it is such a beautiful show and Hua Zhi is one of the best female characters I have ever seen. the story of a group of women abandoned in a conservative and misogynistic society but they trample it all and rise.
Hua Zhi was one of the least-liked members of the family but she proved reliable and led everyone to success. all the women in the family unlearning all the internalized misogyny and classism. zhi also remained kind to every person she met throughout the series. even certain male characters who are not 'heroes' are empowered. this a feminist show if u ask me.
the romance was nice between all the couples even though it was not a focal point of the show. some plotlines and couples were rushed at the last few episodes.
the only complaint i would have is that the main lead was a bit too expressionless. the show would have been way better and the romance could have hit harder if he was expressive at certain parts.
I'm very happy that in the end the women continued what they were doing before and didn't go back to their old ways. it's also quite sweet and smart how 'hua' means flower and its connection with the title
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This review may contain spoilers
What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger
On a surface level, "Blossoms in Adversity" tells the story of a young, strong-willed and adventurous woman called Hua Zhi, whose family falls into peril when her grandfather, the infamous scholar and Imperial Censor Hua Yi Zheng, draws His Imperial Majesty's ire on himself during court session, and her blossoming romance with the Emperor's nephew and Commander of the Security Bureau, Gu Yan Xi. On a deeper level, however, this story is more than just a love story. It's about a family that grows together through adversity, including important lessons about kindness, resilience and karma.The intriguing premise of an official's family falling from grace is what drew me into watching this drama in the first place. I'm always in for some well-executed "riches to rags and back to riches" story and this one does not disappoint, though there are some elements I wish would have been better developed.
The drama starts out strong with the main plot immediately being pushed forward right at the end of the first episode. The property is confiscated by the Emperor's Security Bureau, the men gathered and sent into prison, and then the women and children younger than ten are suddenly all on their own, forced to retreat from the captial with what little belongings they managed to gather in the little time that was so gracously given to them. Thanks to Old Madame Hua's connections (no spoilers here), they find a charming, though rather desolate and run down little farmstead not far from the capital to settle down - and that's when the real struggle starts for these pampered noble women who have never worked a day in their lives. Heads and flared tempers butt quite a lot in these early episodes as the women learn to come to terms with their new living conditions and the social stigma of being members of a "sinnful" family.
Hua Zhi is the only one who doesn't need much time to adapt and immediately takes the reigns to make the best out of their seemingly hopeless situation - be it by helping the few remaining loyal maids to clean up the property, hunting down a scammer, or saving the family from perishing in their sleep due to fume poisoning. Her efforts don't exactly get rewarded with much gratitude in the beginning, but that soon changes when she starts raking in money with her business ideas, leading them to eventually return to the capital.
The pace starts to flare out and drag a bit towards the second half, picks up again when one major villain makes its final nerve-wracking move, falls once again afterwards and then rises into an exciting, if not quite predictable conclusion. I definitely think they could have added in some more obstacles into the Hua family's rise to prosperity to make it a bit more realistic, but I understand that there is only so much one can do with a 40 Episodes per Drama-limit.
Watching the Hua women go from spoiled, fearful noble women to hard-working, strong individuals no longer dependent on men is probably one of the best aspects of this drama. Each and everyone of the them (with the execption of Hua Zhi - more to that later), grows so much throughout the course of the story, that you'll hardly recognize them again in the end. It's truly inspiring and touching to see them growing into a family that sticks together and supports each other throughout all the adversities they are facing. And all of this in a time period in which women are told from birth that they are nothing without the "stronger" sex. The amount of wealth the Hua family accumulates over such a short period of time definitely has to be taken with a grain of salt, though.
