Checkmate, I Win
Stand By Me began airing exactly 12 months after Love and Redemption was released last year, much to the happiness and joy of Cheng Yi fans all around the world (myself included). L&R was the drama that propelled him to stardom, and this production reaffirmed his status as one of the most anticipated drama actors in the C-historical genre. Starring numerous colleagues from his agency, H&R Century Pictures, we get a L&R reunion of sorts. This includes his “sister-in-law” Zhang Yu Xi who plays his significant other this time around.Production details that may interest you
Originally titled Dream Awakening Chang’an, the title was changed to Stand by Me along with the setting of the story as a result of the censorship requirements imposed by China’s NRTA. Initially planned as a romanticised retelling of the Tang Dynasty Emperor Li Yan aka Wuzong’s reign, the script was changed to a fictional tale of an alternate version of Tang, the Xing Dynasty’s Emperor Qi Yan. That said, the historical account of actual happenings and real life figures such as the Grand Eunuch Qiu Shiliang and Sweet Dew or Morning Dew (Ganlu) incident in the 9th century remain present in the story. The social as well as court conventions are very much Tang in appearance, most obviously the attire being worn by the various characters.
Stand by Me is both a TV drama and a web series, being simultaneously released on Hunan Satellite TV’s Golden Eagle Private Theatre and Mango TV. Filmed entirely at Hengdian, the drama is directed by Liu Guo Nan who helmed the Glory of Tang anthology, and assisted by Zhao Li Jun, who helmed Deep Lurk, another Cheng Yi drama slated for release some time later. The award-winning Shao Chang Yong serves as art director, which adds a touch of class and credibility to the production design.
The screenplay is written by Shi Si Que (十四阙), who is the current editor-in-chief of China’s Dongxi Animation Club. He has written numerous novels and short stories, while this drama represents his first foray into screenwriting.
The Production Values
The overall quality of the production is reasonably high, as can be seen from the art direction and set designs. For the most part, the technical execution is decent in terms of the direction and cinematography. During the first few episodes, there are a few noticeable editing and dubbing issues which I attribute to the change in settings from Tang to Xing Dynasty. The subtitles are generally correct but for those who understand Mandarin, the name “Great Tang” is mentioned in lieu of Great Xing on a few occasions. The buildup of the backstory in the first episode does feel somewhat rushed with the frenetic scene transitions but things begin to settle down not long afterwards.
The action sequences, particularly the synchronised swordplay formations and sword fights in general appear to be reasonably well choreographed. I like that there is no excessive use of fast cuts, slow-motion and close-ups, which makes the flow of the action less contrived. The villainous character of Qiu Shiliang employing the use of the traditional Taoist “horse-tail whisk” (拂尘), typically used in Wudang martial arts, adds a nice touch to the depiction.
The Narrative
Stand By Me is adapted from the novel Sword Weapon (Jian Qi Hang 剑器行) by the writer Feihua (飞花), a talented novelist who had won the Top Ten Novel Award of the Second Online Literature Competition in 1999.
The drama follows the journey of two sisters, descendants of a noble family that have fallen from grace as a result of political machinations and treachery. Due to the tragic events that followed, both sisters went their separate ways only to reunite at the very place that caused the downfall of their family - the royal palace. At either end of the continuing political tug-of-war is the noble Emperor and the wily chief eunuch who seeks to undermine the authority of the throne. Amidst this tumultuous backdrop, somehow the sisters end up on opposing sides in this court intrigue.
Palace politics with all its clever schemes and nefarious plots are heavily featured, in addition to themes of romance and love, as well as betrayal and revenge. This is one of the most riveting, thrilling, and suspenseful palace dramas of the year. Unpredictable twists and turns, shocking revelations, and countless exchanges between “multiple sides” merge beautifully into an exciting historical extravaganza. The storytelling is fast paced and action-packed, involving various perspectives and hidden agendas by multiple POV characters. The momentum never lets up and is sustained until the very end. All of this culminates in a profound conclusion that promises to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
It’s worth mentioning that there is more than a subtle hint of Chinese Chess (Xiangqi 象棋) being referenced throughout. Usually Go (Weiqi 围棋) is showcased in historicals as the boardgame of choice for aristocrats but it’s a nice change to see another ancient game being featured. Aside from the Purple Robed Bureau (subtitled as Violet Bureau), a fictional organisation that bears close relation to Xiangqi is the Chess of Generals Bureau, whose members represent the chess pieces such as Left and Right Advisors, Chariots, Ministers and the Chess Overseer. Fascinating stuff indeed.
