The Rebel Princess

上阳赋 ‧ Drama ‧ 2021
Completed
Reverie
1 people found this review helpful
Feb 12, 2025
68 of 68 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.5
Story 5.0
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 1.0

its an okay drama that feels like the best drama in the first 20-30ep

here is how I feel after giving this drama another chance

I just finished watching this drama, and wow I have a lot of emotions. But I’ll try my best to stay unbiased.

TLDR (If you're lazy, skip to the last paragraph!)

At first, this drama feels like a masterpiece, but as it drags on, it starts to lose its charm. Visually, it’s stunning great costumes, a gorgeous cast, and solid acting, especially from our “princess” Zhang Zi Yi. Now, I get why people criticize her playing a 16-year-old when she’s 44. Yes, she *does* look older than her “parents” and “aunts” (lol), but honestly? She was one of the best things about this drama, along with the male lead and her mother. If not for them, I might’ve dropped it halfway.

The Good Stuff ✨

The first few episodes *hooked* me. I binged 16 episodes in one sitting! It’s exciting, full of curiosity, and surprisingly unpredictable at times. As someone who’s watched tons of dramas, I thought I could guess every twist, but this script is weirdly *good* in some places and *horribly cliché* in others. It starts strong but gets predictable toward the end.

Oh, and the OST? Absolute nostalgia fuel. Loved it.

Now, about the title**it doesn’t fit at all.** They call her "rebellious," but she’s honestly just a lighthearted sweetheart who loves her family more than anything. She’s not power-hungry like the other palace women, but she’s also not some grand rebel she just wants peace and happiness.

The Romance? Meh it's fine ig.

Even though I like the concept of the couple's and they had their sweet moments,Some people call it “slow-burn.” Nope. It starts fast and then stays *stuck* at the same stage for the entire show. It’s satisfying and cute at first but kind of frustrating later on. And while the drama advertises itself as romantic, romance only makes up *40%* of the story 25% from the main leads and 15% from side characters (yep, even emperors and second leads get almost the same romance screentime).

The Not-So-Good Stuff 🚨

At its core, this is a story of **betrayal, lust, and power struggles** disguised in beautiful visuals. The drama is packed with backstabbing, selfish ambitions, and characters who switch between being *ruthlessly power-hungry* and *overcome with regret*. And let’s not forget the endless deaths so many characters die that by the end, you stop caring. Also, there’s *zero* character development, which makes things *really* frustrating.

Final Verdict 🎭

Overall, I’d give it a **8.5/10**—mainly for the acting, costumes, and a strong start. But would I recommend it? *Not really.* If you’re a student, a busy person, or someone who rarely gets time to watch dramas, **skip it**there are way better ones out there. If you’re new to palace dramas and have *lots* of free time, maybe give it a shot. But for me? I kinda feel like I wasted my time.

And just to be clear I gave it a 8.5 *only* because of how much an ending means to me. No matter how amazing a drama starts, if the ending isn’t fulfilling, it’s an *immediate* no from me. And this ending? Let’s just say it left me staring at the screen wondering why I even invested all those hours. 😭

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Completed
Mckukky_cs
2 people found this review helpful
Dec 25, 2023
68 of 68 episodes seen
Completed 1
Overall 5.0
Story 6.0
Acting/Cast 1.0
Music 5.5
Rewatch Value 1.0

Princes and Princesses are too old for these roles

It's obvious the roles for the young royals should have gone to younger actors.

Princess Wu has not even had her coming of age ceremony which means she's around 14 years old. The actress is a 40 year old acting like a little girl, even the mannerisms are weird and exaggerated.

Thes rest if actors and actresses are also supposed to be at most 25 years old but they all look older.

As for the story, it's too long and drawn out. A lot of extended story telling that is completely unnecessary.

