Hidden Love

a warm hug in a very cold day

A young love story put in a simple frame, but still shinning enough to win the one's heart!you may think that the only story is about Sang Zhi who falls in love with Jia Xu, her older brother's friend and he is 5 years older than her.
but after watching a few episodes,you get to know those characters more and find out how is Jia Xu suffers from the consequences of a painful past that his family had, he works hard since highschool, and even after graduation, he doesn't fall in love with anyone, he sometimes feel guilty. But still he is very gentle with everyone, and when Sang Zhi come back to enter his lonely world when she is finally 19 , she is still secretly in love with him, feel sad for him, and still hoping him to notice her as a girl friend not a little sister. But what i really love about these two that no matter what kind of relationship they have, they were there for each other, they protect each other.
And then they both take steps towards eachother to show us a wonderful love story full of trust and caring.
I enjoyed a lot of watching their love grows, and the romantic scene was so soft and heart warming.
The chemistry between Zhao Lu Si (Sang Zhi) and Chen Zhe Yuan (Duan Jia Xu) is unbelievable and gave me many butterflies 💫
Another thing i appreciate most is the brother-sister relationship in this drama is so real, while i watched how Sang Zhi always acted with her brother Sang Yan (Victor Ma), i thought " this is how i behave with my older brother. very funny scenes between them. So i loveeeed her brother, he was such a caring friend too.
And i liked that this story was focused only on the leads only.
The music is so good too, i liked the intro, and my favourite ost is " be your light" which I'm listening to it in repeat now.
So if you are home after a long tiring day, or even feeling depressed and blue, you must watch this drama to cheer you up. It's like a warm hug in a cold day.

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fluffy, sweet, heartwarming, and so beautiful!!

Happy first anniversary to this super cute drama! I'm rewatching it now that it's airing on one of Indonesia's channels!

i'm convinced that having a crush on an older sibling's friend is a common experience, and i'm not alone in this. Zhizhi is a cheerful and optimistic girl who is in love with her older brother's friend. Sang Zhi's story is like.. exactly what i've always wanted. seeing her grow up in this show totally feels like i'm there with her. Jia Xu is the dream boyfriend material and Sang Yan is the best big bro ever! those three are seriously unforgettable and i really love them.

i love how the story isn't too slow or fast, it gives the characters room to develop perfectly. and i love all the OST, i've been replay so many times! All the adorable stuffs fit Sang Zhi's personality so well, her family is so warm and her brother's friend group so fun. there's some conflict, sure, but it all works out in the end in the sweetest way. it feels pretty realistic too, how the characters' feelings develop, and the acting is on point!

seriously obsessed with this drama! Sang Zhi's life seems perfect and i know i'll totally rewatch it again. it's my comfort drama!

i reallt appreciate the lighthearted plot, the well-developed characters, and the heartwarming story. i also love the OSTs and the acting of the cast. i would definitely recommend this drama to anyone looking for a sweet and heartwarming watch!

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Perfect love and healing story

Even in my most favorite dramas I always had something I didn't like, there always were some flaws... but this story just PERFECT

This drama amazing in everything, its fully focused on main leads, but same time all other characters have their own charm (SZ parents, roommates, DZX friends, his boss and co worker), even if they had only a bit screen time, they wasnt just decoration or waste of time! And of course Sang Yan, I loved him as much as main leads ❤️❤️❤️ this drama has right amount of angst, to make this story more real and touching, but still be the most light, heartwarming, hilarious, comfort story ❤️

Chen Zhe Yuan and Lusi did so amazing job to bring this characters to life, their personality and relationship were so real, they always remind me my youth experience, how it feels be in love first time, first heartbreak, anxiety, excitement, comfort you can find in other person, acting was very realistic with many details and nuances, their chemistry made me feel butterflies and also made me cry.

Its also not just love story, one of the main theme is healing, forgetting and accepting❤️
I really not ready ay goodbye for this story((( there no drama like this, will miss them very much 😭

I recommend it everyone, just give it a try !

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Speechless

Production - paid a lot of attention to details and set was appropriately in synched with the scenes.
Story - Light and simple that makes viewers reminisce about their youth: first love, family and school. This series madenme feel sorry for not having an older brother to bicker with and love me the way the sibling relationship was shown here.
Directing - well directed, smooth transition of story, stayed faithful to the origonal manhua story. It is well balanced romance, family, friendship and colleague relationship. It isnt just a story about first love but also family dynamics, cultural & societal impacts, relationships, struggles, and much more that were interconnected.
Wardrobe - this isbthe area that is most times producers limit the budget. It throws viewers for a loop when wardrobe doesnt match the scenes [next day or another day scene but same outfit worn by casts]. Appropriate wardrobe shows honest goal of providing best portrayal of story that assist viewers in being able to follow the story.
Artists - the entire casts worked harmoniously together. Zhao Lusi's versatility as an actress got shown here.
I paid for Youku subscription to watch this then found out thisbjs available in Netflix which I already have.
I dont regret it because the series is worth the subscription I paid. It is very good and worth watching. I plan to watch again in Netflix.

