Fireworks of My Heart (2023)

Nice cinematography, weak plot/script

Before this drama aired, I was pretty hyped for it bc my fave actor is in it and I watched from ep 1 - 25. I haven't read the novel.
Pros:
- The director used a really pretty filter for the drama, it got some nice shots, good bgm for emotional scenes
- The budget is there, the scale was quite big and I can see their efforts with rescue/fire fighting/hospital scenes
- Decent performances from other supporting actors/actresses

Cons:
- Some scenes and lines came off as preachy, "textbook" and unnatural
- Character developments for the 2 leads are quite weak and unclear. I get that characters should have weakness and shouldn't be perfect but damn, these 2 are quite unlikeable. Some of their lines and actions were questionable. Ik there are reasons for their actions but the director didn't show it clearly enough so that viewers can understand the characters.
- The YY's acting was stiff and emotionless. And idk why he kept frowning all the time. WCR was a bit better, especially in sad scenes, but she's a bit one-note and inconsistent.

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Angst Galore

An okay drama with lots of frustrating moments.

Be ready to pound your chest in frustration at the slow pacing and weak (albeit understandable) character personalities/actions (talking about Xu Qin here). XQ was quite a frustrating character to watch in the beginning, and I'm torn because I understood her dilemma and lack of action in being independent and relying on herself, but I also thought she was too spineless and too dependent on her parents. As someone who values independence, it was really frustrating to watch her. She grows a major backbone by the end and delivers one of the best speeches I've ever seen of a child rebuking their parents' actions, which was so satisfying.

I've seen some people compare this drama to Road Home and I get why. There's a lot of similarity in the relationship dynamic between the two couples. Specifically, both dramas are really about this couple who've known eo from childhood, spent time broken apart, found eo again and reunite and try to make their relationship work while dealing with the realities of life around them (their work, family pressures, personal pride/prejudices, adulthood, etcetra). Even the pacing of the non-romance parts were the same as we got to see a lot of both MCs day-to-day life at work fighting fires or saving lives in the hospital. I personally enjoyed these scenes as well as it was a reprieve from all the angst in the characters' personal lives, but if you prefer faster pace romances, then you may not like this.

The romance aspect was different from Road Home though. XQ and Sang Yan's relationship didn't feel as stable as the couple in Road Home. Also, I personally preferred the actors' chemistry in RH more. In this drama, the XQ and SY had chemistry, but it felt a little like acting to me and so less natural. It also didn't help that I just kept feeling like Yangyang was giving the same "man-in-love" kind of performance that I've seen him do in other dramas (honestly, specifically referring to his performance in YAMG. You know those scenes, the ones where he grabs Dilraba and tucks her in his neck, cradles her hair, presses his nose into her neck and whispers sweet nothings into her ear and alla that). Anyway, the whole "in-love" performance in this drama just looked so similar to me, so the chemistry here looked a little bit recycled and less natural. Regardless, the couple were really sweet together and adorable so if you're not picky like me, you'll for sure enjoy their romance and have no problem with the chemistry.

I've said this before and I'll keep saying it again - Not every plot line needs a happy ending. Sometimes, people are shitty and they deserve to deal with the bad karma that comes from the consequences of their actions. I wish cdramas would stop caring so much about filial piety at the expense of one's child's mental health, but who am I to say that? It's their culture. Side note, I'd like to give 10 stars to XQ's mom for her acting in this drama. That lady freaking killed it.

Anyway, overall, it is an okay drama but I likely would have dropped it if I wasn't such a slut for Yangyang in romances.

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It's like a job recruitment ad

It's 40 hours of promoting the glory and nobility of the Chinese Fire and Rescue with medical drama and romance on the side.

This is a story about a:
- A delusional mother typical of her social caste passionately obsessed with ruining the MLs opportunities in life.
- A henpecked father with a minor redemption arc
- An obstinate and secretive ML with a hero complex more obsessed with his job than improving his situation in life for the sake of his bride.
- A clinically detached FL suffering from Stockholm syndrome but decides to break free.
- A half-brother with incestuous tendencies

The interaction of the main leads seem to lack that ummph that you'd expect between lost loves reuniting - passable but I guess the writer must have led a happy life. I found their reconciliation too rushed as well and failed to reconcile the issues from their previous separation instead burying it all under a lofty "forgiveness" arc.

