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A Lighthearted Yet Thought-Provoking Rom-Com
After the emotional rollercoaster of The White Olive Tree, I was desperate for something lighthearted to lift my spirits. Enter Filter, a delightful drama that had me laughing from the first episode to the last. While the story is undeniably hilarious and easy to watch, it also carries a profound and relatable message: don’t judge a book by its cover. This theme resonates deeply, making Filter more than just a comedy—it’s a heartfelt exploration of prejudice, self-worth, and the importance of seeing people for who they truly are.
The Story: A Magical Twist on Love and Misunderstanding
The plot centers on Tang Qi, a nerdy, color-sensitive entrepreneur who co-runs a beauty company with his two friends. His life takes a turn when he encounters Su Cheng Cheng, a former high school junior, at a party. After a mishap leaves her makeup smeared, Tang Qi snaps a photo and callously remarks, “So ugly.” Unbeknownst to him, this moment sets off a chain of events that will challenge his biases and reshape his understanding of love.
Su Cheng Cheng, still harboring a crush on Tang Qi from their school days, is gifted a magical bracelet that allows her to transform into different characters. Using this power, she begins working at Tang Qi’s company, where her professionalism and contributions earn everyone’s admiration—except Tang Qi’s. His preconceived notions about her cloud his judgment, creating a rift between them.
As Su Cheng Cheng transforms into various personas, Tang Qi repeatedly falls for these characters, only to be heartbroken when they “die” or disappear in increasingly absurd ways (lightning strikes, anyone?). These over-the-top “deaths” are played for laughs, but they also highlight Tang Qi’s growing emotional turmoil. Eventually, he begins to suspect something is amiss, leading to the revelation of Su Cheng Cheng’s secret. The resolution is both satisfying and heartwarming, as Tang Qi realizes that the person he’s been searching for has been right in front of him all along.
The story’s moral—treasure the one around you—is simple yet powerful. It reminds viewers to look beyond appearances and examine their own biases, lest they miss out on something truly special.
The Characters and Acting: Perfectly Cast, Flawlessly Executed
֎ Tang Qi (played by Tan Jian Ci):
Some viewers criticized Tan Jian Ci for looking too mature for the role, but I found him to be the perfect embodiment of Tang Qi. With his nerdy, slightly awkward demeanor, Tan Jian Ci effortlessly captures Tang Qi’s blend of intelligence and social cluelessness. Tang Qi is a man of few words, often blunt to the point of being misunderstood, yet he possesses an inner strength and persistence that make him endearing. Tan Jian Ci’s portrayal is nuanced, bringing depth to a character who could easily have been one-dimensional. His chemistry with Li Landy is palpable, making their eventual reconciliation all the more satisfying.
I’d like to take a moment to clarify what Tang Qi actually meant when he blurted out the words, “So ugly.” At first glance, his comment seems harsh and superficial, but there’s much more to it than meets the eye. Tang Qi wasn’t criticizing Su Cheng Cheng’s appearance or calling her inherently ugly. Instead, his reaction stemmed from his extreme sensitivity to colors and aesthetics. As someone deeply attuned to visual harmony, he was appalled by the cheap, smeared makeup that clashed with Su Cheng Cheng’s natural features. In his mind, the makeup was “ugly” because it didn’t do her justice—it ruined her face.
However, Tang Qi’s social awkwardness and inability to articulate his thoughts led to a catastrophic misunderstanding. Su Cheng Cheng, already self-conscious about her appearance, took his words at face value, assuming he was mocking her. This moment created a long-lasting animosity between them, fueling her resentment and shaping their complicated dynamic. It isn’t until much later, when they finally reconcile, that Tang Qi clarifies his true meaning, revealing the depth of his character and the misunderstanding that had plagued their relationship.
At the same time, it’s important to note that Tang Qi’s initial coldness toward Su Cheng Cheng isn’t just about the makeup incident. His behavior is also rooted in his past experiences with her during their school days. Back then, Tang Qi misunderstood Su Cheng Cheng’s clumsy attempts to connect with him as acts of bullying. Her naivety and overenthusiasm came across as intimidating to him, and he formed a lasting impression of her as someone to be wary of. This misunderstanding further fueled his prejudice, making it difficult for him to see her for who she truly is—a kind, compassionate, and well-meaning person.
