Reviews

LOVE Rain and Payu.

I really love Rain and Payu's story. SO GOOD. They mostly get the rating. Rain is hilarious. Such a brat. And Payu thought he was cute too. I loved their banter and ribbing. And these two look so good together. GREAT acting by Noeul and Boss. Their chemistry was incredible.

Sky and Prapai are a bit too slow in the beginning but get better by the end. Sky was SO mean at times. I'm assuming it's a cultural thing because that level of mean borders petty and that irked me. lol They did have some fire scenes though. And the way Prapai cared for Sky was SO emotional.

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Literally a LONGEST promise!

Ok this is drama really loved up to its name. The LONGEST promise ever. The drama was crazy long and boring to me. I started watching this for XZ as most did. But I regretted starting it from 3rd episode on and I'm not someone to leave series half way. So i forced myself to watch the rest. Thankfully I found a new obsession. Alan Feng. He was the sole reason why I watched the rest. And they did him very dirty in the end. The merfork never had a day in the series where he was happy.

Anyway the movie was a slow burn until 35th episode. I wish the story was as eventful from the beginning but they cramped up everything that was supposed to be spanned out over 40 episodes in the last 5 episodes. I was annoyed at the FL for her hyperactive and intrusive nature where she is disturbing the ML and has her nose in everyone's business from the beginning. But her character became more tolerable finally when she had a purpose other than chase after her master.

The costumes and some of the CGIs were very nice to watch. But in some parts of the story it was very obvious that it was greenscreen. It kinda gave me an ick. Also what's up with the subplots and characters popping up at random part of the story like the ice clan, Ruyi and Sumo. I felt like the story line was all over the place and was not consistent for most characters.

Again all the characters went through all these for no one to end up happy. It was emotionally taxing to watch this drama and I won't recommend this to anyone.

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Is this what a strong female lead is supposed to be?

I really don't understand the good reviews ??

The marketing for this was a total bait-and-switch. The FL was the most annoying thing on the planet! every time she said the word "DUDU," it made my skin crawl. Why was she acting like a lovestruck teenager when she was supposed to be a tough man? It’s impossible to believe anyone would fall for her disguise when she makes zero effort to be suspicious-free.

The way the ML found out her secret was ridiculous. There is no way in hell he could have felt her breasts while they were riding a horse like that. On top of the bad logic, the ML was bland, boring, and had zero personality. I didn't care about him at all. The actor also genuinely didn't impress me here.

The story was supposedly about vengeance ( or was it ??) , but the FL was so grating that I lost the plot entirely. I had to skip most of the drama just to finish it. It’s a shame because the poster makes her look badass, but the character is just a joke. To the creators: please, never make a "strong" female character like this ever again. Definitely a shitty drama.

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Love Again

I could feel the hatred and anger Yu was feeling. I could feel the pain and regret Sam was feeling. every time they cried, my heart broke into a million pieces :’( and that chemistry is literally so good! it left me wanting for a 3rd season 😭

one thing I didn’t like about this season is the second couple (Shi De’s cousin and coworker). I could not care less about their story and was pretty much skipping every scene they had. i would rather have some of those screentime for our main couple, or Bing Wei and Zhe Yu.

also, i will NEVER forgive the editors for deleting the scene where they explain that the blonde woman was Shi De’s step sister. it was literally such a crucial scene, and carried so much importance to the story. if they hadn’t left out such a vital information, the reception of this season would’ve been so much better. I don’t know what made them come up with such a stupid decision of deleting that scene😭

sigh….i know it’s already been 5 years, but i will be secretly dreaming for a 3rd season🥹

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Absolutely devastating in every way...

This drama was honestly so good! The story was so interesting and while the romance was more of a subplot in this drama, I think that it was still there, although subtle. I remember seeing somewhere that ZLH got hate for Gong Ziyu, and I honestly don't really understand why? I mean, sure, his character isn't as "interesting" as, say, Cheng Lei's character, Gong Shangjue, but I still absolutely adored his role here.

