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Love the drama aesthetics and the homage to Hong Kong 90s films
I watched this drama last night after seeing cuts on Youtube. Two thoughts that appeared when watching the cuts: (i) I recognised the main actor Cheng Cheng and (ii) oh, another mob boss story . I didn't realise FL was Deng Ling Shu until I checked the MDL page. Anyway I enjoyed this drama so much!What I liked:
1. ML characterisation - I noticed the faint similarity between this drama, Captive Love from the Mob Boss (starring Zhang Chu Xuan and Ma Xiao Yu) and No One but You (starring Liu Lan Bo & Zheng Chen Yu). All three MLs were mob bosses and they were aggressive in the pursuit of FL. Out of the three, I liked Liang Tai Sheng the most because he thought of FL's perspectives unlike the other two MLs. This is the second time Cheng Cheng portrayed a mob boss but in this role, he was more ruthless towards anyone who threatens him & his lady love. I enjoyed Cheng Cheng's acting as he was able to portray different emotions of his character.
2. Setting - This story was set in the mid-90s and I love the aesthetics! There was a nice homage to Hong Kong 90s films from a cinema date watching A Chinese Odyssey to colour grading and shots similar to Wong Kar Wai's Fallen Angels and In the Mood for Love.
3. FL characterisation - I loved that she was a working class girl who remained modest and humble even after marriage. She was kind but responded accordingly whenever she was treated badly. I liked Deng Ling Shu's acting in this drama so much more than 'Wild as Hell: The Prince’s Saga , He Is Too Wild'.
4. Supporting characters - ML's right hand man was delightful on screen. I also liked FL's mother.
5. Romance - Slow burn romance. I enjoyed watching ML woo FL. There were many sweet moments with one or two nice kisses. I wish there were hot kisses because both ML & FL were passionate for each other once romance bloomed.
6. Music - I detected familiar tunes in this drama from 'Magic melody' by befour to instrumentals such as 'See the light' by Lim Hyunsik (from Korean tv series 'When the Phone Rings') and 'La valse d'Amelie' by Yann Tiersen (from French film 'Amelie').
7. Styling - FL's outfits were fabulous that I want to wear them. My favourite is the emerald green jacket and midi skirt. ML also looked handsome in the outfits and that hairstyle.
What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - As usual there are always love rival. ML's admirer & self-proclaimed fiancée was delusional. FL's ex was pitiful at first but later on proved to be a scumbag.
Favourite scene
When ML bonded with his mother-in-law
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Great visuals but romance was lacking
I was very excited when I found out that Guo Yuxin was working with Shen Hao Nan on a drama. Saw this drama on Thursday and watched it a day after. I finished it feeling less than satisfied.What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - Yes, finally Guo Yuxin didn't have to cry her heart out for a man! I liked Song Ning for her courage & self-reliance. She solved her problems - definitely not a damsel in distress.
2. Plot - I'd say I never imagined the story would go that way, mostly in a good way. I was entertained throughout the drama.
3. Styling - Ok we know Shen Haonan is gorgeous and the styling from hair to clothes was impeccable. Guo Yuxin's styling was on point too. I love her magenta gown. She looked like a mermaid which made me think of Mermaid Husband (I'd love to see a remake with Guo Yuxin as FL).
4. Supporting characters - Despite the short airtime, I really liked Kang Xu. First impression gives a big impact and oh boy, he did. I also liked ML's mother & assistant. The dynamic between ML's mum & dad was fun to watch.
What I disliked:
1. Romance - For a couple pairing that is visually stunning, the romance is lacking. Yes there were some kisses and handholding but there was little time spent on the development of FL & ML as a couple. Most of the time was spent on FL's battles with her love rivals.
2. Ending - What??? C'mon at least give us a bedroom scene. I know Shen Haonan & Guo Yuxin had done intimate scenes (Your Trap & World Upside Down being my favourite dramas respectively).
3. Work - It's a bummer that we only got to see glimpse of FL's work. Her interview scene was great because the casse study had a personal touch to it.
