Why This Drama Deserves More Credit: Embrace Individuality and Enjoy the Story
I am not sure why this drama has received so many negative reviews honestly, it’s one of a kind. I came across a comment that mentioned it is not a drama for young girls who take inspiration from other dramas, and I can’t help but think: It’s true that a lot of young girls might take inspiration from dramas, especially when it comes to relationships, fashion, or even life goals. But, here's the thing dramas are meant to be entertainment, not blueprints for real life. If we only ever “took inspiration” from what we see on screen, we’d miss out on creating our own unique stories.Now, about the drama itself it's not your typical colorful, cliché-filled show with romantic kisses. But it's definitely worth a watch at least once. The actors did an amazing job, especially compared to "Always Home." Sure, school dramas might follow a similar structure, but this one keeps things interesting without feeling repetitive. Everyone has their own taste, but I really don’t think this drama deserves as much hate as it’s getting especially compared to other shows. If it’s not your thing, then just drop it, but I would absolutely recommend giving it a shot!
You can ask me if I will be like YingTao and I will not be but Love doesn't just need to be in a format it can vary between different people/scenarios/etc. If what I think I am doing is Love I will respect others way of Love as well unless it is physical/mental abuse. Watch a TAMIL MOVIE (INDIAN) - Vaaranam Aayiram and you will love it.
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A huge disappointment.
So disappointed, the written is bad and not believable, lack of chemistry between the leads.The redeeming qualities of this drama are the side characters. What a wonderful friend group. The community of the supportive adults. Love seeing this as bad parenting is usually the norm. Script tries real hard to make you hate ML, and his turn around was unnaturally fast, the holes in the plot are so noticeable and the negative pointsare more than the positive ones. What a big disappointment this was.
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Had promise and lost step
First I must comment the soundtrack for OG is better than the series. The songs are catchy and the main two are played many times thus they stick in your head.This series started with good intentions and then fizzled and then picked back up. It spend way too much time on the ML going 'missing' that I don't know why the FL bothered. Everyone has challeneges in life and the ML seemed to feel he had to suffer on his own to 'protect' those he loved yet wound up hurting them more. I think of all the WASTED years that went by where a simple, 'Hope you are well, thinking about you' would have went a long way.
The start of the series the parents were shown having key roles in their childrens lives and then at High School and beyond faded to the background, which I guess is how life goes. I wish the ML found closure with the parents who are gone in the second half of the series.
This series also wasted the friends relationships and played minor roles. the FL best friends (girl) and (boy) clearly have for each other and never took the step to at least tell each other. Again wasted years loving someone. Maybe they decide to just stay platonic. The other cirlce of friends are never explored other than cameos at times.
Overall it is worth a watch, just know the middle episodes are frustrating as it doesn't connect to the start and the (happy) ending episodes, the wrap up seemed rushed considering the time spent on the 'apart' portions.
I guess the series does show the years of growth as you enter adulthood and have real ife to deal with. ML took responsibility for his family and put his own happiness (and education) on hold. Many people deal with similar situations.
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This Could’ve Been the Next Go Ahead… If Only They Didn’t Cut It
I wish they didn’t have to cut so many scenes. After episode 17, the editing got really choppy and so many important moments were just gone. I’m glad that unlike the novel, all the friends actually stayed in touch here, but yeah… a lot of loopholes popped up because they had to shrink it from 44 episodes to 24. Honestly, it had the potential to be the best slice-of-life drama after Go Ahead, but all that cutting made the ML’s impact way less than it should’ve been.When I was watching the show, I honestly did not like the ML at all. But after reading the novel and finally understanding where he was coming from… I ended up loving both him and the FL, and seeing how they were meant for each other. Both actors killed it – loved them. The rest of the cast was great too. The songs? So good. Cinematography? Gorgeous. I just wish the editing hadn’t been so rushed, because then we wouldn’t have had random fillers instead of those important, heart-hitting scenes.
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A Slow Burn Story
A well-crafted youth drama that focuses on friendship, growth, and the emotional complexity of teenage years. Rather than relying heavily on romance, it leans into the connections between the characters and the impact of their environment. The cast delivers strong performances across the board, with Yingtao and Qiaoxi’s storyline standing out for its emotional depth. The strained mother-son dynamic supplies tension, and the changing dynamics of the ensemble keep the show afoot. Gloomily dark at moments, but the final episodes package everything together in sincerity and heart.Was this review helpful to you?
