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A Real Chinese History Drama
This is the story of Li Chu (Tang Dynasty Emperor Daizong) and it is divided into 2 seasons with 60 and 32 episodes respectively. For this drama, it is during the reign of his grandfather Emperor Xuanzong (712-756 AD) and later the reign of his father Emperor Suzong (756-762 AD). The time was a tumultuous period of Chinese history. There were the An Lushan Rebellion, the loss of Chang’an to the rebels, the escape of the royal family, the capture of Li Chu’s consort by the rebels, power struggle, usurpation, filicides and fratricides. Many of these historical events and important figures are depicted in the drama, and it’s an enthralling watch.The drama romanticizes Li Chu’s and his favorite consort, Shen Zhen Zhu’s love affair and their devotion for each other. Understandably, some of the events may not be true historically but only for dramatic effect. This has been done rather well with few noticeable plot holes. However, there are also many tropes and clichés. Some of the logic seems to be over simplistic and unrealistic. Some historical characters are depicted as villains, cunning and sinister. Li Chu (Ren Jialun) and Shen Zhen Zhu (Sally Jing) are living in a dangerous environment that they both have to tread extremely carefully with every step they move and every word they say. One wrong move or word would immediately lead to their deaths. It is this angst that has captured the viewers attention throughout the drama.
Ren Jialun’s acting is acceptable in this drama. In fact, he’s rather convincing as the character Li Chu, except he may not look his best in armor and helmet (his head looks weird in the helmet). However, I’m not so comfortable with Sally Jing, and not very impressed by the Shen Zhen Zhu character that she plays despite she (Shen Zhen Zhu) is supposed to be very intelligent; time and time again, Shen Zhen Zhu is fooled by her own cleverness and that has created a lot of frustration over the character for viewers. I also find the pairing of Ren Jialun and Sally Jing not ideal as Ren Jialun has a small boyish face whereas Sally Jing (she has a large face) looks very mature with disproportionately large eyes laced with plastic brush-like eye lashes. There’s hardly any chemistry between the duo.
The side couple story is sweet and heart wrenching. Lin Zhi (Jennifer Shu) and Li Tan (Qin Jun Jie) are the saddest couple as Lin Zhi’s experience is very real to many women who have to live through such pain everyday and she is totally relatable. Jennifer Shu’s portrayal is wonderful and very convincing. Qin Jun Jie’s performance portraying Li Tan as an impulsive man is equally laudable. This pair has wonderful chemistry together and their story is painful. Despite Lin Zhi may not have been a real figure historically (Li Tan is real as Li Chu's younger brother), I find the side couple story more compelling.
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The general tone of this drama is somber. Apart from some flaws here and there, there are also some hilarious moments that are really fun to watch. Overall, this is a fine drama based on real events, but the story interjected with too much fantasy may have been a bit overdone. After completing the 60 episodes, I find myself needing a break before continuing on to season 2. I wish the series had not been this long.
This is a good watch for history buff if you don't mind some added fantasy.
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Fabulous Acting, Great CGI, Great Story
This is one of the very few dramas that I find so relaxing and enjoyable. It is very funny and yet not comical. The humors come mostly from the marvelous acting, the dialogues and the dynamics between the characters. As this is a drama revolving around supernatural phenomena, the CGI here is simply top-notched. This drama is the third season of the Wu Xin series. Despite this, the timeline is a lot earlier than the previous two series, setting in the Tang dynasty period. One doesn't need to watch the previous two seasons to understand this one; everything is explained clearly and flows nicely. This drama stands alone as a complete series.Elvis Han (plays Wu Xin) is a marvelous actor. He has an air of maturity and provides stability in every situation he's in, and yet he doesn't lack that humorous and playful demeanor. I really enjoy all his scenes. As a man with no heart, (his name Wu Xin literally means no heart in Chinese), he's an immortal. The use of homophone and puns with his name is hilarious as the phrase wu xin can also mean "unintentional". But Wu Xin is so fed up with living forever that he contracts killers to kill himself as he has not been successful in doing so himself. His journey in seeking his own death is simply so outrageous and funny. I really enjoy the parts when Wu Xin is possessed by Liu Xuan Hu making him taking opposite actions and bickering within himself. The scenes are so funny and Elvis Han is fabulous in acting out both characters at the same time.
Comes the girl that falls for him, and eventually he for her. Chen Yao (aka Sabrina Chen) plays both roles as a twin girl in Liu Qing Luan and her twin brother in Liu Xuan Hu. With a slender physique, Chen Yao's portrayal of Liu Xuan Hu is amazing as she looks like a weak, sickly, feminine boy who excels academically. No one knows the talented scholar has an identical twin sister who helps settle scores for him. One really cannot tell if Liu Xuan Hu is a boy or a girl, even Wu Xin is confused; he has treated Liu Xuan Hu as a boy when in actual fact it's Liu Qing Luan's disguise. The discovery process is so funny, and Elvis Han's expression of surprise is an outstanding acting. Switching in and out of her role as a male and female character, Chen Yao has done a fantastic job. Bravo to her amazing acting.
In their quest to seek death for Wu Xin and cure for Liu Xuan Hu sickly body (what an irony), they encounter mysteries and crimes. Every event is related to another and unfolds nicely over time, usually through medium and "fa shu" delivered by the Taoist master. The initial unseen dark force that seems to mastermind everything turns out to be a previous acquaintant of Wu Xin. Their relationship, dynamics and dialogues are just a joy to watch. The seemingly unseen fearsome and mysterious character suddenly becomes a person with a cartoonish looking mask. Many of the characters that seem to be sinister in the beginning turn out to be harmless. One of my most enjoyable moments is watching Elvis Han handling a baby; he's such a pro and the scenes where both powerful fa shi, Wu Xin and Bai Liu Li, rendered helpless by a crying baby is just hilarious.
