Reviews

A better execution could have made it a beautiful drama

Love never fails is all about the love story between Jin Xiu, the prince of Midheavens and Hong Ning, a red camellia demon.
As they traverse through different lifetimes, they face unprecedented situations, overcome many difficulties, clear misunderstandings, and finally establish peace in the world.
The first 11 episodes deal with immortal arc and to be honest, I was not quite impressed with the way the love track was developed between the leads. Somehow, I couldn't find the female lead to be cute, but was sometimes annoying too.
The next arc, they are master and disciple, which too ends in tragedy. This arc was much better than the heavens, and then they become general and demon hunter in their next life and in the final arc, ascens to the heavens again, where they find out Jin Xiu's true identity, eliminate evil and bring everything to an end.
I felt that, the last 10 episodes were quite interesting, with mysteries unraveling.
The actors were good in their performances, not the best.
The sets and costumes were very grand though.
Only if the execution was a bit better, it could have been a very good drama, but for me its strictly a one-time watch!!

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Not bad, but could have been a lot better

So overall it's an enjoyable drama if you like office comedies with a bit of investigation and slice of life. The pros are the extraordinary acting, especially of the roommates of 301 and the boss of the FL, the actually quite funny moments and the whole undercover plot that is almost an archetype but can't go really wrong. I get that Park Shin Hye does not look like a 20 year old, but that's also part of the fun, since everyone seems to feel uneasy about her being so young while she seems to be in her 30s. Now let me explain the cons. My biggest issue is the romantic subplot between the FL and the ML (if I can call him ML since his presence was quite unimportant). Even though they seemed like they haven't gotten over each other (they didn't have any other relationships for 9 f*king years O.O plus they still got and cherished each other's hourglass), they had no chemistry and really no role in the story. It would have been much better to not have this subplot at all. Or even better for the FL to have someone else in her life, or even progress her relationship with Albert. It saddens me that there are such powerful characters like the girls from 301 and they all don't have any romantic interest, as if being independent and being in love are polar opposites. And the other major disappointment for me is that the plot seems quite forced. I get it that it is meant to be a comedy above all, but we are talking about huuuge amounts of money, but all the main characters seem to value ethics first. I get it that there must be SOME characters with this mentality, but having almost EVERYONE stand by these values, even the two sole heirs of the Company who were already filthy rich and could have maintained their status, seems a bit of a stretch. Somehow everyone is (or becomes) miraculously righteous and everyone gets what they deserve at the end. Even Go Bok-hee must get some mild imprisonment just to get the meaning across that if you embezzle money you must be punished. Anyway sorry for the long review, it's just that I feel quite disappointed cause this drama could have been sooo much better with almost 0 effort! Anyway I still recommend it, don't get me wrong it was not a bad drama, just didn't reach its full potential!

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The Villain Fell. The System Didn’t. ⚠️ (Spoiler Analysis) ⚠️

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Between the Lines
igiam’s reflections on drama, character and hidden meaning
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At first glance, the ending of the drama appears decisive.

Kang Shin-jin is exposed. Justice is delivered. The protagonist stands firm as the system’s most visible corruption collapses.

But the story quietly suggests something more unsettling.

Because while the villain falls, the system itself does not.

Instead, it reorganizes.

One of the most revealing moments occurs in a brief conversation between Han Young and Baek Yi Seok near the end of the series. The scene seems simple: a few questions, a calm exchange. Yet within those questions lies something deeper.

Baek asks about the missing USB drive — a device containing information capable of destabilizing the entire structure of power. His tone is not anxious or alarmed. He remains calm, almost analytical. It is not fear that motivates his curiosity, but awareness. Baek understands systems, and people who understand systems rarely ignore information that can reshape them.

He also asks about Se Hui. Earlier in the drama, many characters assumed that Han Young and Se Hui might eventually marry. Baek’s question acknowledges that expectation, yet Han Young’s response closes the door on that possibility. The relationship was never truly viable. Se Hui lives under the shadow of her father’s authority, and Han Young knows that any future with her would always be entangled with that power.

Later, when Han-young checks on her indirectly, it does not necessarily contradict his earlier words. It reads less like romantic attachment and more like responsibility. After all, he used her involvement in his strategy and understands the consequences she must now carry.

