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Marriage -- A Carousel of Love and Struggles
This drama is a poignant exploration of marriage and family dynamics in modern China, where the rising divorce rate has become a pressing societal issue. In mega-cities like Shanghai, over half of marriages end in divorce, with Tianjin reportedly reaching an alarming 75%. The government's intervention with policies like the mandatory "cooling-off" period for divorce reflects the urgency of this problem. Against this backdrop, the drama becomes highly relatable, delving into the intricacies of family, love, and societal expectations.A Storyline That Mirrors Real Life
The plot centers around Hao You Jia (Zhang Xiao Fei), a pediatrician from a blended family. Her parents divorced when she was young, and her mother remarried, blending two families with children from previous marriages and one from their union. Despite being adults, the six family members live under one roof, dealing with the aftermath of divorces and complex family ties.
Hao You Jia works alongside her husband, Peng Hao Dong (Tong Da Wei), in the same hospital. While she is a brilliant but blunt doctor with uncompromising ethics, he is a charismatic leader well-loved by colleagues and her family. Their contrasting personalities lead to frequent squabbles, further strained by Peng’s devotion to his overbearing mother, who shares a contentious relationship with Hao You Jia.
The drama takes an interesting turn when Hao You Jia demands a divorce. However, due to the new laws and societal pressures, they keep their separation a secret, continuing their daily routines as if nothing has changed. This facade eventually unravels, leading to chaos and revelations that test their bonds and values.
Complex Characters and Exceptional Acting
The cast delivers stellar performances, bringing depth to their roles. Zhang Xiao Fei and Tong Da Wei skillfully portray a couple caught between love and conflict. Their fast-paced arguments and emotional exchanges are engaging and relatable.
The supporting characters are equally compelling. Peng Hao Dong’s mother, initially grating with her pretentious demeanor, evolves into a poignant figure—a lonely woman clinging to her sons out of love and unfulfilled hopes. Similarly, Hao You Jia’s mother, driven by societal pride, undergoes a transformation as she prioritizes her children's happiness over appearances.
The siblings' stories enrich the narrative. Luo Wen Cong (Yu Yi), Hao You Jia’s stepbrother, shines as a resilient action movie double and devoted father to his mute daughter. His twin sister, Luo Wen Hui (Sui Jun Bo), is a sympathetic figure, navigating life as a single mother after her ex-husband’s infidelity. Their bond adds warmth and humor. Meanwhile, their youngest sister, Luo Yu Ting (Hu Yi Xuan), brings gentleness and compassion to the story.
A Subtle Approach to Romance
While the drama primarily focuses on marriage and family, moments of romance add charm. The main couple’s relationship, though fraught with tension, includes genuine displays of affection. Side couples offer lighter, engaging romantic subplots, including a heartwarming age-gap romance and rekindled love between divorced partners.
A Realistic and Heartwarming Ending
The drama concludes on a hopeful note, emphasizing growth, understanding, and acceptance. Rather than a clichéd rags-to-riches transformation, the characters learn to coexist peacefully, embracing imperfections and building stronger bonds. The closing wedding scenes beautifully encapsulate the theme of resilience and reconciliation.
Peng Hao Dong’s reflective words resonate deeply:
"Marriage is not a competition. The best relationship is heart-to-heart, built on trust and understanding. A home is a safe haven because it’s where the person who knows and loves you the most is. Walk into each other’s hearts, become part of each other, and create a warm home filled with acceptance and support."
Final Thoughts
This drama is a heartfelt portrayal of modern relationships, blending realism with compelling storytelling. It captures the challenges and joys of family life, leaving viewers with a deeper appreciation of love, compromise, and connection. Whether you’re familiar with Chinese cultural nuances or not, this series offers universal lessons on what it means to build a home.
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Back To The Future
This drama is similar to Michael Fox's Back to the Future movie in the 80s whereby he returns to his parents' teenage years and tries to fix his parents' meeting of each other. In this drama, Li Jinbu (Sabrina Zhuang) is also trying to fix her mother's choices so that she (her mother) could turn out to be a more achievement oriented person, and eventually chooses the right partner who doesn't abandon her when she has a child (Li Jinbu).Li Jinbu's mother, Li Qingtong (Amy Chen), is a single parent. As a 17 year old high school girl, Li Jinbu (Sabrina Zhuang) is angry at her mother for messing up her own life by not working hard enough while at school and for going out with an irresponsible man who impregnates and abandons her. For unexplained reason, Li Jinbu returns to the time when her mother was also a 17 year old teenager in high school. She determines to fix her mother's life which she figures will eventually translate to the betterment of her own life in future.
