I intended to write about this drama in 2022, but life got in the way.
After a second viewing, I’m finally here to share my thoughts.
Zhao Pan Er (Crystal Liu) is a clever teahouse owner in Qiantang. After discovering that her fiancé (Xu Hai Qiao) has left her for another woman, she embarks on a journey to the capital, Bian Jing. Along the way, she saves her two best friends, who decide to join her on her quest.
In Bian Jing, Gu Qian Fan (Chen Xiao), a commander in the elite capital security squadron known as the "Living Devil," finds himself framed in a conspiracy involving the imperial court. He crosses paths with Zhao Pan Er, and despite their initial disagreements, they form an alliance. As they work together to uncover the truth, their bond deepens.
What I love about this Chinese period idol drama is:
1. The chemistry between the lead couple is electric; it feels mature and believable, even though in real life a man with an extremely scary nickname, who was abandoned by his biological father in his childhood, and now spends his work day torturing people should be a red flag. Our female lead has a past too; her imperial official father's downfall lowered her status to dancer( same level as a courtesan - but she never served as one), she has to struggle through many trials to return to normal citizen status. I watched with English subtitles so I know there is a lot lost in translation. I understood that they are mature couple who accepted that they each have a past, and wanted to live life their way. From some online discussions, there were a few things I missed due to translation...
2. The sisterhood among the three women is supportive and genuine, as they advise, build businesses and live life together. The earlier depression scenes played by Ada Liu made my heart arc for her plight as single mother. There is jealousy and misunderstandings but they show up when things are important like chosen families do. When Song Yin Zhang (Jelly Lin) goes off with that second man (Sun Zu Jun) I nearly lost it, please learn the lesson the first time around nyabo.
3. You end up rooting for everyone—the leads and the ensemble cast (Dai Xu, Zhang Xiao Qian, Wang Luo Yang, Guan Yeng Peng)—bringing the story together beautifully...They push the series forward. This is one #cdrama where I didn't feel like the forty episodes were dragging and the use of politics to highlight life themes such as family, class and social status was done well. I was engaged all the way through, laughing, blushing, crying , cringing and worrying. It's a good watch!
4. Some scenes are magical, from the first fight scene in the tea house to the the live performance recreation of famous period paintings you'll be mesmerized.
10/10
What were you thoughts? Share below.
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