Gong Ziyu is someone who is described to "soft-hearted," and while that is true, he is also someone that is extremely intelligent, more so than he lets on. Overall, though, he is extremely loyal and also willing to bear the consequences of falling for Esther Yu's character, Yun Weishan. He is someone who is perfectly imperfect, but also loves Weishan despite the fact that she was sent there to assassinate him. Despite finding out that she is an enemy spy, he still continues to spare her life, even refusing to turn her in when she begs him to. He refuses to give up on her, despite the circumstances. He is fiercely protective of her, and his love for those he cares about, such as his sister, Gong Zi Shang. (one of my favorite characters in this drama, btw, she's absolutely hilarious!) He loves Weishan despite the fact that she's supposed to be his enemy, and that her people were responsible for the tragedies that befell the Gong residence years and years ago.

Esther Yu's acting definitely surprised me here. I am used to her playing naive or "cutesy" characters, and her role of Yun Weishan was the complete opposite of her other roles. She should honestly get more roles like these in the future, for I think it shows that she's way more than the cutesy roles that she is known for. I thought that this role allowed her to show her versatility as an actress, as well as showcase a completely different side of herself. I honestly was so impressed by her acting in this drama, as her character is supposed to be this cold, "unfeeling" assassin that should take lives without question. Despite, that, though, her vulnerability and softer side still shine through, especially when it comes to the death of her younger sister, Yun Que.

The acting of Cheng Lei and Lu Yuxiao was so impressive!! Their characters are both equally cunning and intelligent, and I can see why many wanted them to end up together, despite the fact that their dynamic was a little "toxic." I will say, though, that Lu Yuxiao should definitely play these kinds of roles more. I think they really suit her. Cheng Lei's acting was also equally as impressive! His acting is honestly so underrated, and it was such a contrast to his character in How Dare You, who is a bit goofier, in a sense. He's honestly such a versatile actor.

I will say, the only gripe that I had with this drama was the ending. It honestly haunts me and left me with so many questions. Like what happened to Weishan??? And what happened to Shangguan Qian (Lu Yuxiao's character???) after she left? Overall, the drama was genuinely so good, but I just wish we got a much better ending than the one we got.

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✨Scooby-Doo Gang, Swoon Lines & Suspicious Poison — I Had Fun✨

This turned out to be a surprisingly fun watch, not gonna lie.

The visuals? Pretty. The soundtrack? Slightly recycled, but still doing its job. The plot and characters? Somehow had me locked in before I even realized it.
The story starts off a bit… questionable (you will raise an eyebrow or two), but if you just go with it, it becomes genuinely entertaining. It’s one of those dramas where you don’t overthink — you just vibe.

The FL is super easy to love — sweet, a little naive, but not in a frustrating way. Just a total cutie that you naturally root for.
The ML… took me a minute. I wasn’t sold at first, but he grew on me. And when he did — oh, he delivered. His love turns soft and gentle, and the man dropped some swoon-worthy lines, I’ll give him that. Their chemistry is comfortable and cute, and the romance is actually very tender and lovely. We get proper kisses from episode 11 👀 and decent skinship throughout.

Now… the Gu poison plotline? Yeah. Not my favorite. It just didn’t fully click for me. Also, lowkey it felt like I was watching the Butterflied Lover origin story, but maybe that’s just me spiraling.

The second leads? Honestly, a highlight.
The SFL is an absolute gem — kind, mature, and refreshingly drama-free. No petty jealousy, no unnecessary rivalry — just wholesome female friendship vibes, which we LOVE to see.
And the SML? I’ve been sold on him since LITC, and once again — he ate. Whether he’s being a menace or a ride-or-die homie, he delivers.

We also get the whole squad teaming up like a historical Scooby-Doo gang, which was unexpectedly wholesome.
As for the “evil emperor”… yeah, okay. Groundbreaking. Let me act surprised.

Of course, it comes with classic short-drama struggles: rushed pacing, overused tropes (you saved me as a child so now I owe you my entire existence), a sprinkle of amnesia, random love triangle energy… and a bit of clownery around episodes 16–17.
The final stretch loses some suspense and drags a little, but it’s nothing deal-breaking.

We do get a happy ending for the main couple (bless), and a more open ending for the second leads — which, honestly, I didn’t mind. The SFL might’ve been my favorite character overall.

If you go in with an open mind and don’t expect a masterpiece, this is actually a really enjoyable watch.
I had way more fun than I expected — especially compared to some “big” dramas lately.
Only complaint? MGTV subtitles… why are you like this 😭 Full screen = no subtitles?? Be serious.

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I'm supposed to hate it but I actually love it

This show has all the things that I HATE in other shows but somehow I love it here.

