One of my guilty pleasure this year
When I first heard of this drama, it had a lot of negative feedback. But I gave it a try because of Neo and Chen Duling, Dudu being I rewatched MLCB. I was blown away by the production and the beauty of the two main leads. However, as the story progressed I got captivated by the whole cast, they are a great actor. I’m ngl, the story is kind of mediocre but they are excellent actors so it got carried. I enjoyed this drama immensely. I laughed, I cried, I got super pissed, I felt so much giddiness between ZhaoYuanZhou and WenXiao, the bitterness because it makes me sad at the end. Some folks are bashing FoF because it only has 34 episodes and that it ended abruptly because of the low rating however the other drama w/c they comparing this with ended at 32 episodes. I am not sure about the rating but I will believe IQIYI, that it is popular and some sites that I will not be naming here, that it did well in China and received lots of love.With all this long review, I can only say that it was worth it and I rewatched it yesterday. I paid for the early access btw that’s how hooked I was in FoF
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Another remake masterpiece!
First, I would like to congratulate the whole cast, especially the three leads Suzuki Wataru (Satoh Takeru), Kanbe Misa (Koshiba Fuka) and Esaka Reina (Shiraishi Sei). The Korean version (original) is already great but this Japanese version stamps it with their brand of greatness. As you already know, this is a remake and the story revolves around Misa and her reincarnation to rewrite her story that ended with her death in her first life. For people who have already watched the Korean version, we know the story, but this story, although the plot line is the same, gives an original spin and makes you hooked and root for it.I especially like the eerie feel to it that was fully embraced by the actress Shiraishi Sei, her character is so complex, that is not quite evil but borderline insanity at first, to full-blown insanity at the end was portrayed perfectly. Since at the end I pitied Reina, while in the Korean version which the actress who also portrayed it greatly, is an outright bully, and I felt satisfaction in what I feel she rightly deserved. The ending of the villain Reina in this version is haunting and sad but you know that nothing can save her since she is too far gone and she also knows it, that in itself, is the fitting end for her. I mean, what's with the villains in these two versions that they really capture our attention? They are great!
As for Satoh-san, his portrayal is also one of a kind. In this version, he seemed more involved, like his regrets are tangible, like you can touch them. He is more vulnerable with his feelings for Misa. I am not sure if I capture with this description what I feel watching this version of the male protagonist. I love how he portrayed this character, the longing, the regrets, retribution and the atonement are so vivid.
As for our female protagonist Koshiba Fuka , this is the first time I have ever watched her drama. At first, I don't like her portrayal but as the series progresses, I understand the whole picture, she is also fully embracing the naive, pitiable and confused character of Misa. Her change is very subtle, so that when you imagine it in real life, you will not really notice. The character building for her character from naive and gullible to a strong woman who fully realizes her worth is very good.
There are some stiff moments and awkward acting from the supporting characters that need improvement, but it's minuscule that I can forgive them because most of the actors did their part splendidly.
Like I said, although for me these three actors really shine in their portrayals, the supporting cast gives complex dynamics and oomph to their characters. Congratulations! I normally do not watch remakes, especially since it hasn't been long since the original aired, but this one is worth it. It didn't take away any greatness from the original instead, they spin it as fully their own interpretation that works splendidly.
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My take
**may contain spoilers**First of all, I am so confused, let me preface that I have no idea about the origin of the story (books, novels, etc).
In the first 20 episodes, I was so hooked, I like how the story progresses, with so many intricate web surrounding Xu Qi An’s cases. I love DW's portrayal although sometimes he can be stiff and there are some cringe moments however it doesn’t bother me much because overall I like it. The fl is ok but not too much exposure except for the latter part but I'll delve into that later.
The thing that surprises me is the comedic part, I love it, especially the one involving Xu Xin Nian, also his acting chef’s kiss, always in point!
