Laramd13

Finance and politics are confusing to understand sometimes. In Episode 25 it was around year 1937 to 1945 when Sino Japanese war happened. The Chinese we're trying to stop and push away the Japanese from invading/occupying their country. After the war was over, the Chinese Nationalist government/ Koumintang (KMT) along with Central Bank offered the construction bill (similar to what RouLai ask about War Bonds).
War Bonds is like an IOU from the government. Common people will buy hoping it will increase in value in the future, something they can cash out later. The money the government gets these money to fund the war (supplies to help build the army).
In Episode 26 the Construction Bill was introduced in the drama, it was offered for people to buy like stocks. It is a bit of a gamble. You buy it a low price, hoping it will increase and you can gain money when you sell it. But there is a chance of losing money if the value decreases instead of increase.
The Central Bank and the rich/elite showed that they bought stocks for the construction bill (to help fund and rebuild the infrastructure after war). It was a sort of propaganda to make the common people buy stocks for the construction bill.

The other elite groups with Mr. Yu, Kang, and Song knew common people will buy into, if there is a chance of getting rich. The elites sold their shares for the construction bill and many common people bought a lot of it because they see the value going up.

A month after, the elites new the value was going down while the common people did not. Mr. Song told Shen Tunan to sell all the Construction Bill stocks before the value goes down further. Sadly those who bought a lot of stocks lost all their money and did not gain anything when the value kept going down.

Some common people like Ms. Zhou who mortgage (borrowed money from the bank in exchange for the title of one's property)her home and Wen who borrowed money in order to buy more stocks lost lots of money. While the elites/banks owners/debt collectors gain a lot from what others were willing to spend. There is chance of winning more if you gamble more, but definitely unwise to gamble all you have or money you don't have. Only gamble what you can afford and always leave extra in savings. It is best to choose stocks that will be steady, that you know will increase overtime. Some have gone to jail for fraud because of inside trading though. Those who can invest in stocks usually understands the market very well and have enough/extra money to take some risks.

Gambling is similar to an addiction like when someone is addicted to drugs like opioid epidemic.
It is true that is targeted towards middle class or poor people, then some corrupt people on top make money out of their tragedy. I think some places try vote proposition/laws that prevent easy access to online gaming/drugs. Education, self-awareness, self restraint is important in prevention. There are some places with corrupt officials/police and it is hard to take down if it gets covered up by those on top. It probably takes a community, change of leadership, some powerful allies, and new laws to
stop it. But not an easy thing to do, it may take time to get such justice. Taking down the main corrupt leader is very important, because those below are sometimes forced to follow that leader, then serious consequences have to be put in place.

I glad Wen did say something, trying to dissuade Ms. Zhou and asking for Rou Ali's advice. But it sad to fall into the crowd, there are moments when one has to be strong enough to goes against the wave, or say "No," to peer pressure before it is too late.
When Wen said to Rou Lai " You are a sheep among the wolves, you need to leave before it is too late." It was a dire warning, Wen followed the crowd and lost a lot. He is warning Rou Lai to not be a sheep and fall into the wolves trap.
Sometimes the right path can be a lonely one but you will survive, but for many it hard to choose.
Sure we can blame the villains who caused many to go bankrupt, but we also accept the choices we make and hopefully warn others to not make the same. The old man did say to them, "look how became poor, I was too greedy in the past." But sadly ignored him and his warning.

That is definitely interesting, that the least corrupt countries are a safe haven for corrupt officials. We live in an imperfect world and many of us have different faith/belief depending on what we went through. I think no matter where one lives, there are some form of corruption that exists, it probably depends on how each person is affected by it or how much it can be seen by the public. I love each input and discussion that each person has, I think it is not so much about one particular party over the other, because ideology and belief systems can change over time but it is more about who are in leadership positions, what they believe, what they are doing, and how common people are affected by their decision makings.
The common people always have to keep in mind if the leaders of the country are saying, do they say what they mean or are being hypocritical, saying one thing and meaning another. Sometimes people vote those who gives false promises/ said something too good to be true. I think people have fought for different beliefs and government systems for years. It really depends on the people of that country what kind of system they want, what freedoms they want for their own country.

