adorable second chance romance with a girlboss FL and princess ML
truth to be told i went in expecting pure fluff and nothing else, i was surprised with the angst but i still ate it up tbhthis drama is so much more than a romance and i loved it
what i liked:
-the fl is easily one of the best written ever. My girls is smart, courageous, strong willed and knows what she wants. I know some may view her as obsessive or weird which is crazy to me bcz all i see is a girl who has a heart of gold and a lot of love to share. Her love for qiaoxi is one of the purest ever, we got girl competing with sang yan (TFF) in the yearning game.
truth is, although the way she cares for qiaoxi is very special obviously, we see she is like that to everyone she loves, for example when we see her with yeyun, the way she does everything in her zpower to win her friend back over, its beautiful, we really see her values there.
i believe there is nothing embarrassing over fighting for someone you truly love.
-the ml is really one of the good-er complex male leads. zlh is a great actor so he really brought him to life, it is to be understood that bro has been through serious trauma, imagine growing up in the shadow of someone who died.
his indecisiveness, cold frontier, all made sense.
His actions and feelings were valid, and his genuine effort to make up for them was nice.
-i liked that this drama wasn't ONLY a romance, in the start they focused on her friend group and the other members in the Qunshan squad, i found that adorable. in particular yeyun's character, her relationship with her dad was heartwarming and it made me cry.
-the cinematography was beautiful, really made every shot feel alive.
-another thing that i loved, yingtao's ''behavior'' wasn't glossed over in the drama,
everyone around showed concern over her with the qioaxi thing, some warned her, other discouraged her, almost the same as the negative reviews here, despite that her actions were true to the character that she is
the letters, the pining during the school years, it wasn't cringe at all imo. That was typical teenage girl behavior, the random bickering and helping her friend, thats what teenage girls are like and they portrayed that in yingtao perfectly.
If she wasn't the way she was, qiaoxi would've never gathered the strength to break free of his mothers hold, she really is his hero.
what i didnt like:
-the pacing was a little off at times,
a lot of things did not make sense to me and at the end i felt there were somethings missing. The main leads got good closure BUT the side characters that were significant to the plot at the start kinda jst disappeared at the end.
the pacing was either too slow or too fast at times, when it was too slow i got bored during the middle, and when it was too fast i felt nothing was being explained in the way that i hoped.
we didnt get to see more into the other squad members life/professions when at the start it felt like they would.
overall:
its a great nonetheless,
watch if you're in the mood for a angst second chance romance where the fl chases the ml.
if u can ignore the choppy pacing and enjoy the drama for what it is, it's for you.
8.5/10
would recommend
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Our Generation is not your typical coming-of-age drama.
It portrays real life where the female lead and male lead stumble through youth, facing struggles in their own unique.It feels authentic and there’s nothing wrong with the female lead pursuing the male lead as she’s simply being honest with her heart and following it.
The friendships in the story are also portrayed warmly and meaningfully.
Don’t be discouraged by the low rating on MDL. If you’re curious, watch it yourself and form your own opinion , not based on what others say, but on how the drama makes you feel.
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Its a very cute youth drama...
I do my reviews on just my opinion you don't have to agree.First I am going to mention the kids that played all the main actors as children I found them so adorable and they did so well at portraying their characters. I think they deserve to be mentioned though I understand some may not agree.
Jiang Qiao Xi
I am a Zhang Ling He fan and again I don't think he disappoints in this drama. Some of his facial expressions especially the one where he looks at Cherry in the gym I found just so cute. I love watching him no matter what he does. I do think that they could of showed more of him. I was a little disappointed there and that they should of went more in depth of his character. It just left a lot of people thinking he was the bad guy and he wasn't. He had just been through a lot since he was a kid and was struggling on figuring himself out. It was obvious how much he loved Cherry which is why he didn't want to bring her down with him. I also love the chemistry between Zhang Ling He and Zhao Jin Mai, and they could of done more with it but this is a youth drama and you just kind of expect that. Still all that being said still loved Zhang Ling He in this so much.
