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LLTG BRAVO!!!
This drama really deserves a loud of standing ovation!!! BRAVO!!!🎉💐✌😊👏😁👏😃💐🎉
All in all terms of production, story, acting & cast, visual FX, and OST are presented at a superlative level that is so catchy, artistic, and enthrall.
The cinematography is very impressive. It's like watching a movie. I watching this on the big screen; the bigger the better. Kudos to Director Fei, great attention to detail. The coloring is absolutely well done.
The slow romance between Ling Bu Yi and Cheng Shao Shang (Niao Niao) is unbearable, both are too adorable. Where ML was captivated by FL, and fell in love at first sight. But on the one hand (LBY) has never experienced a romantic relationship, and on the other hand (Niao Niao) is even 'blind' about what love means, because of her background as a child that has never been loved and cared for. I crossed my fingers and toes that this love would be deeper than a light romance. Especially when I pay attention to the two main characters, Leo Wu&Rosy Zhao, their compatibility and chemistry was clear on another level of romance.
After all, I also enjoy Lou Yao as Niao Niao's "first love". Even though it wasn't 'true love' to Niao Niao (and Lou Yao?), they pampered each other, filling their loveless hearts with respect. It is pure and sweet as long as it lasts.
Supporting characters that I really like: Emperor (I think besides director fei, Wendy is the main shipper of Yishang Fufu), Granny Cheng (Her comedy scene really broke the ice, so hilarious), Yuan Shen (LOL). A-Fei&A-Qi (Both are a complementary combination, like a container and the lid). I also miss 3rd uncle and 3rd aunt of the Cheng Family.
Almost all parts of the story and scenes in this drama are excellent, and draw us attention so stickly. However, there are some scenes that are memorable and attach in my memory, either because of their artistry or cos of their material dialogue, or by the combination of all the best qualities in them.
My favorite scenes:
• Scenes on the night of the lantern festival.
• The scene of the bridge collapsing in the Wan residence.
• The scene where Shaoshang pulled an arrow from General Ling's chest using her Shaoshang's string.
• Scene in the Gingko forest.
• The scene when General Ling proposed to Shaoshang in front of the public and the emperor.
• The scene of the Cheng Family training in the military with General Ling.
• The scene of NiaoNiao getting drunk and being carried home by General Ling. etc.
Hahaha ... I think almost the whole scene is so imprinted on my memory. Oh my God... I don't think I can be helped anymore.
(つω`*)...🤣🤣🤣 ♡～v(￣∇￣)v♡
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And the production quality is totally up there with the best of what money can offer in C-drama land, none of the xianxia nonsense where most of the money seems to have been flushed down the drain with shitty CG and overpaid actors.
And the story! Gosh the story, I actually started reading the book after the first week because it got excruciating waiting for the new episodes - and that, ladies and gentlemen, is when you know I have it bad. The adaptation is stellar so far to kudos to the scriptwriter and director for knowing how to keep the story tight and the plot moving, but making sure the swoony scenes between the OTP are still present, and in some scenes, even one-upping the book version. Can I also just say that Wendy might be the OTP's major shipper in reel-life, but the director plays no small part in shipping the OTP too in the way he crafts each exquisite scene!
The chemistry, my god. So restrained, but filled with so much wanting and frisson, yet innocent and chaste as fitting for the characters' age/context. It made this 'jiejie' smile and squee at this redemptive first love unfolding on screen. I've been following every behind the scene clip and those who understand chinese, please go watch the livestream playback of both leads on weibo - it'll have you smiling so hard the apples of your cheek will hurt so bad. (^з^)-♡Chu!!
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Best historical C-drama 2022
This is so far the best historical drama that I watched (repeatedly hahaha). I love both the main leads. Zhao Lu Si as beautiful and clever Cheng Shao Sang really bring the story life and close to our heart. This girl show how powerful and independent a woman can be eventhough raised in difficult situation during war time. Being pulled in to the royals power struggling by her beloved one The Charismatic and Powerful General Ling Bu Yi played by Leo Wu, Our little cute heroine show bravery, integrity and we can see how her character develop during the series.I need to give my big applause also to Leo Wu (Wu Lei) who portray General Ling Bu Yi. Not just handsome, his acting is superb. If you see how clear his facial expressions portraying how General Ling Bu Yi felt in each episodes, his 110% effort in the fighting scenes, this prove Leo Wu is an A class actor in such a young age. General Ling Bu Yi who have conflicted heart between love and revenge, this character I think will always be a legend in C-Drama until many years to come.
