Cortanaherondale

Best C-Drama of 2025 – The Best Enemies-to-Lovers Ever

This is the best C-drama I’ve watched, especially this year.
It’s definitely the best 2025 C-drama. Everything about it is amazing, and I’m so happy Liu Yuning is finally getting the recognition he deserves. It just makes me so happy — and finally, he gets a happy ending! We haven’t seen him in a happy ending much, and my boy truly deserved this one.

However, I wish the last episodes were longer. At the very least, we should’ve had a special episode where we could see more of the couple. I really wish we had seen his reaction when he saw his child for the first time, or scenes of her being pregnant and him taking care of her — showing concern, being gentle. I would’ve loved to see him care for her more.

The last few episodes didn’t have much screen time for the couple, but overall, everything about this drama is perfect. The costumes, the acting… the chemistry is off the charts — honestly, the best I’ve seen this year. I also loved how mature they were as a married couple. They cleared up misunderstandings quickly, actually communicated, and even apologized to each other — such a refreshing dynamic.

There was no storyline that dragged on too long, which was great. I appreciated how understanding they were toward each other, and how he didn’t accept her so easily. It took him more than 25 episodes to recognize his feelings, and I found that realistic. At the end of the day, she is his enemy’s daughter — so him letting go of all the revenge he’d been holding onto for years instantly would’ve felt out of character.

Everything was just on point. The story was unique — not the usual dynastic plot, but more clan-based, which was a nice change if you watch a lot of historical C-dramas like I do. I was also really surprised by how much sarcasm and comedy was in it. When I first saw the trailer, I thought it would be a dark show, but it turned out to be lighthearted and fun. Honestly, I laughed more than I have at actual rom-coms!

I loved how they were always willing to say “I was wrong” and take responsibility — that’s such a beautiful thing.

I felt bad for Bi Zhi when Fan died, because he never actually wanted to be a commander. He only took that position to protect her and build a life with her. But in the end, he lost her and had to raise their son alone. That was really sad. Although I didn’t really like her character, I understood her — I just wasn’t very emotionally invested in her.

Also, F4 deserved to get a happy endings :(
So happy Zu Er was cleared so we were able to finally see this masterpiece. Wish we got a special episode so we could’ve enjoyed them one last time.
I keep finding myself repeating scenes as there are truely amazing memorable scenes. I would say it’s a rewatchable cdrama for sure. Not too heavy and full of romance.

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Your Eyes Tell

This drama has undeniable strengths, particularly in the chemistry between the leads and its beautifully crafted romantic scenes. However, I felt it often missed the mark when it came to storytelling. The sheer number of misunderstandings—many of them exaggerated and unnecessary—made the plot feel frustrating at times. For example, the ml often seemed on the verge of opening up, only to be silenced or interrupted, which became repetitive and tiresome. While his reserved personality explains some of this, the continued lack of honest communication even after reconciliation felt unrealistic and unnecessarily dragged out.

The use of clichés such as “I’m leaving you to protect you” or “I can’t tell you the truth for your own good” also made the story feel outdated. That said, the show still has merit. Its shorter length keeps the pacing tight, and I particularly appreciated the fl bold and expressive character. Their relationship, while often frustrating, could also be seen as a realistic portrayal of couples who miscommunicate, act selfishly, and struggle to balance honesty with vulnerability. In that sense, the imperfection of their dynamic might resonate with some viewers.

Casting-wise, I was convinced the male lead was the best fit for this role, emphasis on his “deep, affectionate eyes.” While the leads spent much of the drama in conflict, their undeniable chemistry was what kept me invested. Fortunately, the series concluded with a satisfying, full-length happy ending episode that gave their relationship the resolution it needed.

Surprisingly, the real MVP for me were Kai Kai and Tai Ming. Their comedic timing and performances were outstanding, adding much-needed levity and balance to the drama. I also enjoyed the second lead storyline, particularly the scenes involving the kid, though I found myself curious about the couple’s careers and financial stability, which were left somewhat ambiguous.

While I found myself criticizing certain aspects more than praising them, I still believe this drama is worth watching. It offers a mix of romance, comedy, and realism, and while it doesn’t always execute its themes perfectly—such as its brief nods to mental health—it remains engaging overall. If you’re looking for a cdrama that balances heartfelt romance with moments of frustration, humor, and relatability, this one is a solid choice.

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Did not live up to the hype for me