The Cast Performance
Cheng Yi headlines this drama by portraying the role of Emperor Qi Yan. There isn’t much left to be said about this magnificent actor who brings his A-game every time he puts on a show for us viewers. As in L&R and also The Promise of Chang’an, it’s hard to see other actors surpassing Cheng Yi’s supreme mastery of poignant and emotional scenes of great torment and suffering, including his now trademark “poetically beautiful blood-spitting” moments. Truly the best of the best. In Stand by Me, Cheng Yi provides us with further glimpses of his versatility and range with a vastly different and never-seen-before side to his very multifaceted portrayal - the cold, ruthless and sensual Emperor. Seeing is believing and I truly do believe there is much more to this man than meets the eye that, hopefully, will be showcased in his future projects.
Zhang Yu Xi, who had previously played Chu Ling Long in L&R, appears as the female lead and primary love interest this time, Cheng Ruo Yu. A promising actress who possesses much depth in her moving portrayal of emotional pain and suffering. As it was in L&R when her character had suffered PTSD, the conviction of her expressions certainly reflects her growing maturity in tackling complex characterizations, which is the case in this drama. She manages to infuse her character here with a fusion of kindness and righteousness that are borne of purity, as well as a developing sense of awareness and pragmatism. These are qualities that reflect the tremendous growth her character experiences through the course of the story.
Deserving of equal billing as part of the three leads, the ever charming and elegant Xuan Lu graces this drama with her appearance as one of the estranged sisters. She had previously caught the eye with her memorable depiction of the delicate and kind Jiang Yan Li in The Untamed. This time, she brings an air of sophistication to the cool and calculated character that is perpetually shrouded in mystery, Qiu Yan Zhi. I honestly feel that there are moments where she manages to steal the limelight from Cheng Yi and Zhang Yu Xi, for she has such a presence that lights up the screen whenever she appears.
Notable mentions for other major characters go to Han Dong who plays Prince Guang, and He Cheng Ming as the chief eunuch Qiu Shiliang. Han Dong is an exceptional actor who has appeared in many historicals so there are no surprises to the dimensions he imbues the characters he portrays. His nuanced microexpressions are always expertly delivered and a joy to behold. He Cheng Ming, who previously played Si Feng’s father and Master of Li Ze Palace in L&R, is another experienced hand with a wide repertoire of works in many varied roles. This time around, he is perhaps more subdued and less OTT, but still retains that aura of an expert performer who immerses into the character with such consummate ease. In short, he always looks like he’s having fun and he carries the role with glee. I have to admit, the mannerisms in his depiction remind me at times of Sun Wukong the Monkey King.
Among the familiar faces in supporting roles, look out for Xi Xue (Under the Power, Lin Ling), who has a significant arc as Cheng Xi, Yang Xi Zi (L&R, Xiao Yin Hua) as Princess Misha, He Zhong Hua (L&R, Xuan Ji’s father) as Li Deyun, Li Jun Yi (L&R, Zhong Min Yan) as Yan Xiu, Ethan Yao (L&R, Ting Nu) as Han Yue, Fu Fang Jun (L&R, Wu Zhi Qi) as Han Ding, and of course, the unforgettable Bai Shu (L&R, Tengshe) as Prince An.
The Music
No C-historical would be complete without epic songs from the likes of Zhou Shen and Liu Yuning. Cheng Yi also contributes to the soundtrack with his beautiful rendition of Shou Shou, which is my favourite track of this drama. Along with the BGM, there are a total of 7 tracks:
Yu Yan Shuo 鱼雁说 by Audio Monster/Silver Lin (音频怪物 / 银临)
Chang'an 长安 by Liu Yuning 刘宇宁
In Through Dream若梦 by Zhou Shen 周深
Small Dust 小尘 by Shuang Sheng 双生
High Above in the Sky 当空 by Nana 许艺娜
Shou Shou 相守 by Cheng Yi 成毅
Worrying about the Sky 杞人忧天 by Allen Su Xing 苏醒
Overall
Stand by Me is a drama I had been anticipating from Cheng Yi since last year, and I’m pleased to say I haven’t been disappointed with the plot and overall technical execution of the production as well as the performance of the cast. It is not flawless by any means but I appreciate the nature of the storytelling that eventually culminates in a rather conceptual ending, which somehow seems to be the standard for C-historicals these days. In any case, the entertainment value is high and I have thoroughly enjoyed the intrigue as well as unexpected plot points throughout the 49 episodes of its run.
Was this review helpful to you?