Standing ovation also for Director Fei who have succesfully direct this wonderful drama. Romance, Family Issues, Betrayal, Royals Feud, and Wars are all nicely wrapped in smooth story telling and beautiful scenes. Selection of the casts is also superb, each casts really played well like melodius ensemble that compliment each others. This is the first long drama (56 episodes) that I watch continously without skipping ! And I even repeat again some episodes to appreciate the dialog.
Watching this drama starting my shallow obsession to watch C Drama again 😁hahaha… . I am now a confirmed fans of Zhao Lu Si 💜. All of her drama are already kept in my play list.. Plus I ship this WULU CP 💜💚 so hard ! I would love to see them again together in the next drama. 💚💜
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This review may contain spoilers
Primarily Focused on FL's Storyline
This "2 part" drama, I'm going to review separately on here because I feel part 1 is different from part 2. Watching it solely for Wu Lei as he's one of the people I follow. I love him in these commander roles plus the man can have chemistry with a pet rock at only 22 years old. I never read the source material so I'm sure many of the novel readers will disagree with me and that's ok.Pros: LBY played by WL never disappointed when he hit the screen for the very short amount of time he was in this part. Not only was he lethal and ruthless but he also knew who he wanted from nearly the first episode and was just bidding his time for the sake of the familial politics working around him. He however was also not without flaws and that showed a lot at the end of part 1. CSS/NN played by ZLS was always on her game though also a flawed character. I really appreciated how smart she was without the need of traditional learning. With so many odds against her, she still not only managed to survive but make something of herself.
Other favorite characters included NN's brothers, third uncle and aunt, LBY's guards, Yang Yang, QiQi, emperor and empress. All were very helpful and caring where most of NN's family fell short. Ah Yao was alright but just a sweet kid and I'm glad he was maneuvered accordingly out of her life. Music, costumes, scenery, and that part of production was quite beautiful and I enjoyed that very much. Also the comedic elements helped move many of the slower scenes along.
Cons: This part of the story was slow; like snail paced slow to the point where it was very draggy. I ffw a lot of NN's family drama in the beginning episodes because it was legit yawnsville. I get that they were trying to show how hard she had it and all but it was just too much. The only bright spots were when LBY came into the picture or she traveled to Hua County. Otherwise, it was all very similar and lackluster.
Really poor characters were all the Princesses especially princess seaweed who's whining just made me want to stuff said seaweed down her throat. All they did was bully NN and with the same old tired crap, like ladies can y'all sing a different tune? You're all boring. Mommy dearest took the cake and the award for worst mother of the year and I couldn't deal with her; dear lord what a horrible woman. I'd say she was the main antagonist of part one. Dad was ok but essentially had no spine. YS aka pompous ass didn't need any scenes. He is a contender for NN's heart but each of his scenes were just of him being an asshat to the woman he liked.
Just a lot of unnecessary tropes and cliches, in this first one. I know all of the meat and potatoes will be in the second one but I do wish that the first part had an even backstory on the ML not just a rinse and repeat of FL's crappy home life dynamic, it would have helped a lot with what's coming and made the first portion more even keeled.
Would I recommend it? It's beautiful and if you're a fan of any of the leads or support and are ok with a really slow start, then sure, I would. Because I'm looking forward to part 2 and what it has to deliver.
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Emotional ride with a bit of a flat progression.
Saying I am not completely invested in this slow burn romance (it’s so slow one could think it literally backtracks a few times) would be a lie. They got me on their first shared screen time and I did not even mind the fact they barely interact in the first half of part 1 of the show.Love Like the Galaxy in its part 1 feels a lot like a family slice of life rather than a typical historical romance. The focus is on the main characters as individuals rather than them as a pair and future couple. Especially with Shao Shang, we can observe in detail how she interacts with all members of her family. On the other hand, while we don’t see Bu Yi interact with many people in his circle (except from his 2 loyal companions, who sadly had less and less screen time as drama progressed), the plot focused on the past mystery surrounding his family and tragedy that befell on it.