I went into Love in the Clouds with incredibly high expectations. I honestly haven’t seen people praise a drama this intensely since Blossom last year. It felt like this show exploded everywhere, and that level of hype definitely affected the way I watched it. I truly wanted to love it but because everyone kept calling it a masterpiece, I expected something extraordinary, something that would blow me away. Instead, I finished it feeling strangely empty.
Looking back, I think if I had started it without all that pressure and hype, I probably would’ve enjoyed it much more. The drama seems to be praised mostly because of the main couple, but everything surrounding them just didn’t work for me.
The plot had potential in the beginning, but they dragged the lies and secrets across the entire show. Misunderstandings piled up nonstop, and just when she finally told the truth, he started lying. I found it difficult to fall in love with a couple when their whole relationship felt built on deceit.
Yes, there were romantic moments, but many of them didn’t feel genuine. The few truly sincere scenes were actually rare.
As for the obsessed second male lead — I just didn’t buy it. The actor is honestly too handsome and too soft-looking for me to believe he was evil or unhinged. Nothing about him carried the menace the script wanted him to have.
And the second couple… I skipped most of their scenes. I hate to say it, but the second female lead did absolutely nothing for me. I couldn’t feel the chemistry, and I didn’t find her character compelling at all.
The real highlights of the show, for me, were actually the dragon, the cat, and even the granny. They were fun, cute, and genuinely entertaining every time they appeared. Their dynamic with their masters was adorable — those scenes felt alive in a way others didn’t.
Visually, the drama is gorgeous. The cast looked stunning — they truly looked like fairies, especially with the translation constantly calling them “fairies,” which only reinforced the vibe.
LYX was adorable as always; she just radiates cuteness even off-screen. Her crying was cute too. This was my first time watching HMH and I loved his acting — and his styling was incredible. His outfits, his hair, especially the white hair when he turned evil… perfection.
The OSTs were amazing too, and Liu Yuning really dominated this year yet again.
I rarely say this, but I don’t think any of the characters were particularly smart. Not even JBZ. He got lied to for so many episodes while the truth was right in front of him, and it made the plot feel frustrating rather than dramatic.
I think viewers who are new to xianxia might find this drama magical and romantic. But for people who have watched a lot of xianxia, this probably won’t hit the mark.
It’s disappointing when a drama with an 8.8 rating and overwhelming hype ends up feeling just okay. It makes you wonder whether the issue is your expectations or the show itself. I don’t think the drama is bad — it just fell far short of the level of masterpiece I was promised.The show had more talk than action for a Xinxia.
Would I recommend it?
Maybe — if you want to enjoy the main leads and ignore the messy plot, the continuous lies, and the lack of smart character writing. But if you’re looking for an addictive storyline, emotional payoff, or true heart-fluttering moments (which xianxia usually excels at), then this is probably not the one.
I genuinely wish I loved it more.

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A Story of Life

I started this show with a lot of curiosity and, honestly, a bit of fear. I’d seen so many people praising it without a single bad word, and I wondered if it would actually live up to the hype. Not only did it live up to it — it completely blew me away. When Life Gives You Tangerines is an absolute masterpiece.

I went in thinking, “I’m not the type of person who cries at dramas.” Then this show came along and proved me wrong. I don’t think I’ve ever cried this much watching anything. The emotions hit so deeply and naturally that you can’t help but break down with the characters.

What makes this drama special is that it defies categories. It’s not your typical K-drama, not a cliché family melodrama, not a simple coming-of-age story — it stands completely on its own. It weaves so many storylines together within each episode, and even though the timeline is a bit confusing at first, they handle the transitions between past and present brilliantly. Everything connects in the most beautiful way.

The production is breathtaking, but the real heart of the show is the acting. Every character feels alive. Every emotion feels raw. They brought so much depth to their roles that the story becomes almost too real — in the best possible way.

This show is a wake-up call. It reminds us of our parents’ sacrifices, the dreams they put aside for us, the silent battles they fight, and the love they give without expecting anything in return. It’s a story about life, its cycles, its heartbreak, its beauty, and the people who shape us.

I’ve seen people criticize certain characters, but that’s the point — they’re real. This isn’t a fantasy or a polished entertainment piece. It’s life. Life with flaws, mistakes, failures, and imperfect people trying their best.

One of the most beautiful moments for me was when the father told her, “If you can’t do it, just run back.” That line shattered me. It captures the essence of the whole drama: no matter how hard life gets, you will always have a place to come home to.

I recommend this show to every human being — even if you don’t watch K-dramas, Asian dramas, or dramas at all. This is more than a show; it’s an experience, a reminder, and a reflection of our own lives.

I don’t think I’ve ever felt so connected to a story before, and I genuinely hope everyone gives it a chance. It’s absolutely beautiful, unforgettable, and worth every second.

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Pretty Boys and the Throne That No One Wanted

I honestly didn’t expect to love it. I adore CZY, but this was my first time seeing him in a historical drama, and I was nervous. I’ve always seen him as the adorable boy-next-door type, so I wasn’t sure if he could pull off a cold, ruthless, killer-like character. But he completely exceeded my expectations — he shined.

The show was so much more than I imagined. It’s a true enemies-to-lovers story — and I mean brutal. At one point, they were literally trying to kill each other. The emotional rollercoaster was intense, but that’s what made it so addictive.

SFG’s character really broke my heart. His journey was tragic — betrayed by everyone around him, and yet still so strong. I kept hoping his best friend wouldn’t betray him too, but alas. His fight scenes were stunning, especially those with the female lead. Their choreography together was breathtaking — fierce yet beautiful.

If I have one complaint, it’s the makeup. CZY looked too pretty at times — almost ethereal — and the heavy filters didn’t help. He doesn’t need them; he’s already gorgeous. I loved how this role broke him free from his “green flag” lover-boy image from Hidden Love. He showed so much range and emotion here.

As for the female lead, this was my first time seeing her, and I was impressed. She suits the general role perfectly — elegant yet commanding. She’s beautiful and talented, and her chemistry with CZY was amazing.

