emberzmars

I loved the dynamics between ML & his sisters

I was in the mood for Qian Zhe drama and unplanned pregnancy is one of my favourite tropes so I clicked Play. Overall I enjoyed this drama.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - She is smart & hardworking and I understand why she was hesitant to accept ML's pursuit. Wang Yi Yang was wonderful in this role.
2. Siblings - One thing that stands out in this drama is the sibling dynamics. There are plenty of vertical dramas which main character has brothers. So it's refreshing to see sisters and as family members to ML. The oldest was the smart leader, middle sister was tough chick while youngest was playful entertainer. I enjoyed watching their support for FL.
3. Supporting characters - ML's mother was nice.
4. Rivalry - I enjoyed watching the sales competition between FL and antagonist.

What I disliked:
1. Romance - Unfortunately the romance in this drama is lacking. Even though ML liked FL for who she is and not because of the baby, he was too cool & distant. FL seemed inhibited too so I found it awkward because Qian Zhe & Wang Yi Yang have great chemistry.
2. Antagonist - She was envious of FL and always felt the need to compete. The public shaming was a step too far.

Favourite scene
When ML's sisters came to back up FL

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A story about a female pilot: her career struggles and romantic relationships

I watched this drama on 3 June after dropping another drama of Han Jia Hui, which had too much negativity in the first 40 minutes. Love at 30,000 feet was an enjoyable watch.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - It is sad that she never sought promotion because of then boyfriend but I was delighted that she pursued her dream of becoming the first female pilot for that specific aircraft. I liked her confidence and determination. It's wonderful to see Han Jia Hui in this role.
2. ML characterisation - He's such a sweetheart. It was my first time watching Zhang Xuan. I'll definitely watch his other dramas.
3. Romance - Overall sweet and slow burn. ML knew when he could be playful with FL but without going over the boundary.
4. PSA - There was a great scene involving the police. I loved it when the officer stated "whether you've broken up or not, forcing a woman to have sex is rape." Such a powerful line.
5. Supporting characters - It's wonderful to see FL getting recognition from her colleagues especially after she was promoted to captain. I like her first officer. Oh I liked ML's family too - they were supportive of him and his relationship.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - I hated FL's ex for stopping her from promotion request and for cheating on her but then claimed that he had always loved her. Despite that, he was remorseful of his action towards the end of the drama. I was impressed by the performance from the actor playing second male lead. Back to antagonists, SFL was extremely irritating and dangerous. Wouldn't she be considered a terrorist for that action she made in the third act?
2. Fat suit - That was the most horrible fat suit I have seen on short dramas. Maybe there was a budget constraint but my gosh, his face makeup was too obvious even on 360p video quality.
3. Aviation errors - I love aviation so certain parts were too illogical. How could former staff have easy access to aircraft servicing & ATC tower?

Favourite scene
The assault and police arrival

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Sweet age-gap romance with wonderful chemistry

I always enjoy Zhao Guan Yu-Lin Zi Rong collab after watching 2 of their dramas, which I love. I enjoyed this drama. It is so sweet!

What I liked:
1. Romance - This is a slow burn romance, which is fitting because FL is young university student who is 9 years younger than ML. There was assumption made by ML about FL but this misunderstanding was quickly rectified and then ML started to fall in love hard with FL. I liked that ML waited until FL consented. There were plenty of sweet moments in this drama!
2. FL characterisation - She was concerned about being a burden to her new family, it's disheartening. Regardless of her circumstances, she remains positive about life. Once again, I am impressed by Lin Zi Rong's acting.
3. ML characterisation - It's good to see a bigshot humbled by a kind, genuine individual. I liked how protective, caring and respectful he is of FL. Zhao Guan Yu did well in his role.
4. Supporting characters - ML's executive assistant felt more like a close confidant to ML with his responses to ML's behaviour. I also liked ML's grandma, cousin (he's cute), FL's bestie and the Gus. Gu Yun Bai, portrayed by Du En Yu, had a rather interesting haircut.
5. Styling - I liked FL's styling as it followed the different phases of her life.
6. Hidden identity - I usually don't enjoy hidden identities being dragged too long but in this drama, I understood why the identities were kept longer than expected.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - Green tea Gu Qingyao should be punished heavily after she tried to put FL in a shameful position. The Mus were despicable but the son redeemed himself in the end.
2. Scenarios - FL had such bad luck as she encountered many difficult scenarios from drugging to kidnapping.

