Sunbath12

Yeah, it's finally coming together a bit. I think the opening case was really not the greatest way to introduce our main cast.

The script plays it safe and definitely smoothes over what was certainly not a solely pure motive for unifying the lands. Still, a worthy historical epic - and I got to learn about some figures I didn't really know before.

It has taken about 9 episodes for me to enter into this story - which is too long. However, I'm willing to see if things can build to the end.

I believe his uncle (Taizhen’s brother) knows because he’s the one that suggested the young heir take him in. But you may be right that Hongchu the King doesn’t know.

If you love history, this is a great one that explores a not often explored era in Chinese history (Five Dynasties and 10 Kingdoms). There is a lot of detail in the dialogue and scenes (discussing politics and the day to day matters of government), which may be too much for a casual viewer. But it’s epic (battles, court intrigue, all of that) and well acted for the most part.

I think the climax is pretty good too toward the end, leaves you wanting more.

Ugh, why did they leave that young, naive young man with that shifty old general?!

I think if you can get past the first 3 episodes, it gets better.

I think this is my main struggles with watching the show - and perhaps one of its main writing challenges. While it’s great to see an often overlooked period and kingdom (Wuyue) explored, gosh it’s really Zhao Kuangyin that I keep wanting to watch in this second half. But it’s not to mean the Wuyue actors or storyline have been terrible, far from it.

I hope The Legend of Rosy Clouds comes out soon - that'll probably be the next drama we'll get to see of his.

Small note: it's fun seeing the evolution of attire as we approach the Song dynasty.

Man is a legend.

It will get easier as you go.

Get ready, Weibo Night has started:
https://x.com/kpopsmileshop1/status/2019241668252430419

Some may find these parts slow, but I quite like watching the scenes depicting the more "boring" or tedious side of governance. It is these people - the ones faithfully counting every expense, recording them and being diligent in their tasks that make our governments run on a daily basis.

Then you have the self-serving people in the shadows (literally these scenes are full of shadows with the lighting - don't think that's unintentional) plotting to get something for themselves. Such was mankind before and today - and tomorrow?

I wonder if it is indeed true they haven’t found the ML yet, or if they are just keeping it ultra secret.

Indeed, human nature has not changed these thousands of years.

As a longtime fan of historical dramas, I’ve been generally really enjoying this so far. And may I just say, that opening title song is super catchy and stuck in my head.

He’s like a stand-in for the audience. Like, “huh? Please explain to us mere commoners lacking in 4D chess skills.” 😂

I wouldn’t worry too much, friend. He’s now more careful with choosing his projects - and he’s not lacking in scripts offered from what I can tell. I’m sure he will film something later this year, we’ll just have to wait.

The industry in China of late seems to make things a popularity contest instead of focusing on crafting good works, which is a shame in my opinion for all the hardworking actors, etc that just want to play meaningful roles.