However, things are not what she thinks and don't work out how she plans. Through spending time with her teenage mother, Li Jinbu comes to understand the experiences her mother has gone through that has made her what she is today. In the end, she learns to appreciate her mother for her determination to provide a better life for her.
The story is heart-warming and delightful. It depicts school days and youth, family and dreams, friendship and puppy love, growing up and, overall, life. The acting by the whole cast is fabulous, especially Amy Chen, and the cinematography is excellent. The character building is one of the best I've seen. The story telling is simply marvelous. This is a wonderful drama that makes one feel good and helps us to look deeper into ourselves. It deserves our time. Don't miss it.
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Super Cute Chinese Version of the Beauty and the Beast
"The Princess and the Werewolf" is a captivating story reminiscent of a modern-day Beauty and the Beast. It revolves around Princess Qi Pa (Wu Xuanyi), who unknowingly loves the human Li Xiong (Chen Zheyuan) but fears and despises the beastly Kuimulang (Chen Zheyuan), not realizing they are the same person. This leads to comical situations as she tries to escape the Beast World, and her emotions unravel in front of the very person she both fears and adores. In contrast, Kuimulang falls deeply in love with her without expecting anything in return, while she struggles to love only a part of him.Kuimulang seeks to prolong his life by retrieving a "lingzhu" (a power source) accidentally swallowed by Qi Pa five years ago. Now finally finding her, to extract it, he must make her fall passionately in love with him and share a passionate kiss. He kidnaps Qi Pa, hoping to obtain the "lingzhu" one day. Qi Pa, however, constantly plots her escape, sharing her plans with Li Xiong, who is both her captor and confidant. Amidst her escape attempts, Kuimulang must contend with a secretive subversive force that nearly killed him five years ago. Multiple assassination attempts threaten their lives.
Qi Pa, a princess of Great Xia, is a vibrant and open-minded individual with a liberal education. Unlike typical princesses, she is outgoing, possesses critical thinking skills, and understands human psychology. Despite her flamboyant exterior, she's fiercely devoted to true love.
Kuimulang, the King of the Beast Race ("Hua Shou"), is adored by his subjects and bears the responsibility of protecting his clan with his life, a mission passed down for generations. His continuous use of inner power weakens his body, causing him to transform into a wolf at night. When Qi Pa encounters him in his wolf form, she is terrified and finds him repulsive. However, she falls in love with him when he assumes his human form as Li Xiong, unaware that Kuimulang and Li Xiong are the same person. Fearing rejection, Kuimulang maintains two identities. When Qi Pa discovers the truth, it tests the depths of their love.
Qi Pa's love journey unfolds gradually, with her realization of her true home coming late in the story, adding a humorous twist. The villains' motives are typical – the pursuit of ultimate power to rule the Beast Kingdom - and they are known from the beginning of the story. A new villainous character is introduced very late in episode 27, becoming a central figure of dislike. The story wraps up neatly, with characters receiving their due rewards and punishments. Episode 29 stands out as the most touching, where the main characters unite against all odds, and a simpleton general becomes a true hero.
Wu Xuanyi delivers a convincing portrayal of Qi Pa, infusing her character with modernity and charm. Chen Zheyuan impressively embodies the distinct personalities of Kuimulang and Li Xiong, evoking sympathy for Kuimulang's unrequited love. The entire cast has delivered exceptional performances, embodying their respective roles with authenticity. Notably, the side characters have charmed their way into the audience's hearts, and the inclusion of several side couples adds delightful layers of sweet love stories to the narrative.
My Verdict
This enchanting story features modern elements in terms of attire and language. Characters take on various animal traits, from wolves to poisonous snake, cat, weasel, earthworm, chameleon, scorpion, and more, endearing themselves to viewers.
The moral of the story begs the question: should one love someone solely based on their appearance, as Qi Pa initially does, while overlooking the genuine devotion and sacrifices made for them? In essence, Qi Pa values all that Kuimulang has done for her but rejects him purely on the basis of his appearance. Is this fair?
In summary, "The Princess and the Werewolf" is a great watch, offering humor, romance, and adventure. Don't miss it!
Bravo!
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Both Li Yuhu (Tian Xiwei) and Du Bingyan (Bai Bingke) have weddings scheduled for the same day. However, they get caught in a storm and seek refuge in a temple. After the rain subsides, and having their veils switched, they are mistakenly led to the wrong carriages, ending up in the wrong destinations. Initially reluctant brides, they decide to conceal their true identities and plan an escape. To their surprise, they find themselves falling in love with the men they were never meant for and they them.
