Savor the first episode.
Wow, this opening battle scene is epic. The swiftness of the moves is spot on, making it realistic and exciting. What a way to start a new drama. Damn, there is nothing better than a beautiful, fierce woman and a handsome man in battle. The FL is a formidable master archer. You will appreciate her fight scenes.
Story
The story is original as far as I know. The epic battle in the beginning fully captivated my interest. I enjoyed the backdrop for the story and the mystery behind it. There was so much happening in the first episode alone, setting the stage for the rest of the drama. It was my hope that it would hold up through 38 episodes and keep my interest. For the most part, it did. Although around episode 24, I almost forgot how it started, what it had become. The story moves at a good pace, but there are some obvious plot holes that I have questions about. For example, why are there no guards outside of the Emperor’s place when he is sick? Also, did the first Empress really think she was going to leave the palace with the children? (Really, who wrote that)
Production
The production value is extremely high. The costumes are lovely and represent the historic era. The scenes are massive with what seems like many extras, and bring a real feel to the drama. The cinematography is stunning. The way the wind blows, the costumes, and the close-ups almost take your breath away. You can tell they spent time on the special effects, making everything seem authentic.
Acting
The acting is okay; nothing seems really out of place. However, there isn’t anything that makes me feel the chemistry that leads should have. The ML has a youthful, boyish look, and the FL has a more mature, sophisticated look. This, I think, makes it a hard sell for chemistry (IMO). It is not bad, I just don’t feel anything from them. Everyone is playing their part as best they can or were directed to. Chinese dramas seem so micro-managed these days, so it is hard to tell.
Soundtrack: It is a hit or miss, and it is a miss for me. I am sure it is good when you listen to it, but it is always noticeable when it starts playing, which is distracting from its purpose.
In conclusion, I thought it was an average, okay drama. It has romance, a decent storyline, and some great fight scenes that will entertain you. The cast is in great shape, and the wirework looks good. It was a good watch and I recommend it, especially since dramas are recycling themselves. However, nothing stands out, and I feel like I have seen it before.
Story
The story is original as far as I know. The epic battle in the beginning fully captivated my interest. I enjoyed the backdrop for the story and the mystery behind it. There was so much happening in the first episode alone, setting the stage for the rest of the drama. It was my hope that it would hold up through 38 episodes and keep my interest. For the most part, it did. Although around episode 24, I almost forgot how it started, what it had become. The story moves at a good pace, but there are some obvious plot holes that I have questions about. For example, why are there no guards outside of the Emperor’s place when he is sick? Also, did the first Empress really think she was going to leave the palace with the children? (Really, who wrote that)
Production
The production value is extremely high. The costumes are lovely and represent the historic era. The scenes are massive with what seems like many extras, and bring a real feel to the drama. The cinematography is stunning. The way the wind blows, the costumes, and the close-ups almost take your breath away. You can tell they spent time on the special effects, making everything seem authentic.
Acting
The acting is okay; nothing seems really out of place. However, there isn’t anything that makes me feel the chemistry that leads should have. The ML has a youthful, boyish look, and the FL has a more mature, sophisticated look. This, I think, makes it a hard sell for chemistry (IMO). It is not bad, I just don’t feel anything from them. Everyone is playing their part as best they can or were directed to. Chinese dramas seem so micro-managed these days, so it is hard to tell.
Soundtrack: It is a hit or miss, and it is a miss for me. I am sure it is good when you listen to it, but it is always noticeable when it starts playing, which is distracting from its purpose.
In conclusion, I thought it was an average, okay drama. It has romance, a decent storyline, and some great fight scenes that will entertain you. The cast is in great shape, and the wirework looks good. It was a good watch and I recommend it, especially since dramas are recycling themselves. However, nothing stands out, and I feel like I have seen it before.
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