I just wanna cry. So disappointed

(If interested in what happened in the novel, I wrote a lengthy recap about the divine temple and his mother, Wu Zhu, Chen PingPing, the emperor and his death, and the ending (last chapter 7). Check the 3 separate comments tagged spoiler)

**
After finishing the last episode of Season 2, I can't help but feel a mix of surprise and disappointment. While I did enjoy some moments, overall, I found myself questioning some of the creative choices and missing the magic of the first season.

Season 1 holds a special place in my heart. It's at the top of my list. I was so invested in it that I ended up reading the novel, which spans 746 chapters and over 5501 pages. To my delight, I discovered that Season 1 stayed true to the novel, accurately portraying the characters and the story. The martial arts scenes were executed well, although not as detailed as the novel, and every character was perfectly cast. Season 1 truly stands out as a masterpiece.

Season 2 sadly did not reach my expectations. Everything was rushed. The arcs completely changed. They were mixed. I did not recognize the main characters like a second prince or the crown prince. The villainess character of the story, the eldest princess, appears only in the last part of the season when she is THE main villain of the story. I am trying to think of one character who did not change, and I found one: Fan Jian, his father. Okay, let's make two, his father-in-law, the prime minister. And three with Da Bao (Kudos for this incredible performance! It's Not easy to play with realism and a simple mind).

Fan Xian character went from being an arrogant mastermind to a submissive, almost tearful figure in the first part of the season. His actions, such as begging and kneeling in front of the emperor, were a far cry from the Fan Xian in the novel. I missed the strategic genius who could outmaneuver his opponents and exploit their weaknesses. Despite the change, he remained lovable, thanks to the acting skills of the ML (Zhang Ruo Yun). I felt relieved that his true personality returned in the last part of Season 2. But it was a little too late; I lost the excitement of watching the drama. Plus, the unnecessary comedic elements introduced by the screenwriter detracted from the season's enjoyment. Even if some, I admit, were funny, it was too much. But too much change, too much difference in personalities. The magic of season 1 was not there.

The last 2 episodes were rushed. And where was the grand apotheosis expected in the last minutes of season 2? Those special moments that ended and left us all on our toes, just like season 1? He got back his zhenqi. So what?

I am SO SO disappointed.

I understand the reasons. The TV producers wanted to create a period romance (A) even though the novel is a period thriller drama (B), so the focus is completely different. The TV producers started with B in season 1 and then switched to A in season 2 with no transition or logic. It was as if season 1 was following the novel, and in season 2, they got inspired but created a brand new storyline. It was brutal.

It was all talk, unnecessary talk, but no action. Where was the tyrannical zhenqi that took a considerable place in the novel? Yes, he touched here and there with his fist to show that his meridians were messing with his body, but no cultivation, practice, or fight except for the big one in the season, which was very well choreographed. But only one? Did the production cut the budget in half? Because that's precisely what I'm thinking after the end of season 2. The teasers/previews were so good, though… *sigh*

Yes, the story is extensive, spanning 746 chapters filled with numerous events, making it challenging to condense into just 3 seasons. I'm perplexed why the first season was a success, but the second season fell short. What could have gone wrong? Did the screenwriter lose his touch or encounter some personal issues? Was it a lack of budget? Was it a change of executive producer? Was it production executives' pressure that led to the decision to rewrite the arcs completely? I ensured that it was the same screenwriter for both seasons, but I'm uncertain about the involvement of the art producer and other staff members. Don't get me wrong, the actors and actresses were equally good in both seasons. It's the material they were given that made season 2 chaotic. Yes, reducing the number of episodes was an issue 46 vers 36. But then why not negotiating a S3 S4 and even S5? S1 was a mega-hit, I cannot believe budget was the issue, was it?

The screenwriter made too many changes to the stories and arcs, which was the main problem. It was like stuffing an elephant into a mouse pit. It just did not work. Events that were supposed to happen at the end of the novel were added in the middle of season 2, such as revealing that the emperor was a grandmaster. I understand that a TV drama differs from a novel and that not everything can be included. I also understand that some characters may be missing, such as Sisi the concubine. However, it felt like the show was all over the place.

I'm grateful I only had to wait 3 months, not 5 years, to watch season 2. I also found a fantastic novel and discovered several talented Chinese actors I now follow. However, I'm disappointed that season 2 didn't have the same "wow" factor for me as season 1.