The plot follows a predictable path, featuring a detestable antagonist and his accomplices. From a logical standpoint, there are moments of inconsistency and naivety. Notably, the antagonist manages to evade justice right under everyone's nose. In terms of acting, the entire cast delivers commendable performances, with Tian Xiwei standing out and Patrick Quan as Ke Shizhao the villain lagging behind -- he brazenly writes on his face, "I am the bad guy" -- with his robotic facial expressions. Nonetheless, the drama offers a simple and enjoyable viewing experience.
My Verdict
While not groundbreaking, this drama has its merits. With endearing side couples, a bit of romance, some light action, a wise mentor who guides both pairs, a straightforward plot, and beloved characters, it's suitable for a family audience.
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Lying or Not Revealing the Truth
Is there a difference between lying and not revealing the truth? To me, there is. Do articulation and lying mean the same thing? To me, they don’t. However, in this drama, it takes a broad stroke to cover the meaning of lying: not revealing the truth is lying, and articulation is lying. I do not agree with the writer and find this as flaw which permeates throughout the story. Having said that, I have still enjoyed this drama because of the male lead character’s frankness, and the female lead character’s diplomatic approaches.One of the many flaws we have in us is we love flattery languages. We often feel hurt when we hear the truth about ourselves. Fang Zhi You (Xin Yun Lai) is a very frank and direct person. He doesn’t like to beat around the bush or use flowery language to flatter; he just says things as they are. To many, he’s crude. Though he doesn’t have a face that melts hearts immediately, Xin Yun Lai’s acting is to the point as a dull, unflattering Fang Zhi You. He maintains a serious looking face with few facial expressions. His ‘no cheating’ quality persuades everyone around him, including Xu Yi Ren (Liang Jie), to trust and love him. Deep inside, he is a sweet and kind man.
Xu Yi Ren on the other hand is very diplomatic. She can defuse a tensed situation with her quick wit and a few kind and diplomatic words. She helps others to save face and step down without escalating matters further. I feel she has been wrongly labelled as a girl who likes to lie. To me, such qualities should not be considered as dishonesty but a very precious diplomatic skill. As a new actor, Liang Jie has played this role very well.
Both Fang Zhi You and Xu Yi Ren have qualities that complement and supplement each other, and enable them to start their love relationship from the very beginning through the end of the drama. Their relationship has never flinched. She is his pillar supporting him all the time without conditions, and he’s always there protecting her. They trust and are devoted to each other.
This is a very easy drama to watch, not too many conflicts to resolve, and a very cute and intelligent little sister to love. There are multiple love triangles, a second couple and an evil sister. The storyline is a bit cliche and some scenes are tropey as expected in Chinese dramas. Not outstanding but sweet and enough chemistry to make viewers feel the love and loved.
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Honor & Dignity
Ip Man 4 is the fourth and latest sequel (most likely also the last) of the Ip Man movies by Donnie Yen.All Donnie Yen’s Ip Man movies take the same format – Ip Man would be challenged to prove his Yong Chun Quan (or Wing Chun Kuen in Cantonese) is just as good as the other Chinese wushu (martial arts). After he has proven himself, comes a foreign power or non-Chinese martial art challenger, challenging the Chinese wushu. All various sects would then unite and try to ward off the challenger. However, during the unjust process, all Chinese wushu falters; Ip Man is the only one left standing and he stands up for all.
In the first Ip Man movie we see Ip Man fighting a Japanese Colonist Karate expert; in Ip Man 2, Ip Man fights against a British boxer; in Ip Man 3, again he fights a boxer, this time the American Mike Tyson; and in the latest Ip Man 4, after proving himself in the San Francisco China Town with the Tai Chi Grandmaster, he stands up to the American bullies and fights a US military Karate expert. And of course Ip Man wins in all the challenges.
Coincidentally, Ip Man 4 was released during the pandemic crisis. Many countries, especially the western nations, have started to blame China for the crisis and demanded hefty reparation costs. As the whole pandemic begins to unfold, the accusation becomes obvious - it seems that most western nations feel threatened by China and the pandemic crisis serves as a perfect excuse to banish China in order to stymie its amazing growth, albeit temporarily. Unwittingly, the story in Ip Man 4 becomes a heroic story standing up against the bullies, and is enjoyed by many.
I fell in love with Donnie Yen’s first Ip Man movie. Donnie Yen has a stoic and calm charisma and portraying Ip Man as a Yong Chun (Wing Chun) Grandmaster, he brings Chinese wushu to its ultimate pinnacle. Donnie Yen is believable, giving everyone around him a sense of trust and security. One can really depend on Donnie Yen’s Ip Man to protect one’s life. All Donnie Yen's fighting actions and moves are just breath-taking, authentic and amazing. With the calm and somber look on his face when under threats, Donnie Yen's portrayal of Ip Man is confident and composed with honor and dignity - an unmistakably proud Chinese spirit. One doesn’t grow tired of watching him. In his traditional Chinese Cheongsam (long robe), Donnie Yen has the best authentic look of a Chinaman whom I have come to love watching.
