Disappointing, “The Prisoner of Beauty” fails to deliver beyond shallow romance and stale acting
I really tried to enjoy The Prisoner of Beauty, but honestly, it turned out to be one of the most childish drama I’ve watched in a while.The storyline had so much potential at the beginning, but quickly became silly, repetitive, and full of immature conflicts. The plot relied too much on overused tropes like random jealousy, constant bickering, and unrealistic misunderstandings that felt more annoying than entertaining.
The political setup faded into the background and what was left was a shallow romance with forced drama.
A lot of the scenes made no sense and felt more like a fantasy written by teenagers than a well-developed historical drama. I kept watching hoping it would get better but it never did.
As for the cast, the only thing I genuinely liked was the female lead’s beauty, she’s stunning on screen and had a great presence. But even her acting couldn’t save the poor writing.
Liu Yuning as the male lead Wei Shao was a huge letdown. Once again, he plays the same cold, possessive, emotionally stunted character I’ve seen him do too many times before.
His performance felt flat and predictable with little emotional range or growth.
The character was immature, controlling and sometimes his face is unpleasant to watch.
It’s disappointing to see him stuck in this type of role again and again it feels like he’s not even trying to challenge himself at all.
And I’m quite surprised this drama has such a high rating on this site.
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Its alright,nothing special
It was alright but a little slow. Im used to wuxia dramas with alot of martial arts and sword fighting and stuff so this ones a bit slow but I love Liu Yuning so ill watch the whole thing. The beggining and the ending episodes were great but the middle episodes were pretty slow. Also not to be mean but the female lead,while her acting is fine, her voice is so annoying, she talks like a baby and is so quiet even when shes mad and stuff its unrealistic,i wish she would talk in a normal voice not that baby voice. I personally would not add to me rewatch list,but hey i guess everything cant be a masterpiece. I give it a 7 out of 10 and thats a bit generous.Was this review helpful to you?
SOOO GEWD!!!
Love everything about this drama!!!1. Storyline
Whoever wrote d script adapted from d novel, I salute you. They make the storyline and d characters arch so much better than the novel. No nonsense dialogue, all serving a purpose.
2. Chemistry
Mannn I love d FL and ML, as well as d fluffiest and most adorable 2nd ML FL. The main bunch and the LOVE COUNSELOR, oh I love him and his expressions 🤣🤣🤣
3. Cinematography
Love them and d high quality DI.
4. OST
YUNING I LOVE YOU AND UR VOICE.. 🔥🔥🔥
5. Scenes
Its amazing how they can make d simple moments so adorable. You will be smiling non stop while watching like a fool.. I know I did
RECOMMENDED TO WATCH! Hooked since 1st episode!!!
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Another overrated nonsense drama
The Prisoner of Beauty is a shallow and unbalanced story that relies too heavily on surface-level romance. It focuses almost entirely on the female lead’s beauty and wit, reducing the plot to repeated scenes of admiration and flattery with little substance. The male lead, a supposed lord, lacks any real intelligence or strategic depth—especially in scenes involving war or politics.While the female lead is clearly written to shine, her intelligence is exaggerated to the point where it overshadows everything else, and her performance comes off as overacting. The fight scenes are mediocre at best, with no real tension or clever strategy, making it hard to take any conflict seriously. A once-talented actress is trapped in a role that gives her little more to do than flaunt beauty and outsmart everyone with ease, leaving the entire drama feeling flat and one-dimensional.
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The Prisoner of Beauty: A Promising Start Lost in Slow Pacing and Emotional Flatness
I’m currently on ep 20, It’s decent at times, but nothing particularly impressive. The drama drags in places and lacks emotional impact. I expected a serious political story with real tension, but instead it feels more like a historical slice of life that goes nowhere. Even with a sociopolitical backdrop, the overly light, comedic tone prevents any real immersion. Action scenes offer no suspense or sense of danger, and many sequences linger on trivial details. Cinematographically, there are no memorable shots, and visually the series fails to leave an impression. A tighter pacing or fewer episodes would have made a big difference.Episodes 1 to 12 were promissing, but the plot quickly becomes predictable. The overall tone leans toward comedy rather than seriousness, making it hard to fully engage with the story.
