Enemies to Lovers...done right
Cast:
Firstly, before watching this drama, I didn't know Chen Zheyuan and didn't remember Li Qin (though I watched Princess Agents). I saw some short videos of the earlier episodes and intrigued by the leads whipping each other. I was initially worried that CZY's pretty visuals might work against the story, but he played the role perfectly (and I'm gonna keep an eye out for his future works). And I love Li Qin as Fu Yixiao. She's strong, elegant, and believable as a female general. As I started watching the drama, I was in awe of how gorgeous Fu Yixiao is.
I know the drama was mainly betting on CZY's popularity, but it would not work this well had he been paired with a less suitable actress.
Supporting characters are all generally good. If i have to pick one to critique, it'd be the SML. For the amount of screen time he gets, his character is flat, and he had the same face in the whole show. Acting-wise, the Jinxiu emperor actor, Qin Tian Yu, was a better actor in my opinion, and I wish he got a better ending.
Story and pacing:
Overall, it's nicely paced. The earlier episodes were exciting and I'd enjoy rewatching them. However, Jinxiu scenes in later part of the shows felt draggy and I had to fast forward them. The princess character development is also weak. They tried to make her sound like an independent woman with strong opinions, but she was a brat from start to finish. I think her screen time is even comparable to FYX if not more.
Comment on the source material:
While I was waiting for new episodes to come out, I decided to check out the original novel (which I tend to do if I get curious enough about the story). I have to say, this is one of those rare instances where the adaptation may be better the source. The plot in the novel is quite chaotic and the romance is less enjoyable. I dropped after skimming ~2 chapters.
Firstly, before watching this drama, I didn't know Chen Zheyuan and didn't remember Li Qin (though I watched Princess Agents). I saw some short videos of the earlier episodes and intrigued by the leads whipping each other. I was initially worried that CZY's pretty visuals might work against the story, but he played the role perfectly (and I'm gonna keep an eye out for his future works). And I love Li Qin as Fu Yixiao. She's strong, elegant, and believable as a female general. As I started watching the drama, I was in awe of how gorgeous Fu Yixiao is.
I know the drama was mainly betting on CZY's popularity, but it would not work this well had he been paired with a less suitable actress.
Supporting characters are all generally good. If i have to pick one to critique, it'd be the SML. For the amount of screen time he gets, his character is flat, and he had the same face in the whole show. Acting-wise, the Jinxiu emperor actor, Qin Tian Yu, was a better actor in my opinion, and I wish he got a better ending.
Story and pacing:
Overall, it's nicely paced. The earlier episodes were exciting and I'd enjoy rewatching them. However, Jinxiu scenes in later part of the shows felt draggy and I had to fast forward them. The princess character development is also weak. They tried to make her sound like an independent woman with strong opinions, but she was a brat from start to finish. I think her screen time is even comparable to FYX if not more.
Comment on the source material:
While I was waiting for new episodes to come out, I decided to check out the original novel (which I tend to do if I get curious enough about the story). I have to say, this is one of those rare instances where the adaptation may be better the source. The plot in the novel is quite chaotic and the romance is less enjoyable. I dropped after skimming ~2 chapters.
Was this review helpful to you?