As Ip Man 4 has become the epitome of East versus West, Chinese versus Whites, The Bullied versus The Bullies, it silently depicts the current standoff positions of China and America. In the movie, it has a short reprise of Bruce Lee when he was still Ip Man's student living in California (Bruce Lee was an American).
Overall, Donnie Yen is indisputably one of the best Chinese wushu master actors. His fighting scenes are authentic and believable. He commands an air of honor, trust and compassion. Watching him fight is perhaps the most exhilarating experience a viewer can enjoy from the screen. For myself, I still consider the first Donnie Yen's Ip Man movie to be the best of all the Ip Man stories.
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Wonderful Acting by Sun Qian
This is a wonderful little drama out of my expectations. I didn't quite like it when I first started watching with episode 1 because I found it kind of cartoonish. But very quickly, the story moves away from the comical acts and becomes more serious without losing the humors. I was glued to the screen and completed the whole drama as it's aired.The storyline is simple and straightforward with not many twists. Even the twists are easy to follow and the results are satisfactory. Although there are some kind of triangular love affairs, these do not impede the main relationship and doesn't leave a bad taste in the viewers' mouth.
Though the setting is outside of an imperial royal palace, it is very similar but at a very small scale; I would liken it to be an aristocratic manor house with soldiers and guards. To become an imperial doctor, Tian Qi (played by Sun Qian) has to disguise as a man. In most Chinese historical dramas when a woman disguises as a man, I'd roll my eyes for how gullible the public is for not recognizing such obvious womanly features in the disguise. Not in Tian Qi's case. I think Sun Qian has the best disguise ever done in this genre. Her chest is flattened, her demeanor is rougher than a girl during the period. With her chubby face and virtually no make-up (at least not obvious), Tian Qi can easily pass as a young boy with no suspicion. Indeed I want to commend how well Sun Qian has played this role. She's hilarious and authentic. I love watching her whenever she comes on screen. I can't say the same when it comes to Ji Heng (played by Huang Jun Jie). The character Ji Heng is supposed to be a ruthless, cold, authoritative figure feared by all; he's the ultimate superior of his region. Unfortunately Huang Jun Jie has not brought out that personality, or he tries too hard to do so by giving the character a stiff, constipated look all the time. What's worse is when Ji Heng meets the love of his life, all of a sudden, he becomes lovey dovey which is totally out of character. Though very good looking, I feel Huang Jun Jie has not performed as well as the other actors in this series. It is such a pity because this could have had a much higher rating had the character being done correctly.
Overall, I still feel this drama worth being watched for its entertainment value, especially performances by Sun Qian.
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Real Wuxia Story Like the Old Days
I’m a wuxia novel fan, and Gu Long was one of my earlier favorite authors during my growing up years. However, I’ve not read this particular novel, Juedai Shuangjiao (Legendary Twins) which is supposed to be a great novel that has been adapted in this drama. When I stumbled across this drama, I was ecstatic because I recognized Hu Yitian and has wanted to watch his new dramas.For the first few episodes, I was disappointed with the quality of the drama. I was not only disappointed with the acting and the overall plot, I found it hard to understand the logic of the characters. Everyone seemed stupid and gullible. The heroes could easily give up their own lives for some very trivial and unreal reasons. They could also fall into the tricks of the same villains over and over again. Everything was noisy with obnoxious and over exaggerated characters. I was stuck at episode 8 and found myself unable to move on.
I couldn’t understand the high rating on MDL; I thought I must be missing something. So I returned to the series and continued. As I began watching it with a mindset of simple logic, and seeing the impossibilities as possibilities, I began to follow the mood and flow of the story, and in fact rather enjoyed it till the end.
The story is a typical story from Gu Long’s novel - a whole maze of characters that can be confusing and hard to remember, the heroes always get the shorter ends whereas the villains triumph (initially), all the pretty girls tend to fall in love at first sight with the protagonist. Admittedly, the drama is tropey and the consequences are as expected. Nonetheless, embracing its shortcomings, I found the drama rather entertaining after I got passed the first 10 episodes.
This is a story of two twin brothers separated at birth, their parents murdered. One twin is adopted by the killers and the other is raised by a group of villains. 18 years later, the brothers meet and are told to kill each other for no reasons provided. The story revolves around the two brothers who go through all the adventures together and separately, and eventually learn about their own story and meet the loves of their lives.