Their relationship was one of my favorite parts. There were no unnecessary misunderstandings, no tired “who saves who” tropes — they supported and saved each other equally. It was teamwork, not dependency, and it felt refreshingly mature.

Now, I’m not usually one to care about an age gap — my favorite show is The Double, and that one has a big one — but here, I did feel it a little. It’s not Li Qin’s fault at all; she nailed the general character so well. And it’s not on CZY either — he did an incredible job. The issue was really the makeup. They went too far with the “pretty boy” aesthetic, which made him look significantly younger than her.

Because of that, it sometimes felt like the directing and writing worked harder than the visuals to make the couple feel convincing. Thankfully, they both sold it completely through their acting and chemistry. I have zero hate toward either of them — they did amazing. But still, I think their connection shines more through the emotional storytelling and performances than through their visual pairing.

Visually, I didn’t find them the most compatible couple, but their acting and chemistry completely made up for it. Their love story felt natural, steady, and emotionally rich.


Now, the second leads — wow. His sister, Xiang, was a disaster of a person. She made mistake after mistake, and while I really wanted to hate her, I just couldn’t. Her relationship with the Emperor, though? Unexpectedly electric. He was a terrible man, a true villain — yet somehow their chemistry outshone even the main couple’s .Her chemistry with both second leads was too good. She was obsessive, messy, and blind — but at least she finally woke up and didn’t go as far as helping kill his brother.

And honestly? I find myself still looking up edits of her and the Emperor. I refuse to be sad over them because they were toxic to the core — but they did it so well that I genuinely can’t move on from them. Their chemistry was chaotic, dark, and addictive in the best way.

The actor who played the second lead deserves huge credit. I hated his character in The Princess Royal, but he’s so talented (and yes, stunning) that I couldn’t truly dislike him. He brought depth and charisma to every scene. I really hope he gets a proper main lead role soon — he deserves to be a green flag for once!

If there’s one thing I didn’t love, it’s the writing for some of the side characters. Many of them felt bipolar — switching from good to evil like flipping a switch. The princess, the second prince, the marquis — their arcs all felt rushed or inconsistent.

Also… the amnesia subplot. Why do writers keep using that? It didn’t last long, thankfully, but it felt unnecessary and tired.

Still, the story overall was compelling. The friendships between the male lead and his comrades were heartfelt, and the political intrigue kept me hooked through all 38 episodes.


And I have to mention the OSTs — they were absolutely incredible. Sa Dingding songs are on another level. Her voice captured the emotion of every scene so perfectly that it gave me chills.

Also, the fact that this was basically a Moonlight Mystic reunion — both in the cast and the OST — made it even more special. The nostalgia hit hard in the best way possible. It felt like everything came full circle, and it added a beautiful layer to the experience.

The ending could’ve used more time to breathe — it wrapped up a bit too fast for my liking. I would’ve loved a longer goodbye or even a special episode to give us closure. But even so, it ended beautifully and stayed true to its tone.

Fated Hearts is an intense, emotional, and visually stunning drama. It has heart, action, chemistry, and characters that linger in your mind long after it ends.

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Great Chemistry, Bad Writing

This show might be a hit for a lot of people… but it just wasn’t for me. It was so hyped, and I ended up having really mixed feelings. There were things I genuinely loved, and other things that completely turned me off.

First, the good: the chemistry was INSANE. Like seriously, the chemistry carried this show on its back. The romance hit, and the spicy scenes? Super well done. He Yu specifically… wow. He ate that role up. I honestly loved him so much and I’m excited to watch anything he does next. For me, he was the show.

I also really enjoyed the friendship aspect and the racing side of the drama. It gave major Fast & Furious vibes, and overall the concept had a lot of potential.

Honestly the whole story felt like a Wattpad dream: bad boy / darker male lead, super cute and spoiled girl, intense obsession-level romance, and lots of drama with “I love her but I can’t be with her” energy. The vibes were there.

BUT… the biggest issue for me was the writing and execution. It felt sloppy, messy, and sometimes just straight up dumb. There were so many noticeable mistakes and continuity errors that it kept pulling me out of the story. One second something is happening, the next second it’s like they forgot what they filmed.

Even the time jump didn’t make sense — the whole six-year jump was badly handled.

And don’t even get me started on the male lead’s injury… sometimes he’s walking, sometimes on crutches, sometimes in a wheelchair, sometimes totally fine. It was honestly confusing and inconsistent. And the way he disappeared for years just didn’t feel believable based on how quickly he recovered. It didn’t add up.

Now the part that really ruined it for me: the female lead. I have nothing against Esther, but I’m honestly tired of this same type of role for her. She can act — I liked her in My Journey to You when she had a more serious vibe — but here she was written as overly childish and spoiled, and it got annoying fast.

What bothered me most is that even after the six-year jump… she didn’t really grow. She stayed the same immature, cringe character and I just couldn’t connect with her. I get that cute/fluffy characters are popular in Chinese dramas, but for me it was way too much.

The only reason I kept going was because the male lead clearly loved her exactly as she was — spoiled and all — and that dynamic worked for him, which I respected. But as a viewer, I was just irritated half the time.