The characters suffer from the same problem they often feel like they’re on summer camp. they are hollow, conveying little depth or emotion. Even the emperor seems oddly familiar with his soldiers. All sense of protocol or professional distance is gone, leaving interactions empty and superficial. The characters themselves which further undermines credibility.
The romance is equally underwhelming. The leads barely interact, and the few scenes they share feel rushed and stagnant. At this point, the relationship barely progresses, and i feel no spark or butterflies at all when the're together.
Finally, the displayed tags are misleading. Viewers might expect a serious political drama, but “comedy” and “slice-of-life” would be far more accurate. Proper tagging would save time and set clearer expectations personally, I felt misled.
For now, I’m putting the drama on pause. I haven’t decided whether I’ll drop it or continue. At this point, I’d rate it a 6.7/10.
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This review may contain spoilers
The Prisoner of 'Inner' Beauty.
The name of the drama should have been "The Prisoner of Inner Beauty.". The leading couple were both good looking and physically attracted to each other. But it was their inner beauty, that is, their love for their people and their selflessness that won them over and endeared them to each other. This was what enabled their eventual love for and complete trust in one another.The enemies to lovers troupe was very well done but the whole story itself, in terms of its essence and purpose, was not logical. Because the actual enemy of Wei State that caused the problem from the beginning was Bianzhou. Li Su was simply a general serving Bianzhou. Yanzhou betrayed Wei, but they were not the real cause of what happened to Wei, neither were they the ones who started the conflict. They were a victim just as Wei was, only that they failed to come to Wei's rescue.
Added to the above setback, the drama started off very strong, lost steam a little in the middle and looked like it was going to regain momentum towards ep 30, but plummeted from ep 33. It was interesting up to ep 32 and then poor and rushed to the end. The problem was not about the ending being happy or sad but about it being bad. It would have been better if the last 4 episodes were not included. They were unecessary, poorly written, and executed. The plots in those 4 episodes made no sense and made the main themes of the story pointless. Like doing 180 degrees on the themes. If you must include more episodes, then make sure they are good and they deliver a befitting climax.
I started to watch cdramas beginning of 2024 and have seen several, even some released as far back as 2019. In all the different genres, and including popular ones, only about two had really good and well executed endings. So, I have to agree with those who have said that cdrama writers, and content producers, do not know how to write good endings, especially for their period/historical dramas.
However, for this drama, the work done to create some complex characters and fully develop their arc, especially those of the leading couple and Wei Yan, was brilliant. The characters of the two main antagonists were weak, though. As if they were intentionally made to be dumb. In all, the actors and two directors did a fantastic job. They saved the day for the drama!
I enjoyed the comedy, too, with the bantering of the four generals of Wei Shao and his adviser. As well as the silly comedic exchanges between the leading couple. I don't think I can get past those hilarious statements like: "Shame on Wei Shao!"; "...Wei Shao, get up!, get up!! get up!!!"; and of course, "...my lord...why can't you say something nice...is your mouth on FIRE.".
As to the romance of the leading couple, it was engaging, and the chemistry between them was undeniably strong. If only they stayed true to it and didn't have to over milk it in ep32 to the point of it becoming too much acting. The way they portrayed the love they shared the first time they wanted to cunsummate their marriage was very real and believable as it revealed their vulnerability and sincerity. It was all about the two of them. But the second time, which was the actual consummation, fell short of these beautiful elements. Are they deeply in love with each other and want to express this for the first time just for the sake of having a child or children? So, will he stop loving her if she is unable to give him a child? The message here is flawed. Then added to this was the over acting, which almost started to feel like a perfume commercial. And oh, those statements just give the cringe, "...how about giving me a child...and I want it now..." He is being intimate with his beloved wife for the first time and what is on his mind is a child and not to simply please her, still?
Though Wei Shao later told his mother that children come by fate. But this only contradicts what he was asking for, as an expression of love, the first time he was going to be physically intimate with his wife whom he loves so much. This contradiction which occured in the next episode is just another one of the reasons why the last 4 episodes were unnecessary. What would have been more realistic was for the consummation of their marriage to have happened at the inn. When Wei Shao finally genuinely opened up about his deep hatred for the Qiao clan, which he admitted was still lingering, but then stated his willingness to completely let go of it.
