The little things brushed up onscreen, and a little more

“Your next life form will be an anteater.
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Alternatively, if you would like to rebirth into your desired life form, you can restart your life again to collect enough good karma.”

~~~~~

The choice is obvious here - of course many would pick to restart and try again. Unless you are okay eating ants. But since Kondo Asami doesn’t want to, she pick to restart her life again.

Rebirth stories aren’t anything new. In fact, it has likely developed into a popular genre on its own these recent years.

What’s unique about Brush Up Life is the simple plot on collecting enough good deeds to qualify being human in your next life and the focus on the relatable, little things in life. As we follow through Asami-chan’s 2nd, 3rd and so forth chances at life, we see her going through the relatable daily grinds most of us has been through. Such as puberty, friendship, studying, dating, fitting in, and of course,
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helping out a little more so Asami-chan can cultivate good enough karma to be human again.

It’s not the adrenaline pumping stuff like stopping a terrorist or saving the life of her lover.

Rather, there is something heartwarming about Brush Up Life’s relatable conversations and internal monologues on the day to day stuffs we experience in life - rebirth or no rebirth. Situations like giving a lot of caveats before complaining about unwanted freebies. Or texting emojis with blank expressions. I especially enjoyed Asami-chan’s chats with the Rebirth Officer at the station. Her reactions and the subtle personality shifts are apt.

Things that likely make you go “Yes, that’s right, I do that too”…maybe. The little things in life.

Another thing that is done interestingly and equally relatable is the account of Asami-chan’s day to day struggles in her various professions. Each life, her chosen profession is different. Each time, while there’s something a little different that she stumbled on, they remain situations and moments that we will relate to.
In her 1st life, she was a government worker who struggled with layers of cumbersome approval process and choosing the right greetings to customers.
In her 2nd life, she was a pharmacist who went through thorough checks to ensure right medicine were prescribed and constantly reminding her loved ones to drink medicine with water because it affects the absorption rate.
In her 3rd life, she was a TV producer who worked hard to arrange the right order for artists on closing credits and dealing with childhood friend’s request to be casted on dramas for friendship appearance.
In her 4th life, she was a researcher who patiently researched on scientific breakthrough and diligently resetting the focus of shared microscope in the lab.
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until the little more Brush Up stuff happened. The adrenaline pumping stuff to spice things up.

In her 4th life, Asami-chan found out that she’s not the only person who went through multiple rounds of rebirths. Mari-chan, her childhood friend who always got top grade back in school also went through rebirth. What’s more, it’s her 5th cycle.

Turns out Mari-chan was the one that got the typical main character rebirth script. Since her 2nd life, she has been trying to save a plane crash that took 2 of Asami-chan best friends. 2 whom were also her childhood friends.

There’s no brainer what Asami-chan would choose when she was given a 5th chance. Even if this time she finally accumulated enough karma to be born human (not as Kondo Asami). Even if this is her final chance at rebirth (meaning there’s no more trying again).

To round it up, Brush Up Life successfully drums in the message that it’s the little things in life that matters. No matter which profession we are, there’ll be many little struggles we deal with. No matter how long we live, the thing that make us feel a little less lonely is the connections we made and maintained in life. Because they are the ones who made the little things not so little and worth living.

Leia Mais

An origin story of superheroes’ parents

When I first tuned in to Moving, I thought it is another cliche Disney+ superhero series - the likes of Marvel with an Asian flavour. Here comes the but…Moving is a superheroes series that was done right. More aptly speaking, imagine this as an origin story of x-men if they were parents.

I am not one who fancy flashbacks. Moving uses it well though - each scene draws me further in, made me want to understand about Mi Hyun and her protectiveness more, to hope Doo Shik is safe, as well as to cheer for Joo Won and Jae Man for every punch, even if they are already superheroes themselves.

While we were first introduced to the story via Bong Seok’s perspective, I feel that this is really a Joo Won, Mi Hyun and Doo Shik story - on their battles, on their love stories and on their journey as parents who just want their children safe. We may start the story from the children’s present timeline. But we appreciate the actions and decisions the parents’ choose at present through understanding their past experiences.

This is what made Moving feels unique - despite all the unique abilities these people already possess, they are just like us. Civilians who struggles to break free from shackles of unfair expectations placed on them, and parents who want a better life for their kids.