A game of chess that is masterfully crafted
Admittingly, grasping this drama could be a tad bit difficult to achieve. It is like hanging on a fast train. Multiple characters will be thrown and their role on the show will perplex the viewers at first. Should they be trusted or not? Who are the villains? Who is the third person? The rebellion that happened in the past – which obviously is the driving force for the motivation of most characters -- will not be explained in detail and therefore adds more confusion to the viewers. BUT FEAR NOT, because once you get your footing of everyone and everything, you are in for a good ride. Now you are welcomed to a rather fun (or distressing) game of chess.This drama is full of characters that have so much depth. From the main to supporting leads, you will gain a better understanding of the reason for their actions. Redundant or useless characters are nonexistent. Everyone will be used as a pawn and will contribute to the game. Every move will put your brain on a gutter, trying to figure out what their next step would be. This brings us to what I love most about this show – unpredictability. The plan of the other would create a ripple effect and would, at most times, ruin the initial plan of the other. One decision or action could elevate to a bigger event which makes it even more interesting.
Even though the romance is not the focus, the tandem of the main leads is commendable. No skinship is even necessary, their joint venture to team up and knock down the eunuch faction is more than enough. Their utmost trust between each other throughout the drama did not falter. The loyalty that Ruo Yu have towards Qi Yan is admirable. No annoying misunderstandings are present as even though the male lead has continuously pushed the female lead away multiple times, she stood by her purpose – and that is to protect the emperor no matter what it takes. I love how both leads are smart and attempts not to bring their emotions to spoil their plans. The drama did a good job with displaying how much the emperor cares about his love, and yet he does not treat her as someone who is always in constant need of his protection. He trusts her by letting her go and have full confidence that she will get the job done. The female lead may be naïve at times, but she is strong and is someone that the emperor could greatly confide into.
The acting is brilliant and the heartbreaking scenes are beautifully captured. In fact, this is the first drama of Yu Xi that I have been truly impressed by her performance. Cheng Yi’s acting is already a given, and he indeed shined the brightest here. But flowers should also be given to other supporting casts (Yu Xi, Xuan Lu, etc.) whose crying scenes have broke my heart many many times.
Overall, this is one of the best palace dramas I’ve watched. It is fast paced with all the intriguing movements from every character. It did not drag at all as it kept my interest from beginning until the end. An emotional roller coaster ride that is worth every second. You will cry, smile, empathize, and lastly, gain a deeper understanding of everyone as the story progresses.
Was this review helpful to you?
Who Is the Third Person?
This is a story fictionalizing and romanticizing the actual historical events and characters of the late Tang Dynasty during the reign of Emperor Wuzong (r. 840 – 846). Apart from a few actual historical characters such as Emperor Li Yan (Wuzong) himself and the eunuch Qiu Shiliang, most of the other characters and events are fictional, though certain events are inspired by actual account based on historical records. Adapted from a novel, the overall story is fascinating and nail-biting, at the same time heart-wrenching when it comes to the fate of the Emperor and his romance with the only woman he loves and trusts.Probably in order to pass censorship, the names of the characters have been slightly altered: Tang Dynasty has been changed to the fictional Xing Kingdom, the Emperor’s name from Li Yan to Qi Yan, and the eunuch’s name Qiu Shiliang to Qiu Ziliang. Such changes unfortunately have not been totally incorporated in the initial few episodes where the names Qi Yan and Li Yan are used interchangeably, bagging the suspicion that they were done haphazardly in the last minutes. Nonetheless, by episode 9, everything finally settles down and the names straightened up.
The Story
In a fictional setting mirroring the reign of Wenzong towards the end of the Tang Dynasty when the eunuchs have gained full control of the palace, the Xing Emperor and his ministers attempt to dispose of the evil head eunuch Qiu Ziliang (He Chengming aka Mickey He) to regain control, but the scheme fails. Prime minister Wang Ya and his whole family are executed. His two young granddaughters escape death and are separated. The younger girl loses memory and is adopted by Cheng Xi (Xi Xue) of the Ziyi (Purple Robe) Bureau and renamed Cheng Ruoyu (Zhang Yuxi). She’s being trained as a sword fighter. Her older sister vows revenge, changes her name to Qiu Yanzhi (Xuan Lu aka Lulu Xuan) and becomes Qiu Ziliang's adopted daughter, waiting for her time to pounce. After the death of Emperor Wenzong, his younger brother, Qi Yan (Cheng Yi) is installed by the eunuch to the throne and Cheng Ruoyu is assigned the duty to protect the Emperor. Since then, Qi Yan has been a puppet emperor with no power as all the military power is in the hand of the evil eunuch. Here, the two sisters cross path in opposing camps without recognizing each other, but somehow they have an unexplained liking and bonding to each other. They join hands secretly and overcome many deadly schemes by the eunuch. Qiu Yanzhi finally finds out Cheng Ruoyu’s real identity in episode 34.
