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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 forgot 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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Slow burn romance
Enemies to lovers story through an arranged marriage. Stunning visual-the costume and makeup department really needs applause for this show- and good chemistry between the leads. Very easy to watch each episode. Smooth flow throughout the story. The ost is good with the theme song being played often and make it stand out.Was this review helpful to you?
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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Ur typical Cliche story I have watched many times.
I think the douban score of this drama was more correct than the MDL ratings. It's very cliche n predictable story which u n I have watched many times before i.e enemies forced to be together somehow, then bonds, discovers each other's good qualities, falls in love, there r many trying to seperate them with their petty or clever schemes, most of them failing n making ml fl get more closer, some almost making them apart but then something making them come more closer again never to seperate. Ending will have final battle, some good guys will die along with bad ones n viola we get a happy ending.This story above i wrote by watching only first 12 episodes n dropped this show at 14th episode becos I knew by then i predicted the story very accurately without watching. So I don't really understand the hype n MDL ratings for this overly used troupe n cliche story that is The prisoner of beauty. Maybe I m getting old so I now don't like to watch same old wine in new bottles. ;)
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This review may contain spoilers
Completely lacked a compelling main story arc
Notes:- fantastic supporting cast. Mains were good but ML’s mother and grandmother were great, Xiao Tao and Wei Liang made an adorable and hilarious couple, the villains were villainous and Liu Duan Duan absolutely steals every scene he’s in.
- FL initially has a whole I’m brilliant and mastering statecraft but acts kinda dingy throughout. For me, A’Fan tended to show more insight, strength and self awareness.
- Bi Zhi - delicious but not showing the most depth of character. Scenes as a bad guy were a bit stiff. Still yummy.
- Didn’t make a ton of sense that anyone took Liu Yan seriously. Same with Ms Missing Nose.
- How did Wei Qu retie Wei Liang on his back with one arm?
- Ms Missing Nose needed to exit the series the same episode she entered it. Too much one dimensional drama.
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Best costume romance drama this year... so far
Story:The story actually not extraordinary, but sweet romance always a cozy escapism. I like the characterization, smart and strong-minded FL combine with grumpy but soft-heart ML make the dynamic between them unstoppable to watched. And in accordance to the title, the FL's beauty is striking, though other female characters also good looking. The one negative point of the story is the ending. I feel that the ending is a little bit rushed, not all the key characters had their satisfying conclusion. The pacing also felt too slow, as the story start to get gripping after 20s episodes.
Acting:
Song Zuer is a very pretty actress, she is one of actresses that I found very suitable to her character with beauty and witty characterization. Her acting is also high praised , she really nailed it. However, I felt down in the last episode, wish she got more portion to show her strength. For Liu Yuning, this is the second drama where I enjoy his excellent acting. The first one is The Journey to Love. In both drama, his characterization is almost the same, I think he is most suitable for this type for character. Although he is not a typical striking handsome for the first glance, he has charisma for skillful character. For the side characters, I like all Wei Shao's generals and advisor, also Xiao Qiao's attendants.
Production: The female's costumes are beautiful, and some of the architectures and the interiors are exquisite, pleasing to watch.
Overall:
This is no doubt the best romance drama I have watched so far this year. Although I think this drama is a bit over-hyped, but watching it is like a dopamine booster for me.
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Good first 5 episodes!
Just finished watching the first 5 episodes. They were good. Song Zuer is so pretty here. Well done the production crew!I found that the characters and story a bit similar to a part of the romance of three kingdoms? Wei Shao's advisor reminded me of Zhuge Liang and on the movie The Battle of Redcliff, I remember a lady that was known to be very beautiful, similar to Xiao Qiao 🤔
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AMAZING
I love the full Cast it is a beautiful Heartfelt drama. I love the ML He is a great actor and the FL ad well Beautiful show thank you. The four guys are great as well they make it funny and relaxing 😌 Anyone that are fans should definitely watch this drama you dont want to miss this. 😉Was this review helpful to you?
