
This review may contain spoilers
A Love Forged On The Edge Of Hatred, Tempered By Silence And Pain
"Feud", also known as "Lin Jiang Xian" (Lament of the River Immortal), presents itself as a xianxia drama rooted in misunderstanding, but beneath its surface lies a haunting, layered tale of how grief can blur the line between love and hatred.At the heart of the story is the tragic bond between Hua Ruyue and Bai Jiusi: two souls once intertwined by fate, only to be torn apart by pain and betrayal. Their relationship, rich with longing and unresolved devotion, forms the emotional backbone of the drama. Their journey was never about romance, but of healing — a reflection of how love, when wounded deeply, can either wither into ruin or be transformed into redemption.
STORYLINE ₊ ⊹❀
The drama opens with a deceptively lighthearted tone, focusing on the fairytale-like romance between Li Qingyue and Bai Jiusi. Their sweet, almost innocent dynamic hints at a familiar setup. At first glance, it feels like a typical love story within a xianxia setting, and yet, something about it feels quietly off. There were no backstories offered, no clear exposition given, especially regarding the main leads. This deliberate withholding of context created a sense of mystery which piqued at my interest. I thought this choice of narrative is one of the drama's strength because as the story progresses, it unravels into something far more tragic and complex.
After the illusion of simplicity fades with the revelation of Li Qingyue's true identity as Hua Ruyue, the tone of the drama takes a dramatic and somber turn. Her reemergence is not merely just a shocking twist, but a pivotal moment that reframes everything that came before. What once appeared to be the beginning of their love is actually just a continuation of a deeply fractured bond. For me, this arc marks the start of their true story, it is what made the drama more emotionally engaging and narratively unique. Each revelation drew me deeper into their twisted entanglement.
The transition from the first half to the second half of the story was seamless —it felt organic rather than jarring. The pacing struck the right balance, and the nonlinear structure of storytelling, through the use of flashbacks, added richness and layers to the characters and their relationship. What stood out most during this part was how the drama avoided a simplistic narrative of right and wrong. Instead, it carved out a space for both Hua Ruyue and Bia Jiusi to exist as flawed, grieving individuals — not heroes or villains, but as two souls shaped by their heartbreak and longing. The moral ambiguity embedded in their contrasting ideologies became the lens through which their pain and conflict were explored. I appreciated how the drama didn't ask to choose sides, it rather asked to understand.
Furthermore, the side characters weren't merely added as background figures, each of them carried enough weight and nuance to feel real rather than one-dimensional. Fan Linger wasn't confined to the typical trope of an annoying second female lead ; her arc became one of self-love and growth. The Jingyuan Sect deviated from the usual portrayal of a hypocritical or power-hungry factions in xianxia dramas. Even Xiao Jingshan, who walked the darker path wasn't portrayed as inherently evil but as someone affected by the weight of his pain. While the romance wasn't the central focus of the drama, the chemistry between the main leads was palpable, and the few moments of affection and tenderness they shared felt both authentic and heart fluttering.
The drama's conclusion wasn't a conventional happy ending, but one far more meaningful and symbolic. It didn't erase the suffering and tragedy Bai Jiusi and Hua Ruyue endured, instead it illuminated their long emotional journey towards healing. It was deeply moving to witness each character learn to let go of their hatred, resentment, attachments, and obsession. In the end, it wasn't about neat resolutions, but about choosing peace after pain, and choosing love even in the aftermath of loss.
The CGI in the drama wasn't anything groundbreaking, it was more in line with what you'd expect from older xianxia productions but it did serve its purpose. The cinematography, on the other hand, was visually pleasing and managed to capture the tone of the story well. As for the costume designs, what particularly stood out for me was for the main leads. I especially adored the intricate details in Hua Ruyue's hair pieces, and the soft, elegant color tones of Bai Jiusi's hanfu which suited him perfectly. I only found one aspect lacking, it was the sound effects. At times, they were overpowering the dialogue in certain scenes. Also, the comedic sound cues felt misplaced and distracting, like the glass shattering sounds.
CHARACTERS & ACTING ₊ ⊹❀
Bai Lu as Hua Ruyue | Li Qingyue
Hua Ru Yue is the most compassionate immortal god to exist. From the moment she first opened her eyes to the world, her heart was already soft. Despite her divine status, she never turned a blind eye to mortals suffering. She saw their pain, recognized their worth, and treated them not as lesser beings, but as lives equally deserving of dignity and care. Beneath her gentle spirit, lies an unshakable will. Hua Ruyue doesn't confine herself to the rigid laws of heaven, nor does she flinch at the face of fate. She is strong minded and unyielding, she follows her own truth even when the cost is great.
