it already broke out last June and then got revived a couple of days ago because a usually accurate melon owner…
I can relate. That's why generally I prefer the movie format (shame it's so hard to find a good one these days 😭). There is an elegance and real skill in crafting a detailed and engrossing visual story within the confines of a few hours maximum.
Long-form dramas are hit-and-miss. I'll always give them kudos when they pull it off, but so many get a little (or a lot) wayward / lost. Take TPOB, for example. The start of that drama had me thinking this may be the best blend of SB romance and political drama I've ever seen. It was so tightly woven together. Every early decision was made with these dual layers in mind. The implications for the individual, the implications for the collective. It was absolutely enthralling. Then, as the drama progressed, it got lost and took shortcuts with other important aspects of the story. While the first leads played an intense game of romantic and political chess in an attempt to win trust, sway opinion, and build a powerful partnership. The second ML hastily wins the trust of the military he seeks to command by essentially winning a bar fight. And, our villains are so woefully neglected that it is impossible to see them as a credible threat. The rule of thumb should always be to establish your villains, like a good tennis match, and have them win a number of rounds / sets. If you have them lose in a humiliating fashion, over and over again, their credibility gets destroyed.
Ultimately, two common problems with long-form are that, firstly, there is often too much space to fill, and secondly, the writers are often fooled into thinking they have more room to work with than they actually do. So, you get an extreme focus and development in some areas, but underdevelopment in other areas as they realise they are running out of space to fit it all in.
TWD irked many due to that early usage of the old poison trope. However, it redeemed itself spectacularly with how it tied that trope in to the story, making it a crucial component in the finale. I think it will be forever underrated due to that aspect. You go from "Not this again" to "That was actually quite clever and well done." But, I wouldn't be surprised if some dropped it because of that factor.
You're right, it did also deprive us of seeing him unleashed. That intense, physical, and athletic Xingyue we had been hoping to see didn't really manifest. We did get to admire his skills in portraying the sickly and weak though. He's very good at it. Lol. I believe LIRD will finally give us what we want. He looked heroic and authoritative in those reuters.
Nice comparisons (I just watched Beloved 👍). Yes, the consensus seems to be that YZ is great for kickstarting a career, but then it begins to plateau, and it's better for your career to move on.
NOTE: Older daily REUTERS collections can be found on this page under the SPOILER tag. Just look for my profile name 😁. If you are curious about the ATMOSPHERE on-set, please take a look 👍...
~ War Horse Edition ~
✨(NEW)✨ 💙Neo💙 smiling and laughing 🤭😄 while talking to ♥️AiMi♥️ backstage 💕💕...
(NEW) STUNNING VISUAL 🥰. 💙Neo💙 from atop of his horse 🐎 leans forward to allow ♥️AiMi♥️ to gently tie her red ribbon 🎀 around him and cover his eyes 🔥🔥🔥...
(NEW) ♥️AiMi♥️ rehearses a beautiful scene with 💙Neo💙 where she appears to either adjusted his hair or caress his face 🥰. Director GYJ / GYC can be seen intructing 📣🎬...
Those little strands of hair may look really good 💞🔥, but there is no doubt they tickle and irritate the face 😤. 💙Neo💙 does his best to combat this 🤭...
Tough to say from the reuters. In some clips, he appears to be on good terms with the leads. In others, he clearly seems to be against them. Of course, we've all seen the trope where they act out an elaborate deception to lure someone out into the open. So, that's a possibility. And, it could indeed be that Riley's role is that of the obsessed third-wheel.
I'll see what I can find to add to the above. That long montage is a great find!Peter Ho at last! Xie Huaigui…
Nice find. I remember seeing PH in TPOB. I'm just about to add some more updates now. I got distracted by a certain news story today, so I'm a little late posting reuters.
NOTE: Older daily REUTERS collections can be found on this page under the SPOILER tag. Just look for my profile name 😁. If you are curious about the ATMOSPHERE on-set, please take a look 👍...
~ Things Are Heating Up Edition ~
11th (NEW) ...
