Love Like the Galaxy: Part 1

THIS REVIEW IS FOR BOTH PARTS 1 & 2.

Such an entertaining drama, no less expected from one of the rising actors in China, Zhao Lu Si who chooses good scripts. Her portrayal of a smart but unruly young woman is a hoot, as she captured the interests of many highly eligible young men, including the icy, cold General Ling Bu Yi. Because of her antics, Shao Shang managed to irate many of the ladies that have been vying for Bu Yi's attention for years, as well many of her elders who thought they can undermine Shao Shang's "lowly" position in the society, despite being the youngest daughter of a general.

Though her father dotes on Shao Shang, perhaps feeling guilty for the years of abandonment, her mother, on the other hand, is very strict on her daughter, leaving the latter to think that she was unloved. For her part, Shao Shang does absolutely nothing to make up for loss time as she still held a grudge for the neglect and had become wary of anybody who shows her affection. Bu Yi is the same, as he plots and plans his revenge upon the death of his clan, even at the expense of others.

I loved the intricacy of the narrative and the political/familial/societal drama is riveting, aided by a talented ensemble and diverse characters. I also liked the show's attempt at humor, for example, Shao Shang's dad, the King and Bu Yi's sidekick serving as comedic relief. For all the people in the court that are conniving and greedy for power, I appreciated the fact the the Queen and the King's consort (mistress) get along well and respectful of each other.

The only drawback in this drama is that there are some instances where, to me, the happy ending seems forced and neatly tied in a bow. I would have been fine with Bu Yi's death, as it was for me, so farfetched that he managed to survive despite the dangers befalling him. Also for me was Shao Shang's self-righteousness and how she treated Bu Yi. Her character development seemed weak for me, and sometimes wished she was her bright, spritely self like she was in the beginning. Otherwise, a very good drama.

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The classic well done

This review might be biased because I've already watched part two and didn't like it.

I liked the chemistry between the love interests (especially Yao and Niao Niao), and the way everything is portrayed, including the protagonist's aunt's relationship.

I like the character, even though she's not particularly strong, intelligent, or clever, she's an easy person to sympathize with and whose actions were quite human.

I enjoy dramas set in a family environment with everyday conflicts, so this is to my taste. The mother-daughter, grandmother-granddaughter, brother-sister, and especially father-daughter relationships were all very well done.

My only complaint is the pacing of the drama, which is very slow.

Overall, I'd say it's a 7 out of 10 drama; it doesn't do anything wrong, but it doesn't offer anything particularly special either.

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Very unique plot

Starting off, I'll just say that I've never watched a series where FL actually associates so closely to another guy - LuoYao. It was a very very adorable relationship and I even got confused momentarily to whom the ML was. But it was interesting how this prior relationship actually means something to the plot, and not just a simple stepping stone to FL and ML's relationship.

I love the exploration of family dynamics. Mostly seen through the family interaction of FL with her long-lost parents, it's interesting how its often a lot more difficult to maintain a good relationship within a family, but even so, they still love each other greatly. Family interaction is less seen in part 2, with more of the politics going on, so I quite treasure the scenes which explore FL's relationship with her family members.

Another thing I really liked, was how this was one of the rare series where the Monarchy wasn't trashy and stupid. The King was incredibly wise, and took care of his children, and especially so for LingBuYi. The Queen and the Royal Consort are both noble women, and they do not act stupidly like many royalties in other series like to. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said by the prince and princess, but then again, it wouldn't make sense if all the royalties had really acted as their noble title suggests.

FL and ML's relationship develops more in the latter half, as FL used to harbour suspicion towards ML, and did not like him due to his nature of being a war general. Personally, I did not think they're relationship got off to a great start, with both ML and FL having quite conflicting personalities. But I look forward to its development in Part 2.

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Stunning Visuals, Weak Plot, Strong Cast – Wu Lei Steals the Show

With high expectations set by the stellar cast and glowing reviews, I was disappointed that this show didn't fully live up to its potential. However, there were some bright spots. Wu Lei's performance during emotional scenes was outstanding, and Zhao Lusi's more nuanced character was a pleasant surprise compared to her previous roles. The supporting cast, including familiar faces like Wang Zhuo Cheng, was a delight and brought charm to an otherwise predictable story.

The plot, unfortunately, felt simplistic and often dragged. With only a few truly exciting moments across 56 episodes, much of the story lacked tension, and the heavy use of 'plot armor' for the main characters made the stakes feel low. The first half leaned too much into comedy, with the grandmother's departure being a relief. The betrayals were predictable, and the so-called 'twists' rarely packed a punch, either revealed too early or centered on minor characters.