One more thing I actually loved: Drunk’s character. He was so interesting and I wish we saw more of him. I didn’t expect him to become friends with the male lead either, but that friendship ended up being one of the best parts of the show. I thought we were getting a love triangle, but nope — and honestly I’m glad, because it would’ve been messier than it already was.

Overall, this drama had potential, and the chemistry + romance were strong… but the plot and writing were just too weak for me. A lot of things happened too conveniently, and some storylines (like the mom) felt like a switch flipped overnight.

So yeah — if you’re watching for a fluffy Wattpad-style romance with racing vibes, strong chemistry and spicy scenes, you’ll probably enjoy it. But if you want something with a solid plot and good development… this is not it.

I can totally see why people love it, but for me personally? Not my cup of tea.

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Where Fantasy and Love Meet

I’m a sucker for shows that hook you from the very first moment, and even though I didn’t expect this one to do that, it absolutely did. I went in nervous because of the hype, especially with the sci-fi/fantasy + romance mix, but wow—this show was so worth it.

I wouldn’t fully call it sci-fi. The VR aspect at the start was honestly genius and a huge reason the show worked. Those VR episodes were stunning—the aesthetics, architecture, and vibes felt like a Republican-era fantasy blended into a modern drama. You really got two worlds at once. The VR outfits were gorgeous, the game concept was fun and well written, and the idea of escaping real life into another world was delivered perfectly. Every VR scene felt cinematic, like watching a movie.

Now the male lead—I’m so glad CXX is finally getting the recognition he deserves. He truly shined here. The small smiles, serious expressions, quirkiness, and shamelessness all worked perfectly. His broken character was portrayed beautifully, and honestly, he could pull off a psychopath role because of how well he conveys deep emotions. And the wardrobe? Insane. Runway-level looks, designer vibes, full model energy. Easily one of the best-styled male leads in a modern C-drama. Character-wise, he was a green flag with a revenge arc—passionate, layered, and very well written.

The female lead was one of my favorite LYX characters. She was mature but still had a youthful spirit, had a backbone, and went after what she wanted. I loved that she wasn’t the typical shy FL—she was confident, outgoing, and never backed away from him. Her cute moments never felt childish, and her emotional scenes, especially her crying, felt raw and real. Her character was genuinely well done.

The romance was one of the strongest parts of the show. Their chemistry was insane—natural, effortless, and believable. Their kissing and intimate scenes didn’t feel scripted at all, and I loved how the show fully invested in the couple. They didn’t shy away from closeness, and it made everything feel real. If you’re watching for romance, this absolutely delivers.

The second male lead surprised me a lot. I had such a love-hate relationship with him, but by the end I was really happy with how his story was redeemed. His character was clearly messed up, but the abuse and constant comparison from his father made it easy to understand why he turned out the way he did. He wasn’t a good guy, but he felt real regret, knew when to let go, and that made him feel human. A lot of this worked because of DX’s acting—if it weren’t for him, I don’t think I would’ve connected to the character as much. Plus the suits, the glasses, the charisma—he stole the spotlight more than once.

My favorite scenes were definitely the VR ones—they felt magical. The cinematography was dreamy, the production quality was high, and the OST fit perfectly. Everything looked beautiful.

As for complaints: I wish we had more VR scenes later on, the reveal could’ve been written better, and the FL’s outfits were hit or miss—especially compared to the ML’s flawless styling. And my biggest complaint: why only 28 episodes? I wanted more. I never got bored, even after they started dating.

Overall, this show is 100% worth the hype. I’d recommend it to anyone who loves romance with a fantasy twist. Beautiful characters, amazing chemistry, stunning cinematography, a great OST, and no dragging. Easily one of the best C-dramas of 2026 and such a strong start to the year—a show that really stays with you.

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Not Groundbreaking, But Warm

I’ll start with the first 10 episodes because honestly… they feel like a completely different show.

The early episodes weren’t bad, but they were setting up a totally different vibe than what the drama eventually becomes. At first, you barely even see the male lead, and the female lead comes off as someone hopelessly in love with a guy who treats her terribly—which made her feelings a bit questionable. That said, even in those first 8–10 episodes, there was something that kept pulling me in and making me want to continue, and I’m really glad I stuck with it.

The male lead’s character shift after the first 10 episodes was honestly wild. At the beginning, he’s extremely cold, robotic, and almost nonexistent emotionally. Then suddenly—after that hospital scene when she cries—his entire personality flips. He becomes warm, supportive, and genuinely kind. The change was drastic, but I actually loved it. I’m really glad they didn’t drag out his cold phase for too long.

For me, the absolute star of the show is ZJM. She was completely immersed in her character—it genuinely felt like she wasn’t acting at all. Everything about her felt natural, relaxed, and effortless, like she was the character. I’ve watched her before and already loved her, but this role really sold me even more. She did the character so much justice.

I especially loved her character arc: achieving her goals, moving forward, and standing up for herself. She never waited for someone else to defend her, and I really appreciated that. She wasn’t a damsel in distress, and while I do sometimes enjoy that trope, it wouldn’t have suited her character at all. Seeing her choose herself, stay on the right path, and finally succeed was so satisfying.

Also, can we talk about her styling? I loved how her outfits evolved with her life stages—college outfits when she was younger, more serious workwear when she started working, and then elegant, boss-level looks when she rose up. That detail was chef’s kiss.

