beatrix0304

Gege Hao Shuai - drama that started a trend on tiktok - amazing romance between 2 normal people

The drama
- is special for c drama cinematics because it is romance between two ordinary people. They don't have super talents, superpowers. They have ordinary jobs. The plot is already unique just by that.
- she fell first, he fell harder
- the famous gege hao shuai scene that started a tiktok trend is in a 2nd episode of this drama
- the kind of love we look for in a drama. The kind of love you look for in your life.

Financially they are not poor nor rich. So they are two "ordinary" people. But I liked the drama because it shown romance between a really good guy, and a really good girl. Two really nice people fall in love, and do their best to navigate life and make it together. There is something so subtly powerful, and healing about that.

ML actor - Oscar worthy performance
FL actor -Zhao Lu Si amazing as always, such a beautiful, vulnerable girl, real, authentic, normal
Brother actor - he elevated the entire plot. He is embodiment of "brother" noun in the world. He makes you feel everything you feel for your brother - you love him he is super cute, he is annoying just as brothers are, so cool, role model you look up to him. Advisor, protector, This actor made FL and ML much more special. Some parts of their characters were able to shine because of brother character.

NOW SPOILERS, read them if ONLY you're not sure weather to watch. If you are sure to watch THEN DON'T READ IT. Enjoy this masterpiece as it goes.
.
.
.
.

The scene that is completely worth the watch and rewatch, and is one of the best scenes of c drama universe
- the scene where she tells him she was in love with him since they first met, this is where ML actor did one of the best performances ever. You could tell by his expression he wanted to hug her, protect her, and he felt sorry for not loving her sooner. Because to him she was the most valuable, and she was for first 5 years alone in that love. You could see it in his eyes, on his face as FL spoke. You forget you're watching a drama, it is so real. Amazing performance, and a must watch. After all this is what we look for in a drama. And in life.
- almost every scene where she tells him something important. The focus he listens with.. Men who are reading this, watch and learn . This is what women want. It's that simple. You can come back here to comment it is one of the best scenes ever :) you welcome.
- every interaction of FL and ML with brother, such an amazing guy. Even the way he's annoying is cute.

Read More

ML/ FL live lonely obedient life , until they saw something worth living for and dying for.Love

Chemistry between ML & FL - wow. It escalates, episodes 15-17 are such a cute rewatch.
You can really feel two wise characters who had to develop cunning personalities to survive cruel world they live in. Fighting against suppressing surrounding, and growing feelings that will lead them into love that is a danger for both of their lives. I love it when she tries to take his notorious double blade sword from him, and she then plays timid. And he says: "You are the only one who ever tried to take it from me.." There are many rewatch worthy, quote worthy moments. And in episode 16 you finally get to see unveiling of their true feeling, and freedom that comes from being who you are, and lovering your guard.

I don't understand background/culture/politics/ private life of actors, and I see there's a lot of controversy. in the comment section. And i think that is what affected such a low rating. But for me who don't know much about the cast, and politics, all I see is two people each with their own agenda, smart, capable, ML dangerous, FL witty, playing along the rules, to survive.... He didn't have ambitions to usurp the throne, although he had every capacity, smarts and ability to do so. She didn't want power, although she could have become empress, the most noble woman in the world.
Both of them in their lonely obedient life , until they saw something worth living for and dying for. Love.
Then suddenly they start rejecting anything power could give, for simple life of love.
The ending is so perfect. So metaphorical.

Also, if you love Wang He Di, he just shines in this one. He is brilliant in this dual character, the most dangerous person of empire, then loosing his ratio and taking risks that will keep you on your toes.
First half is enemies to lovers.
Second half is seeing super smart person escaping death every second. For love.

Read More

Great rivalry and dynamics between supersmart and dangerous ML and 2nd ML, and normal girl FL

The "frenemies" relationship between ML and 2nd ML is definitely a highlight of this drama. Their rivalry is so entertaining, plot twists, so wise, both super smart, a little bit dangerous, with adjustable moral compass, you can not really predict what they would do. And both gentle and kind with FL trying to catch her love, so you get to see their soft side, and then you soften up on them... Very intense and captivating dynamics. Especially when you add one is lead by revenge, and the other by ambition. Both obstructed with powerful and cunning people. And both surrounded with loyal team, because it suits with such a powerful men charisma.

Many dramas try to kick of this aura of dangerous powerful super smart and capable man, but don't pull it off. The dialogues are off, the plot, something fails.. But not here.