The men are barely present in the drama, so it's not surprising we don't see all that much growth on their part (though one could certainly argue that two to three years spent in exile mining and transporting heavy rocks at freezing temperatures should have taught them a thing or two). Same goes to Hua Zhi. The lack of growth on her part, however, is not attributed to her "Mary Sue" status. In fact, she does have quite a few flaws, her most prominent one probably being her self-righteousness and inability to remain silent in the face of injustice, even to her own detriment. The problem here is that the writers barely gave her room to overcome her character flaws (probably to avoid her becoming "too perfect"). Though it's not really a deal breaker, I would have loved to see some growth on her part, even if it meant adding in more flaws at the start of her journey.
Zhang Jing Yi, however, does a solid job portraying the young, kind-hearted, smart, business-savy and confident head of the Hua family.
The male lead, Gu Yan Xi, faces similiar issues. The biggest let-down on his part though is probably the lack of depth in Hu Yi Tian's acting when it comes to Gu Yan Xi's complicated relationship to his Emperor Uncle. Hai Yi Tian does such a wonderful job portraying a paranoid Emperor, who though cruel in nature still very much trusts and loves his nephew. Hu Yi Tian does not quite live up to that expectionally complex character portayal in his character's responses in certain situations, which makes the Emperor's love for him seem more oppressive and one-sided than it actually is.
Hu Yi Tian's fight scenes, however, are absolutely phenomenal, though as always, you'll have to take the realism of some of those with a grain of salt.
The main characters' relationship was quite decent. It was overall very mature and solid and not making use of too much well-established cdrama tropes such as misunderstandings due to lack of communication that drag on for episodes. Though one could argue that Hua Zhi lets Gu Yan Xi off too easily for lying to her and keeping his true identity hidden for the entire first half of the drama. Their love and trust in each other has to be commended, and I certainly loved seeing them respecting each other's jobs and freedom.
Another noteworthy character portayal is Lu Yu Xiao's Shao Yao, Gu Yan Xi's little sister, who has been isolated in her courtyard for years and thus lacks the social and communication skills "normal" people possess. Portraying such a character convincingly in such an endearing way certainly isn't easy, but Lu Yu Xiao more than nailed it.
The body count has been kept rather low compared to other dramas of the same genre, though there are some character demises that are really sad, if not a bit unnecessary (especially a certain one towards the end).
The OST was, as always, very solid. The mix of modern electro tunes and classic instruments added a nice layer to some scenes, though the background music was rather loud and thus more often than not, drowned out the on-going conversation a bit.
In conclusion this drama is best enjoyed for what it is: Not a master work by any means, but rather a soild and inspiring story that will entertain you for many, many hours.
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Blooming romance and character growth!
I love this story so much! The outline of the plot is a basic one. The female lead's (Hua Zhi) family (The Hua Family) falls from grace- basically, the emperor doesn't favor their family and exiled the men to a Northern Border and the women and youth of the family are left in the capital. They no longer have their property because it is confiscated by the emperor. So they must make a living to survive.Hua Zhi is a curious learner, and a brilliant business (young) woman. Hua Zhi is played by Zhang Jingyi, who does an excellent job of emulating the natural brilliance of a young woman pursuing business endeavors to support her family single-handedly. The male lead Gu Yanxi is played by Hu Yitian who did a decent job. I didn't like him a lot because there wasn't depth to his character. I can't really tell how much Gu Yanxi loves Hua Zhi. I don't really see the conflicted character go between being a loyal emperor subject to a man in love. He doesn't offer a more complex insight on his character. It seems as if he read the novel and gave us a surface presentation on the actor. The other casting who played the supporting roles did a phenomenal job at offering their character some dimension.
The production of this drama is also pretty good. There isn't much to nitpick. The only one is lighting. You'll notice it if you're a person with sensitive eyes. But other than that, this drama is smooth, enjoyable, and fun.
I feel like there are some playful parts and sweet moments that will hold dear to you.
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This review may contain spoilers
love a good jing yi drama!