Favourite scene
FL's interview at another company
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Unpredictable in good way + wonderful arcs for 3 main characters
I am a massive fan of Wen Mo Yan so I was delighted to see a new drama out in the first quarter of the 2025.What I liked:
1. The plot - Wow, I was surprised at every turn as all my guesses of where things were going were incorrect. Making a few historical characters with little known back story was a great move to be creative with character development. It's refreshing.
2. FL characterisation - I liked Ye Ji Nan. She's a history buff which was advantageous to her but she was sensible while exploring. I enjoyed watching Wen Mo Yan playing Ye Ji Nan in modern and historical eras.
3. ML characterisation - I liked Feng Zhi Li. He was a known tyrant but later we saw his other sides. I liked that we saw his baddie side in third act. This is my first time watching We Ji Feng's acting and I was pleasantly surprised by his performance. He was able to express different personas of Feng Zhi Li and overall he was charming.
3. SFL characterisation - Princess Zhi Fan was a delight to watch. She's a capable, smart and beautiful army general. I also enjoyed watching her character development. This is my first time watching Liu Jia Xi's performance and I was impressed.
4. Romance - It was a fun ride at the start since Ye Ji Nan was brought into the royal concubine's body and she had to impersonate. I loved it when she realised that she should seize the opportunity to have a romantic relationship with the King. Yes, there were several kisses but what made me enjoyed watching their romance is the affectionate and tender moments. It was good to see the couple being tested in their relationship due to ML's severe action.
5. Ending - I thought it would go another way but hey I really liked this ending.
6. Stying - The outfits worn by the main three characters were beautiful. I love some of the royal concubine's robes.
What I disliked:
1. Supporting characters - Ling Shan and Yan Ming were underdeveloped characters. I was intrigued by Ling Shan and wanted to see him more on screen.
2. Dubbing - I was dismayed when I heard FL's voice in the first episode. That wasn't Wen Mo Yan's voice. Apparently most characters were dubbed. I wonder why.
Favourite scene
When FL found out that ML knew about her real identity
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Messy revenge drama
I was enchanted by Sheng Yijie's acting and beauty in her drama with Zhao Zhendong, I went on looking for her other dramas. I was delighted to see this drama because I enjoyed her jiejie romance dramas with Ye Haoran and Wang Nan. However I have mixed feelings after completing this drama.What I liked:
1. Styling - I love FL's wedding gown, which matches Sheng Yijie's beauty and style. I love her maroon red stilettos! She wore pretty dresses too.
2. ML characterisation - Wow, just wow Lu Zhi Yi is something else. Ye Haoran did great with this role, which is very different from his previous 'younger man in love with older woman' role.
3. Supporting characters - Xie Mingyu, the actor who played ML's father Lu Hui An is hot! Lu Hui An and FL's aunt were interesting characters.
What I disliked:
1. Revenge arc - This is the second revenge-for-my-abused-mother drama I've watched in one week and the revenge arc is just too messy. There was unpredictability factor but the response to that was just meh.
Favourite scene
The engagement party
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Where is coquettish behaviour???
I liked Liang Si Wei in his first drama with Meng Na so I thought to mysel "Why not watch this drama?". I have watched dramas of Wang Jia Mao & Ma Le Jie. I must say I am disappointed by this drama.What I liked:
1. Acting - Out of all the actors & actresses in this drama, I was impressed by the actor who played Lu Zhi Yan (FL's ex). He was the main antagonist but wow he had compelling presence on screen.
What I disliked:
1. FL characterisation - Another bland, one dimensional character. I find Ma Le Jie gives the same performance in all characters that she played (shy, meek).
2. Romance - Though I generally prefer romance with spice, I do enjoy sweet romance especially with playfulness & affection. Sadly I don't get in this drama - there isn't chemistry between Ma Le Jie & Wang Jia Mao. Plus ML was very cautious around FL throughout the drama so the love felt one-sided.
3. Liang Si Wei - Sadly he was underutilised in this drama. If you are his fan, you can skip this drama because it is not worth your time.