Overall, this drama would have been okay if it had ended in ep 32, or had a few more episodes that were more realistic, convincing, and properly executed. Then there is still the question mark hanging on the essence and purpose of the story in the first place. The whole story would have been plausible, cogent and relatable if Wei had attacked Li Su and Bianzhou first. The enemies to lovers troupe was great, but in the end, the story and main plot were weak because they were driven by a cause and effect thematic element that completely lacked logic.
Please do not read further if you don't want major spoilers.
About the plots. There were many repetitive sub-plots, several plot holes, and some plots were inconclusive. Here are some of the repetition:
1. One clan betrayed the same other clan - 2 times.
2. Sabotage in the granary - 2 times.
3. Sick leader dying in one state - 2 times
4. River as trap for military troops - 2 times
5. Take over of one city - 3 times!
6. Woman seeking to be empress and marrying leaders who truly loved her - 3 times! Well, the first one was a betrothal.
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Captivating Must Watch!
If you're craving an epic enemies-to-lovers story set against a stunning historical backdrop, The Prisoner of Beauty is pure perfection. This drama is a visual feast from start to finish—gorgeous cinematography, intricate costumes, and breathtaking production design that transports you straight into the world of feuding clans and political intrigue. The pacing is spot-on, blending heart-pounding tension with tender moments that keep you hooked episode after episode.The chemistry between the leads is electric and undeniable, creating some of the most captivating romantic dynamics I've seen in a C-drama this year. Song Zu'er shines with her poised, resilient beauty and sharp intelligence, bringing depth and grace to her role. But let's talk about the true standout: Liu Yuning as the male lead. Oh my gosh—he absolutely owns the screen! His portrayal is magnetic, brooding, and intensely charismatic, with that scorching gaze and commanding presence that makes every scene he's in unforgettable. He's tall, imposing, and exudes raw masculinity while delivering nuanced emotions that draw you in completely. Liu Yuning elevates the entire drama with his powerful performance, proving once again why he's one of the most talented and captivating actors out there. His aura is unmatched—devastatingly handsome in ancient attire, with micro-expressions that convey so much depth and intensity.
The supporting cast is fantastic too, and the OST (especially tracks involving Liu Yuning's voice) is emotional and perfectly suited to the scenes. Overall, this is easily one of the best dramas of 2025—romantic, engaging, and beautifully crafted. Highly recommend for anyone who loves strong leads and swoon-worthy romance!
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The Prisoner of Beauty reminds us: even in captivity, love can rule a kingdom.
The Prisoner of Beauty is, without a doubt, one of the strongest dramas of 2025 so far. From the very first episode, the story hooks its audience with a perfect blend of tension, elegance, and heart. The enemy-to-lovers trope is executed brilliantly, layered with political intrigue and power struggles that keep you invested until the very end.What makes this drama stand out is not just its romance, but its balance between love and ambition. The characters aren’t reduced to simple archetypes; instead, they feel alive, constantly torn between personal emotions and the greater stakes of survival and power. This complexity elevates the story beyond a typical historical romance—it feels both grand and intimate at once.
The pacing is another strength. Every arc feels purposeful, building toward an ending that is both satisfying and memorable. So many costume C-dramas fall short in the finale with rushed resolutions or unreasonable twists, but The Prisoner of Beauty delivers what fans have long hoped for: a well-written, emotionally resonant conclusion that honors the story and its characters. Impressively, the drama’s storytelling is even more beautifully executed than the original novel itself—something rare and worth praising.
A huge part of the drama’s success comes from the cast. Song Zuer and Liu Yu Ning deliver their best performances yet—the intensity and vulnerability they bring to their roles elevate the entire drama. Their chemistry is beyond saving: raw, magnetic, and utterly convincing, it makes every shared glance and confrontation pulse with emotion. It’s the kind of pairing that lingers with you long after the credits roll.
It’s a drama that leaves you empty in the best way—because you’ve lived and felt so much with its characters that saying goodbye feels bittersweet. With its careful storytelling, standout performances, and powerful ending, The Prisoner of Beauty sets a high standard for 2025 dramas and beyond.
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This review may contain spoilers
The BEST of 2025 | Mr Hot N' Cold and his harbinger of harmony and peace | Carry and hold me close.