I didn't notice much effort put into the soundtrack, either. There wasn't much difference in the original soundtrack (OST) except for the generic and epilogue. I even recognized some of the music from season 1. However, one piece of music that I hope never to hear again is the Swiss yodelling. It was used, reused, and overused. One or two good jokes are funny, but several become clownish. I can't forget how the screenwriter mocked Jing Ge, the general of the black guards.

In the drama, there were many inconsistencies and changes in the characters' personalities. For example, Wan’er, who wanted to kill Wu Zhu, the most powerful character, and Cheng Ping Ping, a strong supporter of Fan Xian, became a suspicious foe, even though they are two genius soul mates in the story. Additionally, the second prince turned evil without really taking any action. Many characters needed more screen time for proper understanding. Sweet relationships never developed, such as the first prince (not that I read many in the novel, but after the naive bland outburst at the meal 3+3, I expected to see her again!), the alcoholic empress (invented), and the undeveloped boring and useless Ming episodes(few dozen chapters in the novel). Wu Zhu acting like a crazy robot and demanding assistance from his sister were also confusing. Every single scene was full of confusing moments for me. I wanted to recognize the big moments in the novel, not a poorly executed remake with no depth and no logic. Production should have spent less on the flower's eldest princess and more on martial arts choreography! Where was the magic of the 300 poems? Where was the tension and puzzle of who was a friend and who was a foe? Gone. All gone.

The drama made quite a few changes to the original events. I constantly compared the show to the novel, trying to understand why the screenwriter made such extensive alterations. Some plotlines were easy to follow, while others left me very perplexed. I'm thinking about re-watching this season soon, hoping to gain a new perspective. I'm not entirely convinced, but I'm open to seeing it in a different light.

After reading various reviews and comments, it seems that this season is not universally liked. However, there are also many outstanding reviews. I will check the reviews in a few months when the dust has settled. That will give me a better idea of whether this drama is a success or a failure. Considering there is a season 3 (confirmed during the press conference for season 2), I hope they will make the necessary adjustments!

Until season 3... FL said during her farewell interview that it would be Chapter 7.

S1: chapters 1-2-3-4
S2: inspired by chapters 5-6 (no events or scenes or dialogues seen in drama can be found in the novel)
S3: chapter 7 (lots of martial fights, 2 mega battlefields… hope they'll get the budget!)

Again, if you want to read the spoiler about Fan Xian's mother and the Divine Temple. Check my comments :)

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Great drama. Don't miss it! Beware! Wrong title!

24 episodes 15 minutes each.

I always steer clear of short episodes as I find them too shallow and unfulfilling. However, I recently stumbled upon a teaser of this intriguing drama on YouTube. I watched the first episode and was immediately hooked. Despite the fact that episodes 15 and beyond were not available anywhere else, I subscribed to Youku because I knew I had to watch the full drama - that's how good it is.

Of course, there were some inconsistencies in the story, such as the title of the drama itself. The main character is an eunuch, not a governor, but my guess is that Chinese censorship had a say in it. Even though it's a possible Chinese taboo to imagine an eunuch in love, this drama managed to execute the plot without making it feel cheap or tacky. The actors were brilliant and the storyline was captivating - I couldn't ask for more from a drama.

In conclusion, I highly recommend this drama to anyone who wants to watch something that is well-produced and engaging.

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Beautiful first love sweet story... Like a fairytale everyone wished to have

Hold on to your seats because I've got to tell you about this drama that blew my mind! I mean, Rosy Zhao's performance was out of this world, and her physical transformations were so on point that I had to do a double-take. From a teenager to a young adult, she crushed every single aspect of her character's portrayal.

And let's not forget about the electrifying chemistry between the two leads - it was absolutely off the charts! Their on-screen relationship was so genuine that I felt like I was watching real life unfold right before my very eyes. I can confidently say that this drama has earned a spot in my top three list of must-watch dramas, and I'm sure it will have the same effect on you too, regardless of your age.

The entire cast was spot on, and each member brought their A-game to the table. The actress who played the protagonist's mother was particularly impressive, and I was blown away by her talent.

In conclusion, I urge you to watch this drama if you're looking for a heartwarming, feel-good story that will leave you with a smile on your face and a sense of nostalgia. Trust me when I say that you won't regret giving this drama a chance - it's a must-watch that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish!

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Perfection, even if season 1 ends dramatically.

Yeah, yeah, another fan is writing a review and rambling about it. lol

ETA: this review was written before season 2 was aired.

