An engaging watch & life lessons
I didn't expect to be so drawn into this drama. It gradually captivated me, thanks in part to the chemistry between the two leads and the engaging side stories of the FL's friends.Having abandoned Only for Love due to its superficial, childish storyline, As Beautiful As You is a much more sophisticated exploration of the business world and romantic relationships. The ML's deep, insightful thoughts offer valuable life lessons as he learns to open his guarded heart to love. It's not that he was incapable of love, but rather that his approach was more business-oriented and practical than the FL's. The drama effectively portrays the challenges of startups and the journey of two individuals discovering love.
The author's storytelling is well-crafted, although I must admit that some of the director's choices, such as unnecessary highway and building shots and questionable editing transitions, were distracting. Nonetheless, this is a drama definitely worth watching
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This review may contain spoilers
A Must Watch For the Story, the Action scenes, acting and CGI.
WARNING- SPOILERS AHEAD. I feel very compelled to write a review for this drama, which has completely taken me by surprise, as I am not a fan of either lead. Previously, I did not have a great impression of Deng Wei, as two of the characters he played (in The Till the End of the Moon and Lost You Forever) did not give him the opportunity to showcase his range, or due to bad editing, made his characters unlikable.But "Love of the Divine Tree" is different, and the story deeply moved me. It’s one of the xianxia dramas I would place in my top 5 xianxia genre list, alongside Love and Redemption, Love Between Fairy and Devil, Ashes of Love, and Eternal Love. It’s an emotional odyssey that leaves an indelible mark on your soul.
From the very first episode, it captivates with its tight, purposeful storytelling. There’s a clear message the script, the director, and the story want to convey—it’s not just another love story. It refuses to waste a single moment on unnecessary filler scenes or aimless montages (unlike some dramas that linger on characters walking around wistfully, cough Immortal Samsara cough). Every scene, every line of dialogue, and every interaction serves a purpose, weaving together a narrative that is as compelling as it is profound.
What truly sets this drama apart is its message of empowerment: you can create your own destiny. It teaches us that fate does not have to define our lives. Instead, we have the power to defy it, change it, and live the life we truly want. This theme resonates deeply throughout the story, as the characters constantly challenge their predetermined paths and fight for the futures they desire.
At the heart of the drama is the master-disciple relationship between the leads, which is anything but one-dimensional. It’s a dynamic interplay of roles that constantly evolves, with power and vulnerability shifting between them in a way that feels authentic and deeply moving. The relationship isn’t just about one person guiding the other; it’s a two-way street of growth, sacrifice, and mutual understanding. The role reversals are executed flawlessly, making their bond one of the most nuanced and emotionally resonant I’ve ever seen in a drama.
The acting in this drama is nothing short of extraordinary. Deng Wei, in particular, delivers a standout performance. His character, Su Yi Shui, is a man burdened by guilt and haunted by the past. He secretly protects his sifu (master) in every possible way, yet he maintains a cool exterior, refusing to betray his emotions. His love for her is undeniable, but he cannot afford to let her get close to him again in this lifetime. The guilt of her death in their previous life consumes him. Deng Wei portrays this internal conflict with such depth and subtlety that you can feel the weight of his guilt, his longing, and his quiet resolve to protect her at all costs. It’s a performance that stays with you long after the screen fades to black. He is not a perfect person and doesn’t mind resorting to unconventional ways to get what he wants.
And then there’s Julia Xiang, who shines brilliantly in her dual roles as the badass Mu Qing Ge and the innocent, loving Xue Ran Ran. She effortlessly embodies both characters, making it abundantly clear that they are two sides of the same coin—Mu Qing Ge being the hardened, experienced version of Xue Ran Ran, shaped by the trials of the world. Her portrayal is so nuanced that you can see the echoes of Xue Ran Ran in Mu Qing Ge’s strength and the shadow of Mu Qing Ge in Xue Ran Ran’s innocence. What I love most is that the female lead is never a damsel in distress. Even in her rebirth as Xue Ran Ran, she remains bright, smart, and fiercely independent. Throughout the drama, she is never dumbed down to let the male lead rescue her. Instead, she stands as his equal—strong, capable, and able to hold her own. It’s a refreshing and empowering portrayal that adds depth to her character and their relationship.
The drama is filled with memorable scenes that tug at your heartstrings and linger in your mind. One such moment is the beautiful battle in the river between a young Su Yi Shui and Mu Qing Ge. The choreography is exquisite, and the scene is as visually stunning as it is poignant. Another unforgettable moment is when Su Yi Shui returns to the Western Sect, and Mu Qing Ge orders the lanterns to be left on so her "prideful" disciple can find his way home and feel like he belongs. It’s a small gesture, but it speaks volumes about their bond and her unwavering care for him. This act later becomes a symbol of their love and the key to breaking through Yi Shui’s guilt-ridden belief that he caused the death of his sifu.
Then there’s the heart-wrenching scene where Mu Qing Ge sacrifices herself, and Su Yi Shui breaks down in tears, consumed by regret and guilt. It’s a raw, emotional moment that showcases the weight of his remorse. But perhaps the most powerful scene is when Mu Qing Ge attempts to purify the demon lord possessing Su Yi Shui. Just as the demon lord is about to take complete control, Su Yi Shui’s consciousness fights back, overcoming the possession through sheer willpower. Even after the demon lord is exorcised, Su Yi Shui chooses to destroy his golden core, ensuring that he ends his own life so he can never be used as a pawn to hurt his beloved again. This act of ultimate sacrifice lays bare the depth of his love for her. It’s a moment that is both devastating and profoundly moving.
And who could forget the wedding scene? It’s a moment of pure joy and beauty, reminiscent of the iconic wedding in Love and Redemption. The happiness radiating from the couple is palpable, and it’s a well-deserved reward for everything they’ve endured. The scene also includes the playful, foxy thoughts Yi Shui harbors about their wedding night, adding a touch of lightness to their journey.
What I love most about this drama is how it balances emotional depth with action and intrigue. It’s a story about love—love that is selfless, transformative, and deeply human.
In a sea of dramas that often rely on clichés and filler content, "Love of the Divine Tree" stands out as a shining example of what storytelling can achieve when it’s done with heart, passion, and a deep understanding of its characters. If you’re looking for a drama that will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on life’s lessons, "Love of the Divine Tree" is an absolute must-watch. It’s a masterpiece that deserves all the praise and more.
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