💙Neo💙 holds ♥️AiMi♥️ up as she exits the carriage and gives her what looks to be a reminder or warning ⚠️. She doesn't seem happy 😤 about it 🎬🎭...
FOCUS ON ACTING🎭. A terrific video that joins together multiple clips to form a complete sequence 👌. It's 💙Neo💙 focused showcasing his performance in these scenes, but with the ♥️ AiMi♥️ clip from below also included 🔥🔥🔥...
Candid capture 📽️. Fun on-set while filming a scene where 🖤Riley🖤 holds ♥️ AiMi♥️ hostage and points his weapon directly at 💙Neo💙 who has come to rescue her 💔...
it already broke out last June and then got revived a couple of days ago because a usually accurate melon owner…
The comparison, at least so far, should only be used to highlight how the heavy focus on the FLs could indeed work, and work well. But, ultimately, it just doesn't here. They're a bit of a dull bunch atm. It feels like I got swindled by the shorts. I'll try my best to persevere and complete it. Lol. Tbf, I don't drop shows often. I just chip away at the slower ones. I mean, it's not like I'll forget some important details if I pause or put the drama down and come back to it later. There haven't been any important details. If I make it to the end, I'll let you know if PM redeems itself after the agonisingly slow start.
Yes, by contrast, MLC gets it so right that even if what you are watching at times could be considered filler, you don't notice it because that trio was just so good together onscreen.
We definitely share similar viewing habits 😁. WAB looks like a really good one. Those Light On crime dramas, and other small crowd (at least on MDL) dramas of varying genres are what keep me sane and recharged. You get such a good return out of them in terms of quality and enjoyment. That way, it keeps the ratio of excellent Cdramas that I watch well above the bad.
Perhaps that's the reason I don't drop many dramas even if they are not very good. I've recharged my tolerance by watching superb shows, so I can endure a few bad ones. If I only watched the longer / larger costume or romance dramas, then the hit-and-miss / boom-and-bust nature of those shows would probably have me questioning if I actually enjoy watching C-ent. PM is a prime example. I was initially hyped, loved the shorts, the atmosphere looked feisty, fun, and funny. The reality, unfortunately, is the opposite. Now at 4/36, I begin to question myself. There is a possibility that things will pick up and get better. I've seen it before. However, there is also a possibility nothing improves, and the drama remains bad until Ep. 36. I've seen that before, too. Lol.
The moment I saw him as Duke Su, I thought to myself, this isn't just a great performance, it's a blueprint or framework for a whole career. Such effortless masculinity and presence. You don't see many performances like that, usually it's a bit more forced or built into the script. Xingyue just embodied the masculine onscreen, and that's a rare trait that only certain people have. Then, you sort of flip into casting director mode and imagine all the things that embodiment is well suited for. It's quite exciting the amount of roles you can think of when you sit down and mull it over. I've said multiple times regarding WXY, that I'd be happy to watch a drama where he's a lone swordsman that roams around ancient China on a horse. He is one of those types that could pull it off and have you gripped on every moment.
Yes, this potential new project mentioned here in the comments sounds very interesting. I'll be keeping my eye on it.
it already broke out last June and then got revived a couple of days ago because a usually accurate melon owner…
Yes, I'm really struggling with PM. I've only watched one more episode since that post (4/36). I ended up cramming in an older IQIYI Light On twelve episode crime series instead. Lol. I don't like my chances of finishing PM, if this keeps up. Now Wild Ambition Bloom is about to start. It's just been so heavily focused on the FLs early on, and tbph, the dynamic between them isn't particularly interesting. Multi-lead shows like this really need to get that right. Great chemistry and the interplay between the lead characters is more than enough to carry the show if they get the balance correct. Mysterious Lotus Casebook is a great example of phenomenal chemistry between the main characters. But, so far, PM just doesn't have it. It's like a bland version of Little Women at the moment. I'm debating whether to drop or hold on for a bit longer to see if it gets better.
I'd actually like to see him play a villain again, too. A powerful and intense one this time rather than a sickly jealous one.
I'd also give anything to see him in a modern crime drama, one where he's a talented young detective who is perhaps a little hot-headed and cocky. A growth story where he faces some doubts, humbles and learns lessons along the way.
