Minalapinou

Bonkers script that never slows down, hammy acting (mostly from the secondary cast), all the tropes, it shouldn't work that well but it weirdly does, thanks to the actors who are there for it, embracing the camp, a very strong direction and excellent pacing. I do have to mention that the plot takes a while to begin though, we get FOUR whole episodes on the blind princess who will be replaced by the true heroïne, and as a result I struggled to get myself attached to the (fake) twins, as we don't really know who they are and why we should root for them. But as a true trash panda I couldn't really say no to the forbidden romance, even more so with Zhou Jun Wei being all broody and sexy in black and making smouldering eyes at Lu Zhao (he flirts and kisses her like there is no tomorrow). Zhu Li Lan is versatile and has chemistry with everyone, she can switch between doe-eyed maiden and ruthless ruler without batting an eye. At first I was not really into it but couldn't look away (the poor princess' life is a trainwreck), and then got very addicted once our main duo takes the lead. Finally the production and direction must be noted, as it's immaculate, even better than some longer shows. I was taking tons of screens : the compo, colors, lighting and costumes were all gorgeous.