Unfortunately, some viewers drop the drama at this early moment (when he blurted out "So ugly"), misinterpreting Tang Qi as a shallow, face-obsessed jerk. This is a shame, as it overlooks the nuance of his character and the broader themes of the story. Tang Qi isn’t superficial—he’s socially inept and struggles to express himself, which makes his journey of growth and self-awareness all the more compelling. His initial comment is less about judgment and more about his unique perspective on beauty, which ultimately aligns with the drama’s central message: don’t judge a book by its cover.
So, to new viewers, I urge you not to let this moment deter you. Filter is a wonderful drama with layers of humor, heart, and meaning. Tang Qi’s seemingly callous remark is just the starting point of a story that challenges assumptions, explores prejudice, and celebrates the beauty of seeing people for who they truly are. Stick with it—you won’t regret it!
֎ Su Cheng Cheng (played by Li Landy):
Li Landy shines as Su Cheng Cheng, a strong, compassionate, and slightly naive woman who refuses to let societal standards define her worth. Despite being constantly compared to her taller, more conventionally beautiful sister, Su Cheng Cheng remains confident in her beliefs: true beauty lies in how a person treats others. Li Landy’s casting was criticized by some for not fitting the “model” archetype, but that’s precisely the point. Su Cheng Cheng is meant to be relatable—an ordinary girl with extraordinary heart. Li Landy’s performance is both charming and authentic, making Su Cheng Cheng a character viewers can’t help but root for.
The dynamic between Tang Qi and Su Cheng Cheng is a highlight of the drama. Tang Qi’s initial prejudice and Su Cheng Cheng’s motherly, slightly overbearing care for him create a push-and-pull tension that’s both funny and touching. Their relationship evolves naturally, culminating in a heartfelt realization that love isn’t about appearances—it’s about connection.
Su Cheng Cheng’s personas, brought to life through the magical filter bracelet, are as diverse as they are entertaining. These include:
֎ Su Miao (played by Luo Qiu Yun), a tall, stunning beauty who resembles a famous model;
֎ Fang Jin (played by Pu Tao), a brilliant scientist with a sharp mind and impressive academic background;
֎ Quan Sheng Tang (played by Wang Hong Yi), a strikingly handsome young man; and
֎ A camel sheep—yes, you read that right—a talking, human-like animal that stands on two legs (because why not?).
Of all these characters, only Fang Jin is based on a real person. The others are entirely imaginary, conjured up by Su Cheng Cheng’s creativity (and perhaps a touch of desperation).
Su Miao is the first persona Tang Qi falls for, and it’s easy to see why. With her model-like beauty and elegance, she captivates him at first sight. This only reinforces Su Cheng Cheng’s belief that Tang Qi is shallow and only cares about appearances. However, when Su Miao “dies” (in one of Su Cheng Cheng’s hilariously over-the-top schemes), Tang Qi is utterly heartbroken. His genuine grief shows that his feelings run deeper than just physical attraction.
In an attempt to comfort him, Su Cheng Cheng transforms into the camel sheep, a bizarre yet oddly endearing creature. This allows her to stay close to Tang Qi and care for him without revealing her true identity. Tang Qi, despite being initially freaked out by the animal’s human-like demeanor, grows emotionally attached to it. His confusion and near-hallucinations over the situation provide some of the drama’s funniest moments.
Next, Su Cheng Cheng becomes Fang Jin, a super-intelligent scientist with a stellar academic record, despite Fang Jin is not a beauty. Tang Qi falls for her too, but here’s the twist: he only loves the version of Fang Jin that Su Cheng Cheng portrays, not the real Fang Jin. This proves that Tang Qi isn’t just drawn to brilliance or beauty—he’s drawn to the essence of Su Cheng Cheng herself. However, in Su Cheng Cheng’s mind, she assumes Tang Qi only likes “smart girls,” leading to even more misunderstandings and comedic chaos as she switches between Fang Jin’s various personalities.
