mads6375

MAJOR SPOILERS!!

This was a masterpiece literally! Everything was so pretty when it came to this drama. The actors' visuals, the setting, the music, and the story were all done so well. This story flew so harmoniously that I couldn't stop watching. This is definitely a drama where you have to binge watch it because you just can't stop. I also loved the HAPPY ending, thank goodness. I don't think I could have dealth with a sad ending for these 2 characters. They just went through so much together, so they deserved their happy ending. This drama also came full circle at the end which was so comforting to see.

PS. Hou Minghao and Lu Yuxiao are the perfect pairing. The natural chemistry and banter that they are able to engage in around each other is so refreshing to see. Their personalities just connect perfectly with eachother. ❤️❤️

BIG SPOILERS NEXT:

"My love for you isn't just a little. You don't know how much I care about you. My heart just has you in it." That whole bath scene was so touching, with Ji Bozai realizing that Ming Yi loves him too. And his softened gaze after hearing that. The way that they both claim to not have any feelings, but then always show up for each other. Ming Yi is so strong too as a person.

Bro, when 27 died...I sobbed (I wrote this before I knew he comes back). Genuinely, he was such a strong support system for Ming Yi and always showed up for her physically and emotionally. Also, him and Bu Xiu's relationship is not talked about enough.

AHHH...骗子(pianzi), finally the famous saying (also Ji Bozai's smile:)). That scene was amazing. Ji Bozai realizing that he knows who she truly is and her still trying to be in denial.

"You're far more important to me than I imagined." Aww...Ji Bozai's teasing with Ming Yi is so cute. I love the parallel between her getting poisoned through her favorite food and then Ji Bozai secretly giving her the antidote through her favorite food too. His smile when doing that was so genuine.

I don't know how to feel about Situ Ling. For one, I feel bad for him because he spends so much time and effort to save Ming Yi. But, also I don't know where that care comes from. Because with Ji Bozai, you can clearly see that he is doing it to help Ming Yi no matter what. Even with giving her the Golden Millet Dream, he never told her that he did it and even let her believe that Situ Ling helped heal her. This is because Ji Bozai doesn't care about who gets the credit as long as Ming Yi is healthy. I mean, yes, he did get jealous, but he still didn't reveal his actions. But, Situ Ling is not the same. He wants to use his help in order to gain Ming Yi's favor.

Also, oh my goodness. The plot twist is insane. Ji Bozai is poisoned by the Heavenly Grief, but gave the only antidote meant for him to Ming Yi without even batting an eye. It could poison him at any time, but he didn't care about himself. That is actual true love. Not only that, but Ming Yi is the daughter of Bo Yuchen and Master Shen!!!

What in the world is this 2nd plot twist? Broo..Ji Bozai has suffered through so much, always getting abandoned by everyone around him. He relapsed with the Heavenly Grief to save Ming Yi and even through sacrificing their love did he save Ming Yi from having to see him in that state. Ji Bozai is always thinking of other people.

"We live together and we die together." That literally summarizes their relationship. The last battle was so harmonious and beautifully done. You can fully see the trust they have in each other.

Side Note: I also loved the little bit of the relationship we got to see between Yan Xiao and the Princess. It was so sweet, as they have always been each other's support system to them growing into a couple.

Read More

“It doesn’t matter what you do or where you might be, I just will always love you for you.”
“I want to stay by your side a long time. And watch you become even greater than you are.”
“She deserves the best experiences and that is something that I can offer.”
“Life is precious. So while we have the chance, let’s love each other with no regrets.”
“You always lead me to good places and tell me what the right thing to do is.” — YES, THAT IS LITERALLY EXACTLY WHAT LOVE IS ABOUT.

My emotions were on a rollercoaster through this 16-episode story. First off, their kiss in the snow was perfect — chef’s kiss.

Secondly, this drama is not only about the romance:
Baek Yi-Jin once said, “If you fail to live your dream, it doesn’t mean you’re a failure. And I don’t think living your dream means you’ve succeeded either.”
That one line captures the message of this drama, when it is about love, growing up, finding yourself, and realizing that even the most beautiful things in life don’t always last forever.

If I had to summarize the entire drama in one line, it would be this: “A crazy friendship and an intense love. Because it’s those brief moments that make a long life shine.” This drama hits hard when thinking about nostalgia. It makes you remember what it felt like to be young and to believe that the people beside you would be there forever. It’s a show that teaches children to cherish our youth, because those fleeting days of laughter, love, and mistakes are what shape who we become.

