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An unknown person becoming one's everything
Didn't have any high hopes when I started this but damn this series took me on the best emotional roller-coaster ride and showed me a magnificent firework show of how love can be beautiful even if it's forbidden and doesn't fit into the accepted societal terms.The story without any spoilers — The ML has had an abusive childhood and is struggling to raise himself and his sister. One day out of kindness he helps an 'unknown' boy and later adopts him as his brother. He is a smart person, who takes calculated risks at each step of his life because he doesn't want to drag down those who depend on him. When the adopted brother expresses his feelings for him, he reluctantly holds himself from letting himself venture into this 'unknown' relationship road.
The show shows the characters' journey from the struggle between not being able to control who they fall in love with, questioning what's wrong with oneself for falling in 'forbidden love', not being able to suppress it, coming to terms with it and acknowledging it, gathering up the courage to express it to the loved one, acting okay after getting rejected, trying to get over that person and miserably failing it, and settling to always love that person even if it was un-requited was incredible.
They beautifully portrayed that love isn't a feeling that can be erased nor should one be embarrassed of it. You can't force whom you love nor can you force someone to be with you.
Everything about this series was brilliant — the story, casting, acting, narration, dialogues, and ost. And a special mention to the cinematography of this series because it was top-notch. The use of lighting, mirrors, and frames to set up the background for each scene and thereby subtly conveying the atmosphere was fabulous.
I loved how they focused only on the main lead and that allowed them to show layers of their emotions and their personal battles which allowed them to face the situations maturely.
Honestly, as a BL fan, I rarely come across dramas that deal with complicated relationships and complex emotions. This drama clearly showed how the characters confront their feelings of 'dangerous brotherhood love'. Highly recommend everyone to watch it.
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One of the best c dramas I've watched.
I'm not a fan of romantic dramas but a huge lover of fantasy genre. So I've been very picky when watching c dramas and watched this after reading a lot of reviews that recommended it. Fair to say I was not let down by the hype this how had. From the cast, to the dialogues, cinematography and the plot it'd keep you gripped onto your couch or bed ;) It has a very unique plot and an engaging story line with no lags. I binged all 40 episodes over the weekend and couldn't resist myself from falling in love with Cheng Yi. His screen presence was majestic, and he flawlessly transitions from a goofy nomad to a serious swordsman. Couldn't get over how cute Jospeh Zang was and his bickering scenes definitely make you rewatch this drama. I really loved how they didn't villainize Xiao Shun Yao, instead showed the story from his pov too.Was this review helpful to you?
A must watch for fans who love pain and angst
Yes, if you love pain and angst-filled Wuxia or Xianxia drama tropes, and cry your eyes out till they become red, you must watch this drama. It's a gut-wrenching, yet, heart-warming drama that deals with the themes of love, friendship, kinship, filial piety, morality, duties, and responsibilities.Even with such complex themes the drama is narrated in a non-complicated and intriguing way. The story starts slow, with the first few episodes being light-hearted. Maybe the writers wanted the viewers to brace themselves for the trauma that the latter episodes would inflict. But hang through the first few episodes because it only keeps getting better.
The writers of this drama did great justice to all the characters. Usually, in these kinds of dramas, side characters simply fade into the background once their job's done. But in this, the sub-characters had their own complex characteristics and arcs, allowing them to grow in pace with the drama.
Also, kudos to the casting team because each and every actor perfectly fit into their roles. From the main lead to the minor characters which did a cameo, everyone nailed their performances. The costumes and the setting of this drama are exceptional too. All the different clans in this drama were given costumes, hairstyles, and makeup that brought out the essence of their clans and personalities.
Both the main couple and the second couple are a great delight to watch and their storylines will make you celebrate friendship and yearn for true love. This drama had some unexpected friendship stories that truly leave you in awe.
CGI was decent, but there's definitely room for improvement. And as for the music? Could've been better too.
And don't worry if you haven't seen the prequel, "Ancient Love Poetry." This drama fills you in on everything you need to know, so you won't miss out on any of the excitement.
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Love transcends time and death
Dropped this drama after 2 episodes, and then picked it up after months cuz I wanted to know the prequel story to the last immortal drama. I'm so glad that I gave this drama a second chance. This drama had a cast of complex characters with their own sub plotline, but it was intricately woven with the main story line without any lags.I was so in love with the acting of the FL and ML, their genuine reactions and portrayal of various emotions. The FL has a contagious smile and carries a femininely bold aura throughout the story. A fan of how Xu Kai acts through his eyes, I understand why he has a huge fandom (I'm a part of that now). Tianqi deserves to start acting as a ML in upcoming dramas, hope he gets that.
Everyone in this drama had done justice to their roles. And I like the villain origin stories which were relatable unlike most trauma induced villains.
This is one of the best xianxia drama with stunning cinematography, visuals. and ost. Would highly recommend watching it.
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One of the best K drama of all time
This drama is a gem of the k-industry. The cast, acting, cinematography, dialogues, story line and music were top notch.The reason why this drama is celebrated by many is due to the uniqueness of each characters. The drama shows how much past trauma can hurt someone. Though the ML is a goblin he's suffering to find his bride and from his past guilt, though the FL is cheerful she has had an abusive past, and on the contrary the grim reaper suffers from not being able to recall his past. This goes to show that no matter what you've to bear the consequences of your past actions.
What makes this drama extra special is its perfect blend of romance, grief, comedy and revenge. It's my comfort show that I've binged several times and would highly recommend to others too. Be prepared with a tissue pack cuz you're in for an emotional rollercoaster ride :)
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