What gives this scene its real significance is its contrast with the drama’s final sequence at Soejae. Kang Shin Jin’s downfall does not lead to revolution. Instead, a new circle of power begins to form. Military authority appears in the room. A new leadership structure emerges. And Baek Yi Seok is seated quietly beside the new center of influence.

The drama never declares Baek corrupt.

But it does leave us with a question.

If the system survives every collapse, does justice truly defeat corruption — or merely reset the balance of power?

In that sense, the ending may not be about the fall of a villain at all.

🎯 Perhaps the story was never about the fall of a villain, but about the quiet persistence of the system that produced him.

— igiam | Observing Stories Between the Lines

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Finally an entertaining, not dumb kdrama!

I've watched so many kdramas and cdramas this last year and I've been extremely disappointed by most of them! So my scores for this drama are probably a bit higher bc they're in comparison to the terrible kdramas I've had to sit through hoping they wouldn't be as bad as they were.

Does this drama have a unique, complicated, never-seen before plot? No.
Was the story well-written though? Yes!

Finally top k-actors were put into good use and they delivered great performances with incredible comedic moments! I dont know what it is exactly that people are judging when they write their reviews or give out scores, but in no way this is a below 8.5 drama, especially compared to the ones released this last year.

Let me say it again: the comedic moments were truly amazing! The editors should be applauded here bc they knew how to edit the hell out of the material they got! The OST fit the era of the show very well too.

And the actors were all a top-tier cast! Even the new-face actor Albert Oh was well-suited to his role.

By the way one thing I really LOVED was the female characters and the relationships that they showed between them. Showing women standing up for each other and creating genuine friendships really tagged on my heartstrings. And the female lead being a badass with her martial arts skills and being the one saving the other women instead of a male character doing it.. chef's kiss!

Overall such an entertaining watch! A breath of fresh air compared to the last 5 kdramas I've watched.

Good job to all the creators of this drama, they've done what many other k-creators have failed to do. They delivered a lovely show!

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Forget everything you know about "toxic romance."

Don't worry, there's a way to save the series: JUST MAKE FLINT THE VILLAIN, AND HAVE SUN END UP WITH SOMEONE ELSE OR BE ALONE.
Why does Flint keep clinging to Sun all the time? I know that kind of scene is meant to create tension and give us butterflies, but when it happens 5 times in the first few episodes, and it's implied that the protagonists didn't have a history of flirting before, it feels strange. They know each other from the past, when Sun was still in high school and Flint still saw her as a little girl, so it doesn't make sense for her to just start attacking the girl every time she has the chance. It even seems like Flint made some kind of bet or something, because she goes after Sun every time she has a chance, even though there's NO atmosphere for it. And why does Sun always seem to be on the verge of tears? Does she have some past trauma or something? If so, fine, but if it's just to show how fragile the character is around Flint, I didn't like it. In 2 episodes she almost cries about 4 times. Enough already!

Another point I didn't like was Sun explaining herself by saying, "Do you really think I'm that kind of girl?", referring to the fake news that she was seen entering a hotel with a guy. What would be the problem? Couldn't she be dating a guy and go out with him on a date? Please! It's ridiculous for her to say that to Flint as if it were "absurd" for her to go out with a guy. Flint's justification is "You can't tarnish the company's image," so Sun can't be seen going out with a guy, but it's okay if she's seen going home with Flint? It doesn't make sense.

And when Flint keeps interfering in Sun's work? What was that? Please, there's no way to ruin an artist's career more than always having someone behind them, demanding scene changes, script alterations, etc. And the worst part is that Flint believes everyone except Sun. It doesn't matter if the girl says 20 times that she's not dating a guy, Flint always believes others, discredits Sun, and even demands behavior from her that Flint herself doesn't have... Flint is like: "Don't flirt with guys, don't date anyone, don't act in on-screen kisses, don't even let your photographer touch you... but I can do all that with you, even though we're nothing to each other"... But Flint, she already said she's not having a romance with that actor! - "But the actor said he is, and I believe him more than Sun." But Flint, even if she were dating the actor, that's none of your business; it would even be good for boosting ratings for their show! "It doesn't matter! I act as if I'm dating Sun, as if she were mine, so she must obey me, submit to my interference and not talk back... and anyone's word is more important than hers."