The twins have totally opposite characteristics: one is dull and righteous (played by Hu Yitian), whereas the other street smart, jovial, bombastic and mischievous (played by Chen Zhi Yuan). It is hard to assess Hu Yitian’s acting because the character he plays is quiet with little emotion (he’s been brought up with not much affection). On the other hand, I really enjoy Chen Zhi Yuan’s acting, which is cute, funny and natural. Chen Zhi Yuan has a young boyish face which really helps in his portrayal of Xiao Yu’er (little fish) that brings out his playfulness.
To my surprise, the official sound tracks are very nice. They are composed with an air of authentic Chinese wuxia tunes; the music is soothing and the lyrics are moving.
Overall, I can’t say I love this drama. But to be fair, it is an interesting drama that deals deep into the relationship of a pair of separated brothers, and in the end the righteous wins over the evil.
If you’re a wuxia or Gu Long fan, you may thoroughly enjoy this drama. If you’re not so familiar with the author and his work, you may find it overwhelming and unrealistic. All in all, this is not as bad as I have originally thought. In fact, I have enjoyed the sword fighting and qinggong (wire fu) scenes pretty well.
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Great Characters, Fine Acting, Wonderful Story
When I started watching Blossom, I had no prior attachment to any of the actors. I picked it as a filler between other dramas I was following, but to my surprise, it captivated me right from the beginning. By the fourth episode, I was completely engrossed, and I rated it a solid 10/10. The compelling storyline and standout characters, particularly Song Mo, made me seriously consider naming it my costume drama of 2024.What I Loved
The plot revolves around the concept of a second chance at life, taking different actions to alter past events, and ultimately changing the fates of key characters. While the characters’ previous lives ended in tragedy, Dou Zhao (played by Meng Zi Yi) uses hindsight to navigate her new life. Her strategic decisions reshape not only her fate but also the lives of those she cares about, even though she cannot reverse her mother’s tragic circumstances.
The two main characters, Dou Zhao and Song Mo, were exceptionally engaging, but the supporting cast also stood out. Characters like the grandmother, Ji Yong, Song Mo’s loyal sidekicks, and even the Crown Prince’s wife (who makes a brief yet memorable appearance at the end) added richness to the story.
Li Yun Rui’s portrayal of Song Mo deserves special mention. While this was my first time watching him in a leading role, his acting had already impressed me in Love Like the Galaxy, particularly the unforgettable scene where he reacts with shock as Niao Niao punches herself. His nuanced performance in Blossom further solidified his fine acting skills.
The drama is filled with details and subtle humor that make it even more enjoyable. One of my favorite scenes is when Song Mo and Ji Yong end up together in a bridal carriage. Another standout moment is when the Crown Prince’s wife scolds her husband with sharp wit. These instances reflect the charm and depth of the storytelling.
What Could Be Improved
As much as I adore Blossom, I found the second half of the drama overly smooth for the main couple, Dou Zhao and Song Mo. Once they marry, the narrative becomes more of a romance, with fewer twists and challenges. The pace slows considerably, and the lack of angst makes it feel predictable at times. While it’s heartwarming to watch Dou Zhao thrive in business and Song Mo succeed politically despite his enemies’ schemes, the absence of significant tension left the latter half feeling less dynamic.
A Word of Caution
If you’re planning to watch Blossom, I’d recommend not pairing it with Story of Kunning Palace. That was a mistake I made, as the two dramas share several similarities. For instance, both male leads are estranged from their fathers, while the female leads have troubled relationships with their mothers. Both female leads are also business-savvy, and their respective male leads share close bonds with maternal uncles who serve as top generals. Switching between these dramas occasionally caused confusion for me, so it’s best to watch them separately.
Final Thoughts
Blossom is an easy-to-follow drama with a satisfying storyline and minimal angst. The main couple gets together midway through the series, and their journey afterward is relatively smooth. Dou Zhao achieves financial success, and Song Mo triumphs politically, making this an ideal pick for romance enthusiasts.
The title "Blossom" feels somewhat uninspired compared to the Chinese title, which references a hardy wildflower capable of thriving in any environment—much like Dou Zhao herself, who grows resiliently despite her lack of a sheltered upbringing.
Overall, Blossom is a delightful watch, particularly for fans of romance and character-driven storytelling. While it may not be perfect, its charm and heart more than make up for its flaws.