Despite this, some characters stood out. Lou Yao’s development was a highlight, and the comedic duo of A'Qi and A'Fei provided some genuinely funny moments. While it was never in doubt who would win Cheng Shaoshang's hand, Yuan Shanjian’s disappointing arc felt like a missed opportunity.

Visually, the cinematography is stunning, and the music enhances the emotional beats, but the uninspired plot drags the show down. Overall, it's worth watching for Wu Lei’s incredible acting—but just once.

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Not Fully Engaging Yet

So far, I’ve watched the first part and my experience has been a bit mixed.

The drama has a solid foundation and good production quality, but the pacing felt quite slow for me, with a lot of repetitive situations, especially in the palace storyline. Because of that, the story didn’t feel very engaging in this first section.

The main female lead was definitely the most interesting part for me. I enjoyed her character and acting more than the male lead, who didn’t fully connect with me in terms of character design and presence. Some supporting characters were also more entertaining and visually interesting, which sometimes made the main storyline feel less engaging.

Even though I didn’t fully connect with the pacing and some character dynamics in this first half, I still recognize the quality of the production and storytelling structure. I will continue with the second part to see if the story becomes more engaging and if the character relationships develop in a more satisfying way.

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Zhao Lusi is exceptional and phenominal

Love Like The Galaxy is giving us different emotions. FL x ML are perfect for this drama and the story is a roller coaster ride. Zhao Lusi is giving us the best of her. Leo Wu is dashing and perfect for this role, they are perfect for this drama. im excited to watch every episode and it's just getting better everytime. im glad it has season 2, ZL is the best, a talented young lady..i fell inlove with her and her acting the first time i watched her drama. Im looking forward for every episode everyday..Episode 8 gave me so much happiness and laughter. CSS was hilarious..her antics gets me everytime. She's smart and clever lady perfect for Ling Buyi who's serious and strict. im excited for their upcoming sweet interactions. thankful for all people who made this drama possible. Enjoy watching..this is the best.

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Love like the galaxy superhit great to watching!

Based on novel the drama very interesting with perfect casting by two leads superpower natural young actor and actress..their acting superbs, zhao lusi as usual give extraordinary performance with great facial expressions and continuos her chemistry with Leo wu Ling buyi..
I believe the name nao nao (shaoshang)& general ling buyi their epic of love romance and the family background within their greater experience and exposure will leave the best and long term effection to audience..the story itself really great with combination the greatest work form director screenwriter plus all great and familyhood from other casting so it really give u feel u watch drama with the big n lovely family ..also the cinematography and screen it’s really excellent within unexceptional give u impact like watching romantic movies with family theme and two powerful leads ..wow that’s the feel..really recommended 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

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A Brutal Study of Child Neglect Disguised as "Domestic Comedy"

The first half of this show is an exercise in frustration. Zhao Lusi is phenomenal as a girl who has been marginalized, bullied, and abandoned by a cold, calculating mother and a monstrously selfish grandmother. You feel her isolation and her brilliance as she outwits the bullies of the capital. However, the narrative issues start early: the show tries to make the grandmother’s abuse "funny" with silly music and slapstick antics.
Watching the ML (Wu Lei) enter the frame with such intensity and pain is the only thing that keeps you going. You hope for an epic about two broken people finding justice, but even here, the Emperor’s "funny grandpa" act is clearly a mask for a weak leader who allows a 15-year-old girl to be a political scapegoat. It’s a slow-burn setup that hints at greatness but is already showing signs of the twisted logic to come.

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Above average, and will only get better!

OVERALL
This is the first half of the drama (not sure why it's split but sure), and it's a good one. I'd say just watch. Although not perfect, this drama has so much good stuff going on, it's worth the try. But if you really, really don't like silly female leads or slow burn romance, then you might want to reconsider.

THE STORY
I wasn't sure what I'd get into when I started this drama. Turns out it's a bit bipolar, alternating between serious/dramatic vibes and comical/sometimes over-the-top scenes, but it still works, and I'm hooked!