Here’s the deal though: while I believe they did a close to perfect job with Shao Shang and her side of the story, Bu Yi just felt underdeveloped - both as a character and his storyline. Any questions I might have had regarding the female lead were addressed one way or another, while many times I got so little information about male lead, I was not even sure what to ask - so I slowly completely lost interest in his solo quest for justice.
As for the romance - the sweet agony I felt because of Bu Yi’s pinning was amazing. I love how we didn't really get to see leads interact a lot. That said, just because they didn’t share the screen, does not mean there was no chemistry. They were able to sell the connection even when they were not together. How amazing is that! They influenced each other and slowly depended on each other, even without many interactions.
At some point though it started to feel frustrating. While we saw and understood how Bu Yi’s feelings changed, Shao Shang was an uninterested romantic mystery for way too long. So by the end of part 1, how her feelings and understanding of herself changed felt a little bit rushed. I’m sorry, but if you deliver romance at 0.25x speed, you cannot speed it up with quick 30 seconds flashbacks later on.
Another thing that bothered me pacing wise was the Lou Yao part of the plot. This story was unnecessarily long, when in fact it had little impact on characters. With how little it mattered, how long it took to resolve was surprising and… well, annoying.
On the bright side - I love a lot of the supporting characters. Wan Qi Qi and the emperor are definitely some of the best. Especially with the emperor, he delivers some great humor and comedy bits.
Acting wise - amazing. Not one performance felt flat. Zhao Lu Si can deliver both the carefree and charming, and serious and defeated. Leo Wu was probably born to play in historical romance shows. Huge shoutout to Xu Di - her dramatic performance as Madam Cheng is to die for.
Another good aspect is obviously the scenography, set design, camera work, lighting and all the rest production related things. The show is simply beautiful. Not taking screenshots while watching is a crime.
Overall, a really solid first half, but the true quality and value it has will be known after watching the rest of the show.
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Action, romance, comedy, family- THIS HAS EVERYTHING
You would think that with a drama as ambitious as this one to cover all grounds of what makes a good drama a good drama, it would lose itself somewhere in the epicness and spiral out of control. Spoiler alert- it doesn’t. It just gets more and more and more awesome.Admittedly, the first half is pretty slow, as others have mentioned, but patience is nothing but a virtue. The explosion when the main leads (finally) get together is well worth the wait- and I appreciated the way their relationship progressed at its own pace.
The HUMOR, by the way, is something I don’t see talked about enough. This is possibly the FUNNIEST historical drama I have ever watched, and it comes from ALL the characters, not just the token funny guy (though this has that too). The paternal grandma Cheng is just too funny, despite all her shortcomings.
The portrayal of family that comes mainly from the relationship (or lack thereof) between Shaoshang and her mother is an emotional one. I cried SO many times over it because it was so damn relatable and it wouldn’t stop hurting. It’s honest and raw and doesn’t show any mercy. On the other hand, her father is an absolute gem. Her brothers, as well, are amazing.
Chemistry between the two leads are off the freaking charts. You’ll get to it in part 2 ;)
Anyway, I’m gonna go finish the rest of part 2 and come back to finish this review later if I remember to! Toodles!! (All you need to know is that THIS is the 2022 cdrama for me!)
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A breath of fresh air
I'll try to make this as short as possible 😅.First of all the storyline.... It's new, different and refreshing. I mean I don't think we've seen a Cdrama where the female lead is to have 3 marriage prospects have we?. What makes it more different is how they managed to weave the story and relationships between Cheng shaoshang and her suitors, it was not messy at all. Perfectly written and so far amazingly delivered.
The chemistry between Lusi and Leo Wu is just perfect. I say this because after watching WRTW, I had to go back and rewatch it for 5 times because I couldn't get over YY and Lusi's chemistry there but thanks to LLTG, I can say that I've moved on and my new CP now is produly Lusi and Leo Wu 😂. It's just that good , gives you the right feels. God I think I digress but believe me when I say that the chemistry is so very apt!.
