This review may contain spoilers
A Must Watch of 2025! Checks off everything I would want in a modern C-drama
I started Love's Ambition with not much expectations, the more I continued watching it the more love I have for this drama. Every single arc, plot, story, character, styling, detail, and even the songs was done with PURPOSE.It seems the drama split into different arcs:
First arc focuses on Xu Yan, our main female lead played by Zhao Lu Si. She is a complicated female character, I think many people would definitely misunderstand her behavior. We need to keep in mind that in her perspective, she grew up without feeling geniune love and care from her own parents. She is definitely not a gold digger, she's more of a ....love digger. LOL Jokes aside, she yearns for love, and she thought she found that in her spouse. They seemed perfect for each other in the beginning, but of course it's all a ruse. Needless to say, it took heartbreak just to repair the relationship the two leads had. Xu Yan does not give in that easily, she has proven over and over that she can move on with own capabilities. I really enjoyed watching a strong, independent woman create a path for themselves especially after a marriage. Xu Yan taught me that if one door closes, another will always open. You just need to think outside of the box. It's also okay to not forgive your parents, it's okay to go no-contact with people who did you wrong, etc. Zhao Lu Si did a phenomenal job portraying Xu Yan, she really embodies her character quite well.
The second arc focused on Shen Hao Ming (William Chan), Hao Ming felt like a background character in the first 10 episodes or so. As I said in the comments, he felt like an accessory to Xu Yan. When the truth came, his motives were also exposed. Long story short, he also put on a play for Xu Yan. But there's a saying "Distance makes the heart grow fonder." and that is exactly what happened with Shen Hao Ming. It took him a very long, long time to figure out where his heart lies. Initially he didn't realize he was in love with his "ex-wife", and he used a ton of excuses to try and keep her by his side. It was disgusting; I absolutely hated whenever he uses money to bribe people especially Xu Yan. Xu Yan has told him multiple times she don't need his money, she doesn't care - all she cared about was him. He has said multiple times that it was his arrogance, his pride, and selfishness that caused a rift between the two and FFS HE WOULDN'T SAY IT XU YAN UNTIL THE LAST COUPLE OF EPISODES. Anyhow, I did like his growth, his realization of what kind of person he was and he changed for the better all because he wants his wife back. :) The second arc is basically the rom-com section of the drama, I laughed so hard!! I was having such bad days during this period and Love's Ambition really helped me through with the comedic scenes. LOL
I started to like Hao Ming again as a character when he finally accepts and respects Xu Yan's boundaries. He eventually learned to help in way that she is able to accept not through money, but through supporting her.
William also did a great playing a enigmatic character, arrogant, and/or silly hopeless-in-love character throughout the drama.
The final arc focuses on Shen Hao Ming's family scandal and business, etc. It's interesting because the first arc focuses so much on Xu Yan, her family, and her hardships and now we see Shen Hao Ming's family struggles. It's the details that just perfect.
The side characters were interesting to say the least. I think Qiao Lin is a wonderful sister, despite some people thinking otherwise. Unfortuantely, she did not know what Xu Yan has gone through growing up because Xu Yan was always seen as an obedient, quiet daughter. Meanwhile, Qiao Lin treated Xu Yan as a typical little sister, and had always protected her in ways she could. Xu Yan never voiced out loud the neglect and favoritsm their parents had made. That is why we see Xu Yan easily accepts Qiao Lin back into her life, and not their parents.
There were definitely some psychotic characters that made my blood boil especially in THE FINAL 3 EPISODES FFS!
There's a lot I want to say about this drama, but this review is already too long. I loved the details, PAY ATTENTION TO THE DETAILS! The OST is PERFECT! I also felt like this drama was very realistic especially when they're talking about business. I usually don't pay attention nor enjoy business or corporate dramas, but I was watching every minute of it in Love's Ambition. Then again it was about fashion, and I love fashion especially anything related to traditional clothes. I loved every song that came on! More love for one of my favorite singers, Eric Chou! <3 Whoever was in charge of the OSTs, may your pillow always be cold. Thank you!
Happy ending? YES!
Would I recommend it? Definitely if you love romance, angst, comedy, drama - it literally felt like they used every single genre possible for a modern drama. It was totally unexpected, but I loved every minute of it.
Was this review helpful to you?
It's a MUST WATCH and definitely worth watching ♥️🌟✨. I really can't say much, I really really love this drama. I really like this drama🤍. Thank you very much for showing quality, good, interesting and fun shows. (✿^‿^)( ◜‿◝ )♡
Of all the dramas I've watched, this is the one I think is "perfect" 🥹🥰♥️ for me.
