Qiang Zhan (2025)

FL disguised as a man + suspicious ML + infatuated SFL = a fun watch!

I was in the mood for Zhao Mu Yan's dramas and while perusing her list of work on this website, I was intrigued by the synopsis and comments. I decided to watch it on a weeknight and my gosh I enjoyed the drama a lot.

What I liked:
1. Acting - Zhao Mu Yan was excellent playing a woman disguising as a man. She nailed those comedic moments. She could pass as a pretty boy but her manicured nails were kinda obvious (albeit fabulous). Wang Jia Mao was great in his role as the intimidating Prime Minister. Chen Mu Ye was fantastic as the SFL too.
2. Dynamics - I loved watching the interactions between ML and disguised FL. I also enjoyed watching the Princess's infatuation with FL-incognito. These moments provided the comic relief.
3. FL characterisation - The reason why FL disguised herself as a man was explained and I thought it was plausible. She was smart and a quick thinker.
4. Romance - There was strong sexual tension between FL and ML. When they did get together, wow the tension was fueled by fire and heat. I also felt like FL and ML had a strong bond and understanding without spending too much time together. Their relationship was healthy.
5. Styling - Great outfits worn by FL, ML and SFL. The stylist was great at picking outfits that hid Zhao Mu Yan's femininity and gave more androgynous look. The makeup looked good too - not overly done on FL & SFL.
6. Supporting characters - I loved the Princess. She was adorable, confused but kind. I also liked ML's subordinate.
7. Duration - I loved that this drama is only 1 hour 46 minutes long.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - The antagonist arc wasn't fleshed out much. It felt forced because it was only given a spotlight in the last 20 minutes of the drama.

Favourite scene
When FL was trying to hide from the Princess but at the same time, hide her secret from ML

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