~ 10.09.25 - UPDATED WITH (NEW) CONTENT FROM THOSE DATES...
NOTE: Older daily REUTERS collections can be found on this page under the SPOILER tag. Just look for my profile name 😁. If you are curious about the ATMOSPHERE on-set, please take a look 👍...
~ Stunts & Weaponry Edition ~
(NEW ~ 10/9) FOCUS ON ACTING: A bloodied 💙Neo💙 ⚔️ is captured by armed guards 🛡️ who have him surrounded, and are escorting him via spear-point to a prison cell or possible exile ⛓️😭💔(x2)...
(NEW ~ 10/9) FOCUS ON ACTING: Special Operations ♥️AiMi♥️ captured from the front-on angle while filming a battle scene 🛡️📽️. She engages the enemy with firepower 🏹🔥...
♥️AiMi♥️ with an interesting looking crossbow 🏹 (did she make it herself? 🤔). She's under fire 🔥. So, she's moving tactically, returning fire, and engaging the enemy 🔥🏹🔥...
NOTE: Older daily REUTERS collections can be found on this page under the SPOILER tag. Just look for my profile name 😁. If you are curious about the ATMOSPHERE on-set, please take a look 👍...
~ All Dressed Up and Nowhere to Go Edition ~
(NEW) Candid ♥️AiMi♥️ captured between takes wearing her stunning pink outfit 💕...
Why don't you want to play with Zhou Ye again? Is it because of the fans or is there another reason? Wouldn't…
Nothing. I have no personal issue with ZY at all. I completed LOTFG the other day. I'm just really ready for WXY to be the central focus of a drama. He's played the villain, the third-wheel, the compliment to a strong FL, he's shared time, been sickly and weak to drive the story. Now is the time for a strong MC drama with him at the helm. At least one. I just want to see one. Then, he can go back and split time with the FLs again.
Romance isn't the focus. These short crime dramas tend to stay intensely focused on the details pertaining to the crime, the aftermath, and the events leading up. That's why I find them so enjoyable.
However, there is a very deep affection (love) between the leads. One that began in high school and is rekindled later in the story. So perhaps that will be enough to satiate your appetite for romance.
It is possible to put those comments under the spoiler tag? When they become so long it is very hard to navigate…
No problem. Each time I do a collection, I'll leave the newest one open for a few days and then place it under the spoiler tag. I'll edit the older collections and activate the spoiler function to reduce space / clutter.
~ EDIT: All older collections now placed under a spoiler. Only random loose reuters remain unedited. ~
The main purpose of posting Reuters on this page is to give an insight to those unsure or uneasy about this production due to the casting. It provides easy access for them to go and look for themselves and get a feel for the atmosphere on-set, the demeanor of the actors, how they interact between filming, how they look together while filming actual scenes, and what they are being asked to do by the director. It allows those sitting on the fence or passing by to take a peek behind the scenes. Hopefully, it wins them over.
Personally, I believe the vibes have been very good on-set and the only dangerous territory the production has waded into is in relation to the stunts / action sequences. However, people need to decide for themselves if they're comfortable with this production or not.
All done. Absolutely loved it. Good crime dramas always vibe well with me. Outstanding performances all-round. No matter how small the role. Really loved the camera work / cinematography, too.
it already broke out last June and then got revived a couple of days ago because a usually accurate melon owner…
Annoying. After seeing the reuters from LIRD, I really hope that's the direction they move his career in. Let him be the big man. I don't think I can stand another drama where it's the tiny woman running around with a sword protecting him. At least I don't want to see that for a while. I'm slowly making my way through Perfect Match at the moment (Ep. 3). Tbph, I'm not enjoying it.
