Completed
Just Ming
0 people found this review helpful
Oct 23, 2023
36 of 36 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 9.0
Story 8.5
Acting/Cast 10
Music 8.5
Rewatch Value 8.0

Simple and realistic drama yet emotionally engaging

Story:
The plot is simply slice of life and slow burn romance, around the ups and downs of advertising worker, with addition of their family relationship. Instead, it is the main interest, the realistic side of the story. Made me feel extremely connected and can't stop binge watched it.

Acting:
Gosh, I can't say a lot but imho, every actor give a top notch performance. Can't count how many times I laughed and sobbed when watching those 36 episodes. I have never thought that this drama can be tremendously emotional despite the non melodramatic story. The only negative side of this drama is Jian Bing's sister side story, it felt bland.

Overall:
Not recommended if you want to watch a passionate and sweet romantic drama. But if you like coming of age, light hearted story and spiritual lifting romance, you must watch this. And feel Sheng Yang hangover after that :)

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Ongoing 11/36
___chaman___42z_
14 people found this review helpful
Sep 7, 2023
11 of 36 episodes seen
Ongoing 0
Overall 10
Story 9.5
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10

Xiao Zhan very telanted

first of all i just want to say thank you to the whole crew who made this work come to life.
this drama is healing as it brings joy to one's life and all the actors made their characters come to life, and especially Xiao zhan. while watching Sunshine by myside i feel like i am watching xz's daily life, before he had joined the entertainment industry, interpreting himself and he NAILED IT. he is a hardworking young man who is trying to achieve great things by working very hard. ❤
So far, i just mobe everything about this series and cant wait for the rest of the episodes

Young designer Sheng Yang (Xiao Zhan) meets his longtime idol award-winning director Jian Bing (Bai Baihe). Despite a 10 year age difference he has a strong affection for her and she’s drawn to him as well. He tries to be a little ray of sunshine to brighten her life.
Filmed in the city of Chongking this workplace drama has a movie feel to it. The way it’s shot, the attention to detail, and the great city scapes make for a very artistic urban atmosphere.
In addition to the slice of life story surrounding Sheng Yang and Jian Bing, the drama depicts struggles faced in different generations and stations in life, broaching hot-button issues such as sexism, ageism and bullying.
The acting is natural and on point - cast and crew included seasoned professionals along with fresh faces.
Xiao Zhan is an impressive actor with great range. He has three dramas of different genres in 2023 with three very different characters. The loyal persistent social cow Xiao Chun Sheng, the cool reserved high priest Shi Ying, and now the joyful and warm puppy Sheng Yang. Sheng Yang is so real that after just a few episodes I feel like I know him.
Sunshine By My Side is an interesting and entertaining watch so far. I’m looking forward to seeing how the story unfolds!

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Dropped 26/36
Dori097
1 people found this review helpful
Dec 29, 2023
26 of 36 episodes seen
Dropped 0
Overall 7.5
Story 7.0
Acting/Cast 10
Music 7.0
Rewatch Value 6.0
This review may contain spoilers

Like a sampler... just a foot in the water is fine

I don't have too much to say as I ultimately dropped this drama since the pacing was a little slow/I didn't really care for the story. Nevertheless, I do understand its merit and think that there is a population that will enjoy this drama. If you care for mature, realistic, slow-burn romances, this one is probably for you. If you care for great acting, this is for you too.

I came mostly to just talk about the acting a little. It's fantastic for what it's worth. Xiao Zhan has improved tremendously since I last saw him (I've seen him in, 'The Untamed' and 'The Oath of Love') . His acting has become more and more natural, and it's a pleasure to watch a promising young actor like him. Nothing seems forced, everything seems done right to where it needs to be... it's really wonderful because there's a vitality and spring to it that's difficult to see elsewhere. Just to watch his acting, I'd take a brief look into this show. Bai Baihe was really the star- it's the first time I've seen her, and she's tremendous. Natural, organic, and inspired in her acting, she's definitely the best female lead I've ever seen I daresay. Though she didn't have dramatic scenes, I don't think she needed them for the acting to work; simply micro expressions and her eyes would do.

The acting is really the thing that made me come here : ) Just take a look and you'd see it too. As for whether you like it or not, I think it's rather subjective.

