Can't overlook the bad Acting
I think the Male Lead is attractive, don't get me wrong - but either there's no chemistry between them or he can't comfortably play in the role. I'm dying of cringe at his awkward silences especially during intimate moments, then they do this thing where they zoom into his eyes like TURN IT OFF LOL. Maybe it gets better ahead, Idk, but he's ruined it for me at this point. The female lead is childish too. It feels like they had The Double in mind, like its trying to give Duke Su but noo.Was this review helpful to you?
The Female Lead is so annoying
The series started great. I watch it because of Song Wei Long is the male lead. Early series was enjoyable and full of laughter. First Impression of Female Lead was calm and smart. But as time goes by and she got married, she began to show her true colors. She is selfish, childish, annoying and don't really care about her husband. She only think about herself. I think the story between Min min and Zhang Yu is more interesting compared to the main couple.Was this review helpful to you?
The story was interesting in the beginning but then it moves really fast, and it rushed. The main leads literally get married on ep 8 and they don't have any feelings for each other. They've met like 4-5 times and the male lead just simply asks the king to marry her not because he likes her. Their chemistry doesn't really get any better after being married.
The hair, costume, and props were very bland. The costuming for this drama was an issue to me. Now this might be accurate based on ancient Chinese history for their outfits, but I cannot with their outfits. In most Chinese dramas their clothing choices are solid matching colors but in this drama, they use patterns and colors that don't match and it makes me very mad.
The acting for this show is fine, I've seen a couple Song Weilong dramas, but honestly kind of dissapointed.
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This review may contain spoilers
Lighthearted, Romantic, and Tropey in all the best ways!
If you’re thinking about starting this drama, you should probably read this (one small spoiler but not much else). Sorry for the length, but I hope it will help a little bit.Not all female leads have to be extremely smart, capable, independent, and never need a man to save the day. I’m so baffled by the comments not liking female lead, when in reality, there are all types of women who all have different stories to tell because we are all multi-faceted. I consider myself high maintenance with standards that I do not bend for anyone, and I have a partner who understands and accepts that and he is willing to be with me and love me even when I can be bratty, bossy, and princess-like at times. I think that is why I relate to Ming Tan so much. To me, the typical “heroine” in a cdrama who is capable of anything are such Mary Sue archetypes that I also get tired of it, too. I just can’t relate. This drama is NOT one of those stories, and if you are wanting that, this is NOT the drama for you.
The female lead is imperfect, spoiled, rich, and extremely feminine. But from those traits, Ming Tan also brings kindness, youth, savviness, and the feminine touch that Jiang Xu lacks and needs in his life to develop his character; she makes him question how he treats those around him and gives him space to be thoughtful and caring because Ming Tan is so receptive of his taking care of her (she fully embraced that about him); there are women out there who like to be taken care of and men who like to dote. This show is that dynamic and I love it all the more for it. Ming Tan gives back in her own quiet and gentle way, such as accepting the fish knowing she is allergic because she values his efforts, and/or pushing back at him when she thinks he is being too harsh. She is not trained in martial arts and is a true girly girl who continues to be targeted by everyone around her, so he is there to protect her because she is put into situations where she absolutely cannot fight back. Ming Tan needs Jiang Xu physically while Jiang Xu needs Ming Tan emotionally. They balance each other out.
You often see Mary Sue characters who never need the male lead’s help and he’s always helping her anyways, but the female lead always takes it for granted. I am not a fan of those stories where the male lead has to love silently forever until the female lead finally accepts him after 80 million years. That is why I am so happy to see a female character like Ming Tan completely embracing her femininity and loving the male lead who is protective and fully capable and willing to save her no matter what (he is an acts of service man). That does not mean that she is useless as we have seen time and again that Ming Tan has her own thoughts, opinions, and strength by how she’s managed her household, how fairly she treats her servants and even her stepmother and stepsister, how capable she is now that she’s starting to manage Jiang Xu’s businesses as well as the refugee crisis.
With our male lead, Jiang Xu is stoic, ruthless, and impartial in every way because he is a man with solid integrity and morals that paint the world in black and white. Hell, I noticed he literally ONLY dresses in black and white before Ming Tan came along. She brings colors and emotions and whimsy into his life because she wears her feelings on her sleeve, be it her gentle nature, sassy princess upbringing, and/or her embarrassing antics. She strives for perfection but falls short because she is human, not a Mary Sue who does everything right. Those are boring characters with no flaws. Ming Tan is supposed to be high maintenance and the facade of perfection in a society that demands it of their nobles, and especially their women in such a patriarchal society. Her reputation is ALWAYS on the line because everyone is jealous of her being renowned and painted as being perfect. I’m sure there is so much pressure on her to always be perfect, but she is genuine in wanting to ensure she does not sully the family name. She is vain, but it is because she bears a responsibility to upkeep that image for her family’s reputation. She also grew up with everything at the palm of her hands, so if her criteria list for her husband is long, then it is fully within character and her right to choose someone who matches it. She is high in status and has many positive and high quality traits that a man in that era would want as well. Why can’t our girl be picky? She’s a complete catch! But the thing that I love is that Jiang Xu has seen it all and knows she is not perfect, but he falls for her in spite of and because of all of that, fully embracing the side of Ming Tan that no one else knows about. He sees her as her, completely beyond the reputation that precedes her.