And can we talk about the found family aspect? Every single member of that friend group were pieces of each other’s lives. It was comforting and painful all at once, watching how time slowly drifted them apart, but their memories stayed to tell this story.

I have to admit that I recognize that the lesson of Twenty-Five Twenty-One isn’t about getting a happy ending. It’s about realizing that some people are meant to come into your life for a season, to teach you something, to love you fiercely for a time, and then sadly let you go. It’s about finding peace in that, even if it hurts.

But still… the ending absolutely destroyed me. The things they said to each other, the way they looked at one another, knowing they still loved each other but couldn’t stay. I will never forgive the writers for not letting them end up together. And then the replays — all their old scenes flashing back, the tears in their eyes during that final interview, their last hug, and Baek Yi-Jin’s password reset. Oh man...I couldn't hold it together in that last episode.

Twenty-Five Twenty-One teaches us that love doesn’t have to last forever to be real, rather, it just has to be felt. The memories they shared, the laughter, the friendship, the heartbreak is what makes life meaningful. It’s the kind of drama that makes you cry, smile, and think about your own past all at once. A masterpiece!

Read More

This drama was the perfect balance between emotional depth, humor, and constant support from both partners. Trust me, there were definitely hard traumatic parts to watch, like Wen Yifan's back-story. But, I loved seeing their journey from childhood at school all the way to adulthood. Sang Yan is the ideal partner in a relationship. Throughout everything they went through together, he never stopped loving her and always protected her through everything. I genuinely have no criticisms for this drama. Also, I have like this whole drama's OST soundtrack on my playlist so...another plus!

Read More

Like yes! The slow buildup and emotional tension completely won me over. Duan Jiaxu is honestly one of the best male leads, he is so protective, caring, and always wanting the best for her. Their chemistry was sweet without feeling forced, and the way their relationship developed felt so natural. The age gap didn't really bother me in this drama and I totally loved the dynamic between them having to hide their relationship from Sang Yan. Also, I totally cried during the airport scene when she misunderstood that he had a girlfriend — that moment broke me. Such a wholesome drama overall.

Read More

BIG SPOILERS!! EPISODE BY EPISODE THOUGHTS!

Dare I say one of the best modern dramas of all time? The tension, mutual understanding, and protective behavior between Jin Zhao and Jiang Mu are unmatched. Jin Zhao’s caring and playful side only emerges around Jiang Mu—his smiles, crinkling eyes, and quiet devotion rarely show for anyone else. They are opposites who fit perfectly. He knows what she needs before she even says a word.

He Yu and Yu Shuxin embodied these roles flawlessly. Their chemistry is undeniable, on-screen and off. Interviews and variety shows show their banter and shared energy. When I imagine Jin Zhao, I see He Yu; when I imagine Jiang Mu, I see Yu Shuxin. PLEASE 2ND COLLABORATION!

Jiang Mu is strong, independent, loyal, and loving. She never gives up, ultimately ensuring their happily ever after. A TikTok perfectly sums up Jin Zhao: “Having a boyfriend like Jin Zhao is not for the weak. He’s literally the standard. Husband material. He knows how to cook, has emotional intelligence, can protect you, spoil you, drive, manage time, box, race, fix things, is loyal, brave, strong, handsome, smart, and only yearns for you.” Perfectly said.

Episode 1:
The underground boxing club opening scene was 🔥🔥🔥. Jin Zhao and Jiang Mu’s tension is immediate, almost palpable through their glances. Even without dialogue, the way they watch each other, the subtle micro-expressions, sets up the connection instantly. That silent understanding is intoxicating—every glance seems to say, “I see you. I get you.”

Episode 3:
THE TENSION! Jin Zhao’s explanation of his struggles is raw and emotional. He Yu’s portrayal shows layers of strength and vulnerability. You feel his weight, and his protective instinct toward Jiang Mu starts to shine. You already know this is the beginning of something intense.

Episode 4:
“I only know the day that you came into this world.” Oversized shirt, hand on her stomach during cramps—he’s attentive and protective even when they’re only “siblings.” The tension of that touch, the way they avoid full acknowledgment, is electric.

Episode 5:
“You tried to smash my car and mess with my people.” His protective nature is so attractive. The garage scene after the ruckus—the way they look at each other—is intoxicating. He Yu driving without a stunt double, exuding confidence, perfectly captures Jin Zhao’s aura. His care isn’t just emotional—it’s kinetic, active, commanding attention.

