Who Rules the World

The chopping block!

I adored this drama! When i read the novel it was quite underwhelming, so naturally i loved the drama more. The story in both the novel and drama is a bit weak, but lets talk about the drama. I want to do the drama justice by telling what was great about it.

1. The actors. Phenomenal performances from the entire cast. Zhao Lusi really owned her role! Yang Yang was also quite good. However i really think Zhao Lusi took the cake on this one. She was very immersed in her character and it was almost like bai fengxi in the drama was the bai fengxi from the novel coming alive! Kudos for the great show of talent in the two leads.

2. I loved the chemistry between the two leads and i did enjoy each of their stories. A lot of people complained about there being too much palace plot on the male lead side, but i quite enjoyed it. It was annoying but it gave Feng Lanxi depth and even a bit of pity bc of all the struggles he had to deal with his selfish, power hungry, uncaring family. I wish they emphasized more on the female lead back story but they put her on the chopping block.

3. I loved all the side characters. There wasnt anyone overly annoying and obsessed. Usually you have this 3 way love triangle trope, or obsessed girl who pines, and schemes, or kills for the one they obsess over, but here; There is no misunderstanding or giving a cold shoulder to each other for long periods of time before they start realizing they were stupid. Even the 2nd female lead was cool and you almost wanted her to get the main lead as well. It was so chill and non stressful, I couldnt wait until each episode came out.

Now, i gave the story a low score and mediocre in some other regards but it was simply the chemistry and acting that just made it all up for me.

My qualms: they chopped this drama in what should have been 50 epidodes to 40. They really did butcher the story and lots of things did not line up or make sense b/c like my title says, the episodes were chopped!!! They crunched everything and made me feel like it was rushed rushed rushed. The beginning-mid was slow then all of a sudden you get operation warp speed! Literally almost everything in the last 10 episodes did not align so there ARE many plot holes.

Nonetheless i very much so enjoyed the drama and would watch it again. Probably again and again and again. Lol There were too many good parts and acting that supercedes the negative.

If you are expecting the drama to be remotely like the novel, dont. You will be disappointed. Just watch this with an open mind and prepare for some things not to make sense bc it was chopped, chopped, chopped! 🤪

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A love story for anyone ...2 Watch worthy

The actors do not get lost amongst one another. The story line does a wonderful job of weaving each person in and out as if, an ornate dance. At points it becomes 3 dimensional with a folding over of a person or storyline to fit or wait on a new story point.
The actors are superb and the love story mixed with great battles and some very sad losses will eventually find its way to your tear ducts!
This is one I can revisit often for many reasons...most of all for an appreciation of the two main characters and their spirit of sharing in love, no matter the cost or the circumstances.

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Fantasy-based Magic Martial Arts

I was encouraged to watch this drama because it received good ratings and was supposed to be good. However, I hesitated for a long while as I am not a fan of "wu xia". I finally decided to watch it because I had run out of good shows to watch and because the lead is Yang Yang. I am glad that I embarked on this "journey". It has been a ride.

What I liked:
- The leads have good chemistry. Even though I am not a big fan of the female lead, she pairs well with Yang Yang. Her acting has also improved a lot IMO.
- Yang Yang. He is a handsome lad and he looks good on my TV screen.
- Both leads are powerful in their martial arts and I especially love the fact that the female lead does not require saving by others. She is very powerful and is capable of saving herself and other people. I really love the fact that she is not a stereotypical silly damsel in distress. I like that she is smart and badass.
- The plot is intriguing enough despite the "omg are you sure" moments which border on illogical (but bear in mind that this is a "wu xia" drama.
- The acting throughout is good.

What I didn't like:
- Yang Yang's father in the drama was all sorts of insecure. I mean: Why would you cripple your son by giving him a drink to weaken him? I would only wish for my son to be a stronger person and not a weaker person. His motives were insane and inhumane.
- Yu Wu Yuan was a super villain. I didn't like him from the start because of his face. He looked fussy and hard to please. It was painful to watch him and his evil stratagems.
- Feng Ju's mother and Feng Ju were not pleasant either. Feng Ju's mother was a witch. She was positively evil. She wanted to kill her own husband to put her son as the king. I mean: Which wife does this? Also, she refused to acknowledge her firstborn son. Heartless mother and self-absorbed human being.

Overall, this drama is worth watching! :) I enjoyed the ride although I feel that the ending can be made much happier. I love happy endings (that's why).

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One Flaw in This Series

First of all, this is such a good drama. The visual effects and acting are superb. I waited for this because I'm a big fan of Yang Yang and the acting here did not disappoint.

THERE IS ONE FLAW.

After watching, I went and looked for the translated novel and the series pails in comparison. Don't get me wrong there weren't a lot of changes in the series that was in the novel, BUT the things that weren't incorporated could have made the series BETTER.

In the translated novel, the story of the Bai Feng Xi is more detailed and focused, unlike the series where we only get a glimpse of her life as a princess towards the end. It's not that I didn't enjoy Hei Feng Xi's life in the series, but it's usually the life of the guy as the warrior prince that we see. In the novel, Bai Feng Xi, as princess Feng Xi Yun, ACTUALLY created the army in Qingzhou before disappearing to travel the world of martial arts. She also has the full trust of 6 generals who are detailed and discussed in the book unlike in the series where it focus on Hei Feng Xi.

