So, yes, this drama had some of the stereotypical elements: the spoiled, rich and arrogant ML with a tragic backstory; the hard-working, virtuous FL; the love triangle with ML, 2ML & FL as well as another with ML, FL and 2FL; the scheming underhanded business competitor; a scheming co-worker fixated on the good FL success, the extreme scenarios (kidnapping, complete business failure, massive neurological disease with hospitalization, etc.). But the character and relationship development, dialogue and overarching structure allowed for a richer storyline with complex situations. How so?

character development: several characters underwent transformations over the course of the show. Many moved beyond their selfish viewpoints to acknowledge multiple perspectives and focus on the good things around them. While the transformations sometimes stretched believability, I loved the way kindness could catalyze the smallest hearts to grow. From a slandering colleague to a relentlessly selfish 2FL and co-worker prioritizing ambition over his girlfriend, each became a better, more open-minded, generous and sensitive person.

Deng Lun was a big draw for me to start watching this, but I found myself impressed with each of the actors who played in roles that stretched across the series. Director Mu (Tan Kevin) and Hui Men (Li Xiao Feng) were surprise favorites. Zhu Yi Long as the 2ML gave a richly multi-faceted performance. And even Mei Mei (Li Xin Yi) and Zuh-er Luo (Xu Has) were scintillating by the end.

relationship development: the writers are fairly transparent as they show even the most idealized or long-term relationship might develop tension between people with very different life dreams. We observe the tensions as each longs for their intended lifestyle with their loved one. Characters are not villainized when their expectations don't align with reality of the other person. For some compromise is possible and for others, they sadly part ways. And unlike other dramas, this story shows how people can go on together after that parting. Even the executive of 20 years who abandons his company during a crisis finds a way to reconcile with the CEO. And the overbearing parent acknowledges their contributions to relational rifts. We get to see more substantively founded relationships where forgiveness can occur. This is between parents and children, spouses, in-laws, bosses, colleagues and subordinates as well as boyfriends and girlfriends.

dialogue: one of my favorite lines was when the FL asked the 2ML to stop trying to manipulate her with love. I could look back on my own relationships and think about times when I acquiesced to that sort of machination, when I let the other person's dreams take precedence over my own. I also appreciated the FL's parents who came and observed. Without denigrating anyone or trying to make choices for their daughter, they shared thoughtful words of caution. Then later, there is great talk laced throughout the movie to explore what it means to have a home rather than a building to live in.

overarching structure: with a realtor shop as the context, viewers get to watch other people's stories as they seek a new home. Very little is obscured. We see the overly-expectant pushy parents with a young child; a family of 6 adults (spouses, maternal parents, paternal parents) that wants a home in Shanghai; a couple attempting to defraud potential buyers out of an intentional contract; a relative afraid of ghosts who seeks a full refund and many more. Inevitably tensions emerge as resources and timelines do not always align.

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed watching this. It was both more edifying and more emotionally multi-faceted than the standard drama. Without moralizing or being preachy, My True Friend facilitated reflection on my previous relationships and even made me want to be a better person.