Meeting Meng Chi, a mortal whom she saved, marked the beginning of Hua Ruyue’s fated entanglement with cause and effect. His life was like a mirror — one that reflected the eternal divide between immortals and mortals. Birth, aging, sickness, death… the joys and sorrows of mortal life pass like fleeting shadows in the eyes of gods. But in an instant, Hua Ruyue came to understand the weight of those fleeting moments. She saw how "love" — that fragile, flickering flame, is what mortals cling to even when knowing they are destined to fade. And in that, she realized how divine power means nothing if it’s only used to look down with pity. Its true meaning lies in the courage to share in the pain of all living beings.
Though Meng Chi's life was brief, his impact on Hua Ruyue was profound. She came to see that if immortals are eternal but unfeeling, then they are no different from stone. Mortals may be fragile, but their suffering, born of love and foolish hope, weighs heavier than the sky. Hua Ruyue’s sword did not only slay the drought dragon — it shattered the cold, unyielding rules of the heavenly realm. For only by loving the fleeting can one become unafraid of the impermanence of life.
But even the kindest hearts can break. Hua Ruyue’s descent into hatred was never born of malice, but from heartbreak. A grief so vast, it devoured her light and twisted her love into vengeance. Losing her child, Shi An, was a wound deeper than any suffering she endured afterward. Her hatred towards Bai Jiusi blinded her to the truth, but before she was an immortal god Siling, she was a grieving mother. Hua Ruyue was trapped between the thin line of love and hatred, and though her anger burned fiercely, it was clear she still only loved Bai Jiusi. Each time she tried to kill him, she wasn't afraid to die along with him, because deep down, that love never left. And if proof was ever needed, it lies in Li Qingyue. Although she wasn't real, she was still Hua Ruyue, a part of her untouched by time, pain, and betrayal. How can someone who has endured so much still carry a version of herself so loving, so pure, so tender? That alone speaks of a heart that never fully closed — of a love that, no matter how scarred, still quietly endured.
Hua Ruyue was able to let go of her hatred through the quiet acceptance. It was the time artifact which Xiao Jingshan gave her that allowed her this final journey. She wasn't returning to the past to alter the future or reverse her pain. Instead, she was rewriting it as an act of healing, a way of finding peace within herself. This time, she chose to reunite with Bai Jiusi once more, not as someone who is broken by grief, but as someone who had lived through it, carried its weight, and slowly learned to lay it down. She approached him no longer as a mother ravaged by loss, but as Hua Ruyue, a woman who had loved deeply, suffered greatly, and finally made peace with both.
Hua Ruyue is now undoubtedly one of my most favorite character that Bai Lu had portrayed. She didn't disappoint. She delivered a performance that was both powerful and deeply moving. I have always admired her talent, especially in angsty and emotionally charged scenes, yet she still managed to surprise me with her stellar performance here, particularly during the revelation of Hua Ruyue's suffering in the mortal realm. Those scenes were gut-wrenching, it reminded me of the same emotional devastation I felt when watching her in One and Only. This truly stands out as one of her finest performances to have ever come around. Although, it is a pity that she didn't dub the character herself, her raw acting carried every scene with grace and intensity.
Zeng Shunxi as Bai Jiusi
Bai Jiusi is the opposite of Hua Ruyue. He is bound by the laws of heaven and carried the immense burden of guarding the infinite steel. He had a great sense of responsibility and never wavered from his duty, he was someone more restrained. Unlike Hua Ruyue, he doesn't resist the wheel of fate but accepts it. This wasn’t because he lacked the courage to fight, but because he believes in a natural cycle governed by karma and heaven's order. But that acceptance came at a cost.
Beneath his composed exterior lies a soul full of ache. He loved Hua Ruyue deeply, yet he never once voiced it aloud. Instead, his love was reflected in the way he remained steady, like still water, quietly enduring the storm of her resentment. Every part of him belonged to her. That love never wavered— not even when he lost his memories, not even when his soul was shattered. Even his sword remembered only the love he bore for Hua Ruyue.
Bai Jiusi's tragedy is that of a man who loved too deeply but spoke too little. He often chose restraint over expression as a way to protect others. But in doing so, he unknowingly built a wall between himself and Hua Ruyue. His passivity, though rooted in care, became the very force that allowed distance and misunderstanding to take root. He was not without flaws. Every time he withheld his truth, every time he let the moment pass without reaching for her, the space between them grew. His understanding became a substitute for confrontation, and in trying not to hurt her, he ended up letting her hurt alone. The weight of things unsaid, pain endured quietly and love never spoken became the very ache that defined their bond. In the end, his greatest flaw wasn’t a lack of love, but the silence that cloaked it.