"All my days to come, you alone hold my reins." - Wei ShaoThis drama is perfect for me and my costume drama cravings! The story was clearly narrated and the actors executed their respective roles magnificently.
The plot was well planned and greatly played out—There's almost no plot hole during the entire duration of the drama aside from a very minor one which is the timeline of Manman's (FL) pregnancy and delivery that felt sooner that it should be; given that Liu Yan (Liangya Lord) mentioned that he just lose to Wei Shao (Wei Lord) but decided to strike back again later on. which is weird because at that time Manman just got pregnant and but already gave birth during the war. Not sure if it was a missed or they just failed to give out proper notation on timeskips.
Story progression, phasing and unfolding of plots were spectacularly done. I was never bored and it didn't felt dragged out at all. They provided us the right amount of scenes and content each episode and none of them felt wasted for some odd reason. I would say that the scenes are well directed, intelligently utilized and edited and fused together efficiently.
The romance development between the main leads as an enemy turned to lover felt authentic. It was presented using the most reasonable and rational way as they were both able to showcase their worries and inhibitions; at the same time, address their emotions and sentiments without disregarding one another. I appreciate that they didn't suddenly forget their resentments but instead showed us more of the process they went through to figure out and overcome their grievances to ultimately attain peace and forgiveness. I love that they let us witness the leads emotional growth from being insensitive and oblivious, to gradually grasping their intentions and finally, fully understading one another's pain and sufferings. They're such a lovely couple! <3
The supporting roles (4 Wei Generals, Xiao Tan and Xiao Tao) truly contributed a lot in making this show very enjoyable. I love all of their bickering moments and wished that we could have gotten more. I still feel a sting whenever I remember Wei Liang's death and the whole gang and Xiao Tao's reaction...
Liu Yan's (Liangya lord) death is well deserved but I think Su E Huang/Yulou's death was wayyy to lenient. That woman wasn't suitable for the hysteria shits then to only commit suicide afterwards. Instead, she deserves a slow and excruciating death. She was so lucky with all her men but the problem is SHE herself.
The set, costume and overall design are simple yet shouts opulence. The color schemes for this drama leans towards monochromatic and complementary colors which complemented the overall visual aspects and dynamics of the show.
Additionally, Song Zhu Er's beauty was highlighted on this drama so much that I ended up gawking on her every appearance and I can't stop complimenting how beautiful and attactive she is. I was so enticed that anyone might even possibly see and feel my adoration and love for her. Her visual is crazy!!
The ending seemed a bit rushed and inadequate yet satisfying; and in all honesty, I would still prefer it that way. I expected more actions during the war but at the same felt satisfied that they showed us only the most important scenes. At least that way, we were able to avoid any more death scenes. So I guess, I wanna thank the writers and director for not killing more of our beloved characters. Cause that would traumatize me for sure. Haha!
P.S. Their "Love scene" on Ep.32 were short yet scorching hot and mouth-watering. This is my first time in a long while to feel this extreme tension from two people making out. I totally lose it during the scene where Wei Shao was seemingly challenging Manman to somehow own him and show her dominance. Oh man! The intensity and tension was so palpable, I almost drowned watching them. Haha!—Take note that they were only kissing and didn't even show us any sex scenes. Their chemisty and compatibility is simply insane!
I also just wanna leave my favorite phrase here:
"People say I am gentle as water, thinking a dam can hold me back, but there's one thing they forget. Only when water flows smoothly is it calm, If wind blocks or earth hinders it, all it does is stir up high waves." - Qiao Man/Xiao Qiao
Story - 10, I think I am biased but who cares? Haha! I honestly feel like every single aspect of this drama fell on its proper perfect places so I got no complains at all...and even if I have had, they all made it up by making everything else into perfection. So it basically heavily outweights all mishaps there is. All I can say is that I am extremely satisfied with this show and is my favorite drama this 2025.
Acting/Cast - 10, Magnificent set of artists! I also wanna say that Song Zhu Er is now part of my most favorite C-Actress of all all time. I am repentant for only discovering her recently and I should've checked out her projects sooner! Anyways, Liu Yu Ning's eyes gave off this ruthless and deadly vibe—specially when he's mad— that makes him more charismatic and handsome. While Song Zhu Er on the has this peaceful vibe that will make you feel at awe of her and her beauty. Acting was phenomenal and once she cries you, you will immediately feel like crying as well.