*Story*

I was thoroughly engrossed in this drama. The storyline was captivating, and its ability to hold my attention was unparalleled. Each episode was masterfully crafted to add mystery and intensity to the plot, leaving me on the edge of my seat, eagerly anticipating what would happen next. I was so invested in the characters and the story that I binge-watched all 46 episodes in one go, completely glued to my screen.

This drama is a true masterpiece, encompassing all the necessary elements to make it a thrilling experience. From the complex and intriguing plot to the romantic subplots that will leave you breathless, from the gripping drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat to the humorous moments that will lighten up the atmosphere - this drama has it all. It is a perfect blend of various emotions and genres that will keep you hooked and entertained from start to finish.

*memorable scene*

- 100 Poems Night ep 27

*Casting*

ML was fantastic! His acting skills were undeniably remarkable, and he portrayed his character with wit, humour, intelligence, and an overall lovable personality. All the other actors and actresses were equally impressive, but I must give a special mention to the Emperor, who was simply outstanding. From the beginning, I knew that he was undoubtedly the protagonist's father, and his objectives were to test him to be his successor. That's my take on Season 2 anyway, and I can't wait to see how the story unfolds. I must also highlight the exceptional performance of the child who played the lead role. Wow. Just wow.

Season 1 of "Joy of Life" was broadcast in 2019, the same year as "The Untamed," which starred Xiao Zhan. Although I adored him in "The Untamed," I must say that I wasn't as impressed with his character in "Joy of Life." Perhaps it's because his role didn't allow him to shine as much, and his supporting role as a villain didn't help matters either. His character never allowed him to smile, and we know his smile is his trademark. Rumours are he has been replaced for Season 2, but we'll have to wait and see.

*Director, production*

An exceptional drama encompasses a variety of important factors. First and foremost, a great script is essential to hook the audience and keep them engaged throughout the storyline. The right actors and actresses are also crucial, as they bring the characters to life and add depth to the drama. A budget that allows for wow factors such as stunning costumes, an impressive movie set, special effects, lot of extras and martial arts choreography can also elevate the drama to the next level.

However, even with all of these elements in place, the drama can still fall flat without a clear vision from the director. The director's vision must be cohesive and consistent throughout the drama to ensure that everything comes together seamlessly. Additionally, edits must be done with precision and skill to avoid any jarring or disjointed transitions. With all of these factors working in harmony, an exceptional drama can be created that captivates and enthralls its audience.

*Love story*

The drama's plot does not revolve around romance, but the main lead (ML) falls in love with a beautiful young girl at first sight. After a few misunderstandings, they get engaged. Amidst political challenges, the girl becomes part of a small circle of people that ML trusts. However, hints dropped in season 1 suggest that the story will not have a happy ending and that the martial artist QI girl (Haintang) will play a significant role in the romantic aspect of the drama. This is my interpretation, but nothing is confirmed. It is obvious to me that the emperor of Qi is a woman. I am wondering the story behind this. Rumors say there is more to her and ML.

This drama is not centred around love. Love is only a political accessory. So, it will be interesting to see this part unfold in the next three seasons, which is a trilogy.

*music*

Once in a while, a drama produces music that I become obsessed with. It happened with “Eternal Love”, “Faith”, “Love like the Galaxy”… and “Timeless” sung by Xiao Zhan. I had no idea the images were from Joy of Life. This clip video is a masterpiece, plain and simple.

*cons, inconsistencies*

In my opinion, the modern-day part where the guy explains his story and the last part when we are back to the modern days were completely unnecessary and added nothing to the storyline. His character is already established as an anomaly due to his mother coming from an advanced technology society. Therefore, his genius intelligence, his knowledge to be out of time and place and photographic memory can be easily explained.

*special effects, martial arts choreography*

The drama was aesthetically pleasing and visually engaging. However, I noticed that there were instances where the edits were not perfectly synchronized, and it seemed like multiple takes were needed to achieve the desired outcome. Despite this, I still believe the overall production was very well executed and enjoyable to watch.

The sheer magnitude of the budget allocated to this drama is evident in every frame. The attention to detail is impeccable, and nothing seems to be done in a rushed or haphazard manner. The presence of numerous extras in almost every scene adds to the authenticity of the drama and makes it feel more genuine and immersive. Overall, it is a testament to the high production values and the filmmakers' commitment to delivering a top-notch viewing experience.

*how I understand the story but primarily questions*

The clues are scattered and plentiful, enough to keep me on edge and make me wonder about what, when, how, and who.

**His mother: how and why did she leave her world? I assume she escaped something or somebody. She went with a destructive firearm of mass destruction. Why? Why did she leave to find the blind martial artist? She seems to know the past and future. Who killed her? Was she captured by her own world people?