That they still ended up being together against all odds and that she was able to stand up for him against her family is a testament that this is indeed a work of Chinese idealistic fiction.

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I'm still angry at them for Dapeng!

Okay let's start with the good things. It wasn't your perfect little love story, that I like. I also liked the many rescue missions. They were really well executed.

However, there were some flaws. Even though it is not a cliché love story...at the same time it is. Rich parents are not happy with the average boy who then fights to become worthy of her love. Yes, yes...that story we know. My biggest problem was of course...that death! it was totally unnecessary in my opinion. I was actually rooting for that couple more than the main leads so that's why the rating is only a seven. Ugh!!!!! Don't just kill the golden retriever characters, that's a big no no.

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Fireworks of My Heart---A Fiery Romance that Sparkles!

In the midst of its heartwarming romance, "Fireworks of My Heart" also delivers adrenaline-pumping heroic firefighter scenes and intense moments of medical drama, adding an exciting layer of action and suspense to the narrative.

The drama takes us on an exhilarating ride as Yang Yang's character, a dedicated and fearless firefighter, faces life-threatening challenges in the line of duty. The scenes depicting him and his fellow firefighters battling towering infernos with unwavering bravery and camaraderie are nothing short of awe-inspiring. As they rush into burning buildings, risking their lives to save others, the intensity of the firefighter scenes grips the audience, leaving us on the edge of our seats. The special effects and realistic portrayal of firefighting operations create a visceral experience that immerses viewers into the dangerous world these heroes navigate daily.

On the other hand, Churan's character, a compassionate and skilled doctor, takes center stage in the medical scenes. Her unwavering commitment to saving lives and her expertise in the face of critical situations bring a different kind of tension to the drama. We witness gripping emergency room moments, high-stakes surgeries, and emotional interactions with patients and their families. The drama explores the challenges and ethical dilemmas that doctors face while highlighting the resilience and dedication required to be a medical professional.

Amidst the chaos of life-and-death situations, the romance between Yang Yang and Churan continues to blossom, with their love often put to the test by the demands of their respective professions. The contrast between their passionate love story and the dangers they face in their careers adds depth and richness to the overall plot, emphasizing the significance of cherishing every moment.

In one particularly memorable scene, a devastating fire breaks out at a crowded marketplace, putting Yang Yang and his team to the ultimate test. Meanwhile, Churan confronts a challenging surgical case that could determine a patient's fate. The drama masterfully weaves together the heroics of firefighting with the tension of medical crises, leaving us emotionally invested in both aspects of the story.

As the drama progresses, we witness how these intense experiences shape the characters, reinforcing their love and determination to protect each other and those around them. The firefighter and doctor scenes not only showcase the courage and skills of these professions but also serve as a powerful reminder of the value of selflessness and sacrifice in the face of adversity.

"Fireworks of My Heart" strikes a perfect balance between heartwarming romance, thrilling heroism, and medical drama. It intertwines the lives of its characters through a tapestry of love, courage, and dedication, making it an unforgettable and emotionally fulfilling journey for its viewers. Whether it's the fiery heroics of the firefighters or the life-saving efforts of the doctors, these scenes add an extra layer of excitement to the drama, making it a must-watch for all who seek a multifaceted and captivating viewing experience.

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Good potential but…

First of all, I enjoyed this drama, but it it had many flaws.
I don’t understand the amount of hate this show got. Why an actress has to apologize for her characters actions, I will never understand. That is acting. They are not the same as the character. Apart from that, I didn’t see a need for even the character to apologize. It may be common in China to obey your parents, but I personally felt that the parents’ requests went too far. They were just as willing to lose her because of their pride, as they were accusing her of being willing to lose her family. If you love your child, you would want them to be happy. I saw online that she was called rebellious and willful, but in my opinion, she was very cowardly. She learned to stand up for herself only towards the end of the drama.