Music - 10, One of the few C่-dramas which music truly caught my attention. The songs are nice and beautiful. My favorite would be 故城雪 (Snow in Ancient City) ~ this song captures the cold and warmth in me. Such melancholic yet lovely song. <3
Rewatch Value - 10, My most favorite drama this 2025 and definitely on my Top 10 c-drama of all time. A drama I will not get tired watching.
Overall - 10, This is not a drill. GO AND FREAKING WATCH IT!! Every about this drama is great and I would ultimately recommend it to everyone. The drama which I finished in less than 3 days in almost 2-3 year. <3
IF you find my review helpful please let me know.
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A medley of complex, relatable characters in a refreshing execution *SPOILERS*
Plot discussion:Born enemies but brought together with a shared duty to the people. I cannot express how fascinated I am with Wei Shao Qiao Man couple. It was so refreshing to see how well they understood each other and the absolute trust they both had in each other despite the underlying fact that they were raised as enemies. I also enjoyed the development of the Bi Zhi Qiao Fan couple as well. We will get into that later. Su Ehuang made a very interesting villain that I would also like to discuss later.
The Wei Shao and Qiao Man pairing worked despite their family histories because they both shared a common goal and that was putting the people first and working towards realm peace and prosperity. The absolute trust they had in each other and all the communication that happened between them were so refreshing to watch. Su Ehuang tried everything to separate them but their complete trust in the other was so strong that Ehuang's attempt was nothing more than an annoying pest. After every argument, they sat down and communicated how they felt, why they did what they did and all conflicts were resolved. They listened to each other, understood, and made changes to themselves so that their relationship could grow. In the beginning, Wei Shao's actions were completely out of his own need: He opened her mail in front of his subordinates, not thinking about how she would have felt; he used her Qiao family to belittle her; he forced her to pick Wei clan over her own family. I often think about how hard it was for Manman to go through an entire year, not only living in an unknown enemy territory but also to have to completely cut off all her memories of the people who raised her and who she grew up with. How can she sit still while the Weis constantly made remarks about how scheming and evil the Qiaos are? At the end, Wei Shao changes; he realized how difficult it must have been for her and even reminds her that she never was and never is at fault for what happens between the clans. He was willing to set aside his pride and his hatred to visit her family to actively understand them as people and not just as the scheming Qiaos. What have I learned from this couple? That marriage takes a willingness to change for the better of both parties.
All the times that Wei Shao was in war, he placed complete trust in Manman to back him up (when she could not borrow Boya forces) and protect Yujun in his absence (when she was literally pregnant). That last battle was definitely killing two birds with one stone. On one hand, Wei Shao trusted Manman so much that he did not have to turn around. In the other hand, he knew the world came before their little family. He was willing to put an entire 4 generation's worth on the line if it meant he could save the world. The cherry on top? Not only was Manman in complete agreement with his decision, she was even worried about whether or not HE would survive, completely brushing over the fact that HER life was also on the line; completely shooting down Su Ehuang's intended blow.
All this aside, I am a little confused as to what kind of person Manman is supposed to be outside of the fact that she deeply cares about the people. When we are first introduced to her, she is said to be intelligent and is shown to be a woman of few words. Even as she married into Wei clan, she absolutely displayed her compassion and wit in handling home affairs in a way that still maintained the family's, as well as her own, reputation. The drama did also show snippets of her feisty personality when she and Wei Shao got in their first big fight and again when she had too much to drink. I am confused as to whether she is meant to be an untamable, feisty female lead or is she a quiet, gentle, soft character?