Finally, Su Cheng Cheng transforms into Quan Sheng Tang, a ridiculously handsome young man whose name literally means “win all against Tang.” This persona is another one of Su Cheng Cheng’s schemes to distract Tang Qi from pursuing Fang Jin. While I secretly hoped this would lead to a hilariously awkward gay romance, the drama doesn’t quite go there—though the absurdity of the situation still delivers plenty of laughs.
Through these personas, Filter explores themes of identity, perception, and love in a way that’s both humorous and heartfelt. Each transformation not only adds to the comedy but also deepens Tang Qi’s emotional journey, showing that his feelings transcend appearances and personas. It’s a wild, whimsical ride that keeps viewers guessing—and laughing—until the very end.
֎ Supporting Cast:
The supporting characters add depth and humor to the story. Su Cheng Cheng’s best friend, Lin Yuan (Huang Si Rui), provides comic relief and unwavering support, while Tang Qi’s business partners and Su Cheng Cheng’s family further enrich the narrative. There are no major antagonists, just minor obstacles that are quickly resolved, keeping the tone light and focused on the central romance.
Final Thoughts: A Perfect Escape with a Meaningful Message
Filter is my go-to comfort drama, a perfect blend of humor, romance, and life lessons. It’s the kind of show that makes you laugh out loud while also prompting introspection. The misunderstandings between Tang Qi and Su Cheng Cheng are both frustrating and endearing, reminding us how easily prejudice can cloud our judgment. Tang Qi’s journey from bias to acceptance is a poignant reminder to see the people around us and appreciate them for who they truly are.
The drama also tackles themes of self-worth and societal beauty standards with a light touch, never becoming preachy. Su Cheng Cheng’s unwavering confidence in her own values is inspiring, and her relationship with Tang Qi is a testament to the idea that love transcends appearances.
In the end, Filter is more than just a rom-com—it’s a celebration of individuality, a critique of superficial judgments, and a reminder to cherish the people who truly matter. Whether you’re looking for a laugh, a cry, or a bit of both, Filter delivers on all fronts. Highly recommended for anyone in need of a feel-good story with substance.
Rating: 10/10
Filter is a gem of a drama that balances humor and heart with a meaningful message. It’s the perfect antidote to a bad day and a reminder to look beyond the surface.
The Story: A Magical Twist on Love and Misunderstanding
The plot centers on Tang Qi, a nerdy, color-sensitive entrepreneur who co-runs a beauty company with his two friends. His life takes a turn when he encounters Su Cheng Cheng, a former high school junior, at a party. After a mishap leaves her makeup smeared, Tang Qi snaps a photo and callously remarks, “So ugly.” Unbeknownst to him, this moment sets off a chain of events that will challenge his biases and reshape his understanding of love.
Su Cheng Cheng, still harboring a crush on Tang Qi from their school days, is gifted a magical bracelet that allows her to transform into different characters. Using this power, she begins working at Tang Qi’s company, where her professionalism and contributions earn everyone’s admiration—except Tang Qi’s. His preconceived notions about her cloud his judgment, creating a rift between them.
As Su Cheng Cheng transforms into various personas, Tang Qi repeatedly falls for these characters, only to be heartbroken when they “die” or disappear in increasingly absurd ways (lightning strikes, anyone?). These over-the-top “deaths” are played for laughs, but they also highlight Tang Qi’s growing emotional turmoil. Eventually, he begins to suspect something is amiss, leading to the revelation of Su Cheng Cheng’s secret. The resolution is both satisfying and heartwarming, as Tang Qi realizes that the person he’s been searching for has been right in front of him all along.
The story’s moral—treasure the one around you—is simple yet powerful. It reminds viewers to look beyond appearances and examine their own biases, lest they miss out on something truly special.