Things I enjoyed:
Overall storyline was good.
Leads acting, started rocky, but improved a lot
Made an effort with the firefighting scenes
I liked the depiction of brotherhood in the firefighting house.
Character development was good with both main characters. Female lead gained a backbone towards the end and male lead became less prideful.
Chemistry between the main characters was OK

Things I disliked:
Waaay too long, could’ve been 20 episodes shorter, I got bored many times
Acting of main male character could’ve been better (although I don’t understand the massive hate, it wasn’t that bad)
The medical scenes were a disaster, they didn’t even try to be medically accurate. In an emergency situation, as a doctor you just don’t stand around stating the obvious.
May be a cultural difference, but as I said before I couldn’t understand the female leads family. They expected a slave instead of a daughter. Why would you be so willing to lose your daughter, just to control her?
The brothers storyline felt weird to me

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watch only for superbly executed Rescue sequences and YY

I was actually quite excited to watch this drama but it turned out a bit disappointment for me. Keeping it short,

Positive points:
1) Vin Zhang and Yang Yang's chemistry as best friends not only gives nostalgic vibes (Love o2o) but feels like a banter of fresh air too!

2) Vin Zhang's special appearance- okay you may sue me for saying this but till 10th eps my all eyes were on him eventhough Yang Yang was right besides him ( Clearly overpowered YY's charm for me)

3) Extra ordinarily superb casting, yes every character from leads to the minor ones did their job fantastically!

4)Yi Da Qian as Zhan Dapeng - His death in the drama felt very very personal to me?.

5) Amazing Rescue Operation sequences


Negative Points

1) I felt zero chemistry between the main leads, infact, Jiang Yu and Li Meng had more natural chemistry than them (facts only)

2) Osts literally suck, not a single song impressed the mind and hence there is no attachment with the drama even after watching 40 eps.

3) Too much streched, it could have been easily wrapped up in maximum 30 eps.

4) I am a huge fan of Yang Yang since Love o2o days but his charm is not properly utilised and glorified for the reasons I am unable to understand.

5) Could have been a satisfactory ending instead of the forced scenes just stacked up to increase the ep count.

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Finally a decent firefighter drama!

I was actually in quite a C-drama slump, i guess, since finishing Love Like the Galaxy. Havent been able to quite finishing the dramas i’ve started after that (still have 4 episodes of love between fairy and devil to go thru and still havent had the heart to continue it right now. Lol). So basically, this is the first drama i finished since then. Quite a feat i would say, even though it took me almost a month. Lol

First of all, i would say, finally theres a drama who did the firefighter theme well in my opinion. From start to finish, i like that they stick to what firefighters do best in their line of work, which is putting down fire and rescue mission. I was literally praying they wont do what Flaming Heart did and suddenly encroached into things like drug smuggling out of nowhere. Lol. The rescue scenes are well done enough in my opinion, theres fire scenes, typhoon scenes as well as accidents scenes. Well done! The medical scenes are as usual, 50-50 hit and miss. Coming from a medical background, i still havent see doctors work done well in dramas. Maybe knowing what needs to be done and watching that it’s not in the drama took away some of the hype. Haha

The love story between Nan jie and the younger firefighter is refreshing. I bawled my heart out when he died. Opps.

Yang yang and WCR. Hmmm. I guess the chemistry is there, but it is not smouldering or anything. It was convincing enough i guess. Just not love story of the year. This is my first drama of WCR and she did well. And pretty. Looks quite natural and make up was appropriate for the role of a doctor.

First 10ish episodes was quite slow. It takes perseverance for me to keep on watching but it picks back up around 1/3rd in. Im not sure why they feel the need to include the tangent of Song Yan being a special force soldier before becoming a firefighter though. And there’s quite some link to glory of special force as well, what with the same actor cameo from GOSF in this drama as well. Did these two dramas have same director/producer?

