A very qualified and sweet modern drama
EARLY REVIEW -Let me start off by saying I am loving the show so far....There is nothing wrong with it. I love the pace, love the cinematography. Love how good the dialogue is and how realistic the scenes are. The story is intriguing and chemistry is more than what I could ask for.
But hear me out, I have a problem with the characterizations. Especially the FL. She seems a bit..2D. The initial scenes where she books a hotel and says "I'm the mature one" made me think I have a lot to look forward to, only to be disappointed by what happened in almost every scene afterwards. She seems like a pretty, rich, protected girl who couldn't get a thing done on her own or have a thought of her own. I genuinely don't see her taking a decision about anything. She seems like the girl who acts pretty dumb and leads on every single guy and accepts every other act of love, only to leave them in the end for a better option. She verbally never confirmed the relation, whereas the poor ML flaunts her as his girlfriend everywhere he goes. When her friend asks "How is it gonna work long distance" she pretty much says "she didn't think about it" which is idk something a clueless school girl would say. She has no idea where it is going and mind you she is at a point in her life where she is figuring out her career.
I have some irks about the ML too. Like how has he never approached a girl before but brings his A game to the table? He almost acts cocky, like a person must have lived with a girl to gain such kind of confidence with those
I have watched till Episode 8 and my reaction started to change too.
Yes, it has been mostly nice so far but I am having trouble with the fact that they show the main leads as one-true-love but but… there is no strong basis for any of it. The leads have barely talked to each other. There has not been one decent conversation between them on ANY topic.
It still feels too ‘young love’ to me where it is all about chemical attraction. Why do you both like other so much? First couple of episodes, I was okay with it but in episode 7-8, the guy is constantly trying to touch her (which okay.. I get that you are madly attracted to her… and she seems into you) but she keeps running away and ya all have not really talked about ANYTHING. Please try to actually have a conversation.
Also, the guy is supposed to be shy and severe and the girl, too young and inexperienced but they are 27 and 21. Not that young. It is a bit hard to watch them behave like teenagers. It feels a bit inconsistent.
I think I would have even been okay if there wasn’t the constant…’I can’t help but lean in to try to kiss you’!
FINAL REVIEW -
A very qualified and sweet modern drama, I feel it's surpassing even the sweetness portrayed in the novel.
Especially the male lead Wu Lei, embodies my ideal type with his starry eyes, and captivating jawline, despite his youthfulness, he exudes a strong sense of masculinity.
Both leads deliver very stable performances that are both sweet and convincing. The plot avoids excessive melodrama and unnecessary separations to ensure audience satisfaction; it is a very decent drama.
Particularly noteworthy is Wu Lei's transformation into a truly sexy and charming character as he matures throughout the drama. His tender affectionate gaze towards the female lead deeply immerses me in their love story! He portrays an enamored boyfriend who longs for possession of his beloved woman.
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This review may contain spoilers
Love amidst snowstorm, billiards and naps
I've watched Wu Lei in Nothing but You and since I prefer modern romance, I was excited for this series. 'Amidst a Snowstorm of Love' was very much talked about when it was released in early 2024. I started watching this series in late October 2024 to hype myself for a trip to Chengdu (where Wu Lei grew up). Oh dear, I struggled with this series. I paused this series after episode 11 and restarted when I wanted to watch something while cutting papers for work.What I liked:
1) Bromance - I love the dynamics between Lin Yiyang, Jiang Yang and Meng Xiaodong. I was relief that there was no bitterness between Yiyang and Xiaodong despite their childhood rivalry. Yiyang - Jiang Yang interactions were also delightful to watch.
2) Acting - Standouts are Wu Lei, Chen Jing Ke and Wang Xing Yue! Wang Xing Yue carried himself very well - his character is same aged or slightly younger as Wu Lei's (27 years old at start of series) but in real life, Wang Xing Yue was only 21 years old during filming.
3) Supporting characters - I really like Wu Wei, Jiang Yang, Meng Xiao Dong, Lin Lin, Chen An An and the endearing Meng Xiao Ting.
What I disliked:
1) Yin Guo characterisation - Sadly the female lead is underdeveloped. There was no character growth - she remained childlike & naive even with 2 time jumps. She never struggled because everything was handled by Yiyang or her family.