Overall the production quality is top notch.
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Completed
Unisofiakitchen
1 people found this review helpful
Jul 5, 2025
68 of 68 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 9.5
Acting/Cast 9.5
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10

Best drama

I know this drama for 3 years ago, but still not interested, eventhough the FL is zhang zi yi. And a week ago after i read so many comments informed that this drama is good, i give it a try, and turns out i love the drama so much, zhang zi yi and zhao yi wi are the best, love their chemistry. Hope that they can collaborate again in the future. Never get bored of the story and ll the actors superb.
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Completed
Sunshine17130522
1 people found this review helpful
Oct 3, 2021
68 of 68 episodes seen
Completed 5
Overall 10
Story 9.5
Acting/Cast 10
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 10
This review may contain spoilers

There is so much I want to say about this series but only one word really sums it up – masterpiece! It has been a while since I’ve been on edge, waiting, anticipating but thoroughly enjoying each episode! I end up binge-watching this within a short time because I couldn’t wait to see what happen next!

What I like about this series:

The chemistry between the leads. I know FL is a big star and she has done a lot of movies rather than series so I wasn’t expecting much. But I was taken by surprise. Being an experienced actor, she really did a great job here! Half the time besides admiring each and every different outfit she had on, I kept watching her expression and her gestures. I also enjoy ML performance. I forget what a great actor he is. He plays the great warlord, he is able to conquer all his enemies on the battleground as well as the emperor court. I can’t stop thinking about his love for FL. He was a man with principle, integrity, and love for his wife and his brotherhood. Often his choice was for the good of the country, his wife, or his army. Quite honestly, I was expecting a bit of a rough time when they got married. ML was not her first choice but as a chess piece, she was thrown into an arranged marriage. I love how the plot opens with them having an open heart to heart conversation, kicking off their relationship to a good start. I gotta admit I stayed because I knew from that point on, this was going to get good! I’m glad I stay for the whole ride! It was very impressive. There was so much that happened! It made you questioned who can you trust? Is blood thicker than water? Can you really hold your integrity as a poor humble being or will you fall for the beautiful temptation of what the emperor court offers? I’m actually glad we got seasonal actors because I don’t think a new face can pull off such beautiful acting, chemistry, and feelings!!

The plot and storyline. I was on edge and couldn’t wait for the next devious plot. If you read my previous reviews you know I don’t like fighting for the throne and emperor politics but this series got me thinking so hard I could barely sleep. All I can think about is, what are they planning next!

Cinemograph - the colors, the details, the outfits, everything was so appealing I didn’t know where to look.

The bad:

Just small little things that I chuckled at. There were a lot of scenes where it was slowed down to emphasize and heighten the emotion that was going through your head. One, in particular, got me chuckling, the scene where FL ran to the gate door after seeing that it was ML on the other end.

The other scene was when ML found out about her miscarriage, the doctor told him that she won’t be able to give conceive anymore and if she did, she can die from it. He grabs onto his heart from the attack. It was a bit over the top for me. His character was always this calm demeanor, no how bad the situation is. He took his time listening to the complaint, took his time understanding the issue, thought through the situation before taking action. I kept thinking about the time he stood outside waiting for her to respond.

What I often thought about:

The chemistry between the two. There is this mutual understanding, this love they have for each other. ML will do anything for her, even risking his life with his army to save her. They even had a fight for the first time about money, why can’t every couple's fight be this cute! I want and demand a Xiao Qi now!!!

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Completed
roro4
1 people found this review helpful
Mar 7, 2021
68 of 68 episodes seen
Completed 1
Overall 8.5
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 7.0
This review may contain spoilers

Amazing production and acting :)!!!!

What can I say!!! This is the best drama so far in Chinese dramaland :)!!!! I really love the OTP, Awu, and XiaoXi are a powerful couple who fought for peace and freedom for the people. Awu's not a very complex character, but her soul and heart are so pure :). She is all about love and forgiveness. I don't think I have watched any female lead as kind as her?? Her kindness is also a weakness because it seems like so many bad people are betraying her, but in the end, she came out as a winner as her heart is always in the right place. XiaoXi is a warrior that is all for peace and equal-ness. He marries Awu and they built their life on love, kindness, and trust. Their relationship was so nice to see because they are just loving and caring towards each other. They are far from being perfect, but they still trust each other. The plot was great in the way that it makes one think about the hardships within the court and outside of it. One important aspect Awu mentioned is that "if the capital is at peace, then the world----people. citizens will also live a peaceful life..." In the end, Awu and XiaoXi turn the situation around; and bring peace to the world :). The osts amazing too!!!!