Favourite scene
When FL, ML and Lu Zhi Yan's soon to be fiancée had dinner at Lu family house
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Spicy & funny start - highly entertaining drama
I am glad to have found this page - I watched this drama on 15 January 2025. I am Zhang Chu Xuan's fan and always search for her dramas online because I know I would be entertained. I am familiar with Wang Yi Ran so I was excited to see their collaboration. I was highly entertained.What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - FL was originally an overworked surgeon who fainted in an operating room and when she woke up, she found herself in the 80s, sleeping next to ML. She used her knowledge of modern medicine to earn a living and at the same time helped other women to be empowered.
2. Romance - The very first scene was spicy & funny - I love a take charge FL! I like the pacing of romance development between FL & ML. I know my gal can kiss but damn it was my first time seeing a carnal Wang Yi Ran (previous dramas that I watched didn't have real kisses).
3. Comedy - Both Zhang Chu Xuan and Wang Yi Ran excelled in their roles. I enjoyed their comedic bits so much. ML's right hand man was funny too.
4. Music - Zhang Chu Xuan was cute singing that famous song at the end.
What I disliked:
1. Transmigration - I assumed FL could stay in the 1980s instead of going back to 2020s. It'd be nice if there was an explanation.
Favourite scene
When FL gifted amulet to ML and ML's feelings soon after
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Sweet & endearing romance of a stylish blind man
I remember browsing Dramazone videos on Youtube and adding this drama to my watchlist. I was intrigued by story of blind ML & I thought the actor looked like Fan Zhixin. Finally watched the drama last night and I enjoyed it very much.What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - She is such a kind & endearing character but not a doormat. She did a mistake & immediately apologised and I like that (dislike Mary Sue characters). Zheng Chen Yu was well cast as Su Shi Qi.
2. ML characterisation - It's good to see his character grow throughout the series. Once he realised he misunderstood FL, he apologised to FL & cared for her. I like that his character's blindness is real. Wang Zi Lin gave good performance too.
3. Romance - Slow burn done right with enough push & pull. I like that he felt attraction for FL even when he couldn't see. What a beautiful visual for ML once he regained his sight!
4. Supporting characters - ML's assistant side comments are hilarious! I was genuinely surprised by how FL's stepmom & sister characters were wrapped up. ML's brother character was well developed.
5. Styling - ML had great hairstyle & outfits. FL wore pretty outfits too and I like her casual wear because fit her cool personality.
What I disliked:
1. Blackmail - I actually didn't like that FL's actions after being blackmailed. Glad she found sense.
Favourite scene
When ML regained his sight and saw FL for the first time
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Outstanding drama about hidden identities + older woman, younger male romance
I picked up this series because of Feng Xiang Kun. I loved his performance in another vertical shot drama about FL using her blood to heal ML illness. I must say that I didn't expect this vertically shot drama to be outstanding. I could watch this drama over and over again - this is one of my top 5 favourite vertically shot dramas.What I liked:
1. Bai Yan - Wow, I was impressed by Bai Yan's acting. I have watched Bai Yan's other drama - I remember her face but didn't remember the drama nor the title. However in this drama, she was very convincing as a female entrepreneur caught in family dilemma who later regretted her decision to involve ML. Very good at conveying different emotions.
2. Si Nan characterisation - She's cool, calm and collected but at the same time, she had moments of vulnerability that she let off. I also like that she was never jealous of An Ran when ML first mentioned her name. I like that she's sophisticated too!
3. Outfits - Si Nan's outfits were beautiful. From the red dress, to that grey & pink jacket, all white business suit and the gorgeous green dress - I love all her outfits.
4. Feng Xiang Kun - I enjoyed his performance as a kept man who gradually fell in love with FL. He managed to show different sides of Bai Xi Hao - flirty, serious-at-work, genuine care. The Korean perm hairstyle suit him and made he seemed younger than Bai Yan when in reality, Bai Yan is only 1 year older than him.
5. Shots - This drama was very well shot. It felt coherent throughout the duration, like a movie instead of a compilation of very short clips. 'Fake Love' also gave me same vibe as mini drama 'Destined to Meet You'. The framing and lighting/colour were different from other vertical drama.
