Pursuit of The FL Whom The Screenwriter For No Reason Suddenly Turned Into An Background Wallpaper
This drama started brilliantly. The entire 1st half and world buildup in Lin'an was done perfectly to the T. I was really invested in the story, and Changyu was brilliantly portrayed and written. She had nice fighting scenes and her character progressed nicely. The cinematography was just breathtaking. The main leads had natural chemistry and companionship. Later as the story progressed and Changyu found out about the real identity of the male lead, the writing became rushed and Fan Changyu's character was compromised. The screenwriter spoiled the consistency and character progression in FL's character for the comedic relief and that is something I am utterly disappointed with. Furthermore, her own journey towards becoming a female general was absolutely butchered. Her character regressed and as a viewer, I could not relate to her becoming a general at all. It did not feel natural to me due to the writing. The writing and character progression of her character was sidelined and towards the end, I felt like she was just a general in name only and was reduced to an wallpaper who is the love interest of the ML. The screenwriter gave too much time in the first half and later rushed to compress everything together. The casting though was brilliant and everyone performed brilliantly. Overall, the first half was a beautiful watch and the 2nd half was a decent watch only due to the mindblowing cinematography of the director.Was this review helpful to you?
Pursuit of Jade - Most Swoonworthy Chinese Drama ever on OTT
I could not get my eyes of Zhang Ling He , OMG he is the most handsome human to ever walk on this planet. Of course Tian Xiwei and every other character did a great job, but Zhang Ling He is outstanding. His walk, his looks, his guarded eyes and his style are impeccable, he dominates the entire screen with his presence. That said, the story line is a masterpiece and absolutely believable, each character does their job well, the scenes are beautifully played out. The war sequences are masterful and Qi Min also is a striking figure. The last episode number 40 was a delight to watch, giving the ending two probables was a master stroke. This Chinese Drama outranks every other drama I have ever watched. And it is totally binge worthy - infact you will be forced to binge watch, both the story and the characters are outstanding. But I am going to watch it again all 40 episodes.Was this review helpful to you?
Sadly, this is a poorly written drama.
More than a week has passed and it’s getting annoying how hard I try to help others understand the politics and the details of this drama. That just goes to show how it’s poorly written. The first part was done well, made us immerse in the story and in the art— cinematography, scoring, costumes, set design, etc. But the second half especially towards the end didn’t even give justice to how we all expected the root of the story will be well-explained. It didn’t help that Tian XiWei is so romance-averse that it showed a lot on the screen, making their intimate scenes so awkward that not even the great kisser Linghe could salvage it.Not to mention how bad the marketing strategy was, mainly capitalizing on Linghe but didn’t even protect him after it backfired. They even allowed leaks to be released, jeopardizing the entire show as a whole. As much as I loved the entire month of March for celebrating PoJ, I hated how the bad parts of it will stay with me forever. The new CP fans are even so entiled, they’d be spamming in every other edits of Linghe’s other CP fans. Please let’s learn to respect everyone’s projects. The world doesn’t revolve on Pursuit of Jade.
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i enjoyed this high as f rated cdrama cos why not?
I tried to understand why the rating is so high and given that i also enjoyed this drama this is what i think:some shows, like this one, dont get rated so highly because they are THAT good, instead it is because they are easy, easy to love.
Nothing polarizing, nothing particularly challenging or complex, they are simple, simplistic. Most people watching them will end up liking it because there’s nothing much that could challenge the viewer otherwise.
This is very enjoyable, very high chemistry, romance. Any other storytelling aspect present is in its infancy here. Thematically its quite shallow.
The saving grace is the romantic dynamic between two stunning actors who give it their all despite everything and are shot beautifully to enhance it all.
There’s nothing wrong with simplicity, it can be quite powerful, but dont let the rating fool you there are many many better cdrama out there with better thematic points and payoff, with better more interesting characters and character dynamics and so on.
I urge you all to find them. Chinese dramas are amazing when you find those nuggets.
