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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Yingtao is One-in-a-Million
First off all, don't let the low-score reviews deter you from trying out this show, they are generally from people who reviewed it prematurely without even completing.The drama sells to you a coming-of-age story of both Yingtao and Qiaoxi, childhood friends who later become separated a couple of times due to varying life circumstances but eventually find their way back to each other (yes a HE!).
Along the way though, are many obstacles our main couple have to overcome - be it emotional abused turned trauma, or just... life. Throughout the childhood, high school and uni arc the script and editing gives viewers Yingtao's POV, so many of Qiaoxi's decisions and actions (or lack thereof) become puzzling and is one of the reasons many dropped the show, accusing him of becoming cowardly and undeserving of her love.
But to be fair, the editing had cut many important contextual scenes (yes ZLH filmed those alr but were not spared from post-production) that can give viewers further insight to his personality shaped by prolonged emotional abuse and pressure from his family. In the novel, this aspect was thoroughly fleshed out so readers were able to better understand his train of thoughts and dilemma during his low points.
Despite this though, I think ZJM and ZLH both did so so well in portraying their characters - the faithful, hopeful, positive and courageous Yingtao and the overthinking, emotionally inept Qiaoxi who only has her as his life's hope. Say what you want about them but this couple truly understand each other best, even more than us viewers. So please quit with those 'red flags' and 'obsessed' shallow accusations. We get to see Yingtao confronting Qiaoxi's self-deprecating nature and how he comes to love himself and place his identity in the right places.
The last 4-6 episodes were really beautiful and are a must-watch, i feel they rounded off the story really well. While some details and plot were changed from the novel, it is still a beautiful story of friendship, hope and arden love.
If you're looking for a fluffy, easy, fast-paced drama then this might disappint you. But if you're strong enough to go through the angst, take enough effort to understand the characters then you'll be rewarded with some fluff and a beautiful end to their story.
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The kind of series I would rewatch for angst feeling
This drama was full of stressful scenes yet memorable and have lots of meaningful moments. What I liked about the characters is Ying Tao, I desire to have a friend like her, she's the kind of person who would be there for you through ups and downs and uplift you when you're about to give up. This series taught us to cherish our youth, before we face the adulthood. Years have gone by so fast, and the rest will be adulthood so take risks before it's over. It taught to us to be brave and speak what's in our heart. Yingtao's wisdom was such a fresh air, something that wake us up in the darkness full of uncertainty, she's the one who will remind you to stand on your ground and have faith in yourself. I'll definitely rewatch some of the scenes, especially the stairs scene in HK. Overall, this drama was full of childhood moments that makes you want to reminisce your childhood memories especially the heartwarming ost that's nostalgic.Was this review helpful to you?
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 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?
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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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?
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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DONT KEEP HIGH EXPECTATIONS
Today is 23rd july 2025 and i have watch 17 episodes still 7 more to go. But so far the story is strong but, after she starts her college it started getting boring and dragged. The male lead is out of the scene, but female lead still wants to know where he is. And also in ep 17 her frnds see a post of male lead [jian qiaoxi] on some social media platform, and we still dont know if they tell her or not. Where i got bored was the last 2 episodes, so boring its about the friends she makes in college. It just didnt sit with me well. She is a yearner but he dosent care. Idk something is so wrong about this. But still she is a lover girl and im here for it!!! Lets see what happens.Was this review helpful to you?
"That kind of devotion, it was unrestrained."
“Our Generation” is a heartfelt and beautifully filmed story, but can be a bit of a gloomy watch.It follows a group of childhood friends nearing the end of high school as they navigate crushes, rivalries, and family strife.
Zhao Jin Mai plays Lin Ying Tao (“Cherry”), a lively young woman who’s a bit of a troublemaker and feels things intensely. Even after years apart, she can’t forget her childhood companion, Jiang Qiao Xi.
Qiao Xi is a top student who’s considered a prodigy, but he's also reserved and not the most emotionally intelligent. With an unhappy family life and a controlling, emotionally abusive mother, the only time he ever smiles is around Cherry.
The two had a deep bond as children, but when they reunite in high school, they have to fight hard to rekindle their friendship — first against misunderstandings, then against people actively trying to keep them apart and unexpected circumstances.