**Blind martial artist: he lost his memory, but everything in him looks like a robot. Is he from his mother's world? Who is he?

**Clues: His mother's book allows people to become grandmasters, the highest level a martial practitioner can reach. Where is this book? His mother explained the Ice Age and the circle of life with the return of the feudal era. How did ML know all these poems? Where did he read them? How did he get all the past knowledge?

**Divine temple: how does the wheeling chair villain know this place? What was his relationship with his mother? Did he kill her and why?

**3 amigos: emperor, wheelchair villain and adopting father… they seemed very close friends in their youth, then his mother married the prince next to be emperor. They seemed to have made a pact of silence

*Conclusion*

I recently watched the trailer for the second season, and we are in for another great ride. However, I also anticipate another bittersweet ending that will lead to the third season (nothing confirmed yet, my own assumption ). Despite my preference for happy endings, I am willing to make an exception for this show, which I consider a true masterpiece.

As someone who recently watched the first season of this drama, I consider myself lucky that I did not have to wait for five long years for the second season. According to rumours, the second season is set to be aired in mid-2024, which is quite a long time from now. However, I can confidently say that this drama is one of the best out there and is worth the wait. The plot, the characters, and the overall production are all top-notch, making it memorable and highly recommended for anyone who loves dramas. In fact, I would even say it's a must-watch and rewatch for anyone who enjoys good storytelling and quality entertainment.

If you want to read my review about season 2: https://mydramalist.com/54083-joy-of-life-season-2

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Avoid!

I'm sorry to say this, but there is simply nothing positive to highlight about this. In my honest opinion, this is one of the worst dramas I have ever watched. The cast may have gotten paid, but that's about the only consolation. It's clear that the scriptwriter and director were not up to par, as the characters come off as childish and immature. And don't even get me started on the casting choices - who in their right mind thought it was a good idea to cast an aunt who looks like a disguised teenager?

I strongly advise against wasting your time on this one. The script is horrendous, the cast is subpar, the plot is messy, the chemistry between the characters is non-existent, and there is no happy ending to make up for it

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Somehow better after a re-watch

I completely agree with most reviewers who have criticized the show's script. It was difficult to put the dots on i, lacking coherence and essential parts to make the story understandable.

I thought at first it was the actor's, Zheng Ye Cheng's, fault but then I watched a couple of behind-the-scenes clips and concluded that Zhao Lu Si and Zheng Ye Cheng had incredible chemistry which doesn't surprise me because every male partner she worked with and loved her. She is funny and natural. It was clear as day they liked each other. This reminds me that I need to change my review of the drama “Under the Power”: the issue was never Zheng Ye Cheng, it was the actress and the script/director. Anyway, “Love in a Thousand Years” was good but it could have been THE drama of the year with better edits.

I had to wait for many episodes to understand he saw her die and be reborn 10 times within a thousand years. It took me many episodes to grasp that he loved her but didn't want to force her to reciprocate his feelings; hence, he became her protector. But even then, it was a struggle to understand. His constant smirking was bewildering until I realized it was an immortal's indulgence towards his beloved mortal.

I think the part that was terribly edited was the transition from new face up to immortal mountain. I needed more from the immortal who helped her, why did he changed his mind, how did she learn magic, etc. What happened during those 3 years was missing and this was important enough that I would have understood better the story.

The sudden shift in Lusi Zhao's character's love interest without any discernible transition only served to highlight the poor writing of the script. While the idea of true love spanning a thousand years and the protagonist waiting for his love interest to be reborn multiple times was intriguing, the sudden change of heart was utterly inexplicable.

On a positive note, the chemistry between the actors was very good. All the actors were good though. I like both main leaders. I follow their career close.

So yes, I recommend this drama but keep in mind that the script is unclear and it will take time to understand the full story.

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87 episodes of pure delight

It is unfortunate to reflect on the decision made by the National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) in February 2020 to limit Chinese television dramas to a maximum of 40 episodes. The NRTA even "encouraged" producers to aim for fewer than 30 episodes. As a result, many pending drama approvals had to be cut, reworked, or delayed indefinitely, affecting their potential airing. This restriction often compromised the depth of the scripts originally designed for longer formats, leaving viewers puzzled and dissatisfied with the outcomes.

That being said, this drama aired in 2018 is a gem with its 87 episodes. I could probably leave my review at that, but where's the fun in brevity?