As for Song Weilong, this wasn’t my favorite role of his. His acting was good, but not amazing—I’ve definitely seen better performances from him. At times, it felt like he was following the script more than fully embodying the character, and the female lead honestly overshadowed him. That said, he still did a solid job. I was excited to see him play a CEO since we hadn’t really gotten that before, but he definitely felt more like a support character for the female lead rather than the main focus.

I did appreciate the message in his storyline though—that you don’t have to give up, that there’s always another path, and that if you truly love something, you can find your way back to it. I was really hoping he’d return to being a doctor, but as long as he was happy and doing something meaningful, I was okay with it. His styling was nice too, though I do wish his suits were tailored better—they didn’t always fit him perfectly.

Romance-wise, this was a very soft, healthy love story. It’s not groundbreaking or something completely new, but it is realistic and comforting. Just two people falling in love in a healthy, supportive way. The show focuses way more on them getting together than on their relationship after they’re together. Once they’re a couple, it’s very calm, mundane, and unproblematic—which honestly was refreshing.

One thing I really loved—and honestly don’t see often—was that this is one of the first shows I’ve watched where both leads are filthy rich. Like, actually rich-rich. They both own companies, they’re both successful, and the “rich couple” dynamic was on another level. What made it even better was that they were complete equals. There was no power imbalance, no one depending on the other financially, and no ego about it. Their wealth wasn’t their personality either—they were both humble, grounded, and normal despite having everything. I loved how the show treated richness as just a background detail rather than a defining trait, and it made their relationship feel even healthier.

There’s no dramatic push-and-pull or heavy tension. He likes her, he pursues her, they fall in love, and then… they continue living their lives together. For people who want a non-toxic, no-drama, lovey-dovey romance, this is perfect. I also loved the contrast between her first love—someone who never supported her—and the male lead, who always stood by her side. He was such a green flag.

The second male lead surprised me. I wanted to hate him, but the actor was handsome and carried the sadness really well. That said, he was sad for way too long, and his obsession with her after losing her got annoying. Still, every time the main couple casually flexed their relationship in front of him, I won’t lie—I enjoyed it way too much.

I do think the show was too long. 36 episodes felt unnecessary. There was also a heavy focus on the solar panel industry and work-related details, and honestly… I didn’t find that interesting. I get that they were trying to highlight the importance of renewable energy, but the technical details pulled me out of the story more than once. The CGI/green screen moments were also pretty bad and very distracting.

One of my favorite side characters was the cousin—he was fun, warm, and had great chemistry with the female lead. Every time he was on screen, I enjoyed it.

Visually, I loved how the drama showcased beautiful places around China. The scenery was stunning. That said, the story is supposedly set around 2013, and nothing about it actually felt like 2013. I understand why they did it for the solar panel storyline, but they could’ve leaned more into the time period with styling and details.

What really elevated the show for me was the final episode. It was beautifully done. Everything was wrapped up properly, and instead of unnecessary drama, we got to see them just… living life together as a family. Since the drama focused more on them getting together than being together, that last episode felt like a reward—and it was honestly one of the best finales I’ve seen in a while.

Overall, I think this is a drama people should go into knowing what they’re getting. It’s not overhyped, but it’s also not groundbreaking. If you’ve watched a lot of modern dramas, you’ve probably seen better—but this one is still nice. It’s very work-focused, more than I personally prefer, but if you’re looking for a healthy, low-drama, cozy romance where not much happens and everyone just vibes, this show might be for you.

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The Scarifies of Love

After finishing the last episode, I genuinely felt like standing up and giving this show a full standing ovation. Twelve Letters completely blew me away. I had heard a lot of good things going in, but nothing prepared me for what it actually delivered.

First of all, I did not expect the fantasy element at all—and I loved that surprise. This drama blends so many genres so seamlessly: romance, family, crime, mystery, and fantasy. You’re constantly curious, constantly emotionally invested. It’s dark, yes, but beautifully so. If I had to give it a title, it would be “I sacrifice my life for yours.” That’s the heart of this story.

At its core, this is a tragic but incredibly beautiful love story. The love that grows through hardship, pain, and sacrifice feels deeper than a typical romance. They don’t just fall in love—they heal each other’s wounds. The pacing was perfect; nothing felt rushed or dragged. Every element got exactly the screen time it needed.

Now, the acting—wow. Solid, powerful performances from both leads. I already loved Zhou Yiran, but this role completely changed how I see him. After When I Fly Towards You, he was known as the ultimate green-flag good boy, but with Reborn and now Twelve Letters, he’s breaking out of that mold—and excelling. Honestly, watching him here made me feel like he was wasted in calmer roles before. This performance was heartbreaking, layered, and unforgettable. He wasn’t a perfect green flag, but he loved the way a green flag would—in his own broken, self-sacrificing way. His choice to fake his death, to stay away even after prison so he wouldn’t ruin her life… that destroyed me. He suffered silently for years just so she could be happy.

As for the female lead—this year really proved her range. From her lighter, fluffier roles earlier on to this dark, complex character, the growth is obvious. Some moments were good, but certain scenes—especially the confrontations involving her father—were outstanding. Her acting there was raw and powerful, and I’m genuinely excited to see where she goes next year.