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Dropped 25/36
Suzie Queue
1 people found this review helpful
Oct 8, 2023
25 of 36 episodes seen
Dropped 0
Overall 6.0
Story 5.0
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 6.0
Rewatch Value 4.0
This review may contain spoilers

No Sunshine in Sight

What a boring disappointment! After 25 episodes of waiting for the story to evolve and get to some point, I gave up. There was so much potential with this drama, but it fizzled almost at the start. The story was draggy and uninteresting, even with the various characters who also had potentially good story arcs.

I actually liked the chemistry between the ex-husband and the best friend. They were really meant to be together from the beginning - and so, as annoying as he was, hanging on to the FL, I'm glad they ended up together. Loved the second couple and even the third couple (hockey kids). These three couples contributed all the romance there was to this drama. Up to the 25th episode there was NOTHING between the lead couple, so I couldn't even comment on whether there was chemistry between them or not.

I loved the ML's parents, although their shouting and screaming was very unattractive - but they were refreshing in other ways considering the trope of nosy, overbearing parents who want to run their children's lives in these Chinese dramas.

This was (believe it or not) my first Xiao Zhan drama. He's easy on the eyes, and he was pretty believable and sincere with this character - but there was just no sizzle to keep me interested. I've seen the FL in other dramas, but I was definitely underwhelmed with this one.

36 episodes of a boring, draggy story was too long. TOO LONG! Writers, this was a definite failure even with the valiant efforts by the ensemble of actors. Absolutely no way I'd rewatch this, or recommend it to anyone else - let alone give it a high rating.

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Ongoing 24/36
StrawberryButterfly
0 people found this review helpful
Jan 22, 2024
24 of 36 episodes seen
Ongoing 0
Overall 9.0
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 10

Ya'll don't like anything on this website

Everything is rated so low on this site. This is a very, very good show and I hope people will give it a chance despite the low MDL rating. The show is a well-written and acted slow burn with realistic characters & challenges and really good chemistry between not only the main pairing, but the side pairings as well. The music is good throughout, the pacing of the story is really good, and it brings me the perfect kind of peaceful joy when I watch it.

Please give the show a chance and rate it when you do!
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Completed
BabuS
0 people found this review helpful
Aug 10, 2024
36 of 36 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 9.5
Acting/Cast 9.5
Music 5.0
Rewatch Value 10

Touching story, Bai Bai he acting was very good.

I started liking Bai bai he after watching 36 episodes. Zhu Zhu(Liang Shan) determination to get the true love is very impressive, and his parents performance, especially his father's acting is extraordinary. I can't move my eyes away from every scenes. thanks to the team who has participated to produce the touching drama. Also thanks to the English Subtitle. (but one humble request: Please add English subtitle for the text messages too)
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Completed
GoldenDaydream
0 people found this review helpful
Oct 23, 2024
36 of 36 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 5.0
Story 5.0
Acting/Cast 7.0
Music 5.5
Rewatch Value 1.0

A waste of time, unfortunately

One word: boring. I can’t even call this series predictable because i definitely couldn’t predict/expect it to be so boring. No character development. Superficial relationships with plots that make no sense. I have no complaints about the actors. But their characters were so badly written and and the whole story was so uninteresting that even they couldn’t do a better job even if they tried to. I am a huge fan of Xiao zhan and love him as an actor but even his character was so bland and boring, I just have no words. I didnt even realize how I finished watching the whole thing because the story felt so unfinished, I mean literally nothing happened throughout the series so probably that’s why I was expecting some plot twists towards the end at least. What can I say, if you live any of the actors playing in this drama and have literally nothing better to do with your time you can watch it, I guess. ?

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Ongoing 6/36
tibbar
1 people found this review helpful
Sep 12, 2023
6 of 36 episodes seen
Ongoing 0
Overall 8.0
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 4.0
Rewatch Value 4.0

promising start!

i'm not much of a fan of modern dramas, so it's a pleasant surprise how much i'm enjoying this. the sets are great, especially sheng yang and jian bing's homes, because they have that messy, lived in quality to them, with a realistic balance of decor and clutter, that make the sets come alive and add so much depth to the characters. all of the actors are doing a good job too, from sheng yang's parents to jian bing's husband and the various antagonists in their lives like sheng yang's superior and jian bing's client. not one person is a caricature, except perhaps the intern that has a crush on sheng yang.

another thing that took me by surprise is how feminist this story is (for the time being, at least). jian bing is aloof and not the easiest person to get along with, and i'm glad they've given her something other than that self-sacrificing, bubbly and loving personality that female leads are often saddled with. bai baihe is an excellent actress and her portrayal of jian bing is extremely attractive not in a physical sense but in the sense that we want to keep watching her.

xiao zhan's sheng yang hasn't really had as much development as jian bing yet, but i bet we'll get to see more of his internal struggles etc in the coming episodes.

so if anyone is hesitating to watch this, i definitely recommend giving it a chance.