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Hidden Love: A Heartwarming Journey Through Love and Growth

"Hidden Love" is a spellbinding youth romance drama that captures the essence of love, friendship, and personal transformation. Adapted from the novel of the same name, the series introduces us to Sang Zhi and her secret affection for Duan Jiaxu, her brother's friend, as their relationship blossoms.

This drama is a refreshing take on the genre, with a focus on heartfelt storytelling and character development. Sang Zhi's journey is portrayed with authenticity, avoiding the clichéd "love at first sight" trope. Instead, her feelings develop gradually, showcasing the realism of young love. Duan Jiaxu's character is equally well-crafted, adding depth and sincerity to the narrative.

One of the drama's standout features is its balance between tender romantic moments and the exploration of deeper emotional themes. The talented cast's comedic timing and chemistry add layers of enjoyment, making every interaction engaging and relatable.

Zhao Lusi and Chen Zheyuan deliver extraordinary performances as Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, capturing the audience's hearts and emotions. Their portrayal is a testament to their exceptional acting skills, as they convincingly bring their characters to life.

Supporting characters, including Sang Yan and the parents, contribute to the richness of the narrative, making the world feel authentic and relatable. The drama's cinematography captures the essence of youth and adds a visual dimension to the storytelling.

While a few minor drawbacks like pacing and filter choices exist, they do not overshadow the drama's overall charm. The soundtrack complements the story beautifully, adding an extra layer of emotion to the scenes.

In summary, "Hidden Love" is a captivating exploration of youthful romance and growth. With its exceptional performances, engaging storyline, and genuine characters, it offers a heartwarming viewing experience that will leave you smiling, laughing, and cherishing the journey of love. Don't miss this delightful drama that invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty of hidden emotions and blossoming relationships.

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My experience

I was Zheyuan's fan. Last year in June I heard rumors about #ChenZheyuan & #ZhaoLusi will be starred together in a drama called Hidden Love. I was so excited because of this.
Finally when they started shooting I couldn’t wait for the drama. I wanted to know the story so I started reading the novel "Secretly Secretly But Unable To Hide It". I found the story interesting. Somehow I had the feeling #HiddenLove would be a hit drama.I like #ChenZheyuan that's why i was eagerly waiting for #HiddenLove. I earlier watched #ZhaoLusi's works so I knew that she was a wonderful actress. She would slay as #SangZhi. My fingers were crossed. Hoping best for the drama. I was waiting for #HiddenLove from last year. I kept all updates so when it was confirmed that it was coming in June. I was like finally I can see #ChenZheyuan & #ZhaoLusi together. After seeing the drama I felt it was worth waiting for a year.Nowadays when I see people’s positive reviews somehow I feel proud. From the very beginning, I knew #HiddenLove would be a hit drama & Finally It's happening. People are loving #ChenZheyuan & #ZhaoLusi chemistry.

This was my story 😉💙

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Truly a rare find ! Don't ever miss watching it

I stumbled upon this rare gem of a drama by accident and started watching it. As the show moved on I found it so intesresting and facinating. It was written so thoughtfully and one could not have asked for a better writing.

Both Zhao Lu Si and Chen Zhe Yuan had lived the part actually. It is my first time watching them and their expessions were so good. It felt like I was watching something so precious. I started missing the show so much after it ended. The brother character (Sang Yan) by Victor Ma was also exceptional.

Once you are done with the show the hangover from it is so heavy that surely we will want to rewatch it many times. True drama lovers will never want to miss this gem of a show. The OSTs were so good. They suited the drama very well and captured the feel of the show aptly.
So glad I watched this show and watching it for the first time is an experience which will never come back. Amazing story and acting! Wish the dream team will do more shows together.

This is the one show where I could give full ratings without even thinking. It was that good.

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Read if you want to know what MAGIC awaits you

I loved this drama that I had to drop all my thoughts about it out into the world T-T My love for this cannot be HIDDEN >-<

I don’t think I have any dramas rated as a 10, but this was such a gem after a long time that I had to bump it from 9.5 into 10!

Everything was perfect for a nice rom-com. They didn’t spend too much time on the innocent youth part so they got to develop the sizzling chemistry. NGL FL’s voice was super annoying as a teenager. She tried to make herself seem young, but I can’t imagine a teenager acting that meek and naive. Luckily we got our normal Lusi by ep 13. No conflict lasted long. They respected each other’s wishes and worked to make each other their priority. The way he asked her permission to “woo” her was absolutely adorable! He also clearly started the relationship by explaining his life and the problems he is facing. They communicated as a couple. The way she empathized before knowing his backstory and even more so after he told her.

Her bro is such a real bro that the writer had to have modeled him after someone. He was always bullying but with all the love in the world and is her most fiercest protector.

The way the parents were protective of her is completely understandable and weary of her being with ML. They showed she grew up like a princess in their eyes.