Maybe I'm biased because I am a girl and a warrior princess appeals more to me. BUT watching the series first actually helped me visualize everything in the book so that's one pro :))

I do like both versions, but if I were made to choose, the translated novel reigns SUPREME <3

Also, a caveat that I only found the translated version in wattpad so that is what I am basing it of off.

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half point taken off because of Yang Yang's stiff acting.

ML lead actor's attempts at regalness consists of lifting his shoulders and chin and sticking his chest out. YY is great when he's portraying the crushing heartbreak over his father's treatment of him and , he has enough chemistry with Zhou Lu Si (name any actor who's ever worked with her who doesn't -- maybe the side table lamp in that one scene...) to make us swoon for them both. (the scene where she rescues him from the water, case in point) . But once they get together, he really shows no emotion with the exception of him sometimes patronizingly putting his chin down to kiss her head to show deep caring. I know he's a good actor -- haven't seen a lot of his work where he really lets loose his emotions, but I know they're out there, so I believe it was the director's decision, but for me it keeps it from reaching epic love story level that it could otherwise be. Other than that, it's wonderful. Zhou Lu Si schools everyone, once again,

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Who rules the world is so lovable and entertaining that viewers become hooked to each character, forming strong bonds with each of the series' characters is very fun.  The director and creator did an outstanding job.While casting, direction, screenplay, cinematography, performances, music, and editing are all excellent 5/5. It's completely obvious by now that the writing, casting, acting, and execution of this drama are top notch and an example for others to follow. It's streamlined story telling but never feels rushed, with flawless threading of storylines and careful attention to their own laws of their universe. As with any notable piece in any creative medium, some of the directions they take will not be loved by everyone, but the majority of what I see is praise. Even those who are looking for flaws, are anti-popular, or have a very narrow, specific taste appear to be a tiny minority; there is no split audience here.Who rules the world is one of my favorite drama.The people included in that drama is beyond excellent actors/actress ,their acting is on point. The plot is very interesting and the way they dress is pleasing in the eyes.I hope I can see more of Zhao Lusi amazing acting performance in the future.

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Who Rules the World: A Journey of Love and Power"

Introduction:
"Who Rules the World" unfolds as a decent series, immersing viewers in a plot revolving around Bai Feng Xi and Hei Feng Xi, two formidable martial arts fighters concealing their true identities as royalty. Their journey from foes to lovers, characterized by mutual understanding and support, offers a refreshing take on relationships with equal strength and status for the main leads.

Plot and Pacing:
The plot delves into the complexities of Bai Feng Xi and Hei Feng Xi's identities, crafting a narrative that balances martial arts prowess with a romantic subplot. The pacing of the series is decent, maintaining engagement throughout.

Conclusion and Anticlimax:
However, the conclusion feels somewhat anticlimactic, particularly in how they defeat the main villain. Numerous unexplored aspects leave viewers wanting more, making it evident that some elements could have been further developed.

Gender Dynamics and Character Exploration:
The series leans towards a male-centric focus, predominantly unfolding in the male lead's kingdom. Unfortunately, the female lead's arc is relatively short, leaving her story insufficiently explored, a source of frustration for the audience. Bai Feng Xi emerges as a well-defined character with a cool temperament and exceptional skills, her other identity, Feng Xi Yun, revealing the poignant responsibility she must shoulder after her family's demise. Hei Feng Xi, a reserved man with a romantic side, brings depth to the narrative with his dual identity as the Prince of Yong Zhou.

Acting and Music:
Zhao Lu Si's remarkable performance, especially in emotional scenes, stands out, while Yang Yang's acting, though decent, may come across as slightly stiff. The series benefits from a well-curated music playlist, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Conclusion:
"Who Rules the World" provides an intriguing blend of fantasy, romance, and martial arts. While it excels in character dynamics and offers a unique take on power and love, it leaves room for improvement in terms of conclusion and gender balance.

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"Who rules the world" is the drama which could have did much better than it is now if it was more concentrated on the later part of the script. I would say the first 30 episodes >> last 10 episodes. For me the highlight is episode 29, Yang Yang slayed with his acting there. I indeed feel the scriptwriter messed up too much & missed some points to add for Feng Lanxi.
I would like to add the people who read here if this was your yang yang's first drama, plz watch his 'glory of special forces'(100/10), the kings avatar and you are my glory. I would say yang yang, his acting and the script did justice to one another in glory of special forces. You would see a totally different Yang Yang there.

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Worlds Collide

"Who Rules the World" is a captivating Chinese drama that offers a perfect blend of romance, action, and political intrigue. Yang Yang and Zhao Lusi deliver standout performances as Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi, bringing depth and chemistry to their roles. The plot is engaging, intertwining political maneuverings with heartfelt romance, and the visuals are stunning, featuring elaborate costumes and well-choreographed action scenes.

However, the drama isn’t without its flaws. Some plot points can feel a bit predictable, and certain character arcs may seem underdeveloped or rushed. Additionally, the pacing occasionally slows down, which might test the patience of some viewers.

Despite these shortcomings, "Who Rules the World" remains a compelling watch for fans of epic tales with a romantic twist. Its strong performances and impressive production values make it worth checking out.

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