Their chemistry was beautiful. Natural. Real. This wasn’t a soft romance—it was a romance born from darkness, from shared trauma and survival. That made it deeper, heavier, and more meaningful. He protected her because she became his family when he had none. She protected him just as fiercely. It was mutual sacrifice, and that’s what made it so special.

Story-wise, I loved the back-and-forth structure. Before even getting into the fantasy aspect, their core story already had me emotionally wrecked. The scenes of her visiting his grave every year, and him doing the same… and then finally reuniting in the afterlife—I absolutely bawled. That reunion scene broke me in the best way.

The fantasy element surprised me the most. The letters weren’t the center of the story, but they carried so much mystery. You keep questioning: are they changing the past? Or just telling and already done sorty? Until the very last moment, you hold onto hope that everything will change—and when it finally does, it’s incredibly satisfying.

The storyline involving the son and daughter was interesting too. I didn’t feel they needed more focus; they were a means to tell the story, not the focal point—and that worked. It was sad that the daughter lost her father, but I think the son lived on cause maybe he was adopted or she wasn't her son. In all cases I will move on believing fate will reunite them.

Every supporting character did an incredible job—especially the security guard, who honestly became one of my favorites. And that ending… the final letter was so poetic, so heartfelt. A perfect ending for a drama called Twelve Letters.

I also loved how the show flipped the usual sacrifice trope. We often see parents sacrificing for their children—but here, seeing a child sacrifice for a parent hit differently. The entire drama is built on sacrifice, and it commits to that theme fully.

And the OST—absolutely stunning. Perfectly tailored to the story, setting the tone and amplifying every emotion. One of the best OST integrations I’ve seen.

I can confidently say this is one of the best dramas of 2025. It’s dark, emotional, beautifully made, and short enough to stay tight and impactful. The balance between darkness and light was just right. It’s a heavy emotional ride—but 100% worth it.

So beautiful. So painful. So unforgettable.

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Came for Gong Jun, Stayed for the Fight Scenes

I went into Blood River knowing nothing except that it starred Gong Jun and had martial arts, and I ended up loving it way more than expected. The drama is pure entertainment — the fighting scenes, CGI, choreography, and music were so good that they carried the entire show. Even without romance, it would still be fun to watch.

The styling was another highlight. Everyone looked incredible — subtle makeup, great hair, gorgeous fairy-like looks for the girls, and strong, dominant outfits for the men. SMY’s red outfit and his white-and-red demonic look were absolutely stunning.

The friendship between SMY and SCH was beautiful and honestly felt like the real emotional core of the show. I kept waiting for a betrayal, but thankfully it never happened. Their bond was one of my favorite parts.

Overall, Blood River feels more like a visually entertaining drama than a deep, plot-driven one. The first half was dark and focused, but the second half became confusing with too many characters and clans. It’s also clearly incomplete, setting up a Season 2 without resolving the main storyline, but I’ll definitely continue watching.

As a Gong Jun fan, he was a big reason I started the drama. He had some fantastic emotional moments — especially the crying scene — though in many scenes he felt a bit stiff. His fight scenes, however, were flawless.

My biggest confusion was Xiao Ran being labeled as the female lead. I assumed she was paired with Gong Jun, so I kept waiting for something to happen between them, but she barely appeared and had almost no impact on the story. It felt unfair when other supporting characters, especially Hua Sen, were far more important.

Because of that confusion, I couldn’t connect to WHH’s romance with SMY at all. And the power levels in the drama made no sense — every “strong” character kept getting defeated by someone even stronger, except SMY and SCH, who were the only ones who felt consistently powerful.

In the end, Blood River is a great pick for anyone who loves Wuxia, martial arts, and strong visuals. The story can get tangled, but as pure entertainment, it’s extremely enjoyable and worth continuing into Season 2.

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Excelled because of WY AND XZ

