Fen Fang Xi Shi (2025)

Keeping it in the family

‒Review‒

Hilarious Family 2 is an under-the-radar gem that combines sitcom with a long plot arc. The show returns much of the same cast from the Hilarious Family 1, and fits them in a fresh story with fresh characters. While the first season focused on the matrimonies of four daughters in ancient times, this edition mostly revolves around the complications of an in-fighting business family. I dropped Season 1 half way, but enjoyed this season much more. The production and humor felt much sharper and more polished. And the shenanigans and well-placed references to modern vicissitudes brought many side-splitting laughs. For those who enjoyed the first season, don't be puzzled by the new story, but do give this a chance. I can recall many hilarious arcs such as Ai Sixi the innkeeper, her initial shenanigans as the fake bride in the Jin manor, the ladies' academy, the prison arc, and Great Aunt's love arc. The concentration of laughs dilutes somewhat toward the later part of the show, though other viewers might appreciate the much longer plot narrative. My hope is that our hilarious family of actors continues with more sequels in the future.

Even though this is clearly a lower budget drama like Season 1, I really enjoyed many of the acting performances. The spunky character suits Jackie Li much better than the timid character in Season 1. Ren Hao and Chang Long were also terrific. For the lesser known actors, Fan Shuaiqi, who played Nangong in Guardians of Dafeng shows off her comedic chops. I would not be surprised if she becomes much higher profile as she's got the looks, decent acting chops, and an eye for interesting projects.

‒Meta Commentary‒

Given the natural comparison with American tv, I've long held the view that CDrama could benefit from more pure comedies (the standard romcom doesn't count) for content and business reasons. The more episodic format and makes it easier for writing, production, and acting while serving as the training ground for developing a bigger group of writers and actors. More over, it's a way to diversify from the visual fascism of idol dramas where visual requirements locks out many actors. I'd much prefer solid actors like Jackie Li, Chang Long, and older actors get a chance to dazzle with their comedic and dramatic chops than being permanently typecast as support characters. The industry seems to be moving in this direction as more comedies are made. While this show flew under-the-radar without much promotion, I hope the momentum continues to build towards a more diversified and hilarious future.

--Category Ratings--

- Overall - 7.5 -> 8.0 MDL
- Plot - 7
- Theme / Concept / Impact - 7.5
- Acting - 8
- Visuals - 8
- Audio / Music - 7.5
- Rewatch - 7
- Cultural/Topical Accessibility - 7.5
- Subtitle quality - 8

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