As expected, when an immortal falls in love with a mortal, how the ending would be. As Liu Qing Luan ages and finally dies in Wu Xin's arms, Wu Xin is still as youthful but the pain he is suffering is immeasurable, though this is the umpteenth time he is going through it. Each time, the pain of loss of a loved one is new and unforgettable for him. The only way to relieve himself from all these pains is not through death (which he can't die) but through letting go. Finally, Wu Xin realizes that he needs to forget after every life that leaves him, and to start afresh. That's the only way to continue living to eternity.
Oh, have I mentioned the sound tracks (OSTs)? They are very good. Love them!
Don't be misled by the low rating. This drama should have received a much higher rating had it not because English subs are not available at the moment of its airing. Many non-Chinese speaking viewers are unfortunately not able to enjoy this fine drama.
For me, this drama is unexpectedly good. If you can understand Chinese, or able to find English subs, do watch it. It's a drama that would make you laugh because of the funny dialogues and human to human dynamics. The mystical supernatural phenomenon is intriguing, and most importantly, great acting and great story telling make this a must-watch drama.
Two thumbs up!
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A Heartfelt Ode to Macau
Begin Again is a charming drama aired during the celebration of the 25th anniversary of Macau's return to China after over 400 years of Portuguese rule. Beyond being a simple drama, it serves as a love letter to Macau, showcasing the city’s idyllic lifestyle, unique culinary heritage, and cultural blend of East and West. Macau is also a unique confluence of Mandarin and Cantonese, and the drama beautifully highlights this linguistic duality, adding depth and authenticity to its portrayal of the city.Set against Macau’s slower-paced lifestyle—a stark contrast to the hustle of nearby metropolises like Hong Kong and Shenzhen—the series weaves its story through vibrant visuals of local delicacies, historic landmarks, and contemporary attractions. Its promotional intent is clear, and it delivers beautifully on this front.
Storyline
The narrative takes its time to introduce the four main characters, whose chance meetings evolve into meaningful connections. While the overarching plot takes a backseat to Macau’s scenic and cultural showcase, the character interactions provide a gentle framework for the drama’s progression.
֍ Mai You Ge (Amy Chen): An advertising executive in Macau to oversee a promotional video project for an international hotel. Lost in a foreign city where she doesn’t speak the language, she meets Xu Jun Le (Sunny Sun), a charismatic local who doubles as her informal guide and companion.
֍ Chen Jia Hui (Zhong Chu Xi): An art director and artist representing Macau’s glamorous and artistic side. She crosses paths with Han Jun Hao (Elvis Han), a professional race car driver in town for the thrilling Macau Grand Prix. Their first encounter—a spontaneous and adrenaline-fueled motorcycle race—sets the stage for a story brimming with speed and passion.
֍ The third and quirkier subplot involves a hotel manager who finds herself babysitting an 8-year-old Eurasian boy—a piano prodigy preparing for a recital.
Each storyline feels secondary to Macau itself, which remains the true star of the show.
What Worked
The drama shines in its portrayal of Macau as a city of contrasts—new and old, glamorous and traditional, East and West. The slow-paced, idyllic lifestyle is a refreshing escape, and the sumptuous local cuisine is almost a character of its own.
֍ Cultural Representation: Through Mai You Ge’s wide-eyed exploration, viewers are treated to a culinary and cultural feast. Her onscreen enthusiasm for food is contagious.
֍ Character Diversity: Each character offers a different lens on Macau. Chen Jia Hui embodies sophistication and high society, Han Jun Hao captures the adrenaline-pumping excitement of the Macau Grand Prix and the city’s thrill-seeking side, and Mai You Ge represents those yearning to escape the chaos of modern life. However, the standout is Xu Jun Le (Sunny Sun), whose carefree, carpe diem attitude is infectious. His simple yet rich life philosophy resonates deeply.
֍ Language Differences: Though both Mandarin and Cantonese are considered Chinese, their spoken forms are vastly different—almost like separate languages. The drama cleverly highlights the nuances of these differences, often using them as a source of humor. Misunderstandings due to language barriers and differing terminology provide moments of levity and authenticity, giving viewers insight into the cultural and linguistic richness of Macau.
֍ Cinematography: The city is beautifully shot, with an emphasis on its blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. The Grand Prix scenes, in particular, are brimming with energy, capturing the electrifying rush of high-speed racing and the iconic atmosphere of the event.
What Could Be Improved
While the child actor playing the young Eurasian boy performs admirably, his babysitter Casey suffers from awkward and stilted dialogue. Additionally, Isabella (Lisa-Marie Tse) feels overly exaggerated, making her scenes slightly uncomfortable to watch.
Final Thoughts
Don’t expect a gripping or intricate plot from Begin Again—its primary goal is to promote Macau, and it excels in this role. The lighthearted stories of the characters serve as a vehicle to explore the city, its cuisine, and its culture. The Grand Prix scenes add a much-needed dose of adrenaline, and the language differences inject humor and authenticity.
More than just a drama, Begin Again serves as an invitation to visitors and expatriates alike to take a break from their exhausting "996" work lifestyle. It even subtly encourages the idea of moving to Macau for a life inspired by carpe diem—a slower pace filled with rich experiences and simple joys.