1 
1 
Long-form dramas are hit-and-miss. I'll always give them kudos when they pull it off, but so many get a little (or a lot) wayward / lost. Take TPOB, for example. The start of that drama had me thinking this may be the best blend of SB romance and political drama I've ever seen. It was so tightly woven together. Every early decision was made with these dual layers in mind. The implications for the individual, the implications for the collective. It was absolutely enthralling. Then, as the drama progressed, it got lost and took shortcuts with other important aspects of the story. While the first leads played an intense game of romantic and political chess in an attempt to win trust, sway opinion, and build a powerful partnership. The second ML hastily wins the trust of the military he seeks to command by essentially winning a bar fight. And, our villains are so woefully neglected that it is impossible to see them as a credible threat. The rule of thumb should always be to establish your villains, like a good tennis match, and have them win a number of rounds / sets. If you have them lose in a humiliating fashion, over and over again, their credibility gets destroyed.
Ultimately, two common problems with long-form are that, firstly, there is often too much space to fill, and secondly, the writers are often fooled into thinking they have more room to work with than they actually do. So, you get an extreme focus and development in some areas, but underdevelopment in other areas as they realise they are running out of space to fit it all in.
TWD irked many due to that early usage of the old poison trope. However, it redeemed itself spectacularly with how it tied that trope in to the story, making it a crucial component in the finale. I think it will be forever underrated due to that aspect. You go from "Not this again" to "That was actually quite clever and well done." But, I wouldn't be surprised if some dropped it because of that factor.
You're right, it did also deprive us of seeing him unleashed. That intense, physical, and athletic Xingyue we had been hoping to see didn't really manifest. We did get to admire his skills in portraying the sickly and weak though. He's very good at it. Lol. I believe LIRD will finally give us what we want. He looked heroic and authoritative in those reuters.
Nice comparisons (I just watched Beloved 👍). Yes, the consensus seems to be that YZ is great for kickstarting a career, but then it begins to plateau, and it's better for your career to move on.
NOTE: Older daily REUTERS collections can be found on this page under the SPOILER tag. Just look for my profile name 😁. If you are curious about the ATMOSPHERE on-set, please take a look 👍...
~ War Horse Edition ~
✨(NEW)✨ 💙Neo💙 smiling and laughing 🤭😄 while talking to ♥️AiMi♥️ backstage 💕💕...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD6eX8h5/
✨(NEW)✨ 💙Neo💙 gently guides ♥️AiMi♥️ during a rehearsal of the ribbon 🎀 tying scene 💕🥰💕...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDjHxntM/
(NEW) 💙Neo💙 rides 🐎 with an arm outstretched displaying ♥️AiMi's♥️ red ribbon 🎀 to the crowd 🎭...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD2ftRHp/
(NEW) ♥️AiMi♥️ pounds the war drums 🥁 in support of 💙Neo💙 🐎🏹💞...
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Rj5gaLY9jk4
(Variation 🥁)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD2hfJME/
(Rear View 🥁)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD2g5XtB/
(Real sound 🥁)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD2TmtuA/
(NEW) CELEBRATIONS 🎉 🤗. 💙Neo💙 must have won the competition as ♥️AiMi♥️ charges in for the embrace 💞💞💞...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD22HRAD/
(Zoomed Out - Variation. 💙Neo's💙 loyal followers can be seen cheering him on in the background 👏👏👏)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD22P4u1/
(Another Stunning Variation 💞)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD2hgR49/
(NEW) 💙Neo💙 charges into the arena on horseback 🐎 ready for action 🏹...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDYcbqMj/
(A Majestic Variation 🐎🏹)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDY3Ybu6/
(NEW) BLOOPERS 🤭. ♥️AiMi♥️ gets a little off target 🎯 while trying to cover 💙Neo's💙 eyes 🤡 🤣...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDYwU4qM/
(Extra 🤣)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDYwojbc/
(Extra 2 🤣)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD2hkmax/
(NEW) 💙Neo💙 and ♥️AiMi♥️ film the ribbon 🎀 scene 🎭. Then, they watch it back 📽️. Both seem happy with the results 👏👍🥰...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDYpLwBD/
(NEW) 💙Neo💙, ♥️AiMi♥️, and the crew discuss the upcoming scene in this sweet candid capture 💞🤗💞...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDYgXhSM/