2) The romance - Sadly it is lackluster to the point that I fast forward all Yiyang-Yin Guo scenes to 1.5x speed. I didn't buy their love because their love being developed. Yiyang was smitten at first sight of Yin Guo, which is quite unnerving because he didn't know her personality but he already falling for her [looks and childlike behaviour, I guess?]. Yiyang even admitted in episode 20-something that he had only shown the best side of him to Yin Guo but not his worst side. I also don't like that Yin Guo was coy when there was nobody around. They had already been intimate and in relationship for 1.5 - 2 years. Plus Yin Guo doesn't seem to contribute much to the relationship. I dislike her comments about Yiyang's stubble (which was hardly visible) and his image. What's with the shaving scene?
3) Writing - I haven't read the book in which this series is based on but I assume the book focused more on their romance from 2 POVs rather than individual growth and eventual romance. I think it'd be great if this series had been about a lost man reviving a career in billiards after relearning the sport from a rookie. Remove the very first peeping through the window shot and all the naps.
4) Editing - I wish there were explanations about billiards, snooker and 9-ball so viewers have better understanding of the sport. The competition shots were alright but they never created any suspense for the viewers.
Favourite scene
When Lin Yiyang, Jiang Yang and Meng Xiao Dong hung out eating skewers
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Love and Shine no matter how the snow is falling!
One of the best dramas of this year. This drama really brought back the sweet memories of our own relationship beginnings and a lot of us wished to go back to our younger days when we experienced this.Love and shine no matter how the snow is falling is a great anthem for this drama. Very refreshing and beautiful story. The leads were wonderful but Leo Wu was fantastic as Lin Yi Yang, a layered deep character with a hint of darkness. He pretty much drove this story.
I also really loved Zhao Jinmai’s portrayal of Yin Guo as the innocent, protected girl but yet independent and determined. The music and the production was very beautiful. I don’t have anything negative to say about this drama.
The thing that struck me the most was how refreshingly normal this relationship was the ML and FL were equals, did what they loved and showed their love for each other in a very honest way. They both nurtured each other and grew through the relationship. LYY finding his direction and his way back to snooker was very well done.
Even the friendship between LYY, MXD and JY was done well and really cracked me up. MXD was the funniest of the lot of-course.
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This review may contain spoilers
Some thoughts about viewer experience
[Just a heads up that I tagged this review as possibly containing spoilers, because I talk about differences between the web novel and the show. If you've ever seen a romance drama before, the level of implied spoilerage in here shouldn't be too spoiler-y. But while I try to write about the drama so that you could read this and still experience the drama for yourself, I think of this review as better read after you've seen the drama.]I came late to Amidst a Snowstorm of Love, and I found a division of opinion. My own opinion, though, is not divided. I am blown away by this passionate, perfect drama. I can’t get enough of the screenplay’s densely packed excellence; intriguing characters; and complex personal, social, professional, and family relationships. I love that it has that comfiest of tropes, The World Is Your Wingman! And I adore its moving touch with life transitions. With no antagonist nor any catastrophes to get in the way, the drama stays with the beginning uncertainties of falling in love, and the emotional journey of becoming a couple and facing obstacles together. I’m grateful for this drama’s emotional rewards, compelling mood, and romantic intensity.
But since I began my the journey despite the critics, I was curious: What’s up with the negativity? And I have some thoughts.
First, there are ways Wu Lei’s brand of celebrity is unique, so there may be more people with conflicting opinions about his projects. Second, this drama has a lot more going on than just romance, including not only large themes but also a complex, symbolically charged male lead. And those elements aren’t to everyone’s taste. And third, Chinese TV uses innuendo, while Western media is all about show and tell. So the drama’s strategies in adapting a web novel about a sexual relationship for Chinese TV may have frustrated viewers, if they aren’t into reading between the lines.
I'll start with the length of Wu Lei’s career and the variety in his roles. Because of the many different ways he appeals, his fans cannot all be on the same page.
Older fans remember the “Nation's Little Brother” as a child actor. Fans who came along later first saw him as a teen action hero. A still younger group met him as the badass elite cavalry commander, the relatable comeback athlete, and the vengeful Han dynasty general. And some fans may have taken a shortcut to Amidst a Snowstorm of Love directly from his arthouse role as the iconic Mulian. For westerners who followed Wu Lei from Netflix movie Upcoming Summer, with its international audiences levels of LGBTQ+ content, there could be some culture shock. Wu Lei has his own studio, and his fans aren’t given marching orders through a fan association like in larger studios. His projects can’t possibly please all the fans, all the time.