This show, its at its best in the first half, then it banks on that to hold it till the end.
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Best Historian Cdrama in all my 8 years of watching
I cannot express the happiness and the heartbreak this show has caused me. I've never loved a female and male lead as much as I've loved them. Somehow, I was able to love even the villains of the show and still cry at the losses. Not only are the actors sooo beautiful and attractive, to the point where my motivation to keep watching was to see the female lead in pigtails again, but it's also so amazing seeing such a strong female and male lead fight alongside each other, and how they both were so protective of each other. The side characters did not disappoint, and there was such a sense of unity that made me sob sometimes. I watched the 40 episodes in a week, and it would have been shorter if not for my finals, but this drama displayed so many traits that you can tick. The character development, even when both characters were perfect enough, really was the cherry on the cake, and it was so fulfilling seeing other romances play out; the plot twists, really, were insane sometimes. I NEVER give reviews, but honestly, this takes the cake in making me cry, laugh, and all the above. Really, I think you should watch even though you might not watch dynasty dramas; without spoiling, this is really worth it.Was this review helpful to you?
Already the best of 2026
I know, I know... we're still in early 2026 but nothing (and I mean NOTHING) can compare to this beauty of a drama.I was among the skeptical at first. I'm not a big fan of Zhang Ling He's acting skills so I held off on this drama but the ype grew so big it took over my TikTok fyp and I had to take a look for myself.
I'm glad I did.
I binged watched the first 28 episodes within the span of three days, sat on the edge of my seat and found myself finding reason to relate to almost every character. I cried my eyes out for characters that were inherently bad, rooted for characters who searched for redemption, sat on the edge of my seat for the main characters and fell head over heels in love with one of the villains.
The cast for this drama is so damn good and Zhang Ling He proved me so wrong in thinking he couldn't act all that well. The way he portrays his character in this show is magnificent and I take back every bad word I have ever said about him. It was my first drama starring Tian Xi Wei and I can't wait to see more of her in cdrama. The same goes for Deng Kai and Lin Mu Ran and I could keep that list going.
This show deserves the hype because it's everything I would wish for in a drama and more. It gave me angst, drama, a romance to die for, a beautiful portrayal of a toxic romance, badass female characters, child actors who can actually act well and so much more.
Would I recommend? Hell yes! The cast is casting. The costumes are costuming. The OST is freaking amazing. It got me goosebumps whenever it started playing.
So if you're looking for a show that will pull you in from start to finish, you should definitely watch this. If not? Then watch it anyway. It's worth it. Trust me.
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The characters, relationship dynamics and cinematography made up for a poorly executed plot.
This show proves that beautiful leads, engaging relationship dynamics and sweeping cinematography can save a decent but poorly executed plot. It really highlights how productions sacrifice certain aspects of a drama and elevate others to suit their target audience - but doesn’t the idol drama fan also value a tight and well executed plot? The MDL ratings show us that maybe not so much!Now I am well aware of my western bias, so I am willing to admit that my confusion about the history and politics of this realm may not have been as much of an issue for Chinese viewers. Despite all of that, I still thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful spectacle of the leads and humble side characters. I was willing to overlook the ridiculous beauty of the main leads, the unrealistic depictions of battle, the lack of sun damage on faces that spend most of their time outside, the perfectly manicured hands of seasoned soldiers and butchers and much more - because it was all so beautiful and emotionally compelling by design. I cried, I laughed, I swooned - all while not understanding (and ultimately not really caring about) many aspects of the main plot.
This was an enjoyable watch - I was swept up in the hype and totally satisfied by the escapism it provided. Is it a rewatch? Not in its entirety, but I will probably watch specific scenes and edits. Will I seek out other shows starring the leads? Maybe not their back catalogue but definitely their future projects. Will I recommend it to others? Maybe just to asian drama fans and carefully chosen others. Is it one of my favourite dramas of all time? Not really, but maybe top 20!
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Did not Disappoint!! A Definite Master Piece!!