What’s even greater is the cast’s chemistry and acting. It made for quite a satisfying viewing experience to have great actors and actresses bring out the characters’ energy and complexity on screen. No one is a weak link in this ensemble cast.

The fight scenes are a little too gruesome for my taste. Especially since some of characters have regenerative ability, the script does not hesitate to use all sorts of creative ways for the character to “die” and regenerate. It surreal I suppose, supported with great cinematography and visual effects befitting of the characters’ abilities.

Ultimately, I would say that Moving is a simple story about a group of parents wanting their children to live a life free from being controlled and manipulated by the wrong parties.

Leia Mais

Finding life’s meaning through a sport

I am not interested in Go. But I love a good sport centric or solid character development story.

And Hikaru no Go nails it - essence of what makes for a great sport / competition centric story.

True to good Japanese sports animes’ spirit, Hikaru no Go has well fitted cast which brings out the characters on screen, solid storyline which makes us care for the characters’ growth and journey, and lovely relationship dynamics - be it mentor-mentee, rivals or friends.

1. Acting and cast
First things first, what drew me in first was young Shi Guang played by Lucas Lu. What made me stayed after was older Shi Guang played by Hu Xian Xu. Shi Guang is one of the typical leads of “hidden talent who started late” troupe in sports story. They both nail this character well and manage to maintain the consistency even when it’s played by 2 different people. They piqued my interest and made me care for Shi Guang’s journey and development with Go. From not knowing what it is, to tolerating it because of Chu Ying, to learning about it and then to taking it seriously.

Both of them also had great chemistry with Chu Ying, played by Zhang Cao. This is important because it’s the story’s backbone and spirit. Chu Ying was a spirit who can only interact with Shi Guang throughout and the one who introduced the latter to Go. If this mentor-mentee dynamic didn’t work out, it means Shi Guang’s connection to Go won’t be as believable. Kudos to all 3 actors and their dynamics.

Other actors and actresses were also well casted, which adds to the enjoyment of this live adaptation.

2. Storyline and character development
Next, the pacing of storyline was done well.

I hadn’t read the manga before, so it probably helped considering I didn’t have any biased lens watching this.

The show first started with young Shi Guang playing Go reluctantly because of Chu Ying. Thereafter, he picked up Go again during high school because of an incident with his school mates. I enjoyed how the show took time to tease this part out and to establish this context for Shi Guang. I may not know or interested in Go. But I cared for Shi Guang, which then extends to the thing that Shi Guang came to love - Go.

Thus, I got invested in his improvement after he found his own motivation and interest in Go - not because of Chu Ying, not because of extra pocket money, not because of his ego, not because of his friends.

Every improvement and a small win by Shi Guang gave me a smile.

3. Relationship dynamic
Great sports stories are made up by characters who have a devotion and dedication to said sports as our main lead dived deeper into it. In Hikaru no Go, we see characters’ relationship with each other and with Go.

How lovely, to understand the characters motivation and to follow their discovery / learning of themselves through the game of Go and with each other. I still know nothing of Go after watching this (because I kinda zoned out whenever they got too much into the technicalities of it), but it never hindered my understanding of the characters’ motivation or traits or quirks.

I particularly loved Chu Ying’s battle with Yu Xiao Yang - on their 领悟 (learnings) from their inevitable face off. It stands to show how learning is boundless and everyone has their own unique journey / lesson on mastering an art.

While Yu Liang was supposedly the rival of Shi Guang, I somehow can’t seem to connect much to their dynamics. Not that the storyline or the actors’ chemistry were bad. Just other things - be it moments, characters or friendships- seem to drew me in more.

Ultimately, my favorite dynamic remains Chu Ying and Shi Guang.

Nevertheless, I rated Hikaru no Go at 8.5 because the story and cast didn’t managed to draw me in completely to the Go world. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think one requires to know Go to enjoy this story - just like I did. While it’s barely hit the mark for me, it might for you.

Leia Mais

Addictive chemistry of supporting…I mean main leads

After growing up with love stories of Mary Sue’s heroine being saved by Domineering CEO’s, many rom coms and comics start having “villain” characters being the leads.

And it works. Somehow, it’s always entertaining to watch old fashion troupes being “mocked” at.

In Night of Love with You, our story begins when Qiqi realised that she mistakenly took on the female lead role in a new comic story. Left without any way to contact her comic center supervisor, she tried to move the plot along so the story can restart.

