ElofOz

Thank you so much for this detailed response. I am relatively new to cdramas to I definitely have a catalogue of classics to go through. I noticed Golden Hairpin in the MDL listing - that one piqued my interest. I totally agree though, it ultimately depends on the plot/story. Unfortunately, that comes first for me. If I'm not gripped by the journey the characters are on, no amount of great directing or beautiful cinematography will keep me watching.
At least for now I will relish watching The First Jasmine! I actually think I will need to watch it multiple times over, to fully appreciate all of the meticulous details and recurring imagery.

A total feast. That haunting scene in courtyard with the grandma.... I haven't enjoyed such spine-tingling stuff with a cdrama since THAT scene in Love Like the Galaxy (iykyk).
Re the director - I haven't seen many of her other dramas, strangely. Is there one you would highly recommend for someone who is loving The First Jasmine?
I am already dreading when this series comes to an end :(

Same! It is gripping. And so perfectly cast. I wasn't a Bai Lu fan before (always found her a bit meh), and mainly started this for Ryan Cheng and because nothing else was keeping me fixed (ahem, Ashes to Crown). But, my God, she has been a revelation. She is absolutely owning all the different layers of Ye Li to perfection. No less than the leads in North by Northwest or Vertigo.
Yes - don't get me started on the OST! I can't track down the instrumental background music sadly. I hope they make it available on Spotify soon.

YES! I thought this from the first episode. From the ferocious monkeys to the alter egos and imaginary friends... It's incredible. It's got this slightly gothic air to it too. I'm loving it.

Fantastic! Thanks for the head's up!

This looks good! Anxiously waiting for subtitles.