And the worst part is that she makes up that she slept with the girl because she was annoyed with Nope! SERIOUSLY? Who's more awful, Nope or Flint? I'm honestly starting to think Nope is a "better" option. How can the show criticize Nope for inventing a romance when the protagonist herself does the same thing?

The only good thing about this show, and what saves it, is the secondary couple!
I wasn't going to say anything, but since it's a sensitive subject, I decided to elaborate: Regarding the "problematic scene," all I have to say is:

* She was crying;
* Pushing the person away with all her might;
* Afraid;
* Asking to stop several times;
* And she says "Yes" at the end because she saw that if she gave in, it would end faster, because there was no way to escape, because Flint wouldn't "hurt her as much," and because she would come out looking "right" in the end.

This is not consent, it's instinct for self-preservation: When we give in to something we know we don't want and that will be painful, but we know that if we don't give in, it will be worse. It doesn't matter if she has feelings for Flint or not, and whoever uses that as an excuse is normalizing marital rape, be careful! Loving doesn't mean having a duty to give in even if you don't want to. If this scene were between a man and a woman, we wouldn't even be discussing it.

And before you say "but that's how it is in real life," "but that's a problematic relationship that will get better later": 1) In what life is this "normal"? In the life of a victim! Because in a RELATIONSHIP this is not normal, and if it is for you, I advise you to see a psychologist urgently. Yes, in real life this happens, and when it does, we call the police, report it, and separate the victim from the abuser. We don't leave the abuser with the victim and say, "calm down, he will improve in the future! Your relationship can still work out." 2) This is not a problematic relationship. A problematic relationship doesn't include a victim and a criminal; it includes two people who have PROBLEMS that can be solved with conversation, therapy, etc. Problems, not crimes. Understand?

It's crazy that in "Call Me By No Name" exactly what's happening now is happening. A woman abuses another woman, but when she reports it to the police, nothing happens because people claim that "this doesn't happen" between women, people don't see it as a "crime" because it's illogical to think that a woman could abuse another out of "malice." It must just be a misunderstanding... So you who are defending this scene are exactly the same as the people who didn't defend the protagonist of "Call Me By No Name"... I never thought I'd see this happening.

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A Rose Petal Bed on Firm Land to Rest Your Weary Heart and Head

Present, embracing, and nurturing. That just about perfectly sums up this drama and the romance at the heart of it.

Not only was The Earth so warm both with its earth tones and general concept, but the FLs love for each other as well.

In every word and action, stolen glance and direct stare, you could feel their tender affections for each other.

Their love was like the sun I gratefully basked in.

And the rally of support for their blossoming relationship from their close circle of people was lovely to see.

I do think conflicts between the side characters/antagonists could have been wrapped up better. Some wrongs were too quickly forgiven and forgotten. But the bad case of "love aggression" I came down with covered my eyes with a rose-petaled veil and made me forget all my objections/criticisms as quickly as they came up.

I hope you watch it and fall for this couple as hard as I did! Don't miss out!

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Love You Teacher (2026) – Episode 1

This new series from GMMTV starts with an unusual but intriguing premise.

Phumek is an elementary school teacher who is actually terrible with children.
Their chaotic energy overwhelms him, and keeping control of his classroom feels almost impossible. Being late for class and getting called to the principal’s office seems to be a regular occurrence for him.

The only thing that keeps him going is his boyfriend Solar, who teaches at the same school. Solar is the complete opposite of Phumek: a natural teacher, loved by the students, and someone who seems to handle everything effortlessly.

But everything changes when Solar is hit by a car in front of the school and regresses mentally to the mind of a seven-year-old child.

The story seems to explore how Phumek, who has relied heavily on Solar for emotional support, will deal with this sudden change and what it means to truly care for someone you love.

Phumek appears to be a rather awkward and emotionally complicated character. Through Ji, a childhood neighbor who has recently transferred to the school, we learn that Phumek has apparently been a bit of a mess since he was young.