First things first, I particularly have a soft spot for transmigration characters because the characters would typically be smarter or more unapologetically cunning. Qiqi fits the bill of the type of character I like - her monologues on some of the old fashioned moments she’s forced to go through as the “female lead” are funny. Another entertaining thing about transmigration stories are the “fish out of water” moments, especially in the beginning of the stories when the main leads are adapting to a new world. I am able to accept that they’re over-the-top actions or slight arrogance because these characters think they are different anyways. Kudos if the execution of these weird moments are done in a way that humble back the leads - like how Qiqi thought she knew how things work, but eventually realised she was not invincible with her “knowledge”.

Second, the chemistry between her and Leng Yehan is great. While their dynamic is one of the classic romance couples of all, the bickering couple, the chemistry of the actor and actress is there. They challenge each other, they keep up with each other, and they kiss. What’s not to like.

Lastly, the production team made the right decision by making this a short length drama. This makes it easier for me to close 1.5 eyes on the logic plot holes that weren’t addressed - which is mainly the rules of this comic world work.

Hence, for those who are (1) looking for an entertaining short rom com, (2) characters with wit, and (3) bickering couples with chemistry, have your night with Night of Love With You.

Leia Mais

Numbers don’t lie, or do they?

3530.
3530 of discrepancy in tax payment that should be shared with 7 other districts.
3530 tax payment error meets with an autistics mathematical genius that’s obsessed with accuracy, and boom, we have our story.

As Shuai Jiamo brings his appeal on the case to the court, he is met with various obstacles and attempt of murders on his life. That’s because once tax and other districts are involved, we have interest of people to consider.

What makes this story engaging for me is the multi-faceted magistrates that come into the story. I love the honest (one-sided) discussion they had with Shuai Jiamo on why they could not support his appeal even if they think he is right simply because they have their people’s interest to protect. And ironically, they only share their true stance with Shuai Jiamo because they know he only care about numbers, and not the complex burden of human desires.

Addition of Chen Renqing veiled moral principles to the mix further add colors to a supposedly dry story.

Despite my enjoyment of Under the Microscope, I recognise this isn’t a show for everyone. This is a show, microscopically for people who have interest in politics, psychology, math, finance system, and history.

I’d also recommend watching this 14-episode in one go. There are many informations and facts to take note after all.
- How does Shuai Jiamo proof that his district had overpaid 3530 tax amount for over 100 years?
- Why and how 3530 tax error draws the interest of a local tyrant?
- How does it links with the death of Shuai Jiamo’s parents 20 years ago?

Still following? Have fun with Under the Microscope.

Leia Mais

A detective fan favourite series

Girlfriend died of drowning in a room devoid of water. Few years later, encountered a mysterious key that can unlock doors to anywhere one wishes, and perhaps the answer to the unresolved case from the past. That's where our story, the Record of Strange Things begins.

Depending on the type of audience you are, this setup may or may not sound interesting. As a Chinese drama fan, RoST is a unique category of its own where users in modern world can leverage on supernatural objects. Thus, it's worth exploring just based on this point.

As an old school detective fans, this is the basic setup of every other detective teams' new adventure to a strange world. Indeed, the plot structure is nothing original. After the necessary introduction of our main characters, the remaining episodes are structured into a few arcs with the same formula. Each arc is centered on a strange object and key characters relating to this case. While the arcs can be watched as standalone case on its own, they are related. Resolution of each arc gets our characters closer to the climax and finale of this RoST season.

Sounds troupe-y and Conan-ish? Yes, but old school detective fan favourite would buy this setup for RoST is a detective story done right. RoST has lovely characters, fascinating twist and turns of story arcs as well as consistent, tight logic of overarching plot.

One, we have the coming together of these unlikely quartet that's lovable.

At the beginning, they are forced to work together by circumstances and coincidences. They continue to work together because they have strengths that complement each other which make 1 plus 3 more than 4. What's great about this quartet is we truly see a believable friendship journey. From the start of distrust to enjoying each other's company to being a formidable team, we can feel each stage of progression and dynamics between them that's playful and enjoyable to watch. It makes us like them, as characters, and as 1 team.

Beyond these 4 main characters, the supporting characters and / or villains (it's a matter of perspectives) have their own motivations, personalities and brains.