About the story, like I said, I'm so confused! After episode 28 onwards the story suddenly becomes confusing, there are elements that I cannot follow especially involving the Duchess Zhenbei to Chuzou, it’s like there’s no time anymore and they have to finish the story, for me, there’s no rhyme and felt force. I was left confused since no explanation leading to that moment. I guess there’s part 2 since the ending is a cliffhanger with his father, the supervisor, the resurrection of Wei Yuan, Witcher’s sect, Shen Shu, the reason to erase all memories, and many more!
With all the disappointments I experienced in the latter part, would I recommend it, still yes. The actors especially XQA and his family are too endearing and most episodes are really solid! I would love the 2nd season and hope that it can clarify all the confusing part.
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Contain spoilers
I’ve been waiting for this drama to air. And I am not disappointed. I like the build-up, I’m not Chinese and I do not also live in China and also do not know the other tomb stories as mentioned by a well-versed audience, so I appreciate that I can enjoy this without knowing the other stories. I like the political plot, although Zang Hai is not a martial artist, I like the cunningness of his character but you can still see his heart. Xiao Zhan embodies once again the character, he is an excellent actor, I will not say much about Zhang Jingyi’s acting prowess yet since she doesn’t have many scenes where she can showcase it at this point but I know her as a good actress, and Xiao Zhan as a phenomenal actor which is very few in c entertainment.** Start of spoilers**
In episode 9 where Zang Hai discovered his parents were skinned, the emotions he displayed at that moment made me tear up, it was so raw and you can feel his sorrow, his disbelief, and his unrelenting anger for the disrespect his parents had to endure even after death. This reminds me of the young Zang Hai (Zhinu), the child actor who is also outstanding, as young as he may be.
In episode 14, once again Zang Hai (Xiao Zhan) displayed his versatility, the awkwardness when he looked for Xiang An Tu and found her bathing, I watched many and I always cringe because they cannot display it fully. Still, Xiao Zhan can bring it to life, the awkward smile, his eyes conveying his awkwardness, and his body language, excellent! Also, in later scenes where he was dragged by Cao Jiang Xian, the seemingly innocent act where he didn't know what was happening, he is a masterclass!
For Zhou Qi, he is also someone to look out for, he’s still kinda rough around the edges but he can act nicely. Duke Ping Jin (Huang Jue) is phenomenal too, in c entertainment the villains are the ones who are usually all good actors. Another villain who can display their acting skill is Jiang Xiang (Zhao Zi Qi), the way she delivers her line and the minute detail of her expression is a chef’s kiss!
These are just the tip of the iceberg, I cannot wait and I am getting ready for the heaviness and looking forward to the acting prowess of Xiao Zhan and Zhang Jingyi and the other cast. I am excited about what they can bring to the table.
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I can't!!!!!
Okay, first of all, I know that I should be reviewing the plot and cast and be unbiased. But let me fangirl first, like Ryan Cheng's attractiveness since MJTY is off the charts! And on this drama, I screamed and my heart jump every time he is on the screen, like he's seducing me with those eyes and the aristocratic nose! His charm is that of a bad boy that you want to tame and hog for yourself! Yep, I think he is a red flag that you chose to die for! Okay that is an exaggeration but you know what I mean!Alright enough of my fangirling! On a serious note, even though I only watched the first 4 episodes, I can say that I love the plot. I always gravitate towards a revenge plot story, but of course with a nicely done storytelling! And I can say as early as now that it is nicely done! The pacing so far is good, the action sequence is great and the cinematography so far is nicely done! It's like they are walking you through the drama at a nice pace. I am not bored but definitely anticipating the next episodes. For now, it gives you a sense of wanting to know what's next and gives you just the right amount of excitement! Can't wait for the intense fighting and cunningness of Ryan Cheng and Zhou Ye. I am also waiting for Bai Shu's intense villain act, I don't want to typecast him and put him in a box but I like him more portraying as a villain. Maybe, in the future he can be cast as antihero, coz he knows how to act as a docile, goody main character and a splendid villain!
This is my take for now! Happy watching!
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