This is the first main series led by the pairing of Tanapon Sukumpantanasan and Santa Pongsapak Udompoch.
After watching Perth in several projects since Love by Chance, Santa actually feels like a very comfortable partner for him. Perth fits surprisingly well into the role of a devoted and slightly overprotective boyfriend.

The tone is light at first glance, but the premise hints that the story may eventually explore deeper emotional themes such as dependence, responsibility, and personal growth.

For a first episode, the show leaves a good impression.

Ratings (after Episode 1)
Story: 8
Acting: 8
Chemistry: 8.5

Expectation level: 4/5

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A Standard Romcom Experience!

This is a show that repeatedly had me second guessing all my theories regarding it.

I loved the story and pacing the most. It stays lighthearted throughout even when talking about real world dating dynamics and past hurt. But this drama takes a unique concept like VR dating and makes it even more unique with it's quirky plot twists and enjoyable character dynamics.

For eg. Making a character like Gu Yeongil who resembles Park Kyeongnam was a genius plot point. Not only does it reveal Mirae's inner feelings for Kyeongnam without excessive telling and without her even realizing it because she made Yeongil, it also gives the story the necessary conflict to progress Kyeongnam and Mirae's relationship further in her real world. Likewise, having other supporting characters also use the game made it feel much more realistic and the world of BoD more lived in other than a simple plot device. Also loved how the VR game itself helps Mirae learn and grow and complete her character arc from being heartbroken and fearful to healed and brave.

I also loved Jisoo as Seo Mirae and Seo In Guk as Park Kyeongnam's chemistry. They naturally formed a team and their dating era was very easy to watch and follow. I loved the reciprocity in their relationship even though Mirae was infuriatingly prickly at points in the beginning as well as childish. Once they started dating, she became the sweetest to Kyeongnam and very involved which was refreshing to watch. I especially enjoyed all the gentle and tender physical touches in this show, from the loving way Mirae cradles Kyeongnam's face to their easy hugs and cuddles.

This drama shows real world love surprisingly realistically making the VR game a central part of the story but always in tandem with the development and progress of the lead's relationship. Also must mention the obvious thought and effort put info fhe VR game concept itself, from the packaging that looked creepily realistic, to the ads on deatures like texts and calls from the VR boyfriends, the safiricalway the show mocks capitalistic culture with endless subscriptions and how every VR BF is trained to keep customers hooked to the actual product which is at the end of the day, a plain business. It got me wondsring how a drastically different show coukdvebeen possible with this same concept, one that was much darker dwelling in on tbe parasitic nature of a game like this if it really existed in our lives, a reality we kight be heading to much sooner than later!

This drama on the other hand thankfully ends on a beautiful note encouraging bravery even when we know things can inevitably get scary such as finally allowing oneself to open to another relationship after the bittersweet end of an old one.

Seo In Guk is one of my all time favorites and he shines in this drama in every frame, both as Kyeongnam and Gu Yeongil. The vulnerability he brought to Kyeongnam and the heartbreaking way in which he delivered that love confession in ep 8 particularly standout and has gone staright to my top 10 favorite confession scenes of all time and my favorite scene in this entire show. Big props to the writer for the perfect dialogues too.

Jisoo is truly the star of the show both role wise and in execution. She brings life and color to Mirae and the drama as a whole and shines most in the lighthearted moments and with comedy. She struggles a bit evidently in emotional scenes, especially with crying, particularly obvious when opposite an actor like Seo In Guk in the confession scene in ep 8 and other sadder moments.

The supporting cast makes the world of BoD feel warmer and the cameos are perfectly placed. From Seo Kang Joon and his incredibly expressive eyes who plays Seonho who is a highlight to Lee Soo Hyuk, Lee Jae Wook. Ong Seong Wu, Kim Young Dae and all the others, the show creates a perfect balance between the VR subplot as well as Mirae's real world relationships.

My only complains were that I wish Kyeongnam's character had more depth written for him, a short backstory or something exploring his talent in drawing, and that I wish the drama relied more on showing rather than telling in revealing Kyeongnam's feelings from the first moment they began instead of a rushed montage limited to one episode. Both Mirae and Kyeongnam keep saying things without the drama showing them which was pretty frustrating. I think this has more to do with choosing to begin the story right in the middle of Mirae and Kyeongnam's established office dynamics which in my opinion, should've begun from the first moment they met as strangers to how they became rivals up to the present. This seems to be an unfortunate trend these days with dramas choosing to show thos natural progression of feelings and the "falling in love" part which should be the hgihlight of romance stories anyway, and instead rushing this most importsnt aspect into a preinstalled formula of characters already having feelings from the first episode.