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Completed
Fabie
1 people found this review helpful
Dec 29, 2025
68 of 68 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10

WOW

First of all—finishing The Rebel Princess at 6:30 a.m. is a badge of honor. That’s not sleep deprivation, that’s devotion 😵‍💫👏🏿And YESSSS—10/10 across the board is absolutely deserved.
Let’s address the audacity of those comments real quick:
“The male lead isn’t handsome”
EXCUSE ME?! 😭
That man is grown-man fine. Not flashy-idol-pretty, but commanding, masculine, calm, battle-hardened, and emotionally intelligent. His mannerisms, restraint, maturity, and presence??? That’s the kind of attractiveness that ages like fine wine. You don’t blink—you stare 😍🔥And the female lead?
WOW doesn’t even cover it. She carried that role with grace, intelligence, emotional depth, and power. Watching her grow, endure, and strategize was chef’s kiss 👌🏿👏🏿She wasn’t just reacting to the story—she was shaping it.
Also, can we talk about how rare it is to have: a slow-burn romance that actually respects the audience. Political intrigue that’s layered but not messy. A relationship built on mutual respect, trust, and loyalty instead of constant misunderstandings??
68 episodes is a marathon, but The Rebel Princess is one of those dramas where you finish and just sit there like:
🫨🤯 “Yeah… that was worth every sleepless hour.”

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Completed
John Hart
1 people found this review helpful
Mar 18, 2022
68 of 68 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 9.0
Story 9.5
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 10

Actors ages do not ruin this otherwise MUST SEE series

Hiya,

My first C-Drama ever was RUYI'S ROYAL LOVE IN THE PALACE. I knew watching it that it was a masterpiece, because only a masterpiece would keep my attention that long on such a depressing series of events.

The problem became what in the world to watch afterwards? Since I was new to this world I tried MISSING PERSONS (Two Ruyi Co-stars featured) and that was fun but nowhere near as slick. I also watched a ton of Chinese films during Ruyi and some after. That's when I caught some Zhang Ziyi and felt, yeah, let's give REBEL PRINCESS a try.

Firstly, the jerks that call these 'costume dramas' need to be thrown into the Cold Palace and forced to watch Wonder Woman 1984. It's like calling Westerns 'saddle dramas'. Give me a break. This genre is Epic Imperial Romance, okay?

Secondly the title simply doesn't work. Or translate. I have a sublime title to offer but it would spoil to explain why I chose this.
Call it FOR THE LOVE OF AWU and you'll see why about halfway thru.

Unfortunately the series isn't as good as RUYI. That doesn't mean it isn't watchable and entertaining. And, in fact, for reasons I cannot divulge, it has a higher 'rewatch me' factor than RUYI. So it's better in a sense as well.

My personal big problem with this series is the initial ages of the actors. Where Zhou Xun completely tricked me into thinking a woman in her 40s is really a teenager, that didn't happen here. Many major players tried their best but simply looked old.

Deeper into the story we're introduced to a young woman that (we're told) is so like Zhang when she was young. SPOILER: she looks NOTHING like her. I was so confused I went to an eye doctor. (JK. NK.) And in THIS character SOMEONE should have realized lied a solution.

Rewind. You look for a young actress that looks a lot like a young Zhang. Then you shoot the first episodes using her. Then, and get this, when you need to introduce to the young woman who allegedly looks like Awu? Use the same actress, perhaps with a little rubber on her face to make her look a little different. Two problems solved.

The other unfortunate casting issue is Zhang Zi Yi herself. After having experienced the WOW that is Zhou Xun in RUYI, Zhang seemed a little... flat. It was like she was playing not only a noble Princess but a Goddess, who -- somehow -- is detached from reality. Often when Zhang is hearing something she doesn't like -- she starts staring off into an emotionless abyss. She looks catatonic even. This emotive distancing pushes the characters annoying her back a bit, but so too have we the viewers lost critical access into her thoughts and feelings. It took me halfway thru the series to get used to this.

With this out of the way, almost all of the other characters are terrific. Where Zhang is the blank canvas, everyone else is the paint. The series grows more and more endearing as each episode passes. Where RUYI slowly waterboards you into giving up all hope, REBEL offers hope.