A Fan is different from Manman. From the beginning, we already know that her aspirations are smaller; she just wanted to live a peaceful life with Bi Zhi. It was just unfortunate for them that they were caught in a bad time. Manman guided A Fan into convincing Bi Zhi to take up his position as a general. While, with good intentions, was their ultimate downfall. When Manman rides to Boya to request aid from A Fan, she is turned away because not everyone is meant to be a hero. A Fan does not need to save the world, and truly she owes the world nothing. Some people can argue that Bi Zhi had this position of power in the first place because Manman made it possible and how ungrateful A Fan is. I don't agree with this argument. Manman, while also worrying about her cousin's well-being, also had ulterior motives for pushing Bi Zhi into the position as general. She was weary of her marriage to Wei Shao and had to make a plan B in case the marriage failed. Bi Zhi's character is simple; his sole goal in life is to make A Fan happy and he is willing to go to any lengths to please her. And the result? He is clutching her in her dying moments as he expresses his regret in becoming a general in the first place. He really was not meant to be one. Like A Fan, his aspiration was simple and that was just to live out his days peacefully with her. Two hearts with one simple dream caught in a storm and didn't make it out alive. I don't understand the people blaming A Fan. How many people can put their whole life, the love of their life, the father of their unborn child on the line for a world of people you don't even know? The Bi Zhi and A Fan pairing was absolutely a perfect juxtaposition to the Wei Shao and Manman pairing but the former felt so much more relatable.
It is so easy to be caught up in your own misfortune that you can't see how fortunate you are; that is the very definition of Su Ehuang. While yes, how unfortunate that her lover dies EVERY TIME, but how fortunate it is that they all loved her with all their hearts. Su Ehuang did everything out of self-preservation but quite frankly, I cannot use her poor background as justification for her egocentric behavior because she makes evil decisions EVERY TIME. Su Ehuang was given so many chances and had a choice to live a better life but she was constantly drawn to hurting others like a moth drawn to a flame. I was caught by surprise by the extent she was willing to go to get what she wanted. A lot of times, dramas won't be as "gruesome", if you will, but I was surprised at the cruelty I witnessed as the audience. She always realized it too late. In the end, she blamed it on fate that she missed her love every time but really, she turned a blind eye to her fortune out of an insecurity that she was not enough and her power-hungry addiction. Honestly an intriguing villain because I do think it is easy to fall into self-pity and forget to see how fortunate you really are. What did I learn? Start a gratitude journal and don't focus on your misfortunes; it really isn't good for you lol.
I don't have much to say about the Wei Liang and Xiaotao pairing. Really just another couple caught in the wrong time.
Casting:
Casting was excellent! I have always been a fan of Liu YuNing. Maybe my type is just tall? I think Song ZuEr is starting to grow on me. I know much of the plot revolves around her being absolutely gorgeous and to be completely honest, she did not quite his the nail on the head for me at the beginning. I wasn't used to seeing Xuan Lu in a villain role but am so glad that she got a chance to try something different and she did great! Ao Zi Yi tho was IMMACULATE casting! From when we were first introduced to Qiao Ci, Ao Zi Yi perfectly captures the innocent, naive warrior look. A Ci is a little awkward but that was his charm! How Ao Zi Yi carried himself in this role absolutely shows me a little warrior who is a little hot-headed from his lack of experience but is also humble also from his lack of experience. While a great warrior, was not arrogant. Overall great selection!
Music:
Liu YuNing. Singing. Heroic music. Need I say more?
Overall a very enjoyable experience! I'm surprised I did not cry. Instead, I learned so much more about what I can do personally to improve myself. Highly recommend.
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slow-burn romance
This drama completely understands my love for slow-burn romance. Nothing is rushed. Every look, every pause, every moment of tension means something. The relationship builds slowly through mistrust, restraint, and emotional distance — and that’s exactly what makes it so powerful.What I loved most is how the romance isn’t loud or forced. It simmers. You feel the longing before it’s ever spoken. The male lead is intense but controlled, and the female lead is strong without losing her softness. Their connection grows naturally, and when emotions finally break through, it feels incredibly satisfying.
This is the kind of love story that stays with you — not because of grand gestures, but because of the quiet emotional weight behind every scene.
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Best value!
This showhas got to be a contender for the best of the best! From the story line to the costumes, cast, music, stunts, comedy...I just loved it!I loved seeing the 2 leads grow and mature, especially the ML. His ignorance was cute, & I liked how he was open to suggestions & learning from every experience.
I love how lovey-dovey ml & fl were, it truly made me jealous🤢🤗.
The ending did feel a bit rushed, but didn’t detract much from how enjoyable the entire show was. I wish every drama would score as well as this one,
Thanks, MDL fam, your reviews & comments lead me to watch this drama & I'm so glad I did!
I hope my review will help others as well.
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