Lin Ying Tao (Cherry)
I loved her character just everything about her. This girl proved to be so strong even in the worst moments for her even when she was a child. She remains true to her bond and feelings for Jiang Qiao Xi and she never wavers even when friends tell her to move on. She really was his little hero and it was so cute. Zhao Jin Mai I am becoming a fan of hers with the more dramas I watch of hers (two of them being with Zhang Ling He). This drama also mainly just focuses on her so I am glad I like her acting. I even really loved the little girl who played her, but if you like her or Zhang Ling He it really gets you through this drama. I just wanted to see more of their interactions.
The Story
I will say the story as a whole does leave something lacking. Which is why I didn't rate this higher. They really could of done more with Jiang Qiao Xi so you could understand him more but they didn't. It also felt like they focused on things that really were not important to the story of Cherry and Jiang Qiao Xi. I also don't understand the hate for Yu Qiao. I really liked the actor who played him and thought he was such a good friend for Cherry to have. Even though he had feelings for Cherry he understood where she stood with her feelings for Jiang Qiao Xi and he wasn't selfish. So I also didn't mind that they did focus a lot on him. I just feel like they could of done more with it. There was just something really missing when I got to the end of it. I just really wanted something more, but for Zhang Ling He and Zhao Jin Mai I think it is worth the watch I don't think they disappoint at all.
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This review may contain spoilers
A Surprisingly Deep and Emotional Journey
You Don’t Need to Be Perfect to Be Loved
You don’t need to be perfect to be with the person you love. When you meet the one, their presence alone can make your flaws feel seen, accepted—and ultimately, healed.
I started this series with low expectations, assuming it would be another light, predictable youth romance drama. What caught my interest was the male lead, whom I’ve only seen in period dramas. I was curious to see how his performance would translate in a modern setting. This was also my first time seeing the female lead and most of the supporting cast—and I must say, the FL truly shines here. She commands the screen with strength and subtlety.
What sets this drama apart is its fresh take on the “prince and commoner” trope. For once, it’s the heroine who rescues the prince—not the other way around. On the surface, the male lead has it all: wealth, looks, intelligence. But behind the charm is a man running from the shadows of his past—burdens, secrets, and emotional scars he can’t escape.
The story unfolds slowly, and at times the pacing may test your patience. But the payoff is worth it. The pivotal scene for me was their reunion in Hong Kong. Everything came together there—the setting, cinematography, musical scoring, and screenplay were perfectly aligned. It was raw, moving, and unforgettable. That moment encapsulated the glaring contrast between the character’s public image and his private struggles. We witness the painful descent of someone once on a pedestal, now completely shattered. And yet, that fall carries deep emotional weight and meaning.
Some say beauty is a curse—but for him, it’s his brilliant mind that’s both a gift and a burden. His intelligence, once a shield, becomes a source of pain. He thought he had all the answers—but life proved otherwise. It takes his “princess” to help him face reality, and in doing so, find redemption.
The final episodes are the true highlight. The acting, especially during the emotional climax, is powerful and deeply affecting. If you stick with it, the journey is rewarding—messy, emotional, at times frustrating, but honest and real.
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Female Lead love Story
I actually loved this show. I don’t get the hate and I don’t understand why people are dropping it. If the female lead was a guy I am sure people will hail him for being so romantic. Sometimes the woman is the hero and she needs to save the prince. That is what happened here! She loved him enough for him to love himself. If you want a woman centric story. This is it!! No male hero here, she did all the work for both of them.The only reason this is not a 10 is because I agree that Zhang Linghe looked a little too old for the role. But the acting was great!!!! From everyone involved.