Every great series has a breakaway character that you'll then want to see a LOT more of. In RUYI it was Princess Jia (Xin Zhi Lei) who is the most beautiful b!tch to hit TV or cinema. In REBEL it's Helan Zhun (Yuan Hong) who I called Aquaman the entire time because he looks (kinda) like the Chinese version of Jason Momoa. His character does some pretty awful things but MAGICALLY you hold some compassion for him too. He really made Tong Yang fight for screen time.

(By the way, in America, the CW took the world's largest POO on the classic Kung Fu series. I don't mind the remake as a show but recognize it's plainly not based on the original series at all. It's like renaming THE OFFICE as KUNG FU. But Tony Yang's intensity in the back half of the series tells me China should do an actual remake of KUNG FU, starting and spending a lot of time in China. Starring Tony Yang. He'd make a solid Caine.)

Now, of the romance. This story was a welcome soapy affair after RUYI. I don't want to spoil but I will say Awu attracts men the way an open KFC dumpster attracts flies. If you take this story literally you won't like it. If you accept its instead a feel good romantic fable -- and need that in your life before embarking -- this series will charm you SILLY.

FUN TRIVIAL FACT -- At the end of each episode is an absolutely beautiful duet between a man and a woman trying to find love inside the Kooky Backstabbing Kingdoms of C-Dramas. If you open your heart to it you'll watch the complete ending every time. The song is even featured within maybe 6 episodes.

But there is a BATTLESHIP sized detail about this song. The lovely woman who's singing? As Austin Powers once said, "She's a MAN, baby!" It may be worth watching this show just to experience that.

Oh and the production values are through the roof and puncture a hole right thru the Moon. But that can't carry you further than 3 episodes. This ensemble will. But know the series takes time to really grab you. Under 10 episodes for most.

Now, there was on character I felt was handled poorly. General Song started out great, but in the interests of romantic drama, took a series of turns that... well... I don't believe the audience appreciated. I've saved this last note for people who have seen the series, and so the next paragraph is SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER.

***************************** SPOILING BELOW *******************************

At the end of the story, Song watches his wife beg him to save himself (and his soul) and let Awu and Lord be. When he refuses to abide by her wishes, she does (something) that should have changed his mind. Minutes later, at the end of his sword, he does something that wasn't intended. The audience says YAY but then (the pig) grabs Awu's face and makes a play for her. That was done for drama but wasn't the least bit believable. If memory serves Helan never even pulled that stunt, was more of a gentleman.

Since I've written a handful of stories myself, I'll offer what I consider a cleaner (more appropriate) resolution of Song's arc.

Song witnesses his wife jump to her death. Later (before he confronts Awu) he looks down at his dead wife on the ground. He realizes his folly. He might even say to someone how she only lived for him. And how he didn't appreciate that.

When he's with Awu, her father explains that he will be emperor. And that nothing and no one can stop him. He stands close to his daughter when he says this, meaning even Awu. This threat is critical, and was missing from the story. And the fact it was missing kinda screwed up the ending. Because in the story she later talks to her father as if all the crap he's pulled was okay with her because of blood relation. Except we the audience know it wasn't.

So it's CRITICAL that Away abandon any love of her Dad she has upon being threatened. At this moment Awu should pull out the small knife the Lord handed her a long time ago in the story. I believe they intended to have her use it here but chickened out at the last moment. I wouldn't chicken out. I'd have Awu tell her father it's over. That's when he takes the knife and attempts to turn it on Awu herself. And it is at this point Song ends Wang Lin.

After doing so, Song looks completely broken. The Lord and his soldiers arrive, but it's clear from Awu's face it's already over. Song sees the Lord and Awu stand beside each other and wipes a tear away. He says words to the effect of, "I see what I always should have seen. That you two belong side by side. And that my place was always... elsewhere."

Song would leave the chamber. Moments later a servant would run in and tell the Lord Song will kill himself. They run out to and catch Song just as he jumps off the ledge his wife did. They look down and find him dead... beside his wife.

What I'm trying to suggest is that Song was more noble throughout the story. That he didn't need to become a 'demon' in the last moments of the series. Even Helan had this figured out.