But none of these flaws are gaping holes considering the tone of show remains consistently lighthearted. Other than the slightly rushed pacing between Mirae's initial reluctance to give love a chance again with Kyeongnam and her immediately throwing in all the enthusiasm into beginning a relationship with him one kiss later between ep 8 and 9, the show has a consistently solid pace and tone.

To end with: this is a thorough romcom meant to be enjoyed without too much analysis. I would recommend it for those who enjoyed shows like Business Proposal and Spring Fever.

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Sensual, Forbidden Love Drama That I Loved Way Too Much

Love in the Moonlight is a gorgeous, emotional, sometimes over-the-top dramatic love story between a prince and a musician set against the political turmoil of the 60s. This couple that will undoubtedly linger with you long after the credits roll.

The plot is nothing new but the drama left me speechless simply because of its execution. I wouldn’t say it’s particularly high-budget, and yes, it has some sound issues, but the way it’s shot—and the creators’ attempts to recreate that old-school lakorn feel—actually adds an interesting flavor to the overall packaging.

The story revolves around an extremely complicated love triangle (but not quite a triangle) between a young woman Pin, Prince Saenkaew, and Pin’s cousin Sasin.

Pin and Saenkaew are engaged (or rather forced to) for their families’ mutual benefit. Saenkaew’s family is running away from the new political regime and needs to have a family is running away from the new political regime and needs to have a Thai relative to transfer their assets to to avoid confiscation. Pin’s family is broke. So the parents get together and decide that marriage is the best option for each family to get what they need.

And while Pin likes Saenkaew, he doesn’t see her more than her little sister. Not because there’s something wrong with her—no, she is very wifey material—but simply because he doesn’t like women.

Enter Pin’s cousin, Sasin. The sparks fly right away, even if characters are clueless in the first few episodes.

This a tension filled forbidden love trope set against the political turmoil of the early 60s, a time when same-sex relationships were frowned upon and people faced judgment for their feelings. This is especially complicated for a royal family. With the political regime changing, dignity and respect is all Saenkaew’s father thinks their family has left as they are on the run from the new regime that does not recognizing royalty. He does not want anyone to find out that his only son is gay, so whether Saenkaew wants to get married or not the poor guy has to. It’s the only way for his father to ensure his son is safe. But his father really does it in such a roundabout way, using every method available to him, including violence.

Poor prince Saenkaew is stuck in a hopeless situation. He is caring the legacy of his entire family on his shoulders. The stakes get higher when Sasin turns into more than just Pin’s cousin. He eve irritates Saenkaew's planned out life, throwing his world into chaos.

Let’s be real: the characters aren’t perfect. In fact, they’re far from it. Saenkaew and Sasin pull some morally questionable stunts—not particularly in terms of loving one another but in their efforts to shield others, especially Pin, from the truth. They are trying to solve the problem without taking into account that it’s not just the two of them, but their respective families in the picture. Yet, toward the end of the drama they are redeemable because they come to terms with their flaws. That includes Pin, who probably shouldn’t have done what she did. But I could actually understand why she did it. I think many women in such situation would do exactly the same thing. There wasn’t much time for them to think anything through before the wedding.

The acting is superb, especially the intimate moments between Sasin and Saenkaew; they feel natural and genuine rather than acted out. And the music? Absolutely amazing! It enhances the overall emotional and melancholic vibe of the drama.

Sure, you'll find yourself hating the characters at times. There are some truly unredeemable individuals in this drama, but, spoiler alert, they get what’s coming to them. While there's a sprinkle of comic relief, don't expect the lighthearted banter typical of K-dramas. For the most part, Love in the Moonlight is dramatically over-the-top, which works well to ground viewers in the era the creators are depicting.

There are episodes, like the heart-wrenching sixth one, that reveal the depths of the character's struggles, it hits hard.