This particular drama is a masterpiece across all facets of production. The casting is impeccable, the storyline is captivating, the costumes are beautifully crafted, the directing is top-notch, and the post-production quality is remarkable. Every element of drama creation seems to have been meticulously considered and executed.

I re-watched the ending multiple times, along with several other poignant scenes. Is it a sad ending? Absolutely. Given my usual aversion to bittersweet and sorrowful conclusions, I was initially put off. However, upon reflection, I believe that had it concluded differently, it would not have justified the complex narrative surrounding an emperor, his beloved empress, and a multitude of concubines.

I can watch teasers, videos, and clips thanks to the YouTube platform. Without this platform, I will and would have missed many great dramas. This includes this drama.

This drama is certainly not for everyone. If you strongly dislike themes of polygamy, a dominant and jealous emperor, or vengeful women caught in palace intrigues, this might not be the show for you, even if the villains get caught. It’s best for those who appreciate ancient Chinese historical dramas rich in emotion and woven with intricate love stories, even if they culminate in heartache.

As I delved into the narrative, I was thoroughly fascinated by the inner workings of palace life—the roles of eunuchs and maids and the often-strict imperial rules. Each detail contributed to creating a vivid tapestry of life in that era.

The drama explored every facets of love, lust, jealousy, insecurities, hate, indifference, forgiveness, revenge… you name it.

On a side note, I've observed a remarkable trend of extraordinary historical dramas released in 2017 and 2018. I can only attribute this surge to the incredible talent of the young actors and actresses who were beginning their careers back then, ranging from ages 22 to 25. Today, we consider them seasoned performers, but their body of work from that period speaks volumes about their potential and skill. Truly incredible.

Kudos to actress Zhou Xun, actor Wallace Huo, and actress Ning Chang (who often plays villainous roles). There are also many great actors like Lin Qin (from "Princess Agents" and "Joy of Life") and Xin Zhi Lei (from "Joy of Life"). Additionally, we can't forget the other villains, such as Li Chun and He Hong Shan, along with hundreds of other perfectly cast actors and actresses.

Kudos to the costume designers and the hundreds of 'hands' who created them. The same goes for hairdressers and makeup artists.

So, out of the hundreds of dramas available, don't miss this one if you like costume palace dramas.

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Pale copy of the story of Ming Lan…

I'm a bit disappointed. I expected more.

I love seasoned actors. Sadly I found another copy of the actor Allen—good actor who is unable to play romance and lack chemistry with his partner. They both had in common the same female lead. I am not sure if they are all unlucky to parter them, if it is the script or director or if they are unable to act romantic scenes. They are all good but not together.

After Under the Power, I gave her another chance. Indeed, it was much better. I was spared with another childish female lead… Instead, we got a femalee victim bullied by everyone for over 11 episodes. Glad it said it was a work of fiction each intro of each episode because it was completely irrealistic.

Post edits production is poorly executed. Missing major scenes that explained behavior and actions. Terrible.

In Episode 12, the main character insists she knows what to do but is constantly bullied. No backbone. It takes too long to to see her defended by her husband. They cut few important scenes, yet kept redundantones. The drama revolves around villains. Each 3 concubines, the old matriarch, the sister in law, the sisters. Except 1 maid, all women are villains. The only trustedperson is of course her maid telling her that being passive is worse., but she prefers to be a victim and claims she doesn't care. I really dislike her attitude, so I skipped many useless conversations.

To summarize, the male lead slept with two concubines and his ex-wife. He has two kids, and one concubine lost a child during childbirth. Then he lost physical interest to all because he could not stand women in general and their pettiness. He always feels guilty for mistreating the heroine, yet never asserts himself. I understand the matriarch is the queen of any Chinese family, but the romance was still not visible before episode 35.

It got better when he realized he fell for her around episode 15. But because she is a prude virgin, he never crossed the line… with his wife. Typically, the Chinese were seeing the collar skin is considered erotic. (rolling eyes) As if a married man did not sleep with his wife for years.

In Episode 21, the matriarch said she was upset with the concubine, Qiao, but the scene was cut in production, so it's unclear what she was referring to. Then the male lead spent an hour in the favorite concubine's bedroom as per the servant. This raises the question of whether he had sex with her as a birthday present. Additionally, the female lead said that the male lead gave his heart and she will give hers, but it's unclear when this happened. Furthermore, he slept with the concubine despite this. It all seems very inconsistent. The cuts in scenes seem unprofessional. They wanted to reduce the number of episodes, but at times, it made no sense.

