Compelling historical drama with some strong performances
This probably won't appeal to some people since it's a serious drama, becomes increasingly depressing and doesn't have a strong romance. However I'm still thinking about the characters after finishing it and despite some of the flaws, it's probably one of the better historical dramas I've seen in a while.As most viewers probably know, this show was supposed to air in 2022 but was pulled at the last minute so it's not clear how much of this final version has changed or been edited.
Set during the death throes of the Qing dynasty it explores the various factions - royalist and revolutionist - trying to change China for the better. The five leads have diverse personalities, flawed characters and are not obvious heroes. Alot of the early action takes place in Japan, which is unusual for a C-drama (usually the Japanese are portrayed as obvious villains but here they are more nuanced), and everything looks big-budget with loads of extras, carriages, costumes and lots of period detail.
All five leads are interesting. It's strange to see Li Xian play the rather grey character of nobleman Liang Xiang instead of his usual hero roles. Then we have the rabid bomb-making anarchist, the idealist revolutionary, the pragmatic opportunistic soldier and the woman who inadvertantly becomes a revolutionist and is involved with three of the male leads. The FL's character is very different to what we usually see in C-dramas, both passive and active, and surely non-conformist for the times. There were some scenes when I did want to slap her and say " wake up woman!" but generally you root for her.
There are important real historical figures as well as the fictional ones, which made me read up on my Chinese history. Apparently, even Liang Xiang is based on a real person.
The acting is of a good standard and this is clearly a quality production. However, it does suffer from editing and sometimes I just wanted to see more of Shuhong rather than the endless military politicking but I did not fast forward once which says alot.
Recommended if you enjoy historical dramas based on fact and don't expect to see a big romance.
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Cinematically gorgeous and a heartwarming story
Nothing much happens in this drama but it is so engaging and lovely to look at that you really don't mind.It is a simple story well told. The depictions of nomad Kazakh life set 20+ years ago are obviously appealing to jaded viewers like me, fed up with typical recycled C-dramas. There is a slight discomfort about the political implications of Chinese incursions into this region but it doesn't detract from the strong performances, beautiful scenery, and hankering for a simpler life based around community and tradition.
Let's face it, these sorts of dramas are bound to appeal to city dwellers like me. If I were actually transplanted there I would no doubt find it uncomfortable and unpleasant but on screen it looks inviting even despite the hardship.
The cast is great, the budding romance and first love theme is touching and the ending entirely fitting.
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