What Is Not To Like?
I believe everything in the rave of this drama has been accurately expressed in most, if not all that’s said already. I mean it’s about nearly perfectly executed. A girls love in every step from when she felt it to its maturation, is so relatable to us, no matter what age. For older ones (me), it’s a reminder of that time when our stomachs felt butterflies in our crushes. Younger generation? Yeah, this is a great portrayal of union done right. The leads, Zhao Lusi and Chen Zhe Yuan, absolutely nailed their parts and carried this drama to a nestling masterpiece.I particularly loved the way she cared for him. She’s much younger than him ((story) but her defense of him, from giving him money, to throwing water, to comforting him like she’s his mother was so touching. I don’t want to get mushy on everyone so really. Find out for yourself why this drama scored so high among viewers. It has a great storyline and wonderfully acted by its main and supporting cast. Of course, bravo to screen writer and producer and their team.
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A SOLID 10 OUT OF 10 FOR 2023 C-DRAMA
OMG, this drama seriously so good. This is solid 10 to me.I ended up watching it because it is currently ranked 5 on Netflix in my country, and I was curious as to why so many people talk about it.
It was my biggest mistake to listen to the haters. There is no such thing as a crime or sinful scenes.
I saw one influential youtuber discuss this drama, and for the record, those are baseless accusations and claims made by her and her supporters. I know they're all giving this drama one star while giving another drama ten. Thank goodness, this drama is currently No. 1 in MDL, and I'm sure those haters are hoping every second that this drama will flop. Anyway, who cares about the haters when this drama has become so popular both domestically and internationally. They can't change that fact.
I'm not sure if I watched HL after The Glory, but this drama feels like holy water washes away our sins and hatred after watching The Glory.
This drama has a fluffy and cute couple, positive characters from both leads, a lovely sibling, understanding parents, a supportive friend, and a protective couple. In a nutshell, the best drama of this genre.
I have a lot of favourite characters in this series, but my favourite is undoubtedly our female lead, Sang Zhi. She was raised and spoiled by a wonderful family.
Despite being spoiled by her parents and brother, she knows how to be polite, stand on her own two feet and fight, take responsibility for her future, and recognise her own worth.
Now, let's talk about acting. Without Zhao Lusi and Chen Zhe Yuan's performances, I don't think we'd be able to capture this couple's chemistry. This drama is primarily focused on the two leads.
As I previously stated, this is a simple drama, but when there is a sad scene, they deliver it exceptionally well. I cried a lot during the airport scenes and when DJX is crying and bawling after hugging SZ.
As for the soundtrack, I think it's fantastic, with no bad songs. Forever Star, Star Thief, and Be Your Light are some of my favourites.
Anyway, please send HL a lot of love. I give it a ten out of ten.
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This review may contain spoilers
Go watch Hidden Love now!!!!
It's a beautiful series, and I think it deserves all the hype. I love how all that ends up, and without a doubt, it is one of the most outstanding cdramas in 2023.Story:
In this story, a girl named Sang Zhi falls in love with Duan Jia Xu, her brother's best friend. Jia Xu regards Sang Zhi as a sister, yet Sang Zhi has started having feelings for him. As time passed, he developed feelings and fell in love with Sang Zhi.
The various periods of Sang Zhi and Duan Jia Xu are depicted throughout the plot, which is very well developed, from when they first met to when they started dating. It is very light and airy and shows various stages of relationships.
Cast:
Zhao Lu Si (Sang Zhi) and Chen Zhe Yuan (Duan Jia Xu) worked effectively in depicting their personality. They have fantastic chemistry on-screen and off-screen. They are the greenest of green flags, and their relationship is healthy. The series gets better because of the characters' excellent communication and comprehension. ZLS demonstrates how Sang Zhi matures as a character. Victor Ma also did an excellent job of portraying a brother who is a bother to his sister and still cares about her no matter what.
Twenty-five episodes is most certainly insufficient for me, but rather, it's without a doubt the ideal length. I, as of now, need to watch it again as it is beautiful, as it were. I strongly encourage anyone who hasn't seen it to try this drama—it's a warm and beautiful work of art!
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This review may contain spoilers
A Fairytale of Love
Once upon a time, you have a young princess who met her prince. She liked the prince the moment that she saw him. That is how I felt watching this drama. A beautiful woven fairytale of love.In our lifetime we are fortunate to receive the most unexpected gift, you didn't really think it would be that extraordinary but with "Hidden Love" it is. This drama resonates with so many of us that we are transported back to our youth and relive our moments of our own first love.