Yes, this is a drama where you can turn your brain off a little bit to enjoy. It’s a lighthearted romcom that isn’t pretending to be what it’s not. The show does not take itself seriously, but there is still an interesting love story and lead/side character dynamics that are intriguing, fun, and adorable to watch if you want chemistry, fluff, and two beautiful people who make you giddy and swoon. Their scenes together are electric.
Just like Ming Tan and Jiang Xu, the drama is not perfect. It does need more backstory than what 13 episodes have given us so far, especially the court/emperor/empress dowager struggle for power, and yes it utilizes lots of tropes in romcom and dramas, but that’s what it wants to be. It’s not here to subvert tropes, and it doesn’t want to. It just wants you to happily enjoy a blossoming love story with cute antics and some potential climactic angst/crisis that will test our two leads. Nothing here is groundbreaking, but I am here for the tropes, the romance, and the characters. So far, it is serving and I am feasting.
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When a Female Lead Ruins the Entire Drama
I went into this drama with high expectations, but it turned out to be one of the most frustrating viewing experiences I’ve had in a long time—and the female lead is the main reason why.Her character comes across as nothing more than a spoiled, immature brat. Instead of depth, strength, or emotional complexity, we get childish behavior, exaggerated expressions, and a performance that feels completely out of place in an adult drama. Honestly, it’s a disgrace to female roles. Women in dramas can be powerful, layered, and compelling—this portrayal is the exact opposite.
It’s hard to understand how such a strong, charismatic actor like Song Wei Long was paired with someone so bland and childlike. The mismatch is jarring. There is absolutely zero chemistry between them. Watching their scenes feels uncomfortable, almost like they belong in completely different shows. At times, it genuinely feels like an adult interacting with a child.
Because of this, the entire story collapses. There’s no emotional tension, no engagement, nothing that makes you care. I found myself constantly fast-forwarding just to get through episodes.
In fact, I gave up completely at episode 18—I simply couldn’t take it anymore.
I actually feel bad for Song Wei Long, because he’s a talented actor and deserves far better than this. As for the female lead—this kind of role might work in a children’s story, but it absolutely does not belong in a serious, adult drama.
Final note:
The rating of 1 I gave in the acting category is directed solely at the female lead. It does not reflect the performance of the rest of the cast—especially Song Wei Long, who delivers a solid and professional performance despite the weak dynamic. Unfortunately, her portrayal is so poor and out of place that it completely overshadows everything else and drags the overall acting score down to that level.
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Ordinary and boring
I managed to watch six episodes—I kind of forced myself—but I just can't get through episode seven. The plot is so ordinary and predictable. I enjoy romance and sweet stories, but this one is just too generic.Honestly, it doesn’t offer anything new, not even as a light distraction. If anything, it makes you more bored. The only reason I made it past the first episode was because of the main lead and the second lead.
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Beautiful everything but the chemistry
Rarely I see beautiful colorful dresses in period drama and loving it. The storyline also not bad. Song wei long handsome face is a sight to behold dat makes me still watch this drama. FL character is also like able. She is smart, kind, without being too helpless.My main disappointment only their acting and lack of chemistry. D simple gestures is very much lacking, people in love will instinctively touch each other, but during meaningful scene, they will move everywhere but each other. Their hug and gaze feels forced, even tho d writer seems to give them enough background story. You will feel this, esp after you watch TPOB with ample chemistry and amazing acting. I even prefer d 2FL and 2 ML chemistry compared to d main leads. Wasting lots of potential of such a beautiful drama..
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Absolutely Gorgeous and Fluffy drama
This drama is that type you watch when you need something light and not filled with too much angst,I did enjoy watching this drama. For some reason it's still the best fluffy historical drama for me...The male lead is stern,emotionally understanding and strong principled,The Female lead although very pretty,is Little overconfident and stressful but shes also understanding in her own way,they both made a really good pair.
The side characters are the best!!! The second female lead is so good at acting,the second male lead bai shu is really intelligent tho easy going at the same time,the third and fourth male lead are both handsome and emotionally dependable despite being nobles and having a political background,I still live this drama so much,my best historical drama yet.
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Sweet n Entertaining
I will start from fl first. She is by far the most materialistic fl ever in drama. Watching her i can keep related with modern woman this day. Bse good at portraying the spoiled noble born mingtan. At least she did have empathy for poor ppl and want to socialize with them. Ml as usual superb at his role and will attract jealous from other idol fan.This drama will accompany you in your comfort time
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This review may contain spoilers
Fun historical romance with a girl's girl FML
The FL, even though spoiled, is still a girl's girl! She is poised and kind but still no pushover. The ML was her perfect pair especially with the moody and Prince vibes. There were a few loose ends/questions I had about little things but I think they got lost in translation as opposed to poor filming. What I love about this show is that it is on the more light-heard and silly side even though there is the classic espionage plot line happening. Also - ALL side characters get their HEA thank goodness and the last episode is pure fan service which yes please always.Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Fast-paced story marred by underwhelming Guqin performances | The utterly domesticated Prince.