Episode 6:
“My home is your home. With me there, no one can bully you.” The casual hand holding, reassurance, and ignoring Wan Jing’s advances show his unwavering focus on Jiang Mu. The peeling of the pig trotter for her is subtle, intimate caretaking that says “I see you, I know you.” Jin Zhao’s loyalty shines.

Episode 8:
Mumu searching his pockets—innocent, shameless, adorable. Jin Zhao melts whenever she calls him “Gege.” Allowing her to keep a dog at his place shows a gentle, protective side. Every small action proves how much he prioritizes her happiness.

Episode 9:
Apple-sharing scene—eye contact locked, shameless flirting. When he corners her and asks if she wants something to happen, it’s practically a confession. Dream sequences heighten tension. Yu Shuxin and He Yu sell the intensity perfectly, balancing innocence with emerging desire.

Episode 10:
Fully in love. Drawing Jiang Mu, thinking of her constantly. Hand-holding in the rain, matching smirks, subtle touches—they’re unignorable. You feel their heartbeat in every frame.

Episode 11:
Blowdrying her hair, listening to her sing 月亮代表我的心, laying heads together—trust and comfort are tangible. Jin Zhao’s gaze is completely hers. The poster-perfect scene solidifies their intimacy.

Episode 12:
Jin Zhao’s self-control with drunk Mumu. San Lai as matchmaker. Jin Zhao admits internally, “She doesn’t need to get in. She’s always been there.” The keychain with 朝思暮想, yearning day and night, is a perfect symbolic connection across distance and time.

Episode 13:
Jiang Mu as navigator shows complete trust. Drifting hearts gift demonstrates thoughtfulness. Accidental cheek kiss—pure joy. Jin Zhao’s lovestruck puppy expression adds humor and depth.

Episode 14:
Lean down, head pat, promises to care for her even after racing. Mumu initiates first kiss, signaling her agency in their relationship. Every gesture is meaningful.

Episode 15:
Rooftop kiss—he loses control. Second kiss stronger, hands intertwined, passion unrestrained. Hand-holding behind her back calms her. Stairwell hug—comforting and necessary. Red bean necklace and Up house fulfill childhood promises. Whipped cream moment—playful, tender, intimate.

Episode 16:
Blessed with kisses. Shirtless scene, pulling her in. Boat outfit perfect. Secret relationship scenes—covering dog’s eyes, jumping into ocean, hiding passion. Car scenes, rooftop kisses, and emotional hits—Yu Shuxin’s acting conveys heartbreak, longing, and restrained love.

Episode 17:
Car destroyed, yet Jin Zhao shields Mumu from stress. Calm, grounding voice. Gentle with her, strict with others. Protective instinct palpable, almost overwhelming.

Episode 18:
Smiles only for Mumu. Head-holding hug, dreams of café and dog. Pan Kai interruption—humorous. Fireworks kiss. LEGO reference. Lightning the dog—“their baby.” Deep emotional gaze while she sings—cinematic perfection.

Episode 19:
Aggressive kisses tempered by restraint. Shared bed revelation. Pre-race admiration. Accident panic—Yu Shuxin’s eyes convey fear, tension, relief. Careful gestures show devotion.

Episode 20:
Pre-surgery tears—reliving every moment. Separation hurts deeply, only cries around her. Rehab determination shows persistence. Emotional pull intensifies as Jin Zhao balances survival and love.

Episode 21:
Jiang Mu’s loyalty unparalleled. Coffee symbolism shows years of restraint. Both back in Nanjing, yearning peaks. Small glances and gestures pack emotional weight.

Episode 22:
Missed reunion—painful. Lightning’s return—heartwarming. Café perfectly matches her dreams: Moon drink, LEGO rocket. Reunion heartbreaking: defensive, mutual hurt, tears across café. Visuals cinematic, emotionally layered.

Episode 23:
Jiang Mu’s fake marriage plot—clever, humorous. Jin Zhao relief, protective instinct, subtle jealousy. Texts, listening to 月亮代表我的心, small interactions—intense love showcased without dialogue.

Episode 24:
Revelation scene. Jin Zhao restrained, IV drip accelerated. Classic lean-down, unspoken longing, raw emotion. Desire, care, and restraint merge into perfect tension.

Episode 25:
Kitchen scene: apron tied, playful smirk, tender teasing—they’re practically dating again. Jin Zhao pretends to act cold while peeling crabs, carefully feeding her when she drinks too much, watching over her with a mix of patience and intensity. Every glance and small gesture says “I see you, I’ve always been watching out for you.” Elevator kiss scene—heart-stopping, breathless, teetering between restraint and release. His whisper of 乖 (guai guai) while holding her close melts the tension. Sun and moon symbolism shows their eternal bond: he’s her constant, her protector, her equal. Their banter, touches, and secret smiles weave humor, intimacy, and raw emotion seamlessly. The chemistry is electric, but the love is deeply grounded.

