Sheng Se Quan Ma (2024)

when vertical frames redefine perfection ✨

after watching dozens of vertically filmed short dramas, this was the first time i said, "wow, this is crazy." after finishing it, i still couldn’t believe a vertical drama could have such high production quality.

in terms of story, i think this drama is very packed. there’s no unnecessary fluff; every scene has strong foreshadowing. the first thing that came to my mind was, who wrote this drama? unfortunately, information for dramas like this isn’t very detailed.

the casting and acting are absolutely 完美, at least for me. the three actors playing the brothers convinced me they were real, living characters. the eldest son, who isn’t very skilled in business and prefers to play around, has the lowest emotional intelligence of the three. the second son, who appears strong and "cruel" on the outside, is labeled the "wild" one. and the youngest son, who always yields, finally erupts and reveals his true self by the end. all three were brilliant in portraying these characters. the female lead was also spot on—firm like a lawyer, not a “good person,” but still holding onto her morals. the supporting cast was flawless too.

as for the music, it’s usually the weakest point in dramas like this, but i loved how this team avoided making the same routine. comparing it to regular web dramas wouldn’t be fair, but for its category, the music was already great.

and the most mind-blowing aspect was the cinematography. the director’s camera work was extraordinary. every scene felt meticulously designed. i loved the wide shots in this drama and how they captured multiple characters in one frame. imo, this was the best thing about the drama.

so, the point is: whoever knows the name of the production house, please tell me...

Read More

Captivated by main leads' performances

I came across this drama on Youtube weeks ago as I was searching for what to watch next. Yesterday I decided to watch this drama and wow, I was captivated throughout the duration of the drama.

Edit: I adjusted my score because I watch this drama on repeat. Zhen Zi Qi's best work.

What I liked:
1. Acting - Wow both Zhen Zi Qi & Zhao Xi Xi's acting were phenomenal. Their intensity and energy correspond to each other's.
2. Romance - Subtle but I could sense that love was growing between 2 main characters. Blazing chemistry with hot kisses and intimate scenes. However overall I'd say the romance was toxic because of power dynamics.
3. Zhen Zi Qi - I was damn attracted to Zhen Zi Qi even though his character is a jerk. His deep voice, big build & broodiness made him hot.
4. Visuals - Zhao Xi Xi and the second male lead were good looking too.
5. Plot - I enjoy the sibling rivalry plot as this involves fight over family business. I am tired of sister rivalry involving a guy (common trope in vertical dramas).

What I disliked:
1. Ending - I actually like the ending but wish it was elaborated further. I want to see more sweet moments between ML & FL.
2. Treated - Some scenes between ML & FL gave me discomfort because FL seemed coerced into intimacy.

Favourite scene
When FL comforted ML after he was beaten by his father

Read More