6. Romance - It started off as a kept man relationship but gradually became a relationship with genuine feelings and affection. I could sense they were emotionally invested in each other as time passed. There were plenty of kisses and romantic gestures which I enjoyed - they were hot & sweet. Bai Yan and Feng Xiang Kun had blazing chemistry and seemed comfortable with each other.
7. Tropes - This drama explored few tropes: older woman younger man romance, hidden identity, rich woman poor man. They were done well. I particularly like this drama for featuring FL that is more successful than ML as this trope is rare in any East Asian dramas.
8. FL's bro - He's unhinged and villainy but he did have moment of being a good person. I like the actor's performance but can't seem to find his name. He looked familiar but can't recall which drama I've seen him.
What I disliked:
1. FL's ex-boyfriend - His arc could have been better. At times he was like a caricature rather than a real character. Not sure whether bad acting was due to actor's choice or director's instruction.
2. FL's father storyline - I don't sense much value from this storyline to FL's personal or professional life.
3. An Ran-Bai Xi Hao relationship - I felt like Xi Hao still wasn't aware of An Ran's manipulation by the end of this drama. I wish there could be confrontation - I wouldn't mind few minutes more added to this drama.
Favourite scene
The start - smart, alluring & sensual.
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Holiday fling that grew into true love - I ❤️ this drama!
I wrote a review of this drama on subreddit CShortDramas so copied & pasted here.I never paid attention to new releases but when I found out that Zhao Zhen Dong and Cui Yi Liang acted together in a drama, I immediately paused another vertical drama that I was watching and watched Love at First Sight instead. It usually doesn't take long for me to complete a vertical drama but I had to prepare dinner, eat, shower & write 2 posts for r/CShortDramas and finally at 1.30 am local time, I am writing this review.
What I liked:
1. Romance - I liked it A LOT because it was realistic. “What would you do if you met a person who could be THE ONE while on vacation?” - that always in my mind and I totally understand hesitation about long-distance relationship (LDR) when the romance is still new. Distance does make the heart grow fonder for these two.
2. Acting - Great to see Cui Yi Liang in a softer role because she always portrayed a domineering woman or a woman enacting revenge for the injustice she faced in the past. I also liked Zhao Zhen Dong's raw performance because I have not seen him in this type of role.
3. FL characterisation - I loved that she was bold but sensible. I also loved her honesty about her feelings and expectations. It's great that we got to see FL at work. She was a capable lawyer but most importantly a great friend.
4. ML characterisation - Yes, another ML not a CEO. He was a gentleman - he respected her wishes not to discuss LDR. I also loved that he was strategic by sending care packages. That last “courier” was touching.
5. Styling - Cui Yi Liang always wear fabulous clothes in most of her short dramas I have seen. She was gorgeous in this drama. ZZD had various types of outfits from laidback handyman look to the more sophisticated suit. Well you know you gotta dress well when meeting the parents.
6. Language - Aaaaawwww another vertical drama with significant Cantonese dialogue. Loved hearing ZZD speaking Cantonese.
7. Proposal - Aaaaaawwww so sweet. I loved it that both had the same idea but FL popped the question first.
What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - Mei who was sister to ML's friend. She took advantage of ML when he was drunk and that is just unacceptable. If roles were reversed, it'd be a massive fuss. Anyway I was glad that he noticed before it was too late & told her that they were no longer friends.
Favourite scene
Last “courier” for FL
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Wonderfully written FL, ML and their romance story
I watched this drama during my first month of vertical drama discovery, back on 17 December 2024. I totally forgot about this drama until I watched Wang Kaimu's drama that co-starred Guo Yuxin. I decided to submit this drama as MLD New Title so MDL users can find and enjoy this drama.What I liked:
1. Intro scene - One of the best because it set the tone and vibe of the drama. I liked ML's response to his assistant regarding the rumour.
2. ML's characterisation - He was mysterious at first but protective of his wife. Liked that he trusted her without any doubts. It's great to see ML that sets clear boundaries with other women.
3. FL's characterisation - Smart and resilient, thanks to her upbringing. She's also protective of her husband. I liked that she knew how to stand up to bullies.
