emberzmars

Spicy jiejie romance that could have been great with better emotional connection

I was very intrigued by the drama's poster. The English-translated title implied younger man-older woman romance (my favourite trope) and the ML looked hot! So I clicked play and I enjoyed the drama.

What I liked:
1. Romance - Damn, the intimate scenes were blazing hot - there were heavy kissing & spicy dialogue. There were sweet moments as well. I liked that ML was attracted to FL even when he lost his memory.
2. FL characterisation - I loved that she was never condescending to ML despite him being a kept man. She was protective of him whenever she got slandered due to their relationship. She was frustrated with her family but was never vicious.
3. ML characterisation - I liked how he took care of FL. I didn't like that he kept his identity from FL for awhile but he was an overall a nice & sincere man. Shao Wei looked damn hot especially with the apron.
4. Styling - Great clothes worn by both FL & ML. Kudos to stylist for FL's outfits & hairstyling during flashback. Chu Aixu looked high school pretty there.
5. Supporting characters - I really liked ML's grandma and brother.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - Blatant favouritism there.
2. Connection - The couple had great physical relationship but I couldn't see emotional connection between them. I wish there were more couple-in-love scenes just before the ending.

Favourite scene
The first time FL saw ML in her kitchen

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Spicy & dark revenge tale that feels like a mini drama production

I am a fan of Wen Mo Yan and my last drama of hers is Everlasting Love, which I enjoyed. I was ecstatic to find out about her new drama yesterday. I enjoyed it a lot.

What I liked:
1. Revenge theme - There are so many revenge-themed dramas in the world of vertical dramas and I enjoyed this drama despite the familiar plot device. For once, I am delighted that green tea didn't get much screen time.
2. Acting - Great performance by Wen Mo Yan & Chen Ming Hao. I've only enjoyed 1 or 2 of her vertical drama - this one is added to the list. This is my first drama of Chen Ming Hao and I am keen to explore more. I felt that actor playing second male lead (SML) gave a good performance too
3. Romance - 🔥 Plenty of hot & heavy kisses. Good mix of love and lust. I was even hoping for some action by SML.
4. Editing - This drama felt more like a mini drama production because of the directing/framing of shots & tone. I am also grateful that Wen Mo Yan's voice is not dubbed.
5. Visuals - Damn, both ML & SML are very handsome. Wen Mo Yan is pretty, as usual.
6. Length - Running time of 100 minutes. Just perfect to watch after dinner but before bed.

What I disliked:
1. The ending - I kinda expect FL's action but ML's response baffled me. Why a cliffhanger?

Favourite scene
When FL remembered the most atrocious thing that happened to her in previous life - what an emotional punch to the heart!

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There is a lot of beauty in quiet strength

What I liked:
1. Romance - This drama really focuses on the relationship between FL and ML. It is a slow burn but rich romance. They went into a marriage of convenience but I like how FL was open to affection and physical touch even though she was shy about kissing at first. I enjoy the chemistry (both acting & visual) between Guo Yu Xin and Chen Zheng Yang. There are at least 2 times that Guo Yu Xin’s ears turned red - was she cold or shy filming certain scenes with Chen Zheng Yang?
2. ML characterisation - I must say ML is the star of this drama. He is mature, emotionally stable and attentive to the needs of his partner. What I like most about him is his empathy. I was touched by his reaction when FL confided in him about a nasty encounter with her father’s acquaintance. They both sought comfort in each other. Chen Zheng Yang truly excelled in this role.
3. FL characterisation - There is a lot of beauty in quiet strength. She understands her self-worth, that’s an attribute I like about her. She cares for people who are genuinely concerned about her and if people treat her badly, then she gives similar kind of treatment to that group of people. Guo Yu Xin was great in portraying an intricate character.
4. Supporting characters - I love FL’s grandpa because he genuinely cares for FL. The actor was very good. ML’s assistant was a delight to watch as well.
5. Styling - I love the clothes worn by FL especially the traditional wedding dress. Exquisite beadwork. In this drama, Chen Zheng Yang wore a lot of wide leg pants and clunky shoes. I love seeing him in white suit because his outfit matched Guo Yu Xin’s white qipao.
6. Cinematography - Just beautiful!