Favourite scene
When ML prepared late night snack for FL. So sweet!!!

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Love amidst zombies, superpower and jealous green tea

I checked out new releases 2 days ago and was intrigued by this drama's poster, the one with only Wang Hao Zhen & Hou Cheng Yue holding pistol. I saw 30 seconds of the drama and immediately suggested to MDL friend for a buddy watch. I enjoyed this drama a lot.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - Yes, the FL literally kicks ass! I loved her speech about being empowered without relying on men. Hou Cheng Yue was perfect in this role. She demonstrated smart, cool, badassery traits and her weapon handling seemed believable.
2. ML characterisation - He demonstrated good leadership capabilities. He's smart, sensible & loving. I have only seen 2 Wang Hao Zhen's dramas before this - wow his take on this role impressed me. He gave me Ren Jia Lun vibes throughout the drama - the subtle facial expressions, hair styling & that bathtub scene.
3. Fantasy & sci-fi genre - I loved that different tropes within these genre were explored in the drama e.g. zombie, antidote, superpower, dystopia / isolated communities. Great production value. This drama reminds me of US tv show The Last of Us.
4. Styling - Impeccable styling. Very cyberpunk. FL wore fabulous outfits except the black sequin top worn for excursion to an island. Loved outfits worn by ML & SML Shen Yi Chen.
5. Romance - Slow burn with mostly sweet gestures and 2 nice kisses. ML was devoted to FL from the start of this drama. What did ML mean during the ending?
6. Supporting characters - I really liked ML's subordinates. Their relationship with ML was more than just a boss-employee relationship. I also liked Shen Yi Chen. I recognised the actor when I saw his face & birthmark on his ear. He was in Wen Rou Ye Gu starring Wang Chen Peng & Zhai Xin Ran.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - There were 2 main types of antagonists in this drama: the green tea who is envious of FL and the military government. There was too much screen time given to the green tea that I lost interest in her third attempt to harm FL. I don't understand why she had such power over a group of military officers when she was a mere civilian. That final standoff was just silly but I was delighted with how her character was wrapped up. Now the military government arc had so much potential but was underdeveloped. A pity!
2. Length - The running time is close to 3.5 hours and for me, some parts were draggy. I wish certain scenes were removed & certain sub-plot were further developed.
3. Spice - I am complaining about the lack of spice. There were too many near-kiss moments that I got frustrated. With that extra long running time, they could have had 1 or 2 spicy scenes.

Favourite scene
When FL fought a group of zombies at the start of the drama

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ML who never gave up on true love

This was one of the earliest vertical dramas I watched when I first discovered them back in December 2024. I found this drama through a playlist of Han Jia Hui's dramas. It took me awhile to track info for this drama to be submitted as New Title. Delighted this MDL page is live because this drama is highly recommended.

What I liked:
1. Pregnancy - In most vertical dramas, unplanned pregnancy happens after a one-night stand, be it sober or intoxicated. It's different in this drama - the child was actually a product of love.
2. ML characterisation - I loved that ML never gave up in his search to find his true love even after many years of no contact. He was smart and had good instincts.
3. FL characterisation - It's wonderful that FL fight back against office bully. She is without flaw but I understand her reason for leaving ML after his surgery.
4. Romance - I loved the love story between ML and FL. There was love, passion and desire from both sides.
5. Styling - I liked the clothes worn by FL and her daughter. Beautiful and sensible clothes for leisure and for work.
6. Supporting character - FL's daughter is so adorable. She does resemble Li Zhuo Yao. FL's best friend is a great friend.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - Green tea just obsessed at becoming Mrs Ji because of status. She's vicious for using FL's daughter to threat FL.
2. Secrets - I wish FL had just told ML about her identity and their kid sooner. The lack of honest communication and red herring made FL an easy target for the green tea.

Favourite scene
When ML saved FL's daughter from being abducted

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Transactional relationship turned into love

I adored Liu Yi Fan in her drama with Wang Bing Xiang. I liked Wang Zilin in another drama in which he played a blind ML. Overall it was an enjoyable watch for me but I prefer other transactional relationahip-turned-love drama.