Episodes 25 and 26 were heartbreaking episodes. It seems Wei Rou Lai is getting more disappointed in his mentor Shen Tunan. Even though Shen Tunan had good intentions in wanting to revitalize his country after fending off the Japanese invasion, his superiors in the KMT nationalist government were ruining it with their own selfish greed.
The common people sacrificed a lot during the Japanese war, but instead of a reward, they had been manipulated and tricked into supporting the KMT government. Shen Tunan refused to reveal the real culprit, which were the Song family/KMT government, because he is afraid the common people will lose trust in their government officials/leaders.

Mr. Song, Mr. Kang, Mr. Yu, and the rest of the elites, bankers, and leaders of the KMT think they can dupe the common people and get rich through their scam and blame it on Shen Tunan. But money leaves a trail and if and when the truth is revealed, the populace will lose trust in their KMT government officials/leaders. Especially that the Communist Party already supports many of the poorer populace, the KMT supporters causing the collapse of the bank, stealing/scamming from the common people to a point they many will become impoverished, it will cause many of the populace to support the CCP instead of the KMT government who only favors the few (elites/powerful). So, the KMT will fall because of their own greed and pride.

It was tragic to see Wen's death especially in front of Rou Lai who that day decided to quit and no longer want to participate in the corruption that can harm many people. RouLai wants others to succeed but he has no control on the decisions they make, he can only offer advice and warn them. Ms. Zhou, Wen, and others were already warned to not spend more than they can and to sell their construction bills right away before it was too late. A whole month had passed before the stocks for the construction bill collapsed/decreased. Why they did not sell it within that whole time??? Like the saying goes " Do not bit off (take) more than you can chew." Oh why why did not listen to Rou Lai?? They could see in his sad face that it won't go well.
This two episodes is a great lesson to not spend more than what you have. I was always warned to not spend more than half my credit limit. So, it wise to not over spend/waste money you don't have. Even Shen Tunan warned Wei Rou Lai to always be cautious. If the bank collapsed, they can only return $200,000 per person. So, it is best to diversify your assets, put money in different banks, house/properties, life insurance, items that can be easily transfered into money later, or a business that can help produce profit.
We will see how the rest of episodes goes, it seems WRL is likely going towards the CCP if it means helping the common/poor people and will goes against the already corrupted/greedy leaders of the KMT.

Yeah, I think Wen and ChunMaio would have been great partners if he lived.

Most of us are not greedy until we get swept up /lured by it. One has to remain firmly grounded. Roulai works in a bank and the bank apprentices were told to curve their desires because they work with money.
Rou Lai and the older gentleman who lives with them told Ms. Zhou, Wen, and others to not be greedy and spend money that they only have at hand. Not to gamble what they don't
have. They should have listened to him and not lied to RuoLai about it. I guess Nei ChunMaio is even wise enough to know that the construction bill was a scam and warned RouLai.

Definitely heartbreaking for episodes 25 and 26. Yeah, Shen Tunan is likely going to die for his faith in KMT, even though he knows how corrupt they are. Kind of like the older generation who refuses to see the truth or admit fault. This two episodes really showcases how greed and pride can cause great downfall and tragedy.

Wow! Episode 23 and 24 is quite a climax, so much was going on and revealed the through nature of KMT that both STN and WRL dreams along with Central Bank have somehow collapsed. Now they are feeling heartbrokenly disappointed and unsure who trust and believe. STN was definitely pissed off after ther meeting with KMT officials hiding/covering up the truth and putting the blame on someone else or the actual heroes of the raid. We will see how Sino Japanese war will also affect their mentality and future stance, since war can be tragic and brings not only lost of lives but also lost of wealth within the country.