Too much skipped
Just binge watch this drama from eps 9 after dropped it till this drama finished airing. Try to keep positive about the drama. But no, I am walnutz. Can't denied watch this drama mostly because feel intrigued about Jiang Qiaoxi cause the synopsys looks so interesting. Also cause I want to see Peirong couple in modern set for once. But no, I am agree with mostly reviews about bad written especially how they poorly written about Qiaoxi character. For FL sometimes i feel she is also too childish. But much better than ML. I am more understand her well than ML. That's the big disappointment I feel about this drama.The drama started off so good at the first, I feel nostalgic when seeing their childhood moment till they reached Senior High School. But after that the story got dragged, Can't bring my self to didn't skip most of the scene. Especially in eps 15 till 24. Even with Hongkong arc didn't help. I am still skipped most of the scene.
They really did dirty work by didn't delivered ML character well. If you said, it's because Linghe is second billing so it's make sense he got less screentime, but that's not the case. It just because bad written, they didn't care how his character developed. Many people asking his character and didn't understand him well. Some labelled him as red flag, toxic ML. Coward. I am agree with most of it. Even though I understand why he act like that. And the end, the ending feels rushed and unreal.
Feel disappointed as I've been waiting for this drama since the filming last year
The only thing I love is the acting. Both of Linghe and Maimai did good job on delivered their emotion. So good, also the Qin Yue Yun. Best BESTIE for mee
And the cinematography also looks so good and aesthetic. The music also wonderful, but sometimes I feel they used too much song till I feel they abused it
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inspiring example how to stay true to yourself
In my eyes this drama is amazing… it is perfect… there is only one downside which irritates me very much… the MLs mother… (every screetime with her makes me want … I mean come on… does this mother love fame and prestige more than her own son… her pushing him into even illness for a stupid paper which has no value compared to the wellbeing of a human…) besides that it’s so beautiful and heartwarming and an inspiring example how to stay true to yourself… I cannot wait to see how the love story develops furthermore! The young Qile is so amazing, I have never seen a child actor being so genuine and full of emotions and conveying everything so strong, she’s going to become an amazing actress as an adult too (I really hope to see many more movies/tv shows with her). I love all characters they are all so deep and round… besides the mother… which I utmostly disklike!Was this review helpful to you?
1Zhang Linghe and Zhao Jinmai Shine in a Beautiful Coming of Age Story
Our Generation is everything I hoped for and more. From the acting to the storyline, it delivers a heartfelt slice of life journey that beautifully balances youth, friendship, family struggles, and slow burn romance. I waited so long for this drama, and it didn’t disappoint. If you love realistic coming of age stories with heartfelt romance and stellar acting, this one’s worth every minute.Zhang Linghe’s micro-acting is simply phenomenal. You can see every emotion in Jiang Qiaoxi’s eyes, like when he was happy to see Yingtao again but had to pretend otherwise, only to run around looking for her moments later because he was so worried. These subtle yet powerful moments are what make his portrayal so real and sweet. Zhao Jinmai is equally outstanding. Yingtao feels like a breath of fresh air, resilient, kind, and unafraid to stand by her values, especially when it comes to protecting her friends. Their chemistry is natural and heartwarming, from the adorable blush moments to the emotional shower scene that had me crying with Cherry.
I also love the dynamic with the side characters like Duchang and Cai Fangyuan, though I admit I get them mixed up in stills sometimes (both are so good-looking 😍). Ye Yun’s storyline, particularly her relationship with her father, is incredibly moving. When she realises how much he cares for her despite his struggles, I couldn’t hold back my tears.
The drama does a brilliant job at layering its characters with depth. For example, Jiang Qiaoxi being shown underwater felt like a metaphor for how suffocated he feels under his mother’s strict control. His mother’s behaviour is frustrating (sometimes downright infuriating), but it’s clear she’s projecting her own unresolved pain onto him. It makes his relationship with Yingtao even more special, she brings warmth and colour to his life.
Unlike many dramas where the male lead does all the chasing, I love how Our Generation flips this dynamic. Yingtao actively pursues her feelings, showing courage and sincerity, which feels refreshing. Their love story isn’t built on grand gestures but on trust, memories, and quiet moments, the little things, like how he wants to treat her the way his cousin treats his wife.