What I disliked
1. Antagonist - Wow, FL’s father is a scumbag for treating his daughters as commodities. He even drugged his daughters and suitors to increase chances of marriage deals. Song Ziyan was petulant while Jiang Fei, his ex girlfriend was despicable.
2. Extras - There is a scene in which cleaners gossip about FL and ML. One cleaner wore stilettos which led to my surprise. Maybe extras could wear any shoes they wanted.

Favourite scene
ML’s reaction when FL confided in him about a nasty encounter with her father’s acquaintance

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Who knew Li Ke Yi could do comedy. Refreshing storytelling!

I found this drama while perusing Zhao Zhen Dong's drama playlist on Youtube. I liked Li Ke Yi's recent dramas and based on youtube comments that I read, this drama had positive reviews. I watched this drama on flights to/from neighbouring country and I couldn't stop laughing especially the beginning part. I enjoyed this drama immensely because of its refreshing storytelling.

What I liked:
1. Comedy - This is one of the funniest dramas I have watched. Some scenes were absurd but damn there were hilarious!
2. FL characterisation - I loved that she's quick thinker. Very bright in her response to her love rival. She was smart to act like a damsel in distress but most important of all, FL was a genuine and kind person. I liked Li Ke Yi more after watching this drama.
3. ML characterisation - He was wary of FL's intentions but his actions contradicted with his earlier instructions to the family secretary.
4. Supporting character - I actually liked ML's family secretary. Fascinating arc & well done to the actress for great performance. I also liked ML's assistant, the orphans and FL's friend from orphanage.
5. Romance - The romance in this drama is sweet including the kisses. I enjoyed watching ML's changing feelings for FL.
6. Editing - Great shots especially the shower scene. Strategically placed items throughout that first theft scene. The pacing was done well too.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - Lin Ruorou was a typical green tea - annoying. I wish Xue Xin was given bigger arc than Lin Rourou.
2. Ending - It was cute but I wanted more from FL regarding her feelings for ML.

Favourite scene
The first time FL showed us her power

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Wang Dao Tie as stud for hire just made me swoon!

I have been wanting to watch more Wang Dao Tie's dramas but kept forgetting about this drama until I stumbled upon the comment section of this page. So I watched last night and damn it was perfect for evening watch.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - FL is independent and focused on personal and professional goals. I liked that she stopped believing ML's nonsense once served with divorce paper and did not go back to the ML. This is the first time I watched Zhao Jia's acting and she did well in this role.
2. ML characterisation - The quiet guy who had a crush on FL but never did anything about it until FL was divorced. ML started as a stud for FL to get pregnant but hey hey he has hidden agenda. I liked that the way he supported and comforted her and was always concerned about her mental wellbeing.
3. Romance - OMG the romance is freaking spicy! Damn, Wang Dao Tie's chest looked good. The kisses were hot and there were also plenty of sweet gestures between the couple.
4. Supporting characters - I liked ML's spy/employee very much because he was quick thinking. At first I wasn't a fan of FL's grandpa because of the request for great-grandchild but I liked him when he told SML that he respected FL's life choice post-divorce.
5. Styling - Impeccable styling for all 3 leads. FL wears stilettos and Jin Jiayu still towers over her and Wang Dao Tie, wow!

What I disliked:
1. SML - I must say that FL's ex husband is a selfish and manipulative douchebag. I can't believe he never took responsibility for those fake charades he did prior to the divorce. Jin Jiayu was excellent in his role because I freaking hated him!
2. Secondary antagonists - The lady baddies were annoying as hell especially the white moonlight. I was shocked when she took advantage of FL's illness.

