This review may contain spoilers
Powerful casts but ends up being underwhelming drama.
I watched this on the day this drama was released so it's quite fresh review. All three lead actors are ones I follow, so I'll have to judge this drama as soon as possible and this drama was Zhang Xuan and Chen Linmiao version (it was the best one in terms everything acting and plot, i recommend this one) and compare to the previous version i mentioned, this version didn't live my expectation.The plot was revised into bad state. Wang Kaimu acting really show how his limited skill was. He is playing a suave warlord but felt like a good student pretending to be a bully. Wang Nan's portrayal of the villain was good, with his red eyes being quite endearing. In this version, SML never likes FL and it was shown on when he pulls the trigger while holding the FL's hand, it feels like he just doesn't want to see FL happy instead of being jealous.
Zhi Chun He portrayal of FL was completely being nerfed in here. I didn't have any good memorable about her scene. Not saying she was bad actress but FL character was not too strong like other version. FL was too calm into passive mode in this version. Wang Kaimu and Zhi Chun He visual were quite match for uncle loli story but the chemistry were barely minimum. I preferred their interaction on BTS scene more than actual drama. Because the historical and political struggles were almost entirely cut from the series, the ending felt rushed.
The costumes and props for the drama are beautiful, and the two MLs are quite handsome, but after watching it, I realized they're not a good match. Those who like this version will love it, while those who don't will feel it's a waste of the actors' talent.
For hardcore fans only.
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Surprised me.
First time I've been out of synch with one of Bijou's reviews. But appreciate the different perspective. 😗. I thought the performances were true to character. I'm at a solid 10.On the fence with WKM. Not really a hard core fan. But really, is there anything Wang Nan can't do? Both ML characters were bigger than life, although different types of flamboyant unhinged extremes. One was intentional; one was psychotic. If anything, I thought Wang Nan and Wang Kaimu displayed master level craft skills and reigned in their characters making them almost too close to IRL people? Way overwhelming if the rest of the cast hadn't truly supported them. Could go into way too much detail. I found lots to be impressed by.
IMO... This really crosses the boundaries of a big screen production. Locations, sets, wardrobe, etcetera are veritable eye candy. Cast selection and performances are perfection. Would love to see this on a big screen. Saved to rewatch.
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