4. Romance - They treated each other with respect even though their relationship was not a love match. They talked about consent! I like their sweet and cute playful banter. He even made breakfast for his wife.
What I disliked:
1. FL's adoptive family - Manipulative.
2. Green tea - Devious and just annoying.
Favourite scene
When ML took care of drunk FL
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Sassy FL, sweet ML, smart kid...what's not to like about this drama?!
Found this drama while perusing Youtube channel. I was intrigued by ML being a gangster boss so I watched this drama.What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - Shen Zhu Xin was sassy, smart & funny. I liked how she bonded quickly with the kid. Song Yu Jia excelled in this role. I liked her reaction upon finding out the truth about the daughter & I also liked her decision to be apart while figuring things out.
2. Romance - Their kissing scenes were hot but what I enjoyed most was the progress of their relationship from strangers to co-parents then lovers.
3. Outfits - ML looked damn fine and handsome in all his outfits. I especially loved the all black ensemble he wore when his love rival treated them to lunch.
4. ML characterisation - Despite his background, he was a sweet man. It's refreshing to see a loving single dad with full custody of his child on vertical drama. I really liked that he was respecful of FL and didn't coerce or threaten her to forgive him. Cheng Cheng was great in this role as he was able to portray different sides (tough boss, caring father, sweet lover) of his character. His voice & physicality reminded me of Korean idol-actor Ok Taecyeon.
5. Supporting characters - I liked the daughter and ML's right hand man. They were such delight to watch!
6. Prejudice - It's great that writer demonstrated different types of prejudice e.g. poor person, kid brought up by single parent, former gangster.
What I disliked:
1. FL's family - Another drama with bad family members. The arc was short but that restaurant scene was entertaining.
Favourite scene
The first restaurant scene in which FL was introduced to ML & his daughter
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Well written mystery drama with spectacular performances & beautiful cinematography
I am a Huang Bo fangirl. I was ecstatic to see this drama cast list a few weeks ago because I love Zhao Xi Xi's acting while Ma Xiao Yu's acting is growing on me. Thank you to Jwells for sharing the links. I just completed the drama and wow, wow, wow I am thoroughly impressed.What I liked:
1. Writing - Amazing screenplay that kept me guessing throughout the series. At first I thought this could be a soul swap drama but nope, I was wrong. The drama made me ponder the conflicts that exist in this drama's third act.
2. Acting - Wow, spectacular acting by Zhao Xi Xi, Ma Xiao Yu, Huang Bo and the actress who played mother to both brothers. They were immersed in their roles. I giggled a bit during the drama because Huang Bo essentially played a Sleeping Beauty. I was delighted we still got to see Huang Bo's performances after the tragedy happened.
3. Dynamics - I loved that this drama explored the dynamics between the brothers, between mother and son, between Zhi Xia and Hao Nan and between Zhi Xia and Hao Xun.
4. Romance - There were many hot kisses and intimate scene in this fast-paced mystery drama. The romantic scenes between Zhi Xia and Hao Nan brought me back to Bu Bu Shen Xian (perhaps a parallel universe where Han Qing & Feng Si Qian had more happy moments).
5. Hao Xun characterisation - What a joy for me to see Ma Xiao Yu portray such a complex character and in the presence of Huang Bo (I know he could nail the role of Hao Xun if he had chosen it). Hao Xun is my favourite Ma Xiao Yu's role.
6. Ending - Endings do not have to be neat. I liked how the writer and director chose this ending as it is in line with the vibe of the drama.
7. Editing - Beautiful cinematography that made this drama feel like a wonderfully crafted indie film. I also liked the pacing.
What I disliked:
1. Secret - Judging by the ending, Zhi Xia was kept in the dark. I don't like that!
Favourite scene
The introduction. DAMN, I wasn't expecting it!