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Dropped 1/36
ysy0714
3 people found this review helpful
Sep 15, 2023
1 of 36 episodes seen
Dropped 0
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10

Light Up My Life

How do we measure success in life? Is it through one's social status, their accumulation of wealth, or the breadth of their social connections? These are questions that have perplexed individuals for generations, and they are at the heart of the thought-provoking TV drama "Sunshine by My Side." In this series, divorced protagonist Jian Bing and the bewildered Sheng Yang traverse the complex landscape of life, making both erroneous and profoundly rewarding decisions along the way. The show serves as a compelling exploration of the multifaceted nature of success, emphasizing a vital lesson: that embracing self-love paves the path towards love for others.

Set against the backdrop of contemporary urban life, "Sunshine by My Side" unravels a tapestry of personal and interpersonal struggles, presenting an intricate web of family, love, friendship, and individual connections. Through the experiences of Jian Bing and Sheng Yang, viewers are invited to scrutinize their own lives and reassess the determinants of success.

Jian Bing, the divorced protagonist portrayed with striking authenticity by a talented cast member, embodies the imperfect reality of modern life. His journey is marked by unexpected twists and turns, highlighting the notion that life seldom adheres to a predefined trajectory. His early choices may seem misguided, but they ultimately become stepping stones for growth and self-discovery. In Jian Bing, we witness the resilience of the human spirit, as he learns to love and value himself, enabling him to extend that love to others. This central message resonates powerfully with audiences, reminding us all that personal fulfillment is an essential foundation for happiness and meaningful relationships.

On the other hand, Sheng Yang, played with nuanced grace, represents the quintessential individual who grapples with self-doubt and confusion. Her character arc mirrors the lives of many viewers, encapsulating the universal search for purpose and identity. Sheng Yang's experiences illuminate the idea that success is not a one-size-fits-all concept but rather a deeply personal journey. Her evolution from uncertainty to self-assuredness serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring viewers to embark on their own path of self-discovery and self-acceptance.

The drama's portrayal of family dynamics is both poignant and relatable. It navigates the complexities of familial relationships with a delicate touch, demonstrating how the quest for success can strain these bonds. "Sunshine by My Side" encourages viewers to reflect on the significance of family in their own lives, underscoring the importance of maintaining genuine connections amidst life's challenges.

Love and friendship are also integral components of the narrative. The characters' friendships are portrayed as sources of strength and support, reminding us that success is not a solitary endeavor. The rich tapestry of these relationships emphasizes the interconnectedness of human lives and the role of genuine connections in achieving happiness.

Intricately woven into the fabric of "Sunshine by My Side" is the idea that loving oneself is a prerequisite for loving others. This profound message is beautifully illustrated through the characters' personal growth and transformation. As Jian Bing and Sheng Yang learn to embrace their own imperfections and value their self-worth, they discover a newfound capacity to love and support those around them. This theme serves as a powerful reminder to viewers that self-care and self-compassion are not acts of selfishness but essential steps towards building meaningful, fulfilling relationships.

The series' compelling narrative is complemented by stunning cinematography and a captivating soundtrack that enhance the emotional resonance of each scene. The authenticity of the characters' emotions is brought to life through exceptional performances, drawing viewers deeper into their journeys of self-discovery and growth.

In conclusion, "Sunshine by My Side" is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant TV drama that delves into the multifaceted nature of success and self-discovery. Through the journeys of Jian Bing and Sheng Yang, it encourages viewers to reevaluate their own definitions of success and to recognize the paramount importance of self-love in the pursuit of happiness and genuine connections with others. With its compelling storytelling, exceptional performances, and universal themes, "Sunshine by My Side" is a must-watch series that leaves a lasting impression and invites introspection into the choices we make in our own lives.

