This review may contain spoilers
If you like melodrama...
If this drama is one of your favorites... please don't read any further.It was an okay watch. If you like children getting abandoned, the real parent guilt tripping the child after they're an adult forcing them to move with them, and a last minute redemption for the vile, horrible mothers, etc....
The mothers were so terrible they didn't deserve a redemption at all especially Ling Xiao's mother.
These were grown a** adults and they were letting the parents tell them what they could or couldn't do.
With the genres labeled as: Comedy, Romance, Drama, Melodrama; one would expect there to be quite a bit more comedy and romance sprinkled in the mix unfortunately while there was a couple of funny scenes (although not enough to really fit the label) As for the romance there wasn't enough romance between them to make it worth watching.
The found family was great. I liked everyone of them, both dads, and the siblings (not blood related). All of the actors: Song Wei Long, Tan Song Yun, Zhang Xin Cheng, Tu Song Yan and Zhang Xi Lin did a fine job.
The ending was a happy one, although very quick.
Would I recommend it? I cannot. There were way too many rage inducing scenes for me.
However if you are a fan of any of the above actors and you prefer your dramas with lots of drama and melodrama then you just may like it.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
A family of choice, abandoned by their mothers, raised by devoted fathers.
Relationship between the three friends who grew up together:===============================================
From the get go, it was easy to see that Jian Jian clearly favored Ling Xiao over He Zi Qiu. She made Zi Qiu's life quite difficult and it made me a bit worried about what kind of man Zi Qiu would grow up to be, to always have to beg for affection. But thankfully, he turned out all right. Overtime, she outgrew the little jealously she felt about him becoming her brother and Zi Qiu's mother becoming her step-mother. But we could see that she took him for granted because he agreed to everything she wanted. And maybe that allowed him to have fun along with her, be a little naughty and forget that his mother left him to a stranger who could have treated him badly. Next, we have Ling Xiao, who was treated cruelly by his own mother, then later abandoned without much care. He had to grow up too early, compared to Jian Jian and Zi Qiu who were always lost in their own mischief. He was the mother of their friend group, who had look after both of them once he decided that they were his family. It was painful to see how life split the three apart, and for a moment I wondered if they would ever be the same.
The Best Fathers :
=============
Li Hai Chao: The best parent I have ever seen in any stories. Just how generous can a person be? There is nothing you can hate about him. He is made of all the good stuff in the world. Seeing that he lost his wife to childbirth, he could have become just as vile as Chen Ting and mistreated his child. But he was never that kind of person, he raised a daughter who was maybe a bit mischievous but all in all had a happy soul. He took in Zi Qiu and always treated ling Xiao well. He was both a mother and father to all three children who grew up to become the decent human beings they were. It was easy to see his genuine care for the children. He just eluded warmth. I was glad we had a character like that to balanced out the selfish mothers.
Ling He Ping: I wasn't a fan of him since he was more of an absentee father. Normally, it would have been understandable as he was the primary breadwinner of the family. But his absence resulted in the psychological trauma faced by his only living son who was neglected and mistreated by his mother. For far too long, He Ping humored Chen Ting at the cost of his child's mental health. I'm usually someone who is against violence and don't even tolerate excuses for slaps. But I didn't feel sorry when Chen Ting was slapped. What a poor excuse for a mother. Once she was out of the picture, Ling He Ping was finally focused on his child and became a decent father who started looking after his son.
Mothers who abandoned their sons:
===========================
Chen Ting: What a horrible character. I wonder where the ideas for this character came from. I do hope people who have mothers like these have grown up at least as well adjusted as Ling Xiao or are holding on and trying their best to live their life. She first mistreats her son, then abandons him without looking back, she then goes on to marry someone else and have another child (wth was going on in her mind to have another one. She is not a mother material), has an injury so now all the adults in her life don't want to take care of her so Xiao has to, when he has no obligations to do so. But he is guilt tripped into doing so. Even after he has fulfilled his duty as her "son", she then forces him to stay with them for more years. When is able to get rid of her tentacles and come back to a place where he was happy, she finds it in herself to come play with his head. She is mad at the woman he loves, hates her because that woman cared more for Xiao than her selfish ass ever did, then she tries to set her son up on a date with another woman, as if that's not enough she tries to kill herself leaving behind a letter for Xiao to find. She never had any mercy on her son. (One of the ickiest characters I have come across)
Was this review helpful to you?
Cdrama version SO MUCH better than Kdrama remake!!!
The story of this drama is different from typical dramas which is what intrigued me to look into this drama. I heard about the korean version “Family By choice” being a pretty popular kdrama, but after reading reviews, I found out there was a Chinese version called “Go Ahead” (the whole series is available on Youtube for free!)I HIGHLY RECOMMEND watching BOTH versions but to watch the Chinese version FIRST!!!!
Cdrama version is 40 episodes and the kdrama version is 16 episodes. Think about it… how can they condense 40 episodes into 16 eps?!