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Electric chemistry between the leads led to my enjoyment of angst-filled melodrama
I watched this drama a few weeks ago when I was in vertical drama slump. Saw that Bai Yan and Wang Yi Ran were the leads so I clicked Play on my iQIYI app. Wow, what a rollercoaster ride. I certainly experienced different emotions but overall I like this drama. I have watched Bai Yan & Wang Yi Ran's other collaboration but I like this one more.What I liked:
1. Acting - I had never seen Wang Yi Ran cried so much until I watched this drama. Brilliant performances by both him and Bai Yan. Amazing chemistry and I think they brought out the best out of each other.
2. Angst - I don't usually enjoy angst-filled melodrama but this one is an exception because of the acting.
3. FL characterisation - I didn't like that she staged a cheating scene to break up with ML in order to protect him. However her character grew on me once we learned about her struggles. I liked that she was adamant about clearing her father's name.
4. ML characterisation - Pitiful lover who later became vengeful but mellowed down once he calibrated the situation.
5. Romance - Tumultuous post divorce. The tension was high once FL reappeared in ML's life and what a love journey. I could sense love and passion between them two.
6. Supporting characters - I liked their child and FL's father.
What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - ML's family friend / supposedly fiancee was annoying jealous b. Daddy's princess who thought she could get away with bad things. Her father / ML's benefactor was cunning too. I disliked him for being selfish.
2. ML's action - I thought it was silly that he never knew about the downfall of FL's family much earlier.
Favourite scene
When ML learned the truth about FL's situation
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Yowza, spicy drama but a lot of family mess
This drama made it to my watchlist when it was released but I kept forgetting to watch it until it appeared on IQIYI. I decided to watch it few days ago and I must say what a wacky drama.What I liked:
1. Styling - Zhang Yu Tian was gorgeous and the outfits she wore were fantastic. I loved the red dress she wore at the start. Her black and white dress also matched with Zhang Bei Xi's outfits. He got great clothes too.
2. Romance - Steamy with gazillion kisses. They were hot for each other. That shower scene yowza!
3. Acting - I enjoyed performances by both leads and Wen Zhi Cheng. Combustible chemistry between Zhang Yu Tian and Zhang Bei Xi. Damn, I wonder what Lin Rui Xue thought of this drama. Anyway I think there is implicit trust between ZYT & ZBX since this isn't their first collaboration.
4. Supporting characters - I liked ML's assistant for his loyalty. FL's friend was good too.
5. FL characterisation - I liked that she didn't give a rat's ass about wealth especially during the search for long-lost heiress. I loved that she called the police for the donation fraud.
What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - Too many baddies including family members. FL's family was horrible for abandoning FL after DNA test while ML's family was controlling. Xiao Xiao was insecure woman always jealous of FL. Jin Ming Yue was possessive.
2. Third arc - The split personality arc was introduced in the last 12 episodes. I wished it was introduced in second arc to give some breather.
Favourite scene
Shower scene and morning after
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Great kissing scenes but bland acting by supporting cast
My friend thehepburn notified me of this vertical drama and the different versions back in December. I got bored on Chinese New Year so I looked up iQIYI and found this drama. I liked it but I love version 1 with Wang Chen Peng & Lin Zi Xuan.What I liked:
1. Romance - There were plenty of intimate scenes in this drama. FL often got pushed to the bed but my favourite scene is when she took charge. I loved it when they were at ease with each other. Hand holding was adorable.
2. Acting - Xia Ning Jun & Yu Yu Tong gave a good performance. They were a gorgeous couple & had sizzling chemistry. I also liked He Lian Fei's performance - his aura was as strong as the main leads
3. FL characterisation - This version of FL teased ML a lot, great to see her flirt with hubby. She was also cool & collected.
4. ML characterisation - I liked his protectiveness over ML. He was smart & observant - his reactions towards FL's quips were adorable.
5. Styling - Both of them were elegant. Their outfits really elevated them to look like a power couple.
6. Supporting characters - It was great to see Wen ge ge given airtime. That scene when he met FL after the debacle was touching. I also liked Lu Jing Huai in this version. He seemed level-headed.
What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - Yan Zhao was pathetic for playing victim.
2. Acting - The supporting cast gave rather bland performances. In the first version, I felt strong emotions when FL's biological mother and Yan Zhao appeared on screen. In this drama, they felt insignificant.
Favourite scene
Bathtub scene
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