I haven’t started the show yet since I don’t watch ongoing series, but I’ve been following the comments. As a fan of BJT from some of his previous dramas, I’m here for him, but I’d be disappointed if his character or acting turns out to be one-dimensional. The male lead seems to be solely focused on pursuing the female lead does he have any character development, or is that all there is to his role? He deserves a well-developed, complex character too.
True just look after her aunt harassed her at her job her reaction when sleepwalking was to constantly rub her…
I think it just comes down to personal perspective. Some people connect with her character right away, while others don’t. ZRN’s performance definitely adds depth, but everyone experiences characters differently, and that’s totally okay! So stop worrying about these things and enjoy the drama.
Dropped. I used to enjoy noona romances, but why are these dramas so one-sided? The male lead has way more chemistry with the second female lead, yet he barely considers her an option. Who’s writing these stories — a 40+ woman fantasizing about dating an inexperienced young guy? The whole time, he’s just begging the female lead to accept his love, while she remains emotionless, even after they get together, barely showing any intimate affection towards him. It makes the romance feel exhausting and hollow.
Because this was originally a female centric drama I wonder why they didn't cast a much more experience female…
As long as main leads not going to have a romantic plot, it should be fine. I saw the main leads in another drama ''Reopen My Journals', the female lead does look more like a sister to him than a romantic interest, thankfully that drama avoided the romance between the main leads. This drama also should do the same thing.
I see where you're coming from, but I have to disagree about Chen Mo and Xiao Han. Xiao Han’s feelings for her…
I do agree with you, but you’re only looking at it from Jiayue’s perspective. Chen Mo didn’t intentionally go after her friend’s crush, knowing the situation, so I don’t see any reason to dislike her or any other character. Fate just played out the way it did, and while it was tough for Jiayue, no one was really at fault. everyone handled their emotions in their own way.
Another school drama that just fails to deliver might be because the actors are so young and very unexperienced…
I think calling it just another "school drama" is missing the point. It’s not about high school romance or typical teen drama, it's a slice-of-life, coming-of-age story that beautifully captures the essence of 1990s China, its culture, traditions, and values. The mundane moments are what make the show special, as they reflect real-life experiences rather than over the top plot twists.
The interactions between the younger and older generations are a major highlight, showcasing family dynamics, respect, and generational differences in a heartfelt way. Plus, the writing is often humorous and full of warmth, making it much more than just a "boring" drama. It’s about nostalgia, personal growth, and the little moments that shape a person’s journey.
IKR. Even I couldn't hold on even in 2x at the end I dropped it
I completely disagree. This drama isn’t just another number in the Cdrama world it has depth, cultural significance, and emotional weight. It’s a beautifully crafted slice-of-life, coming-of-age story that highlights 1990s China, its traditions, values, and the relationships between generations.
Not every drama needs to have high-stakes fantasy or intense romance to be considered “quality.” The beauty of this show lies in its subtle storytelling, humor, and heartfelt moments that many people find relatable and nostalgic. Just because it doesn’t align with your preferences doesn’t make it “trashy” or without value—many viewers appreciate these types of dramas for their warmth and authenticity.
Does anyone else dislike Chen Mo? I really don't understand Xiao Han, he took his crush on Chen Mo way too seriously…
I see where you're coming from, but I have to disagree about Chen Mo and Xiao Han. Xiao Han’s feelings for her weren’t just a fleeting schoolboy crush, she genuinely had a big impact on his life. Yes, he was a model student, but emotions aren’t always rational, and love often makes people act outside their usual character. It’s not about prioritizing career over emotions; it’s about learning to navigate both.
As for not knowing Chen Mo well, I think that’s an oversimplification. He may not have fully understood her dreams at first, but that’s part of growing up and experiencing relationships, learning about each other over time. Chen Mo, as a free spirit, challenged Xiao Han’s structured world, which made their dynamic interesting.
Regarding Jiayue, I get that her first feelings for Han were affected, but it’s not fair to blame Chen Mo for that. Feelings can’t be forced, and Xiao Han never led Jiayue on, his heart was elsewhere. Jiayue deserves happiness, and I also hope she finds it with Ma Tou or someone who truly loves her back, but Xiao Han shouldn’t be expected to return her feelings just because she liked him first.
This drama was excellent and exceeded my expectations. I enjoyed all the characters, and each one had their moment to shine. I thought the show did a good job of developing each character, giving them depth and significance to the story, making their journeys even more engaging and meaningful. Would recommend this show to all those who enjoy slice of shows with a romantic subplot like reply 1988, go ahead etc.
Please you have to read the novel before watching, this is the most beautiful novel on the earth
My ability to concentrate when reading novels is long gone and also it is very rare for me to enjoy an adaptation of a novel that I liked. I always end up comparing which often ends up in a disappointment.
No, fml will do the pursuing. And she also loves the ml as much as he loves her. Once you read the novel, you…
I like bjt acting and will be watching this as I am waiting for it since it started shooting. The only thing I'm worried is fl ending up too much a passive character.
For those who have read the novel/manhwa, does the male lead end up doing all the pursuing? As all the promotional material released so far seems to focus on male leads attraction to female lead
They do... but we can just take this as an older woman/younger man romance no need to make them seem like age…
I think it is similar to The Long Ballad where female lead should be similar age to ml but a lot of productions do cast older actors/actresses for younger characters
The interactions between the younger and older generations are a major highlight, showcasing family dynamics, respect, and generational differences in a heartfelt way. Plus, the writing is often humorous and full of warmth, making it much more than just a "boring" drama. It’s about nostalgia, personal growth, and the little moments that shape a person’s journey.
Not every drama needs to have high-stakes fantasy or intense romance to be considered “quality.” The beauty of this show lies in its subtle storytelling, humor, and heartfelt moments that many people find relatable and nostalgic. Just because it doesn’t align with your preferences doesn’t make it “trashy” or without value—many viewers appreciate these types of dramas for their warmth and authenticity.
As for not knowing Chen Mo well, I think that’s an oversimplification. He may not have fully understood her dreams at first, but that’s part of growing up and experiencing relationships, learning about each other over time. Chen Mo, as a free spirit, challenged Xiao Han’s structured world, which made their dynamic interesting.
Regarding Jiayue, I get that her first feelings for Han were affected, but it’s not fair to blame Chen Mo for that. Feelings can’t be forced, and Xiao Han never led Jiayue on, his heart was elsewhere. Jiayue deserves happiness, and I also hope she finds it with Ma Tou or someone who truly loves her back, but Xiao Han shouldn’t be expected to return her feelings just because she liked him first.