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Talk and More Talk
When this drama was released, I had such high hope because I had wanted to watch Luo Yunxi as the first male lead in a drama. The initial scenes were beautiful with Luo Yunxi portraying Shangguan Tuo in white robes with a fan. However, 10 episodes in, I was greatly disappointed. The pace of the drama was snail-pace slow with a lot of to and forth dialogues that had been repeated umpteen times. The plot was shallow if at all developed, and there were hardly any worthwhile actions despite its wuxia tag. For me, it’s a great let down.Accordingly, this drama was adapted from a novel, but readers have claimed that the adaptation has almost totally changed the story and definitely changed many of its characters. Half way through the drama, I realized there wasn’t much material to make up the 48 episodes, so the production team used plenty of slow dialogues of ‘repeat and reflect’ to fill up the episodes. The whole story felt like a broken record, going round and round and round, with talks and more talks, no ends coming. The director tried to tell the viewers that Shangguan Tuo (Luo Yunxi) and Chong Xue Zhi (Chen Yu Qi) were the One True Pair and how much they loved each other. Unfortunately, he overdid it by running it through almost 40 episodes just for this confirmation. He (the director) also tried to play with our emotions by capturing our tears (there's a ton of crying). For some reasons, I just couldn’t empathize with the characters, probably because how badly they were developed. I'm sure the gist of the story was beautiful, and I loved the 2 main leads. It's just the composition of the story, among other things, that was not right for me.
Painfully, I stuck up with this drama till the end because I had felt the two main characters, being powerful with their respective cultivation, had great potential in bringing out some real fireworks in combating their adversary hand-in-hand. To my disappointment, my coveted epic scene had never realized and the whole story eventually fizzled into oblivion.
My final verdict – If you’re a fan of Luo Yunxi or Chen Yuqi (Yukee Chen) or Zhou Ting Wei, you may want to check this out. Luo Yunxi, despite his extremely thin body and white face, is an amazing watch from afar, with a fan in hand, hair flying and robes floating. However, if you’re into wuxia and want some action, you’d probably be greatly disappointed because the fighting is pathetic to say the least, as one viewer commented, “No one knows how to fight.” It's a pity that there were so many details in the dialogues (talks and more talks) but they skimmed through the plot. Though it (the plot) thickened slightly for the final 10 episodes, the execution of it was rudimentary and childish.
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Good Story, High Quality Production
When I first came across this drama, I was ecstatic - another xianxia (historical fantasy) story which is one of my favorite genres. But when I checked out the cast, my heart sank. I was disappointed with the choice of the main male and female leads. Over the months, I’ve accustomed to young, beautiful male and female actors. I couldn’t fathom why the directors had selected these two, Chang Chen is in his 40s and NiNi 30s. A kind viewer explained the rationale of the selection to me. It finally dawned on me that such choices are intentional and this drama is going to be great. She is right.Jiu Chen, the God of War, is supposedly 190,000 years old. Had a younger actor been chosen, it may not have played out so well. Chang Chen perfectly fits into the role of Jiu Chen as an ancient god with his stern and serious look; he is emotionless. Compared with the God of War, Ling Xi is a very young girl at 50,000 years old. Initially, I was not very convinced to see NiNi playing that role, despite that she is an amazing actress. However, I came to realize that she is the perfect choice as she goes so well with Chang Chen visually. Had a younger actress been chosen for this role, I think it would have been a mis-match.
As the God of War, Jiu Chen is supposedly not to have any emotions nor to fall in love with anyone. And yet he does. His clumsiness in handling a relationship is most hilarious to say the least. Ling Xi, warm and kind, melts away his harden cold heart. The relationship between the pair is open and loving. As both characters grow over time, the actors fit perfectly into their roles with their maturity and seriousness. I’m totally convinced with the directors’ brilliant choices.
There are a few very lovable side couples. My favorite pair is Si Ming with 13 (her real name). Their relationship is cute, funny and spontaneous. I also love the Yun Feng character, Jiu Chen’s little brother, who is care-free and does not hide his passion for the girl he loves. For her, he would do anything, landing himself in trouble and embarrassed.
I don’t usually fall in love with an antagonist as I do in this drama. The Jing Xiu character is very complex. He is feared but also loved by many, even Ling Xi also falls for him for his apparent kindness. Despite being evil, he is at the same time open about his mis-deeds and ruthlessness. The make-up and costume for this character are one of the most impressive, and Li Yuan is just amazing with his very unique good look.
Overall, this drama has a vibe similar to that of Eternal Love – Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms. Many viewers are confused by this. Some think this is a prequel while others think it is a sequel. In fact, both dramas have nothing to do with each other, except for the similarities of the theme, the background settings among a few other things. Both dramas talk about the heavenly realm with gods and grand palaces, the animal/bird realm, the peach blossoms Shangri-la, the mortal realm, to name a few. Needless to say, both dramas were also directed by the same people.