YAY i finished. this was a cutesy drama- i loved the character development in all the aunts and characters at the end. loved the independent and smart FL, my FAVV!! she can hold up her own fort and family and i LOVE her for that. hyt also very hot. but emperor was so annoying… like using him. BUT I LOVE A GOOD SHE-DOESNT-KNOW-WHO-I-AM DRAMA BRUH. i wish they extended that part longer. i love the chase!!! chemistry was ok- i felt it a LOT on hyts side but not huazhis. idk. it was cute thooooo i liked them. esp their flirting stage. and when he was the martial arts teacher AW. overall pretty good drama to not binge but watch every so often. romance could be better but yea. plot was follow-able.Was this review helpful to you?
Best couple and empowered female lead
One of the best dramas to come out of China. The way it tackles multiple issues and topics while also balancing the comeback story is superb. The cast of Zhang Jing Yi , Hu Yi Tian , Lu Yu Xiao is brilliant and was able to portray their characters beautifully.If you enjoy a love story that has a subtle growth and the angst is to the minimum then this drama is for you.
If you enjoy an empowering female lead who fights for herself this drama is for you.
If you want a story about power and fight for the crown and how greed corrupts a person, this is for you.
RECOMMENDED!!!
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Woman independence & Communication in a relationship
There are 2 main theme in this drama: surviving from adversity and romanceExcellent writing regarding the romance between the two leads. No BS between the both of them. Communication 10/10. Level of Maturity of the two leads 10/10. A romance story which will not kill your brain cells. (YAYYYYY)
I love how many character eventually grew stronger & mature over time. The plot was engaging and I liked how the Hua Family member became more independent and eventually had a ability to survive. Other than surviving, they also grew confidence and accepted their life.
Generally great acting. (Some ppl r saying the main leads acting could be better, but I think its fine. On the other hand, I find the actress who acted Shao Yao acting kindda off. I have seen her in My Journey to You and she was great there. Maybe she wasn't in her best condition here). The actor who acted as the emperor did a good job. Boiled my blood multiple times :)
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It's a drama with good acting, good story and good production. For those who likes this genre, go for it. The straight that these woman have is something outstrading.
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this is wht i think after watching the drama
ok so the drama overall is goodthe best thing is that there is no female character who is envious of the FL and no stupid kinda drama
and the cutest thing is the side character couples in the drama
FL and ML character writing and development is pretty good
the reason i rated the story 8.5 is cuz of its abrupt ending
also due to the lack of a main villain, the story feels kinda different
but i love the development of all the members of her family
overall this is a nice light-hearted drama to watch
even if it isn't that involving it will surely keep engaging
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Touching Story With Sweet Romance
Friends, this is easily the most bingeable watch this year. I could not stop pressing play and impatiently waited for episodes once I caught up with the live release schedule. Not only was the story interesting, it was incredibly touching the way this family came together to solve their issues. The story revolves around the ladies of this family - both the family members and their servants. I really enjoyed the intricacies of these various relationships. Their shifting dynamics created genuine character growth for many of the women. There are lots of #ladiessupportingladies as well as #ladiesLEARNINGtosupportladies in this drama, which felt really refreshing.The main couple had a sweet and slow romance built over the course of the story. A bit more passion from them would have been nice, but I understand these dramas typically are on the tamer side. They did have some great hugs! The main leads did a good job portraying the characters and had decent chemstry together. I'm not sure their performance was as memorable as the overall story, but I will probably remember them fondly. I wonder how I would have felt about their romance with different actors in the roles. Overall, a great and touching story paired with a sweet and steady romance made this one of my favorites this year (so far).
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Zhang jingyi is suitable for this huazhi character
I didn't thought I will love this drama so much. Really I am obsessed with it. There is so many scenes have which funny and also sad. Both of mixed it incredible. Huazhi the character I love the most. Zhang jingyi my princess you are doing great. No doubt you are a great actress. I think it will be interesting more.Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Inspirational and Thrilling Series!
@20 episodes in...I am amazed by this series. Every cast member is giving the performance of their lives. We have loved every section of this story and there are many! The cast is enormous...so large you may lose track of faces...so pay close attention.