The Characters and Acting: Perfectly Cast, Flawlessly Executed
֎ Tang Qi (played by Tan Jian Ci):
Some viewers criticized Tan Jian Ci for looking too mature for the role, but I found him to be the perfect embodiment of Tang Qi. With his nerdy, slightly awkward demeanor, Tan Jian Ci effortlessly captures Tang Qi’s blend of intelligence and social cluelessness. Tang Qi is a man of few words, often blunt to the point of being misunderstood, yet he possesses an inner strength and persistence that make him endearing. Tan Jian Ci’s portrayal is nuanced, bringing depth to a character who could easily have been one-dimensional. His chemistry with Li Landy is palpable, making their eventual reconciliation all the more satisfying.
I’d like to take a moment to clarify what Tang Qi actually meant when he blurted out the words, “So ugly.” At first glance, his comment seems harsh and superficial, but there’s much more to it than meets the eye. Tang Qi wasn’t criticizing Su Cheng Cheng’s appearance or calling her inherently ugly. Instead, his reaction stemmed from his extreme sensitivity to colors and aesthetics. As someone deeply attuned to visual harmony, he was appalled by the cheap, smeared makeup that clashed with Su Cheng Cheng’s natural features. In his mind, the makeup was “ugly” because it didn’t do her justice—it ruined her face.
However, Tang Qi’s social awkwardness and inability to articulate his thoughts led to a catastrophic misunderstanding. Su Cheng Cheng, already self-conscious about her appearance, took his words at face value, assuming he was mocking her. This moment created a long-lasting animosity between them, fueling her resentment and shaping their complicated dynamic. It isn’t until much later, when they finally reconcile, that Tang Qi clarifies his true meaning, revealing the depth of his character and the misunderstanding that had plagued their relationship.
At the same time, it’s important to note that Tang Qi’s initial coldness toward Su Cheng Cheng isn’t just about the makeup incident. His behavior is also rooted in his past experiences with her during their school days. Back then, Tang Qi misunderstood Su Cheng Cheng’s clumsy attempts to connect with him as acts of bullying. Her naivety and overenthusiasm came across as intimidating to him, and he formed a lasting impression of her as someone to be wary of. This misunderstanding further fueled his prejudice, making it difficult for him to see her for who she truly is—a kind, compassionate, and well-meaning person.
Unfortunately, some viewers drop the drama at this early moment (when he blurted out "So ugly"), misinterpreting Tang Qi as a shallow, face-obsessed jerk. This is a shame, as it overlooks the nuance of his character and the broader themes of the story. Tang Qi isn’t superficial—he’s socially inept and struggles to express himself, which makes his journey of growth and self-awareness all the more compelling. His initial comment is less about judgment and more about his unique perspective on beauty, which ultimately aligns with the drama’s central message: don’t judge a book by its cover.
So, to new viewers, I urge you not to let this moment deter you. Filter is a wonderful drama with layers of humor, heart, and meaning. Tang Qi’s seemingly callous remark is just the starting point of a story that challenges assumptions, explores prejudice, and celebrates the beauty of seeing people for who they truly are. Stick with it—you won’t regret it!
֎ Su Cheng Cheng (played by Li Landy):
Li Landy shines as Su Cheng Cheng, a strong, compassionate, and slightly naive woman who refuses to let societal standards define her worth. Despite being constantly compared to her taller, more conventionally beautiful sister, Su Cheng Cheng remains confident in her beliefs: true beauty lies in how a person treats others. Li Landy’s casting was criticized by some for not fitting the “model” archetype, but that’s precisely the point. Su Cheng Cheng is meant to be relatable—an ordinary girl with extraordinary heart. Li Landy’s performance is both charming and authentic, making Su Cheng Cheng a character viewers can’t help but root for.
The dynamic between Tang Qi and Su Cheng Cheng is a highlight of the drama. Tang Qi’s initial prejudice and Su Cheng Cheng’s motherly, slightly overbearing care for him create a push-and-pull tension that’s both funny and touching. Their relationship evolves naturally, culminating in a heartfelt realization that love isn’t about appearances—it’s about connection.
Su Cheng Cheng’s personas, brought to life through the magical filter bracelet, are as diverse as they are entertaining. These include:
֎ Su Miao (played by Luo Qiu Yun), a tall, stunning beauty who resembles a famous model;
֎ Fang Jin (played by Pu Tao), a brilliant scientist with a sharp mind and impressive academic background;
֎ Quan Sheng Tang (played by Wang Hong Yi), a strikingly handsome young man; and
֎ A camel sheep—yes, you read that right—a talking, human-like animal that stands on two legs (because why not?).
