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Although it's been years since I watched Arsenal Military Academy, it's still one of my favorite Xu Kai dramas and one of the first titles I recommend to anyone exploring his work. Arsenal Military Academy revolves around the classic "woman disguised as a man" trope, yet it executes it surprisingly well. Bai Lu's portrayal of Xie Xiang is genuinely convincing, making it easy to believe why those around her never suspect her true identity.

Xu Kai absolutely shines as Gu Yanzhen. He perfectly captures the character's arrogant, playful, and reckless personality while gradually revealing an unexpectedly sweet side once he falls in love, making him incredibly endearing. Watching him slowly realize his feelings for Xie Xiang and awkwardly navigate falling in love is easily one of the drama's biggest highlights. Looking back, I can't blame fans for becoming obsessed with Xu Kai and Bai Lu. They complemented each other so well on screen that it was almost impossible not to ship them. Their chemistry wasn't forced, it simply clicked. And let's be honest, Xu Kai's visuals were absolutely unreal in this drama (!!!).

The story is entertaining, the military academy setting feels refreshing, the cross-dressing trope is executed well, and the chemistry between the leads is simply the icing on the cake.