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This review may contain spoilers
A really good youth/slice of life/romance drama
The drama mainly centers around teen/highschool friendship, rather romance (since they're pretty young most of the drama lol). I really liked YT and QX's storyline with the "right person wrong time" trope- they're so cute tgt. At some points it started to get a little out of hand though- like wydm he ghosted her for how many years and they reconnected like it was nothing (well not really but ygm) and wdym it happened TWICE. Like come on now... where's the resentment, the anger, like how come YT was so understanding. I feel like YT could've held a larger grudge. But its a drama so I get it.Some characters pmo (mainly QX's MOM OMG) but it played a huge role in the overall plot so its ok. The girl friend (YY) in the first few episodes also pmo but its wtv- her character development was... okay idk actually she was still pmo towards the end when she didn't want to tell YT that QX was in HK- but she I liked her in terms of her romance line (or lack thereof) with YQ.
Took off a few points for the plot just because I didn't like the time skip to when QX was in HK. Felt like it was way too sudden.
I really liked ZJM and ZLH in this drama. Loved how big of a contrast this is (modern drama) to the princess royal (historical).
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Plot and Main Themes
The drama follows the story of Lin Qi Le, a vibrant young woman who grew up in a small town surrounded by love and joy, and Jiang Qiao Xi, a genius with a troubled and traumatic family life. The plot unfolds over the years, showing the characters' maturation and the challenges of their relationship.
The central themes of the series are:
Maturity: The plot depicts the protagonists' journey from youth to adulthood, addressing choices, mistakes, and personal growth.
Youth and Dreams: The series explores the aspirations and challenges typical of this stage of life, such as career choices, first loves, and the search for a place in the world.
Trauma and Mental Health: Jiang Qiao Xi's story is a crucial point, addressing how childhood trauma affects adulthood and the protagonist's role in "saving" him.
Emotional Dependence: One of the most debated points is Lin Qi Le's emotional dependence, which she sacrifices her own life to help her beloved, sparking discussions about what constitutes a healthy relationship.
Family Relationships: The drama contrasts the families of the two protagonists, showing the difference between the unconditional support of Lin Qi Le's parents and the pressure and abuse suffered by Jiang Qiao Xi.
Strengths and Weaknesses (Review)
The drama is praised for its emotional depth and the compelling performances of Zhao Jin Mai and Zhang Ling He. Many fans are moved by the protagonists' love story and the happy ending. The couple's chemistry is one of the biggest highlights, and the series is seen as a beautiful story of overcoming obstacles and dedication.
However, the drama has also been the target of criticism:
Slow Pace: Some viewers found the development of the romance too drawn-out, especially the part where the protagonist "chases" her beloved for years.
Emotional Dependence: The theme of Lin Qi Le's addiction is considered problematic by some, who question her decision to sacrifice her own life for love.
Low Screen Time for Supporting Characters: The friendship between the characters is a positive point, but many felt the friends' stories lacked greater depth.
Overall, Our Generation is a drama that divides opinions, but its emotional impact is undeniable. If you enjoy dramas with coming-of-age stories, overcoming trauma, and intense romance, it's worth giving it a try. The series is perfect for those who enjoy a deep plot and easily engage with the characters' journeys.
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All sort of Asian Emotions perfectly blended ; A story of growth & Friendship
"Our Generation" is a very heartwarming story of a few 90s children growing up with time.The drama shows their journey from the start of the Millennium,when they were 9 years old,in the mountains of the small town Qunshan.Four childhood friends,who grew up in that neighborhood together, had a brief encounter with Jiang Qiaoxi,who had moved to Qunshan for a short time but later went back to the Provincial City.However, They All met again together in 2006, in their high school Era ; &The story starts to unfold. In the high school arc,the viewers see the extent of Jiang Qiaoxi's Mom's character, how abusively controlling she has been to her son in his whole life.She is one of the worst Moms ever portrayed in cdramas..At this point,Jiang Qiaoxi had always had a long-term goal in his life: to escape his home, the city, and his past of living as a substitute of his late brother in his own family.