No actions, inconsistent with characters' respective motivations.
No moments of unnecessary fillers.
No surprises, convoluted to the point that they do not make sense.
No opponents who are dumbed down to make our main characters "shine in comparison."

Special mention to Zhi Wei, a high ranked officer from the opposing organisation. Yes, he is that annoying villain-ish fella that somehow grows on the audience, unsuspectingly. Think of him as RoST version of Loki. Beyond Zhi Wei, RoST has smart opponents who do things that make sense and actually pose real challenge to our main characters - how lovely.

Two, we have intriguing story arcs that will keep audiences locked on the screen to find out what's happening next. The beginning is a little slow with the necessary setup and introduction. But once it gets past that, every moment matters. Just when we thought we have the plot figured out, we will be thrown off track with surprises that makes sense when it's revealed - how fascinating.

Three, we have well thought-out logic and consistent story plot through and through. The buildup of each moment is done well. The rules of how each objecr works are watertight and well used by the owners. As such, we are given satisfying face-off between the characters - some arcs more polished than the other, but all passable nonetheless. At the very least, none of them would make us go - "huh, but why would you do that?" What's more, the story is well injected with humor to balance off the tension that comes with a mystery show involving supernatural objects - how wonderful.

With all these coming together, the lackluster production quality and poor acting of some actors in RoST are forgivable. It's a show that was completed in 2016. It's from a production team that was tight on resources.

To sum it up, RoST is a story about the coming together of a group of 4, aided by strange objects that give users superpower. While we aren't sure if we will ever see the light of season 2 and the resolution of some setups, RoST is a love letter to detective fans, made by a production team who has equal love to this genre.

Give it a try and some time - perhaps it might grow on you. At least it didn't have 1000++ episodes like Conan.

Leia Mais

Fast paced storyline that swerved after two-thirds

I really enjoyed the first two thirds of the story. As another reviewer, ChineseDramaFan puts it, this story is segmented nicely into 3 parts - 1st part of meet-cute where both leads mutually hated each other, 2nd part of warming up and getting to know each other; and 3rd part of falling in love and fighting together.

Having a modern lady ahead of the time she was born, Qiu Yan is an admirable woman who work smartly and persistently to never let fate dictates her. Matching her wit and determination is Liang Yi who is ambitious and steadfast in making hard decisions in his quest for justice (as well as his personal revenge). The overlay of their romance story is investigations and suspense. However, since it's a predominantly romance first, then suspense second, there are quite the loopholes for the mystery cases. Despite the flaws though, I truly enjoyed the interactions, chemistry, and romance developments of the leads.

Thanks to the fast pacing, there weren't too much time to delve into the flaws before we will be rewarded with humorous "battle of wits" between Liang Yi and Qiu Yan. Their romance progress was also not the typical plots you'd see in other idol shows. One typical example is how we would expect the male lead to save the female lead when she is in trouble. However, the "how part" of Liang Yi saving Qiu Yan is rather unexpected and entertaining to watch. I also love their relationship dynamic. They both listen to each other, sarcasm and all, and respect each other. They are each other's equals, and surely an ideal relationship if there weren't so many external dramas thrown in their way.

The other part that makes this show good is the ideology of what Qiu Yan represents. She has a few memorable quotes in the story on woman's intention and seduction as well as how she continues to wish to be woman in her next life or next next life - having faith in the progress of woman's rights. I love it - Qiu Yan is not all talk and blame, unlike the contrast which Qiu Min's character portrays in the story. This is empowering, and a good message for other female audience.

However, once the story reaches towards the end, I find it becoming too convoluted. It's not even about the not-so-strong mystery cases anymore. While the big bad reveal is kinda surprisingly, I did not find myself really enjoying the latter one third of the show. Some of the character motivations are also puzzling and difficult to overlook the logic flaws.

Still, I'd recommend to watch this drama. The enjoyable parts of The Autumn Ballad are truly enjoyable, and to a certain extent, the main characters are inspiring. So have fun with this drama, until it's not.

Leia Mais

Relationship comes in many forms, we make our own ideal

This is by far the best season - and if I wasn't Ada Choi's fan prior, I definitely am now. She is absolutely hilarious and the kind of friend you want in any groups. Her EQ and tact are comforting and reassuring, it helps to warm up everyone quickly. I also love Zhang Jin's sense of humor that's more apparent as he warms up more to the other husband's in latter's episodes.

