Ophanin

The title says it all. Where does this woman, who looks just like a noblewoman, come from ? How can appearances alone be enough to gain entry into the aristocracy ? What cruelty lies hidden behind polite manners ?

The beginning is surprising because of the cruelty and violence displayed by the character who is logically supposed to become the heroine. Then, another character steals her spotlight and turns out to be particularly clever and far more interesting because of her life of hardship. With all these elements, it could have been spectacular. In a way, it is, in places. But the series suffers from pacing issues that weigh down the plots and somewhat detract from Tian Xi Wei’s performance.

It gets stuck halfway through, with way too much repetitive dialogue. Entire episodes where nothing happens. Others where things move at breakneck speed. And often, both at the same time ! Because the editing cuts from one scene to the next both too quickly and too slowly. And as a result, Jun Dai’s death halfway through the season loses all impact. She was there ; now she’s gone. That’s it. That said, from that point on, things get interesting again in the second half. We want to see this imperial family fall, these profiteers, these party animals, those whose happiness is built on the misery of the poor.

In the last episode, I thought to myself, “Finally, it’s getting started.” And then I saw “The End.” Oh, well. At least the main couple was super cute and trusted each other despite all the challenges. I guess all we can do now is hope for a sequel ? I’ve seen everything Tian Xi Wei has done this year, and everything she’s touched has been a smash hit. She’s a great actress!