Throughout the drama, one question arises repeatedly: Who is the third person? It feels as if there’s a hidden force, planning the grand scheme of things and playing everyone like a pawn. Viewers are left guessing and the mysterious figure propels the story along.
The Acting
In the actual historical record, it is said that “Li Yan was silent, intelligent, and decisive, not showing his emotions easily”. Who is better to take up this role than Cheng Yi? He fits this description to the dot. I have to applaud the production team in selecting Cheng Yi for the Qi Yan character. As I get to know this actor better, Cheng Yi is really the perfect choice for this miserable role as the puppet emperor. Like in his previous dramas, Cheng Yi has the quality and ability in bringing out the helplessness and hopelessness his characters are facing, making them authentic and believable. With a suave look most viewers would squeal, and walks swaying side to side in his emperor robe, Cheng Yi evokes Qi Yan’s resignation and sickly health that digs deep into the viewers’ hearts. His acting is remarkable with every facial expression and sad look in his eyes, capturing all the subtle emotions hidden within Qi Yan. As a royalty, Qi Yan is arrogant but at the same time suspicious of everyone around him. Though surrounded by people, he is lonely. Most of all, like in all Cheng Yi’s other dramas, he brings out the best suppressed emotions no others can; no one can replace Cheng Yi in acting as this complex and yet miserable character.
As a lonely person at the top perceived by many as a villain, Qi Yan finds a soulmate in Cheng Ruoyu. I’m not that familiar with Zhang Yuxi’s acting but here, she is convincing as a talented sword fighter who has a pure heart. It is this pure heart that Qi Yan has fallen in love with.
I have always enjoyed Hang Dong' s acting. Here as Prince Guang, he is authentic and believable. According to historical record, Prince Guang later became the emperor after Li Yan died. Three quarter of the way in, viewers still don’t know if Prince Guang a protagonist or an antagonist because Hang Dong is that good in hiding his emotions without betraying his role in the drama, leaving viewers continue guessing.
Last but now least, I’m impressed by He Chengming’s acting as Qiu Ziliang. The blinking of his eyes when he is suspicious and furious, the cunningness showing in his eyes, his every move, bring up fear and hatred of the character for the viewers.
Official Sound Tracks (OSTs)
As usual in most Chinese historical dramas, the OSTs are beautiful with touching lyrics, reminiscing the longing, love, resignations, and hope for the kingdom.
My Verdict
This is a wuxia romance story of Tang Wuzong with a little comedy. There are intrigues and mysteries at every turn. When one thinks everything is revealed and that’s that, things change and assumptions all out of the window. There’s always this mysterious “third person or party” lurking behind the scene. No one knows who he/she is, friend or foe. Every character has his or her own agenda and most motives spur on with revenge. Subtle comedies are dotted lightly here and there to balance the intensity of the plot, giving viewers a much needed breath of air.
According to some viewers, many scenes have been edited out. This could explain why there are some plot holes and logical flaws. Nonetheless, the story overall is still intact and rather well-told. Don’t miss it.
TWO THUMBS UP! Bravo!
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Most amazing drama ??
This drama is very amazing for me. It is not a typical love stories that you watch. It is more of the chess game. Who is the master of the game. This drama is the game of mind. Best strategy to win the game. You have to win your battle with the most strategic way. I love the Emperor so much. He plays like a weaker one and you think he will lose the game. But it turns out he is the most strategic one. Like what he said he is the master of the game. So you know that in the end He will win this battle. I love the acting of each actors. They played their roles very well. Especially Cheng Yi ❤️ I always admire him. He is the best actor for me. I love everything about him. And of course everyone in this cast and production! I love the OST -high above the sky and the one that Cheng Yi sang. I love everything about this drama. ❤️❤️❤️Was this review helpful to you?
Great story
Just finished today. I normally only write reviews about extraordinary dramas and this one qualifies. Having said that... What a show. Painfully underrated I see. It's a drama that you have to pay attention the entire time. It has very few light moments, so it is a heavy drama. If you don't like heavy dramas, then this one is probably not for you.Cheng Yi's acting was spot on. His ability to show internal and external suffering was vivid, palpable. Mickey He, also did a superb job in playing the evil character that we loved to hate. Lulu Xuan got to show off her great acting in this drama. She was great in The Untamed but she got a much bigger and deeper role in this drama as Qiu Yan Zhi. My favorite characters were Qi Yan and Xiu. The forever loyal Xiu was superbly played by Li Jun Yi. Another favorite character was played by Fu Fang Jun,
Han Ding.