Favourite scene
When ML comforted FL when she was in pain

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Delightful romcom about kickass FL, mischievous bestie, smitten ML and their shenanigans

I found out about this drama on reddit and watched this drama on 21 April 2025. Chen Zheng Yang is one of my favourite actors and Shi Tong is slowly becoming one of my favourite actresses. I must say I was very entertained by this drama.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - At the start, FL seemed sheltered and pampered by her upbringing but I liked that she took an initiative to solve her living conditions. I loved that she could literally kick ass! Shi Tong played the character with so much youthfulness and energy.
2. ML characterisation - He was smitten by FL from the first sight. I liked that he's sweet and protective. I always enjoy Chen Zheng Yang playing goofballs.
3. Romance - There is 10 year age difference between Chen Zheng Yang and Shi Tong but they made it work to their advantage without the ick factor. It was wonderful that FL enjoyed kissing ML despite her assumptions of ML. The role play is too cute hahaha.
4. Comedy - I laughed a lot watching this drama.
5. Supporting characters - OMG, FL and her best friend's shenanigans were entertaining. ML's grandpa and assistant were delightful to watch too.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - ML's relative was horrible towards FL. I also disliked the woman who assumed the identity of ML's white moonlight but good thing FL & ML wasn't fooled by both of these baddies.

Favourite scene
When FL kicked bad guys and girl for harassing her

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Writer trying to do too much. End result is a mess

I got to know about this drama from subreddit CShortDramas. I was excited to see Cao Tian Kai and Wu Tian Hao together in one drama. Overall, the drama was alright though I wish there was better writing.

What I liked:
1. Cao Tian Kai - OMG any scenes of Cao Tian Kai in bedroom were must see. He did alright in this role.
2. Wu Tian Hao - Wow, I appreciate him for taking a different role. In this drama, his character is a submissive. I found him endearing despite his ill intentions.
3. FL's past - To be honest, I find flashbacks to FL's mean attitude were more exciting than her current state.
4. Styling - I was fond of styling for Biscuit Nana, Cao Tian Kai & Wu Tian Hao. The black leather-like jacket that CTK wore with white shirt & black slacks elevated his hotness.

What I disliked:
1. Buscuit Nana - She gave an underwhelming performance for a woman who was pursued by 4 men. She was too cute for my liking. Even scenes between her and Cao Tian Kai lacked spark.
2. Romance - Now I see similarity between this drama and My Mermaid Husband. There were many suitors but the screentime was unequal. There were only 2 suitors worth rooting because the other two didn't evoke any strong romantic feelings between FL and the gut. The romance didn't work for me as I didn't find any chemistry between Biscuit Nana and all her male co-stars.
3. Mystery guy - I just find this arc confusing and badly written.
4. Ending - What a cop out!

Favourite scene
When FL received a video call from Cao Tian Kai

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Doctor-soldier romance with mature vibe

I remember watching this drama on the first weekend of April and poof the link was removed 1 or 2 days after. It's no fun because I usually rewatch some parts of drama when writing review and now I wrote based on memory. Anyway it was great watching these seasoned actors in a drama drama.

What I liked:
1. Familiar plot - This drama reminded me a lot of So You Also Like Me, in which FL is doctor while ML is soldier. She even went to conflict zone where ML was stationed.
2. Romance - This drama has mature romance vibe to it. There are sweet & spicy scenes. That makeout session on dining table was hot!
3. Acting - Both Bai Yan and Wang Yi Ran were great in their roles. If I am not mistaken, Bai Yan said some English words in this drama. Was it 'Thank you'? Hhmmm
4. Action - I also liked the action scenes especially the military scenes. Good to see Wang Yi Ran in uniform.

What I disliked:
1. Communication - One of my frustration with this drama is that FL & ML did not communicate at 1 point which led to assumptions.

Favourite scene
Action scenes of ML and his comrades

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A tale of two sisters, second chances and contrasting marriages

I actually found this drama from another drama with the same plot. I read the comments there and some users mentioned that this version was a better drama. I was pleasantly surprised to see Wang Hao Xiang as I liked his performance in a drama with Xu Meng Yuan. This was the first time I watched Shi Yue Yue and Ou Na. I enjoyed this drama a lot.

