Ruo Yun's acting is, you should definitely see this. Zhao Zhen Ting plays Xie Bi'an is as interesting to me as his role as Jing Lin in another series where exudes that cool, calm and calculated aura that comes with skill. I love the mole on Zhang's nose! haha I know I'm so random, but you have to watch it! Also you get to see Xiao Zhan, Xin Zhi Lei, Tong Meng Shi , Wayne Wang, Zhao Zhen Ting and so many more fabulous actors perform!!! I look forward to season 2!!! Excellent job by all; thank y'all so much!!Was this review helpful to you?
A Masterpiece of Multifaceted Brilliance
"Joy of Life" stands tall as a monumental achievement in the world of television dramas, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers around the globe. This series is not just a drama; it's a symphony of storytelling, weaving together a tapestry of emotions, historical intrigue, and human connections that is nothing short of awe-inspiring.Impeccable Character Development:
At the heart of "Joy of Life" are characters so finely crafted that they transcend the screen and become companions in our journey. Fan Xian, portrayed with extraordinary depth by Zhang Ruoyun, is a protagonist who evolves before our eyes, from a witty and cynical outsider to a shrewd strategist navigating the intricate politics of the court. Each supporting character is equally vivid and three-dimensional, adding layers of complexity that mirror the intricacies of real life.
Engaging Plot and Pacing:
The drama's plot is an exquisite blend of genres—historical, political intrigue, romance, and comedy—each enhancing the others. The narrative dances effortlessly between thrilling action sequences, moments of heartfelt connection, and bouts of delightful humor. The pacing is masterful, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats while maintaining a balance that allows for meaningful character growth and emotional depth.
Balancing Tension and Humanity:
"Joy of Life" succeeds where many other dramas falter—balancing high-stakes political intrigue with genuine human moments. The show masterfully captures the tension of power struggles within the Tang Dynasty's court while never losing sight of the individuals who shape and are shaped by these machinations. The relationships, both romantic and platonic, are beautifully developed, portraying authentic emotions that resonate deeply.
Breathtaking Visuals and World-building:
The meticulous attention to historical accuracy is evident in every frame of "Joy of Life." The intricate costumes, opulent settings, and sweeping landscapes transport viewers to the Tang Dynasty with a sense of authenticity. The visual storytelling is so vivid that it becomes a character of its own, enhancing the emotional impact of the narrative.
Powerful Themes and Thoughtful Commentary:
Beneath its surface, "Joy of Life" tackles profound themes—identity, ambition, sacrifice, and the pursuit of a meaningful existence. It offers astute commentary on power dynamics, the consequences of one's choices, and the true nature of joy amidst adversity. These themes resonate universally, transcending time and cultural barriers.
In conclusion, "Joy of Life" is not just one of the best dramas; it's a monumental work of art that elevates the medium. With its unparalleled character development, intricate plot, emotional depth, and breathtaking visuals, it immerses viewers in a world where history and storytelling converge in perfect harmony. Whether you're a fan of historical dramas, complex narratives, or simply the magic of human connection, "Joy of Life" is a journey you won't want to miss.
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The Ultimate "Trust No One" Drama
When I first came across Joy of Life, I was hesitant to watch it. I looked at the description on Viki and was like, " This sounds like it will have a lot of drama in it. Do I really wanna watch this and potentially get my heart broken by the writers?" I didn't wanna watch it, at first. Then I watched it because I had nothing else to watch and I don't regret watching it. Joy of Life is one of the best Chinese dramas that I've seen in a really long time.Story: The story line is intriguing. I didn't think it was gonna be a guy who was born in the past, but yet he knows about future inventions and the like. That threw me off when I first started watching it. This drama kept me on my toes constantly. You never know who Fan Xian can trust 100%. A lot of people seem to be on his side or want to help him, but they're actually working against him. I just stopped trusting everybody eventually. I couldn't bear to get my hopes up that he had other people he could rely on. He has people he can rely on, but people outside that little circle of trust. I'm glad that there will be a season 2 because that ending blew my mind. I did not see that coming. I should have seen it coming, especially since you shouldn't trust anyone in this drama, but it still blindsided me.
Acting: The acting was awesome! I only looked at who played the male lead and I was excited when I saw that it was Zhang Ruo Yun. I think the first thing I ever saw him in was Medical Examiner Dr. Qin. He was fantastic as Dr. Qin. He was fantastic in this drama. I was excited to see what type of character he would be playing in this drama. He did such a good job. I loved his acting and I love the character. He made me laugh a lot. I will say that I didn't know that Xiao Zhan was in this drama until I looked up the cast list as I was watching the drama. You only hear his voice when you first meet him and it was bugging me because I recognized his voice, but couldn't place it. Then I saw it was him on the cast list and my curiosity was satisfied.
Overall: Basically, Joy of Life is a fantastic drama. It is a drama that has you questioning everyone's motives towards Fan Xian so that does add some suspense to it. It's obvious with who some of the villains are, but not all of them. I like that about this drama. It's nice to have a little mystery. I recommend this drama to everyone, but I recommend not binge watching it. There is just so much stuff packed into each episode that it can be overwhelming. For this drama, I would take it slow. It's worth it to take your time.
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I recommend this to any one ,every one,this is an amazing drama it’s funny witty exciting badasss kkkkk .The only thing that’s lack luster is the female lead for me she is to girly I know it’s a Novel adaptation. They have to stick to the plan but in one of these Wuxia novels I would like a female lead who matches the leads witty less fragile character.I never read the novel but I hope in season 2 the female lead becomes of some substance weak and damsel in distress doesn’t cut it for me I’m just saying ??♀️
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At first, the things interested me was the story idea where the main lead transmigrated from a modern world and to see more of Xiao Zhan's (because I just finished watching TU at the time). Honestly speaking, I was confused about why they didn't like focus on the time travel matter (which i loved btw) but as the story progresses I eventually forget that Fan Xian is from another timeline because of how amazing the plot is.
Fan Xian looks like an annoying and arrogant brat; though as the it progresses you can see how he actually isn't. Zhang RuoYun portrayed him so amazingly (as usual) to the point where you can feel Fan Xian's emotions, even the slightest ones.
Other's actings were so so so good as well, the one's caught my eyes were the seniors. Words alone wouldn't be enough to explain how fascinated I am with Chen Dao Ming and Wu Gang laoshi's actings. Whenever their characters appear on screen, a hundred of questions would start forming in my head. Things like, 'what are they thinking? what are they planning?' those kind of stuff.
I would write so much more but I'm keeping it spoiler free for now.
Can't wait for s2 <3 <3
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