The Prisoner of Beauty – Finding Love in a World of Rivalries
🔹 Have you ever watched a couple start out on opposite sides, and then slowly realize they fit better than anyone thought?📖 Overview
🔹 40 episodes, historical romance with family drama
🔹 Adapted from the web novel Zhe Yao by Peng Lai Ke
🔹 Angel Zhao as Xiao Qiao, a clever young woman who marries into the Wei family through a political match
🔹 Zhang Linghe, as Wei Shao, proud and sharp, used to getting his way but not expecting someone like her
🔹 The story begins when these two are forced together, clashing at first, but learning how to stand side by side as partners
✨ How It Felt Watching
🔹 At first, I laughed at their bickering because they tested each other constantly
🔹 Slowly, their relationship turned into something more trusting, and I found myself rooting for them
🔹 It felt less like a fairytale and more like a partnership built in small steps, with fun and painful lessons
🔹 Themes of family loyalty, forgiveness, and learning to respect each other carried the whole drama for me
🎭 Cast & Performances
🔹 Angel Zhao as Xiao Qiao: She gave her character wit and strength, always making her scenes lively
🔹 Zhang Linghe as Wei Shao: His pride worked well at first, but the way he softened later made him believable
🔹 The supporting cast added humor and layers of family conflict that made the world feel full
🎵 OST
🔹 Blazing Moon (烽月) by Liu Yu Ning
🔹 Changan Dream (长安梦) by Wu Mo Chou
🔹 Lonely Hero (孤雄) by Ayanga
🔹 Enjoy to the Fullest (须尽欢) by Curley Gao
🔹 Endlessly (不绝) by Huangzi Hong Fan
🔹 Regardless of Time (不问朝夕) by Zheng Yun Long
🔹 Spring’s Bloom (春满) by Jing Long
🔹 Not in Vain (不枉) by Wang Hong Hao
🔹 Snow in the Old City (故城雪) by Sheng Yu
✏️ I liked how the OST had Liu Yu Ning’s song, which made it feel extra personal since he’s such a fan favorite
🎨 Visuals & Production
🔹 The sets and costumes looked polished and colorful, with details that showed the care in every scene
🔹 The palace halls, family homes, and busy markets made the world feel alive and believable
🔹 The production never felt overdone; it supported the story instead of distracting from it
🏆 Final Thoughts
🔹 What stayed with me most was how this was less about winning or losing, and more about two people learning to face the world together
🔹 Would I rewatch? No, but I’m glad I watched it once for the chemistry and strong performances
☕ SpillTheDramaTea’s Rating: 8/10, a thoughtful brew, heartfelt even with its flaws
✏️ As SpillTheDramaTea ☕, this one felt like watching two people argue, stumble, and still grow closer sip by sip.
✨ Did you enjoy their slow shift from rivals to partners, or did the family drama drag too much for you?
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It's bit slow but storyline is good.
Should have more romantic chemistry scenes between FL and ML. Overall storyline is good it will make you hooked up till the end. Chemistry is very good and funny. Must watch Worth it, if you have patience to watch till the end if the storyline suits you. Overall, The Prisoner of Beauty is a must-watch if you enjoy historical romance with a touch of comedy and palace politics. While the drama could have shined even brighter with more romantic depth between the FL and ML, the chemistry that is shown is still very good and keeps the audience invested. The storyline is solid, the characters are interesting, and the humor makes the viewing experience delightful. If the storyline suits your taste and you have the patience to stay until the end, this drama is definitely worth your time.The humor, particularly in the chemistry between the leads, is another highlight. Their playful arguments, witty exchanges, and sometimes even silly interactions add a layer of charm that makes the drama stand apart from purely serious historical romances. It’s this mix of comedy and romance that makes their relationship believable and enjoyable.
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Sensational!
It took a long time but it was worth it. The cast and characters are well suited. It really has a family effect. It's intense and has a continuous rhythm. Congratulations to everyone involved! Especially the chemistry of the main couple is incredible! SongZuer is incredible as always! Ning is also acting very well!Was this review helpful to you?
Female lead was a major dissapointment
The story was promising enough and the acting was ok but the FL repeatedly used baby talk and manipulation which was enough for me to say "no more!" Ironically she was supposed to be smart and strategic so this was either just lazy writing or lazy acting. On a positive note, the maidservant Xiao Tao was hilarious and her interactions with Wei Liang would make for a great spin offWas this review helpful to you?