I’ve been wanting to watch this drama for the longest time, but I was honestly scared to start because of the hype. The hype around The Untamed is absolutely insane, so I really wanted to understand what everyone was talking about. After finally watching it… I have very mixed feelings. It is an incredible drama and I genuinely enjoyed it, but I also had a lot of problems with it.
Let me start with the main issue for me: the production. I’m watching it eight years after it aired, and you can definitely feel that. The cinematography and the overall production quality felt outdated to me, and at times it even looked a bit lazy. If I had watched it back in 2019, maybe I would’ve felt differently, but watching it now in 2025, I constantly felt like the production kept pulling me out of the story.
The fighting scenes weren’t great — you could see the choreography too clearly. And the zombies… I could not take them seriously. The makeup was just not it, and it made it so hard for me to feel anything during those scenes.
Costumes, though, were really nice. Especially WWX — everything about his look was perfect: hair, styling, overall vibe. As for Lan Zhan, Wang Yibo already has a long face and the forehead ornament just made it look even longer. It wasn’t my favorite look on him, but he still served, so I let it slide.
I also think the hype worked against me. It was overwhelming. I feel like a huge part of why people are obsessed with this show comes from those who already read the novel and were attached to the characters long before watching the drama. Because I didn’t read the novel, it took me a long time to get attached. I don’t think I truly “got” the hype until I was more than 20 episodes in — which is a long time to wait.
Another personal thing: I’m not the biggest fan of purely platonic relationships — they don’t usually work for me — even though the chemistry was definitely there. So that was a small minus for me too.
As for acting, some performances weren’t strong. Mainly the villains. A lot of the actors were new, and you could feel it. I don’t hate any of them, but some scenes just didn’t land. Also, none of the villains were surprising or satisfying. I kept waiting for a shocking reveal after hearing everyone talk about it… but only the final reveal did anything for me, and even that was mild.
People always say The Untamed is easy to follow. For me, it was not. It’s full of characters, timelines, narrations, flashbacks — it took effort to stay on track. But surprisingly, the 50-episode length felt perfect. It didn’t feel too long for what it wanted to do.
The story itself is actually very good. The execution is where it struggled a bit.
Once the male leads “clicked,” I really enjoyed every moment between them, whether you see it as bromance or BL or just deep bond — it worked. The brotherhood themes were beautiful, and a lot of the relationships in the show were genuinely touching. The music was also amazing.
And I completely understand why people rewatch it. The first time is confusing because of the plot, but on rewatches you focus more on the emotions and the characters.
Do I think it’s worth watching? Yes.
Do I think it’s overhyped? Not necessarily — I think it was perfectly hyped for 2019. Watching it now in 2025, the excitement isn’t the same, but I can still see why it was a cultural moment.
What I wish (even though it’s impossible because of the drama behind the show) is a newer version — remade with today’s budget, effects, and production quality. The story deserves it, and the leads would shine even more in a better visual environment.
Despite everything, I did enjoy it. It was entertaining, fun, emotional in many moments, and definitely something I’m glad I watched.

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More Than Just Romance

This drama delivers an excellent blend of romance, crime, and suspense. The romantic storyline was well-balanced and never overshadowed the main plot, which kept the show gripping from start to finish. While some of the criminals were fairly easy to identify due to the filming choices, the final case involving Yan Ze was a genuine plot twist that completely surprised me.

I particularly appreciated how the story came full circle with the society organization, tying all the loose ends together in a satisfying way. The writing was strong overall, and the performances by the cast were outstanding. That said, I did feel the female lead was written a little too perfectly—she solved every problem with ease, leaving little tension in her arc. Still, ARP’s performance stood out to me, and it was refreshing to see him take on this kind of role. I truly hope to see him in similar characters in the future.

One of the aspects I really liked was the moral resolution: every character who did wrong faced consequences, which made the story feel complete and just. The pacing was consistent, and the touches of romance added warmth without taking away from the crime-driven narrative. Unlike many recent shows with “enemies-to-lovers” tropes, this drama offered a straightforward, natural love story that unfolded smoothly. It was a refreshing change of pace.

Overall, this is a very well-executed C-drama that I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys detective mysteries with suspenseful twists. With its balanced storytelling, strong acting, and satisfying conclusion, it’s a must-watch for fans of the genre.

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A Gripping C-Drama with Strong Characters but a Weak Ending

This is a very good drama overall. It started off really strong, especially with the FL, who was portrayed as extremely smart and calculating—I loved that about her. The ML was also refreshing; he wasn’t your typical “green flag” or “red flag” ML, but rather a morally gray character. For once, he was genuinely mean, cruel, and not secretly soft on the inside, which I found unique and engaging.

I really enjoyed how their story developed, but I didn’t like the memory loss plotline. It felt like such a cliché at this point, and what disappointed me most was how it made the FL seem less intelligent. She started off sharp and calculating, which I loved, but that quality faded as the series went on.

The poison storyline was another weak point for me. It felt overused and lazy, especially because the same actor played a role with a similar plot in Love Me, Kill Me. The fact that the ML took the poison himself felt unnecessary.

As for the ending, I found it disappointing. It wasn’t terrible, but it could have been so much better. I would’ve loved to see the political storylines tied up more neatly—like the throne being secured, the two countries forming an alliance, and the FL and ML’s future life together more clearly resolved. Even the bodyguard’s storyline felt like it needed more development.

That said, the drama is still a solid C-drama with an intense, full plotline and excellent acting from all the cast members. I especially loved the political intrigue, the fight for the throne, and the clever maneuvering of characters. Despite its flaws, it’s definitely worth watching.

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I Came for the Romance, Stayed for the Comedy