Thank God!!! The Drama is too Good and It is beyond the Expectations. I loved Every single Scene and There are no Unnecessary gaps of relationship between Main Leads and Every Single Character of the Drama is Good , May it be Good or Bad . Every Single Actor is good , Many actors had a short role but I liked them too . The Ending Extra scene is very cute and The Main CP they have my Heart and Their Pair is Awesome and Chemi is also too good . If there is Chance would like to see them in another drama , It is also good if it modern drama.A must watch drama and I will rewatch it again
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What are we pursuing?
It’s strange, but lately, it feels like Zhang Linghe is in every drama I watch.For me, his best role was in *Story of Kunning Palace*. In that series, he played a more mature character—one who truly demonstrated the emotional depth and expression of an adult. I still remember that cave scene to this day.
That said—
The first half of *this* series seemed to have a little bit of everything; at the time, I really hoped the female lead would evolve into a supportive and capable partner. However, once she arrived at the military camp, she started doing things that were... well, hard to make sense of. Her character development went backwards, even making decisions for other people that she had no right to be making.
I understand that the Marquis wanted a wife who wasn't intimidated by this kind of lifestyle, but she could have easily demonstrated her strength in other ways, rather than turning the plot into a "female general" trope.
Furthermore—it took 26 episodes for him to tell her who he really is. Their relationship lacks the sense of maturity it ought to possess. Ironically, it is the other male lead(Deng Kai)—despite being a quite unhinged and toxic figure—who actually embodies the desire, pain, sorrow, and longing that are characteristic of adult relationships.
I became a little bored with the main couple due to the male lead not really doing much for most of the show despite being a famed general, while female lead becoming too nonsensical. Deng Kai as the villain & the plot with his brother was really the only reason I stuck around for the show.
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Everything a perfect 10 until Episode 30 - Disappointed with the last arc
I've updated my rating for this drama from a 10 to an 8.5. I think the development in the beginning is amazing. Lots of details and storytelling is perfect. The second arc about the FL's development is also very good. However, after episode 30, the structure of the drama is not as good as the book. And the editing has issues. I am disappointed at the end.I guess the problem is mystery is too convoluted to begin with. And then there's hints all along that the Prime Minister was not what he seems. And suddenly, the story delivered a surprised villain at the end. The storytelling of the drama is not perfect towards the end and loses momentum after 30. The editing was a sloppy too.
UPDATE after ep 30
I am disappointed with adaptation of the book as it loses focus and tension towards the end, starting at 30. There were some jokes that seemed random. And the fact that there's no tension between the leads on the revenge motif. Anyways they have to make extra money and fill it up to ep 40. But I wish they would focus on the events of 17 years ago to keep up the suspense. I don't need to see so many jokes. There was a meeting between Wei Yan and ML as soon as he gets to the city.
There are 3 themes that run through out most genre of this type:
1) A struggle between love and hatred and LOVE wins.
2) Loyalty to one's country
3) Mysteries that happened before the main characters were born
#1 is missing to give way to love and humor in this drama!
Also, a few scenes just happened randomly - like a problem with editing.
EP36: I think it doesn't make sense that Wei Yan can impose traditional family rule on XZ because his last name is Xie, not Wei! In the book, XZ asked for the punishment from the Xie family to be with FL!
This drama has everything going for it: chemistry, storytelling, humor, and mystery. Let’s begin with the mystery, as the other elements are more self-evident. The plot is rooted deeply in the past, with secrets hidden from both the audience and the characters themselves.
Character Backgrounds
The Male Lead (ML): Xie Zheng
Names: Xie Zheng (Formal), Marquis Wu’an (Title), Yan Zheng (Alias used while in hiding), “Xie Jiu Heng” (Name given by his teacher).
Family: His father, Xie Linshan, married the sister of Prime Minister Wei Yan.
The Mystery: After his father’s death, Xie Zheng was raised by his maternal uncle, Wei Yan. Curiously, Wei Yan treats Xie Zheng better than his own son, even convincing the renowned Grand Tutor Tao to take him on as a student.
