Arsenal Military Academy

Action! Action! The male lead was so cute and hilarious that you could only love him. Really great story line. If you’re into secret service, covert missions, gun battles and fighting, you’ll love this. The story centers around a female who decides to join a program specifically for men. What I enjoyed most about the series was the action. What I disliked about it is that the female lead appeared to loyal to everyone except the male lead until we get to the end of the series. Although the relationship between the leads was fun, the writers didn’t give time to develop their relationship even though it was about 48 episodes. Overall it’s definitely worth watching but don’t expect romance or any significant chemistry between anyone.

Read More

Surprisingly Good

I did not expect to enjoy this as much as I did.

The Pro's
The acting was fabulous by the whole cast. The story was very well written and engaging even the ending was one of the best wrap ups from a C-Drama that I've yet to find. Even though there was one part at the ending that had me roll my eyes -the "cliché" was just too much ;-) - but it fit, never the less.

Recently I happened to watch a short documentary about the Japanese invasion into Asia and China during the early 1900's. I had no idea that documentary would deepen my understanding of the events surrounding this drama. However, I do not believe it's necessary to know this background but it did give me greater appreciation.

The OST's were beautiful and the whole production was top notch.

For the Con's:
There were a few holes in the storyline, and maybe a few editing blunders. But not enough for me to give this any less than a 10.

All in all, this is not my usual drama to choose to watch. However, this drama will be at the top of my list as one of the best I have ever watched.

Well worth the time.

Read More

A 10 out of 10 masterpiece

If there had been 48 more episodes, I would have watched every single one with the same excitement and curiosity! This is one of the very few series I’ve enjoyed entirely without ever needing to fast-forward — a true rarity. Everything about it is top-tier: from the flawless performances and beautiful sepia-toned cinematography, to the enchanting soundtrack (who wouldn’t love a jazzy rendition of Greensleeves?), including both the opening and closing credits.

The wardrobe is a masterclass in sartorial elegance, with each outfit perfectly styled to reflect both character and era. Even the quieter, transitional scenes are beautifully crafted and full of atmosphere.

You can’t help but fall in love with every single element of this series. I truly cannot recommend it enough — it’s captivating, refined, and unforgettable.

Read More

History, Loyalty, and Love – A Hidden Gem You Need to Watch!

Review:
"Arsenal Military Academy" is that drama that hits you in the feels while also keeping you on the edge of your seat. Set against the backdrop of China’s early Republican era, the story follows Xie Xiang, a brave young woman who disguises herself as a man to attend a military academy. BAM! The moment Xie Xiang walks into the academy, it’s clear she’s a force to be reckoned with. Bai Lu’s portrayal of her is fantastic; she exudes strength and intelligence while keeping her vulnerability intact. Xie Xiang is everything you want in a female lead—fierce, determined, and unapologetically bold. Her journey of discovering her limits and strengths kept me glued to the screen.

Then there's Gu Yanzhen (played by Xu Kai), the classic ‘cool on the outside, soft on the inside’ character. His evolution throughout the series had me yelling at my screen, especially when he went from being this emotionally distant figure to someone who could finally embrace his feelings. The pitter-patter of their developing relationship was beautifully done, full of moments where you see them understanding each other more deeply. Their chemistry—though subtle—had fireworks by the end.

The historical setting was perfectly woven into the narrative. It wasn’t just about the academy or the romance; it was about navigating the chaotic world they lived in. I felt the thrum of tension and danger in the air, as the characters grappled with loyalty, identity, and national pride. It wasn’t just about fighting battles; it was about fighting for what you believe in, and that was so compelling.

One thing I really appreciated was the dynamics between the friends at the academy. The bond formed between the cadets was tested time and again, and whoosh, their loyalty to one another was heartwarming to see. The camaraderie was everything, and it popped in a way that made me care just as much about their individual struggles as I did about the main love story.

However, there were parts where I felt some secondary characters got the short end of the stick. For example, I would have liked to see more of the second-lead romance, which could have added another layer of emotional complexity.

Final Thoughts:
"Arsenal Military Academy" is not just a historical romance—it’s an emotional rollercoaster. It’s one of those shows where you’ll find yourself bawling in one episode and then cheering for the characters in the next. The romance, the friendships, and the growth of the characters make it one of those dramas that stick with you long after it ends. Definitely worth watching for anyone who loves a good balance of action, history, and a solid love story.