Second, Amidst a Snowstorm of Love is not a typical cdrama romance. It’s got some big themes. That’s a particular flavor of romance. And I think romance fans may have gotten their wires crossed about what to expect.
The themes are centered on male lead Lin Yiyang. Female lead Yin Guo has an arc, too — she comes into her own in multiple ways. But Yin Guo as a character is not super packed with meaning. In contrast, Lin Yiyang carries a lot of symbolic weight. For the nation, he’s a returning top level talent — a symbol of reversing “brain drain.” As a snooker player, he’s that badass who comes out of retirement, to the dismay of those who expect to beat him. As an individual, he’s an orphan and a loner. And he’s in exile, holding up a makeshift community, and facing trials to reach home. As the brothers who come for him show, his absence is a wound in their community. Clearly, these layers of identity aren’t just tacked onto his character to give him a reason to brood. They’re way more substantial than the typical CEO’s childhood trauma.
That’s already a good amount of depth. In addition, the drama creators may be drawing on neurodiversity to construct Lin Yiyang’s character. In youth flashbacks, he’s impulsive and emotionally dysregulated. He says, "I used to talk mean” and that he misread others’ reactions. It may work to say adult Lin Yiyang is following these masking rules: (1) Don’t do anything without thinking it through first; (2) Don’t talk, but if you have to talk, keep it short; (3) Build relationships with acts of service. (For example, he's appreciated in multiple locations as tutor, billiards mentor, restaurant helper.)
Further, like some neurodiverse people, Lin Yiyang has difficulty navigating complex communication in the moment. When he meets Yin Guo for the first time, his manner is undeniably uncomfortable and direct. But later he's often seen trying to avoid being overwhelming to Yin Guo and making efforts to give her physical space. At one point, an elder spots a gap in Lin Yiyang's understanding - thank goodness for the advice of wise elders in cdramas! In the beginning episodes, Lin Yiyang comes off as someone who is hyperfocused on Yin Guo and super motivated to respond to her feelings and desires, but hampered in getting that across.
So here’s this disability-inflected character and these layers of symbolism. And then there’s the drama’s reputation as best-romance-ever. But romance fans like different things. I’m a romance fan, and I adore big themes and a multi-layered male lead. I like romance for the sake of romance, sure, but for me it doesn’t compare with a drama like Amidst a Snowstorm of Love. However, for other romance fans, big themes interfere with the romance. And they like their green flag to smile and be bashful. They really don't want him to lock his deadly serious gaze onto the eyes of his object of desire to the point of discomfort. So Amidst a Snowstorm of Love is not their idea of best-romance-ever. I say again, some wires may have gotten crossed.
Third, some Western viewers prefer what they're used to: shows that show the progression from first kiss to first time having sex in a realistic and titillating way. They don't want to read between the lines — they want to see some action. With this drama, those viewers are naturally going to be disappointed. Chinese TV censorship works in multiple ways, including self censorship to meet official requirements and to avoid viewer complaints. There’s no way a drama can adapt a web novel that's open about a sexual relationship without substituting implication and innuendo.
I do enjoy reading between the lines. Partly, I like getting artful raw material to head canon about the characters. And another part is I get a kick out of the double talk. That innocent pizza? That Titanic reference (Titanic was notoriously censored in China)? Hey drama creators, I see what you did there!
So I had fun with the scenes of Yin Guo gradually opening up to Public Displays of Affection. I've come across a few arguments between English speakers about Yin Guo's resistance. But I interpret the PDA scenes as code for the couple going further with physical intimacy. It's a practical choice for the drama to substitute PDA negotiations for all the mutual acts between the web novel characters that would not fly with censors. I did read the web novel, and there’s zero PDA. The web novel couple, naturally enough, prefer to make out in private, on beds. In addition, the push and pull of the drama’s PDA scenes is absent — the web novel couple take their time, and they make a mutual decision.
That unrushed intimacy from the web novel — I think the drama captures it in the many small moments in which Lin Yiyang consciously chooses to follow Yin Guo’s lead. There are many scenes where he's utterly centered on her reactions and makes decisions following her cues. Despite the drama including that PDA push and pull, overall it catches the respect, vigilance, and attention Lin Yiyang dedicates to Yin Guo.