The Female Lead (FL): Fan Changyu
Family: Her father is Wei Qilin (formerly a servant of Wei Yan). He married General Meng Shuyuan’s daughter and took the surname Meng. Later, while in hiding, he changed his name to Fan Erniu.
Other Characters:
Meng Family
FL's grandfather and Mother
Zhu Youchang (General Zhu - served under Meng Shuyuan) was imprisoned by Wei Yan for seventeen years
According to him: Wei Yan sent FL's father Wei Qilin with a Tiger Tally and a letter telling the Meng General to abandon the transfer of grains to ML's father. They should rescue the 16th prince instead.
Tiger Tally of Xunchang to no avail, it turns out Zhu Youchang had sewn it into his severed leg - when QM's shadow men came, he gave it to them hoping to clear the Meng General's name.
Wei Family
Wei Yan - Prime Minister supposedly conspired to kill the ML's father.
Qi Min/Sui Yuanhuai : The imperial grandson. As a child, he stood in for the eldest son of Prince Changxin; during this time, half of his face was severely burned, leaving him with chronic illnesses.
This chapter discusses QM's history and how he became Sui Yuanqing's brother:
https://www.readthedrama.com/novels/chasing-jade-zhu-yu/chapters/66
Why he dislike his son - Yu Bao'er? because YB can take his throne before he can succeed in overthrowing the current king.
Sui Yuanqing: The second son of Prince Changxin and the heir apparent. If Prince Changxin takes the throne, Sui Yuanqing will inherit it. Qi Min intends to use Xie Zheng to eliminate Sui Yuanqing.
The Li Family Alliance: When Prince Changxin’s path to the throne falters, Qi Min begins collaborating with the Li family to secure his own chance at power.
The Li Family:
Second Male Lead (SML): Li Huaian / Wen Kan.
Grandfather: Grand Tutor Li, a powerful court official. He married his daughter to the Emperor, but she remains a childless Empress because the Emperor seeks to balance power between the Li and Wei families. He sends his grandson, Li Huaian, to investigate the events of 17 years ago.
The Events of 17 Years Ago
Meng Shuyuan, a loyal general under Xie Linshan, disregarded military orders to rescue 100,000 besieged civilians while transporting provisions. This delay led to the deaths of the Chengde Crown Prince and Xie Linshan at Jinzhou. Meng supposedly committed suicide to atone.
Wei Yan order Wei Qilin to kill his wife. WQ refused and took his wife into hiding - changing his name to Fan.
That same year, the Eastern Palace caught fire, reportedly killing both the Crown Princess and the imperial grandson. These two events—the defeat at Jinzhou and the palace fire—occurred in quick succession. Anyone with eyes can see they are undoubtedly connected.
The Answer: The Crown Princess set the fire herself to secure a slim chance of survival for the imperial grandson.
THE Mysteries:
1) Why did Meng Shuyuan, who was not known for being reckless or disloyal, disobey a direct order?
2) If Wei Yan was the culprit orchestrating the conspiracy to kill Xie Linshan, why did he allow Meng Shuyuan’s descendants to live?
3) Did Wei Qilin pressure General Meng to delay the shipment?
4) What does the Li family have to do with all of these events?
5) Who wanted to harm the Eastern Palace?
6) What is in the box given to He Jingyuan to give to Wei Yan when Fan Changyu's parents commit suicide?
7) Did Wei Qilin mastered the events that killed Zie Chang's father? This is the question that Changyu needs to answer because if he did, Zie Chang can't be with her!
-- I think this is a predictable scenario and might make the drama feel like it's the same old type of story- star crossed lovers again.
ANSWERS (spoilers ALERT)
1) "Back then, it wasn’t the old general who disregarded military orders and delayed the grain transport. It was the Sixteenth Prince, who was accompanying the army, obsessed with glory. Seeing only a few thousand Northern Turks guarding Luocheng and tens of thousands of civilians trapped inside, he ignored the old general’s orders and insisted on leading a rescue. In the end, the Sixteenth Prince was captured alive. The Northern Turks demanded the old general exchange the army’s grain supplies for the prince’s life—or else they would use the prince’s blood to consecrate their banners!"