What I liked:
1. Romance - ML was attracted to FL from the first moment he saw her. Their relationship was transactional at the start but slowly progressed into love. However Liu Yi Fan seemed skittish during kissing scenes. I didn't get the natural chemistry between her and Wang Zi Lin.
2. Styling - I am fascinated by Wang Zi Lin's beautifully styled hair.
3. Supporting characters - I liked ML's friend the doctor even though he didn't stick to doctor-patient confidentiality.
4. Art - The embroidery and painting work done by FL were so adorable.
5. FL characterisation - It's great to see FL who wasn't intimidated by silly green tea.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - There were many in this drama. (i) FL's ex was so nosy and clearly disrespectful to her, (ii) colleague was delusional despite being told off, (iii) former arranged fiancée of ML was shameless, and last but not least ML's mother.

Favourite scene
When they played spin the soup spoon game

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The type of romance dramas I love - love, lust & frequent communication

I was drawn to this drama because of the title 'Seductive Kiss of The Rose'. A quick glance at the comments confirmed my gut feeling - this drama was worth watching. I enjoyed it very much that I occasionally watch it on repeat.

What I liked:
1. Romance - I was delighted to see 2 mature adults experiencing romance even though their marriage was arranged. It was a great mix of love, lust & frequent communication. Many steamy kisses & innuendo. ML's use of term of endearment was very sweet - I found Zhang Yi Hong's nasally voice soothing.
2. FL characterisation - She was a smart, capable CEO managing family business. She was also a kind & loving person as seen through her relationship with ML & her family. This is my first time watching Zhou Fei. I really liked her acting.
3. ML characterisation - He had this mysterious and dangerous aura surrounding him. I liked that he was loving & protective of his wife. Zhang Yi Hong was excellent in his role.
4. Sibling dynamics - I enjoyed watching the interactions between FL and her brothers. Her brothers trusted her.
5. Styling - I liked FL's styling. She had a dark but kind vibe that reminds me of Morticia Addams.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - Wow, antagonist in this drama was something else. He must have felt emasculated by FL's capability as CEO.
2. Death - Why must that person die? I was very sad.

Favourite scene
The golf course

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Plenty of physical intimacy but no emotional depth

Jiejie/older woman-younger man romance is my favourite trope. I appreciate that there are plenty of vertical dramas that cover this trope. Both Meng Na and Ye Hao Ran have acted in jiejie romance before so I had high expectations. However I was disappointed by the time I completed this drama.

If you want to watch better jiejie romance by these leads, look for either "Define Your Style" starring Meng Na & Liang Si Wei or "Wei Nian Ci Sheng" starring Ye Hao Ran & Sheng Yi Jie. Alternatively search for "Fake Love" starring Bai Yan & Feng Xiang Kun. That's my personal favourite jiejie romance from vertical dramaland.

What I liked:
1. Supporting characters - I really liked FL's brother as I thought his protectiveness was realistic. Grandpa was likeable.
2. Styling - I really liked ML's styling from hair & accessories to clothes and shoes. He looked very hip for someone in top management.

What I disliked:
1. Romance - Plenty of kissing and they got along well sexually but there was no emotional depth between ML & FL. It is frustrating that they never voiced out their feelings until the last 10 minutes of this drama. This drama is 2.5 hours long! I also disliked that FL was the one doing the most heavy lifting in the relationship.
2. ML characterisation - Feng Ling was insecure IMHO. I disliked his inner monologue about his feelings for his wife.
3. FL characterisation - There was a glimpse of FL at work but overall I was disappointed that most scenes of FL were related to her relationship with ML. It was as though her existence in this drama is to support ML's journey of romantic love.
4. Duration - This drama was too long for a simple, lack of communication romance. I fast-forwarded once I reached 1 hour 45 minute mark.

Favourite scene
FL took initiative on their first night as husband and wife

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Kisses everywhere indeed

As user Lindaseton mentioned in her review, there are, at the time of this review, four versions of this story. Version 1 starring Wang Zhao Yang & Guo Jing, version 2 starring Zhao Guan Yu & Zhang Shan, version 3 starring Wang Ying Jie & Shi Tong, version 4 starring Song Yubo & Wei fanshu. I watched version 2 (this version) first. I have watched Zhang Shan dramas in the past but Zhao Guan Yu was new to me. What a mighty fine introduction!

What I liked:
1. Romance - Wow, Zhao Guan Yu is the finest stud in vertical dramaland. The kisses between him and Zhang Shan were blazing hot. I echo what is said by a YouTube user - "They bless my eyes with so much intimate scenes. I love it!"
2. FL characterisation - Smart, confident, self-sufficient - all the qualities I like in FL.
3. Styling - Love the hairstyling & outfits worn by FL. Gorgeous!