As soon we Shang Zhi we know that she is a girl that is full of sweetness, naivete, and childlike qualities and there is such a depth of kindness and love that you cannot help but want to protect and embrace her. That is how Duan Jia Xu felt about Shang Zhi. Being her protector but it was really Shang Zhi who was the protector. She helped Duan Jia Xu understand that even though life had thrown him the worst struggles and disappointments, he was more than worthy of being loved.
It was so exciting to see their love blossom over so many years until you felt like family watching your own daughter in this relationship and cheering her on. We felt all of her heartaches, tears, joys and misunderstandings. You feel yourself wanting to help her fix everything and keep the beautiful world that she envisions not only for herself but Duan Jia Xu as well.
Many may go in with a jaded attitude and not feel what I or others feel about this drama and that is ok. But if you just allow yourself to think about the most important love that you had in your life--you will understand. It's just magical.
You find yourself, laughing, smiling, crying and just overjoyed with this fairytale of love. But you know there has never been a fairytale without an obstacle, and you would think it would have been Shang Zhi's parents, but it was actually Duan Jia Xu himself.
Her parents always like Duan Jia Xu but felt the problems that he had in the past with his family would be an issue with moving forward in their relationship. Duan Jia Xu was not to be deterred. After speaking with Shang Zi at the airport he understood and stated to her clearly his feelings and love for her.
Here is the following monologue from episode 24:
Shang Zhi: "Why did you drink? What's wrong? I'll get you something hot to drink."
Duan Jia Xu: "Why did you wake up?"
Shang Zhi: "Are you in a bad mood?"
Duan Jia Xu: "I think I treat you badly."
Shang Zhi: "When did you treat me badly? Is it because of what I said to you at the airport today? I told you because I just wanted you to know. Since you didn't know before, that's why I wanted to tell you. But I didn't want you to feel...You treat me very well. Whether it's the past or now, you still treat me well. It's true."
Duan Jia Xu: "Shang Zhi, I love you. I'm sorry, Zhi. I've said this too late. Over the years, I know I've made you sad. It was your unwavering dedication that made me realize that I'm not good enough. My imperceptive or indecisiveness. None of it was good. But for these shortcomings, I'll try my best to make it up to you for every day we spend together. Zhi, I won't forget the choice you made. I love you, Shang Zhi."
What else can you say after that? Oh, I do.... they lived happily ever after! The End!
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A drama adaptation that stayed true to the original source material
This drama has a special place in my heart. To be honest, when I heard that the novel will have a drama adaptation, I had my doubts. Given that most adaptations don't really give justice to the original source material, I really thought this project won't go well. Fortunately, I was totally wrong! I love how they closely followed the novel. The vital scenes that kept the story standing together were well executed. I must say some of the scenes was even better in the drama than what I have imagined while I was reading the novel. The Female and Male leads down to the supporting casts had created this dynamic that will made you feel a sense of comfort from just watching a fictional show. The acting felt so real and natural. Interactions are not forced with no over the top expressions. Lines were delivered perfectly especially from the leads from the funny sibling interactions to Duan Jia Xu and Sang Zhi's conversations which made me so emotional. I also love how they showed Sang Zhi's university life and Duan Jia Xu work life normally. Sang Zhi's interactions with her roommates felt so relatable and nostalgic as well. Moreover, the leads were so character coded and their chemistry were off the charts! I almost forgot they're just acting. The greenest couple I have witnessed in dramaland. 💚 Their genuine care, love, and trust with each other made me realize that I may not find a love like that. 😀 I definitely cried in single. 😭💘Was this review helpful to you?
Unfolding a Delicate Love Story!❤️
"Hidden Love" is a delightful and heartwarming youth romance drama that portrays the naive and sweet feelings of a young girl experiencing her first crush. The drama provides a refreshing and realistic portrayal of the protagonist, Sang Zhi, capturing the essence of youthful love and the little things one does for someone they admire."Hidden Love" brings a fresh and natural perspective to the gradual development of feelings between a girl and a brother figure. While there have been other plots exploring similar dynamics, this drama manages to stand out and feel distinctively different. It deviates from the typical college senior or classmate love stories, offering a unique twist that captures the viewers' attention.
What sets "Hidden Love" apart is the natural progression of the relationship between Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu. The story carefully navigates their connection, allowing their bond to grow organically over time. It avoids clichés and contrived plotlines, ensuring that the romance feels genuine and authentic.
