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7
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Witty, Humorous and Happy
Set in the Song Dynasty, Perfect Match follows the unwavering Madam Li as she embarks on a singular mission: securing the best possible husbands for her daughters—no matter what it takes. Widowed and left to raise five daughters, a son, and an adopted daughter on her own, Madam Li’s resilience is tested time and again. Tragedy strikes when her young son vanishes after an accident, leaving his fate uncertain. To make matters worse, the family is ruthlessly stripped of their home and possessions by greedy relatives.
Rather than succumbing to despair, Madam Li instills in her daughters a sense of unity, independence, and fearlessness—qualities rarely seen in women of their time. Her daughters grow into strong-willed, capable young women, standing in stark contrast to the traditionally meek and homebound women of the era.
Determined to rebuild their lives, Madam Li moves the family to Bianjing (Kaifeng), the capital city, where they start anew. Together, they establish an eatery directly across from the most prestigious restaurant in town. With each daughter contributing her unique skills, their business flourishes, proving that perseverance and family unity can overcome any hardship.
A Mother’s Role in Marriage
In ancient times, a parent’s duty extended beyond raising children—it included arranging advantageous marriages. Madam Li is no exception. However, unlike many parents of the era, she carefully selects husbands who will not only elevate the family’s status but also truly cherish her daughters. The daughters, though dutiful, are not passive in this process; each love story unfolds with mutual admiration and heartfelt connections.
The drama weaves together these individual love stories with humor, charm, and intrigue. As one couple’s journey concludes, they gracefully step into the background, allowing the next romance to take center stage. This seamless transition keeps the narrative fresh and engaging throughout.
Characters and Performances
I have no complaints about the acting—everyone delivers their roles convincingly, and I can’t get enough of the main characters.
Madam Li (Ni Hong Jie) – The Unyielding Matriarch
Madam Li is an extraordinary woman for her time—fierce, shrewd, and devoted to her daughters. Having lost everything to greedy relatives, she rebuilds her life through sheer willpower and business acumen. Despite being known as a "shrew" in her neighborhood, her daughters adore her, returning home often for family reunions—an unusual dynamic in a time when married daughters rarely visited their maternal homes. Their bond is a testament to her unwavering love and sacrifice.
Shou Hua (Liu Xie Ning) – The Strategist
The eldest daughter, Shou Hua, is a widow—intelligent, reserved, and deeply thoughtful. A natural strategist, she offers wise counsel to her sisters. She agrees to remarry as per her mother’s wishes, and fate rewards her with Du Yang Xi (Chen He Yi), a brilliant scholar who tops the imperial examination and rises to prominence as a government official.
Fu Hui (Wu Xuan Yi) – The Matriarch-in-the-Making
Married into a wealthy family, Fu Hui’s husband, Fan Liang Han (Huang Sheng Chi), is naive and childlike, often yielding to her authority. Despite living under her in-laws’ roof, she establishes herself as the true head of the household.
Kang Ning (Lu Yu Xiao) – The Sharp-Tongued Twin
Kang Ning, twin to the lost brother, is quick-witted with a razor-sharp tongue. She clashes with Chai An (Wang Xing Yue), a proud and cunning businessman who owns the rival restaurant across the street. Their fiery banter and stubborn personalities make for an entertaining and endearing romance.
Hao De (Ke Ying) – The Pure-Hearted 4th Child
Unlike her outspoken sisters, Hao De is kind, naive, and sincere. She falls for Shen Hui Zhao (Liang Yong Qi), the stern and incorruptible magistrate of Kaifeng. With numerous enemies plotting against him, Shen vows never to marry, fearing for his wife’s safety. However, Hao De’s unwavering honesty and warmth gradually melt his icy exterior.
Le Shan (Huangyang Tian Tian) – The Fearless Youngest Daughter
Le Shan despises the powerful who prey on the weak. Ironically, she ends up marrying Yang Xian (Winwin), a wealthy man she initially detests. Over time, she discovers his hidden vulnerabilities, and their rocky relationship gradually evolves into a deep and meaningful bond.
The Sons-in-Law Alliance
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Perfect Match is the camaraderie among the sons-in-law. They form their own alliance, frequently gathering at Chai An's restaurant to strategize, support one another, and solve both family and external conflicts. It is deeply satisfying to watch a group of intelligent, upstanding men work together, balancing their individual strengths to navigate the challenges that arise. Their interactions add depth to the drama, showcasing the importance of partnership—not just in marriage, but in brotherhood as well.
My Favorite Son-in-Law: Shen Hui Zhao
Among all the sons-in-law, Shen Hui Zhao stands out as my favorite. As the eldest of the group, he embodies righteousness and unwavering integrity. In court, his cold, unreadable demeanor strikes fear into wrongdoers. Yet, in private, his subtle smirks reveal a hidden tenderness, making his character all the more compelling.
My Favorite Couple: Le Shan & Yang Xian
Every couple in this drama is well-matched, but the most intriguing transformation belongs to Le Shan and Yang Xian. Initially despised by everyone—including the audience—Yang Xian evolves into a devoted and responsible husband, while Le Shan matures into a woman who learns to love and respect him. Their journey is one of the most satisfying arcs in the series.
Final Thoughts
Perfect Match is a refreshing, witty and heartwarming drama. It is not a mindless comedy, but a story of resilience, love, and familial strength. Despite the hardships the Li family endures, they stand united, facing challenges with intelligence and unwavering support for one another.
