Wntr

Exceeded expectations

I watched the donghua a long time ago, so I was unaware that they made a second season live-action adaptation until now. I was a bit worried and skeptical going in because of all the criticism and hate I saw not just here, but on YouTube as well. But having finished the series, I actually enjoyed it, and it exceeded my expectations.

One thing I particularly liked about this season two is how closely it followed the donghua, while also changing a few things here and there that actually worked in favor of the live action. For example, there was more character development for the rest of the Shrek Seven Devils aside from Xiaowu and Tangsan, which I appreciated. I also liked how Chengxiang was portrayed as more unmoving and hardworking here, whereas she was more self-conscious in the donghua.

Another thing I liked about this second season was the casting and acting. I thought Zhang Yuxi and Zhou Yiran were amazing as Xiaowu and Tangsan. They really brought the couple to life; the heartbreaking scenes, like in episode 20, were gut-wrenching, and their lovey-dovey scenes, where Tangsan was looking after her, were pure and wholesome. I also liked how Bibidong was portrayed. She still had a cold and immovable aura, but the scenes where she showed sadness and tears humanized her character.

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