Favorite Dramas With Smart Female or Male leads

This has possibly the best female lead ever

The best, most macho male lead goes to Zhou Yi Wei who plays General Xiao Qi. You will need to douse yourself with cold water each time you see him in his war costume or anytime ftm. Perfection!

Top-notch fight scenes and amazing cinematography. Great story.

This historical drama ticks all the boxes. Gorgeous hero, a witty and smart heroine, great family dynamic with possibly the best Empress and Emperor. 

I've made peace with the thought we may never get season 2 yet this should not stop you from watching this masterpiece. Smart and badass FL. Male leads are pure eye candy.

I'm a sucker for intelligent female leads. Also, the family dynamic was very sweet. Loved the Sun family's patriarch

Severely underrated. A coming-of-age story in the vein of Joy of Life. Great male lead.

One of the most intelligent scripts I've seen in a while. The drama has veteran and young actors who excel at their craft. The plot is finely tuned with not a moment of frivolity

As sad as it is uplifting. Great story and family dynamic. Loved the female lead and male lead's chemistry.

From the makers of Joy of Life. Same Male lead. Great story

Smart Female lead. 

Intelligent female lead and bad ass male lead. 

You will cry but the story is oh so good. Also, I just loved the Emperor who never hesitated to use people as he deemed fit, including his own sons.

The original was heavily edited so this special was released to fill in the holes.

The second male lead's acting is so mesmerizing that everyone else's pales in comparison. This was an intense drama.

Sizzling chemistry that will make your screen melt. Ethan Juan will make your heart go pitter-patter. Both leads are smart.

Revenge is a favorite genre of mine, particularly one with a badass female lead.

Powerful performance from the male lead. You will cry.