Nepeta 22

Scripts were strong for the older characters but when it came to the younger actors/actresses, they fell flat. The story turned all mushy and unbelievable and in the end you can't root for annoying Song Yang who's self serving no matter how the scripts try to turn it round. He was very unlikeable and trying to pit Kong Liang against him was cringeworthy and cliched. Female lead falling for Song Yang also seemed forced and the message they were trying to feed us felt insincere considering what the whole drama was about. She wouldn't have been interested in him at all. As for her father, another let down with no logic.

The story works because it doesn't try to give one side and not the other. The characters from the stories are relatable and more realistic to many in all walks of life. The reason it has success is the fact that it draws you into asking if you were there, would you have been any better than the so-called villains.

Apart from the true crafts people that feature, this is a poor attempt at a story that's weak and truly not with reality. The fact that a character like Tao Tang can actually keep secrets on behalf of the female lead is truly horrifying and wrong. This is then re-sold back as tasteful when in reality, it's creepy. Quirky is sold as clever is so dated and in the end, you are not rooting for her but begging for her downfall. The story telling tries to be witty in a middle-of-the-road way and doesn't hit the spot throughout. It's a shame as the only highlight are people's clothes.