After he learned the truth of Hua Ruyue's suffering and his unintentional role in Shi An's death, he became consumed by overwhelming guilt. That realization shattered what little composure he had left, however, he didn't try to justify himself. His redemption came in the form of self-erasure — allowing Hua Ruyue to strike him down if it could ease even a fraction of her grief. And even in death or near-death, his love remained resolute, never tainted by bitterness or resentment. He let himself become the villain in her story because he believed her pain mattered more than clearing his name.
Yet, his ultimate redemption was not in dying, but in surviving long enough to be there when Hua Ruyue finally let go of her hatred. He was still there, quietly enduring, when she returned from the past having found her peace. And that quiet reunion, free of drama or grand declarations, was his final offering. His love was the kind that asked for nothing in return, a love that didn't seek to be seen, but only to remain.
Zeng Shunxi's performance is remarkable considering this is his first time starring in a xianxia genre drama. His portrayal of Bai Jiusi's inner turmoil and quiet devotion with subtlety spoke volumes of his emotions even in silence. The expression in his eyes which often held more sorrow than words could express added depth to his character. He absolutely also gave an impactful and memorable performance with his heavier scenes. I am looking forward to see him act in this genre again.
OSTs ₊ ⊹❀
The drama didn't have any powerhouse OSTs and the rest of the songs used were not that memorable. The only two songs which I really ended up loving were the ones sang by Bai Lu and Joseph, both these songs had lyrics that matched with the story and characters too.
OVERALL IMPRESSION ₊ ⊹❀
Feud is a compelling tale that goes beyond romance and traditional xianxia. It explores the fragility of love, the devastation of grief, and the moral ambiguity of choice. With its rich character depth, emotional storytelling, and quiet reflections on healing and forgiveness, it's a drama that lingers, not because of how dramatic it is, but because of how deeply it makes you feel. This drama was worth every emotion it pulled from me. I genuinely hope to see Bai Lu and Zeng Shunxi reunite in another project, as their chemistry and performances left a lasting impression.
FAVE SCENES ₊ ⊹❀
- Li Qingyue proposal to Bai Jiusi
- Fan Linger using her shadow to kill Li Qingyue
- Revelation of Li Qingyue being Hua Ruyue
- Sweet moments of Bai Jiusi and Hua Ruyue during the first time they descended to the mortal realm
- Hua Ruyue seeing Meng Chi's painting of her after he passed away
- Hua Ruyue walking to awaken Bai Jiusi who was frozen
- Bai Jiusi learning how to coax his wife from his friends
- Bai Jiusi's amnesia and search of his wife
- Hua Ruyue and her masters late night drinking talks
- Hua Ruyue time with Shi An
- Bai Jiusi soul guiding Hua Ruyue during the final fight
˖ . ݁❀𝜗𝜚❀. ݁₊
"In the long endless night, only the sun brings light. The warmth of the sun is like hope at the end of darkness. And that radiant warmth is what the color gold is like" — Hua Ruyue
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FEUD is a BEAUTIFUL surprise
Didn’t expect to love this drama this much, it pulled me in so fast. The story is so EMOTIONAL and well-paced. I didn’t feel bored at all, and every episode just made me want to keep going.The story had a nice balance of romance, fantasy, and emotion. What stood out the most for me was Bai Lu as Hua Ruyue, she was amazing. She played her role with so much warmth and strength. Watching her as a mother was so touching, she really made me feel everything. Her scenes with Shi An were so full of love and pain at the same time.
Also, Bai Jiusi during the amnesia part was just too cute. That whole arc was sweet and funny, and it gave a nice break from the heavier moments. Zeng Shunxi really nailed the charm and innocence there. His acting as Bai Jiusi was so natural and he also nailed the emotional scenes.
The CHEMISTRY between Hua Ruyue and Bai Jiusi is just something else. Every time Bai Lu and Zeng Shunxi were on screen together, it felt natural and full of emotion. I felt every glance, every moment. You could really feel the bond between their characters.
Also gotta say,I loved their FEUD promotions! Zeng Shunxi really matched Bai Lu’s vibe and energy. The way they played off each other in interviews and behind-the-scenes clips made me love them even more. They promoted the drama so well.
Honestly, this drama surprised me. The ACTING is powerful, and the visuals are GORGEOUS. The OST fits the mood perfectly. Even the side characters and their stories were meaningful and emotional. Nothing felt wasted.
