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This review may contain spoilers
Ming Lan Has Become One of My Favorite Heroines
Delightful! I adored Ming Lan from her difficult childhood through her tortured teens and into a blossoming adult. I'd hesitated starting the drama because 78 episodes is a commitment, but time flew faster with Ming Lan than with some 16 episode dramas.
The writers did a commendable job juggling a large cast; each character was distinct and had purpose. The acting was as good as the script.
Children who live with abuse, neglect, or bullying learn to observe their surroundings and the people around them closely. As a survival device, they become invisible, but they're always assessing danger and planning how best to extricate themselves. Ming Lan learned strategy at an early age, and she hid her intelligence behind a quiet, inoffensive smile.
It was pure pleasure to see her outthink and outmaneuver her siblings, parents, and other adults during her childhood. She willingly took abuse and blame and quietly accepted punishment. She seemingly had little desire to protect herself, but when it came to those she cared about being hurt, she'd assume that quiet smile and plot retribution in scary fashion.
The romantic scenes were relatable with teasing, laughter, and faux umbrage. The chemistry was sweet. The interactions between Ming Lan and her grandmother were warm and touching.
All in all, a wonderful slice of life/coming of age drama featuring intelligent, decent people fighting against adversity and evil people.
The writers did a commendable job juggling a large cast; each character was distinct and had purpose. The acting was as good as the script.
Children who live with abuse, neglect, or bullying learn to observe their surroundings and the people around them closely. As a survival device, they become invisible, but they're always assessing danger and planning how best to extricate themselves. Ming Lan learned strategy at an early age, and she hid her intelligence behind a quiet, inoffensive smile.
It was pure pleasure to see her outthink and outmaneuver her siblings, parents, and other adults during her childhood. She willingly took abuse and blame and quietly accepted punishment. She seemingly had little desire to protect herself, but when it came to those she cared about being hurt, she'd assume that quiet smile and plot retribution in scary fashion.
The romantic scenes were relatable with teasing, laughter, and faux umbrage. The chemistry was sweet. The interactions between Ming Lan and her grandmother were warm and touching.
All in all, a wonderful slice of life/coming of age drama featuring intelligent, decent people fighting against adversity and evil people.
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