+
+ ML is something, most actors act with their words, body language and facial expressions. But some actors have so expressive eyes. That's why he can play such a powerful and dominant ML. What I've seen so far Wang Xing Yue has that in The Double. Their characters weren't very vocal, but we understood everything and they transfer a lot of emotion.
+ I like in this show that FL is not some bravado trying to prove her self, she is just a normal girl, genuinely wants to be free, but keeps falling back to a plot, which is understandable given these two MLs. No escaping from them. But she manages to be herself and keep her cute innocent heart, while growing her knowledge and skills to be less of a victim of a scenario. + romantic moments between Ml and FL are cute and gentle. They are not typical bedtime cuddles and kisses. But he never fails to deliver, you will understand as you watch. He is actually perfect for her free spirit and wandering heart. The scene where he finds her hidden above his bed after he did all to protect her and risked his safety, and the relief he felt just as she was safe. As if his safety didn't matter in that moment. And many more scenes like that.
+ episode 5 is a rewatch material 10/10. so many good scenes :) watch a drama at least first 5 episodes. After that you won't be able to stop. :)

-
- Her Master is overpraised, I didn't like the logic behind her character, to manipulative and still presented as green flag.
- The mother of Pei Wan was crazy, but some of her crazy could have been better if there was a better foundation for it. I didn't really understand that part.

Read More

Perfect husband and father with dark hidden crime history, and a perfect wife, righteous detective

Romance and crime balanced in perfection
ML - Perfect husband and father to a 6year old girl. Husband material 10/10, Or is he? he comes with dark secrets.
FL - perfect wife and mother. So loving, fun, happy, beautiful, but also ambitious, wise, smart, righteous detective that can catch a bad guy before anyone. She can recognise a criminal within a second. She has the best team of supportive talented smart colleagues. And her amazing mom that is also warm kind person.

Is love so blinding that even one of the best detectives ever can be fooled. How good at disguise is the ML?

Just give yourself two episodes. You won't be able to stop binging this.

Now the details:
Great meaningful conversations that really trigger:
- suspense - these detectives when they talk you feel like you're the part of the investigation, and the puzzle keeps on unveiling
- romance - it's amazing, no details for spoilers, and no need to sell this one, you won't be able to stop binging anyway.
- crime - is not there to gross you out, very few direct violence scene, but suspense is amazing.
- well layered characters - every character is well written as if it was in collaboration with true psychiatrist, portrayal of gray characters and dark characters to the max.
- no empty fillers in this one - every moment is a clue, prepare a nice rainy weekend for this one :) popcorn, snacks, drinks.
- there are not many flaws in this drama,

Recommendation:
- can be easily watched with significant other, so much romance and action, great for boyfriend and girlfriend
- not for family watching - too much violence

Read More

The best C drama ML and FL ever - watch it

There are several minor spoilers in characters description. But show is a must watch. So watch it.
If you are not sure, then read below why you should. You are reading a review, so you are thinking weather its worth your time and below is described why it is to help you decide.

Where to event start, everything was perfect. I love all the characters from the show. But the lead 4 are actors to be remembered. Wang Xing Yue, Wu Jin Yan, and Liang Yong Qi and Li Meng.

ML - Duke Su
He is everything you ever wanted a man to be. He is everything every boy would fantasise to become. I guess whomever wrote the character just went for that. Also the actor himself, director knew how to emphasise him. Those eyes!! He is smart, has humor, capable, perceptive, informed, has integrity, character, and so on... You would trust this guy with your life. Also his two side kicks are awesome.

FL - Jiang Li / Xue Fang Fei
She is everything a girl ever wants to be. Smart, capable, talented, educated, elegant, beautiful, kind, good person, genuine. And she navigates hardships with no stage fright and no fear at all. On the other side during her battle she doesn't lose track of her own integrity, and she is righteous. And she is very feminine.

ML & FL relationship
The best flirts and dialogues of C drama ever. Supportive of each other, playful but not deceptive. Slow burn, but not to slow. Inside jokes. You can see the character development, change on both sides as they grow towards one another. If you ever had true love, that is how it feels like. Effortless, just being yourself and magnets just go crazy.

Villains - Shen Yurong and Princess
Shen Yurong could be a show of his own, perfect villain story. Very expressive actor, super hot. Torn between feelings, love, ambition, family, grievance, melancholic, so many emotions in his face. amazing. The princess - wow. I've never been afraid of any villain in the show as her. She is very unpredictable.

The plot
- no wuxia, xanxia, exaggerated stuff
- watch even the palace intrigues scenes, in this show they are important clues, and will make you fall hard for FL
- FL and ML make no mistakes - yes!! they don't become dumb and do stupid things - this is very important
- villains are layered and they are interesting and you will love them too
- the plot has a good pace

Minus - but everything else is so good that you won't feel it
- I've would have cut down on the stepmom scenes - that is a bit predictable and overused, disney level character
- to little of ML and FL scenes - you will not have enough of them
- the last 10 min ending is a bit rushed and is not fair towards the rest of the show.

The worst thing about this show is you'll find nothing even close as good.

Read More

The best detective story - navigates you through clues and makes you part of the detective team

Romance junkies go watch Coroner's Diary, you are rating this one for the wrong category.
Others, welcome to one of the best historical detective stories. It is a great ride of finding clues, and decyphering and reading people, intentions. I love the whole Bei Ming's crew :) they are so cute :) Amazing character developments.