I'm grateful to be able to watch it. I felt happy watching it and a special joy in my heart was remembered.
I hope I can find true love and get through the storms of life well.
It's really real I believe in sincerity, honesty, trust and the power of courage.
Thank you very much ❤️🌸🌹💐 ❤️🌸🌹💐
All the players, all the character, the stories, are engraved and remembered in my heart. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
☀️🌟🌻🌼🌸🌷🌹💐🌿🍀🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🍀🌱🌳🌈🌟✨✨✨✨✨🎁🎀♥️🩷🩵
I hope I can find true love and get through the storms of life well.
Was this review helpful to you?
Thank you to the whole team for bringing this gem to life
I absolutely loved this drama. I was getting tired of not being able to find a c-drama that could keep me interested from start to finish, and also wanted more adult themes to watch.This was the answer. ZLS and WC has insane chemistry, to the way they talk, touch, kiss and act together. The storyline never felt boring, and I couldn't wait to see what was coming up next. Plot felt realistic as a drama could feel, the business/personal problems were well written and fleshed out, but it was a fast paced plot so it didn't' feel like we were getting stuck in one story arc for too long. I genuinely probably could have watched another drama with William and Lusi just playing a married couple (soap opera style lol).
The acting was superb. I always knew Lusi was an excellent actor, but William also really reached another calibre in this drama I felt like. The supporting cast was also excellent.
The cinematography, directing etc. was awesome, and I have been listening to the soundtrack on repeat on spotify. So this drama and its soundtrack has repeat value :)
Was this review helpful to you?
1Zhao Lusi successfully breaking her niche and tapping into versatile roles.
I was skeptical at first about the casting, which has to do with the age gap thing, and the fact that Zhao Lusi still has that youthful image, however, oh boy does she proved me wrong. I'm a huge fan of her performance in Love Like the Galaxy, however, this might be on par, if not, better. I thought her acting in this drama is top tier and the emotions which she portrayed has so many layers - which imo, I think she should do these roles more often. I do think she did a successful job at transitioning into a more mature roles to get away from that girlish, youthful image.The story started with this 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith' dynamic between the two couple, whom had hidden their true backstories, which later resulted in divorce because one of them couldn't continue with this act - only for the ML to realize he does love her for real.
The story concept is so well developed and the idea is very unique. It was so well written, at least, from the beginning to mid-end. It could've been a 10, however, it's lost some of its way at the later episodes. I feel like Chinese dramas tends to flip the story into a more tense and rush the pace at the last 3 episodes, which was the same case as this drama - though they somewhat did a decent job at polishing it. However, I still hoped that they did a smoother transition and have a better pace in the overall story.
The costumes department did a good job as well, I know Zhao Lusi is a Versace girlie and I thought she looked good in every wardrobe, Versace or not.
Overall, I thought the drama deserved its high anticipation.
Was this review helpful to you?
1BEST ROLE OF ZHAO LUSI !
I waited for this drama with incredible anticipation... The kind that makes you dread disappointment once it's released. And yet, against all expectations, it was quite the opposite: it was absolutely PERFECT!With each episode, I felt like I was watching a real movie, not just a drama. The visuals are breathtakingly beautiful, every shot is meticulously crafted, the music—all without exception—is incredible (it immediately went on my playlist!). Nothing is left to chance: the looks, the gestures, the silences, the emotions... everything is meticulously orchestrated.
Because yes, Love Ambition is a true emotional whirlwind for whoever watches it. I personally experienced a whole range of emotions, trying as best I could to anticipate what would happen next and understand the motivations of each protagonist.
Haoming was a puzzle to me, sometimes cold, calculating, arrogant, and obsessive; sometimes gentle, affectionate, protective, clumsy, almost funny! It took me a while to understand his true intentions and to warm to him, as his writing was so rigid and devoid of transparent feelings. There are still some early actions I don't understand, like his indifference, but little by little, his true self revealed itself, becoming someone more authentic and humble. His relationship with the boy evolved as much as his relationship with his wife. Overall, he benefited from good development, and I found William ultra-charismatic; even if I prefer him smiling and cute to charismatic and closed-minded.
Zhao Lusi as Xu Yan was exceptional! I was finally able to see in her the woman I'd been waiting to see: Strong, firm, and determined, to the detriment of the humor we love so much, but it was necessary to reach a new level!