"We should cherish the present moment instead of dreaming about the future." - Yun YiI have few words for this drama, not because it lacked substance, but because its natural flow left me in a state of pure comfort. It washed away any potential criticisms, leaving only a beautiful, relaxing story.
The story was compelling from start to finish, leaving no room for boredom or discontent. The introduction of the characters was handled naturally, followed by entertaining events and conflicts that connected seamlessly to the plot. Each story arc was developed over the right number of episodes, ensuring the story never felt 'draggy' and maintained a fast pace. Every episode was skillfully utilized; I never felt any part of the story was filler, as each was beautifully crafted to support the main plot.
The climax flowed naturally. Although it briefly seemed as though the antagonist might regain the upper hand—echoing earlier events in the story—the protagonist surprisingly learned from earlier events and planned ahead to counter their moves. This gave us an ending that felt satisfyingly hard-earned.
I admit the last episode felt like fan service, but I can't complain at all. I'm so grateful we got to see their lives after all the conflict, and were even gifted moments of them enjoying life with their kids.
The romance between all 3 CPs is so sweet. I love them all, especially the endearing chemistry between the leads, Jiang Xu and Ming Tan. However, the couple that captured my attention the most—and who I wish had their relationship further explored and shown—is Shu Jingran and Yun Yi. Their chemistry is undeniable; I would have loved to see them become more openly affectionate and vocal with one another. While I liked how their story ended, I wish we could have seen a 'years later' glimpse of them, similar to the scene with Zhang Huaiyu and Bai Minmin with their adorable son.
I know the "stoic-to-softie" trope has been reused countless times across every dramaland. But there is really something about Prince Dingbei/Jiang Xu that keeps him above the rest. He was introduced as someone blunt—tactless, even—aside from being unromantic. But what made his evolution more interesting was that it didn't happen over a short amount of time. He underwent a phase of pondering and getting jealous without the usual in denial stage, and I think that is what made him unique. I adore how he's become totally smitten. One who is clingy and totally smitten. A true lover boy. He's turned from a man of few words into a real yapper. Cute!
One thing I am truly grateful for is how they dealt with that trifling, insignificant concubine and her daughter (Ming Chu) almost immediately. I’m really glad we didn't have to deal with them after all the mess they staged. Although we still encountered Ming Chu during the main conflict of the story, I am glad they didn't give her much relevance to the plot and kept her bitchy-antagonistic persona instead of suddenly making her kind. I certainly hate her, but I also can't deny that I grew to like her consistency.
If there is anything I wish they had improved, it would be the Guqin melodies and performances. I’m not sure if I’ve just grown too accustomed to the overly edited, superfluous Guqin presentations in Xianxia dramas, or if this production's representation simply lacks vitality. Either way, the performances felt underwhelming. I find those scenes mediocre and uninteresting, especially compared to how the characters described them as 'great.' I wish they could have been more realistically impressive.
P.S. My favorite moment has to be the drunk scene in Episode 23. While Ming Tan is livid with jealousy, Jiang Xu is completely lost in his admiration for her, thinking only of how unique and wonderful she is. He expresses that, given the opportunity, he would court her repeatedly just to prove his devotion. He is truly head-over-heels and makes it clear that no one can claim him but his Princess Consort.
Story - 9.5, I truly enjoy every moment of this drama. If there is one thing I wish they had improved further, it would be the development of Shu Jingran and Yun Yi. The story plot would've been flawless if they had given us some life updates about them, the same way they handled Zhang Huaiyu and Bai Minmin’s story. Especially they are the CP—next to the main CP—that I got attached too. Additionally, I don't know what happened with the Guqin performances but they're totally unrealistic and boring. I can still remember how dismayed I was watching them.
Acting/Cast - 10, I am very satisfied with the cast. They executed their characters very well. In terms of acting...gotta give credits to Song Wei Long, Bao Shang En & Bai Shu. Love these 3 the most!
Music - 10, The music gets better and better as the show goes on. I was a bit unimpressed at first, but I noticed how the song choices and their placement slowly improved over time. It’s a beautiful set of songs.
Rewatch Value - 9.0, I love it, but not to the point where I can watch it again immediately. Maybe after a few years when I’ve forgotten the details about the story. Definitely a great watch, regardless!
Overall - 9.5, It was a good story overall. It would have been flawless if they had provided equal visual development and updates for Shu Jingran and Yun Yi, and if they had put more effort into editing the Guqin performances. Those were simply disappointing. You can’t present a lackluster act and then call it 'great' immediately afterward.
IF you find my review helpful please let me know.
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Entertaining
I really enjoyed watching this tv series. Great acting of the casts. I'm not really a fan of tv dramas but I was hooked on this one. The four main casts as well as the supporting actors are good. Can't wait to see more of their tv dramas especially those of Song Wei Long and Wang Riu Chang. They are both great, funny and good looking in this tv drama film. Even Bi Wen Jin's acting is also great. I found it worth my while to watch all of the 36 episodes. I might watch this again after sometime.Was this review helpful to you?
