Reviews

The Past and the Present Rewrite the Future

The past and the present meet to rewrite their future. That is the central theme of this drama and at its core are two 19-year-olds fighting to survive in a world full of strife. This drama has been compared to the likes of the K-drama, Signal (which was inspired by the Hollywood film, Frequency), The Lake House or Il Mare, and the Japanese animated film, Your Name. The comparison is spot on, the premise is indeed similar about two separate timelines converging through a mysterious mail box and an orange tabby cat that is seemingly responsible for this connection.

As much as I loved this drama, I must warn those who are looking to start it. Don't go into this if you're not prepared for the possible emotional torment it will put you through. This is not a story of flowers, sunshine, and butterflies, it's a tale of woe and tragedy, and it'll break your heart at the very least. This is one of the most emotionally heavy C-dramas I've seen to date. It is set in both 1991 and 2026, following the tragic love of Ye Haitang and Tang Yixun, and their beautiful but miserable life together, spanning 35 years of sadness and longing.

Abandoned by her mother as a child, Ye Haitang was raised by a violent and abusive father, constantly living in fear and overcome with hatred. Tang Yixun is an orphan, struggling to make a living as a debt collector. Their paths meet and they form a bond that transcends familial and romantic love. But as luck would have it, fate seems to be determined to tear them apart, and it would've succeeded if not for the appearance of a magical mail box, giving them a second chance at happiness.

I'm not gonna lie, this drama is only 12 episodes long but it took me a week to finish it because it's not an easy watch. Some of the scenes are so heartbreakingly painful and the strong performances from the cast made me even more emotional that I had to take a break from watching it. Don't get me wrong, this is a superbly written, produced, and acted drama, but it's not the type of show that I will want to rewatch again and again. I literally ran out of tissues! Episode 8, most especially, drove me to tears that I ended up crying in my sleep! I tip my hat to Zhou Yiran, Wang Yinglu, and the rest of the cast, you succeeded in tormenting me deeply. Thank you for the sweet pain you inflicted on me! lol

As for the controversial ending, I actually don't mind it. I would've preferred if they had explicitly told the viewers what exactly happened to the characters, but I'll take it. I have some theories regarding the ending and I'm fine if I never get to find out what it truly means. I rather like the idea that I get to imagine my own ending. In my head, Haitang and Yixun are happily married in their 50's and Yu Nian and Shen Cheng met again, but under different circumstances. This is a 10 for me. Only the second C-drama that I have given such a rating. I don't think I will rewatch it anytime soon, though.

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pleasantly surprised

Wanted to watch this drama a couple of times but the unsure as to whether it will be good,but after watching one episode i couldn't stop. Its so good and totally relatable in day to day lives of any people.
Growing love, miscommunications and misunderstandings, expectations and pressure from the outside (family, friends, traditions...), looking for and fighting for happiness, women trying to make their lives better in a strongly patriarchal society.

The characters are great, acting is on point and oh the plot ... The plot is amazing, it hits you out of nowhere! It definitely makes you feel some feelings other dramas don't and you'll definitely start questioning stuff. With wonderful misic everything fit.

It is worth while romantic drama. Recommend it!

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I don't understand all of the 10/10 reviews here!

Okay so this is definitely a fluffy, super "positive", and innocent stories we like to watch. However, this is also one of the toxic BL troupes that has become normalized. Since most of the reviews are extremely positive, I don't have to spend time talking about it. So let's talk about the negatives. I don't find it cute the depiction and romantization of someone forcing themselves to be gay. It's like "against my will" and against my "better judgment" that I'll be with you. Even though I hated/found disgusting the idea at first, my body wants it so I guess it's okay. Also MC is unbearably annoying! I know this is cultural so I won't judge the over the top dramatization of every reaction (anime like live characters). However, the over the top reaction to a kiss and proximity made this be so annoying that I couldn't continue watching. I don't mind no physical contact, but the extreme reaction to it is unrealistic and over the top. I dropped it after the first episode the first time I tried watching it. Years later I tried again and only made it to episode 4. Most people seem to like it so I guess that's okay. But lets end the notion of forced queerness being something fluffy and romantic!