Read More

Initially, I was looking for drama with a light and funny story. However, many sites recommend this story. From the trailer, AMA is actually a story that I liked in college because I like stories that involve fighting scenes.
In fact, this drama was completely beyond my expectations. The stories in the academy are funny and the chemistry of each character is very good. I just found out that the two main actress and actor in this drama have played in other dramas before. Although in this drama there are almost no romantic scenes, but each character is really interesting. The storyline doesn't stretch and the OST is very good. If you are a fan of You're Beautiful (korean drama), you will most likely like this drama. You can call this drama You're Beautiful in a military setting.

Nb: Is it only me who see Xu Kai very similar to Cha Eunwoo ????

Read More

I know this drama since last year, but i keep pending to watch it because usually i dont like less romance drama, and i prefer modern drama.and now after i watched it, i fell in love with this drama and the leads, both of them xu kai and bai lu.
I knew bai lu from her modern drama lucky's 1st love. And this is 1st time i watch xu kai's drama. And they are so amazing. They have a very good chemistry.
I little bit dissapointed about the ending, the ending story about gu yan zhen and xie xiang just like that. But overall the story is good. I burst into tears when huang song died.
My favorite character is gu yan zhen (of course), he looks childish, but he will do anything and sacrifice to protect xie xiang.
Because of gu yan zhen, i like xu kai.
Because of AMA, gu yan zhen+xie xiang. I ship xu kai-bai lu. So i watched the legends
I really wish they will work together again as couple...

Read More

Awesome chemistry between actors

The story is set around the early 1900s and revolved around a military school and lives of their students and instructors etc.

Main character is a lady who cross-dressed as a boy to attend the school in the name of her dead brother. 2 fellow students fell for her and no surprise, she eventually ended up with the character who is somewhat a playboy and immature. Personally I find the character of the 1st male lead irritating and irresponsible. It is also because of his impulsive nature that caused numerous issues and eventually the death of a close friend.

The 2nd male lead in comparison is a gentleman and man of righteous character. Was disappointed that the female lead did not fall for him and it was quite boring for me to watch after. I skipped through all the parts with the 1st male lead and female lead after, hahaha.

This drama is full of action and entertaining to watch. It also has history component in it and allows for viewers to understand alittle about what happened after the fall of the Qing Dynasty etc. Definitely worth watching!

Read More

Must Watch

Not sure where to start since there are so many impressive elements to address for this drama series. Having known Bai Lu was an extremely talented actress already, I came in with high expectations. I wasn't prepared for the amazing cinematography, acting, and storyline the series had to offer. The characters were portrayed so well by the actors, so big big big props to them. I haven't seen a drama that enticed me as much in a while so Arsenal Military Academy really was a breath of fresh air. The set depicted China in the early 1900s extremely well I was pleasantly surprised by the architecture and fashion style. Ngl, I shed a few tears in some scenes but honestly, the audience had it coming...In conclusion, super great and one of a kind film. I've fallen for all of the cast especially Xu Kai and Bai Lu <3

Read More

Second Favorite drama after The Untamed

I don’t usually write review..it is my second review writing..and the first was the untamed...
It has become my second next fav drama after untamed..literally become Xukai fan after watching it..this drama will take only few minutes to make you laugh, cry, angry and fall in love with all the cast.. the best thing is that you will eventually love all the love triangles..they acted so well that you will end up praying, O God they might be a couple..thn you will realize no..they aren't main..
even the songs are strong enough to pierce your ♥
some deaths will left you being sad... but the end is pleasing enough.
The friendship in the drama was outstanding and too touchy..the feelings, expression and the way of avenging the friend was superb....the tactics of defeating the enemies was unpredictable..and unbelievable.
Actor:
After this one, i finished every drama of Xukai and can't get over him...such a brilliant actor. You will be surprised how he switches his role from being naughty to a responsible brave guy.
Other than main role:
As I said, you will undoubtedly love all the cast.. but I need to say, after the main characters, you just can't ignore the character Qu Manting...Brilliant..Even if there were not the main character's love story, this character will make you love the drama..she just killed me by laughing
Rewatch:
I rewatched it for 3 times in a row...maybe the number will increase if i miss him..i loved it

Read More