There were no backstabbing friends (at least after middle school) unlike other cdramas. Even that friend that liked the guy that liked FL. They were all so supportive and loving.

The acting was spot on by every single actor! The way Lusi cries is so real. She had me in tears with her. ML’s cries were like all the IRL dudes I know. Trying to keep it in and wiping tears in secret and when it’s really emotional, letting out in the most heartbreaking whimpers.

None of the bad clichés. It was refreshing to not have the last minute break ups, the stupid accidents and crazy second leads.

They were truly adorable together. Relationship goals. No joke. They were cute and hot…sometimes all at the same time…when together. The marriage proposal was so cute too. I totally fell for it and thought her friend was going to get engaged.

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The Most Beautiful Realistic Love Story!

Hidden Love is a beautiful drama that you don't want to miss!
Hidden love is a romance/ youth drama full of love and hope.
The story has no angst, there is no jealous ex gfs, love triangles (Duan Jiaxu has a stalker that is a girl, but she is taken care of maturely and is not a hindrance for their relationship.) There is no breakup after getting together and a super happy ending.

STORY:
Sang Zhi falls in love with her big brother's friend, Duan Jiaxu. Duan Jiaxu is kindhearted and hardworking guy who gladly helps Sang Zhi. Duan Jiaxu moves back to his hometown Yihe after he graduates from Nanwu's university. Sangzhi and Jiaxu lose touch for 2 years before meeting again in Yihe, as Sang Zhi had gone to University in Yihe. Sang Zhi realizes that she still has a crush on Jiaxu, meanwhile Jiaxu falls for her. "She fell first, but he fell harder"

SPOILER PART OF THE STROY, MY OPINION:
Duan Jiaxu unfortunately has to carry a heavy weight on his shoulders as his father had done a hit-and-run and now Duan Jiaxu alone is trying to make up to the victim's family. The victim's daughter, Jiang Ying, is stalking Duan Jiaxu obsessively, but when face to face with Sang Zhi, Sang Zhi isn't afraid of her and stands up for Duan Jiaxu. The matter with Jiang Ying is taken care of very maturely by Duan Jiaxu giving her a restraining order. It was refreshing to see the main lead not getting too sad, anxious or scared for herself, but actually more worried about her boyfriend and his safety. It was also refreshing that Duan Jiaxu gave her a restraining order instead of letting her act the way she wants or getting guilt-tripped to think that he doesn't deserve Sang Zhi.
There were no breakups or misunderstandings, and I loved it. It was a beautiful drama of a childhood crush becoming a real, passionate love. Furthermore, it was a beautifully made drama and one of the best modern dramas I have seen.


ACTING:

Zhao Lusi as Sang Zhi,
She was THE MUST-HAVE in this drama. Her acting was just so cute, natural and realistic. She did well, acting as a small teenager in love that grew up to be a kindhearted adult. Beautiful acting.

Chen Zheyuan as Duan Jiaxu,
Cute, Mischievous and mature, he can act it all. It was really a great pick to have him act as Duan Jiaxu.

Victor Ma as Sang Yan (San Zhi's older brother).
He acted well as Sang Zhi's brother. Made me sometimes think that Zhao Lusi and Victor Ma might as well be real siblings after this, since their acting was so believable.

I'm giving this a 10. Truly worth my time. I will rewatch this definitely sometime.

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Definitely worth all the hype

To begin with, this is my very first review. I hardly ever review anything at all, but this time I just can't hold my emotions. Secondly, melodrama is not my genre of choice. I normally find melodramas rather boring to watch, but this is absolutely NOT the case.

This title is just amazing. Literally everything about 'Hidden Love' makes it an outstanding viewer experience:
- the story is sweet, relatable, at times funny, at times sad, always profound and thought provoking;
- the music is lovely and in tune with the overall aesthetics of the series;
- no stupid cringy moments or vulgar jokes that can make some viewers uncomfortable;
- events unfold at a very comfortable pace - the story keeps moving and you don't feel bored a second, but at the same time you do not feel pushed by the creators as in some action-packed dramas.

But most importantly the cast - I loved them all! With me, I often find that one of the main leads doesn't match the other in terms of visuals or acting skills, but in this drama both the ML and the FL were incredibly fine in all respects, and the chemistry between them was nearly palpable. Support role actors were also great. So there is literally nothing about this drama that I would change, it is too good. The only drawback, I guess, is that after watching it I got a drama hangover I won't be able to overcome soon :-) Very much looking forward to the news projects of CZY and ZLS!

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The kind that will make you have butterflies

If you're wondering and going through the review to see if you should watch this series or not, then without a second thought, dive into it. You'll fall in love with the characters, Sang Zhi as a whole will be someone you'll relate to because like her we have all had crushes in our school life , whom we kept to ourselves , we admired , respected them from a distance knowing that they can never be ours 😭😭 🥺

Duan Zixu is one of the greeenest flag someone can ever be 🥺💜
So trust me , you won't regret it 💜 I didn't, and I have waited for it to finish to bingewatch at once 🥺💜

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