Jane and Z are very surface level characters. We don't know much about them and their backstories don't add much to their personalities. Jane is somehow struggling to have money in the beginning but has a huge house and every other luxury one wants.
There is so much 'cute' animation sounds and stickers lined up in the series. Most of the show is just the actors being cute with each other.
All of this is just things I hate. Matter of fact many other well loved gls have all these and I hated them but somehow I really didn't mind it here.
Jane and Z were so cute. Their relationship progression felt real. Jane just being an overall cheerful person combined with shy, naive and a bit underconfident Z was a good trope. Them both slowly getting into a routine together, Z getting her confidence, them having small flirty moments through which they get bolder.....all that did amuse me.
The fantasy aspect of the whole angel thing helped even though the resolution did not make sense. I even liked the whole plot to finding Z's identity, the 6 connections idea.
I really liked the leads and the whole cast. The sets were also good, very fitting for the series.
I am not a big fan of the whole fixed pairing system but I would really like to see these two together in another show

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Great ACTING - "A Cavalcade of Stars" as they would say in the 30s

This is a very decent drama, very pretty, and a commercial for the tea industry and the history of China's tea culture (watch after the credits). Some company or government office paid the movie producers very well for this.

I came to see Neo Hou and he was pretty good and beyond handsome, as always. I love watching him act, no matter what he is in. To be honest, he has such STAR power that I am always watching Neo Hou, not the actual character. It's kind of like watching Arnold Schwarzenegger or Bruce Willis: no matter their role, I am watching the STAR.

Actors
I've seen Neo Hou be more emotive, but his character and the FL's character didn't really allow it much. He was sweetest at the beginning, when he was trying to connect with the FL. I especially LOVED seeing some of my favorite short drama stars in this, such as Liu Qing and Li Fei, who are more handsome here than ever and great actors, even more so than usual. You really got to see them ACT. I hope they stay in these longer dramas, as I think that they will have better support and opportunities here than in the "seat of your pants" short dramas with no resources. Also loved my fav pretty guy, Zhao Yi Qin, who lost so much weight for this role that I am nervous about his health. He did an excellent job all around. All the secondary actors and actresses did a GREAT job. Loved Chen Ruo Xuan, who has put in his time in comedies as the CEO's assistant. He is also a great actor here; we saw his wounded soul.

Really, everyone's acting was superb, such as Leanne Liu as the Grandmother. But I want to give a SPECIAL shout out to Cao Jun, whom I haven't noticed before. First, he is beyond handsome. More important, he was extraordinary in portraying a man at the breaking point, both physically and emotionally. He was the most sympathetic character in the entire show, and you just wanted to weep for him. He should definitely be proud of his work here and I hope to see more of him.

In that same point in the show, Sophia Hu's work as Lady Chang can't be overlooked. Talk about emotional honesty.

*****I really feel that this show was all about actors being given a chance to show their skills. They really drove the entire drama, almost like an actor's showcase, with the ML and FL just being the hosts of the show.

Story
The story was well done, with four or five "situations" that moved it along in sequence. One thing I didn't like about the story is that the people would do terrible things to each other and then "make up" with each other as the situation changed. I don't believe that this is how society works, at least not in the US. When a person does terrible things to you, you don't eventually become besties or lovers. Sorry. This forgiveness of evil was woven throughout the show and I don't get it. It really bothered me especially in the last two episodes when someone did terrible things to get their way and it was considered "what a person does to survive." Hey, it wasn't war time, no one was in a concentration camp starving. These were just evil choices, but we all smile and wish each other well at the end? Didn't like it. I also didn't like another aspect of the story, as I mention below.

Love Story POSSIBLE SPOILER
As in most of these big budget C-dramas, I shouldn't have expected any sexy romance. It was even more lacking in this one, since the FL was supposed to be strong as iron and smart as a whip and the ML was supposed to be scheming and out for revenge. I do see how they connected and the attraction and admiration they have for each other (even though other viewers didn't (Hint: they are both the same type of person)), BUT to NEVER come to a point in the relationship where the FL is HONEST with the ML and fully sharing and communicating with him is out-and-out terrible. What kind of romance is this? All manipulation and no point in which they are ONE in thinking and DOING. Even up to the very end? This is a quite terrible idea and should have been changed by someone in charge. I really couldn't support the couple, as she remained aloof and following her own plans the ENTIRE time, and hurt the ML quite badly on more than one occasion. It was only through tremendous force of will that it all worked out. (Is this the new framework for romance? Man allows the woman to repeatedly "kick" him and still goes on loving her? If so, I've really been on the short end my entire life. I should have had that opportunity, too!)