I truly loved this drama. I've been on a bit of a bad streak with new BL dramas lately—trying out several—and only one was decent. But Love in the Moonlight turned out absolutely amazing! I doubt anything can top it from 2025, except maybe Top Form, but that’s a whole different kettle of fish. I’m mostly talking about the emotional depth, the complexity of the characters, and how intimacy is portrayed on screen.

If you like dramas that rip your heart before putting it back together, this one’s for you. The on-screen chemistry is truly remarkable. You may need to suspend your disbelief a little, but that's par for the course in any romance drama. Definitely give this one a watch!

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Dark Subject Matter but Well Played

I give this movie a 9/10 not because it has any flaw that detracts but mainly, for me, I am not as big of fan of movies that portray the darker aspects of life. It's technically very well-made and does an excellent job portraying the harsh realities of someone forced to flee their country and live illegally in another—especially in an extreme case like a North Korean defector's. Refugees, before they have legal status, inevitably end up dealing with the most undesirable elements of society because of the undocumented status, and the film captures that grim truth without sugarcoating it. It's dark and a little depressing, but that's the reality—there are some very dark and depressing things in this world.

I enjoyed watching it. Would recommend to those that like dramas that expose a harsh reality in life with a romantic element. I wouldn't say it is a romance per se, the focus i not on that for a large portion of the movie, but more a slice of a really difficult lens of life.

Spoilers

The acting is strong across the board; everyone plays their roles convincingly. I was pleasantly surprised by the actors that played the locals in Brussels—the European actors in Asian productions are often B-grade or worse, but these felt like solid, capable performers.

The story really sticks with you. Things such as when Marie was looking at Loh Kiwan's scars and he said he got some of them from carrying razor blades because the place they left was so bad they would rather die than return was haunting and powerful. They do not need to show you what their life was like in North Korea to understand it was extremely bad.

Her life isn't much better. Somewhat of her own making just having extreme grief from the horrible way she lost her mother. So, she is also dwelling in the underground, crime ridden, layer of society. And that is how they meet. She is dealing with her life by being reckless and almost inviting something bad to happen. Through it all, Loh Kiwan and Marie stay good people at their core. She wasn't necessarily doing the best things when he met her, but he sort of brought her back to herself. Although he met her when she stole his wallet, he could see that goodness in her still and it was very heartwarming. The film showed, in many aspects, this realistic range of how people handle such difficulties—for example, the lady with kids (Seon-ju) who stole the meat. Loh Kiwan lectures her at first but then understands her desperation. And he even sees her point, that they aren't getting paid enough to even buy food, so it is survival. It's disappointing when she lies and says he isn't North Korean, but given the circumstances, it makes sense—and she truly redeems herself by finding proof about his mother.

I loved how Marie's dad comes to see that Loh Kiwan is really a great guy. I just wish we'd had a bit more time with their reunion. The romance is beautifully done; I really wanted the best for these two after the incredibly hard lives they'd both led.

I was a little disappointed in the end just because it was brief, and hard to determine where they were. It's not entirely clear what country they're in during the final scenes or exactly how it allows him to come and go freely (it might be the USA based on some interpretations, but the film keeps it ambiguous—likely a place where his refugee status enables more mobility).

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I liked second couple more & FL was less annoying in this version

I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the poster of this drama upon its release. I like 3 out of 4 cast members - Han Jia Hui, Chen Zheng Yang & Duan Mei Yang. I am familiar of the plot as I have seen the Wang Nian Jiang Cheng - He Tian Tian - Xue Zi Qi - Xiang Shuai version. I liked this version too. I'd like to see collab between Han Jia Hui and Duan Mei Yang and between her and Chen Zheng Yang.

What I liked:
1. Romance couple #2 - Fiery. Passionate. She was not as aggressive as XZQ's SML but more loving. Hot kisses & intimate scenes.
2. Personalities - I liked that opposite attracts concept was explored & done well.
3. Styling - I really liked the clothes chosen for ML, SFL & SML. SFL looked hot in little black dress & businesswear.
4. Characterisation - All four were done well. FL wasn't too childish & cloying like He Tian Tian's FL.
5. Acting - All 4 gave good performances. There was better chemistry between 4 leads - even between the ladies and the gents.
6. Ending - I was surprised and liked it.