My initial reasoning was I didn’t want to spoil the ending for myself by watching a condensed version of the story first so i decided to watch the Chinese version then Korean version right after
Both dramas have the exact same story line with minor changes
Cdrama version PRO / Korean version CON: story building & humor
Chinese version focuses more on story building and the relationship between the female lead and her family, friends and most importantly the male leads (the brothers). The cdrama gives you more time to love each character
For example,in the Chinese version, both brothers decided on their careers based on their love for their sister but the Korean version lacks this. I think just the brothers’ career decisions alone shows their love for their sister WAY more than the korean version
Although the ending of the cdrama version fell a little flat in the last few episodes and had an ending i wasn’t expecting (since i watched it first), I think it depicted the story a lot better as the Korean version has too many cliche situations similar to other kdramas & had less the story building.
Korean version PRO / Chinese version CON: romance & casting
I think watching the Korean version AFTER will soothe your craving for the romance between the FL and main ML. The chinese version wasn’t AS focused on romance between the couple.
Kdramas are generally also better at casting attractive actor/actresses so it was definitely nicer eye candy. Attractiveness aside, I think the kdrama cast acted better than the cdrama cast
it was so easy to binge the whole 40 episodes of the cdrama version. However, I found myself unable to focus at times while watching the Korean version
Was this review helpful to you?
Easy breezy slice of life family drama full of warmth
No wonder this is such a hit, an easy breezy slice of life family drama, Go Ahead is the happy pill for gloomy 2020. Whatever you're going through right now, or missing your family so damn much, this is the perfect comfort watch, complete with comfort food porn.Such a charming ensemble cast oozing with chemistry helmed by Seven Tan, who is such a natural actress and comedic talent, Song Wei Long who is drop dead gorgeous, relatively greener but held his own, and Steven Zhang who really shone in this drama. I love his Zi Qi! Sun Yi as bff Ming Yue also did well. And the most adorable dad ever Hai Chao played by Tu Song Yan.
I'm not a fan of the Ling Xiao-Jian Jian romance, maybe it's second lead syndrome, their feelings are deep-rooted since childhood, but I'd prefer a more gradual transition from adopted siblings to romance, than stolen kisses as confession of feelings. I appreciate though there's no overwrought love triangle. But this drama is not about romance anyway, its strength lies in tackling relatable family matters and great friendships.
With a 40 episode drama, there is a slight drag in the middle. The probably only stressful stuff in this drama is the 'mother' issue, but the drama balances that with warm scenes. Thank you for the endless warmth, Go Ahead, and the reminder to push forward whatever hardships we're going through, there's always someone to hold your hand, as there are bonds even stronger than those tied by blood.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Lovely slice of life
Such a comforting drama about found families and the strength of their love for one another. I really enjoyed how they teased out the generational conflicts between children and parents and came to a refreshing resolution that resonated with real life and was both believable but not cruel.I loved the first half of the show before the romance storyline was introduced, but once it was the story didn’t linger on it (but you will need to suspend disbelief and just run with the premise). As another review said, I wish the drama transitioned that plot line better will and explored how Jian Jian felt, how Ziqiu and the parents felt with this development. It’s clear why Ling Xiao is in love with Jian Jian but I wish they did more to convince the audience - the abruptness added to the discomfort a bit for me. Thankfully they also didn’t linger on the love triangle that is hinted. Ziqiu’s love for Jian Jian was different than the love Ling Xiao had for her and eventually it’s clear there isn’t really a love triangle. The romantic elements felt a bit forced as was all the love triangles between the friends, but I think those elements aside it was really refreshing to see the story focus on the characters’ growth, struggles with their careers, self-esteem, self-loathing, mental health issues, coming to terms with their values even when in conflict with their parents’, and the selflessness of Li ba’s love for his three children in contrast with the selfishness of some of the mothers in the show.
Many of the moments of resolution and moments of love between the characters and the siblings were so endearing and lovely to watch. Those moments made the length of the show worth it and it felt as peaceful as sitting in a bright warm sun-lit room.
Was this review helpful to you?
I Cried A Lot But It Was Worth It
Go Ahead is a seriously wonderful drama about family, friendship, suffering, and forgiveness. Reflecting on the series I’m overcome thinking about how much they love and support one another. The acting and chemistry between all the characters is done so perfectly. Even the “evil” characters are done perfectly.At first glance 40 episodes seemed like a lot but by the end I felt it could have had more. In fact my only criticisms of the show is that I wanted to know more about where some people ended up in the future.
Originally, I put off watching this drama not only because of the number of episodes but I thought it may not fit with the romance dramas I usually go for. However this series delivered. There’s a healthy sprinkle of romance mixed in throughout the series. Not that it is necessarily heavy in romance but heavy in love and sort of intimacy/closeness amongst the family and couple/s that is just so satisfy to see play out.
If you’re debating watching this drama, don’t debate anymore. Watch it.
Would 100% Recommend
Would Re-Watch (with tissues)
Was this review helpful to you?
Too Long + Low Key Romance= Okay
LIKE:Good: sets, locations, scenery, lighting, food images, artwork, (carvings all excellent).