At its heart, Begin Again delivers a powerful reminder: the most important part of life is not about results, and it’s not just about the journey—it’s about the company we keep. The last two episodes are especially moving, as they highlight the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and making changes when life isn’t fulfilling. As Einstein put it, “If you keep doing the same thing over and over again, it will not give you a different outcome.”
For anyone curious about Macau or simply looking for a cozy, picturesque watch with a touch of high-speed excitement, Begin Again is worth your time.
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Love Story between a Mortal and an Immortal
This drama starts off very good – beautiful actors, beautiful costumes, interesting story line. After the first couple of episodes, it begins to go all over the place. Poor script writing, plenty of plot holes, editing flaws (they even photoshop an actor's face onto another), confusing acting from the female lead, among others.I was initially put off by Fu Jiuyun (Zheng Yecheng) for his flamboyance, especially towards Qing Chuan (Zhao Lusi); his hands are all over her and she doesn’t seem to care. In fact, she gives the impression of liking such attention – being teased and pinched by Fu Jiuyun. As a Princess, Yanyan is dignified, determined and worshipped by all. In her disguise as Qing Chuan, a maid servant under Fu Jiuyun, waiting for her revenge, she has a total change in character. She loses her initial charisma which I feel is a poor script writing and also poor acting. Though I like Zhao Lusi as an actor and I like her other dramas, I don’t feel she fits into this Qing Chuan character very well. Zhao Lusi is cute and can be silly, but her acting is confusing as the Qing Chuan character who is supposed to be dignified, determined and strong. Zhao Lusi doesn’t have the charisma a princess normally exudes. On top of that, Zhao Lusi tends to take a long pause before she starts talking. It really feels weird for me that she’s not spontaneous in answering even the most trivial questions. The only consolation I find is she pairs very well with Zheng Yecheng visually.
Zheng Yecheng has a layback carefree spirit to him. With his outrageously gorgeous face with soft features, acting as a celestial being with no worldly concerns, Zheng Yecheng fits perfectly as the Fu Jiuyun character. I love the scenes of him gazing at Qing Chuan with those loving eyes. One can really feel his love for her, unreserved and unconditional. He has great chemistry with Zhao Lusi.
There is a lot of illogical dialogues and scenes, even the logic itself is weird. Despite the poor storytelling, I find the costumes to be intriguing with great details. I love Fu Jiuyun’s simple white gowns. I also love those sophisticated gowns worn by Yanyan especially the gown she dances in. The sound track that plays whenever Jiuyun longs for Qing Chuan or vice versa is beautiful and heart-wrenching.
There is also a couple of scenes I love the most. The first one is the scene of Yanyan dancing to the song composed by Fu Jiuyun. The scene is so beautiful and breathtaking. The second scene is the very last scene when Qing Chuan runs towards Fu Jiuyun under the peach blossom tree. That scene is celestial and can only be found in legend.
The final episode is a lazy ending. It seems that the whole thing is just a dream by Yanyan as a little girl, or is it her reincarnation, or is it a parallel dimension thing? It’s confusing. The weirdest thing is our female lead just goes poof and reappears with her love in a different dimension.
I would watch this drama for Zheng Yecheng if you’re a fan. For me, he’s the only thing that keeps me going in completing the whole series.
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Dark Humor
This is a dark comedy movie. Despite winning the Oscar with 4 awards, I can't say I like it. The acting is fine, so are many other movies. This movie depicts the great divide between the haves, and the don't haves. It also shows how easy it is to forge any documents in today's digital world. And how the unscrupulous can cheat their way out in a world that demands paper qualifications.I have to admit I do enjoy watching how the family of four get themselves out of their predicament living in a squalid condition to live in a multi million dollar home. But as the story unfolds, I sense more stormy waters ahead. As expected, the story takes on a dark turn, becomes psychopathic and murderous.
My verdict? This is not my cup of tea. As much as I'd love to have an Asian movie to receive the Oscar, I really can't say this is it.
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Tropey but Enjoyable, Great Acting
The storyline of Romance of a Twin Flower sounds tropey – fall off cliff, switch identity, amnesia, an egregious antagonist, an admirer turns deadly, and more – but the execution of it is excellent with intact scriptwriting, directing and acting. The setting is authentic, the costumes are nicely done and beautiful, the dialogs are as expected, and the logic is sound. Most of all, the chemistry of the main couple is good and believable.The drama opens with Nie Sangyu (Peng Xiaoran) falling off a cliff. She is then rescued but has totally lost her memory. Nie Sangyu is a cruel and despicable person, but the rescued Nie Sangyu is a kind and very lovable person. Turns out the rescued Nie Sangyu is not the original Nie Sangyu, but no one suspects that she's not the real one because they look exactly the same except different in temperament and character.
Nie Sangyu is married to Marquis Ning Yuxuan (Ding Yuxi) who is forced to marry her, but he dislikes her because the original Nie Sangyu is not likable. After going through all the life and death experiences together, both the fake Nie Sangyu and Ning Yuxuan fall in love with each other. When he finds out Nie Sangyu’s real identity as Ji Man, Ning Yuxuan wants to marry her, but this must be done privately because her real identity cannot be revealed to others just yet. Their wedding is disrupted unexpectedly as the events unfold.
Both Peng Xiaoran and Ding Yuxi have given a wonderful performance here. Their characters are believable and lovable. I have loved Peng Xiaoran since Goodbye My Princess. Here, she is beautiful and natural. Ding Yuxi may not be everyone’s pretty boy and he’s not tall in stature, but he’s a wonderful actor. I have enjoyed all his dramas.
