Don't hesitate, just watch.

I almost missed out on this series because I wasn't sold on Chen Zhe Yuan being cast for the main lead. Not having seen him in anything else, I erroneously thought he was another pretty face with little to show for. This was one of those rare occasion where I have been proven wrong and credit should be given where credit is due.

Summary:

The story follows Nan Xing a young woman navigating adulthood with crippling anxiety brought about by the tragic loss of her father and first love. After the tragedy, Nan Xing would immerse herself in reading mystery novels and fanfiction writing to self-sooth. Luckily, she is resilient and tries to carve out as normal of a life as she possibly can for herself. She longed to be love and be loved just like any girl coming into her womanhood. One day, she found herself in front of a wishing fountain thinking out loud her desire for an "unforgettable love". And as fate would have it, a fairy who has been watching over Nan Xing decided he would fulfill her wish. Swept into a dream, Nan Xing awoke with a strange man next to her. Later it will be revealed the man is actually the ruthless and evil villain, she had created in her fanfiction named Xiao Wu Di. Hilarity and chaos ensue as Nan Xing tries to manage an evil villain who she can't seem to shake off.

Plot:

The series beams with "feel good" vibes and I can appreciate the uncomplicated and easy to digest plot. It is a gratifying take on the "Isekai" genre and I am here for it. Expect a lot of laughs and angsty tension between the ML and FL. While I wish the character Nan Xing has been given the same attention as Xiao Wu Di in individual development, I can appreciate the effort that was taken to ensure both the 1st female and male lead and the 2nd female and male lead's relationship progressed naturally and are believable. Contrary to what I have read about the 2nd female and 2nd male lead's relationship, I quite enjoy their story and found it to be sweet and satisfying.

Acting:

Shen Yue
I am saying this as a Shen Yue fan, and I take no pleasure in doing so, while I love Shen Yue's portrayal of Nan Xing, I hate that she is typecasted in roles that limits the range I know she is capable of displaying. Nan Xing (Mr. Bad), Dong Shancai (Meteor Garden), Shi Shuang Jiao (Use for My Talent), and Chen Xiao Xi (A Love So Beautiful) might as well be the same character with varying names. Poor Yue Yue cannot help but to portray the roles she is handed, and while she does a good job at bringing the characters to life, it weakens her performance. I sincerely hope her team will work hard at helping her break free from these roles so that she is given the opportunity to grow beyond what we have seen her done.

Chen Zhe Yuan
It was a colossal mistake on my part to underestimate CZY. I was very impressed by his portrayal of XWD. Just watch how XWD looks at the Nan Xing as he began to realize his feelings for her. CZY does such a wonderful job at conveying feelings without speaking a word. It's these little nuances that makes his portrayal of XWD so delightful to watch. He is definitely an actor to watch out for in the future.

I think everyone should give this series a go. You will enjoy the ride and before you know it, you will find yourself back at episode one excited to give it a go again.

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A Mesmerizing Slow-Burn Romance That Will Steal Your Heart

If you’re looking for a romance that sticks with you long after the credits roll, Smile Code might just be the hidden gem you didn’t know you needed. This slow-burn series isn't about flashy drama or whirlwind passion—it’s a deeply human story about love, growth, and connection, told with breathtaking visuals and stellar performances.

Set against a visually striking moody backdrop, Smile Code creates a world that is as mesmerizing as it is atmospheric. The cinematography is a work of art, drawing you into its vibrant, neon-lit world and richly evocative corridors—an ideal backdrop for the layered and deeply heartfelt story to unfold.

Acting:

At the heart of it all are Lin Yi and Shen Yue, whose performances elevate the series to something truly special. Lin Yi, as Dai Wen, delivers a masterclass in subtlety, portraying a character wrestling with internal struggles with depth and nuance. Meanwhile, Shen Yue, as Gu Yi, wears her heart on her sleeve, infusing every scene with raw emotion that makes her journey both relatable and profoundly moving. Together, they breathe life into characters who feel imperfectly, beautifully real.

Story:

The story itself reminds us of an undeniable truth: love is messy and unpredictable, especially when it’s between flawed individuals trying to make sense of their feelings. Through its tender moments and heartfelt dialogue, Smile Code teaches us the importance of kindness—both to others and to ourselves—and the courage it takes to embrace love, even when it feels impossibly complicated.

What makes this series shine is its ability to slow things down and let its relationships simmer. The main couple’s mutual longing is palpable, their love spoken in stolen glances and unspoken words, creating a tension that makes every small gesture feel monumental. And just when you think you've figured it out, the second couple brings their own unique spark to the story, offering a fresh and equally compelling perspective on love and growth.

Music:

The music ties everything together, perfectly complementing the tone of each scene. Whether it’s a tender moment or a gut-wrenching confession, the soundtrack amplifies the emotional depth, making it impossible not to feel fully immersed in the story.

Conclusion:

Yes, Smile Code is a slow burn. It’s a show that takes its time, especially in the first eight episodes, to build its world and flesh out its characters. But stick with it, and you’ll be rewarded with a deeply satisfying and profoundly touching experience. Watching these flawed yet resilient characters fight for their connection against all odds is grounding, relatable, and ultimately, incredibly rewarding.

If you appreciate romance that’s more about the journey than the destination—and love stories that celebrate imperfection—Smile Code is a must-watch. Give it a chance, and you might just fall in love with it, too.

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