(NEW) STUNNING VISUAL 🥰. 💙Neo💙 from atop of his horse 🐎 leans forward to allow ♥️AiMi♥️ to gently tie her red ribbon 🎀 around him and cover his eyes 🔥🔥🔥...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDYqUshe/
(Front-on angle 💞)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDYbTcWV/
(Beautiful multi-angle montage 💞)
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/JwsOgrxlUuU
(💙Neo💙 focused variation)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDYwLRmo/
(NEW) Context revealed 😮. ♥️AiMi♥️ takes a red ribbon 🎀 from her hair and ties it around 💙Neo's💙 head covering his eyes 🎭💞🎭...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDYVgoVM/
(NEW) ♥️AiMi♥️ rehearses a beautiful scene with 💙Neo💙 where she appears to either adjusted his hair or caress his face 🥰. Director GYJ / GYC can be seen intructing 📣🎬...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDYPkaJ3/
(Alternate Link)
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/wkfMkbirMto
(NEW) 💙Neo💙, a horse 🐎, and ♥️AiMi♥️. A delightful candid moment is captured on-set 📽️💞...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDYPSK1v/
(Alternate Link / Variation)
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-Ro-DzNQbWc?si=NJvzuZU_54fF7OUB
(NEW)♥️AiMi♥️ comes to see her heroic general 💙Neo💙 off on his mission 🎭💞🏹🐎...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDYfskhu/
#################
💙Neo💙 familiarises himself with his bow in preparation for a scene 🏹...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDN4EucN/
FOCUS ON ACTING 🎭: 💙Neo💙 delivers his lines powerfully 🪖📣💪...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDNQ53fd/
💙Neo💙 rides 🐎 out the confront someone 🗡️. His most loyal guards follow behind ⚔️...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDNQhKod/
Those little strands of hair may look really good 💞🔥, but there is no doubt they tickle and irritate the face 😤. 💙Neo💙 does his best to combat this 🤭...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDNQrYUE/
FOCUS ON ACTING 🎭: Riding tall 🐎, 💙Neo💙 captured filming a scene on horseback 🗡️...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDNxatJe/
💙Neo💙 discussing the scene with a crew member 🐎📽️...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDNx5SUP/
💙Neo💙 sits atop of his mighty steed 🐎...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDN97rhC/
(Zoomed in variation 🐴)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDNx6jxL/
(Zoomed out variation 🐴)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDNxhXV2/
💙Neo💙 rehearses a scene with his four-legged co-star 🐎...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDNH9toy/
NOTE: Older daily REUTERS collections can be found on this page under the SPOILER tag. Just look for my profile name 😁. If you are curious about the ATMOSPHERE on-set, please take a look 👍...
~ Things Are Heating Up Edition ~
11th (NEW) ...
💙Neo💙 holds ♥️AiMi♥️ up as she exits the carriage and gives her what looks to be a reminder or warning ⚠️. She doesn't seem happy 😤 about it 🎬🎭...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDLW7bqm/
💙Neo💙 grabs a naughty ♥️AiMi♥️ by the scruff of the neck 🤫🤭...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDLNLRsJ/
Cheeky 💙Neo💙 plays hide and seek with someone filming him backstage 💕 😄...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDLLonUS/
💙Neo💙 forgets about ♥️AiMi♥️ and focuses his attention on the camera 📽️😍...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD8gQkMo/
Mischievous ♥️AiMi♥️ raids the loot-box ☺️. A couple of items take her fancy 😁...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD8qd6cT/
(Alternate Link)
https://weibo.com/detail/5209772693656340
💙Neo💙 snatches something from ♥️AiMi's♥️ hand 😏😁...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD8qLA4K/
♥️AiMi♥️ studies the script while the makeup and hair team make final adjustments 💕...
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/O_p9lO3Vp5s
The devilishly 😈 handsome 💙Neo💙 showcasing his bedroom eyes 💕👁️ 💕...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD8VnAC6/
♥️AiMi♥️ gets animated while reading her script 😜...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD872SQQ/
New costumes revealed as 💙Neo💙 and ♥️AiMi♥️ share good vibes and discuss the upcoming scene 💞💞💞...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD8VrKDj/
Deeper feelings revealed as 💙Neo💙 swallows nervously as he gets up close and personal with ♥️AiMi♥️🔥...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD8bnoPL/
💙Neo💙 blocks ♥️AiMi's♥️ path and gives her a dressing down 🤬...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD8b2Rkk/
#################
10th...