The cinematography is something else, it's breathtaking and so aesthetic. The comedy is something else😂. Hilarious most especially that bridge scene 😂, God my stomach hurt so much from laughing.
I think I have to stop here , I am hopeful while praying that tencent will air the part two without delay cause this is the only Cdrama that keeps me excited and giddy right now.
A must watch!!!
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IT'S BEST THING SINCE SLICED BREAD!!!
I wallow on this drama. It's the best thing since sliced bread!!!With a storyline that is so inspiring and interesting, it is integrated with the social and cultural context of that era. The story also uncovers real-life problems and contradictions, such as the traditional Chinese family preference for boys over girls and generational conflicts when it comes to parenting. How important is the love-caring, attention and support of parents and families for the development of children's character and mindset. The love story set forth in this story is also arouses and special.
In this series, the development of the characters and the plot of the subject takes place gradually and logically. The backstory of the characters and their reflections on relationships make this series multidimensional. The fact that this series contains elements of a fresh light comedy that flows from beginning to end also makes it so much fun to watch.
The drama is also supported by the rows of professional actors and actresses, where their acting is so slick and natural, union with their character. Especially for FL and ML who are still relatively young but undoubtedly 'gifted', the appearance of Zhao Lusi as Cheng Shaoshang and Leo Wu Lei as Ling Bu Yi genuinely deserves THUMBS UP! The chemistry between the two is really on another level. Lot of sparks between both, bring audience to enjoy many many swoon-worthy moment.
The costumes used are also unique and cool. What I like the most is the shaoshang winter costume during the lantern festival, the fur cloak in a charming red color. I also like Ling Bu Yi's armor and military robes.
In terms of cinematography, it is so aesthetic and elegant. I feel like I'm while watching a box office movie, spoiled by captivating visuals with stunning details.
The music and sound here is truly outstanding. Every melody and tone is mixed and arranged meticulously and accurate, so as to be created form the wholly proper of mood and atmosphere, built tension, strengthen emphasis to an effect of emotion or give empathize the action.
As comprehensive these drama and the story on it is really blatantly my heart and memory. All in terms of quality, artistic and philosophy, this was really absolute preponderant of great.
( ͡ _ ͡°)ﾉ♡♡♡
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Great dynamic from a period ensemble family drama~
Maybe many people who read the synopsis thought the drama would only focus on the romance of the main lead, in fact this drama is more than that. Each character that appears on screen is not only a tool, they all have their own story. The storyline is slowly built, making us understand how each character is connected, how they behave and so on. The main example is our female lead. In the first 4 episodes is shown how Cheng Shaoshang, a little girl who was bullied almost her whole life and left alone behind made her unconsciously always in ready mode to defend herself and doesn't care about manners also what she'll receive after that because she was never taught before. The most important thing for Shaoshang is to defend herself first.The harsh of reality is shown, especially ancient time as the main setting for this drama. Shaoshang has a typical Asian mother who is strict and has a high pride in educating their children, unfortunately what she did unconsciously hurts her daughter. Maybe some people don't understand, but many people also can sympathize because they've seen and felt it by themselves. There is also Ling Buyi, a young general whose emperor's favorite, in several scenes showing us those who have power can do much more than commoners. The bittersweet of reality is shown by the diversity of this drama. I personally think that there are no filler episodes in LLTG, every scene makes me understand more about what it's like to be the character. Full of laugh and tears enjoying their stories building up. Can't wait things unfold more in part two~
For the cast of this drama, obviously I have no complaints at all. They born to play these characters in LLTG. I can't imagine if just one character was replaced by another actor, especially Ling Buyi and Cheng Shaoshang. No young actor imo can represent how strong general Ling Buyi is other than Wu Lei, his body proportions and aura perfectly match with 081. For CSS, perhaps the cunning and stubborn side can be done by other actress, but the adorable and glutinous side of CSS as a 15-year-old girl who is still innocent and doesn't know the cruelty of the world, no one can do this except Zhao Lusi. These two makes a perfect combination. Cnetz even nicknamed Yishang/Wulu couple as "God's chosen couple" "Heaven chosen couple" because of their overflowing chemistry.