What I disliked:
1. FL ex husband - He is the stupidest husband ever for agreeing to be cuckold. Double standard - he has no right to be jealous!
2. Mistress arc - Gosh she annoyed me so much that I felt like slapping her. I wish she was given less screen time.
3. ML's grandpa - OMG the twist!
4. Relationship - It's great that ML supported FL by investigating her ex's family. However I wish there were more scenes that focused on their growing emotional connection. Something that would be unique to them i.e. not related to FL's family problems.

Favourite scene
ML answered FL's phone when she was in the shower

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Great acting by Lu Lu Lu in this hidden identity drama

I was in the 'military man' phase after watching So You Also Like Me and The Squadron Leader's Doting Darling Wife. Saw the word 'soldier' in the title on the thumbnail so I clicked 'Play'. I was hoping for a military romance but nope, ML was transitioning from a soldier to a CEO.

What I liked:
1. Lu Lu Lu - I have enjoyed Lu Lu Lu's dramas. Superb acting especially the sad scenes. I was touched by her acting.
2. Supporting characters - I really liked ML's mother because she was nice. ML's assistant was likeable too.
3. FL characterisation - She was smart & hardworking and I liked her.
4. Hidden identity - This trope provided the comic relief in the earlier parts of the drama.
5. Romance - Their first meeting was a meet cute! Sweet romance. ML was smitten by FL right from the start.

What I disliked:
1. Xi Er Li - His acting was too restrained & unemotional. I didn't like it. Despite that, I appreciated his height & handsomeness.
2. The rivalry - The rivalry betwen ML & his cousin was over the top. Sketchy board members need to be fired.
3. Drunk - FL was drunk so much after she had gotten marriage license with ML. I disliked that she was wasted & alone (no drinking buddy) because she put herself in dangerous situation.

Favourite scene
When FL was sorrowful due to passing of a family member

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Likeable couple, super cute kid & interesting antagonist made this drama enjoyable

I am a fan of Zhang Yi Lun from his dramas with Yi La. I have also seen Li Tian Yuan in her drama with Zhang Yi Yang. I was drawn to this drama because of its introductory scene. Overall I liked this drama.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - She was a hardworking, single mum. Even though she struggled in meeting ends meet, she held on to her values & integrity. Li Tian Yuan was convincing enough for the role.
2. ML characterisation - He was warm, respectful & protective of his family. I liked Zhang Yi Lun's acting in this drama.
3. Romance - Slow burn. I liked that they were not strongly driven by lust which is understandable considering FL's single mum status.
4. Supporting characters - ML's mother was great for her warmth & kindness towards FL.

What I disliked:
1. The child casting - It's amusing that the kid seemed big (like aged 1-1.5 years) in the first scene then gradually grew younger. By the time ML met him, the kid looked like a 6 month old child.
2. Antagonists - I hate antagonist that bullies children & elderly. I also thought FL's mother was judgemental & intrusive.

Favourite scene
When FL firmly informed her mother that she wanted to be with ML

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Kindness & patience never felt this rewarding before

I remember the date I watched this drama. It was 2 February 2025, right after I finished watching GOT7 livestreamed concert. Anyway what drew me to this drama was the title & high view count. I enjoyed this drama even though the 'philandering prince of Beijing' title was misleading.

What I liked:
1. ML's characterisation - I liked that he was not CEO but he was rugged, work-with-his-hands guy! He was intense at times but overall treated FL with respect. Cheng Yue was good and sweet in this role.
2. FL's characterisation - I am not a fan of meek FLs but she won me over with her sweet demeanor & character growth. I liked that she never took advantage of ML's kindness. She had just gotten out of a bad relationship & didn't go for rebound/one night stand. Hu Jia Ni did well in this role.
3. Romance - For once, I was glad that their romance developed slowly. Their love language was definitely act of service. Their height difference was big but adorable.
4. Supporting characters - The two mechanics were entertaining.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - I hate men who abused their power at workplace. FL's boss was despicable.

Favourite scene
When ML made a surprise visit to FL's hotel room

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Plenty kisses, strong visuals but story played it safe

Someone wrote about this drama on reddit. Apparently there were 4 versions of this plot and this version was their favourite version. I was intrigued because I had never seen Shi Tong's work before. So last night I watched before going to sleep.