Taken as a whole, the drama does a wonderful job of conveying the spirit of the web novel in a medium with very different rules. I admire the drama’s creativity in getting around constraints. Even though I’d like to see the deleted scenes, the drama as it exists gives me everything I need to construct a satisfying narrative. (It was after finishing the drama that I read the web novel, and I found out I did get ahead of the characters, but not by a lot.) However, not all viewers want to decipher cues and references to construct their own narrative. Probably, there are more fans who feel this way on English language forums.
While there have been a few English-speaking anti-fans, Chinese viewership is extremely high, and Amidst a Snowstorm of Love has won multiple awards. This drama is a success with its intended audience. And the reasons for its popularity are undeniable: In addition to being superbly written and directed, and featuring amazing acting by everyone involved, it takes chances to push the idol drama envelope. My experience of this drama is undiluted joy and appreciation. It's beautiful, romantic, and deserves all the praise it's received, and more.
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10 out of 10
In the midst of a snowy setting, the beginning unfolded slowly. The narrative carried a sense of continuity, pace, or pattern within a specific context. The initial encounter left me puzzled – was it their first meeting or did they already know each other? His watchful gaze, the drink offered, and her reaction initially hinted at familiarity, yet as the story unfolded, her messaging conveyed a sense of them being strangers to each other.After watching the second episode, it became apparent that the narrative had commenced with a flashback. It seemed as though she was recounting their story to someone, adding a layer of intrigue to the unfolding tale.
Without revealing too much, about their relationship status that they were either be strangers or have known each other before.
Must watch it if you ship the love story .
I like Wang Xing Yue character though he got less screen but he looked cool all the time . I really hope that his love story also accomplish . So for this I think director should plan with season 2
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Beautiful relationship that touches my heart the most
I never thought I'd end up loving this C-drama so much. After finishing it, I find myself rewatching it every night before bed, and it always puts a smile on my face. Each time I watch, I notice new details about the characters that make me appreciate them even more. I’ve completely fallen for Lin Yi Yang—he’s exactly the kind of guy I’m drawn to, so it’s no wonder he’s become my all-time favorite character. Wu Lei and Zhao Jinmai’s performances are incredible; they make the characters feel so real. I’m absolutely hooked on their love story, and the chemistry between them is perfect. I really hope they star together again! The story moves at a great pace, without any unnecessary dragging, which I love. The supporting characters are also a joy to watch. I find myself tearing up during many scenes because of how touching they are. Overall, I’m so glad I discovered Lin Yi Yang and Yin Guo. Even more, I’m grateful that Wu Lei and Zhao Jinmai brought them to life so beautifully.Was this review helpful to you?
Great 1st half, Lacking 2nd half
Considering how much I LOVED the first half of this show, something seemed to shift post episode 19/20, I had to pause it to see if I'll love it when I get back again, alas, it got worse and even unbearable /unwatchable. Believe me I love Wu Lei, but something about their romance was just lacking as I found myself beginning to FF scenes (even with them together) 😬.Maybe it was the FLs continued aversion to his touch that made it awkward or maybe I got spoiled from finishing TLOSL before getting back into this, it felt like watching paint dry. He was putting in waaayy too much work emotionally and she just felt like a brick wall most times that even when some intimacy was hinted at Episode 23 it fell so flat I literally rolled my eyes 🙄. Even the tournament scenes I enjoyed in the beginning became annoying and I ended up skipping alot.
I'll say something switched from the 1st half that didn't get quite right in the 2nd.
Initially had this rated 10 but I'm bumping it down to 7, ONLY because of Wu Lei's sizzling hot charisma & smoldering gazes 🔥😍
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Amidst a Snowstorm of Love: A Mesmerizing Journey Through Romance and Growth
As an avid CDrama enthusiast eagerly anticipating the release of "Amidst a Snowstorm of Love," I can confidently affirm that this series delivers an enchanting and heartwarming narrative that captivates from start to finish. From the stellar cast to the picturesque setting, this drama is a must-watch for anyone fond of Chinese romance dramas.The allure of "Amidst a Snowstorm of Love" lies not only in its enchanting storyline but also in the impeccable performances of its cast. Wu Lei, in particular, shines as the male lead, Lin Yi Yang. His portrayal of a determined graduate student who falls deeply in love with Zhao Jin Mai's character, Yin Guo, is nothing short of captivating. Wu Lei's mesmerizing gaze and impeccable acting skills draw viewers into the depths of Lin Yi Yang's emotions, making it effortless to become enamored with his character.