With the addition of their capable sons-in-law, the family gains even more strength, proving that love and partnership can be powerful tools against injustice. Amidst crime, danger, and false accusations, they emerge victorious, stronger than ever.
If you enjoy well-written dramas with intelligent humor, compelling romances, and strong female leads, Perfect Match is a must-watch.
Rather than succumbing to despair, Madam Li instills in her daughters a sense of unity, independence, and fearlessness—qualities rarely seen in women of their time. Her daughters grow into strong-willed, capable young women, standing in stark contrast to the traditionally meek and homebound women of the era.
Determined to rebuild their lives, Madam Li moves the family to Bianjing (Kaifeng), the capital city, where they start anew. Together, they establish an eatery directly across from the most prestigious restaurant in town. With each daughter contributing her unique skills, their business flourishes, proving that perseverance and family unity can overcome any hardship.
A Mother’s Role in Marriage
In ancient times, a parent’s duty extended beyond raising children—it included arranging advantageous marriages. Madam Li is no exception. However, unlike many parents of the era, she carefully selects husbands who will not only elevate the family’s status but also truly cherish her daughters. The daughters, though dutiful, are not passive in this process; each love story unfolds with mutual admiration and heartfelt connections.
The drama weaves together these individual love stories with humor, charm, and intrigue. As one couple’s journey concludes, they gracefully step into the background, allowing the next romance to take center stage. This seamless transition keeps the narrative fresh and engaging throughout.
Characters and Performances
I have no complaints about the acting—everyone delivers their roles convincingly, and I can’t get enough of the main characters.
Madam Li (Ni Hong Jie) – The Unyielding Matriarch
Madam Li is an extraordinary woman for her time—fierce, shrewd, and devoted to her daughters. Having lost everything to greedy relatives, she rebuilds her life through sheer willpower and business acumen. Despite being known as a "shrew" in her neighborhood, her daughters adore her, returning home often for family reunions—an unusual dynamic in a time when married daughters rarely visited their maternal homes. Their bond is a testament to her unwavering love and sacrifice.
Shou Hua (Liu Xie Ning) – The Strategist
The eldest daughter, Shou Hua, is a widow—intelligent, reserved, and deeply thoughtful. A natural strategist, she offers wise counsel to her sisters. She agrees to remarry as per her mother’s wishes, and fate rewards her with Du Yang Xi (Chen He Yi), a brilliant scholar who tops the imperial examination and rises to prominence as a government official.
Fu Hui (Wu Xuan Yi) – The Matriarch-in-the-Making
Married into a wealthy family, Fu Hui’s husband, Fan Liang Han (Huang Sheng Chi), is naive and childlike, often yielding to her authority. Despite living under her in-laws’ roof, she establishes herself as the true head of the household.
Kang Ning (Lu Yu Xiao) – The Sharp-Tongued Twin
Kang Ning, twin to the lost brother, is quick-witted with a razor-sharp tongue. She clashes with Chai An (Wang Xing Yue), a proud and cunning businessman who owns the rival restaurant across the street. Their fiery banter and stubborn personalities make for an entertaining and endearing romance.
Hao De (Ke Ying) – The Pure-Hearted 4th Child
Unlike her outspoken sisters, Hao De is kind, naive, and sincere. She falls for Shen Hui Zhao (Liang Yong Qi), the stern and incorruptible magistrate of Kaifeng. With numerous enemies plotting against him, Shen vows never to marry, fearing for his wife’s safety. However, Hao De’s unwavering honesty and warmth gradually melt his icy exterior.
Le Shan (Huangyang Tian Tian) – The Fearless Youngest Daughter
Le Shan despises the powerful who prey on the weak. Ironically, she ends up marrying Yang Xian (Winwin), a wealthy man she initially detests. Over time, she discovers his hidden vulnerabilities, and their rocky relationship gradually evolves into a deep and meaningful bond.
The Sons-in-Law Alliance
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Perfect Match is the camaraderie among the sons-in-law. They form their own alliance, frequently gathering at Chai An's restaurant to strategize, support one another, and solve both family and external conflicts. It is deeply satisfying to watch a group of intelligent, upstanding men work together, balancing their individual strengths to navigate the challenges that arise. Their interactions add depth to the drama, showcasing the importance of partnership—not just in marriage, but in brotherhood as well.
My Favorite Son-in-Law: Shen Hui Zhao
Among all the sons-in-law, Shen Hui Zhao stands out as my favorite. As the eldest of the group, he embodies righteousness and unwavering integrity. In court, his cold, unreadable demeanor strikes fear into wrongdoers. Yet, in private, his subtle smirks reveal a hidden tenderness, making his character all the more compelling.
My Favorite Couple: Le Shan & Yang Xian
Every couple in this drama is well-matched, but the most intriguing transformation belongs to Le Shan and Yang Xian. Initially despised by everyone—including the audience—Yang Xian evolves into a devoted and responsible husband, while Le Shan matures into a woman who learns to love and respect him. Their journey is one of the most satisfying arcs in the series.
Final Thoughts
Perfect Match is a refreshing, witty and heartwarming drama. It is not a mindless comedy, but a story of resilience, love, and familial strength. Despite the hardships the Li family endures, they stand united, facing challenges with intelligence and unwavering support for one another.
With the addition of their capable sons-in-law, the family gains even more strength, proving that love and partnership can be powerful tools against injustice. Amidst crime, danger, and false accusations, they emerge victorious, stronger than ever.
If you enjoy well-written dramas with intelligent humor, compelling romances, and strong female leads, Perfect Match is a must-watch.
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