Of all these characters, only Fang Jin is based on a real person. The others are entirely imaginary, conjured up by Su Cheng Cheng’s creativity (and perhaps a touch of desperation).
Su Miao is the first persona Tang Qi falls for, and it’s easy to see why. With her model-like beauty and elegance, she captivates him at first sight. This only reinforces Su Cheng Cheng’s belief that Tang Qi is shallow and only cares about appearances. However, when Su Miao “dies” (in one of Su Cheng Cheng’s hilariously over-the-top schemes), Tang Qi is utterly heartbroken. His genuine grief shows that his feelings run deeper than just physical attraction.
In an attempt to comfort him, Su Cheng Cheng transforms into the camel sheep, a bizarre yet oddly endearing creature. This allows her to stay close to Tang Qi and care for him without revealing her true identity. Tang Qi, despite being initially freaked out by the animal’s human-like demeanor, grows emotionally attached to it. His confusion and near-hallucinations over the situation provide some of the drama’s funniest moments.
Next, Su Cheng Cheng becomes Fang Jin, a super-intelligent scientist with a stellar academic record, despite Fang Jin is not a beauty. Tang Qi falls for her too, but here’s the twist: he only loves the version of Fang Jin that Su Cheng Cheng portrays, not the real Fang Jin. This proves that Tang Qi isn’t just drawn to brilliance or beauty—he’s drawn to the essence of Su Cheng Cheng herself. However, in Su Cheng Cheng’s mind, she assumes Tang Qi only likes “smart girls,” leading to even more misunderstandings and comedic chaos as she switches between Fang Jin’s various personalities.
Finally, Su Cheng Cheng transforms into Quan Sheng Tang, a ridiculously handsome young man whose name literally means “win all against Tang.” This persona is another one of Su Cheng Cheng’s schemes to distract Tang Qi from pursuing Fang Jin. While I secretly hoped this would lead to a hilariously awkward gay romance, the drama doesn’t quite go there—though the absurdity of the situation still delivers plenty of laughs.
Through these personas, Filter explores themes of identity, perception, and love in a way that’s both humorous and heartfelt. Each transformation not only adds to the comedy but also deepens Tang Qi’s emotional journey, showing that his feelings transcend appearances and personas. It’s a wild, whimsical ride that keeps viewers guessing—and laughing—until the very end.
֎ Supporting Cast:
The supporting characters add depth and humor to the story. Su Cheng Cheng’s best friend, Lin Yuan (Huang Si Rui), provides comic relief and unwavering support, while Tang Qi’s business partners and Su Cheng Cheng’s family further enrich the narrative. There are no major antagonists, just minor obstacles that are quickly resolved, keeping the tone light and focused on the central romance.
Final Thoughts: A Perfect Escape with a Meaningful Message
Filter is my go-to comfort drama, a perfect blend of humor, romance, and life lessons. It’s the kind of show that makes you laugh out loud while also prompting introspection. The misunderstandings between Tang Qi and Su Cheng Cheng are both frustrating and endearing, reminding us how easily prejudice can cloud our judgment. Tang Qi’s journey from bias to acceptance is a poignant reminder to see the people around us and appreciate them for who they truly are.
The drama also tackles themes of self-worth and societal beauty standards with a light touch, never becoming preachy. Su Cheng Cheng’s unwavering confidence in her own values is inspiring, and her relationship with Tang Qi is a testament to the idea that love transcends appearances.
In the end, Filter is more than just a rom-com—it’s a celebration of individuality, a critique of superficial judgments, and a reminder to cherish the people who truly matter. Whether you’re looking for a laugh, a cry, or a bit of both, Filter delivers on all fronts. Highly recommended for anyone in need of a feel-good story with substance.
Rating: 10/10
Filter is a gem of a drama that balances humor and heart with a meaningful message. It’s the perfect antidote to a bad day and a reminder to look beyond the surface.
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