What I disliked:
1. Romance couple #1 - Not sure why the kisses were lacklustre when I know that Chen Zheng Yang & Cheng Zi can kiss. It felt as though director wanted to make FL innocent young girl / lolita vibe.
2. Styling for FL - Her dressing made her look like a high school student.
3. Antagonist - FL's cousin was pathetic. Also disliked brothers' father.
4. Third act - Felt long & draggy.

Favourite scene
Bath tub

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Love, Struggles, and Life in the 1970s

As the title suggests, Love Story in the 1970s is exactly that, a simple love story set in a very specific historical period. The drama takes us back to 1970s China and shows a time when life appeared simple on the surface but was actually full of social pressure, limited opportunities, and strict systems that shaped people’s lives.

The story follows Fei Ni, a hardworking young woman who works in a textile factory but dreams of changing her life through education. During that time, getting into university depended on recommendations rather than exams, and Fei Ni repeatedly struggles to secure one. Her life becomes even more complicated when she reconnects with her former classmate Fang Mu Yang, who becomes known as a local hero after getting injured while saving people. Feeling both responsible and hopeful that helping him might improve her chances at a recommendation, Fei Ni begins taking care of him. As life pressures grow, especially housing problems within her family, she proposes a fake marriage so they can obtain a house. What begins as a practical arrangement slowly turns into a genuine relationship as they navigate everyday struggles together.

Fei Ni’s character carries much of the emotional weight of the drama. She constantly faces setbacks such as rejections from university, unstable living conditions, and the burden of always putting others before herself. At times her kindness almost feels frustrating because she sacrifices so much for others. However, as the story progresses, her persistence and sincerity become the core of her character. Rather than turning into a dramatic strong heroine, she grows gradually, learning to stand up for herself and becoming more confident over time.

Fang Mu Yang also undergoes noticeable development. In the beginning he can feel overly passive and somewhat frustrating, especially with the memory loss storyline. However, once he regains his memory, his character becomes much more proactive and mature. His relationship with Fei Ni slowly transforms into a genuine partnership, and their love story is portrayed in a very innocent and gentle way. Their quiet moments together, studying in libraries, supporting each other’s dreams, and navigating daily struggles, create a sweet and simple romance.

Interestingly, the secondary couple Fang Mu Jing and Qu Hua sometimes feels even more compelling than the main pair. Their relationship is built on tension, misunderstandings, and gradual emotional growth. Fang Mu Jing is an especially fascinating character. She is ambitious, guarded, and deeply independent because of her difficult past. Qu Hua enters her life with emotional baggage of his own, including the painful truth that he initially married her because she resembled someone he once loved. Their slow journey toward genuine affection adds another emotional layer to the drama.

Of course, the drama also includes characters designed to test viewers’ patience. Feng Lin, in particular, acts as a constant source of conflict with her manipulative and jealous behavior. While frustrating, she serves her role well as an antagonist, and seeing her face consequences later on is quite satisfying.

One aspect the drama handles well is pacing in terms of conflict resolution. Even though there are many obstacles including career struggles, family issues, misunderstandings, and social pressure, most conflicts are resolved fairly quickly rather than dragging on for too long. This helps keep the story moving even when the overall plot is fairly simple.

The production design also deserves praise. The costumes, sets, and small visual details effectively recreate the atmosphere of the 1970s. From the modest clothing to the simple hairstyles and housing environments, the drama does a good job immersing viewers in that era. Even the opening title sequence is thoughtfully designed and gradually fills a color palette as the story progresses.

That being said, the drama is not without flaws. The overall storyline can feel predictable, and sometimes slow, and certain parts of the narrative carry strong moral messaging. Sometimes it also feels that the story lacks deeper complexity despite its interesting historical backdrop.

Overall, Love Story in the 1970s is a gentle and character driven drama that focuses more on everyday struggles and quiet emotional growth than on dramatic twists. While the story can occasionally feel slow or predictable, it offers heartfelt moments, solid performances, and an interesting glimpse into life during that era. It may not be the most thrilling drama, but it provides a warm and reflective viewing experience for those who enjoy slower relationship focused stories.

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