This drama has really badass women in it! Without Nui ChunMiao and Shen Jizhen bravery, taking risk to fight none of them (STN and WRL included) would have survived the raid on that warehouse, with the police just shooting anyone without questioning what is going on. Song Meijuan is really brave and loyal to stay with Lin Qiansong even after he was used scapegoat by those he worked for and was imprisoned. Especially she still does not know about her brother. Su Chi (Mrs. Shen) staying calm and taking care of her daughter amidst all this chaos.

I definitely could see WRL and LQS joining the CCP because they are tired of the corruption and hiprocrisy. While STN is kind of stubborn, I am afraid WRL and SJZ will have to against him in the future. This drama has just been so intense so far, I am glad there are some comedy now and then to lighten it up a bit.

I Looked it up to better understand the Chinese civil war between Koumingtang (KMT) and Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The KMT favored the elite/wealthy within the city, while the CCP favored the poor and industrial workers mostly in the countryside. It is still true that the city has more concentrated of wealth even today. I think Capitalism (where money is involved) is what brought people out poverty. Mostly the creation of jobs to circulate wealth to move impoverish people to the middle class. To have a strong economy, there has to be a strong middle class. Trouble rises when the gap within the rich and poor is wide, this is what happened during the civil war. Capitalism can sometimes produce lots of waste, how do we protect the planet, reduce waste but still keep the money moving/circulated so the economy is still going is something we have to think about.
It still exist, super wealthy people wanting to keep getting richer at the expense of the poor. I guess part of the government's job is to keep things balance between the rich, middle class, and poor. That is why the government is serious about taxes and you want to make sure you pay your share of it. The rich makes more, so they have to pay more, the poor make less so they pay less. It really depends on the leaders on the top and how well the money/economy is managed. And whether it gets distributed properly. Each person in the government or even each citizen plays an important role in society, no matter how small. In the end of the day, it is up to the person how they want to live their life. Many just want to live simple peaceful lives. New rules and regulations are put in place everytime a few people breaks rules/disrupts the peace (Depends on severity of the crime). While there are some who creates chaos, there will also be people who will try to provide solutions to the problem. Life is a cycle I guess, we just have to make the best of, and try to make this world a little better.

The scene where Ms. Zhou was trying to set WRL with her niece was hilarious!
The dialogue, reaction, and interaction was was fun to watch. And how Wen also help cover for WRL and the neice reaction to it all was cool! The celebration at Ms. Zhou's house and all their neighbors was very heartwarming and was lovely to watch.
The WRL visiting STN's house with his family and sister SJZ was very cute. Definitely a calm before the storm.
STN is a smart law abiding citizen but really has big challenges to take against corrupted leaders and their unfair practices, especially torturing WRL to commit for something he did not do. The mentor and student between WRL and STN with their trust for each other is really well done. STN is now really mad at what they had done to WRL. I wonder what he plans to do about this. I guess their were no lawyers at this time period for what how they tortured and tried to force WRL to confess something he/STN did not do.
Now, I wonder when and Lawyers or Law was established in China. Was there one during a war torn era of after the civil war ended? Maybe Wang Yibo's next role would be a lawyer, if there is a good script for it.

* Li Qin as Feme Fatal/Spy SJZ in Republican era really does a great job! SJZ and LQS are good a playing mind games and it was intriguing how they were arguing by speaking through riddles/play on words. So, LQS was a former communist and the fact SJZ new that, but also states the unfairness that he was promoted instead of accused. So SJZ killed his former communist boss and family to save his career/life. With how much LQS tortured WRL, how unfair/corrupt the practices were, this might lead to WRL joining SJZ and fighting back. That is some trauma WRL went through being falsely accused and used as a tool against STN. We will have to wait next episode what will happen. I wonder how Ms. Zhou and Qian the Axe Gang leader will take this, after they learn about WRL being tortured unfairly.

That is Wang Yibo for you! He knows what he wants and goes after it with great determination, the same way he worked hard at dancing because it is something he loves. Wang Yibo really brave the winds and waves when he knows what he wants. Yibo is less interested in idol dramas and more interested in dramas/film with compelling stories and interesting characters. You go Wang Yibo, be just the way you are and do what you love not what is popular.