And of course, shout out to most annoying irritating mother award of the year. Lol. Sometimes i felt like squeezing the life out of Qin Qin’s mother, erghhhhh so overbearing and cannot be reason with woman! Some people said the drama did Ye Zi bad by turning her character into such a slobe but i guess they need that to teach xu qin’s mother the taste of her own medicine. Im glad they redeemed Ye Zi at the end though.

Ost are good as well. Glad to hear Na Ying’s voice after so long (love her with Xiao Zhan in Our Song!). And I especially love the song on rescue scene! I listen to it previously sung by Bai Jinting prior to Fireworks of my heart being broadcasted, and already love it then. So it was quite a surprise to hear it as this drama’s ost.

Finally,i was glad to have found a firefighter themed drama done well like this one. After Flaming Heart and that one drama (i forgot what its name) by ren jialun, i almost gave up finding one.

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Underline difference between a rich family vs a middle class family

The story line is odd. I like that the FL and ML has problems. The different between the rich family and middle class family is like night vs day. The rich family you can call them night and the middle class call them day. The night, full of problems, ike don't get along. No love or life among family members. The Day, a family full of life. Love among each other is shown.

The FL is full of doubt. You can tell she has some of love for her family (rather is from obligation because she was adopted I don't know). Her mother likes to oversee her every ways her life from her dating to her work habits. You can tell the FL resents her mother for those actions. At times, FL looks suicidal. Her life line is the ML.

ML is a man on a mission. He has known since High School. He wanted to prove that he wasn't beneath FL's family. He is a driven for success. He is a nice guy and doesn't demean females. He loves his family and it is noticable. He is well liked by his men at the fire station. ML and FL are trying to pickup their lives, form when she dumped him (not by her choice). You can feel the sarrow as she dumped him.

Fire fighting scenes keeps you on the edge. Some of the patriotic scenes are a little over-the-top. I still feel that it is well produced and casted. The turmoil that the brother was in you felt. Your heart sunk when he finally told his mother how he felt. FL had no choice to cut her mother off at te knees after she found out it was her mother that cause the suffering of the ML. There's a point where mothers have to let loose the bonds and let their children find their own way in life. Parents should be there when their children fall for support. FL's motherdidn't do that and she almost loss both of her children. I was good to see the mother had a hange of heart. It was a shame that it took a disaster for to see that the ML was a good man.

I hate that they didn't show the wedding. Producers, Directors and Writer did an outstanding job on this series.

The Series is well worth watching and seeing it again.

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Good acting carries a seen before story.

You have probably seen this story before: young love torn apart by adults who disapprove of the relationship, leaving two people forever changed and pinning for each other for years. Until they are reunited and now they must decided if fight for their love and move on.

Story-wise, the script brings nothing new to the genre. There's the angst and pinning, unreasonable and manipulative parents, the flashbacks to happier days, the depressing present life of two adults who can't move from that time in their lives. Almost every decision made it's based on that brief time in when they were happy.

The first half of the drama we must meet the characters to understand their motivations and why they must heal first before contemplating whatever or not they want to be together. It's very frustrating. Particularly because of how manipulative leading lady's mother is. She has no absolutely no redeeming qualities and it's been a while since I wanted to strangled a fictional character so much.

The second part of the drama is less frustrating. Characters start to snap out of it and becoming far more proactive into trying to build the life they want for themselves, with the support of friends and peers.

Yang Yang and Wang Churan carry this drama with their performances. Their chemistry is off charts and they deliver a strong melodrama full of action, angst, personal trauma and romance, heightened by the life or death situations the leads find themselves in because of their field of work.

Overall, a solid story.

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Definitely not a re-watch drama

I liked the gradual build up in the initial episodes but as their story further unfolds, you will find that there was nothing really to tell about. It was highly unrealistic, female protagonist was consistently shown in a bad character, if you want me to hate her so bad why not make her a villain. Her behaviour could even be justified but you got to make room for audience to do it, instead every other character in the drama is shaming her for it.

The chemistry between them is also weak, at some point you wouldn't even want them to be together because it seems to look like a toxic relationship, which includes yang yang patronising her most of the time.

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