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Completed
Floriana56
2 people found this review helpful
Sep 18, 2023
36 of 36 episodes seen
Completed 1
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10

Veritiero e Entusiasmante

Trovo che questa serie sia stata molto interessante e accattivante senza perdersi con inutili colpi di scena irrealistici e scadenti. Tutti gli attori ma anche il resto del cast sono stati molto bravi e XZ è stato magistrale. Mi sono molto appassionata alla storia tant’è che ero sempre ansiosa di vedere le puntate successive. Se devo fare un appunto è che nel corso della storia la sceneggiatrice non ha avuto il coraggio di mostrare un bacio appassionato tra i due protagonisti quasi che non fosse opportuno per la differenza d’età. Ma forse non è dipeso da Lei ma si è trattato solo solo una questione di censura … comunque grazie a tutto il cast e la crew per avermi fatto pensare, soffrire, sognare e ridere offrendomi una bellissima rappresentazione della società cinese

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Completed
Hugo Gomes
1 people found this review helpful
Oct 26, 2023
36 of 36 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 4.0
Story 4.0
Acting/Cast 4.0
Music 4.0
Rewatch Value 1.0
This review may contain spoilers

Sunshine by My Side - Uma Desilusão Dramática

"Sunshine by My Side" é um drama chinês que narra a história de Jian Bing, uma renomada diretora de publicidade, e Sheng Yang, um novato na indústria, cujos caminhos se cruzam de forma inesperada em um restaurante. O enredo começa com ambos passando por momentos de desilusão amorosa e, gradualmente, desenvolvendo um vínculo que os leva a uma jornada de crescimento pessoal e um romance em ascensão.

A trama inicialmente promete uma história envolvente, explorando as complexidades dos relacionamentos e o poder de cura do amor. No entanto, à medida que o enredo avança, algumas falhas começam a se tornar evidentes. A revelação dos sentimentos de Sheng Yang por Jian Bing é um ponto de virada que, infelizmente, deixa a desejar. Sua rápida confissão e a razão por trás de seu amor são apresentadas de forma simplista, tornando o desenvolvimento do personagem menos profundo do que o esperado.

Um aspecto que me desapontou é a tentativa de inserir comédia em momentos que exigiam seriedade. A transição abrupta entre uma cena tensa e outra cômica acabou prejudicando o tom geral da narrativa e diminuindo o impacto emocional de certas situações.

A relação entre Jian Bing e Sheng Yang, que inicialmente parecia promissora, começou a mostrar falhas à medida que o drama progredia. A falta de comunicação e a tendência de ambos em esconder problemas um do outro foram aspectos que prejudicaram a representação de um relacionamento saudável.

A objeção da mãe de Sheng Yang ao relacionamento com base em diferenças de idade em vez de status social pareceu um ponto fraco na trama. Essa justificação não se encaixou adequadamente, deixando a motivação do personagem menos coerente.

O ex-marido de Jian Bing, embora tenha trazido conflitos à história, acabou sendo tratado de maneira relativamente branda, o que me decepcionou e queria uma resolução mais satisfatória para essa subtrama. A persistência dele após o divórcio foi frustrante e parecia ilógica, dadas as circunstâncias.

A tentativa de Sheng Yang de iniciar seu próprio negócio, embora pudesse ter sido uma oportunidade de crescimento para o personagem, foi retratada de forma um tanto infantil, o que, em vez de inspirar empatia, resultou em momentos de constrangimento.

Em resumo, "Sunshine by My Side" tem um começo promissor, mas enfrenta desafios à medida que a narrativa avança. Os personagens, suas motivações e a dinâmica do relacionamento central podem não atender totalmente às expectativas do público. Apesar disso, o drama ainda oferece alguns momentos de ternura e crescimento pessoal que podem cativar aqueles que buscam uma história de amor complexa e uma jornada de autodescoberta.

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Completed
jailtonjr
0 people found this review helpful
Oct 15, 2023
36 of 36 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10

Horas que valem apena

Não dá para descrever como esse drama foi bom, a química do casal principal é tamanha que me surpreende, não esperava uma combinação tão perfeita. O drama trouxe realmente a característica de uma pessoa madura, a protagonista é uma das melhores nesse quesito entre os dramas, soube contornar o antigo relacionamento separando do trabalho mesmo sendo sócios, na minha opinião o ex marido precisava nem de final feliz kkkkk. Satisfação imensa a equipe de som, no episódio com chuva a sensação era realmente de que estava escutando em minha casa, a ost principal é excelente.

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Sunshine by My Side (2023) poster

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  • Score: 7.9 (scored by 2,162 users)
  • Ranked: #2818
  • Popularity: #2318
  • Watchers: 7,241

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