I think some viewers don't know how to rate a drama according to a category. But I like different plots, arcs, atmospheres and emotions of the drama, so it works for me. I like this one, I event consider it one of the best detective stories in historical setting. Top 3 for sure.

Everything is a closed lopp, and nothing is unnecessary. Once you notice this you will be hooked, it will almost train you to think as the part of the detective team. Don't blink and don't fast forward, you will miss out :D

I will not write more because this is a detective story. And as such is full of clues. It is very important not to read comment section. What is enough is to have proper expectation. This is not a romance drama. It has some romance. But romance is not main plot.

But I will mention my 2 favorites:
1. WXY performance - he has this perfect blend of investigator, humor, bickering, positively and friendly competitive, very wise, charming aura. Also has a vulnerable side, which makes you as a viewer to empathise with him. His eyes, so expressive so captivating.
2. Zhuge Kong Yun - maybe unexpected, but his character development was so layered and well paced.

Enjos. Don't read comments anywhere and don't watch tiktok. Enjoy this one as it goes.

Read More

Drama for giggles and relaxing end of the day with cute green flag ML and ambitious FL

The best modern drama. ML is green flag, charming, normal, smart, and full of cute little scenes. FL is driven, ambitious, smart, fun. Plot is so fun, makes you giggle, and relaxing. There are 5 couples, and each ave fun story of their own.

Now, more detailed review (don't read if minor spoilers could alternate your experience)

+
+ ML is green flag, fun, cute towards family and FL, decisive and wise in business. Wang Hedi great again. Nerdy cute which goes with the character.
+ Niece is a very cute character that brings fun dynamics with ML , but also at work with FL.
+ FL, Bai Lu is great as usual.

-
- FL for someone who we should believe is so good with words that she is praised over and over again she is really bad at other conversations, networking, and relationships. Someone should have written her dialogues better. She has a vocabulary and relationships navigation of 1st year student at literature
- The relationship with professor and niece - she shouldn't have begged that man for 10 episodes. too long, That relationship had much more potential and could have contributed to the story more if he wasn't too aloof. Its like trying to seduce a wall.

Read More

Drama with amazing characters and interactions

Even supporting characters are all amazing! ML and FL have interactions with supporting characters that will be so interesting to follow. They will go through development, not just serious of conversations. All cast is amazing, and they really each have a unique contribution you will like them for. The good thing, there is no actual villain, just many desinformed people, navigating their way through confusion, forgiveness, personal growth into a better character. Actually there is one villain, but almost irrelevant to the main plot.

ML - Wu Lei is magnificent as always. He delivers an amazing character once again, and he is so good at these powerful, skilled men roles, and on the other hand he can be so gentle with the FL- even without the kiss, just the body language and eyes he can make you feel chemistry.
FL - this is in my opinion shortcoming of this drama, to boyish, and there are many good dramas with boyish FL, but she rejected ML to many times, and when she accepted him, it was so meh as if she was just kind, no love in her eyes or body language whatsoever. Maybe it is poorly written FL. For me, she was kind and genuine, and skilled, but lacked to recognise logic. There are several things she did that are complete dumbass move, and ML warned her about it, but trying to be independent she was stupid. And instead of apologising and fixing as the real hero would, she went into pitty mode.

Emperor - the first time in C drama that emperor is kinda hot. Righteous, and has something.
Hao Du - the way love transformed him, for me they were the lead couple. And from the "villain" start to genuine kind guy, so cool.
Yong An - the way life and situations transformed her, also her growth in every sense, professionally and as a person.
Du Ru Hui - not your typical boring righteous minister. He has heart
Brother Shuyu - is so perfectly miserable in love, but has dignity, not one of those pitiful or villain second ML. Although with the FL as she is, he would be a better fit.

Some boring characters - Mimi, Kathun, they are a drag. Princess Tujia, too much time screen time on irrelevant character that has insignificant effect on the main plot. Without the character you wouldn't miss anything in the plot.

Read More

Badass FL & ML supportive of each other relationship - well served

There are several moments where she's to agressive towards ML for no reason and stabs him for in the argument. Besides that her character would be 10/10. But making her super smart and then assaulting the men that is obviously the only one on her side is quite dumb. So there are several minutes in the show like that, that are completely out of character. Because they want us to believe she is smart and dangerous. So this is maybe a spoiler but still. For me that a bit spoiled a fun.

Good things:
- there are no repetitive scenes over used in most of drama
- no xanxia, no wuxia, no exaggeration
- characters are believable
- no palace schemes
- plot twist is really good

ML & FL
- good chemistry, but not even one kiss. They should have added at least insinuation they've kissed. It feels to much friend-zone
- ML is wow. If you were in trouble, you would want this guy around
- FL is probably the strongest in C drama, but a bit red flag for my taste.

Read More