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This review may contain spoilers
FEUD : A BOND THAT TRANSCENDS TIME, KARMA, AND PAIN
" Lament of the River Immortal "It refers to deep regret or longing, often tied to love and sacrifice; the passage of time, boundary between realms, spiritual journey; and beings with the power of eternity but burdened by endless emotion. "Feud"is the second name, this is a Xianxia drama that stands out because of its unique elements, plot twists and a well paced story that blends well with comedy and angst at the right time. This drama is centered on revenge, but it's revenge built on heartbreak, misunderstanding, and years of silence.Feud is also one of the first Xianxia dramas to feel different from the others, it felt like a slice of life xianxia drama, the pacing matched the story, the ost, the dialogues, and the acting was very good.
STORYLINE 𐙚⋆°。⋆♡
In a captivating fairytale, Li Qing Yue, a powerful immortal blessed by the Four Spirits, and Bai Jiu Si, a revered master of Dacheng, are fatefully drawn to one another. But their bond is tested by a cruel twist of fate, a heartbreaking misunderstanding that leads to conflict, and ultimately, their tragic end.
Yet destiny refuses to let their story end there. Given a second chance, they rise from the ashes of their past to mend what was broken. Standing side by side, the immortal and the master become unlikely champions, uniting their strength to protect the innocent from an impending darkness.
The first part of Feud actually starts off pretty comedic The female lead, Li Qing Yue, is introduced living as a mortal in the Jingyun Sect. She's seen as low-ranking and not really taken seriously, to the point where they make her guard the sect gate with the second male lead. It's during this time outside the sect, while she's out looking for herbs to treat herself, that she runs into the Heavenly Lord and honestly, that’s where the long and emotional journey of Feud really begins.
Because of a mistake, she ends up having to marry the Heavenly Lord. The first half of the drama focuses on their marriage, with the male lead being super cold toward her, constantly trying to make her admit that she’s his past lover, Hua Rue Yue. But it’s clear from early on that something deeper is going on like there's more to the story than what we’re being told. What stood out to me right away was the chemistry between the leads from episode one, the ML always stepped in to protect her whenever she was in danger their bond didn’t feel forced at all; it just clicked.
As the story continued, we were introduced to more side characters who all played their own part in building up the world of the drama. I got completely hooked from the first episode. It didn’t feel like your usual xianxia, it had a different vibe, something new, and I instantly liked both leads. The early episodes were also really good at making everyone, including me, curious about what actually happened in their past. Why did they break up? Did the FL reincarnate? We all had our theories flying around, trying to figure it out, but we had no idea how deep things would really go. The mystery, the pacing, the way the story slowly unfolds it will pull you in without you noticing.
As the drama moves into the second half, everything takes a huge emotional turn and we get hit with not just one, but several major plot twists. One of the most surprising things was how well the female lead, Hua Rue Yue (disguised as Ling Qing Yue), was able to fool everyone in the Heavenly Realm into believing she was just a powerless mortal. Even we, the viewers, were convinced for a while. The second half starts digging much deeper into the pasts of both leads It explores their differences as immortal beings who came to the mortal realm to fulfill a love tribulation. But things didn’t go the way the male lead, BJS, had hoped. Before the flashback kicks in, there’s a huge moment where Ling Qing Yue finally reveals her true identity; she's actually Bai Jiu Si’s real wife, Hua Rue Yue, this caught so many of us off guard. And then another twist followed: she had planned everything that happened in episode one, including staying at the Jingyun Sect. She and the ML ended up fighting in an intense and beautifully shot scene, and that fight took them straight back to the mortal realm.
Now, here’s where it gets even crazier: the mortal realm they both found themselves in after falling down during their fight, was actually an illusion created by HRY herself. Using stories and events from other people's lives, she pieced together a world to show Bai Jiu Si a version of her past, what she had gone through and how she had felt. These illusion scenes were some of the most emotional and reflective moments of the drama even though the world she built was fake, it helped change Bai Jiu Si’s entire view. He started seeing mortals not just as lesser beings, but as people who experience real love, pain, friendship, and sacrifice all things he had never fully understood before. When the story enters its final arc, the emotional weight really starts to hit. Bai Jiu Si falls into a coma, and during that time, he meets the Goddess of Time, she shows him the consequences of his karma and reveals Hua Rue Yue’s past in full. These scenes were honestly heart breaking so deep and painful to watch. They highlighted everything HRY went through as a divine god who carried so much compassion, and how BJS, despite his love for her, made a decision he thought was right, only to realize how deeply it hurt them both.
The villain’s true identity is finally revealed, along with the real cause of all the misunderstandings between BJS and HRY. Since they represent Yin and Yang, their connection was always going to be complicated, but the way it was portrayed made it even more intense and raw toward the end. Something that really stood out for me in " Feud"was how layered and complex the characters were there wasn’t a single character that felt one dimensional, HRY and BJS both had their flaws, but they also had depth, growth, and heartbreak. Another thing I appreciated so much was the loyalty of their disciples. In a lot of xianxia dramas, the disciples usually end up betraying their masters or acting out of jealousy or ambition but here, every disciple remained respectful and deeply devoted. They weren’t hypocrites; they each had their own way of understanding and standing by their master, which gave the story more meaning.