Bottom line, enjoy seeing the actors and the acting and forget the romance being romantic (even with the secondary romances).

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Chaotically Messy but Weirdly Real

Perhaps Love was one of those movies I discovered through a random short clip that instantly made me curious. It looked fun, awkward, and chaotic and thankfully, that’s exactly what it delivered. The comedy here isn’t the loud slapstick type. It’s more awkward, situational, and rooted in how messy human relationships can get, which honestly made it even funnier for me.

What surprised me is that beneath all the chaos, there’s actual depth and emotion tucked into the story. The relationships and situations are so oddly intertwined that I kept thinking, “대박 말도 안돼” because what are the chances of all these connections happening? But at the same time… life really does get absurd like that sometimes. That mix of ridiculousness and realism somehow works in the movie’s favor.

It’s not my usual kind of film, but I genuinely enjoyed it until the end. I kept bracing myself for what insane or emotional thing would happen next, and that unpredictability made the whole ride entertaining. Messy, strange, emotional, and unexpectedly relatable in its own bizarre way.

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My Favorite Drama - & here's why...

Just to be clear, this contains spoilers; so it's more for discussion rather than a recommendation - Although I do recommend it.

This was my second Asian drama series ever watched and having now watched about 70, I recognise it has unfortunately set a high bar.

The acting is good if a little wooden at times, but I think that is more due to the dialogue scenes being set up like a stage play. (Probably while standing on a bridge.) I think Jung So-min and Lee Jae-wook have great chemistry that builds authentically over the 20 episodes making the payoff in episode 20 so SO GOOD. The supporting cast really sold their roles too. Lot's of different personality types portrayed really well. I hated Jin Mu just the right amount; was wary but hopeful of the crown prince just the right amount; Cheerful with Park Dang Gu just the right amount; Intrigued by Seo Yul just the right amount. Really well cast.

Also a nod to the English dubbing. These days i find most dubbing awful and watch with subtitles but I thought these guys sold it.

The OST is amazing. I listen to it all the time. My only complaint is I can't find on Spotify, a version of Scars Leave Beautiful Trace that has the slightly off-beat metal ringing that's in the actual show. I'll keep looking.

World building: The incorporation of Korean history with fantasy elements to create the setting is really amazing. the personal and power interaction between elemental energy and divine powers is very cool. The background strife, drought and relics give the writers plenty of tools to help flesh out the story.

Story: The ML & FL have their mutual problems (Mu Deok a once powerful mage has lost her energy. Jang Uk has incredible potential but has no one will unblock his gate of energy.) They by chance meet and decide to help one another within a disguised symbiotic relationship. Their backgrounds inform their actions; Naksu / Mu Deok is ruthless and calculating and Jang Uk is clever, privileged but also somewhat naive. Their joint mission is to train Jang Uk up so he can transfer his power back to Mu Deok. They always move forward, with Mu Deok throwing Jang Uk into danger again and again and him 'failing-forward' to the best of his ability. This culminates in episode 18 where for reasons, they both decide to give away all their hard won achievements, leaving them only with each other and a new shared fate as husband & wife. I love the part in ep 19 where Jang Uk has to tell his 'mother' Maidservant Kim that who he's marrying. Classic.

Now; the crux of why I really like the show and - in hindsight - why I like it better than other k Dramas:
Both are resolute in their commitment to their cause and to each other. As their relationship evolves from one of convenience to one of dependence and then love, their honesty and commitment to each other never wavers (Except for the part with Kil Joo but that is a great relationship development moment for them both.)
I love it how they are both open and honest with each other,
Mu Deok Casually, "Yeah I stole and tried to sell the spirit plaque" Jang Uk just accepts it without comment even though he had been beaten severely for loosing it;
Mu Deok to Seo Yul, "I stole Jang Uk's money to go drinking and buy nice things. Do you want to come in?" leaving him dumbfounded.
Jang Uk always being forthright with his feeling towards Mu Deok, "I missed you too."
Step by step, the pragmatism and devotion of their relationship leaves no cracks for others. Even Seo Yul who has significant leverage has a tough time.