I agree with you! This drama War on Faith is so intriguing plot wise with great characters that the romance is not even really important. There is so much more depth to the story, as more things unfolds it so riveting that you want to know more about what will happen next and become curious about other topics like history about politics, war, finance/economy, weapons during the time period. Really great drama with substance. I like to watch romance and light dramas from time to time, but a great drama with a great storytelling that is unforgettable is really worth the watch. I also agree with many comments that this drama that would be worth it to watch at the cinema/movie theaters.
At the same time, I love that it is a drama with many episodes not a movie. 1 to 3 hour movie would not be as satisfying to watch compared to a drama with many episodes. Can't wait for more episodes!

The Untamed is not only for queer people, it is for all people who loves a great story, directing, acting, cinematography, and ost. It is a masterpiece because of many reasons. Each of the actors in that drama played their part real well that all were memorable characters from heroes to villains.
I am not interested in one particular genre, I like many types genres, the most important thing for me is a drama or film that is a wonderful storyline with captivating characters that stays with you, either make you feel or think about life a little more.

War of Faith which is a Republican genre that may not be a popular with many compared to Wuxia or Xanxia, but this drama is really well done. I would say War of Faith is second to the The Untamed drama that Wang Yibo is a part of. I am glad Wang Yibo played Wei Rou Lai, he is perfect for the role, I am glad he is trying to find different kinds of role or drama/film to play in. It is good to try different characters and genres.
War of Faith is really a great compelling drama, kind of keeps me at the edge of my seat, full of suspense. Even though there is some propaganda, which I think is normal because Wang Yibo is proud of his country, I mean that is where he is born, where he grew up, and have continuously worked. So, it makes sense for him to support his country since he is also his country's ambassador for dancing , skateboarding, and home town in Louyang.
Overall the drama War of Faith is Fantastic in directing, pacing, cinematography, ost, acting, and especially the script with great dialogue. Each actor/actress in the drama is playing their role really well, whether it is the main or small roles. No annoying characters but memorable characters that is weave well into the story. I been waiting for a really good drama with a great story, finally I got to watch one and also see Wang Yibo in it is a plus. He really has amazing charismatic on screen presence that pulls you in to watch. I can't wait for more episodes of this drama, it is definitely binge worthy. I might have to rewatch from the beginning again because it is hard to wait for more episodes. Maybe others are waiting for more episodes before watching this as well, so they can binge watch it all at once.

Ah what a beautiful ending! Hong Yi and Yan Shuang are so cute together, what a power couple when they fight together. The Monster Realm chooses their leader base on strong capabilities. Hong Yi and Yan Shuang are really perfect for each other! The ending wrapped really well. So after a 1,000 years we have HY and YS's wedding at Pear Blossom Cottage with their gorgeous magenta wedding clothes was just a wonderful scene. Plus we had other couples like Emperor Ao Ge and Karma Stone with a red string. Yuanqi and Fengyin reunion at Pear Blossom. Lastly the best part is that we got to see it end with Xiu Yan and Mingqi walking together! Wow! Really great chemistry between both even though there are only few scenes of them in the drama. Truly a very happy ending!

Like from the original Karate movie or Kung FY panda animation (out of topic), they had to do chores before learning new and powerful skills. Even Yuanqi said that in Daze Mountain he did simple chores as well. Before cultivating to be an immortal, most disciples are taught to do simple chores to make them stronger and learn humility. That is why Feng Yin wanted to experience the trials of life 1000 years ago. She was A Yin and experienced 27 trials before returning as a Phoenix Queen.

In order tho be a good and powerful queen, experiencing hardship is like gold or metal being refined in fire. Same thing a diamond goes through when being polished and shaped. Probably in order for immortals become gods they have to endure tribulations thunder. To test their strength and resolve.

Yuanqi/Gu Jin growing up in Daze Mountain was a good thing to help him be more humble compare to growing in heavenly realm since most of those immortals are so entitled and toxic.