Zhao Jin Mai's portrayal of Yin Guo is equally commendable. Despite initial reservations about her innocence, Zhao Jin Mai flawlessly captures the essence of a young woman navigating both professional sports and budding romance. Her character's development from a shy and apprehensive individual to a confident and fearless competitor is a testament to Zhao Jin Mai's talent and dedication to her craft.
A special mention must be made for Wang Xing Yue's portrayal of Meng Xiao Dong, whose presence adds depth and intrigue to the storyline. The entire cast deserves recognition for their outstanding performances, contributing to the overall visual and emotional appeal of the drama.
The use of Finland as a backdrop adds a layer of visual splendor to the storytelling process. The breathtaking landscapes and enchanting locales serve as the perfect setting for the blossoming romance between Lin Yi Yang and Yin Guo. The pacing of the story is expertly crafted, keeping viewers engaged and invested in the characters' journey from beginning to end.
The soundtrack and musical score further enhance the viewing experience, complementing the emotional depth of each scene. The carefully curated selection of songs adds another dimension to the storytelling, breathing life into the characters' emotions and experiences.
One of the most compelling aspects of "Amidst a Snowstorm of Love" is the undeniable chemistry between the main characters. Lin Yi Yang's unwavering devotion and quick confession of love for Yin Guo, coupled with their palpable on-screen chemistry, make for an unforgettable viewing experience. The portrayal of their love languages, with Lin Yi Yang's acts of service and physical touch complementing Yin Guo's words of affirmation and quality time, adds depth and authenticity to their relationship.
While the main storyline is undeniably captivating, there is a longing for closure in the unresolved story arc of Meng Xiao Dong and Lin Lin. Despite their secondary roles, their characters' journey leaves viewers invested and yearning for a sense of completion. A brief epilogue or closure would have provided a satisfying resolution to their storyline.
In conclusion, "Amidst a Snowstorm of Love" is a visual and emotional masterpiece that surpasses expectations. From its stellar cast and picturesque setting to its captivating storyline and heartfelt performances, this CDrama is a testament to the beauty of love and the power of storytelling. It is a must-watch for fans of Chinese romance dramas and a timeless addition to the genre.
Note: This review is written by me, edited by ChatGPT for readability.
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Amidst a snowstorm of love
This is my another comfort drama. i had watched my dramas upto 600, but these three drama's are my favourite:- 1 Put Your Head On My Shoulder, 2 When I Fly Towards You and Third one is this. No unnecessary breakups, misunderstandings or love triangle. This is overall good drama. Perfect Cast, Ost, Story and Productive. I hope i will seen many drama's in the future too.This is my another comfort drama. i had watched my dramas upto 600, but these three drama's are my favourite:- 1 Put Your Head On My Shoulder, 2 When I Fly Towards You and Third one is this. No unnecessary breakups, misunderstandings or love triangle. This is overall good drama. Perfect Cast, Ost, Story and Productive. I hope i will seen many drama's in the future too. ❤️❤️🌸
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This review may contain spoilers
Romance of the year!!!!!! What!?
This is one of the best shows ever this year an easy number 1!When I started of this show I didn’t expect much at all then as it went to the bar scene when he saw her for the first time wow I got absolutely chills I mean the way he looks at her through out this show is insane. The male lead is one of the greenest flag I’ve ever seen the way he tries so hard to make sure she is good even though he has nothing is incredible.
Throughout this show we see their love story, friendships , family dynamics and how it changes from how it was in the beginning to a different and stronger bond in the end. Now were there moments that I cried? Yes oh wow and those moments where I was literally crying was so wholesome this show was beyond good. I do feel it should have been 36 episodes instead of 30 it felt rushed at the end and we didn’t see the second lead couple story in full but overall good.
It is a definitely must watch it will exceed your expectations and more everything was beautiful I love the female lead and how she handled everything showing up for him and being there for him without her giving up her dreams but sharing each others dreams.
If you must do something this year it is definitely to watch this show Amidst a snowstorm of love!!!!
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Magic is in the Fluff
The romance in this was absolutely swoonworthy! I often found myself grinning from ear to ear and blushing like a psychopath. So, it's definitely a 10/10 for the chemistry and the fluff!! However much I enjoy that, I can't justify more than a 7.5/10 when I felt the actual plot was just okay. Despite being a series with sports as a focal point, I was surprised that I don't think i felt any tension during the matches. I felt like I knew what was going to happen the whole time. It would have been nice to have been thrown a curve ball.Was this review helpful to you?