The best
- 3D characters who are flawed, have fears and have traumas to overcome. Female lead and Male lead even have relationship growth, which is an amazing bonus!
- Linked to the above is the super well developed family dynamics in Female lead's family, which are not usually so deep in other dramas and which I hope are going to evolve.
- I'm not a huge fan of the "love at first sight" trope, but this drama does it beautifully. Male lead has more of a case of "interest at first sight" that gradually turns into love, which makes more sense.
- There is a second Male lead in this first half of the drama, he's quite cute and his relationship with Female lead is too. I like their story from beginning to end, it doesn't go at all as I expected, which is refreshing.
- The cinematography (filter, settings) is mature and balances out well with the slapstick and slightly immature scenes.
- You have some political intrigue going on, sometimes in the background, sometimes more up front. And for sure more is coming!
- There's also a bit of mystery surrounding Male lead's past which keeps you wondering.
- Extremely fun emperor. Don't think I've ever liked one that much before!

The worst
- Too many mean girls moments. Way. too. many. One or two is fine, but it's getting a bit repetitive. Hopefully they find other sources of conflict and problems than just evil noble ladies badmouthing the leads.
- It does take a loooong time for the romance to really kick off. Apart from a few isolated scenes, Male lead and Female lead are almost never together until ep 20. It wouldn't be that bad, if the time wasn't filled with so many mean girls scenes.
- Female lead can be too ditzy at times. I guess some people like silly female leads because they're in vogue in C-dramas, but I prefer mature and dignified female leads so it bothers me a bit. Granted, the character is supposed to be young, but still. It might throw you off if you're like me.
- There are too many characters, imo, some of which are not particularly likeable and quite useless (can someone tell me what is Yuan's purpose in the drama?). It's a bit frustrating when they get too much screentime.
- The cinematography is great, but not too sure about the costumes and makeup. They just don't seem to flatter anybody.

Overall though, this is a solid start for the drama. I'm guessing it will only get better from here, since the romance is on, the political intrigue will only get more intense and the plot will have to thicken. If you're not sure, just try it!

THE ACTING
Ok. Like I said in another drama review, there are some actors I just like. Leo Wu and Zhao Lusi are such actors. I don't think they're amazing (especially Leo, he'll improve as he gets older), but they do the trick and they have good chemistry. What else can we ask for? In general, no complaints from the rest of the cast, the older actors sometimes even outshine the younger ones.

THE MUSIC
Good enough! I really like the instrumental tracks!

REWATCH VALUE
I have to wait until the second half to truly decide, but for now, it's high (with some fast forwarding)!

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On bad childhoods and healing through finding purpose and love with the blessing of the state . . .

The premise is compelling and addictive: Ying Bu Yi - the most feared man in the empire tries and struggles to win over in all the wrong ways Cheng Shao Shang, an abandoned daughter of a military official.

Ying Bu Yi falls hard and fast for Cheng Shao Shang intensely realizing that they have this bond in a painful past and resulting resourcefulness. But Cheng Shao Shang has multiple options in life and being the star to someone else's sun or moon feels too unsettling after being let down and deprioritized multiple times in her life.

Thus sets the scene of the first half of the show. The leads have very little chemistry with each other and Ying Bu Yi wanders around in a very one note, in a fear me as I walk type way. Cheng Shao Sheng is a much more interesting and vibrant character in the first half.

THERE IS A LOT OF RESCUING, JUST ENDLESS RESCUE SCENES, which create the adrenaline, fast paced romance despite the lack of chemistry. The point made over and over and over again is when times become uncertain, wouldn't you want the most fearsome, capable person around?

Credit to the supporting actors - there's tons of them and they all had very unique personalities and I was invested in them as much (if not more so at times) than the main couple.

Music is decent, one of the instrumental pieces was quite nostalgic and wistful. Would not rewatch.

I did go on to watch part 2 - and more analysis will be there.

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PERFECT DRAMA ???

Best historical drama ever n°1, I love this drama so much it has romance comedy drama & action.

* Story:
The story is strong, excellent exciting you ain’t getting bored at all, Season 1 was hilarious, intriguing 🤣 Niao Niao is so intelligent and Ling Bu Yi So perfect intelligent handsome & so strong
* Acting:
The acting is exquisite from Wu lei & Zhao Lusi
I love them so much their chemistry is on fire 🔥 out of this world, Ling Bu Yi & Nia Niao 💕 forever in my heart.
The acting of the rest of the crew is excellent has well no doubt the whole cast was perfect for this drama. I disliked the mother so much🤬.
* Music:
The music is well selected I enjoy it a lot, it gives you the felling.
* Rewatch Value:
One hundred percent 💯 is a rewatchable is a masterpiece. The director did an remarkable job indeed.
* Overall:
MASTERPIECE
10/10

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