The episodes fly by, which shows how much I enjoy them. Some moments are funny (like the ep 2 jumpscare when JQX just appears behind her 😂), while others are deeply emotional. Episodes like 9, 15, and 21 stand out as my favourites for their emotional depth and romantic tension. Ep 21 especially was perfection, the angst, the heart to heart conversations, and their growth as a couple made me cry and smile at the same time. The wedding scene where they talk to their younger selves was such a beautiful and symbolic ending, telling us that no matter what hardships you face, you will find your happiness and the person who will stand with you.
Our Generation is a touching story of growing up, love, and healing. It’s not just about romance; it’s about family dynamics, self discovery, and finding light during difficult times. Sure, some people expected a rom-com and were disappointed, but this slice of life gem is special in its own way. From its relatable high school setting (love that the cast actually looks their age!) to its emotional arcs, it’s a drama that lingers with you.
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amazingly beautiful love story
A brilliant show, Cdrama modern, 2025, 24eps x 45mins ea. = 18hrs watchtime. The two leads, Zhao Jin Mai, as Cherry (Lin Qi Le), and Zhang Ling He, as her true love Jiang Qiao Xi, give the performances of their careers so far. I recommend this whole-heartedly for both its romance and for the nostalgia of its main backstory which mostly runs from '96 through 2000.However you will be as immediately captivated as I was by the first episode in which the child actress who represents the young Cherry dominates the scene and the adult leads do not appear at all. No cutesy first-love-flashback, the anchor for the life-time love of Cherry and Qiao Xi is seen clearly. A perfectly and swiftly established full portrait of childhood, which should have felt sentimental, but stayed close enough to reality to be sincere yet still fun.
The cinematography, from the opening home village section, all the way through the high school scenes, the college scenes and the scenes in Hong Kong, is carefully tailored to each set of episodes; filters, spaces, perspectives all are unique and perfect. I dont know Hong Kong, but I have a sneaking feeling that the elephant in the room for the street scenes is that region's cinematic history/style. Michael Tone and Carmen Lee show up as family in Hong Kong and there are some cute meta-jokes
The soundtrack is full of songs that create a nostalgic feeling; their lyrics often run point-counter-point to the narrative, uplifting action-only sequences to poetry.
Zhao Min Lai comes into her own in this role. Her portrayal of Cherry's courageous fidelity circles back through puppy love to the steadfastness of childhood, as she (Cherry) becomes an adult right in front of our eyes. Working as an actress since the age of 10, ZML has accomplished what many child actors havent, to become an adult artist, flexible, sincere and skilled. May she never be restricted to costume dramas again!
Zhang Ling He also takes risks as he moves into less-stylized roles of moderns. As the youth Qiao Xi, ZLH's portrayal of hesitancy and fear will not surprise you, but his performance of the almost adult QX is powerful and meticulous. Great balance of vulnerability with strength. His work with Zhao is way beyond the Princess Royal (obviously!), they both are courageous with their talents.
To be honest, the saccharine opening credits almost put me off watching, but this drama is so wonderful that I even became fond of them in the end.
ps. Just some amazing things -- What is the gift for a boys maturity?, Cherry asks QiaoXi. A full kitchenware set, says he, in my dreams I cook you countless meals.
Cherry, as a child and the leader of her gang, being hastily pulled back to earth by her buddies when she stands on a high ridge and declares she can fly! There couldnt be a better metaphor (or more beautiful visually) for why her friends are an essential part of Cherry's groundedness.
pps. It is confusing to read reviews referring to Cherry/Lin Qi Le as Ying Tao. The reviewers are confusing a different heroine (Ying Tao) from the novel which is the basis for the drama, with the actual character (Qi Le) in the drama itself.
ppps. Maybe we should have a romance vs. true love label? The ability to accept the childlike part of your lover is a crucial basis for a long-term relationship and part of the fundamental trust that we label as true love.
Many people have expressed their dislike of this story, saying that it was not romantic enough for them. There is nothing wrong with a well-choreographed kiss with good music just before the trials and tribulations of a romance show, and hot interactions/glances/quarrels etc early on. I crave that sort of show as much as anyone else, just not all the time.
However, this is not that show, and it is still a wonderful depiction of true love, and I would place the difference squarely in its depiction of trust.