What I liked:
1. Acting - Great acting by Shi Yue Yue, Wang Hao Xiang, Ou Na and the actor who played Jiang Zhao Hua. Their performances reminded me of Chinese mini drama, 'A Familiar Stranger' because these four characters are intertwined with each other.
2. Romance - DAMN, this drama had the main CP made love in a different way. I was shocked! Shi Yue Yue should be given an award for those scenes. Anyway it was great to see the contrast between the main CP (loving & respectful) and secondary CP (full of negativity & suspicions). I liked that ML was respectful of FL's decision on having a family.
3. Plot - This is my first reborn tale involving sisters. SFL Jiang Zhao Hua was the only given a second chance. It's fascinating to see how her character lived her life after the second chance and also how both sisters made life decisions. FL was more strategic & content with both lives that she had experienced.
4. Locus of control - External vs Internal. SFL always blamed the outcomes of events in her life on other people. She was an interesting character to study.
5. Styling - Beautiful outfits. I liked the wedding outfits worn by both sisters.

What I disliked:
1. Cruelty - SML was cruel, I couldn't believe he did those actions to his wife.

Favourite scene
ML & FL in the bath

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Loved the couple for being flirty, serious & attuned to each other's needs

I came across this drama during my first month of vertical drama exploration. I enjoyed the dramas uploaded on Dramazone YouTube channel & this drama had interesting title. This was the first drama that introduced me to Zhang Yi Yang and Chen Si Che. Glad I watched it because it was very enjoyable romance-heavy drama.

What I liked:
1. ML characterisation - I liked how his character developed from an immature, reluctant nepo baby to a motivated, hardworking CEO-in-training. Zhang Yi Yang was charming & goofy in this role. At times he reminded me of Dylan Wang most likely due to his visuals.
2. FL characterisation - I loved FL who is an empowered woman with vulnerability (hate Mary Sue) and this drama captured it well. Chen Si Che was excellent in her role.
3. Romance - I liked their romance as there were different dynamics (flirty strangers vs serious colleagues) shown in this drama. They talked regularly about their relationship and were attuned to each other's needs. Chen Si Che & Zhang Yi Yang had great chemistry.
4. Supporting characters - Loved ML's grandpa who sided more with FL than his own flesh & blood. ML's assistant & friends were entertaining too.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - I don't like antagonists who physically harm people but I appreciated that there was interesting arc for antagonist.

Favourite scene
When ML rushed to the hospital

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Great acting & dialogue on relationship won me over!

There are plenty of vertical dramas with many remakes and adaptations. I have decided to watch this type of dramas - at least 3 different versions so I can make comparison. For this set of 'Selling eggs' drama, I have watched 'A Night Deeply Drunk on the Spring Breeze' starring Du Ya Fei & Yang Shu Yu. I enjoyed that version and got excited to watch this version. I was pleasantly surprised by this version!

What I liked:
1. ML characterisation - Huang Bo's Dr Shi Lin was very different from Du Ya Fei's Dr Shi Lin. The ML here was patient, respectful & sensitive. I loved Huang Bo's portrayal of the character because of his soft facial expressions.
2. FL characterisation - Lin Mian was not a damsel in distress as she made a lot of effort to solve her problems. While there were instances that I disagree with her decision making, those decisions was part of her build. She was young & poor. This is my first drama of Fan Di Yu & I was impressed by her acting. She's got range!
3. Romance - I liked how FL-ML relationship progressed from debtor-creditor to a romantic couple. Unlike the other drama, I could sense this FL's growing attraction towards ML. Even though ML was more expressive with his feelings, both of them had clear communications about their relationship. There were some nice kisses (kisses could be hotter if director filmed the scenes longer or changed the angle).
4. Supporting characters - Now the SML & SFL in this version had more substantial back story compared to 'A Night Deeply Drunk on the Spring Breeze'. Both were sinister and I was shocked!

What I disliked:
1. Poster - Damn the poster was misleading. Huang Bo's Dr Shi Lin gave me a serial killer vibe that I immediately watched the theme song of American tv show Dexter prior to watching this drama.
2. Colour grading - I think the production value (especially the set design & props) was good enough. However I wish the drama was colour corrected because the current setting was dull & might deter people from viewing.