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Second only to Love in the Clouds

Going in, I expected another xianxia tale built around fated romance and star-crossed lovers. What I got was all of that but with enough twists to feel genuinely fresh. I DID NOT EXPECT TO CRY.

The central story does revolve around a fated romance, but what makes MM stand out is that it's really the supporting female lead's story at heart. The characters don't just surrender to destiny either, they push back, make real choices, and find their own paths. It kept the emotional payoffs from feeling predictable or cheap.

Bai Lu as the female lead is simply outstanding. She brings warmth, depth, and a quiet strength to her role that anchors the whole drama. Ao Ruipeng, meanwhile, doesn't have many lines but watching his gaze gradually soften over the episodes is quietly mesmerizing. He does a lot with very little, and it works beautifully.

The second couple's storyline is a genuine highlight too, complete with a plot twist I did not see coming. And the clan backstories, rather than feeling like lore-dumping, actually help you understand and care about the world you're in.
Production-wise, the makeup (and costumes) is stunning throughout - clearly a labor of love.

MM sits at the top of my xianxia list, second only to Love in the Clouds. This one is absolutely worth your time.

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I've gotten this drama recommended to me for so long now but I never got the chance to watch it until recently. Might I just say it DID NOT disappoint. Li Yun Rui is one of the gems I only found recently and he's already skyrocketed to some of my favorite actors. This man can genuinely have chemistry with a stick I actually believe it. Also, in the intro he looks so good and natural with gray hair, might I just say it suits him so well (Somebody please put him in gray hair more). The first episode in general was done so well, it hooked me in immediately. Meng Ziyi also does such a good job playing Dou Zhao, shes always captivated me with her peformances and this drama isnt an exception. Xia Zhiguang (Ji Yong) also did such a good job. Genuinely he might have been my favorite character in the whole drama, comedic, prioritizes the greater good, ended up catching everyone in the end, and most importantly didn't turn evil or tried to steal away Dou Zhao from Song Mo. I also really loved Dou Ming in her second life, she was sweet, nice, and never turned on Dou Zhao, sadly the scene where she was dying and only saw Wei Tingyu drinking made me feel so bad for her. However, Wei Tingyu after all this happened clutching her painting in the rain was just as sad of a sight.

This is one of my best finds of 2026. Plot is really entertaining, I didn't expect the Ji Yong stuff until the very end when it was revealed. The only few plot holes were the fact that Dou Zhao did all of this while pregnant, and the fact that Song Mo's loving brother suddenly turned evil and couldn't control himself?? Other than that this drama was a pleasure to watch. I wish Song Mo could've had gray hair more (selfish thoughts) or the drama connected more of it to their past selves (I swear Dou Zhao never explained to Song Mo the dream and he never remembered either just remembered her wearing a mask). However, even without this it was still my best costume drama of the year. If you haven't watched this and are lingering on the reviews go watch it right now I promise you won't regret it.

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Not the Usual Plot: Captivating but Confusing

The Story is a bit confusing and left a 'why' in many scenes. Probably because the novel is actually very long and they tried to fit it into 38 episodes. Some part of past events are told in a short conversation later in the drama.

The story focused on the ML as the ordinary man who forget his past that somewhow turn into a superpower warrior, so there will be just a little portion of Cheng Lei as the Prince. A lot of romantic scene with FL, but lack of chemistry (comparing with other Cheng Lei FL).
CL acting are great as always, but SY wasn't that impressive.
Soundtrack are good. Nothing will goes wrong with Ning Ge as singer.
I continue watching because curious for the revealing moment of ML past. And it happend in a few last episodes.
I like the love story of ML and FL, but I'm not rooting for them. I prefer the 2nd couple , and I actually like the 3rd couple (their sad story make me scream whyyyyy).

warning: If you wish to see Cheng Lei as the ruthless Grand General & Royal Prince Duan Aodeng, you'll be dissapointed.

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A Goddess, A Crown Prince, and a Love That Refused to Die

The drama is divided into three major arcs: Si Yin and Mo Yuan, Su Su and Ye Hua, and finally Bai Qian and Ye Hua.