The BGM of this drama is chef kiss, because there is no OST (only instrumental/bgm) makes the audience more focused on the story. Cinematography? Masterpiece indeed. The months of hard work that director Fei, screenwriters, casts and other staff have put in is clear to my eyes, they show me a great dynamics and I'm super satisfied with it.
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This review may contain spoilers
"If the husband is the sun, the wife is the brilliant galaxy. We create the world by coexisting."
PLOT & CHARACTERS:This is a coming-of-age story that's like no other. It's an emotional yet enlightening journey into love, parent-child conflict, loyalty and female empowerment as Cheng Shao Shang (CSS) goes through the turbulences in her journey to self discovery and growth.
Her relationship with Ling Buyi has grown a great deal. I truly love how she's grown from a young lady who knows nothing about love to one that capable of caring for her beloved while still remaining true to herself. She learns how to love, empathise and compromise. She's just as intelligent and headstrong as any man, which is especially rare in such a patriarchal society, but can also be loving and caring towards those who are close to her.
What surprised me the most is the transition from Part 1 to 2. In Part 1, CSS let her entire existence centred around her mother's neglect and biases, as well as others' condescending attitudes towards her "unconventional" upbringing. However, as we transition to Part 2, she's gained a new confidante and mother figure, Empress Xuan, who gives her the affirmation she needs to keep being herself but also the etiquette and knowledge to survive the dangers in the Palace. The bickering and conflicts in Part 1 now seem so trivial as CSS becomes more mature and determined with her goals to follow and serve the Empress. While Empress Xuan is composed, benevolent and dutiful, which are the social expectations of women in Ancient China, she admires CSS's free spirit and bravery. The two see their desired self and aspirations in each other, creating a very insightful and touching relationship. Consort Yue, Shao Shang's mother and third aunt are also very powerful female characters that are way ahead of their time in different ways.
Ling Buyi (LBY) is a complex character that really draws you in. He's extremely devoted to CSS and would readily sacrifice his life for her. But when it comes to acting in the nation's interest and his own quest for vengeance, he can't help but forsake CSS's love. Being the Emperor's adopted son and commanding general, he's almost untouchable yet also helpless at bringing justice to his family's massacre. Personally, I love seeing how the rigid general becomes all goofy in front of CSS. And sometimes, their PDA makes me swoon and feel envious at the same time. Emperor Wen is such a good father figure for LBY, more than just out of his brotherhood with the former General Huo. I would say he's the biggest source of comedic relief in the drama. The way he shamelessly dotes on LBY and ships LBY with CSS is hilarious.
CAST & PRODUCTION:
Despite their young age, Zhao Lusi and Wu Lei approach their roles with overwhelming maturity and depth. We used to know Lusi as the playful and funny actress that can liven up any drama she's in, especially rom-coms. Here, she's able to incorporate some of that comedic touch with more articulations. She’s very playful and jovial in beginning, but becomes much more calm and refined towards the end of Part 2. On the other hand, Wu Lei carries out the duality of LBY very well. His stare can be serious in one moment, then melt and become hopelessly smitten with CSS. Wu Lei has the gravitas that gives complexity and charm to his character's portrayal. He’s also extremely skilled in horse riding and action scenes, adding even more intensity to the drama.
When it comes to cinematography, every scene in this drama is truly like a painting that speaks a thousand words. It's majestic but still very much the embodiment of elegance and grace. The costume and hairstyle for each character are vibrant and unique in their own way. I particularly love the layered dresses designed with a trailing tail, lowly tied hair and long earrings which add a certain sense of fluidity and feminity when the characters walk. Ling Buyi's armor is also a glory in itself, imposing and dominating like his own personality. And the "mandarin duck wings" make him look even more dashing. I love how the director is not only very masterful in his craft but also an avid WuLu couple shipper. From the behind-the-scenes, he’s very hands-on in helping the actors bring out the full sensitivity of their characters, ahem… especially the bashful and sweet romance between the 2 leads.