What I liked:
1. Romance - Shi Tong & Wang Ying Jie had a combustible chemistry. There were many kissing & intimate scenes I thought their clothes were going to set on fire. Some sweet moments were present too, courtesy of ML. However I wish there were more discussions between them about their relationship.
2. Acting - I was impressed by Shi Tong's acting. Will definitely watch her other dramas. Wang Ying Jie & Zhang Chi were also good in their roles. Both actors were handsome.
3. Styling - Great styling for FL, ML & SML enhanced their good looks.

What I disliked:
1. FL's arc - Her boxing story was fascinating but sadly wasn't elaborated. I wish director & writer used different approach to tell story of her past because her reason for sticking to her ex hubby was only unveiled in the third act.
2. Antagonists - SML's mistress was irritating & disrespectful. FL's cousin was annoying too.
3. ML's arc - ML's arc was also underdeveloped. I'd like to know more about him as individual. Why was he in fights?

Favourite scene
Makeout session before the auction

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Fascinating forensic medical examiner FL in a well-written romance drama

I was intrigued by this drama because of FL's occupation - a forensic medical examiner. I hadn't watched Zhang Ruo Chen's drama before but am familiar with Wang Bo. I enjoyed this drama immensely!

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - Song Wei Wei was intelligent and self-efficient. She didn't need her husband to solve her problem. I loved how she dealt with the white moonlight, the award and donation. I was impressed by Zhang Ruo Chen's acting. I'll definitely check out her other dramas.
2. ML characterisation - Green flag hero but with a flaw, which should be the way so the character can grow. His flaw is his assumptions about his wife but he learned his lessons. Oh I really liked that he's proud of her wife being a forensic medical examiner, unlike her ex. I liked Wang Bo's acting here because his drama with Wang Ge Ge left me disappointed.
3. Romance - Slow burn. Mostly sweet with slight spice. I really liked that ML trusted FL right from the start of their flash marriage. There was great chemistry between Zhang Ruo Chen and Wang Bo.
4. Forensic - Thank you to the director for showcasing FL at work. I appreciate the forensic work scenes even though there were just a handful.
5. Supporting characters - I really liked FL's close colleague, grandmothers from both FL & ML.
6. Antagonists - I think the main antagonist arc was done well. Bitter ex who also had issues related to inheritance.

What I disliked:
1. Luxury goods - I wish the scene where ML's grandma gifted a designer bag to FL was written better. It gave a little haughty vibe but I know ML's grandma meant well.
2. Wedding scene - I wish FL's grandma was there because it was a very special event. Anyway I didn't like FL's wedding dress as it looked too 80s to me.

Favourite scene
When FL confronted her dean & his niece about the award and donation

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A delightfully sweet & comical time travelling/transmigration romcom

I haven't used my paid iQiyi subscription ever since I discovered vertical c dramas on Youtube last December. Yesterday I browsed my app and realised that I could watch shorts / vertical dramas on iQiyi with my subscription (unlike another OTT platform that I've subscribed too). Decided on this particular drama because of the title 'Lost Memory, Handsome in Panic'. Very delighted to see my favourite actress Zhang Chu Xuan in the first episode!

What I liked:
1. Plot - Refreshing tale of time travel/transmigration. I didn't know where the drama was going to take me after my initial guesses were inaccurate. I just enjoyed the drama.
2. Comedy - This drama was hilarious. Zhang Chu Xuan aced comedy bits once again.
3. Romance - Sweet, sweet, sweet romance with many warm & tender moments. There was a misunderstanding about ML's concealed identity but it was resolved within the next episode.
4. FL characterisation - FL was hardworking, smart and self-assured. I loved her interactions with ML and her sister. She was even kind to a supposedly love rival.
5. ML characterisation - ML was besotted with FL and I could see why. He was kind and supportive towards FL - he became her mentor when she needed help with improving her business acumen. I was pleasantly surprised to see Huang Jing Zhou as the ML. I had seen him as SML in a mini drama - he had very little screen time but his looks captivated me. Huang Jing Zhou gave me Luo Yunxi vibe!
6. Supporting characters - It's refreshing that there is no sibling rivalry in this drama. I loved FL's sister! I also liked FL's parents, FL's supposedly love rival & ML's friend even though they had very short screentime.

What I disliked:
1. Lu Wanqing - What happened to the original Lu Wanqing? What's her story with her family?

Favourite scene
When ML first met FL in modern time. He was spellbound!

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