The antagonists are made known from the beginning. Ma Ke plays Ling Jianxing as Ning Yuxuan’s nemesis. Throughout Ning Yuxuan’s career, Ling Jianxing has always been there to create stumbling blocks for him, many times deadly, but each time, Ning Yuxuan is a step ahead of Ling Jianxing.
Ning Yuxuan also has a concubine whom he marries for a reason. Wen Wan (Jia Nai) is the most hated character in the story. Hypocritical, jealous, murderous, Wen Wan wants Nie Sangyu dead, and sabotages her repeatedly. Again and again Nie Sangyu dodges death through her quick wit and help from Ning Yuxuan.
Luckily, we have an intelligent and benevolent emperor here that makes the story very pleasant. The two maids that follow Nie Sangyu/Ji Man around are sweet, and her friends are trusty and dependable. Ning Yuxuan’s loyal bodyguard, Gui Bai (He Changxi), is also an interesting and lovable character. There are some very lovely side couples with their respective sweet romance. Too bad a secret admirer whom I have come to like, becomes a deadly antagonist.
My Verdict
Despite all the tropes and cliché, and some plot holes here and there (eg. how Ji man loses her memory), this is a very enjoyable drama. For romance buffs, this is not smooth sailing for the couple; they are separated for one year (for an acceptable reason) before getting back together again. Great acting, lovely story, and good directing.
Enjoyable watch! Don’t miss it!
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The Shades of Justice
In this gripping thriller, we delve into a world where the boundaries of justice are not clearly defined. The story revolves around a young servant who masterminds a heinous crime, leading to the murder of his master's entire family, heirs, and servants. With their wealth in his hands, he vanishes for years, only to be confronted by justice two decades later. This short drama, spanning just 12 episodes, is a rollercoaster of enigmas, mysteries, ironies, suspense, and dark humor.Constable Qu Sangeng, portrayed by Bai Yu Fan, embarks on a harrowing journey to uncover the gruesome murder of his beloved superior, whom he regarded as a father figure. Soon, a string of similar murders emerges, all pointing to a common culprit. Qu Sangeng must untangle the web of connections between the victims and decipher the motive. The trail leads back to an incident that occurred two decades ago at the Lu mansion, which was razed to the ground, claiming the lives of most of its occupants. Only Lu Zhi, played by Yu Yao, and a handful of others managed to escape.
As the narrative unfolds, viewers will empathize with Lu Zhi, understanding the circumstances that drove him to commit these atrocities. As a clever adolescent, Lu Zhi believed he had executed the perfect crime, unaware that someone held knowledge of his dark secret. This mysterious individual resurfaces two decades later to exact vengeance on those responsible.
While Lu Zhi's story is the genesis of these events and the serial killer's vendetta sets Constable Qu Sangeng on his quest for justice, they are not the central characters. The focus of the story shifts to Qu Sangeng and his decision to prioritize justice over personal vengeance, as well as Song Chen's struggles, portrayed by Ning Li. Both the adult Lu Zhi and the serial killer make only hidden or fleeting appearances as the story progresses.
Every character seems to harbor a motive and arouse suspicion. As the present-day plot unfolds and investigators attempt to piece together a complex puzzle, flashbacks shed light on the events from two decades ago. While the drama hints at hidden and illicit affairs, there is no central romantic subplot, reflecting the societal norms of the era.
Without good translations, some viewers may find this drama hard to understand as it is laden with riddles from verses and poems by the ancient sages. Even those well-versed in Mandarin and written Chinese may find themselves struggling with certain scenes and story elements, as the narrative moves swiftly and some details remain unexplained, catering to a more discerning audience. Rewatching becomes essential not for cherishing particular moments or characters but to gain a deeper comprehension and capture the subtleties that might have been missed.
My Verdict
This thriller is an adrenaline-pumping ride, offering a captivating storytelling format, top-notch direction, and commendable performances, with Yu Yao's portrayal of the juvenile Lu Zhi and Ning Li's portrayal of Song Chen standing out the most.
What makes this drama truly striking is its realism, even in today's world, in depicting the complex backdrop of wealth and power. Characters like Lu Yuan Bao, portrayed by Zhang Xi Lin, who transformed from a bandit to a wealthy and influential figure, highlight the murky waters of power dynamics. The story also portrays corrupt government officials who can be easily swayed, and the wealthy who, despite their outward respectability, remain to be despicable and thuggish. The concept of justice is portrayed in shades of gray, demonstrating that what one person sees as justice may be viewed as injustice from another's perspective. This theme resonates with the contemporary geopolitical landscape. For Qu Sangeng, choosing justice over personal vengeance is a wise choice given his superior's role in his father's death which he remains unaware of.
Great watch!
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Dedication, Devotion & Sacrifice
This is a story of a dedicated friendship to an Emperor, a devoted love to a “shifu” (teacher) and the sacrifices of the main characters for the greater good. The romance is heart breaking and the bromance is heartwarming. Adapted from a novel which I haven’t read, some of the characters are said to have tamped down to make them less ruthless and more likeable according to some readers. All in all, this is a high quality production with recognizable actors and a beautiful storyline.In recent months, there have been a few dramas with the theme of romance between teacher/shifu and student/disciple. This is one of them, and I can’t help thinking, “Is this a recent fad?” I don’t want to get into the morality of such a relationship and will leave discussions to the viewers. Without having read its plot in the novel, how the adaptation turns out here is very plausible and palatable for most viewers.