The acting is truly outstanding and feels incredibly authentic. Zhao Lusi delivers a remarkable performance, especially in her portrayal of a school girl. Her convincing acting makes it easy to believe that she is actually that innocent and young. Chen Zhe Yuan, as the male lead, shines in his role, successfully bringing the character of Duan Jiaxu to life. His portrayal captures the essence of an older brother figure, showcasing a genuine and caring relationship with Sang Zhi. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, adding depth and believability to their on-screen connection.
The supporting characters play a crucial role in advancing the story and leaving a lasting impact on viewers. Although the drama primarily focuses on the main characters, it skillfully incorporates the supporting cast to provide glimpses into their lives and personalities. This allows for a deeper understanding of each character without extending the length of the series.
One standout supporting character is Sang Yan, Sang Zhi's brother. The connection between Sang Zhi and Sang Yan is beautifully portrayed, showcasing a realistic and loving sibling relationship. These moments of bickering not only add humor and entertainment value but also make the audience feel a sense of familiarity and connection.
The presence of these supporting characters not only adds dimension to the drama but also enhances the overall storytelling. Their interactions with the main characters provide valuable insights and moments of growth. Despite not being the central focus, their impact on the narrative is significant and leaves a deep impression.
"Hidden Love" effectively balances the exploration of the main characters' journeys while giving enough attention to the supporting cast. This approach allows viewers to connect with and appreciate the various characters, making the drama a well-rounded and satisfying watch.
The songs featured, such as "Be Your Light" and "Forever Star," enhance the drama by perfectly aligning with the scenes and evoking the intended emotions. "Be Your Light" serves as the backdrop for the romantic and adorable moments between the leads, capturing the sweetness and innocent blushes that accompany their interactions. The lyrics and melody complement these scenes, adding an extra layer of charm to their budding romance. On the other hand, "Forever Star" comes into play when the storyline calls for more depth and intensity in their relationship. This song creates a sense of emotional gravity, emphasizing the significant moments and hurdles that the characters face. The lyrics and composition of "Forever Star" resonate with the audience, capturing heartfelt emotions and adding a layer of poignancy to their evolving romance.
While the plot may not be groundbreaking, the drama excels in the way it tells the story. The pacing is remarkable, allowing the narrative to unfold at a satisfying rhythm. As Zhao Lusi's first school drama, she showcased her talent and convincingly embodied the character. It was evident that her acting skills allowed her to effectively capture the essence of an innocent girl experiencing her first love. Duan Jiaxu's character has sparked discussions among viewers, questioning how he could show such care and protectiveness towards his friend's sister. However, understanding his background sheds light on his actions. Coming from a family lacking love and support, when he finally found a sister figure in Sang Zhi, who genuinely admires and cares for him, it's only natural for him to feel a strong sense of protectiveness and care in return. As a witness to Sang Zhi's childhood, this only strengthens his bond with her. When his romantic feelings develop for her as an adult, it is not intentional but rather a genuine spark that he takes the time to verify before confidently expressing his affection. Regarding comments about the actress appearing too childish, it's important to note that Sang Zhi's character does have a certain level of innocence and childishness. However, her growth throughout the drama is not one-sided. She displays strength and resilience when needed, standing up for herself and her loved ones. Likewise, Duan Jiaxu's character is portrayed as strong and not overly protective or possessive, allowing Sang Zhi to have her own experiences and interactions with other admirers.
Overall, "Hidden Love" is a light youth modern romance drama that will take us on the path of a sweet and pure love. From start to finish, the drama engages viewers with its well-executed aspects, captivating storytelling, and all those heart-fluttering moments. The drama comes highly recommended for its well-executed aspects and its ability to keep viewers hooked from start to finish.
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This is what a producer should do to create a perfect contemporary romance drama.
I think the casting was excellent, from the main lead to the supporting casts. They did perfectly well.
I've heard there are a lot of problems before they start shooting because the original directors withdraw from these projects, so the other investors and some other actors follow along. Later, a new director takes over, and a few of ZLS's friends join to continue the project. The good news is that this director did a fantastic job directing this drama.
All the ost are in my playlist and my favourite are Star Thief, Forever star and Be your light. These 3 are so good that I keep playing everyday.
Overall. I give 10/10.
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GEM !!!!
This Drama just increased my standard Romcom. 3 days ago just finished this drama and now I don't know why i can't watch any romcom drama.The way this drama took me about 2 days to complete explains how much I loved it.
And trust me this drama had me laughing, smiling and blushing every minute.