Rather than ending on a cliché happy or tragic note, the finale was more symbolic and meaningful . HRY doesn’t just change her own past she rewrites the past of others too. It’s an alternate ending where her actions don’t erase everything, but reduce the amount of suffering and loss for the people involved which was beautifully written.
In the present timeline, HRY returns to the place where she and BJS first met. When she says, “It’s time to accompany him,” it sounds like she’s ready to die with him, since he’s still missing that moment felt so final and devastating. But then there's another twist of fate, the Goddess of Time steps in and changes their ending, HRY and BJS reunite at the exact place where it all began. This final scene is truly unforgettable cinematic, emotional, and full of closure in the most poetic way possible for me.
CHARACTERS/ ACTING ꫂ❁
Bai Lu as Hua Rue Yue / LingQingYue ᰔᩚ
Bai Lu did such an amazing job bringing HRY to life, from her playful and “mortal” side as Ling Qing Yue to the deeply emotional and broken parts of Hua Rue Yue, she captured every layer so well. I loved how powerful HRY was not witty for show, but genuinely smart and dedicated to helping the mortal realm,her choices weren’t always understood by those around her, and that’s what made her character so interesting. As a Heavenly Goddess, she didn’t act self-righteous or look down on mortals. Instead, she chose to understand both realms, which made her stand out.
HRY is one of the most complex and emotionally layered female leads I’ve seen in a xianxia drama. At first, she appears lighthearted and even a little silly, especially while pretending to be a mortal at Jingyun Sect. But underneath that playful surface is someone deeply burdened by love, betrayal, and compassion. What made her stand out was how she never stopped loving BJS, even when she was angry or heartbroken. Bai Lu nailed this role, especially through her subtle expressions and the way she balanced the emotional, serious, and even the lighter, cute moments of the drama.
Joseph Zeng as Bai Jiu Si ♡ˎˊ˗
Joseph Zeng as BJS was honestly the perfect casting choice. At first, BJS comes across like your typical cold male lead, but as the story unfolds, you realize his silence isn’t emptiness; it comes from years of buried emotions, guilt, and love. He followed the Heavenly way, and his beliefs made him view humans differently. In his eyes, he was doing the right thing. But after meeting HRY again and experiencing the mortal illusion she created, he started to understand that living in the mortal realm isn’t about status or wealth; there's still pain, sacrifice, and hardship no matter who you are.
Joseph truly brought BJS to life, showing every emotion with so much restraint and control, his love for HRY never changed across timelines, and that steady love is what eventually softened her heart, even through all her anger and hurt. Their reunion felt real and ended exactly how it was meant to. Also, I have to say Joseph looked genuinely cute in the scenes where BJS lost his memories. That softer version of him was such a nice contrast to the serious and composed version we saw before,he’s probably the first xianxia male lead I’ve seen who pulled off that innocent, clueless look without it being awkward or cringey.
OST/ CINEMATOGRAPHY ˚.🎀༘⋆
I liked most of the OSTs in the drama because they blended so well with the story. Bai Lu and Joseph’s OST especially stood out; it was used in some of the most emotional and touching scenes, and it really added to the impact. The CGI was pretty good overall, It may not have been the absolute best, but it reminded me of older dramas . I actually really liked the monkey animation in the first episode, it was very cute. The cinematography was also nicely done,they did a good job capturing the emotions of the leads and highlighting some of the key locations in the drama.
FAV SCENES ִֶָ. ..𓂃 ࣪ ִֶָ🦋་༘࿐
BJS and LQY first meeting in the first episodes
Baby BJS with HRY
The Happy love tribulation of BJS and HRY when they first descended
Strong complex HRY Scenes
BJS healing HRY and helping her in the final battle
The dedication of the disciples in the last Ep
Reunion of the leads
Peak Cinema Ending
OVERALL IMPRESSION⋆ ˚。⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。⋆
In Feud, BJS's love for HRY is complex, unwavering, and ultimately tragic. It’s not the kind of love that fades in the face of rejection or resentment; instead, it persists through centuries of trials, misunderstandings, and emotional distance. He doesn’t stop loving her even when she resents him, and that’s the core of his character: his is more patient with her and choose to love her even when they had their differences
The drama does a good job showing that love without communication can become its own kind of cruelty. BJS loved her deeply, but love alone wasn't enough; it needed action, honesty, and mutual growth. HRY’s heartbreak, their years of separation, and the eventual emotional reckoning both of them had to face.