Ye Hai Shi (Yang Mi) is rescued and adopted by Fang Jian Ming (Chen Wei Ting aka William Chen) when she is very young. Under adoption, she's disguised as a man and changes name to Fang Hai Shi. He teaches her everything from academics to combats. In the process, she admires and falls in love with him, and he is also attracted to her as she grows up. Whenever he detects danger, he always comes to her without fail, as she is precious to him. But he cannot be what she wants, a lover or a spouse, because he is a “baixi” for the Emperor, an invisible link whereby he would endure harm, pains and death for the Emperor. It is this type of love-and-pain relationship that propels the story and makes the characters lovable and the viewers empathize with them. Together with Zhuo Ying (Wang Sen), another Fang Jian Ming’s adopted disciple, they form a spy ring cum secret service for the Emperor.
I love the young actor who plays the juvenile Ye Hai Shi. She has an innocent face, and yet exudes a charisma of a boy - among others, strong, forward, fearless. Yang Mi plays the adult Ye Hai Shi / Fang Hai Shi with a different charisma, giving viewers a different feeling for the character. Here under her, Fang Hai Shi is still headstrong and valiant, at the same time, very feminine even when she dresses as a man. When leading her soldiers fighting the enemies, Yang Mi’s acting is passable but lacks the robustness of a male general. When facing her shifu, Yang Mi is like a little girl secretly admiring a lover, peeking at him under her lush eye lashes - that, she scores 100%. Many complaints of Yang Mi stem from her using her own voice in the dubbing. Though she has a very unique and nice voice, as a commanding general, her voice sounds too girly, and as a woman, she sounds too mechanical and lacks the spontaneity a woman normally possesses.
As a veteran actor, it’s not a coincidence that most of Yang Mi’s co-stars for her major works are not from mainland China. In this case, Chen Wei Ting is from Hong Kong. Though part of China, Hong Kong has its own movie industry and actors, and has very different values and styles. Very popular as an actor, however this is my first Chen Wei Ting’s work. I love the Fang Jian Ming character he plays here. I also love his styling though some viewers complain about his look as well as his acting. Despite not being 100%, I still like Chen Wei Ting’s portrayal as a calm, scheming, dedicated, strong fighter character with great physique cladding in white.
Xu Kai Cheng’s portrayal as the Emperor seems on and off. The strong friendship he has with Fang Jian Ming is heartwarming but at times, confusing due to the inconsistency in Xu Kai Cheng’s acting. Playing a supporting character Zhuo Ying, in fact, I’m most impressed by Wang Sen’s acting. I love the dynamics he has with Fang Hai Shi as siblings. I also love the devotion and commitment he has with his shifu and the Emperor, and not least, I love the undying love and dedication he has for a woman he secretly admires. Acting also as his cruel look-alike brother, Duo Luo who has a totally different personality and demeanor, Wang Sen aces in both characters he plays. I am particularly impressed by the scene when he has a hand-to-hand combat with his brother. The fighting is so real and heart-pounding that it is one of the best scenes in the drama.
There are multiple villains here, most are right there in the open with blatant disguises. Compared with the original version in the novel, these villains seem to have died of easy and quick deaths.
Perhaps what I love the most about this drama is how they have adapted for the fate of both the main characters, Fang Hai Shi and Fang Jian Ming. From the novel, the Emperor somehow develops feelings for Fang Hai Shi and forcefully takes her away from his best friend to become his consort. Such action does not go down well with today’s viewers. The adaptation is swift and brilliant such that, though Fang Hai Shi still becomes a consort, it is a plan by Fang Jian Ming to protect her by stashing her away with the Emperor for safe keeping. So in the end, both couples - the Emperor/Ti Lan (Chen Xiao Yun) and Fang Hai Shi/Fang Jian Ming - are still faithful to and for each other only. This is a big relief for all romance buffs.
I just wish the sub plots are more prominently told especially with the Zhuo Ying’s arc, instead of the scenes being played out in his communication with his shifu and Hai Shi. Zhuo Ying is indeed a very impressive character and his story captivating.
My Verdict
This is a fantasy story that involves supernatural beings like a talking mermaid (and a few others), and dark magic. The CGIs are very good with very convincing sceneries, people and fighting scenes. There is no need to watch other Novoland series before this one as they are not related. The pace is very fast especially with the wuxia fighting scenes executed with heart throbbing beating drum.
Half-way through airing, the drama has a very low rating of 4.9 on Douban. It’s gone up slightly at the end of airing at 5.1. Many viewers do not like Yang Mi for various reasons - her look, her acting, her voice. Others don’t like Chen Wei Ting. Online criticism is ferocious. Don’t be disheartened by such poor ratings and negative comments because, flaws there maybe, this is still a wonderful and beautiful story with amazing characters, a lot of great scenes and commendable cinematography.
A great watch! Don’t miss it. Two Thumbs Up!
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Rather Bizarre Ending
Believe in Love is a partly xianxia, partly non xianxia drama. The xianxia elements are not pronounced throughout the story, as most of the characters are all normal humans living an earthly life, until towards the end when some elements of xianxia come to light. This is another story revolving around cuisines and food, and it is my fourth one in a row. Despite the tag that says “comedy”, there is very little comedy here, or comedies that don't make people laugh. Nonetheless, it’s quite an enjoyable light watch with some “angsts” for some viewers.Hua Yinan (Huang Shengchi) and Lu Yue’er (Zheng He Hui Zi) were lovers in their previous life as General Mu Yuan and Xiao Man. Mu Yuan died and Xiao Man perished while trying to save him. Thousands of years later, they meet again living on an island -- Hua Yinan as the son of the owner of the island and Lu Yue’er as the daughter of the owner of a small noodle shop. With mysteries and unexplained circumstances, Hua Yinan is told to marry Lu Yue’er in his father’s will before he can inherit his father’s legacy as the rightful owner of the island and all his properties, including the biggest and best restaurant on the island. Hua Yinan is reluctant to marry Lu Yue’er as he doesn’t like her and the feelings are mutual. Through various encounters that make them save each other’s life, Hua Yinan begins to fall in love with Lu Yue’er. So when she agrees to marry him, Hua Yinan is overjoy. He inherits everything the will promises he will. Comes our antagonist who was the antagonist in their previous life as well. What follows become a test of their true love for each other.