Another thing that deserves its own paragraph… when FL married ML, his sister in law was pregnant. It is said numerous times that FL spent 2 years since her arrival. Ahem. 2 years pregnancy? The scriptwriter is plain stupid. That's the only explanation.

Compared to the story of Ming Lan, this drama is average. The storyline focuses on how to bully as much as possible and how the villains are rewarded. Like a few others here, I also do not see the chemistry between the main couple. He reminds me of Allen. He's a good actor, but he should never be cast in a romance drama.

The romance between the main couple is based on trust and honesty. I'm not sure if bumping into someone or falling physically due to bumpy roads or missed steps can be the big love revelation, but it seems to be in this drama. "I touched you by accident, and then I must be falling in love" - it's all quite ridiculous.

The drama is watchable, but annoying. I am not impressed with the direction/post production in general. It was poorly executed. Amateurs.

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Nope. Don't waste your time

I mistakenly believed that the drama was an Academy Martial Arts drama, but it turned out to be far from it. The plot is needlessly ridiculous, the cast is below average, and the conclusion is utterly disappointing.

The storyline about a girl searching for her origins is overshadowed by a ridiculous love triangle between two guys and herself, where none of them seem to be genuinely in love with each other. The way I interpreted it was one guy had a crush on both male and female but because of the Chinese censor it is just blurred. However, many jealous scenes suggest he wanted the other guy's attention. The girl went back and forth but kept them both in the friend zone. No happy ending, no love story. A possible threesome or just friendship.

But that's not the worst part. The master is a joke, and the villains are laughable. And don't even get me started on the annoying sound effects that include stomach growling, footsteps, and eating noises. I mean, seriously, who wants to listen to that?

Trust me, don't waste your time watching this mess. It's a bad idea, and you'll regret it.

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Beautiful love story with a man not a boy!

I found this drama to be relatively short compared to others, which is just right. I cannot stand it when scriptwriters add redundant episodes just to drag out the storyline without bringing anything new to the plot. Thankfully, this drama had only 22 episodes.

The love story in this drama started early on, which I absolutely loved. However, I must say that the male lead's charming looks and masculine personality were the main reasons that kept me interested. If it weren't for him, I'm not sure I would have continued watching.

The chemistry between the main leads was good but not awe-inspiring. The female lead, although a decent actress in this drama, was forgettable in my opinion. However, I could feel the passion between the two characters, which is what I really enjoyed about this love story.

There were times when the plot felt rushed and lacked dialogue or explanation. I found myself wondering if I had missed an episode because of the sudden changes in storylines. For example, why did the female lead lie to the male lead and reject him about her forced marriage? Why did she suddenly refuse to give him her forever because of her mother when she was ready to do so in the first five episodes? How did she learn that he was in jail? Why did she visit her father and let him talk? The inconsistencies in the script made it seem like a teen had written it, which was a pity because it had the potential to be a fantastic drama.

The music was not memorable but suited the drama well. I'm glad that the scriptwriters did not add any unnecessary sound effects, except for the sound of crickets chirping to indicate nighttime.

As for the epilogue, I found it ridiculous. The kid is about 5-6 years old, and the female lead is joking that he had no interest in her since his birth? Seriously? Overall, despite the flaws, I think I will add this drama to my rewatch list just for the pleasure of seeing the male lead, Zheng Ye Cheng.

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Outstanding performances and a remarkable production of a contemporary drama.

I came across a teaser on YouTube, then searched on MDL for where to watch it, and voila! I decided to give it a try mostly because I really like the lead actor. I discovered him in the story of MingLan and have never looked back since. He is a very talented actor.

I am generally not fond of modern dramas. First, many of them often start with a woman who is bullied by her family, colleagues, or peers at school. Typically, it takes more than half the series for the female lead to get her revenge, only to end up falling for another man while the initial cheater or villain regrets their actions eternally. It's the same old story.

However, because this particular actor was in it, I decided to give it a try, and it turned out to be a good choice.

The drama "Married" does have the classic elements of ‘mistress’ and ‘cheating,’ which are necessary to drive the plot. What makes this story stand out is that it portrays a believable narrative. The characters aren’t strictly good or bad; they are a mix of both.

The central theme is that many women will resonate with the female lead — an ambitious and talented woman who left everything behind when she married an equally ambitious and talented man who ultimately succeeded in his career. It touches on the stereotype of married women who are expected to stay home and raise children. Of course, there’s the typical wake-up call after five to ten years when the husband neglects his wife, leading to the discovery of the ambitious and beautiful mistress working alongside him.