(NEW) Lol 😂. 💙 Neo's💙 psych up 🤪 routine revealed as he gets himself in the zone for an intense scene 🎭📽️🎬...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD84YQ1b/
(NEW) A cute rehearsal compilation featuring 🖤Riley🖤 and ♥️AiMi♥️ 🏹🥰📽️...
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/b-duXoFDWsE
(NEW) ♥️AiMi♥️, 💙Neo💙, and 🖤Riley🖤 discuss the scene 📽️...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD8XNC7k/
(NEW) Candid moment on-set 😁. 💙Neo💙 has 🖤Riley's🖤 weapon 🏹 and he's going around pointing it at everyone 👿. Including ♥️AiMi♥️ and the crew 😂...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD8CQHFa/
FOCUS ON ACTING🎭. A terrific video that joins together multiple clips to form a complete sequence 👌. It's 💙Neo💙 focused showcasing his performance in these scenes, but with the ♥️ AiMi♥️ clip from below also included 🔥🔥🔥...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDdPt6uC/
FOCUS ON ACTING🎭: The fire 🔥 rises within 💙Neo💙 as he brings the intensity to the screen during an epic battle scene 🗡️🛡️...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDdPFHVV/
FOCUS ON ACTING🎭: ♥️ AiMi♥️ lets her emotion out as 💙Neo💙 lays critically wounded on the ground at the hands of the jealous 🖤 Riley🖤📽️😭💔...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDdfchxV/
(NEW - Zoomed in variation)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD8Xd3ob/
FOCUS ON ACTING🎭: 💙Neo💙 spitting blood as a dramatic scene plays out where he attempts to rescue ♥️AiMi♥️ alone 💔😭...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDdfdrcS/
(Variation)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDdf9xdD/
Backstage capture of a bloodied 💙Neo💙 as he prepares to film his solo rescue scene ⚔️🛡️ 🎭...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDdfHdYR/
Candid capture 📽️. Fun on-set while filming a scene where 🖤Riley🖤 holds ♥️ AiMi♥️ hostage and points his weapon directly at 💙Neo💙 who has come to rescue her 💔...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDdUgBtc/
♥️AiMi♥️ and 🖤Riley🖤 getting direction how the scene will play out 📢. It looks like ♥️AiMi♥️ will bite 🖤 Riley's🖤 hand and break free 😼...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDdUKL7A/
Director GYJ / GYC instructs 🖤Riley🖤 how to hold the weapon 🏹 while holding ♥️AiMi♥️ captive ⛓️...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDdySyXW/
🖤Riley🖤 rehearses firing his weapon 🏹. ♥️AiMi♥️ finds it amusing 😁...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDdf1UEV/
Yes, by contrast, MLC gets it so right that even if what you are watching at times could be considered filler, you don't notice it because that trio was just so good together onscreen.
We definitely share similar viewing habits 😁. WAB looks like a really good one. Those Light On crime dramas, and other small crowd (at least on MDL) dramas of varying genres are what keep me sane and recharged. You get such a good return out of them in terms of quality and enjoyment. That way, it keeps the ratio of excellent Cdramas that I watch well above the bad.
Perhaps that's the reason I don't drop many dramas even if they are not very good. I've recharged my tolerance by watching superb shows, so I can endure a few bad ones. If I only watched the longer / larger costume or romance dramas, then the hit-and-miss / boom-and-bust nature of those shows would probably have me questioning if I actually enjoy watching C-ent. PM is a prime example. I was initially hyped, loved the shorts, the atmosphere looked feisty, fun, and funny. The reality, unfortunately, is the opposite. Now at 4/36, I begin to question myself. There is a possibility that things will pick up and get better. I've seen it before. However, there is also a possibility nothing improves, and the drama remains bad until Ep. 36. I've seen that before, too. Lol.