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Completed
SanaRehmat
1 people found this review helpful
Jan 3, 2026
68 of 68 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10

Grand Epic of Love, Power, and Unshakable Loyalty—A game of chess

A historical masterpiece that proves mature storytelling never goes out of style

⭐ Overall Review

The Rebel Princess is one of those rare historical C-dramas that fully commits to epic storytelling and delivers with its powerful performances, intricate politics, and deeply mature romance, this drama grips you from start to finish despite its long runtime.

Great drama, a magnificent lead couple with a lot of chemistry and jaw-dropping technical quality. It deserves to be reviewed over and over again because it is worth it.Refreshingly mature slow burn relationship.

This was my first historical drama, and it holds a very special place in my heart. It set the bar incredibly high for everything that came after. From the opening episodes to the final scenes, the story feels grand, emotional, and meaningful, never shallow, never careless.

Yes, it’s long. Yes, it’s heavy. But it is never empty.

🎭 Acting & Performances – Veteran Power at Its Finest

This drama thrives because of its cast.

The leads are not idol-style actors, and that works completely in its favor. Their maturity brings credibility, weight, and emotional depth to the story.

A’Wu is intelligent, graceful, resilient, and heartbreakingly human. Watching her endure betrayal after betrayal without losing her moral compass is both painful and admirable.

Xiao Qi sets the gold standard for historical male leads: loyal, principled, emotionally steady, and deeply devoted to his wife. A true general in every sense.

The supporting cast adds layers of intrigue, betrayal, and emotional complexity that elevate the entire narrative.

The chemistry between the main couple is built on trust, respect, and shared hardship, not shallow attraction—and that makes it unforgettable.

👑 Characters – Strong, Complex, and Memorable

One of the most impressive aspects of this drama is how every character matters.

Friends, enemies, traitors, and allies all feel purposeful.

Villains are intelligent and manipulative rather than cartoonish.

The betrayals cut deep because they come from family, not strangers.

A’Wu is surrounded by people who claim to love her and yet repeatedly harm her. Watching her navigate loyalty, grief, loss, and power is emotionally exhausting in the best way.

💔 Romance – Mature, Steady, and Unshakable

This is not a fluffy romance and that’s exactly why it works.

The relationship begins as an arranged marriage, but slowly transforms into one of the most solid partnerships in historical C-dramas. There is no unnecessary misunderstanding arc, no childish jealousy, no forced angst.

Instead, we get:

Mutual respect
Honest communication
Shared values
Loyalty over everything

Their love feels earned, calm, and deeply rooted.

🎨 Production, Costumes & Cinematography – Regal and Immersive

Visually, The Rebel Princess is stunning.

👗 Costumes

Elegant, detailed, and rich without being excessive. A’Wu truly feels like the fashion icon of her era.

🏯 Sets & Scenery

From palace interiors to battlefields, everything feels grand, deliberate, and immersive.

🎶 OST & Sound Design

The music enhances emotional scenes beautifully, never overpowering but always impactful.

⚔️ Plot & Themes – Politics, Power, and Survival

This drama balances:

Court politics
Military strategy
Betrayal and loyalty
Power struggles
Love versus duty

It constantly asks difficult questions:

Is blood thicker than loyalty?
Can integrity survive power?
How much must one sacrifice for peace?

The plot is layered, tense, and emotionally heavy—but never meaningless.

⏳ About the Length & Casting

Yes, the leads were in their late 30s to early 40s while playing younger characters—but honestly?
Their acting maturity makes the story better, not worse.

I would much rather watch seasoned actors deliver depth and realism than younger idol casts struggling with emotional weight.

✔️ Who Should Watch This?

You will love The Rebel Princess if you enjoy:

Long-form historical epics
Mature romance built on trust and loyalty
Strong female leads who endure and grow
Powerful generals deeply devoted to their wives
Intricate political intrigue
High-quality acting, costumes, and cinematography

✖️ Who Should Avoid It?

This drama may not be for you if:

You dislike long dramas (60+ episodes)
You prefer fast-paced, light romance
You want constant fluff or comedy
You dislike heavy political storylines
You strongly prefer idol-cast aesthetics over performance depth

🌟 Final Verdict: 10/10 – A Timeless Historical Epic

The Rebel Princess is a drama that stays with you long after it ends.
It’s rich, emotional, beautifully acted, and deeply rewarding.

