Crlon7

I have mixed feelings about this drama. While the central themes of love, sacrifice, forgiveness, redemption, and reconciliation are commendable, there is a lingering sense of restraint. Despite the underlying strained circumstances, unresolved issues, and deep misunderstandings, the narrative had the potential to be a highly charged drama filled with angst, tension, and simmering emotions ready to boil over at every turn. Yet, everything is subdued and toned down, resulting in a disconnect between the build-up and the actual events, which can leave viewers feeling empty. Although the series does not delve deeply into the emotional turmoil of its characters, it nevertheless manages to capture a beautiful, mature love that has survived the test of time.

This was my first time watching Quin Lan in a drama, and while I found her visually stunning, her acting failed to impress me. Throughout the drama, she seemed to repress heightened emotions, which made me question whether this was a directorial choice or a reflection of how her character, Tan Si Ting, was written. Tan Si Ting appeared highly contradictory, exhibiting traits of a dual personality, unlike the other characters who remained consistent. She is portrayed as a strong, independent, and highly esteemed ballerina with a composed exterior, but her actions often contradict this image, particularly in her avoidance of emotional confrontations. Her initial interactions with Feng Rui after returning home seem aloof, even going so far as to accompany him and his girlfriend to pick out a wedding dress and venue. This raises questions about the realism of her actions, especially if she still harbors feelings for her ex. In professional settings, when handling conflict with colleagues, Tan Si Ting displays strength and determination, yet her soft, whispery, girl-like voice contrasts sharply with her persona. When she discovers that her son, Feng Le Xuan, is alive and learns of the years of deception, the moment that could have showcased raw emotional breakdown is instead handled with subdued tears rather than a full display of turmoil. Quin Lan missed the opportunity to showcase dramatic acting range.

The drama reveals that Tan Si Ting suffered from depression in her youth, and the dramatic reveal of her son's existence should have been a catalyst for turbulent emotions, had the character remained true to her established traits. After reuniting with Feng Rui, Tan Si Ting continually delays telling their son the truth, waiting for an ideal moment, even as she spends time reconnecting with Feng Rui. Her reasoning is a fear that Feng Le Xuan will reject her, despite knowing that he likes her and sees her as a confidant. Feng Le Xuan is depicted as thoughtful and mature, making Tan Si Ting’s delay in revealing the truth seem unnecessary. The eventual reveal, when Feng Le Xuan discovers the truth on his own and asks his father about it, is presented in a casual, offhand manner, lacking any emotional tension. Another puzzling moment occurs when Tan Si Ting cancels a family meal with Feng Rui and their son after being smeared by online rumors, opting to avoid her son. This results in Feng Le Xuan finding out the truth from other kids at school, further diminishing the emotional impact of the revelation.

For me, the two redeeming characters were Feng Rui, played by Wallace Chung, and Feng Le Xuan, portrayed by the exceptionally talented young actor Wang Hao Ze. Wallace Chung’s portrayal of Feng Rui stands out for its calm maturity and devotion as a father. He subtly conveys the emotions of unresolved yearning and bitterness. Though initially frustrated and dismissive toward Tan Si Ting due to past misunderstandings, Feng Rui takes the initiative to confront his suppressed feelings, asking her if she regrets leaving him and their son. This moment paves the way for clarifying misunderstandings between them.
This drama unfolds slowly and requires patience, which I admittedly lacked at the time of watching. The subplots that deviated from the main couple did not capture my interest, leading me to skip those scenes. Nonetheless, the drama remains decent overall, featuring good cinematography, musical scores, and solid acting.