Loyalty, deception, and fighting spirit despite inner and outer suffering were throughout this drama. If you like strong women fighters, you'll love this drama. Cheng Ruo Yu played Zhang Yu Xi was the emperor's backbone and the fighting scenes have you cheering. Overall, I felt it was well-written, well-casted, and definitely well-acted. All the characters invoke emotional responses. I wouldn't miss it if you enjoy serious dramas as I do.
Was this review helpful to you?
Even with Cheng Ye in bed for half the drama I still don’t recommend
I was expecting so much of this drama. It was a fail. I stayed with it because of my love affair with Cheng Yi. His performance was stellar! His acting was on point but 90% of the time he was just there looking miserable because the conditions were miserable. This drama was boring confusing so many names so many characters so annoying. I watched it but I skipped a bunch. the female lead was so annoying with her goofy faces. I watched 49 episodes and basically skipped through to see Cheng Yi on the verge of death for every scene . Mickey He the eunuch was the most entertaining character in the whole drama. Every time he was on it was interesting.I know I’m complaining a lot for someone who did enjoy it. But I will never rewatch it never.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Love that willing to trust the other unconditionally
I was watching this in its premiere but stopped watching in the middle because the story got boring (as normally happens with those long episodes Chinese drama). Do not make this deter you to watch this drama. Since now the drama is finished, you can always binge watch it so you certainly will not experience my boredom back then.The drama spin a tale of kingdom that ruled by eunuch. The focus of the drama is how the rightful monarch tried to take back authority from the eunuch faction. The politic itself was good, but it was no Nirvana in Fire level. Still, it was good enough. The villain was also very real and his defeat was handled with respect. I hate it when the villain defeat is caused by his/her IQ plummet somehow in the end of the show. Fortunately, that did not happen in this drama. Qiu Zhi Liang was wonderful villain and it took lots of sacrifice from the "good guys" camp and lots of strategy to finally bring him down.
Cheng Yi was stellar here as ML. His acting here taught me how "dying" should be acted. His death pained me. Even after watching last episode multiple times, his death scene always bring me to tears without fail. Qi Yan had a very bitter life. Never got to live for himself. His life was filled with responsibility and promise toward dead men. It was sad that he did not get to enjoy the fruit of his labor, but his death was a release in a way. The most important thing was he was dead with knowledge that he was loved.
Even though romance was not the focus in this drama, I admire how romance relationship between ML and FL was portrayed here. FL started as naive but she was as stable as a rock in her trust toward ML. Many times Qi Yan deliberately acted as bad man toward Cheng Ruo Yu to drive her away for her own good. But Cheng Ruo Yu kept on believing in him and trying to understand him. And when people said to her that Qi Yan had harmed her family, she was still willing to understand him. Some people perhaps will say this is a stupidity. But in my eyes, this is true love. Cheng Ruo Yu truly loved Qi Yan. She looked to his heart and accepted him whole, his identity, responsibility, weakness, and sin. Her love was just that big. Due to this, no one could ever drive a wedge between them. She had this unwavering trust, and she always patiently waited for Qi Yan to come to her himself to explain things.
Nowadays, lots of drama depicted FL as abrasive woman. Dare to love, dare to hate, as people like to coin them. However, as I see it, those FL are only dare to hate. They will be the first to interrogate and doubt their man at every instigation. They are the queen and even though they are in the wrong, the man should be the one coax them. Honestly, as a woman myself, I am tired watching those type of FL. It needs more bravery to love than to hate. Love means open your heart defenseless, to sacrifice. Therefore, the way Cheng Ruo Yu loved in this drama, is so very refreshing. She loved wholeheartedly, without sparring herself a chance to defense herself. The FL acting skill was a bit lacking indeed, but it did not take away the good side of her character.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
The Emotions Portrayed
The plot is amazing no doubt but it's the cast who have my heart especially Cheng Yi. I am watching his drama for the first time and the way his eyes tell his emotions is so impressive. Qi Yan has felt so much throughout the drama, love, desperation, powerful, wrecked. Cheng Yi managed to portray everything without leaving a single stone unturned. It feels as if he studied his character for years. Nothing but impressed.At first I thought that the director has picked a very weak looking King. As kings have been glorified everytime we study history. But the more I understand Qi Yan the more I fall in love with how beautifully and meticulously Cheng Yi portrays him. The way his eyes sparkle when portraying victory or love. The way his eyes stoop down in a depressive scene. No one could have done a better job for this role. I realised that I might have found my favorite Chinese actor now.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
A Majesty and His Chess Game Strategy
Stand by Me….A emotional and deep storyline that based on the chess game strategy by Majesty to control his throne.