The whole cast is new to me including the main leads. Huang Shengchi is good looking and despite having acted in many dramas, this is my first drama of him. His portrayal of Hua Yinan is convincing with a mild demeanor and a soft romance towards his love. Likewise, I have never watched any of Zheng He Hui Zi’s dramas, and her portrayal here is equally convincing as the naïve Lu Yue’er or the arrogant Tang Yingying. Her outfit is rather unconventional with bared shoulders, accentuating her narrow frame, making her looking like a little girl. Their dynamics together are sweet and authentic with a lot of intimate scenes. The antagonist is vile and hateful, and Xiao Kaizhong's portrayal is very convincing. The second couple, Su Tang (Zhu Rong Jun) and Du Ruo (Hou Dong), is quite a joy to watch, and the stepmom and step sister are so horrible that you want to slap them. These supporting actors are great in their respective roles.
My Verdict
This drama is not great nor very bad. It’s easy watching though it can be rather slow pace as there is a prolong romance play which can be welcoming for some romance buffs, but boring for others. The last episode turns into a love triangle with a xianxia fight with superpower. The endings have multiple plot holes and questions not answered. It's rather bizarre. Overall, watch it for light entertainment and don't be too bothered with the details.
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A New Age Wuxia
Unlike wuxia by Jin Yong and his contemporaries, this is a nontraditional wuxia drama. Though still embodies the basic wuxia elements of chivalry in social and moral codes, its heavy use of CGI in depicting the exaggerated inner energy and superpower with people flying like birds, has rendered it more like, rather, feel like a xianxia drama. And that makes this drama stand out from the other wuxia dramas.There are a lot of firework displays in the fighting scenes with characters showcasing their powers and prowess, zipping through buildings and landscape, moving mountains and dividing seas. More serious wuxia buffs may not appreciate such exaggerations, but the story and the characters are captivating.
Like most wuxia stories, there are many characters here and together with their criss-crossing relationships, it can be confusing. Some characters can also have multiple shifus (teachers) with different skills. On top of that, some characters may appear at the beginning episodes, never reappear until at very much later episodes. Therefore, watching with a character map can help greatly if spoilers are acceptable, at the same time, take notes.
All the characters are complex, interesting and lovable, and the selection of actors is spot on. I love Li Hongyi’s indifferent demeanor which is just perfect for the role as Xiao Se who has lost all his strength and doesn't seem to care a bit even if the sky is falling. Liu Xueyi’s cheekiness and funny aura are ideal as the hilarious Wu Xin the monk who makes me laugh whenever he opens his mouth. Ao Ruipeng looks and acts like a big baby, and fits seamlessly as the innocent and chivalrous Lei Wujie who has a terrible sense of direction. Every other character matches its actor, giving viewers a convincing performance. The dialogs are unexpected but logical and humorous.
The story spans from the initial episodes of adventure, meeting people and making friends, to later episodes of intense palace politics with deadly scheming and assassinations. There are several characters whom I like a lot but they either die early or never appear again. Thanks goodness there's no romance between the main leads, though there is some subtle love interest.
My Verdict
Fast moving, intense, humorous, captivating, lovely characters, great acting, superb directing, editing and production. Indeed kudos to the new and refreshing way of telling a wuxia story.
A must-watch. Two thumbs up! BRAVO!
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Deng Lun is a Gem
I must say, I have enjoyed watching this drama. Not for its great plot nor fancy actors, but for something closer – home, what it takes to make a place we can call home. It takes a lot of love and sacrifices. It takes courage and patience.Deng Lun’s acting is simply 10 out of 10; he is natural, funny and lovable. The character he plays as Shao Peng Chen, grows from an arrogant spoiled brat to a considerate and compassionate leader. His wits, kindness and empathy help him win many hearts, including the love of his life.
Another notable acting is by Li Xin Yi who plays the wily Hao Mei Li. She grows from someone who always undercuts her friends and co-workers to a reliable trusted friend whom everyone loves. Li Xin Yi pins the character to the spot. I really love watching her, though in the beginning I must admit I did roll my eyes whenever she appeared and talked.
There are no real bad characters from start to finish in this drama. The whole drama basically portrays a very real issue faced by many young people living in big cities in China, in particular, Shanghai, where property prices are beyond the reach of many families. As it is a tradition that most Chinese families demand ownership of properties, it has become a constant stress for the growing number of young people working in the cities. The pressure from both sides of the families for a young married couple to own a property is simply unimaginable.
Shao Peng Chen in this drama comes up with a solution in solving the pressing housing issue. It follows a popular affordable rent-to-own model, which has been trending in western countries with the decline of home ownership. His conviction and determination in achieving his goals play out as he picks up the pieces when he fails, and forever optimistic and hopeful, never letting his failures overshadow his judgement.
This drama brings love, friendship, family, trust, compassion, and hope. It is heart-warming and it leaves one with a feel-good sense. It is worthy of our viewing if even just for Deng Lun’s performance. I guarantee you, he would make you fall head-over-toe for him, if he hasn’t already.