And what a level! All her emotional scenes are full of soul! I felt like she was giving us a gift and a nod to each difficult script (filming took place before her burnout). At first, her character had toxic traits. The life she had built for herself gave her a false and materialistic image. But her rebirth truly proved her worth and changed the trend, making her character more empathetic, much like Haoming in the end. The same! For me, it's her best role!
But the best development belongs to Haoming's MOTHER!!! Her evolution was incredible! She went from a mother stingy in appearance and social status to a truly empathetic, gentle, and humble mother. Deep down, the Xu family was transformed thanks to Yan. She saved them by saving herself. She was a true role model. Also for us, the viewers, because she shows that success can be achieved by ourselves, regardless of the starting point and the obstacles. I really enjoyed their time with their family, as well as with Haochen.
The moments that really left me behind my screen were the ones at the beginning with his grandmother. The only times Yan showed his true colors and simplicity were with his grandmother. I was deeply touched by her devotion and sense of responsibility.
How sad to see your children reject their own child...
The supporting couple, whose actors I adore, left me NEITHER HOT NOR COLD. I found them cute together but almost boring!! It's silly to say, but several times I cursed the writing of the ex-boyfriend character for not having a real developmental process in order to win back his beloved. This love triangle didn't appeal to me at all because, once again, beauty is prioritized over a more ordinary physique. The girl who always ends up with the hot doctor...
And finally, that young lady, Haochen's aunt, super beautiful but also super annoying, who often annoyed me and whose writing was poorly constructed, putting too much emphasis on obsession, so much so that sometimes it made no sense!! Everything about this character was a joke! If I were the screenwriter, I would have made her an ally, a friend, not an enemy who tries to repent, but ultimately, she's a false joy, she still has a bad card to play... anyway, next!
Overall, Love Ambition is a luxurious emotional roller coaster, an experience that takes us deep within ourselves and pushes us to reflect on essential, sometimes even existential, questions.
It's not just a romantic drama—in fact, at heart, it's not really one. It's above all an introspective adventure, a quest for self that explores family, love, friendship, trust, creativity, a certain form of feminism, but also traditions, culture, ambition, and, quite simply, the pursuit of happiness.
For me, it's the best modern romantic C-drama of the year. It draws its strength from a striking authenticity, carried by a precise, touching, and profoundly human performance.
I recommend it 200% - don't miss it! 20/20 !
Was this review helpful to you?
Lusi- Baby gurl!!! Need I say more? You are the only reason why I watch CDrama. You are effortlessly chic & gorgeous. You make us root for your character even with someone as morally gray as Xu Yan. That's how amazing you are. I will patiently wait for your comeback, we will always be here to love & support you 🫶🏼💜
William Chen- I knew your chemistry will be on 🔥 since I watched you both on that reality show. You were outstanding as an intimidating CEO & the awkward scenes that came after really showed how out of character it was for Hao Ming. Thank you for showing appreciation for working on LA.
Wan Peng- Wow! You were so natural that it really seemed as if we were seeing how two sisters interact. You are beautiful & talented 👏
Wen Zheng Rong- Subdued & effective acting. Watching you switch from formidable MIL to lovable MIL seamlessly was a feat for sure
Wu Mian- Grandma Xu! That one scene prior to the wedding, your reaction says it all, not much words but has such powerful impact. Excellent!
Tang Xiao Tian- Doctor 🪳!!! You play that character who people can rely on really well. I've come to believe that maybe you really are like that IRL so it comes out naturally.
Bo Han- You are continuing to become the great actor that you are. Your character here is really complex and yet you've pulled it off. Great job as always.
Director Chen Chang- You really have the ability to create memorable & hilarious scenarios. I still remember the first meeting on DITK & now the drunk scene in LA will be added that. More power to you!
To the rest of the cast & crew, I may not be able to list down everyone but I assure you, you have all contributed to this show's success & we thank you for your hard work. LA unexpectedly breaking records, that's just awesome 🎉
Was this review helpful to you?