The first arc lays the foundation of the world and relationships. While some may find it slower, it builds the emotional depth that pays off later. The real emotional turning point begins in the mortal arc between Su Su and Ye Hua. Their love in the mortal realm is tender, soft, and deeply moving. However, once Su Su is taken to the Celestial Palace, the tone shifts dramatically. Miscommunication, secrets, palace politics, and Ye Hua’s misguided attempts to “protect” her lead to devastating consequences. That arc remains one of the most heartbreaking stretches in xianxia dramas.

The final arc between Bai Qian and Ye Hua is a mix of romance, frustration, and redemption. Their chemistry is undeniable, but the repeated misunderstandings and Ye Hua’s often forceful behavior can be difficult to overlook. Still, the emotional payoff, especially Ye Hua’s redemption arc, is powerful and memorable.

Acting & Performances

Mark Chao delivers a phenomenal performance as Ye Hua. He conveys emotion through his eyes with remarkable depth. His pain, longing, authority, and vulnerability feel authentic. Whether as a restrained Crown Prince or a desperate lover, he commands the screen. Some of the most powerful scenes in the entire drama belong to him.

Yang Mi shines in her triple portrayal of Si Yin, Su Su, and Bai Qian. Each version feels distinct. Her Su Su is fragile and tragic, while Bai Qian is composed and dignified, though sometimes emotionally obtuse. Yang Mi captures heartbreak beautifully, especially in the palace arc.

The child actor who played Ah Li was absolutely adorable and added warmth to the story. The supporting cast also deserves praise.

Maggie Huang as Su Jin made viewers truly despise her, which speaks to how well she embodied the manipulative antagonist.

Vin Zhang as Li Jing portrayed a flawed but layered character whose long, obsessive love felt tragic rather than purely villainous.

The side couple Feng Jiu and Dong Hua became so popular that they later received their own drama, Eternal Love of Dream.

Even minor characters, from Bai Qian’s fox family to the heavenly gossip trio, added charm and personality to the world.

Strengths

Deep emotional storytelling across multiple lifetimes
Strong performances, especially from Mark Chao
Beautiful costumes and cinematography
Memorable soundtrack
High emotional impact scenes that remain unforgettable
Complex relationships beyond the main couple
The chemistry between the leads is intense and believable. Some romantic scenes were passionate and mature, which is refreshing in the genre.


Weaknesses

Excessive miscommunication and secrecy that prolongs conflict
Ye Hua’s questionable choices in the Celestial Palace
Some CGI that reflects its 2017 production limitations
Certain side plots feel stretched or underdeveloped
Lack of a truly strong, overarching villain
Dragging pacing in some later episodes

At times, it feels like nearly all suffering could have been avoided with basic communication. While that is a common trope in melodramas, it can become frustrating over 58 episodes.

Overall Impression

Despite its flaws, this drama earns its status as a xianxia classic. It is dramatic, emotional, sometimes frustrating, but undeniably impactful. The love story is tragic yet devoted, flawed yet powerful. The redemption arc of Ye Hua, the heartbreak of Su Su, and the enduring bond between Bai Qian and Ye Hua leave a lasting impression.

It may not be perfect in writing or pacing, but it stands in a league of its own because of its emotional depth, performances, and unforgettable moments.

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Sometimes it's just perfect.

Can't believe no one has left a review for something this good. Maybe because it's #4 of 20 versions (and counting?). How many of the same storyline can you watch? Maybe people could at least drop hints of the ones they loved.

YouTube commenters had nothing but good things to say. Several said it's a best, if not the best, version and one they'll rewatch. A lot. A favorite SuiSui. I agree. This is a favorite storyline and this version is just excellent. "Totes adorable". The performances were ALL a treat.

Well... I think I've managed to stay just short of gushing and screeing like a fan girl. If not, I don't care.

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That Special K-drama Feel

Ahhh this was such a lovely watch, reminiscent of the old k-drama style- comedy, romance, mystery, all blended in together with a cohesive, beautiful cast. This is what got me watching k-dramas in the first place-- character-centric, full of heart, warm, hopeful, and the sweetness of found family. The mystery plot itself may not win any awards but the characters will win your heart. The drama obviously doesn't take itself very seriously, so just be there for a fun, heartwarming ride.