Both actors do a fine job portraying the transition from teens to young adults. They deliver a palpable chemistry as friends who clearly adore each other but aren’t quite sure how to express it. Zhang Ling He in particular gives a nuanced performance — his Qiao Xi has a sadness and maturity that gives the character a magnetic presence. It’s a shame they spend much of the series apart.
I was expecting a sweet coming-of-age story from the trailer, but there ended up being more heartbreak than I anticipated. However, the relationship between the leads is a beautiful one characterized by an unrestrained devotion (as one of their classmates puts it) that endures through hardship to a happy ending. This kind of deep and unwavering commitment at such a young age might not be very realistic, but it makes for good fiction.
So many dramas feature miscommunication or people saying things they don’t mean, and while there’s some of that here, “Our Generation” also has a number of extended conversations where characters talk through their problems and properly express their emotions, especially in the last several episodes. It’s refreshing, and some of the best dialogue I’ve encountered in a drama.
With the right expectations for what kind of story you’re getting into, it’s a worthwhile watch — aside from good writing and performances, the series also features some nice music and is filmed in a warm, nostalgic color palette.
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Love begets Love
This series made me understand the fact that a person needs to be loved to know how to love others.Yingtao grew up in a very loving family and knew how to show JQX the love he needed endlessly whereas JQX who was sidelined to the memories of his dead brother and was not loved for who he is by his parents didn't know how to love himself and he extended this same mindset to Yingtao and his other friends believing that people can only ever love the exceptional version of himself.
I really got to see how much the environment a child grows in gets to affect their general outlook on life and their belief systems.
Honestly this series was real.... it wasn't the usual rosy love stories we get to see all the time. This actually portrayed the struggles and commitments that come with loving someone.
I love the way ZLH portrayed JQX's struggle in accepting his true self and coming to love himself and let Yingtao love him without any achievements. Because it is really hard for someone who had to achieve great feats academically or live in a certain way to earn his mother's attention and love to change. Dude literally had to let go of opportunities not necessarily because he didn't want them but because he wanted people to see him beyond his achievements and rather for who he truly was.
I felt so heartbroken for JQX. I cant count the number of times i felt choked seeing a teenager think about matters that were beyond his age. I was near tears hearing the words he said to his mom at the scene she was in the hospital cuz it only takes a matured mind to say such words. He wasnt allowed tk be a child and he became matured even at the age of nine.
I really can't thank Yingtao enough for loving JQX enough to bring him to love himself. She also taught him how to love her right. Like in the scene in HongKong on the night they made up where she told him that he ought to hug her and she'll hit him.... that scene was beautiful.
Also, kudos to Qin Ye Yun and Yu Qiao for literally being the best friends Yingtao needed. I really can't heart them less. Their friendship reminded me of why i akways love the friends group trope.
In all, I don't even think I can be able to sum all that this series has made me feel. It really is a masterpiece. I might have to write another review
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Pure Love. Too Pure.
This was a pretty good coming-of-age drama and everything felt kind of relatable (ntm on Zhang Ling He's face card, I haven't experienced that yet). Here are a few points I would love to point out:1. Jiang Qiao Xi's realistic character. I've read comments about being mad at him, and I think it shouldn't be that deep. He can be annoying due to his sudden decisions, but he didn't hurt the female lead just because he wanted to. He had his downs, but he really made up for it. His reasons were so easy to understand (though I won't justify it wholeheartedly), as he didn't get the love he deserved from his family, but his development made him love him even more.
2. This drama really made me nostalgic. I love how I can relate to this, as my childhood was pretty much the same—especially neighbors being close to us, some even our relatives. Their neighborhood was so healthy and I love them so much 😭
3. Lin Ying Tao's love was honestly not that heroic for me, as what others have mentioned. If I was in her position and saw that my love—or even my friend—had been in a bad situation for like, all his life? I would do the same. It honestly wasn't as severe as I've read from the reviews. Or maybe I had just watched dramas where the FL sacrificed more than what the FL did in this drama???
Overall, I love this so much. The soundtracks were literally perfect—especially that one where a child was singing. It really gave off the feeling of youth and having childhood friends you can rely on. I LOVE IT SO MUCH! 3rd drama for this couple please 🙏🏻
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