The OSTs are beautiful and memorable as in most Chinese historical dramas. The editing, sound and visual effects, costumes, CGI are all high quality production, with a perfect pacing and good story telling. Although it has not given me the same deep emotional impression as the Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms has, this is still a very fine production.
I strongly recommend it.
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Most Frustrating and Infuriating Love Triangle
The storyline of massacring concubines when an emperor dies, the absolute power of the eunuchs, the heinous schemes of the various factions in the palace power struggle for the throne, and most of all, a forbidden love that the lovers go underground and the yearning look for each other from afar – all these, while cruel, are intriguing and make a great tragic and somber drama. The trailer looked so good and this was what I had expected. Instead, I was caught off-guard by what I saw -- a slapstick comedy, especially at the beginning.The opening scene is a disaster. I was utterly confused and flabbergasted - is it supposed to be a serious and heart-wrenching drama with pains and deaths, or is it a comedy where deaths are being treated as jokes? Some viewers said this is meant to be a dark comedy. I was not alone; many other viewers were aghast.
Many viewers have come to watch Unchained Love for Wang Hedi after his bombshell acting in Love Between Angel and Devil, and this is exactly what its marketing team is counting on – an exploitation of his fame after his last aired drama. As much as I love Wang Hedi's acting in the previous drama, it doesn't mean I need to blindly extol him regardless of the story telling, actor selection and many other aspects of this drama. My review here is going to be blunt and unforgiving which may not augur well with many fans.
Story: Is there a future for a eunuch and an emperor's woman to share an illicit love, and to elope to live a happily-ever-after life? Xiao Duo (Wang Hedi) and Bu Yinlou (Chen Yuqi) think there is. However, there are many treacherous obstacles they must cross, and heartaches to bear before they can finally find safety. If caught, both are doomed, and will die of horrid deaths. The sense of danger spurs the story on.
The first half of the drama is chaotic, in its writing, editing, and acting, with a supposedly horrendous hanging scene made into a slapstick comedy. As the drama progresses, the whole story becomes a rom-com with the couple going about their romantic activities, while all the other plots become insignificant side stories. Editing is terrible, making an already incoherent script even more confusing and the relationship unconvincing. The actual plot picks up at around episode 23 when the actions thicken and danger looms, and the whole story becomes more captivating.
Acting: Many viewers have given high rating here because of Wang Hedi, regardless of whether the drama deserves it. Others find Chen Yuqi's acting lackluster; most complain about her lack of facial expressions and her unnatural wide-eyed stares. For me, I only have issues with her acting in the beginning. As she gets more into her role, she seems to have improved. However, her expressions and actions don’t seem to synchronize with the situations of the scenes from time to time. The Bu Yinlou character has two personalities: she is very smart, but she acts silly in front of people to fool them. For this, Chen Yuqi appears to capture the essence of the character albeit inconsistently, but she lacks the charisma that makes this character lovable. As for Wang Hedi, his acting is convincing, and his styling is cool. However, how the camera captures his face at times has given him a rather unflattering impression.
Romance: The romance is not a love at first sight, but its lack of emotional development in the initial episodes, probably due to scene deletion, makes the rocket-speed romantic relationship feel weird and uncalled for. Despite their later treacherous encounters, their romance doesn’t capture my heart.
My Verdict
Disappointing, unnatural acting, poor writing, flabbergasted storytelling, dog blood.
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The Surest Thing is Being Unsure
In contemplating this drama, one is struck by its intrinsic uncertainty; every attempt to foretell an outcome based on personal theories is swiftly invalidated. Amid fervent discussions within the MDL community, the narrative unravels like a colossal jigsaw puzzle, with assumptions and theories constantly evolving, only to be refuted in due course. The plot remains shrouded in secrecy, devoid of any prior references, leaving viewers to speculate and generate their own theories.Performances are commendable, with fight choreography leaving a lasting impression. Tian Jiarui's portrayal of Gong Yuanzhi stands out, his wicked smile sending shivers down one's spine. Zhang Linghe's Gong Ziyu exudes an endearing, love-struck quality akin to a teenager in the throes of first love. Lu Yuxiao's Shangguan Qian strikes a delicate balance between reality and deception, leaving the audience perpetually guessing. Cheng Lei's Gong Shangjue subtly conveys secret satisfaction with a telltale quirk at the corner of his lips. Even Omid's portrayal of the ostensible antagonist, Hanya Si, brims with emotional depth and inner turmoil. The costumes are meticulously crafted, and the makeup work is remarkably convincing. The drama also boasts a collection of poignant ballads, expertly timed to heighten the emotional resonance of each scene.