It is a multi-faceted tale...but primarily it is about the Hua family.
They have been a powerful and prestigious family for many generations. Both grandparents are renown and revered for their character and kindness. Both have led exemplary and very public lives. The family is huge and not only well-known but also well-loved.
That is ...until they lose everything!!
The men are exiled and the women and small children must survive alone. Shunned by the ppl who once sought their favor, this family must learn to endure by themselves with very little help.
It will not be easy to do ...but they will learn.
What I Loved:
The Female Lead: Zhang Jing Yi
Zhang Jing Yi is becoming a major star. Here she plays the role of Hua Zhin who was the grandfathers most beloved granddaughter. She has her grandfathers keen brain so she naturally become his shadow and learned to soak up everything she could. But her independent and dauntless spirit came from her grandmother, who was equally bold and decisive while growing up. Recognizing her granddaughter's abilities ....the grandmother pushes her to take over her role. This group of women would not have adjusted nearly so well if they had not had her. Her character is strong and adventurous and you will love her.
The Male Lead: Hu Yi Tian
Hu Yi Tian is also excellent here. He plays a complex role as Gu Yan Xi who is nephew to the emperor and his incognito role as the head of the security dept. He is watched/brooded over by his uncle, whether because he fears he may become a threat or simply because he likes to control ppl..it is too opaque to see yet......but GYT straddles the line between obedience to his uncle and maintaining his own independence. Not easy to do.. so we will see how that goes. But I am loving his character and the sincerity with which he cares for her is lovely.
Inspirational Watch:
These women will try many things, some will succeed, others not so much....but they will learn from both. Seeing these different women (some more spoiled than others) adapt to these life changes and elect to work and pull together is absolutely stunning. Many scenes are so sweet..that you catch your breath and it brings tears to your eyes. It has been a sincere joy watching this unusual series.
Quick Resolutions to Problems:
I owe this one to a friend rajv...she noticed before I did how lovely that it was that when a problem came up, there was often a discussion and a quick resolution, even between the two leads.
Rarely are misunderstandings allowed to linger...instead it is quickly dealt with. This is a much better plot device than letting it simmer for 5 or 10 episodes causing a great angst in the viewer. So a very refreshing change and we loved that. So thanks rajv!
Trope Less Love Relationship:
Both leads are great together..it has been thrilling to watch them fall in love . All the feels are there...and you will love this romantic part of the story. It is central to the main story, not pushed to one side and it is a very satisfying love affair.
Finally this is a long one @40...but one I think you will find riveting enough to hang with it. I confess I am watching it in a watch party atmosphere..but we like it so well that block off times where we can watch 3 or 4 at a time..is that nuts or what? Lol, but even then we can barely stop. So we are in LOVE with this drama..and I think you will be too.
Happy Watching!
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Love's Sneaky Hide-and-Seek
Blossoms in Adversity has all the right ingredients for an epic watch:1- Protective yet swoon-worthy male lead
2- A competent and occasionally vulnerable female lead on a quest to reclaim her lost footing and restore her family's tarnished reputation
3- The tantalizing angst of forbidden love due to their disparate social statuses.
But here's the twist – it falls a smidge short. Maybe it's because I just finished watching a mind-blowing drama, or perhaps I should have watched this one first. Something is missing, and I'm not sure what it's but maybe it's the romance. Don't get me wrong, the leads exchange grateful glances as he swoops in to save her (again), but where's the sizzle, the heart-fluttering moments that make you weak in the knees? It's like watching a slow dance with no music. However, amidst the lack of romance, I find myself strangely captivated by the triumphs and tribulations of the Hua family, I couldn't help but feel a surge of empowerment. It's a resounding "Go, girl!" moment that resonates deeply. Their journey becomes a rallying cry for female power, reminding us of the incredible heights that can be reached when women come together and embrace their inner strength.
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