We've seen Jin Ki Joo in similar roles before, but I still love the way she brings her character to life-- the innocence, drive, and passion for life, work, justice, and her students. Seo Kang Joon is, as always, handsome and badass enough to distract you from all the little plot holes along the way.

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Underwhelming: worst C-Drama I've watched as of yet!

This is one of the worst C-Drama I've watched. Anyone giving a 10 is biased...

1- The story is simply bad and boring.
I usually love investigation/mystery stories, but in this one, people get murdered one after another nonstop, all for the stupidest reasons, while the female detective is allowed to do whatever she wants with zero consequences. The entire plot feels like a messy quilt stitched together from random, unrelated patches of story — nothing connects properly. Also, there’s supposed to be a slow-burn romance, but the character arcs are almost non-existent.

2-Both lead actors’ performances are underwhelming. I’m especially disappointed in Wang Xingyue, but with such a crappy script, even a great actor couldn’t work miracles.
3- The background music is ok, but it's not well calibrated: it's so loud it buries the actor's voices.
4- Most make up are not well done: actors look like they have a white powdered face...
5- Some scenes are lit in a bad way: colors are off, or it's overlit (overexposure)
6- Costumes are average

Overall, this was a huge letdown. Skip it unless you’re dying for background noise while folding laundry.

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MASTERPIECE. 10/10 the best show i ever seen.

story
the story is really well based, at first it’s a little bit confusing (i haven’t read the novel) but after 4 episodes it makes sense and it starts to being more interesting.
+ i love the fact that every character is well done, everyone has their own story and personality, they’re written soooo well
cast/acting
the acting is soo good, xiaozhan and wangyibo never disappoints me
music
what can i say? one of the best ost ever and its crazy because it’s sang by xiaozhan and wangyibo, they can do everything.
overall
i don’t know what to say honestly just watch it. u will never regret it. i started with thinking that 50 episodes were too many but now i feel so empty like they weren’t enough.
i just can say that the love in that show is the stronger than every other bl series even though it’s not shown, the acting is soooo good, xiaozhan and wangyibo are soo good but literally all of the cast is just amazing.
im going to read the novel as well i can’t wait🙏
im not gonna lie i’ve watched almost a hundred bls and shows but this is the best thing i ever saw.
thankyou the untamed.💙❤️

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First impression: an engaging premiere that holds attention

It's safe to say that Only Friends: Dream On started with confidence. Set within a theater program, the story uses the preparation of a graduation play, now featuring a bold “Romeo and Romeo,” as a backdrop to explore rivalries, relapses, and new temptations.

The strongest element of the premiere is, without a doubt, the cast’s chemistry. The camera knows exactly where to linger, and the looks between characters speak just as loudly as the dialogue. The different dynamics, such as ex-lovers, casual hookups, and quiet crushes, create an interesting range of possibilities. There is energy, desire, and the kind of emotional chaos that has become a trademark of the franchise. At the same time, the script clearly leans on the appeal of already established pairings, which slightly reduces the surprise factor regarding who might be endgame.

The series also feels more confident and more provocative than before, fully embracing its messy tone without apology. Some scenes are clearly designed for immediate impact, and they succeed in that regard. Still, not everything is flawless. Certain choices, such as the interview segments and specific musical transitions, feel slightly out of sync. They do not ruin the experience, but they do leave the impression that the production could have been more polished.

Another small point that stands out in this early stage is the portrayal of Dean. Earth brings a naturally understated presence to the role, which fits the character’s emotional reserve, but at times the performance feels slightly constrained. That impression may come from the contrast between the actor’s more mature presence and the university setting, which sometimes makes the character feel slightly out of sync with the environment around him.

Overall, it is an engaging premiere that holds attention through intensity and strong performances, even without reinventing the genre. It is not revolutionary, but it delivers exactly what it promises: a university drama filled with romance, artistic ambition, and emotions running high. For viewers who enjoy stories driven by chemistry and impulsive decisions, it is an easy recommendation, just do not expect something subtle or particularly innovative.

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