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An Irresistible Blend of Laughter and Love
"Hilarious Family" is a slapstick drama characterized by its exaggerated expressions and actions. Despite this, the comedy remains relatable, with natural and genuinely hilarious jokes. Each character is distinctly unique, realistically portrayed, endearing, and undergoes well-developed growth. The deliberately exaggerated acting, though, is both convincing and playful. At its core, the story follows a widow who raises her four daughters by selling tofu. Now that the daughters are grown, the widow is focused on finding suitable husbands for them, providing a satirical commentary on societal norms that still resonate in today's world.The story introduces multiple romantic couples, each with their own amusing yet heartwarming stories. The music dances with a whimsical charm, amplifying the actions and emotions of both the events and the characters.
Du Ruyu (Liu Lin) adores all of her daughters equally, though there are moments when it may seem like she favors the eldest and overlooks the second. This, as it turns out, is a misunderstanding. Her strong sense of pride and concern for social image often lead to comedic mishaps. Her own romantic subplot adds a sweet and amusing touch to the story.
The eldest daughter, Chun Jinrong (Han Yunyun), at 29 years and 18 months, is fervently in pursuit of a husband. Her mother pulls out all the stops to assist her in this quest. Jinrong is the most refined among the daughters and invests the family's limited resources in clothing and accessories, all in the hopes of attracting a wealthy suitor. Initially appearing as a potential gold digger, as the story unfolds, we come to understand her motives and see her love for her family. Her escapades and encounters are hilarious.
Chun Peilan (Jackie Li), the second daughter, is a gentle and domestic individual. Her aspirations are centered around cooking, managing household chores, and caring for the family. While no one anticipates her finding love, she captures the heart of a very handsome man with dreams of becoming a valiant hero and a dashing sword fighter, but he couldn't use a sword.
The third daughter, Chun Banxia (Wu Jiayi), is a principled individual intolerant of any hint of wrongdoing. She is well-versed in the law and medicine, and assists her uncle in running a small clinic from home. The humorous exchanges she has with her mother underscore her sharp wit and determination.
Finally, the youngest daughter, Chun Keling (Li Jiaqi), is a spirited tomboy known for her youthful courage and impulsiveness. She enjoys venturing outside, often accompanied by a pair of friends, to confront bullies and teach them a lesson. Unbeknownst to her, a remarkably handsome young man falls in love with her for her distinctive qualities. However, not every girl dreams of marrying a prince, and Keling is no exception.
The final episode strikes a poignant and insightful note, yet the comedy continues, offering a delightful contrast. Lu Buping's hilarious kitchen scene and his comical daikon cutting leave deep impression. Chun Peilan originally requests the daikon to be diced into small cubes (丁), which is the true essence of cutting into "ding". Lu Buping, however, took a more literal approach, sculpting it into the shape of the character 丁("ding"). Despite its slapstick nature, I'm consistently impressed by the exceptional writing and acting on display.
My Verdict
Rowdy and constantly chaotic, this heartwarming story does away with traditional antagonists. Challenges faced by the characters often find resolution through serendipity. Every chaotic mishap can be traced back to a series of comically absurd misunderstandings. The romance is tender, endearing, and injected with humor. The dialogue is natural and witty, and the performances are praiseworthy. It's an easy-to-follow, enjoyable relaxation suitable for the entire family.
Recommended!
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What Does Life Truly Mean?
In this compelling story of "Fake It Till You Make It ", we embark on a profound journey to unravel the essence of life itself. Is it akin to a meticulously scripted movie where every piece effortlessly falls into place? Or do we navigate its twists and turns while relentlessly pursuing our desires? Our story delves into the myriad relationships and perspectives of a group of industrious young individuals from diverse professions. Even within the cocoon of love, there exist two distinct vantage points, each held by the parties involved.In the pursuit of dreams and desires within the relentless rat race of our world, we often wear masks of pretense. We mold ourselves into someone we believe will garner admiration from others, for we reside in a world where pretense is the norm. We toil relentlessly, pushing our boundaries, sometimes sacrificing relationships, health, and happiness along the way. And then, at the culmination of it all, we find ourselves asking the ultimate question: Is it all worth it? Does it carry meaning?
Our story explores the very essence of falling in love, the significance of marriage, and the enigmatic nature of attraction between people. Should we surrender to the whims of fate, letting life take its course, or should we seize control and fight for our desires?
Throughout the story, we witness multiple examples that illuminate the diverse relationships and perspectives of our characters. Tang Ying, haunted by past heartache, yearns for a new relationship but fears rejection. Xu Ziquan, a flamboyant individual, shies away from committing to a lasting relationship. When their paths cross, burdened by their respective baggage and consumed by their careers, they struggle to prioritize their love. Eventually, they come to a realization: they must take a leap of faith, committing to each other wholeheartedly, regardless of the outcome, as long as they give it their all.
Lin Xinzi has always sought the perfect love, envisioning it with a man who embodies ideal looks, status, and wealth. Yet, when she believes she's found the one, she discovers herself suffocating in the suffocating embrace of Xu Jiabai's obsessiveness. After parting ways with Xu Jiabai and meeting Xia Tian, she learns that relationships need not adhere to a script, and life rarely unfolds as planned.