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Slow and repetitve
The drama started off at a slow pace, focusing on the characters' childhoods—which was sweet and nostalgic in its own way. Things picked up once the main leads reunited, but the storyline began to feel repetitive, especially with the male lead constantly disappearing without much explanation. His mother’s overbearing and controlling behavior also became quite frustrating to watch.By the time I reached the final few episodes, the pacing dragged enough that I ended up fast-forwarding through much of it. Certain plotlines felt unresolved, particularly the relationship between Yu Qiao and Qin Ye Yun, as well as the main lead’s dynamic with his parents. A more thoughtful closure would’ve really helped those arcs feel more complete.
That said, I genuinely appreciated the portrayal of friendship throughout the series. It’s rare to see a group of childhood friends stay connected so deeply, even after years of no contact, reconnecting in high school, and managing to maintain that bond while pursuing their separate paths in university. That enduring connection was definitely one of the drama’s strongest points.
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our generation
i loved the princess royal. still my fav drama to this day. sooo excited to watch this pair again when i found out that they had a new drama. i can sum this up with one word: disappointing.at first, i was so shocked with the child actors. never seen so many good ones in one screen. so much emotion that really showed, and they didn’t look like they were lip-syncing like other ones in other dramas. i was so impressed until around the middle bit. the storyline was so bad— like why did he give up his math skills for her, but then abandon her again? they could’ve changed to it abandoning her once in qunshan because of his mother’s threats, but ghosting her after graduating high school was entirely his choice. i get it that it would’ve been boring without a twist, but that twist ruined the entire thing.
i am on the last 2-3 episodes, and its getting so boring, im writing this review while watching it. just that one choice in the drama ruined the entire thing.
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Good but could've been better
I'm not new to watching coming-of-age/romance dramas like this. The first 10 episodes up to the last bit of the high school arc, were pretty solid, good, and are rather enjoyable. I loved the dynamic of the Qunshan squad. I also liked how they got to highlight the struggles of each character (maybe not too much on Cai Fangyuan's though). I really thought it deserved a higher rating than what it currently has.HOWEVER, the romance in this drama fell flat. First off, I understand the review of most people here regarding the FL being the constant "chaser". I honestly didn't mind it at first. Considering that I also watched The First Frost, I just thought that a reversed role of the girl being the chaser shouldn't be that bad as long as it's portrayed well. But I think one of the main points why TFF was such a hit is that it isn't common in real life to have somebody like Sangyan -- e.g. a guy who's willing to go through all hell for a girl regardless of how long it may be. People put Sangyan's character on a pedestal because of this. In reality, it's always women who chase after problematic and emotionally unavailable men because of our so-called "maternal instinct". I get Qiaoxi's struggles and I believe nobody should struggle the same way as he did, but our homegirl didn't look like she has any self-respect and really acted like a martyr all the way til the end. Perhaps the most self-respect she showed to herself was during her first reunion with QX when she initially tried pushing him away.
In relation to that, Yingtao's character lacks depth. The show made it look like she only lives and breathes for Qiaoxi (which I believe she mentioned in one scene). They didn't even highlight her dreams, her aspirations, and her inner struggles. It's hard to connect with her on an emotional level because all she really utters is "Qiaoxi Qiaoxi Qiaoxi". Heck there wasn't even a scene where she finally realizes that her feelings for QX are more than just caring for a friend. No scene for self-reflection at all.
Ok, now to Qiaoxi. The guy didn't even have a redemption arc! That time skip left out a lot of loose ends. How did he do during college? How did he get that finance job in the first place? How did he and Yingtao ended up living under the same roof? Did he ever make it up to Yingtao? And on top of that, the show ended with him...JOBLESS! And, when did he even realize he's developed a romantic feeling for Yingtao? Was he just going with the surge of emotions? He was in a very unstable emotional state so how was he so sure that he actually loves Yingtao? Coz she was the one who's always there for her and that nobody else could probably tolerate him the way Yingtao does? They may have shown that he feels bad for ghosting YT but his remorse didn't leave a huge impact to the viewers.
Overall, ZJM and ZLH did so well with their roles. It's just that the plot could've been better. I've read that the novel was so much better in so many ways so it's such a shame to see the drama being portrayed like this. I honestly thought the elementary/high school arc and the college/adult arc were written by different writers because there's so much disconnect with the feels. Not to mention the unnecessary fillers that could've been used to establish the characters' story well.
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