Although the undertones are somber and shadowed, the narrative interjects moments of levity through humor, wordplay, and irony. An instance arises when Yun Weishan addresses Gong Ziyu as "Yu Gongzi," prompting him to retort, "Call me Gong Ziyu," a clever homophonic quip laden with layered meaning. Above all, the story revolves around the romances of various couples. While the first couple commands ample screen time, the second couple receives comparable attention, their relationship characterized by well-defined characters and an air of suspense and suspicion. Just as the audience anticipates a continuation of playfulness, the mood shifts abruptly, veering into darker, more grave territory as the characters confront their would-be assassins, their lives imperiled by unseen poisons.
"My Journey to You" also serves as a cautionary tale on how not to construct a drama. The beginning is amazingly good. It commences with a dark air of mystery, introducing enigmatic characters each with their own strengths, flaws, and hidden agendas. Discussions abound, speculating on the intricacies of the plot and the ultimate antagonist, as every character harbors ulterior motives. By Episode 22, the grand reveal occurs, divulging the whole plot and the mastermind's identity. However, this revelation falls flat as the element of surprise of who the mastermind is has disappeared; the audience has already figured this out in the prior episodes. On top, the supposedly multi-layered scheme by the protagonists becomes not so perplex anymore as the characters settle into their defined roles of virtue or vice, the earlier allure and intrigue fade.
At the end of the story, Gong Ziyu, though growing stronger and less naïve, retains moments of folly. Perhaps most notably, the once wicked Gong Yuanzhi transforms into an endearing figure, affectionately addressing most of his older comrades as "ge ge." The drama concludes with numerous unresolved mysteries, chief among them being the true leader of Wu Feng and the fate of Yun Weishang. These loose ends leave the narrative feeling somewhat deflated, ending with a sense of anticlimax. While a potential sequel is hinted at, it remains unconfirmed.
My Verdict
Despite the drama’s less-than-stellar development, it is redeemed by a cast of strikingly handsome men, from Zhang Linghe to Zuo Ye. Even the juvenile Lester Lin is amazingly good looking. Each one possesses a distinct charm. It is regrettable that Zeng Shunxi makes only a belated appearance with limited screen time.
Though a missed opportunity for a more compelling conclusion, this drama comes highly recommended for its rich entertainment value and the presence of exceptionally charismatic actors.
Bravo! Strongly recommended! Don't miss it!
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Ultra Slow Burn, Amazing Chemistry
This is going to be my shortest review ever! Love Like the Galaxy is one of the better Chinese dramas released so far this year. It is serious and yet so comedic. The acting is spot on though Wu Lei may look a bit stiff when he walks as he tries to look grandiose, but I can overlook this flaw because I love his character so much and Wu Lei looks great. His subtle emotions are convincingly done as he's supposed to be a stoic person. Zhao Lusi is simply amazing here and her character is so lovable and relatable. Overall, a drama well-done and deserves a TWO THUMBS UP!BRAVO!
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Hair Pulling Script
Though not overly exciting, I have sort of enjoyed the first half of the story (season 1) because there is nothing out there to watch. I thought the second half would more or less be the same, continue from the first half. To my disappointment, the writing gets really bad and childish, though the storyline continues. Throughout, I have been suppressing myself from hurling pillows at my computer. And I’m glad it’s over.From season 1, we have established that Jun Wujiu (Li Xizi) is a genius investigator, and he works seamlessly with Cheng Yang (Chen Ziyou), who wears many hats (he is a police officer cum prosecutor cum magistrate - what a conflict of interest here), in solving criminal cases after cases. What seemingly unrelated, in fact all these cases are associated with each other and ultimately, pointing to a couple of villains who are behind all the killings in broad daylight. When the dots are connected, it is not difficult for the team to find evidence to put the villains away, and that’s the boring and frustrating part because of the bad writing. Though the villains are blatant and out in the open, the protagonists become very stupid and do all the dumb things that even a 3-year old wouldn’t do (well, maybe I exaggerated, but you get what I mean). The dialogues become kiddie with a bunch of noise and no substance. The timeline is all messed up (when it’s broad daylight, the dialogues refer to midnight etc.) causing eye-rolls constantly. Glaring flaws and plot holes run every minute. From episode 8 onwards, every episode is a torture – I feel like vomiting blood.
My Verdict
This is a very disappointing drama. There’s no character development, no plot build-up, no epiphany, and no planning because the protagonists are always reactionary. If you are looking for romance, there’s none either (I don’t care so much about romance here). Not one character stands out that makes viewers love and remember. The male lead character, Cheng Yang, is not very impressive though the actor looks very nice in his uniform. Perhaps that’s the only thing I like the most – beautiful constable uniform (call me skin deep).
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