Xi Jiang Month Club (2021)

Watching this felt like falling down 51 rabbit holes—and none led to Wonderland

Before beginning my review, I must admit that my frustration with finding a translated version of the drama influenced my opinion; so I watched the raw version instead. The problem wasn’t my language comprehension (I grasped about 75%), but the messy video organization—51 links for a mere 18 two-minute episodes! It was incredibly frustrating searching for the episodes, which weren’t in order, and I had to sift through related videos just to find them.  

What was expected to be a 36-minute watch (if the 18x2 detail is accurate) stretched to 3 hours. Was it worth all the trouble? NO. Absolutely not!! I am sparing you the effort!!! I assigned myself as one of the sacrificial lambs to tell you how this drama isn’t worth it unless you find a source where it can give you everything in one shot.  

First of all, the poster is misleading. Nowhere in the show did they dress up remotely like they did in the poster. Shen Hao Nan spent 90% of the show in a pale blue wig that made him like a 17-year-old version of Vic Zhou if Vic Zhou was into cosplay. Second, Tang Xin spent half the drama evading her friend’s weak advances; however, the drama presented Wei Lai’s similar stalker-like behavior, including several uninvited visits to her house, as a romantic pursuit.  

Third, the play’s message is that you shouldn’t pursue your passions unless it pays the bills, thus implying that you should work in a “real” job; or better yet, rely on your parent’s wealth if they have some, because that’s all you will be ever be good enough to do.    

A better title for this drama would be “Curb Your Ambition” or “Don’t Be Stubborn,” highlighting both my and Wei Lai’s fruitless efforts.

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