The moment I saw him as Duke Su, I thought to myself, this isn't just a great performance, it's a blueprint or framework for a whole career. Such effortless masculinity and presence. You don't see many performances like that, usually it's a bit more forced or built into the script. Xingyue just embodied the masculine onscreen, and that's a rare trait that only certain people have. Then, you sort of flip into casting director mode and imagine all the things that embodiment is well suited for. It's quite exciting the amount of roles you can think of when you sit down and mull it over. I've said multiple times regarding WXY, that I'd be happy to watch a drama where he's a lone swordsman that roams around ancient China on a horse. He is one of those types that could pull it off and have you gripped on every moment.
Yes, this potential new project mentioned here in the comments sounds very interesting. I'll be keeping my eye on it.
I'd actually like to see him play a villain again, too. A powerful and intense one this time rather than a sickly jealous one.
I'd also give anything to see him in a modern crime drama, one where he's a talented young detective who is perhaps a little hot-headed and cocky. A growth story where he faces some doubts, humbles and learns lessons along the way.
~ 10.09.25 - UPDATED WITH (NEW) CONTENT FROM THOSE DATES...
NOTE: Older daily REUTERS collections can be found on this page under the SPOILER tag. Just look for my profile name 😁. If you are curious about the ATMOSPHERE on-set, please take a look 👍...
~ Stunts & Weaponry Edition ~
(NEW ~ 10/9) FOCUS ON ACTING: A bloodied 💙Neo💙 ⚔️ is captured by armed guards 🛡️ who have him surrounded, and are escorting him via spear-point to a prison cell or possible exile ⛓️😭💔(x2)...
(Zoomed Out - Variation)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDejpXnx/
(Zoomed In - Variation)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDejSA8q/
(NEW ~ 10/9) FOCUS ON ACTING: Special Operations ♥️AiMi♥️ captured from the front-on angle while filming a battle scene 🛡️📽️. She engages the enemy with firepower 🏹🔥...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSD16juGD/
############
FOCUS ON ACTING (x2): Lol 😂. ♥️AiMi♥️ finds herself in chains again 😭. Scene reveals she's being escorted somewhere via carriage ⛓️ 📽️ ...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAECkkps/
(The one holding her hostage appears to be 🖤Riley🖤)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAEXkeKd/
(Combined Variation)
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/fZCWNcmmA-s
Proud of himself 😁.💙Neo💙 displays a little smirk 😏. Before his expression changes when he hears something 😲...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAEhumaS/
A candid moment with 💙Neo💙 as he walks around on-set with his rigging on ✌️...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAEhtYeE/
(NEW) Pure intensity 💯 🔥.💙Neo💙 charges into the fray 💪🛡️🗡️(x2) ...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAEhrWEH/
(Variation)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAEhMtW5/
A collection of candid ♥️ AiMi♥️ clips 💕...
(Giggling with the crew and booping down the stairs)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAEQAHjX/
(Listening intensely while getting hair adjusted)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAEVrXWw/
(Hair & makeup 💄)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAEVJjkH/
(Good vibes on-set x2)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAEVLEh8/
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAEVHBp7/
A six video collection of 💙Neo💙 filming the combat sequence in the streets 🛡️💪🗡️...
https://weibo.com/detail/5208326642340243
Candid capture of ♥️AiMi♥️ having her hair adjusted 💕...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAw3WWEh/
Candid capture of ♥️AiMi♥️ joking around with the crew backstage 💕...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAKeSpma/
♥️AiMi♥️ with an interesting looking crossbow 🏹 (did she make it herself? 🤔). She's under fire 🔥. So, she's moving tactically, returning fire, and engaging the enemy 🔥🏹🔥...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAwgAeVL/
💙Neo💙 descends from the top floor of a building to the streets below 😲🦸. His sword 🗡️ drawn and thirsty for blood 🎭...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAwqkv7f/
💙Neo's💙 prep and launch 🚀 into action ⚔️...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAwb5o9U/
💙Neo's💙 magnificent armour and rig setup in full detail 🛡️👌...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAwb6Kmc/
💙Neo💙 discussing the scene / stunt with the crew 💪...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAwbsQVs/
💙Neo💙 backstage being escorted to his trailer 💞...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAwbtB6H/
NOTE: Older daily REUTERS collections can be found on this page under the SPOILER tag. Just look for my profile name 😁. If you are curious about the ATMOSPHERE on-set, please take a look 👍...