▫️Main Point
~ A young Emperor who being controlled by Eunuchs and determined to keep his throne and revenge for his late Emperor and teacher.
~ A Sword Bearer who swear to stand together with the Emperor to help him revenge and protect his throne.
▫️Short Synopsis
From the late Emperor to the young Emperor, Qi Yan were controlled by Eunuchs who take much powered in administration and management of the Tang Dynasty. Qi Yan who have much burdens and struggle to leave from being controlled by Eunuch. He wants to get the revenge for his brother, the late Emperor who being killed by Eunuch and also save his throne from Eunuch’s control. Later he met Cheng Ruoyue as she was appointed as Sword Bearer to protect him from being killed. Then Qi Yan was attracted to Cheng Ruo as she always trust him and followed him even he do many bad things in the past in order to get the throne. Even though Cheng Ruoyue needs to protect him as her duties but Qi Yan felt that he needs to protect her. He always want to send Cheng Ruoyue far away to keep a distance from him in order to protect her. But Cheng Ruoyue disobey by continuing to stay beside him. A lot of conflicts happened since the Emperor and Eunuch quarel to each other to get the power.
▫️Characters Intro
~ Cheng Yi was handsome and talent guy. He was good in acting the character of Qi Yan. I could see his determination and ability in acting. I salute him for his betterment in acting.
~ Zhang Yuxi, I knew her before when watching My Little Princess and Intense Love. She was pretty, cute and lovely. She also good in acting as Cheng Ruoyue. She can portrayed the character as the same in the novel. They both have a very good in chemistry. I loved to see their romance even they still not showed it until now but I could see how much Qin Yan loved Cheng Ruoyue. For the other casts, they are all good. They have their own point of character to show to us.
▫️Overall
The drama has a lot of conflicts and obstacles happened between His Majesty and Eunuchs’s people. In order to win the game, His Majesty used a lot of strategies and many people died including Cheng Ruoyue’s sister Yan Zhi. Finally, Qi Yan successful in his strategy by killing Eunuch’s leader, Qiu Zhiliang. He was so happy since he can reduce the power of Eunuch’s people and win the game. But he was in bad condition and had no choice but to give his throne to his uncle, Prince Guang in order to rule the palace.
Even though Qi Yan and Yu’er did not get to stay together and married as a legal couple but they’re still able to date in the market before Qi Yan passed away.
Yu’er able to live in a freedom and simple life. She open the noodle store and become an independent person. The meaning of her smile before the drama was ended was indeed mysterious but I can feel she was so happy….
Was this review helpful to you?
Pointless Revenge Drama
Could there possibly be a more repetitive or boring drama? It doesn't seem likely. I feel like it wasn't the FL trying to take revenge on the aristocracy so much as it was the writers of this drama, taking out all their malcontent about the industry on us, the viewing public.Could they possibly have dragged the simple revenge premise of this drama out any further than its 49 episodes of non-stop clichès on repeat? I highly doubt it, but I don't want to find out.
If this story formula sounds interesting to you: protagonist attempts to find some information, gets sick, almost dies, gets healthy, repeat ad nauseum, then you'll probably enjoy this non-existent plot drama. Now that I think about it, it only takes place in a handful of rooms inside a palace, so even the setting, and the incredibly dull costumes are like a claustrophobic cry for help.
Was this review helpful to you?
Nice palace drama
It's only at the end of the drama when I realize that this is a small adaptation of the real history. As a sucker for historical dramas, I quite like how the plot focuses more on the political side of things instead of just pure palace romance. However, there are some parts where I find are quite unnecessary, which is why I did not rate the drama too high.Parts I love:
1) You'll see quite a balance in terms of important roles between female and male. For once, we have a historical drama where female don't just show off their wits in palace schemes but play substantial roles in politics.
2) Patience is virtue. Most people can't stand slow plot progressions, so I wouldn't recommend this drama if you're one of them. This drama is not just a battle of the brains but also a battle of patience. You'll see a lot of scenarios where the "good people" will lose and had to do things that they don't want to do in order to obtain the final victory.
There's always pros and cons. Here are the things that I cannot oversee or don't think makes sense to me.