Cinematography & music all good.
Writing: very low key romance, even a middle school watcher can handle seeing the couples in this show. The family that wasn’t blood related, but still very close was endearing. The friendships were strong and a nice touch to the drama.
Acting/Cast: well chosen cast and the acting was for the most part was good.
DISLIKE:
Production: zoom in too close, shaky camera syndrome (lack of film stabilizer was maddening). Pacing issues due to repeating the same concepts over and over again.
Writing: ML’s mother was a sociopath, Actress’s mother was a narcissist, all the adult females or parents, came across as mentally disturbed, overbearing and self absorbed. Even the neighbourhood parents were like that. This show could’ve been resolved faster and got strung out to 40 episodes. I became a fan of fast forward button. Last episode crammed a lot of content in and resolutions too, but it was okay. Not much character growth at the end either. Typical tropes too, nothing new.
OVERALL:
Low key romance, but nice story about family and friendships. I recommend it if you have a lot of time to waste. No scene was particularly memorable and there's no need to watch it again.
Was this review helpful to you?
Beautiful Storyline
One word to describe Go Ahead“BEAUTIFUL”
This is the most beautiful drama I have ever watched.. I’ve watched so many dramas and Go Ahead really has a perfect, well written, touching, meaningful storyline!!
The flow is just perfect, not draggy and not too fast you won’t feel bored with the story
it gets interesting before you start to feel bored..
This drama will teach you so many things, from how to love a family, how to treat your parents, until how to forgive someone
but what I love is that it tells that “Family love is something that cannot be replaced and we should cherish” ~
The characters Li Ba and Ling Ba also tell the way parents think about their children and something that parents cannot tell us (their true feelings)
I feel like I gained a lot of knowledge when watching this drama, not like what I usually feel (watching something just to get rid of boredom)
I know that there are a lot of spoilers about the kiss scenes
Hence, I am telling you guys
The romance is 💯 !
Even though main leads love story wasn’t exposed that much as this is a family drama not pure romance drama but I can feel their sweetness for each other without them showing it
Also LJJ LX HZQ relationship is amazing too!
Oh God they were successfully make me laugh and cry so badly hahaha
Tips:
Prepare tissues!! hahaha
Not because there are many sad scences but you won’t able to hold your tears due to the beautiful and touching story...~~
I really need second season :(
and more drama like this !!
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
MASTERPIECE OF 2020
The best drama ever. Huhu. They put all realistic family problems in just 40 episodes. I have cried and laugh because of this drama! The story plot is really good and I really hope they will have another season!!! Whenever I see their old pictures, I feel nostalgia. (Am not crying). The actors/actress are really goood! They are so natural and exceptional! Personally, I love Tan Songyun and I love her even more! Plus, Steven and Weilong. Though, Weilong is her partner in the drama, I want her to be partnered with Steven❤️. Rewatch value is surely 10 and I've recommended it to my fam and friends, they really loved it a lot! Kudos to the Team and actors of this drama. They really done well!!!Was this review helpful to you?
Best C drama
Loved this drama and each one acted beautifully especially Seven Tan. She is actually a versatile actress. Loved her natural acting and was looking very beating in this drama. Have watched it more than 3 times. Never get bored watching it again and again. The dram focuses on the daily life of people who are not related to by blood but still stay together facing challenges of life. The love and support for each other even after getting separated for some time show that one does not require to be related by blood to love, protect and support one’s family.Wish this drama had some more episodes or a sequel in future with same cast members it would be a another hit drama I guarantee.
Was this review helpful to you?
You should watch this I guarantee you'll love it
My my my myFirst 10 episod got me crying like fool
Little Xiqiu was really good in acting, I couldn't help to feel so sad seeing him, he's such a kind little boy, even grew up to a much more kind teenager. Despite of everything that happened to him, he still had so much heart and kindness to give to others.
I had to say Ziqiu is my favorite character in this movie and my heart goes to him a lot.
(Personal Note : when I saw that scene when little xiqiu secretly washed the laundry at night I really couldn't help but cry, poor little boy, but he's so kind I can't with him)
Can't forget Dad Li whose kindness is really extraordinary. I mean, how come a person be this kind???? I really live for this story
Jianjian character is so nice, they're all so realistic.
LingXiao also perfectly portray that big brother that we all long for.
The only char I hate is Ling Xiao mom, I hate hate hate her.
Anyway you should watch this drama, I guarantee you'll love it
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
best family drama who leaves me crying ...
It turned out one of my fav drama. Acting skills , cast , and all are perfect.? The song also beautiful ,melts my heart?. This drama is too relatable to us and heart touching. There is a lot funny moments ,it rememberes us of our childhood. I really liked this drama. You can watch this without any doubt .Their childhood days are really memorable and enjoyable .
I started watching this drama because of my fav actor steven zhang, now i'm in love with this drama. I don't want this to end , but all good things has to come an end .
this drama tells us how the small incidents in family leaves a great significance in childs psycology ...
Was this review helpful to you?