Feud really left an impact on me. It’s not your typical xianxia with a straightforward love story or constant action. The drama takes its time to explore complex characters, emotional depth, and the consequences of past choices. The romance isn’t fluffy or centered on constant sweet moments; it's painful, layered, and tied to something much bigger than just feelings. That might not appeal to everyone, especially if you’re looking for a lighter story, but for those who stick with it, the message behind their love, sacrifice, and growth is powerful. It’s the kind of drama that left me thinking even after it ended .
I explained this drama just like how i interacted with many people.
MY REDDIT EXPLANATION
https://www.reddit.com/r/CDrama/comments/1lfysec/yu_zhengs_explanation_on_feud_helped_me/
“All of you have taught me a lesson. In this cycle, we’ve made many mistakes and carried too many regrets. But since we’ve been given the chance we can help ourselves in the next cycle- Hua Rue Yue ‧₊˚ ☁️⋅♡🪐༘⋆
" I will always remember my wife "- BJS CORE ❦
Thanks For Reading ₍ᐢ. .ᐢ₎ ₊˚⊹♡ # FEUD 2025 ────୨ৎ──── 🪶📜🌕ִֶָ☾♡
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never corner yourself despite the mistakes and pains you endured in life
it’s a great series, with great message, excellent acting (I would give 1000 point if I could, though some support characters did have few weak moments here n there, ranging from evil dude couldn’t portray his pain of losing his family well enough, or how sometimes SFL has one of those blank dead face when it was meant to be conflicted emotion, but SFL redeemed herself in her arc!)reason why I won’t go too deep into the plot because in a way, it’ll ruin other’s viewing experience. I would say: to best watch this series, don’t read spoiler, don’t coming in with a bag - I’m going to hate this. just take things as it is and you’ll appreciate it a lot better.
the reason why this series is so great (despite the lack of passionate kiss, usually featured in BL’s drama) is because the message it tried to convey. you have the usual misunderstanding leads to problems on a very superficial level. but if you look closely, it’s about how one deal with the injustice of losing one’s child. when you have the authority and power to get that justice, every mother and father will. but beyond that, you see what mirror the real life. most couple don’t tend to survive the lost of their child, they tend to break up due to the pain being too raw. but if you keep loving each other, and don’t give up, you will actually have a fighting chance at savage your relationship, even though it’ll be hard and it’ll be long and painful. the drama also steer away from: because we destined to love each other due to the red thread (a traditional view point in Chinese culture), we should blindly follow that path. it shows various ways of not just loving someone, loving the world, but also about what is right, what is wrong.
most importantly, the drama tries to tell viewers to never put themselves in a corner, just because your life was hard, n your hardship seems to never will end. and that best gift any parents/authority figure can give to their loved one is the freedom to make their own decisions, carving their own path on their own merits. mistakes will be made, but you shouldn’t try to fix the mistake. it’ll never the answer. the right answer is clear all misunderstanding, making an informed decision on their own, be proud of the mistakes and the choices you made!
there are many other messages. but those were the main important one. i deeply appreciate this drama for what it’s trying to portray, totally recommended! happy watching 🥰
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This review may contain spoilers
I think according to this drama is good, I was a little confused with the storyline at first but after watching several episodes again, I just realized that in reality their story has flashbacks, there is a cause and effect between the two of them why they had such a big fight and didn't want to fix it. It turned out that it was all because of a conflict between outsiders who deliberately wanted to take advantage of both of them, I was so sad when Bai Lu acted out the story of a mother who lost her child. it was so very sad for me, then when she received a beating and a sense of injustice from all the residents it was also very painful, I cried when watching this drama. the emotions between Joseph Zeng and Bai Lu when they played this drama seemed very real. that's very good! Was this review helpful to you?
Feud ; LOVE,Hate, and redemption
I am glad that I got past the first few episodes. The drama was well written. This drama will have you in your feelings. It begins with real funny moments( so stupid its funny but you want to know what happens next) that will glue you to the screen. The plots shifts from the introductory episodes to more somber,deep and exciting episodes. I loved all the characters. It was rushed at the end. I watched this drama in 3 days.Was this review helpful to you?
A Quiet, Haunting Tale of Love, Loss and Fate: The Lament of the Immortal River (aka Feud)
Overall Rating: 10/10Genres: Xianxia, Romance, Tragedy, Reincarnation, Mythical
Themes: Second chance, Forbidden love, Restraint, Inner strength, Emotional realism
📝 Story — 10/10
This isn’t a story about spectacle — it’s a story about weight. About what happens when silence replaces love, when loyalty is tested by memory, and when immortality becomes just another form of exile.