A story of love forged through hardship, loyalty tested by power, and a partnership strong enough to withstand an empire.

A true classic—and absolutely unforgettable. 👑✨

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Completed
Nelly
1 people found this review helpful
Jul 17, 2021
68 of 68 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 8.5
Music 8.5
Rewatch Value 8.0

Alternative title: Love in Times of Royal Conflicts

OVERALL
This is a feel-good drama, not because of fluff or comedy (there's literally none in here!) but because it has a "good always wins" plot that gives you little frustration, and as a bonus, is actually gripping enough to binge. Watch it if 1) you like strong female leads, 2) you're picky about production and you need good cinematography, 3) you enjoy political intrigues. Think twice about it if 1) you like well-written and emotional love stories, 2) you like when the good guys sweat a bit, 3) you prefer dramas with a light mood/feel.

THE STORY
The best thing about this drama is its production. You can tell this was produced by someone used to film production because they really made clever, significant choices with lighting, sound and décor. All of it converges to create a dark and depressing mood/feel, which echoes the claustrophobic and tragic environment of nobility and royalty. And that's what the story is essentially about; the toxicity of the political sphere in Great Cheng era. (Just needed to fangirl over technical stuff!)

The plot is also, for the most part, quite fine. Political intrigues are coherent and they level up as the drama progresses (which is great because sometimes schemes get dumber as the story evolves). Characters have depth too, even (and especially) secondary ones. The title is misleading, main girl isn't really rebellious (she sometimes even comes off as submissive), but she is definitely strong and mature. Main guy is quiet but he's not the cold brooding type (yay!), he's actually pretty nurturing and kind. The biggest problem with The Rebel Princess is that the romance is meant to be an important part of the drama but it doesn't convince at all. Part of it is lack of chemistry between the leads, but part of it is the fact that the love story is SO underdeveloped. The protagonists go from strangers to lovers in the space of...1 episode? And then spend the rest of the drama being deeply in love. We definitely needed to see the process of them learning to care for one another. Plus, conflicts are important for relationship growth, and it doesn't feel like there's any growth in the OTP because they literally never fight.

Apart from the relationship, another downside to the drama is the way the good guys ALWAYS win. Except for once in the drama, you never really get the impression that they took on a serious blow. This isn't terrible, it makes for a more enjoyable watch, but it feels somewhat unrealistic. The ending (second half of the last episode) is also very rushed and incoherent. THAT BEING SAID, the drama is totally binge material. It's gorgeous and the never-ending schemes keep you watching until the last minute. Even though the OTP isn't swoon-worthy, you still end up rooting for them.

THE ACTING
Other reviews already mentioned the age situation, so I won't - plus, to be honest, I don't think it matters. Sure, the cast is older than the characters they play, but they look compatible with one another, so what's the problem? In general, the cast did well, especially Zhang Ziyi, but in terms of chemistry between actors (not just between the main leads but also with the secondary cast) I didn't feel much. Dramas like this highlight how acting isn't just about individual performance, it's also about the dynamics with other actors. In this case, they weren't that great. It doesn't stop you from enjoying the drama, though, so I guess it's okay.

THE MUSIC
It was fine, though there wasn't any song I felt like listening to on my own. Honestly, I was just grateful the music wasn't excessive and loud like in some other C-dramas (*cough* Oh My General *cough*).

REWATCH VALUE
It's quite high. Not super high because the drama is lowkey depressing, but it does end well and it is an enjoyable watch so I just know I'll watch it again.

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Completed
Samsam01
1 people found this review helpful
30 days ago
68 of 68 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10

Absolute Masterpierce

So i just finished this drama and the feelings are so intense, this is probably the best historical/politics drama i'have seen so far. It's a masterpiece.

The Rebel Princess is the first and the only one drama with the famous movies actress Zhang Ziyi and with Zhou Yi Wei (the ML) they doing a fantastic duo. Every actors in this drama are so good but this mature couple is so freaking good, the chemistry is so high!

The story is very well written, 68 épisodes and not a single one i didnt liked. The mature romance especially is the perfect example of how you have to write it.