Seo Yul: "I like pine pollen tea snacks"
Shop Keeper to Mu Deok, "Would you like some?"
Mu Deok: "No." (Boom, shut down.)

Heo Yoon Ok to Jang Uk: "I made you a hangover cure, would you like..." *Jang uk has already turned and walked 20 feet away.*

One of my favorite parts (ep 10) is when Jang Uk finally gets into Songrim and they belatedly realise that it's separated them. All goals are put on hold and independently, both of them hyper-focus on getting back together again. It's really fun to watch.

It's also fun to see the friend circle evolve and recognise Mu Deok's special status as more than just Jang Uk's servant and they start to include her more as their own friend. An important evolution which has an impact in episode 20. (SO GOOD.) This is often recognised by other characters as, "Mu Deok, the servant that's always by his side."

So unlike a lot of dramas where the ML & FL constantly bounce off each other to unconvincingly end up together in the finale, Alchemy of Souls shows their relationship evolving and strengthening from within. All the drama is them leaning on each other to fight external conflicts together. I like this framework best.

Confession: I've literally watched this show - without exaggeration - ten billion times; and I still love it.

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I’m genuinely surprised by how deeply this drama moved me. What I expected to be a simple novel adaptation became something far more tender, reflective, and beautifully made. It proves that short dramas can still carry the emotional weight of a full novel or film when created with care.
And yes, I've seen other reviews and as the storyline may be little unrealistic and cliche, but the heart of the story is not in the setup. It is in the truth of its emotions. If you strip away the labels, what remains is a story about two people learning how to love each other gently, respectfully, and with patience. In a time where many romances confuse love with urgency, lust, or spectacle, this series reminds us that love can also be quiet. It can be shown through consistency, consideration, and the soft accumulation of small acts. These were what stopped me from fast forwarding episodes or watching at x1.5 speed (which I often almost always do NGL).
IMO the slow burn was one of its greatest strengths. Some may find it too slow? but real love rarely blooms overnight. Attraction may be instant, but intimacy is built through time, trust, and shared moments. This series understands that, so every emotional step feels earned.
Also similar to many other reviews have touched on, I so agree that what elevated it further was the production itself. The cinematography was elegant, the pacing precise, and every scene felt intentional. There were no unnecessary villains, no hollow drama, no wasted characters. Even side characters served a purpose, helping us understand family wounds, emotional patterns, and what healthy love can look like in contrast. The writing was restrained and intelligent, never overly cheesy, never trying too hard. The Mandarin dialogue in particular felt poetic, which made the experience even richer.
What touched me most was how real the emotions felt. Some scenes made me cry, others made me giggle along with them. There was something so raw and sincere in their tenderness that it made me reflect on my own life, my own understanding of love, and the ways people care for one another.
This series is not just about romance, it is about being human: as lovers, as children, as family. I honestly wasn’t expecting this level of artistry from a vertical drama, but it became one of those rare stories that lingers after it ends.

My only dissatisfaction: I wanted more of the elder sister’s love story!!! Season 2, maybe?

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Started off great but then became flat with common plot, bland acting and lack of chemistry

I was preparing a reddit post about vertical drama actresses aged 35 and above and came across Shu Chang. I decided to watch this drama because it stars Ma Qian Huan & Han Jia Hui too. I am familiar with revenge historical drama with concubine setting and this offered nothing new.

What I liked:
1. Han Jia Hui - It was great to see her playing a villain even though it was a supporting role. Even though food poisoning scene supposed to be a serious scene, HJH made it funny.
2. Opening scene - A great scene that establish the villain & FL's vengeance arc.
3. Styling - Loved the outfits worn by the cast.
4. Supporting characters - I liked Yao Yao & the Eunuch.
5. Revenge - I liked that FL's plan to bring down the villain included punishing her accomplices and manipulating ML.

What I disliked:
1. Acting - Shu Chang was the main reason I watched this drama but her performance here was flat. She didn't convey much expressions. There was also no chemistry between her and Ma Qian Huan.
2. Romance - Due to the lack of chemistry, I didn't buy the attraction between FL & ML.
3. Antagonists - Han Jia Hui's character was evil as she killed innocent people. Gu Shi Xian was horrible too.

Favourite scene
The opening

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