1) Unpopular opinion: the female lead plays the most pointless role in the drama. To be honest, it feels as though the screenwriter is trying to force this character in just for the sake of the romance element. She is not the greatest in martial arts, she is not the smartest of the lot, she plays no use to the emperor being by his side but has a delusion that she does and I don't see how she constantly "spoils" Qiu Zi Liang's evil plans - it feels like she spoils the emperor's plans even more. In fact, most or even all the wounds on the emperor attribute to her. She'll usually only turn up at times when the plans are already almost successful and play a simple role, then it becomes her credit.
2) The third person. Honestly, I knew who the third person is from the start. They had dropped way too many clues. Why I think this third person is pointless is because I thought they could have teamed up with the emperor. Why go through all that trouble "working independently" only to achieve the same goal as the emperor? Teamwork makes the dream work, no?
I have to be honest - this is not the best drama but I did enjoy it to some extent.
Was this review helpful to you?
One of the best palace dramas in recent years - excellent storyline and sub-plots
“Stand by Me (SBM)” or previously known as “Dream of Chang’An” is perhaps not your typical palace drama because the struggles involved an all-powerful eunuch, the Emperor and an unknown Third Force, which remains a mystery until 2/3rd into the series. The strength of this costume c-drama lies in its intricate, complex and highly entertaining storyline with various sub-plots. Palace drama will always be compared to “Nirvana In Fire (NIF)” – the gold standard in this type of genre. To me, the plots and subplots of SBM are much better than NIF as you are left guessing and wondering of what would happen next. You are left at the edge of your seats; always looking forward to the next episodes. Even in NIF, you know the ML will eventually achieve his ultimate goal of getting his close friend to the throne. In SBM, this is not so clear cut, as there are choices to be made by the FL whether to side with the killer of her family or with her elder sister bent on revenge.The first time I was aware of this period drama was when Cheng Yi’s “Love and Redemption (L&R)” and “The Promise of Chang’An (PoCA)” premiered back to back last year featuring the same male lead actor. Cheng Yi was quite unknown before L&R but his popularity sky-rocketed after the double releases and the Studio rode on this sudden and unexpected rise of Cheng Yi’s fame by releasing the stills of “Dream of Chang’an”. More Cheng Yi’s period drama with an almost identical title to PoCA and the cast that resembles a mini reunion of L&R, minus Yuan BingYan. No wonder after its release, the Producer changed the series title to something different and distinguishable as there are tens of historical Chinese dramas with “Chang’An” in their title names.
The cast is not just full of L&R but also PoCA actors. Not surprising since the Producer of “Stand By Me” (SBM) is also the producer of both L&R and PoCA. The actors are mainly from H&R Century Pictures. Personally, I like the line-up and familiar with the works of most of the cast. 3 out of 4 main leads in L&R, except Crystal Yuan, are present in this 49-episode costume drama. Cheng Yi’s role is the typical tormented soul just like in L&R and PoCA. In L&R, he died 9 times and coughed blood on countless occasions. In PoCA, our handsome male lead, who happened to be the most powerful God of War of the empire, did not get the love of his life and died tragically - alone and miserable. In SBM, Cheng Yu is again a forlorn figure – misunderstood and despised by all except the Female Lead (FL). I am so used to seeing this type of acting from Cheng Yu, and his trademark of clenching his fists whenever he’s repressing his true feeling, that his acting does not raise any eyebrow for me anymore. Zhang YuXi plays a porcelain doll who is unabashedly loyal to ML, but with a lethal swordsmanship. A combination of beauty and brawn, but with added naivety, childishness, and innocence with undying devotion towards the ML. Not really my cup of tea for FL characteristics, but this type of stereotype for FL is a favourite character in Chinese dramaland, where all leading ladies even in their 30s of early 40s like Yang Mi, Zhao Liying, Tiffany Tang, Zhang Ziyi, etc love to take up the role.
I love the characters of the other leading figures – Yan Xiu, Princess Misha, Qiu YanZhi, Prince Guang and Cheng Xi. Yan Xiu is a monstrous killing machine who is soft at heart, and in love with his superior – YanZhi. But he does not show any weakness because of his feeling towards YanZhi; and is steadfast and committed in carrying out his countless missions. YanZhi is driven by revenge is in the mould of Mei ChangSu from NIF, and I do wish to see a happy ending for her, but I know that would be impossible. Princess Misha is another lovable character. She is just a side story and I would prefer more screen time for her, but her character reminds me a lot of Mo ShanShan of EverNight series – my most favorite character in Chinese dramaland alongside Zhao Min from the third instalment of the Condor trilogy by Jin Yong. Then, the baby-faced Cheng Xi and her absolute resolve and determination comes what may to get her half brother on the throne. But last but not least, Prince Guang, the miracle physician who should have become the Emperor instead of our ML. You know in any Chinese period dramas, a miracle doctor/physician is a must because you can’t get the ML or FL to die half-way, because they could only die at the end like Bloody Romance, Goodbye My Princess, Legend of YunXi, Legend of Awakening, etc but I digress….