The OST, the musics my friends...It's probably the best OST that I’ve ever listened for a drama, so magic , full of feelings.
The costumes, the sets for the filming, it's so perfect.
It’s one of the most expensive dramas ever produced and i can understand why, you dont see everyday this level of production.

I'm pretty sure i will rewatch it one day, and now i want to see all the movie of Zhang Ziyi!

Masterpiece!

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Completed
Le Ho
0 people found this review helpful
Jan 26, 2023
68 of 68 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 6.0
Rewatch Value 2.0
This review may contain spoilers

Excellent ensemble and the acting is super, but it was too long (68 eps)

The Rebel Princess is a costume/historical drama starring Zhang Zi Yi, Zhou Yi Wei, and Tony Yang. It is about politics and power between the Wang and Xie family. Internal turmoil within the imperial family and Princess Wang Xuan's father is the mastermind behind all the disruptions and killing of the Emporer and many innocent people, including her mother.

The acting is exceptional in this drama, from the main actors and the entire ensemble. My major complaint was that it was too long, with 68 episodes where it dragged out too long. It could have been excellent with a 9.0 or even 10.0 rating if it was cut short by 10-20 episodes.

It took a while for me to finish the 68 episodes on prime video. It was not realistic to have one prime minister overpower the entire kingdom. Her brother is useless for not standing up against his father even when he was expelled from the imperial palace.

I would be more satisfied if the ending where Princess Wang Xuan is the one to kill her father for his selfishness and power desire without any remorse.

I enjoyed the drama and gave it an 8.0 rating, but it was too long.

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Completed
Lyzeyu
0 people found this review helpful
Jul 4, 2021
68 of 68 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10
This review may contain spoilers

Phenomenal

This is probably one of the most amazing storyline, characters, cinematography, fight stunts, settings, i've seen in more than 400 chinese and korean drama i've watch over the years. After i have watched the last episode, it just left me speechless and in awe of what i have seen in the past 4 days. My lack of sleep because of this drama was all worth it. And i should say that REBEL PRINCESS is definitely at par with my all time favorite chinese drama, Ten Miles of Peach Blossom and korean drama, Moon Embraces the Sun.

Firstly, and probably the most important for me, as a big fan of a historical romance drama, the love between xiao qi and awu is something to be proud of, even as a viewer. I love how this couple started and how they fell in love in the process. And despite all the odds, their love and trust for each other has brought them to their goals as a husband and wife. I have so many favorite episodes and scenes with how the story showed the love between them, most especially lord yuzhang's love for his wife. The scenes gave me goosebumps and the lines he said was so heart flattering moments.

Secondly, i love the charisma of Lord Yuzhang and Princess Yuzhang. They both exudes the quality of how the characters were supposed to be. They were perfect in characters. As a general, lord yuzhang , when his face is on screen, you know right away that he's a mighty general. And awu, i dont probably need to say it, her face itself is a princess.

Thirdly, with so many characters revealed on thw entire 68 episodes, the love it that the scriptwriter did not waste any actors performance in the story, no matter what characters they played on. The storyline gave each characters their story, from servants to soldiers to the royals. All of them played a very important roles. And there were so many characters with unexpected twist, which, made the drama, in my opinion, one of the best stories made.

Fourtly, the fight stunts and cinematograhy has left me breathless and amazed. The fight were extraordinary and well thought of. It gave me goosebumps watching general xiao qi and his soldiers fight.

I am usually not a fan of long dramas but i sometimes give exceptions to a few, just like, ten miles of peach blossom, princess weiyoung and general and i. They are one of my favorite long dramas. And Rebel Princess is also an exxeption, 68 episodes flew by so fast. No episodes were wasted, no dull moments, every scenes were as important. Not to mention, the drama also boast beautiful visuals and costumes and a very dramatic OST. I love everything about this drama.

I most highly recommend it to those who love historical drama with lot of heartfluttering moments and a storyline that will leave you satisfied. Thank you to the scriptwriter, directors, and actors who made this amazing drama for the audiences. This will go down on ny rewatched list.

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  • Score: 8.4 (scored by 4,582 users)
  • Ranked: #770
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