Every character depicted here exudes a striking realism. Encounters with individuals akin to Xu Ziquan, who shy away from commitment, are a common occurrence in our lives. Simultaneously, we often encounter characters like Tang Ying who crave reassurance and commitment at the same time also keeping an eye out for potentially better partners. While the Xu Jiabai character may be toxic, it undeniably mirrors a prevalent archetype in society. This dynamic is a familiar facet of the human experience. The value of this drama lies in its effort to delineate the characteristics of such individuals, enabling viewers to recognize them in real-life scenarios and make informed choices when navigating such relationships.
All the characters are meticulously crafted and portrayed, evolving authentically throughout their journeys. Elvis Han portrays Xu Ziquan's character with a familiarity that resonates with many viewers, while Elvira Cai's Tang Ying is captivating and utterly believable.
As the author poetically observes, "The city never stops; it won't pause for anyone, just like our lives. When we reflect upon the people we encounter, we realize that from the outset, we all strive to move forward and upward. Between pretense and reality, let's offer ourselves some soulful nourishment. Superiors, subordinates, rivals, friends - we often find ourselves trapped in various roles. We say what must be said and do what must be done, staunchly believing that this is life. However, as if scripted, just as pretense reaches its zenith, we stumble upon a universal truth -- prosperity, success, and happiness - these elements are never meticulously planned but are derived from our actual experiences."
"The city has introduced us to countless souls, each revealing the vastness of the world, beyond our wildest imagination. The path we choose should be uniquely ours; discard the well-crafted script. Through struggle and determination, seek a life that truly belongs to us. It's alright if we falter, and it's perfectly fine if we lose our way. What matters most is living in accordance with our heart's desires, for that is the essence of true freedom."
My Verdict
In our relentless pursuit of life's ambitions, there often comes a price. Tang Ying pays with her health, Xu Ziquan carries the weight of a broken relationship. As viewers, we too navigate life's labyrinth, occasionally finding ourselves adrift, much like Tang Ying and Xu Ziquan. However, if we view the lowest moments as transformative phases, we may eventually find our way, just as they do. Above all, let us approach life with expectations, appreciating the occasional moments of reaping its rewards, for therein lies the true essence of our existence, as the author puts it, "常常期待 有時收獲"
This captivating drama unfolds as a rich tapestry of life's profound lessons. It comes highly recommended for those seeking inspiration and introspection.
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Sweet Romance, Great Acting
Since time immemorial, humans have fantasized to possess supernatural bodies, with powers to see through walls, to hear even the slightest sounds, to smell the faintest scent, to speed like a cheetah, to feel nature, and most of all, to stay youthful and to live to hundreds of years. This drama gives the viewers a glimpse of how such powers can bring as in Han Zheng (Bi Wenjun). Together with a love triangle, suspense, and investigation, this is a very delightful story.Han Zheng is a subhuman species (homo “whatever”), Qi people, living in the north. He has come to the south to seek his best friend who has disappeared with the “seed fire” which is of utmost importance for the survival of his species. In the south, he meets Su Jiu’er (Li Yitong) who is a sickly homo sapiens (Qian people) constable, brilliant in solving cases. Through unexplained reasons, they always find it soothing when they touch each other, and each time, Su Jiu’er feels rejuvenated. After some time, they both fall in love with each other. Together hand in hand, literally, they solve one mystery after another, and eventually expose the greatest conspiracy.
I must commend the production team in the selection of the cast. Bi Wenjun is tall and good looking with a face that says he can transform into his “natural” form anytime. He’s the perfect fit as the description of the Qi people are said to be tall and strong. His acting is very believable especially when he is flummoxed by the Qian people’s traditions and habits. In contrast, Li Yitong is petite and cute, and makes a very convincing feisty Su Jiu’er who is intelligent and not cringey. She has amazing chemistry with both Bi Wenjun and Chen Heyi who plays the character of Prince Wen Jun. Despite a love triangle, the friendship of the trio is warm and lovely, and makes the viewers root for both male leads.
All the characters, even the hidden antagonist, are lovable and the use of actors appropriate. The CGIs, fighting, horror scenes etc are believable and still maintain a lot of humors and jokes. Though there could be a few plot holes here and there (such as Han Zheng suddenly knows how to read Su Jiu’er’s letter in Qian language), it doesn’t lower my enjoyment of the story. My only regrets are, the potential of a great second couple fizzles out, and by the end of the story, the antagonist is still missing. It seems there will be a season 2 soon.
My Verdict
Great watch for all. Don’t miss it! Bravo!
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Real Passionate Kissing Scenes
OMG! This is the only Chinese drama I’ve ever watched with so many passionate kisses. Other Chinese dramas normally have superficial kisses like a peck on the lip or cheek. But this drama goes all the way out to capture real, passionate and sensual kisses. The male and female leads don’t seem to have enough of those kisses and with each other!This is a light-hearted drama. It’s funny, and the plot is straight forward with not many twists. I like the chemistry between the lovers, as mentioned earlier, they don’t seem to have enough of each other. I also like the relationship between the Prince and his buddies. Their silliness is the most hilarious things to watch and I really love watching them teaching each other the art of “conquering” women.
Overall the acting is good, especially for the new comer Ling Mei Shi who plays the Li Ming Yue character. She is cute, beautiful and works very hard in bringing us a very convincing princess. Alen Fang is very good looking with a cold and arrogant look, fitting the role of Li Qian very well. As Li Qian, despite his intelligence, he is repeatedly fooled by his own wife, the princess, over and over again. Together with his buddies, Si Kong Zhen and LiXun, they seem to have some kind of bromance with each other and the overall effect is funny, sweet and heart-warming.
Overall, things fall into places well and no loose ends, and the pace is just good.
If you want something light and good for a laugh, this is a good drama to follow.
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