They both were each other's first and last love and I loved the how sang zhi back then was not utterly obsessed (trust me I've read books and watched shows like these).
She just always admired him from afar and loved him regardless of his past + duan jiaxu being the greenest flag ever has raises my standards omg....
Not only Chemistry between Sang Zhi & Duan Jia Xu that i loved. I also love Chemistry between Sang Zhi and her family/friends.
"17 years Sang Zhi soo Cute :)"
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they're so beautiful, i'm gonna cry.
you'll meet the best man; the best boy; the best guy in this whole universe : Duan Jiaxu.at this point there's no one could change my mind.
the greenest flag character that i've ever met in my whole life. i had learned a lot from him; how to face the cruelest world when in reality you are at the lowest point of your life. thanks to him? thanks to the writer! bravo!
also — thanks to chen zheyuan for succesfully portrayed the duan jiaxu so well! i couldn't imagine any other actors except him tho.
shout out to the kindest & the most adorable girl ever : Sang Zhi! girl, i envy you sooo much i can not help it 😭 i wish it was me whose get the chance to accompanied djx for his whole life haha.
i don't know what's to write anymore? Hidden Love is such a gem! got a lot warmest things in this drama. give it a try! (*^▽^)/★*☆♪
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The plot is very simple. It is about a teenager crush that evolves into a beautiful relationship once reciprocated. While it is simple, I think the show did a good job overall in portraying the different stages of the relationship. There is no unnecessary angst and the tone remains light and fluffy throughout.
The only thing that makes me rate the story lower is the lack of scenes showcasing ML thoughts. The drama could have used an extra episode to flesh out ML character more. His background story is way too short and he changed from brotherly affection to full on loving the FL so quickly that I find it a bit abrupt. It would be better if there are more scenes showcasing his hesitation and motivation. The novel did a much better job fleshing out his character imo.
The casts are definitely the highlight for me. Everyone fits their role so well and the acting feels quite natural. I love all the 3 leads, though I am most impressed with Chen Zheyuan. His eyes deliver so much emotion! The chemistry between the 3 leads are amazing. I definitely will be checking out their future projects.
I also really like the OST because they fit and added so much to the scenes.
Overall I really like this drama. It is well produced and I could tell a lot of thought and effort went into it. It was good from beginning to the end. Although I feel like they could use 1 or 2 more episodes, but overall I'm very satisfied with the series.
I would recommend this drama for anyone that likes romance, slice of life, and something simple in general. This drama has been my happy pill after a long tiring day at work for the past 2 weeks, so I would definitely missed it.
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Best Cdrama ever
This is the first time I am writing review for any drama. This drama holds a very special place in my heart, even though it doesn't have any of the usual tropes that I normally like. The actors did a great job and the whole drama is the biggest green flag. Loved every single second of it.Zhao Lusi portrayed her role so cutely. I loved Sang Zhi's family especially her relationship with her brother is so funny, adorable and downright real. Her mom was so pretty and totally matched the mother-daughter duo. She had great friends/roomates in university. Chen Zhe Yuan as Duan Jia Xu stole my heart. Despite the hardships he faced, he grew up to be the most loveable, considerate and kind gentleman. Men like him don't exist in real life. He's the best thing about the show and the biggest green flag male lead ever. I fell in love with him right along with Sang Zhi through every little acts of his kindness.
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A cute love story that we all dream of
This was one of the most perfect c-dramas I have ever watched. Watching this felt like a smooth glide on the ice rink with a lot giggles, laughs and cries. It is just a really enjoyable drama and fully fulfilled my desire for a cute love story.The story is wonderful. The conflicts were resolved well and everything felt pretty logical and not out of the blue. I was really curious on how the main couple's relationship would develop and it was done really well. I liked how even with the age lead of the main couple, they showed a great deal of balance in their relationship, which is something I was a bit worried about before starting the show.
All of the actors did a fantastic job, especially the main leads. I feel like Zhao Lusi really encapsulated Sang Zhi both when she was in high school and in college. I honestly don't think I could have thought of anyone who would have done a better job than her. Chen Zheyuan was also amazing. My favorite part of his acting was definitely his eyes. His eyes are really expressive and he did so well expressing all sorts of emotions.
The music used in the drama fit very well. They are have a sort of fresh and youthful vibe to them, which is exactly what this drama's overall vibe is.
I would definitely rewatch this drama anytime I'm craving a cute love story!
Overall, this drama is just really enjoyable and very fun!
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