The Lament of the Immortal River offers an emotionally grounded narrative that’s more about what isn’t said than what is. The pacing is deliberate, but never dull. It trusts the viewer to pay attention, to feel, to wait.
It’s not just a love story — it’s a tragedy shaped by time, power, and restraint.
🎭 Acting/Cast — 10/10
Bai Lu delivers one of her most restrained and mature performances to date. As Li Qingyue, she fully inhabits a woman marked by grief, dignity, and an undercurrent of unresolved longing. There’s a haunting stillness to her performance — a quiet weight in her every glance and pause. Bai Lu doesn’t rely on outbursts or theatricality; instead, she channels emotion through the subtle shift of her shoulders, the flicker of doubt in her eyes, or the way she breathes through pain. Her emotional control becomes the very language of heartbreak, making her portrayal all the more devastating.
Joseph Zeng (Zeng Shunxi) as Bai Jiusi is the perfect counterpart — calm, emotionally guarded, yet with a softness that leaks through in brief, aching moments. He brings a quiet strength to the role, grounding every scene with an intensity that never tries to compete but rather harmonizes with Bai Lu’s energy. Together, they don’t burn with overt passion — they smolder. Their chemistry is slow, deliberate, and deeply affecting, reflecting a bond that feels ancient, painful, deeply human and weathered by time. It's the kind of connection that speaks louder in silence than words ever could.
Even the supporting cast carries emotional weight, with each character feeling lived-in and necessary. No role is wasted; everyone contributes to the atmosphere of quiet tragedy and resilience. The ensemble performances create a world that feels intimate, wounded, and hauntingly real.
🎵 Music — 9.5/10
The soundtrack is minimalistic and emotionally resonant. No overproduction, no melodrama — just the right chords at the right moments. The opening theme lingers. The instrumentals feel almost ritualistic, like they’re part of the world rather than layered on top of it.
🔁 Rewatch Value — 9.5/10
This is the kind of drama that gets heavier on a second watch. Knowing how it ends only adds meaning to the early choices, glances, and omissions. It’s not for background viewing — it’s something you sit with.
If you’ve ever felt like your story wasn’t allowed to be told — this is for you.
💬 Overall — 10/10
The Lament of the Immortal River doesn’t try to please everyone — and that’s exactly why it’s so powerful. It’s slow, yes. Subtle. Introspective. But it’s also unforgettable. For viewers tired of overly explained plots and hackneyed clichés, this is a breath of still, mournful air.
A drama made not to impress, but to endure. And it will.
If you've ever loved someone in silence, lived in someone's shadow, or carried a grief that no one recognized, this drama will resonate. It doesn’t shout to be seen. It whispers to be understood.
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Bai Lu as Si Lang was phenomenal—she completely embodied the role with such maturity and divine presence that I forgot she was acting. The way she manipulated situations early on without us realizing her full motives was brilliantly done. You believe her pain, her anger, her love. Joseph Zeng as Bai Jusi was just as powerful. He wasn’t a typical male lead who blindly follows love—he had his own beliefs, his own moral compass. That tension between them made their relationship feel so real, almost like a married couple going through deep conflict, not just fantasy lovers.
What I loved most was how they didn’t idealize love. They were strong, flawed, and often at odds, but the connection between them always felt undeniable. The show doesn't just rely on rebirth and fate—it dives into choices, consequences, and how love can be twisted by pain and time.
Even the side characters—especially the mortal ones—added warmth and meaning rather than distracting from the leads. The storytelling may seem complex at first, but if you pay attention, it all fits beautifully. It’s not messy—it’s layered, smart, and rewarding.
Feud isn't your typical Xianxia. It’s deeper, darker, and more human. One of the best I’ve watched.
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I Love FEUD, it's a beautiful show with pretty CGI
What WorksStrong lead appeal: Bai Lu and Zeng’s fanbases helped vault the show's early popularity—Feud hit nearly 10,000 heat on iQiyi within days
Momentum: Its approach—jumping into major events —appeals to viewers tired of lengthy setups
Marketing buzz: An inventive “cloud private screening” engaged 50,000+ users, fueling early interest
Feud If you're drawn to fantasy dramas with star power and don’t mind visual rough edges or recycled tropes, it can be an entertaining ride.
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This review may contain spoilers
Unexpected, sad, emotional and beautiful
What a drama. At first I thought it was going to be like any other drama in ancient China with gods, demons and mortals. But here I was proven wrong with a really cool story. How much evil can happen to a human being or a divine person, please, and all because someone was scheming in the background.I still have three episodes to go but I will definitely watch the drama again. I was simply captivated by the story, the characters and the scenery. And a big round of applause for the two main actors who really did a wonderful and emotional job.