Episode 26:
Officially back together. Head-holding hug returns, back hug intensifies the emotional intimacy. Jin Zhao’s jaw clenches, body tense with desire, yet controlled—he wants her completely but respects her space. Every move, glance, and whisper is deliberate, a testament to their trust. “I’m not a small child anymore.” Jiang Mu asserts herself, and he responds with reassurance, admiration, and playful dominance. Black dress scene—Jin Zhao shameless, captivated, gently teasing, showing that he’s entirely hers. Photo albums, shared collectibles, and past mementos evoke nostalgia and reaffirm how their love grew through shared history. Subtle touches—hand on back, guiding gaze, tiny smiles—reiterate that every moment is layered with affection, memory, and promise.

Episode 27:
Couch scene: the intimacy is electric. Soft teasing, playful interruptions, whispered confessions, lingering touches, and subtle glances heighten the romantic tension. Jin Zhao’s protective instincts are visible in small acts: adjusting her hair, brushing off crumbs, ensuring she’s comfortable. The way he engages with friends like San Lai and Crazy shows growth, maturity, and loyalty—they’re a chosen family, protective yet relaxed. BTS reveals He Yu and Yu Shuxin’s chemistry isn’t just scripted; it’s palpable and effortless. Jin Zhao visiting Mumu at the airport with the keychain she treasures shows that every small gesture carries years of meaning and dedication.

Episode 28:
Mike third-wheel humor adds levity, but Jin Zhao’s focus never wavers. He sacrifices racing, confronts his fears and PTSD, all for her safety and happiness. His words, “Two hearts defying wind and rain together, resisting a broken life,” are poetic yet perfectly encapsulate their journey. Head-holding hug: protective, intimate, grounding. Emotional honesty with Jiang Mu’s mother shows bravery, respect, and true commitment. Every glance, gentle push, and teasing smile signals a love that is strong, unshakable, and matured by trials. The stakes are high, yet their connection remains unbreakable, emphasizing devotion over drama.

Episode 29:
Reconciliation with her mother is emotionally profound—first parental hug for Jin Zhao, symbolizing acceptance and validation. Quiet proposal, ring on keychain, intimate and symbolic—no grandeur needed because their relationship is built on depth, history, and understanding. Elopement feels perfect: carefree yet emotionally complete, mirroring their personalities and journey. Jin Zhao’s devotion is evident in his patience, bravery, and willingness to create a life with Jiang Mu against all odds. Shared dreams, mutual respect, whispered promises, and lingering touches make this payoff both satisfying and cathartic. The ending emphasizes love as a daily choice, a partnership grounded in trust, protection, playfulness, and enduring passion. Their journey is now complete—emotionally, physically, and symbolically.

Read More

Awww....I love the way Lu Xingyan was willing to stay friends just to make Xingruo happy. "Relationships, phases, I don't think any of these things are as important as you. As long as you're happy, I think we're at the best stage. He's respecting her boundaries and that is the sweetest thing and most mature thing he could do at that moment. But then...what happens after that is the opposite of staying friends!! Lu Xingyan is so supportive for whatever Xingruo needs at all him. He understands her so well. Also, his confession on how he wanted to change his own perspective to tailor towards her was so thoughtful and mature. He Siyue and Shi Qin's relationship is not talked about enough. That lawyer was actually insane. The lengths she is going to for her own possessiveness actually scared me. Overall, I loved the way this drama ended, the proposal was so thoughtful and it really closed off their story. The overarching theme that I loved from Lu Xingyan and Shen Xingruo's story is that if people are meant to be, they will always find their way back to one another. Not only that, but constant growth and maturation from both partners will lead to an endless lifetime of support.

Read More

Ugh. This drama honestly got me more annoyed with Fanxing than anything. She is supposed to be the much older one, but Yuan Song is 100x more mature in terms of their relationship. This drama did not have to be 41 episodes of her saying no and him fighting for her. Also, justice for Ye Luming. He deserved so much better. He truly cared about Fanxing and supported her in every way, but she could not reciprocate it. Even till the end, he knew Fanxing wanted to break up with her, but he did it first to save her the guilt. Plus, Cai Minmin’s voice was something I could never get used to. Fanxing’s dad getting early Alzheimer’s was heartbreaking too, but I wanted more expansion on that onto what ended up happening.

Read More