Essie

As someone who has watched Asian dramas for years, very few shows leave such a lasting impression. This one was a standout from the very beginning. The plot — with its layers of metafiction, reincarnation themes, and dreamlike transitions between script and reality — felt both fresh and deeply philosophical. It plays with cdrama tropes in a clever, self-aware way while still delivering heartfelt emotion, political intrigue, and beautifully choreographed action.

The female lead is strong, determined, and never reduced to a mere love interest. She grows throughout the story, and although her initial prejudice toward the male lead dragged on a bit too long, it made her eventual trust and transformation all the more satisfying. The male lead, portrayed with stunning versatility by Liu Yu Ning, anchors the emotional weight of the show — tragic, dangerous, and incredibly tender when it counts.

The production is top-tier: breathtaking costumes, sharp dialogue, tight editing, and one of the most memorable soundtracks I’ve heard in a while. Comedy, angst, and satire are perfectly balanced. Even when some characters or side plots faltered, the final stretch brought everything together in such a satisfying way that I forgot all my earlier frustrations.

This is not just a drama, it’s an experience. For those who love slow-burn romance, layered storytelling, and a twist on familiar fantasy elements — this is a must-watch.