2) Together ML figured out that delaying Old General Meng's grain shipment—the true aim of the mastermind was to ensure Jinzhou's fall. Or rather, to ensure the death of the Chengde Crown Prince and 16th prince die so that another prince (19th) could take the throne. They attributed this to Wei Yan.
MYSTERY: However, I think it's not WY because FL's father Wei Qilin is not guilty as she claimed because then her mom would not have lived with him. WQ's letter sent to WY must be this letter!
3) Why does WY raised the ML?
When ML's mother discovered the plot, she committed suicide and made WY promise to raise ML. This way, WY won't kill him because he's under his watchful eye.
He hated his mother for killing herself but when discovered that she died for him, he was remorseful.
My Rating
Storytelling: I think it offers a fresh take. While there have been stories about butcher female leads before, the combination of the characters, the director’s filming, and the actors contributes to the show's popularity. It’s time to take a woman who is a butcher seriously. Her skills are not just there for show; they actually save lives. She is the true lead because the story focuses mainly on her journey to become an equal to the ML.
Humor: I like how the humor comes from irony as well as physical gags. The actors deliver these comedic moments with a nonchalant touch and solid acting skills.
Direction: Sometimes we give all the credit to the actors. However, in this case, the director also contributed significantly to the success of the drama.
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started strong then lost its potential..
this drama in its first 19 - 20 episodes was great on many different level , great script, acting and character building, then when the second arc began when xie zheng returned to the army and linan mascara everything was going downhill real fast , the kept dragging and focusing at something ridiculous 'ML real identity' which could have been revealed to FL early on than 26th ending they kept dragging and forgot that they had a main storyline they had to finish , the palace arc was so rushed ,wei yan supposedly the main villain yet he never got any decent screen time on the other hand qi min who kept planning revenge for so many years was defeated so easily in half of an episode maybe less😕 wondering what was all this building for if we are going to get a rushed ending .this drama kept focus on 2 couples qi min and yu qianqian and our main couple but why did they leave out gongsun yin and princess royal ?
what also annoyed me is the war scenes were extremely rushed, and the very small number of soldiers that appeared despite saying the sui army had 30,000 soldiers obviously that was not the case (may it was a budget issue) but it was really annoying watching soldiers appear and suddenly disappear in the next shot .
when ML knew that changyu was wei qilin's daughter (supposedly the traitor who cause his father's death 17 years ago) of course changyu had nothing to do with it but at least you could have showed us he was reluctant to be with her or at least didn't forget his goal to avenge his father and that he cared it seemed like he only cared about changyu , it was the opposite way around changyu was the one who distanced herself .
last episodes were a bit rushed yet it held some great plots , li huaian coming to his senses and stop helping his grandfather with his plan to put qi min on the throne , grand tutor li already knew that qi min was an unfit and ruthless ruler yet he was doing it for power and that li family becomes stronger than wei family in court .
sui yuan qing's ending was also well deserved (betrayed and alone ) but at least he did a good deed before he died.
what wei yan did 17 years ago they made it seem that it was the emperor's fault but he was not free of guilt as him trying to get rid on FL and her sister afterwards was extreme and unjustified .
wei xuan sacrificing his life to XZ was a bit confusing , he said it was because he saved his mother but throughout the whole drama we saw wei xuan complaining to wei yan that he prefered XZ over him and was clearly jealous and about it , I thought he hated him so that scene was out of nowhere for me.
this drama has the most ridiculously funny emperor 😂 laughed at almost all his scenes , not your typical cdrama emperor , yet his ending was sad .
song yan's discovery of ML 's identity and that FL became a general was quite funny and his dismissal of his position was well deserved after what he did to FL .
after all what has been said , this was a great drama that lost potential midway .
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