~ All Dressed Up and Nowhere to Go Edition ~
(NEW) Candid ♥️AiMi♥️ captured between takes wearing her stunning pink outfit 💕...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAwVmf6S/
(NEW) 💙Neo💙 and 🧡Shi Yanpei🧡 find ♥️ AiMi's♥️ predicament amusing 😁...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAw4cKb3/
💙Neo💙 lifts a blood soaked piece of material with his sword 🗡️. He then walks over to have words with someone 😠...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA3pvh7Y/
(Extended Variation)
https://weibo.com/detail/5207967830118768
(Front view)
https://weibo.com/detail/5207971489646794
💙Neo💙 possibly spattering fake blood on his hands 🤲...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA34wqVX/
Candid ♥️AiMi♥️ getting chained to the post 😁...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA3VRN7E/
💙Neo's💙 blood spattered side profile 💞...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA34GN3a/
Candid 💙Neo💙 covered in blood (likely someone else's) pointing at the camera ☝️...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA34cLrg/
💙Neo's💙 blood spattered face 🗡️🎭...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA34kaqv/
SPECIAL FOCUS ON ACTING: 🖤Riley's🖤 conversation 🎭...
https://weibo.com/detail/5207969341112773
💙Neo💙 storms off powerfully after having 🧡Shi Yanpei🧡 restrain ♥️AiMi♥️ and chain her to a post 💪...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA3u8PMD/
♥️AiMi♥️ gives the crew a fist pump 👊...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA3yo3ka/
SPECIAL FOCUS ON ACTING: ♥️AiMi♥️ protests being chained to a post 🥺...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA3UJddE/
💙Neo💙 looking super handsome 👌...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA3SSUMd/
💙Neo💙 filming a scene possibly with 💞Liu Lingzi💞🎥...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA3BqXf9/
💙Neo💙 filming with two female co-stars 💞...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA3rYgaU/
💙Neo💙 nibbles his nails 😁...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA3MBfF5/
💙Neo💙 stares his opponent down before drawing his sword 🗡️...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA36VPhQ/
(Variation 🗡️)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA3MaG5L/
💙Neo💙 erupts in laughter 😂...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA36vkmy/
💙Neo💙 looking dapper and accompanied by a mysterious woman in red 🍒...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA36NWrD/
💙Neo's💙 costume in brilliant detail 👌. Textures and all can be seen 💕...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA3jEMjR/
♥️AiMi♥️ is dressed to impress💕, but finds herself chained to a post 😭...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA3Y9RmP/
(Variation. Acting in detail 🎭)
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA32PHdt/
(Alternate Link)
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/kt_dxZ0aPrw
(Alternate 2)
https://weibo.com/detail/5207872805799599
Talented martial artist / actor 🧡Shi Yanpei🧡 captured trying out his sword ⚔️ between takes 🎥...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSA3jrhhq/
(NEW) Candid ♥️AiMi♥️ captured outdoors from an EARLIER DATE 💕...
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAwqYhM2/
However, there is a very deep affection (love) between the leads. One that began in high school and is rekindled later in the story. So perhaps that will be enough to satiate your appetite for romance.
~ EDIT: All older collections now placed under a spoiler. Only random loose reuters remain unedited. ~
The main purpose of posting Reuters on this page is to give an insight to those unsure or uneasy about this production due to the casting. It provides easy access for them to go and look for themselves and get a feel for the atmosphere on-set, the demeanor of the actors, how they interact between filming, how they look together while filming actual scenes, and what they are being asked to do by the director. It allows those sitting on the fence or passing by to take a peek behind the scenes. Hopefully, it wins them over.
Personally, I believe the vibes have been very good on-set and the only dangerous territory the production has waded into is in relation to the stunts / action sequences. However, people need to decide for themselves if they're comfortable with this production or not.