I honestly didn’t expect this show to be so funny, I went in thinking it would be more serious, but Part 1 is genuinely entertaining and humorous, and it’s such a good build-up season for what’s coming in Part 2.
Zhao Lusi is literally the queen of this drama. Part 1 feels like it’s mainly building Niao Niao’s story, and I didn’t mind that at all because she carried so hard. Even without heavy romance, she was still the most interesting part of the show. But she’s also funny and chaotic in a way that makes the show fun to watch. She is shameless and selfish. An unperfect character and I loved that.
I also love the dad — he might be my favorite character. And the brothers too, especially the sibling dynamic, but I really wish we got more interactions between them. Hopefully Part 2 gives us more of that. The grandmother is funny but sometimes annoying when she is greedy. But she adds a nice laugh to the show.
My favorite character overall though is the Emperor. He’s honestly one of the best costume drama emperors ever — so fun, so warm, and I love his relationship with Lin Buyi. It’s so unserious and cute.
Now about A’Yao and Niao Niao: I really liked the way they broke up. It was the best scenario. They were cute together and Lucy has chemistry with everyone so I didn’t mind them, but I didn’t want their breakup to become toxic. I’m so happy it ended with mutual understanding and respect, without them hating each other or him turning into a villain. She didn’t love him romantically, he loved her, and their relationship felt more like a close best-friends / older brother vibe anyway.
And honestly, Niao Niao wouldn’t work with A’Yao long-term — she’d always be protecting him while his family mistreats her, and the freedom she wants wouldn’t be there. She also wouldn’t work with Yuan Shen. I don’t hate him, but he’s too blunt and always highlights her flaws, even if he loves her. Ling Buyi is the right choice because he accepts her flaws and loves her anyway. He’ll protect her, and he doesn’t have a family that would control her, so she actually gets the freedom she wants. They’re both broken and unloved too, so it makes sense that they’ll heal and learn together.
Romance-wise, I feel like Part 1 is them learning how to love themselves first. Ling Buyi annoyed me at the start because he doesn’t even properly ask her if they want to get married. I did like how obsessed he was with her from the start, he knew he finally found his equal. People would say he is too dominating and controlling but he grew up without love, and she did too. They’re both basically kids figuring it out.
The most annoying part of the show for me was the mom. I kept trying to give her the benefit of the doubt, but she’s genuinely one of the most irritating drama mothers ever. She constantly downgrades her daughter and it’s exhausting. I’m really looking forward to Niao Niao proving her wrong.
Also the girls in this drama annoyed me so much… I hate when girls bring other girls down, and there’s a LOT of that. All of them were the spitting image of their horrible mothers. Plus all of them being obsessed with Ling Buyi is so annoying because he’s literally cold and cruel to them but blame it on NN.
Overall, Part 1 is more family-focused and it’s a great foundation for Part 2. Even with the lack of romance, the scenes between Niao Niao and Ling Buyi still felt tense and electric, and I loved that. Now I just need Part 2 because I know it’s about to go crazy.

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The only form of amnesia acceptable

This show was honestly something different from all the other historical dramas I’ve watched. It’s the first time I’ve seen a Chinese historical drama that blends fantasy elements so well — and I loved that. The fantasy aspect wasn’t the main focus, but you could definitely feel that touch of the immortal realm throughout the story. It added depth without overpowering the main plot, which I really appreciated. The balance between romance, story, and a hint of the supernatural was just perfect.

If you like fantasy elements but still love that traditional historical xianxia vibe, this drama is such a good mix of both.

Now let’s talk about the star of the show — Cheng Lei’s acting. Honestly, he was phenomenal. The way he portrayed three completely different characters, each with distinct personalities, was beyond impressive. I don’t know how someone can be that talented! His performance as Prince Annan was especially to die for. Even though the character was dark and cold after losing his memories, I still loved him. He played that cruel yet captivating prince so well.

And don’t even get me started on him as the Man in Black. Every time he appeared on screen, I was screaming — he looked incredible. The costume, the blue paint, the face mask, the white hair — everything was just perfect. The transformation scenes reminded me of Moon Knight suiting up, and it was just so good. Plus, every time Liu Yuning’s OST played when he appeared, it gave me chills. The song fit those scenes perfectly.

Honestly, I don’t think the show would have worked as well with anyone else in the lead. Cheng Lei’s facial expressions and eye acting were next-level — his eyes alone can tell a whole story. His face card truly never declines.

I was a bit nervous to start Shadow Love after watching Legend of the Female General because I adored that drama, and I wasn’t over that couple yet 😭. But even though I missed them, this new pairing was gentle and nice. The chemistry between the leads was natural — they suited each other.

Now, about Song Yi’s character: I wasn’t sure if I could see her as a general because she’s so cute and feminine. She’s absolutely gorgeous and her acting is excellent — even though she felt a bit too gentle for the “general” type, she made it her own.

The storyline overall was smooth. There were a few dragging moments in the middle, but the last ten episodes completely redeemed everything. When Cheng Lei’s character lost his memories and became the prince again, the show regained that excitement. I was also thrilled that the Man in Black returned in the finale — those scenes gave me life.

The ending was perfect. It didn’t feel rushed, and every character’s arc wrapped up beautifully. Everyone got the closure they deserved, and we got our happy ending. I love when a show takes the time to finish things properly.

One thing I didn’t like, though, was the Su Muyang’a character. He reminded me so much of the guy from Kill Me, Love Me — almost the same storyline! At least this time he redeemed himself somewhat. Still, the actor is so good (and his face card = chef’s kiss), so I hope he gets roles where he can truly shine instead of always being the villain.

For once, I didn’t even mind the amnesia plot! Usually I hate that trope, but here it made sense and added layers to the story. Each time he lost his memory, he became a completely new and fascinating character, which was honestly amazing.

Overall, Shadow Love blew me away, especially in the last ten episodes. The pacing, the writing, the acting — everything came together perfectly. It’s rare to see a historical fantasy drama wrap up so strongly instead of dragging or rushing at the end.

If you’re into a blend of romance, war, fantasy, and stunning visuals, with powerful acting and emotional depth — this drama is for you.

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