The soundtracks are so beautiful and fitting of the historical period. Splendid Star (星汉灿烂) by Shan Yi Chun is soft and smooth but still carries some intensity and momentum. Star River Sigh (星河叹) by Isabelle Huang is definitely my favourite with its heartbreaking nostalgia and poetic sensibility.
FAVOURITE QUOTES:
“When I’m with you [CSS], I feel human.” Ling Buyi
“Maybe Shao Shang is not the gentle lady who others prefer. But in my heart, she’s the best woman… in the whole wide world. She is innocent and courageous…. She’s the only one who can walk by my side. I will only marry her in this life.” Ling Buyi
“Although she [CSS] appears cold on the outside, she has always been a very caring person. She can only put her mind at ease, when those she cares about are doing well. That’s why I make sure all of you [CSS’s families and friends] are doing well.” Ling Buyi
"I can brew wine... build a water wheel... build kilns and fire tiles... Whether Ling Buyi is around or not, I'm a lady who lives well... Ling Buyi is the person I love most in this world. But I am nobody but myself." Cheng Shao Shang
“I told Her Majesty that since I engaged to you [LBY], everyone saw me as your fiancee. No one saw me as Cheng Shao Shang anymore. Her Majesty said that I was brought up as an independent lady. I only cared about myself, my personal gains and losses. She said I should try to be more amenable… more flexible." Cheng Shao Shang
"I'm proficient in poetry and classics. You're [CSS] good at building mechanisms. Everyone has something they're good at. You know what others don't. I'll slowly teach you what others know... There's no need to feel inferior. You can lift your head high." Empress Xuan
“When she [CSS] was young and needed to be loved most, she wasn’t loved by her family. If you [LBY] want to love her, you have to make up for her grief. Don’t always make her understand your choice. Only by discussing can you keep walking side-by-side.” Empress Xuan
"Back then, I always hoped she could be more mature. Until today, she has become so composed, as if she was a different person. Recalling old times, she behaved aggressively, always romped around. But it put my mind at ease... Was I mistaken since the beginning?" Cheng Shao Shang's mother
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This review may contain spoilers
My patience is tested to the limit! Highly Recommended!
The drama started out slow and somewhat confusing...(ep1-4)...almost dropped but really glad I stuck to it...After ep 4, things picked up and oh boy...its agony waiting for new episodes to air...just like waiting for that phone call after the first date...
I'm back to update my review after I finished all 27 episodes for Part 1. I would give a score higher than 10 if I could!!!
These are the reasons:
This is an excellent CDrama - well-made - well done!!! From interesting storylines (not cliche), scripting, casting, directing, especially cinematography!
Storylines: 10/10 - Sub plots seem to get weaved into the main plot really well. Get to learn family values and tradition way and what young dynasty had to go through to survive.
Acting: 100/10
All actors/actresses did an excellent job in their roles...The male lead portrayed the cold, decisive, ferocious General LBY so well...he can speak with his eyes, being anger, love, caring....his gaze is unbelievable! Love him so much when he's in his uniform on horseback with his black armored guards...Also love the emperor and the female lead's dad - General Cheng...All other
casts did a marvelous job as well...make you feel like you are part of the family...
This was made possible by excellent scripting, casting and directing, I believe.
Music: 8/10
I gave 8/10 as I have seen better music from other dramas and I had to search for the OST, like Love of Thousand Years...
Rewatch Value: 10/10
I binged read the story from the internet to ease my pain and agony from the wait...I rewatched several episodes while waiting for the new ones to air so I should give more than 10....lol
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Overly smart, stubborn and disrespecting elders and others
Am I the only who thinks that the first part, the FL getting away all the troubles she makes? She always says she is not lucky but in the end she is very lucky for not getting punished for disrepecting elders even her parents, troubles to other nobles, talking back to everyone that it seems she is the one that is always right, and the other opinion is always wrong. I guessed, this is what they called plot armor. It should always protect the FL and shows independent, smart and strong attitude. This will not work in the typical asian family 😆Was this review helpful to you?