Special mention must be made to Mickey He or Qiu ZiLiang. He especially caught my attention in L&R as the father of Cheng Yi (Sifeng) and Master of LiZe Palace. Everytime he appeared on screen, I cringed. His character as the Master of LiZe Palace was like a buffoon, rather than an eccentric figure. In “Stand By Me”, his acting or overacting to be precise was especially bad and atrocious. I don’t know whether to laugh or cry back then when watching L&R and having the sense of deja-vu again in this drama. I get it that Qiu Ziliang was never a likable character. But his constant rapid eye movement and twitching of his cheek were certainly over-the-top. It did not look natural, and a distraction to the whole scenes. There were times when I was perplexed by his reaction and facial expression such as at the end of Episode 31 when Prince An died from poisoning in his presence. I don’t pinpoint any bad acting for as long as I could remember - only bad casting – but Mickey He takes the cake. He stood out like a sore thumb and I have to mention him here to get it off my chest.
Now, to why I consider “Stand By Me” as one of the best costume period dramas of 2021. THE STORYLINE. It has one of the best storylines of palace drama. My pet peeve with c-drama in general is that I could watch the first few episodes, and know how the whole drama is going to end up. There are no surprises. The main plot takes up 80% of the screen time, and various, sometimes, meaningless sub-plots are included to fill up the time-slot. Not here, though. The main plot, ie the love story between Qi Yan n Cheng Ruoyu does not take too much screen time, but still a bit too much for my own liking (not as bad as Ancient Love Poetry). Can’t stand watching a couple constantly professing love for one another. Then various sub-plots from Qiu YanZhi/Yan Xiu, the Third Force, Cheng Xi and the Purple Bureau, the head Eunuch, Princess Misha and her Army, etc. These sub-plots are integral to the whole storyline of the power struggle between the head eunuch and the puppet Emperor, and not just acts as water fillers. Plenty of heart-wrenching moments in the whole storyline, but not so much light-hearted comedic moments – understandable, because the whole premise of the period drama is vengence. As you get deeper into the storyline and its sub-plots, you will be wondering about the following
• Is the good guy going to win here? You bet. The Head Eunuch will ultimately meet his demise sooner or later.
• Are the main protagonists going to end up together even though the ML was responsible for wiping out the FL’s family in the Morning Dew Revolution? You bet, can’t have a sad ending here, can’t you?
• Will Qiu YanZhi get her revenge on His Majesty? I have a strong feeling YanZhi will have a sad ending. Will it be a sad ending for Yan Xiu too?
• What happen with Princess Misha and her army? Will she come to the Emperor’s rescue? Like Cheng Ruoyu, Li Misha cannot get away from the shackles of love.
• How would Cheng Ruoyu react once she finds out that she is the younger sister of Qiu YanZhi, and that the Emperor is their mortal enemy?
• With the Emperor being sick most of the time, will the Third Force usurp the throne? They look like the most potent force in this drama, with connection and people through-out the Empire with a reluctant leader good enough to assume the throne from a sickly and love-struck Emperor.
• Qiu ZiLiang has 40+ episodes to kill all his opponents, who are at his mercy. He does not kill any of his major opponents. Can’t have a bad guy winning, can’t you?
• Despite being on the verge of death so many times, the lead characters (ML/FL) just refuse to die. Typical c-dramas. Suddenly wonder poisons and medicines, cure-all antidotes, miracles physicians, etc appearing – you get the drift.
This is by no means an excellent series. Other than story lines, the other aspects are just AVERAGE. How could an Imperial Palace be so empty all the time – it’s unrealistic. The Producer probably does not have the budget the hire more extras to act as eunuchs, court ladies, servants, court officials, princes and princesses, etc. IMO, this points to lack of budget to drive this drama. The fighting scenes especially between FL and the other girls from Purple Bureau was quite bad or at best, average. The Producer has to make some scenes in slow-motion to compensate for the lack of fighting choreography and lack of swordsmanship in real time.
The series is 4 episodes away from the end. Just can’t wait to see the reaction from the FL when she finally chooses love over her sister’s desire for revenge. At least that is how I believe this series is going to conclude/end. Overall score - 9.0/10.0. Excellent storyline.
Was this review helpful to you?