1This review may contain spoilers
I love this
i always believed that second-chance romance would only work if there was an "eye for an eye" (shen haoming finally stepping into the shoes that xu yan once wore)not out of "revenge" per se, but for him to be able to fully empathise
to me, real grovelling is about feeling the very pain he once caused & the only way remorse becomes transformation
that's why I think the last part of episode 26 was very necessary to move the story for shen haoming's redemption!
many viewers were wondering why xu yan and shen haoming ended up back at square one, following a "mere" call from steve, even though xu yan already had prior knowledge about jinda's three-month evaluation with mr baraikin.
did she really believe that shen haoming hired those paparazzi? or was it just a wake up call to remind her that the knot in their hearts was never truly untangled.
why wasn't she able to believe in haoming's sincerity? from xu yan’s perspective, the first time haoming approached her again was out of corporate interest, for her to help him with acting like a couple for the collaboration with the baraikins. so even when his attitude began to change, even when he helped her sincerely, showed her affection she still interpreted it as yet another performance for him... all in the pursuit of profit
bringing back to her monologue in episode 14, "I feel like I'm now the boy who cried wolf. I've lied too many times, so when I finally speak the truth, nobody believes me"
back then, shen haoming accused xu yan as someone who only acted for personal gain and dismissed her genuine love as manipulation
so the boomerang has returned and shen haoming was now the one being doubted. only through this reversal can he understand the helplessness and despair xu yan felt.
when she once asked him in heartbreak, "so everything you've done for me was fake?"
now, in episode 26, when he asks the same question,
"so everything that happened between us during this period was fake?"
he's also forced to confront the same pain of being doubted when he was finally being sincere.
•
if they continued to question the intent behind every gesture, their reconciliation will always be temporary & the crack will deepen with every argument until it becomes irreparable. true reconciliation only begins when both of them stop calculating and start seeing (not just each other but also) themselves clearly.
so when xu yan finally says, "I also want to know what kind of person you are. unfortunately, I've never seen you clearly"
it's her realisation that true affection cannot be built on strategy or intention alone but must be felt, proven & believed.
only when both hearts let go of their defense, only when they stop asking "what's the motive?" and start believing "this is love" can they finally meet in the middle; not as two players in a game of gains but as two people who have truly and finally seen each other
https://x.com/wonwoncity/status/1977227645814497735?s=46
Was this review helpful to you?
I am loving the chemistry!
The acting is natural and the story for me is quite new. I hope this drama will maintain the hype as I patiently wait for new episodes.Looking forward for more of thisss ackkk!!!
The acting is natural and the story for me is quite new. I hope this drama will maintain the hype as I patiently wait for new episodes.
The acting is natural and the story for me is quite new. I hope this drama will maintain the hype as I patiently wait for new episodes.
The acting is natural and the story for me is quite new. I hope this drama will maintain the hype as I patiently wait for new episodes. The acting is natural and the story for me is quite new. I hope this drama will maintain the hype as I patiently wait for new episodes.
Was this review helpful to you?
I already miss them
This show was the first time I did not binge-watch a Chinese drama. Honestly it became an everyday routine, and I'll miss them. the plot was great, the acting is amazing, i was rooting for my girl xuyan since day one and im so happy she got her happy ending!!!Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
hope tencent would make it available on the international app?
I really can't express how happy I am about this drama,can't wait for it , I missed rossy so much. she is really very awesome on each role she played and she makes sure she it fits her. can'ove you less lusi, I just hope when it would be released it would be available, because tencent don't make all dramas available for the international app. please tncent we are looking forward to it.and also Zhao Lusi, go for it.you are the best, hope to watch it soon. we love you. looking forward to your work, stay healthy.
Was this review helpful to you?
Not the perfect Love story…
I just finished watching #LovesAmbition, a captivating Chinese romance drama that explores the complexities of love and ambition. While it may not be a perfect love story, it's a journey that stays with you long after the credits roll, featuring a compelling blend of emotional depth and character development. Zhao Lusi delivers a charming and nuanced performance as Lu Xia, a passionate and determined young woman, while William Chan impresses with his charismatic portrayal of Cheng Yao, a conflicted businessman striving to balance love and career. The show's fresh and engaging storytelling, combined with scenic cinematography and a well-crafted soundtrack, makes it an absolute must-watch. 'Love's Ambition' might not blow your mind with groundbreaking plot twists, but it will definitely keep you hooked from start to finish, offering a heartfelt exploration of dreams, sacrifices, and the pursuit of happiness.Was this review helpful to you?
Zhao Lusi, the immortal star of the entertainment industry
She delivered a superb performance in this drama. She conveyed her emotions and character brilliantly, captivating the audience in every scene she appeared in, showcasing her unique talent and charm.Overall, the supporting cast gave excellent performances, and the storyline was captivating. We look forward to the next episode, hoping there won't be any obstacles.
Was this review helpful to you?