That is what is so refreshing about A Journey to Love! I like their mature romantic relationship with good communication and understanding.

Thanks for your comment and reading my long comment! I have art studio background. I remember that sometimes what you envision/draft does not always come out how you expect for the final artwork. It takes a lot of work/process to got somethings right. I like that after each artwork, students will present their work, the teacher and classmate will critique the work. Both the negatives and positives of each artwork. So, the artists can improve their future work.

I prefer Xiao Zhan to work with a FL that is not so young or new. The FL does not have to be very beautiful, but her acting skills as to be in the same level as Xiao Zhan. Otherwise it would be a mix matched. Xiao Zhan and Zhao Lusi does have good on screen chemistry in Oh! My Emperor drama.
She usually have chemistry with most of her co-stars in many of her dramas. She has a nice bubbly personality she can make others feel at
ease.

Lui Shi Shi is an experienced actress with a background in ballet like Lou Xunxi/Leo Lu. Lui Yuning said in an interview that Lui Shi Shi is very strict and he respects her as a senior. Lui Yuning said he tends to bend his shoulders when standing, Lu Shi Shi would correct him to stand up straight and follows her guidance for that whenever they had a scene.

I took dance class in college, and the teacher said the same thing about having good posture. In The Untamed drama most of the cast had to go through a boot camp for learning instruments, martial arts, calligraphy, and etiquette for historical dramas like keeping a good posture before the cast started filming. So even though many of the actors in The Untamed barely had any acting experiences, from director to producer, stage crew, and actors put a lot of effort into it. So, to have a great drama, directing, script, producers, acting, and chemistry is all very important.

Actually, Xiao Zhan said in an interview he will retire/get married at age 35. That would be year 2026 when his contract officially ends with Wajijiwa company. He has own private studio but had to pay some percetage to the company.

Most contracts last for 10 years from debut year. The only way to break a contract is to pay the compensation. So, most just wait until the contract to end before breaking away from their company.I am not really worried about Xiao Zhan, he works hard in anything he does. I don't think Xiao Zhan really cares about popularity even though he is popular, he just wants to do a good job. Xiao Zhan was already a professional graphic designer before his debut in the entertainment industry as an idol with his group X nine, that included Jason Koo and Oh! My Emperor cast members.

Xiao Zhan is multi-talented, he is graphic designer (which includes art, technology, and business), he is versatile actor, and incredible singer with an amazing voice (singing was the reason he entered C-entertainment industry). He graduated from a University, so even if retired from acting he has many options. He can pursue singing and music (produce his own music albums, do OST for dramas, or he a Voice Actor for dubbing), he can be an artist, designer, photographer, become a director or producer (since he has great eye for detail& experience in acting), work as a model, or he can pursue a teaching profession in a University.

Wang Anyu is still young and I am sure he can improve, the important thing is get better and produce better works in the future. His past historical drama was a Palace drama, and very different from Xianxia, which heavily relies on CGI for many scenes. He can practice with more roles he takes in the future. Sometimes some dramas can be a hit or miss, since art is a process that requires innovation and new ideas. Also, some people have different tastes in what dramas they like. Depends what they look for in a drama. To me, it really depends on the script, directing, and producers picking the right actors for the role. Historical dramas needs actors with a certain charisma and aura that is close to the character they will portray.

Watch Wang Yibo's New Year's Eve performances!!! Yibo is so cool rocking the 2024 New Year with his new song "Bystander, Everything is Lovely" and some collab performances. One with his DDU brother Da Zhang Wei and one with Wu Tong!

https://youtu.be/7BTWHmm0Dzw?si=i4Phl8O-I650ko_O

https://youtu.be/gNLQLd_0mJM?si=EWCbTO4JPXofaqru

https://youtu.be/_tfXkeBaNE4?si=C1YUrMgToUvFpAv4

Happy New Year Wang Yibo!!!🎆🎇🧧🎸🎉🎉🦁💚💚💚

Like they say, "Be carefully what you wish for, you just might get it! Sometimes what we get is not what we expect. Lol