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This review may contain spoilers
Underrated. Misjudged. Emotionally Wrecking. A Stunning Journey from Start to Finish. ?
I just finished Lament of the River Immortal (临江仙), and honestly? I don’t even know how to recover. This drama came in looking like a simple xianxia — and left like a quiet emotional bomb. I went in expecting fluff and pretty aesthetics, and came out with heartbreak, plot twists, healing, and characters I still can’t get out of my head.What Makes This Drama Special:
1. The Story – Not Your Typical "Immortal Love" Rehash
This isn't just about immortals falling in love and fighting fate. It's about two people — lovers — who descend into the mortal realm for a love trial, only to end up torn apart by misunderstandings, manipulated by those around them, and pulled into a brutal cycle of mistrust and revenge.
And yet, the way the story rebuilds their relationship from enemies back to lovers again is so satisfying. Nothing feels rushed. Every misstep has weight. Every reconciliation has emotional payoff. It’s slow-burn, yes — but it burns right.
2. The Characters – Complex, Flawed, Human (Even When Immortal)
The main leads aren’t perfect. They make mistakes. They doubt each other. But they also learn. And grow. And communicate. Watching the female lead’s emotional collapse, her thirst for revenge, and eventual realization of the truth — it hurt. And watching the male lead — even through memory loss — still gravitate back to her? That was beautiful.
His amnesia phase? Surprisingly wholesome and heartwarming. I expected it to drag — but it brought so much softness and balance after all the heartbreak.
3. The Acting – 10/10, No Skips
Let’s talk about the leads. Bailu and Joseph delivered. There were entire scenes where no words were needed — just the micro-expressions, the emotion in their eyes. Their chemistry was insane. Whether they were in love, at odds, or silently aching — you felt it.
Even the supporting cast did great, and yes, the villain arc actually had depth. It wasn’t just evil-for-evil’s-sake — everything had a backstory, a motive.
4. The OST – Goosebumps. Tears. Saved to Playlist.
Giving this soundtrack a 1.0 rating should be a punishable offense tbh. The OST is hauntingly beautiful, and fits every major scene like a glove. I’ve already seen it blowing up on Xiaohongshu and being covered by vocalists — and for good reason. It elevates the emotional beats of the story in a massive way.
5. The Ending – You Will Cry, But You’ll Also Smile.
For a show that dragged me through emotional glass, I was so scared the ending would leave me empty. But it didn’t. The ending is hopeful, healing, and full-circle. It doesn’t erase the pain — it respects it. And that’s why it lands so well.
To the Ones Who Dropped It at Episode 4:
Look, I get it — not every show is for everyone. That’s the beauty of personal taste. But if you’re going to rate an entire drama as a 1.0 — based on four episodes — and call it “childish,” “absurd,” or “a waste of talent”? That’s not critique. That’s impatience trying to wear a critic’s hat.
Slow burns exist for a reason. They build. They layer. Feud doesn’t give you all the answers in the first act — because it’s not supposed to. The pain, the confusion, the “Why is he doing this?” — it’s all intentional. And trust me, once the truths start unraveling, everything hits differently.
You’re allowed to dislike a show. That’s valid.
But to drag down the cast, the music, the entire production just because you didn’t wait for the payoff? That’s not being objective — that’s throwing a tantrum with a keyboard.
Final Thoughts:
This drama was never meant to be “easy.”
It’s meant to be earned. And once it is? It’s unforgettable.
For those who love:
Emotional storylines with real consequences
Character-driven romance with heavy angst
Plot twists, painful reveals, and eventual healing
Beautiful OSTs that make you cry on cue
Actual growth and communication between leads
This is your drama. And it’s worth every minute.
Feud is not perfect, but it’s powerful.
And if you give it the time it deserves — it’ll stay with you long after the screen fades to black. 🫶
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Piecing together the puzzle
This drama utilizes non-linear storytelling, which means the audience isn’t meant to grasp every detail immediately. Certain revelations only make sense as the narrative unfolds. For example, after watching episodes 23,I felt compelled to revisit earlier scenes and realized just how remarkably kind she was much more so than I would have been in her place. I genuinely admire this style of storytelling; it’s intellectually stimulating and keeps the viewers engaged as they piece together the story.They ML and FL are not the only one having Feud even the viewers have Feud.If you don’t have patience and don’t like using your cognitive skills, don’t start this drama.You might find yourself annoyed, maybe by the editing and by the dubbing especially if you’re used to the FL’s original voice. First of all, it was the producer’s decision to do it this way. But overall, you’ll get used to it after a few episodes. The actors all did a great job. In the end, just enjoy the drama!🔥👌🏾🤝🏽Feud is a Banger✅️
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