Favourite scene
When FL asked from ML for a loan equivalent to FL's assumed worth

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Pragmatic FL & heartfelt confession made me shed a few tears. What a great bittersweet drama!

I am so excited that a MDL page for this drama has been created because I submitted the New Title. I watched this drama on 6 March 2025 and what drew me to watch this drama was the thumbnail. Fang Zheng Nan's abs to be exact! Anyway I enjoyed this drama so much - I even shed a few tears.

What I liked:
1. Acting - Spectacular acting by Li Ruo Qi and Fang Zheng Nan. Li Ruo Qi was able to evoke different facial expressions and I particularly love her expression of empathy. Anyway male actors rarely make me cry but wow Fang Zheng Nan's acting was so heartfelt that I shed some tears.
2. FL characterisation - I have watched substitute wife dramas before but this drama's substitute wife is the best. Shi Qi was clear about the boundaries set by Lu Huai Nian and adhered to them closely. I liked that she was goal-driven and didn't romanticise about ML's good treatment of her. Oh I also liked how she helped ML with his business problem. That was unexpected!
3. ML characterisation - He was never condescending but hahaha he was delusional for assuming FL to love him. I liked that he treated FL with respect even after their contract ended.
4. Supporting characters - ML's best friend was smart and realist. I liked that he brought some sense to ML. I'd like to watch more of the actor's dramas so please leave a comment if you know his name. I also liked FL's best friend, Miss Tang and the butler.
5. Romance - It was fascinating to watch the FL-ML dynamics grow from employee-employer to pursuit-suitor. Theirs was slow burn romance with 2 or 3 kisses. I liked that they had a proper conversation about their feelings and the divorce.

What I disliked:
1. ML's motive - I didn't quite understand ML's motive for substitute wife.

Favourite scene:
When ML eavesdropped while ML's best friend asked FL about her feelings for ML. Reality finally sunk in for him.

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Love the drama aesthetics and the homage to Hong Kong 90s films

I watched this drama last night after seeing cuts on Youtube. Two thoughts that appeared when watching the cuts: (i) I recognised the main actor Cheng Cheng and (ii) oh, another mob boss story . I didn't realise FL was Deng Ling Shu until I checked the MDL page. Anyway I enjoyed this drama so much!

What I liked:
1. ML characterisation - I noticed the faint similarity between this drama, Captive Love from the Mob Boss (starring Zhang Chu Xuan and Ma Xiao Yu) and No One but You (starring Liu Lan Bo & Zheng Chen Yu). All three MLs were mob bosses and they were aggressive in the pursuit of FL. Out of the three, I liked Liang Tai Sheng the most because he thought of FL's perspectives unlike the other two MLs. This is the second time Cheng Cheng portrayed a mob boss but in this role, he was more ruthless towards anyone who threatens him & his lady love. I enjoyed Cheng Cheng's acting as he was able to portray different emotions of his character.
2. Setting - This story was set in the mid-90s and I love the aesthetics! There was a nice homage to Hong Kong 90s films from a cinema date watching A Chinese Odyssey to colour grading and shots similar to Wong Kar Wai's Fallen Angels and In the Mood for Love.
3. FL characterisation - I loved that she was a working class girl who remained modest and humble even after marriage. She was kind but responded accordingly whenever she was treated badly. I liked Deng Ling Shu's acting in this drama so much more than 'Wild as Hell: The Prince’s Saga , He Is Too Wild'.
4. Supporting characters - ML's right hand man was delightful on screen. I also liked FL's mother.
5. Romance - Slow burn romance. I enjoyed watching ML woo FL. There were many sweet moments with one or two nice kisses. I wish there were hot kisses because both ML & FL were passionate for each other once romance bloomed.
6. Music - I detected familiar tunes in this drama from 'Magic melody' by befour to instrumentals such as 'See the light' by Lim Hyunsik (from Korean tv series 'When the Phone Rings') and 'La valse d'Amelie' by Yann Tiersen (from French film 'Amelie').
7. Styling - FL's outfits were fabulous that I want to wear them. My favourite is the emerald green jacket and midi skirt. ML also looked handsome in the outfits and that hairstyle.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - As usual there are always love rival. ML's admirer & self-proclaimed fiancée was delusional. FL's ex was pitiful at first but later on proved to be a scumbag.

