Nelly

Okay, full disclosure: I don’t usually touch short dramas. They’re popping up everywhere like mushrooms after rain, but I avoid them like the plague. Why? Because let’s be real, most of them look like they were filmed on a budget smaller than my grocery bill. The acting is shaky, the sets look like borrowed storage units, and the plots? Let’s not even go there. I don’t care how juicy the edits look on TikTok or IG, I usually skip without blinking.

But... "Embrace in the Dark Night" hit a little different.

Now, listen. If you can look past the storyline—l, which feels like a throwback to those old-school Hong Kong martial arts films, complete with mysterious secret organizations and everyone fighting like it’s their last day on Earth, you’re in for a good time. A really good time. Especially if you’re lucky enough to find the full five-hour version on YouTube.

Let’s talk about the acting.

The male lead carried this show on his very broad (and may I say, very attractive) shoulders. I mean it. The man acted, kicked, smirked, and kissed like his life depended on it. I was so impressed I paused mid-episode to snoop-out his other works. He's young, but if he keeps this up, in ten years we’re going to be seeing him everywhere.He’s got that “it” factor.

And don’t even get me started on the chemistry. It’s the kind of slow-burn that turns into a wildfire when you least expect it. You’ll find yourself kicking your feet, clutching your pillow, and whispering, “Oh my god, they’re gonna kiss again, aren’t they?” Spoiler: they do. A lot.

And here's where it gets spicy.

Apparently, short dramas in China aren’t regulated by the same strict rules as the long ones. Which means... directors are free to go rogue. And go rogue, this director did. The ML wasn’t just stepping out of the postal office, he was delivering everything. We’re talking many, many kissing scenes. And not your innocent peck-on-the-forehead kind. Nope. We’re talking full-blown, open-mouth, French kiss kind. This drama just made Cdrama history, that it still comes up on the top of the list whenever a "spicy" recommendation is requested.

Oh, and the OST? Shockingly good.

Most of the songs were in English (and not the cringey kind!), which made the whole thing feel extra satisfying. The soundtrack added that emotional kick right when you needed it. They really knew what they were doing there.

Final verdict?

If you’re in the mood for something short but steamy, with just enough action to keep your eyes open and enough heat to set your blanket on fire, without stressing over a coherent plot—then this one’s for you. Just embrace the chaos, enjoy the romance, and thank me later.