This storyline corresponds with the experiences or feelings of many women, capturing their pride and struggles.

The story is well-constructed and well-acted from beginning to end. One memorable scene is when the husband is released from jail and spends time with his son, and they both cry in each other's arms. He realizes, too late, just how much he missed, and how much his ex-wife sacrificed and loved him and their son.

Again, it's a stereotypical narrative, but the ending was not the happy conclusion everyone might have expected.

(Spoilers)

The couple remained divorced but reached a compromise for the sake of their son. He gave all his shares to his ex-wife to support her in remaining the CEO. He broke up with his mistress for good, recognizing that the age gap and her ambitions did not align with what he wanted for his new life. He became a devoted father and returned to the company, but as a creator rather than the CEO. Meanwhile, his ex-wife managed to balance work and personal life and realized she was falling in love again with another man.

In the end, everyone found peace and moved on, which is often what happens after a divorce.

I definitely recommend this drama!

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This is a truly believable age-gap love story.

I firmly believe that whether one likes or dislikes an age gap in a relationship is subjective and depends on one's age, life experience, and physical attraction. In the specific case of this drama, Zhao Lusi's youthful and vivacious character with a high-pitched voice is paired with a mature and older male character, creating an alluring contrast. I thoroughly enjoyed watching this drama but understand that individual preferences may vary.

I absolutely adore characters that are absolute geniuses in their respective fields. It's a pure delight to watch them in action. And there's nothing quite like a drama that features a genius chef and a brilliant businessman defying all odds, including social class and age difference, to fall deeply in love with each other. It's a perfect story that leaves me absolutely spellbound.

I absolutely maintain that a better-looking or more attractive male lead would have been a grave mistake in casting, and would have detracted from the authenticity of the story. It's a well-known fact that businessmen generally don't achieve success at a young age, and how many of them are really model-worthy? I can't think of a single one. So, in my opinion, the casting was spot-on.

Although ML was not conventionally attractive, it does not mean that he was unattractive. He just did not fit the typical male actor look that we usually see paired with Rosy Zhao. I must say, I found it incredibly refreshing and completely believable.

I want to give a special mention to the uncle character who was portrayed as a straight guy (thanks to the Chinese censorship who forbid lgbt+ charactes in dramas) but had all the mannerisms of a gay man. He was absolutely hilarious.

Overall, it was an excellent drama that I'll definitely watch again with pleasure.

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A cute college drama

I believe it's important to avoid jumping to conclusions.. It's easy to watch a few college dramas and make assumptions, but that doesn't make them accurate. Let's strive to be more discerning and informed before drawing comparisons and forming opinions. If the dramas have a similar storyline or the story from the same book/author, that's one thing, but if they are completely dissimilar in terms of plot and cast, then it's misleading for people to base their reviews on such comparisons.

With that being said, I loved this drama. Initially, I had my doubts about the female lead's appearance, but as the show progressed, I found myself growing fond of her cross-genre character.

The five main actors in the drama were fantastic. However, I did find one of them quite confusing at first. He seemed like a bodyguard in disguise, but then it hit me – the so-called "bad boy" with a golden heart.

The drama had its fair share of cliches, such as the villains, the mean twins, the jealous brother, and the naive young girl falling for the girl disguised as a boy. And let's not forget the female killer spy prostitute and the boy falling for the boy who is a girl. Despite all of this, I found the drama to be highly entertaining.

One thing that did bother me was the use of sound effects, such as crickets to indicate night-time and crows to amplify awkward moments. It all seemed a bit childish to me, but I understand that this drama is aimed at Asian teenagers, and cultural differences may play a role in this.

Adding eyeshadow on the disguised man by the makeup artist was a poor choice that did not add any value. It only served as a distraction and made the entire look unconvincing. Such unwise decisions need to be avoided and not encouraged.

Let's take a moment to recognize the tireless efforts of crickets, who are often called upon to provide background noise during night scenes or to enhance the mood of an awkward scene. It's easy to forget the burden they carry as they jump from one task to another. Let's show some empathy for these little creatures. Let us extend a special word of encouragement to our feathered friends as well, the ducks, crows, and birdies. May they find the strength and resilience to thrive in their drama script environment. :D

While the credibility of the show may be debated, I found it to be quite entertaining. Despite a few inconsistencies in episodes 16 and 17 (War), I was able to overlook them as my expectations were not very high when I started watching.