Favourite scene
When ML bonded with his mother-in-law

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Great visuals but romance was lacking

I was very excited when I found out that Guo Yuxin was working with Shen Hao Nan on a drama. Saw this drama on Thursday and watched it a day after. I finished it feeling less than satisfied.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - Yes, finally Guo Yuxin didn't have to cry her heart out for a man! I liked Song Ning for her courage & self-reliance. She solved her problems - definitely not a damsel in distress.
2. Plot - I'd say I never imagined the story would go that way, mostly in a good way. I was entertained throughout the drama.
3. Styling - Ok we know Shen Haonan is gorgeous and the styling from hair to clothes was impeccable. Guo Yuxin's styling was on point too. I love her magenta gown. She looked like a mermaid which made me think of Mermaid Husband (I'd love to see a remake with Guo Yuxin as FL).
4. Supporting characters - Despite the short airtime, I really liked Kang Xu. First impression gives a big impact and oh boy, he did. I also liked ML's mother & assistant. The dynamic between ML's mum & dad was fun to watch.

What I disliked:
1. Romance - For a couple pairing that is visually stunning, the romance is lacking. Yes there were some kisses and handholding but there was little time spent on the development of FL & ML as a couple. Most of the time was spent on FL's battles with her love rivals.
2. Ending - What??? C'mon at least give us a bedroom scene. I know Shen Haonan & Guo Yuxin had done intimate scenes (Your Trap & World Upside Down being my favourite dramas respectively).
3. Work - It's a bummer that we only got to see glimpse of FL's work. Her interview scene was great because the casse study had a personal touch to it.

Favourite scene
FL's interview at another company

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Unpredictable in good way + wonderful arcs for 3 main characters

I am a massive fan of Wen Mo Yan so I was delighted to see a new drama out in the first quarter of the 2025.

What I liked:
1. The plot - Wow, I was surprised at every turn as all my guesses of where things were going were incorrect. Making a few historical characters with little known back story was a great move to be creative with character development. It's refreshing.
2. FL characterisation - I liked Ye Ji Nan. She's a history buff which was advantageous to her but she was sensible while exploring. I enjoyed watching Wen Mo Yan playing Ye Ji Nan in modern and historical eras.
3. ML characterisation - I liked Feng Zhi Li. He was a known tyrant but later we saw his other sides. I liked that we saw his baddie side in third act. This is my first time watching We Ji Feng's acting and I was pleasantly surprised by his performance. He was able to express different personas of Feng Zhi Li and overall he was charming.
3. SFL characterisation - Princess Zhi Fan was a delight to watch. She's a capable, smart and beautiful army general. I also enjoyed watching her character development. This is my first time watching Liu Jia Xi's performance and I was impressed.
4. Romance - It was a fun ride at the start since Ye Ji Nan was brought into the royal concubine's body and she had to impersonate. I loved it when she realised that she should seize the opportunity to have a romantic relationship with the King. Yes, there were several kisses but what made me enjoyed watching their romance is the affectionate and tender moments. It was good to see the couple being tested in their relationship due to ML's severe action.
5. Ending - I thought it would go another way but hey I really liked this ending.
6. Stying - The outfits worn by the main three characters were beautiful. I love some of the royal concubine's robes.

What I disliked:
1. Supporting characters - Ling Shan and Yan Ming were underdeveloped characters. I was intrigued by Ling Shan and wanted to see him more on screen.
2. Dubbing - I was dismayed when I heard FL's voice in the first episode. That wasn't Wen Mo Yan's voice. Apparently most characters were dubbed. I wonder why.

Favourite scene
When FL found out that ML knew about her real identity

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