3rd arc comes with Our Qunshan squads being in their young adulthood,when they are 20 years old,all in their different Majors in universities,some abroad & some in different cities.This arc is what Romance lovers will be particularly looking forward to,as the main leads finally got together after so much ups & downs in their life.
The 4th arc continues from the 3rd arc & shows their gradual growth towards adulthood. When i was reading the novel for the first time,The Ending chapters gave me so much warmth & comfort,seeing them gradually reaching 30s, & the bond of their families still as strong as ever, the Friendships even stronger.
[Special Mention : The childhood arc,although It lasted only one episode,My Applause for these Child actors who performed Sooo in-depth & incredibly well ]
Tbh i cried each & every episode till now, even if It's not a drama with a heavy plot.I'm a late 90s kid,but i could relate with a lot of things the leads were going through..The emotional depth of the story & characters are on point, the actors were almost perfect portraying that depth as well.In the End, It becomes a story of courage & independence,of family & parents,and education, and most importantly, of LOVE.
As I'm Someone who hold my friends in high regard,just like Lin yingtao...i can ensure you, if you are someone who values friendship above everything else,& chase the people you care about, Chase & care them as much as you chase your dreams & goals,this drama is for you.Their journey of 30 years will tear you up,& their happy ending will make you immensely happy & content.
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Not worth watching at all totally different from novel
This drama is totally different from novelNovel is far more batter and intresting drama is fucking irriting i like the actress thats i watching this other wise they twist the whole story this is frustrating for novel reader's only the name remain same otherwise totally different novel is cute not cringe drama is all about fucking friends and they deliberately trying to create love triangle.
There is nothing like in novel
Only lead actor's are good
Rest of supporting cast is annoying most important if you had read the novel i recommend don't watch it you will be disappointe
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This review may contain spoilers
Should've been longer
I've read articles about this drama that it was supposed to have 40 episodes, now that I have finished it I can see why.The pacing was weird every episode, the cut seems off, there are dialogues that never used only scenes and mute.
I still like the overall story, coming of age, bestfriends, love that started as friends. But it feels unfinished, it feels raw, it really needs more episodes to flush out better storytelling. I would've like to see Yu Qiao and Ye Yun to have something, I would've like to see Qiao Xi mother to come and fix there relationship, I would've like to see the year when Yin Tao comeback to China.
Now with the positive, I really love Zhao Jin Mai acting here, it is her best even surpasses her acting in Amidst a Snowstorm of love. ZLH did a phenomenal acting too even with his character not being the best. They're chemistry when both in the screen really blends well. Now with their friend group, I really like it even when they don't get a lot of screen time. Ye Yun and Yu Qiao sacrifices are cruel to not end up together in the end but it was well written and really shine their friendship to Yin Tao.
Overall, its still a great watch. Just don't get high hopes, watch it for the acting more or less.
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Great performances and music
Really enjoyed this show. Although some of the ML's struggles are a little unoriginal, the performances of the two main characters, especially FL are top notch and the second half of the drama is far better than the first, which has a few missteps imo. Really enjoyed all the stuff in HK, and the music was great. At heart this is a touching story of coming to terms with our own failures and allowing others to accept us. Very good 👍👍👍Was this review helpful to you?
bad story great acting
سریال خوشگلیه مخصوصا قسمتای اولش.بازیا هم واقعااا خوبن و اصلا مصنوعی نیست.
ولی نویسندگیش تو نیمه دوم سریال واقعا ناامیدکننده بود. حیف شد یه جورایی
نمیدونم اینکه میگن قرار بوده ۴۰ قسمت باشه بعد ۲۴ قسمت شده درسته یا نه. اگر اینجوری بوده احتمالا برای همین یه سری صحنههای بیفایده داره. البته که با این نویسندگی و این قصه خداروشکر که ۴۰ قسمتی نبود
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