Overall, I found the pace of the drama to be quick enough to keep me interested. Normally, I tend to lose interest around mid-season, but this drama was cute enough to keep me hooked. There were also a few funny moments which added to my enjoyment.

In conclusion, I would say that this is a good drama, despite its flaws.

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Great suspenseful drama

The drama is excellent and kept me on my toes from the beginning. The pace is quick, and the heroes are both exciting and lovable. While every episode up to 16 provided some clues, they were never enough to guess who the heroine's family was and where the hero's father could be. However, it was clear from the little clues that she was not a peasant and could marry her prince.

Despite all this, I must point out that the director and scriptwriter are to blame for many stupid acting choices, such as the bang on the door and the plant sent to the villain or the lousy eunuch's crazy acting with his two sidekicks and the brother repeatedly insisted that sharing important information was too complicated. These little things were very childish and spoiled an otherwise excellent drama.

I found the heroine's competence and the non-genre bias to give her the coroner position to be the most enjoyable aspects of the story. Though unrealistic, it still pleased me. However, I couldn't help but feel very annoyed by the main female lead's blind trust and submissive attitude. I have to be honest, I disliked her. Despite being good at her job as a coroner, her character adds no value to the drama. Her personality is dull and irritating. I strongly believe that she lacked the necessary confidence, charisma, and maturity for the role. Despite possessing acting talent, she came across as too infatuated with her pop artist idol at first sight and lacked the required edge. Therefore, I believe that casting her was not the right decision.

Let's be clear, If you're looking for a love story, look elsewhere because this drama doesn't deliver. The main couple lacks chemistry completely. However, the second couple is much more believable—the main plot centers around two opposing sides in a fierce battle. One group intends to take over the throne and dethrone the Emperor, while the other is determined to stop them at any cost.

I found the reconstitution of scenes and multiple-camera shots highly effective in providing a better perspective, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The drama director presented the audience with an incredibly captivating view. The music was frequently disruptive and bothersome. The way the story ended left me feeling disappointed. After all the ups and downs, the final two minutes seemed out of place and didn't quite fit the rest of the plot. It was like a sudden change in tone that took away from the overall experience.

ML episode 32 deserves a standing ovation for his exceptional acting. The casting team missed a big opportunity by not choosing another female lead to showcase the actor's talent. It's a shame because it would have added more highlights to the movie. On the other hand, the performance of the evil eunuch was outstanding and cannot be overlooked.

I must emphasize that the generic first season used here is simply outstanding. It has a striking resemblance to the iconic Game of Thrones. This is a job very well executed!

Overall, it is a good drama if you do not expect a love story.

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Great with a but….

Let me tell you my opinion on this drama. The storyline is divided into three parts: falling in love, death, and rebirth. The male lead may not be conventionally handsome, but he fits his character well. However, it was the second male villain lead who stole the show with his pure and tragic love. The female lead, Ni Ni, is perfect.

I found the third part of the story unnecessarily long and skipped parts after episode 55. But the first part, which focused on love, was my favorite.
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I must say, Nini is an extraordinary, gorgeous, talented actress. While some may compare this drama to eternal love, I believe it's like comparing apples to oranges. Despite the director's penchant for peach trees and wine, the storyline is entirely different. Gods and goddesses were very different too.

This is a memorable drama. I am trying to figure out why people compare this show so much with eternal love, but I see two distinct stories. It is as if we say all dramas are the same because of some similarities. If so, all costume dramas are the same.

I was completely invested in the story until the very end. However, I strongly feel that the constant introduction of villains has become tiresome. Additionally, the plotline involving the girl who left for the demon tower and returned as a general killed numerous immortals, and yet survived, was beyond ridiculous. The story could have been improved with a more realistic and believable portrayal of events.

Although I'm grateful to the scriptwriters for providing a happy ending, I can't help but feel that the lack of explanation for the protagonist's return after 300 years falls short of my expectations.

The demise of the female lead character, followed by her rebirth, left me feeling uneasy. Although I understood the reasoning behind it, I couldn't shake the feeling that killing her just to bring her back again seemed morally questionable. Additionally, the genuine love the villain had for her only added to the tragedy of the situation. In my opinion, an alternate ending that allowed for a reunion of the two lovers after death would have been much more satisfying. Admittedly, I may have taken some creative liberties with the storyline, but I couldn't help but root for the secondary male character to find love and happiness in the end.

The costume designers deserve immense praise for their outstanding work. The costumes were stunning and added an incredible dimension to the overall experience. Let's give a round of applause to all the support roles, they truly deserve it!

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