The other couples are also adorable. The thing about relationships, all couples have their own way of relating to each other and expressing their love. I enjoy watching
- Lang Lang's and Gina's idol love story,
- Sha Yi's and Hu Ke's 老夫老妻 (old husband, old wife) dynamics,
- Yuan Hong's and Zhang Xinyi's oddball expression of love towards each other (more YH than ZXY),
- Zhang Jin's and Ada's playful interactions with each other. Hearing the both of them recounting their love story, one from the wife's perspective, another from the husband's narrative is entertaining. He is also by far the most creative when it comes to providing gifts to his wife, invoking a lot of laughter and responses from the already hilarious Ada. How can we not love this couple?

Credits to the production team for their edits and the sound effects. It makes the travel looks so fun, the group dynamics and interaction so hilarious to watch.

Love love love this season. 🥰

Leia Mais

Puzzle pieces assembled right in a detective show

Many have talked about how underrated this detective show is, and it's rightfully so. It has been awhile since one could find such compact detective story plot in recent years. So if you are a fan of this genre, you should definitely check out The Imperial Coroner.

At the heart of it, the setup of this show is straightforward. As the title of the show suggest, our main character is a coroner - an aspiring female coroner who heads to the capital to get certified as an imperial coroner. Not many people think much about the coroner profession; and it is definitely not a profession, most if not all, females would aspire to be in ancient times. Which is where the first interesting element for The Imperial Coroner comes in - and shines.

Armed with a dream, solid skill, and earnest determination, Chu Chu manages to impress Prince An, Xiao Jinyu, who heads the Three Judicial Office during the coroner exam, which thus begin her coroner journey. Together, they work together to uncover mysteries involving murders, counterfeits, their own background and court power struggles. In a story about aspiring female coroner in ancient times, it's easy to typecast Chu Chu as Mary Sue; so I am glad the production team didn't go down this route. Coming from a backwater village, Chu Chu may be naïve, but she is not dumb. She looks up to Jinyu and greatly admires him as she grows to love him, but pulls her own weight to the mysteries with her competence and capability. Her relationship build up with Jinyu is believable and sweet to watch in the midst of crime-solving and compact plot-driven story.

Another two key elements which earns The Imperial Coroner the underrated drama of 2021 by critics and audience alike are the mystery plot and the team's dynamics. First, each arc is linked to the other - like solving a puzzle. While each piece tells a story on its own, assembling the pieces and connecting them one by one leads to the complete picture. There's nothing better than solid interconnected mysteries to drive the story forward in a detective genre show.

Next, the team's dynamics. This is an important element in any show, more so in detective stories. After all, it is the narrative of the characters that engages the audience to follow through the plots through each crime scene until the picture is assembled. Keyword here: engage. The production team really does this part justice. One of the fan favorites are the reenactment of crimes by Chu Chu and Jinyu. It's a refreshing way to visualize how the murders are done without losing us or dumbing the villain...well, except for one, but it's okay, The Imperial Coroner still does a great job overall.

I also like Jing Yi, Leng Yue and Jin Li who are the core supporting characters of this team. While the main brains of the mystery-solving is Jinyu's intellect and Chu Chu's coroner's capability, they do pull their own weight and bring something to the table - whether it is brawns or network or witty lines.

I believe this is a show that will gain its waves of delightful appreciation from time to time as new audience uncovers this diamond in the rough. Look forward to see more works from the screenwriters (Imperial Coroner is their first work!) and the budding cast.

Leia Mais

Finding your own answer as a doctor

This is a sequel of Dr. Romantic. One doesn't have to watch Dr. Romantic to follow and like this series, though it would certainly help. Teacher Kim and most of the supporting cast came back to reprise their roles. The newly added ones are our newly identified mentees of Teacher Kim in this season, Dr. Seo (portrayed by Ahn Hyo Seop) and Dr. Cha (portrayed by Lee Sung Kyung) as well as a hospital director Dr. Park.

Perhaps because of my bias towards both main actor and actress, I am more invested in this season's story than Dr. Romantic 1. Dr. Seo is a talented general surgeon who is strapped for money. Dr. Cha is a hardworking cardiothoracic surgery whose only, but vital, struggle is getting pass her panic disorder at the operating theatre. Both of them are transferred from the HQ to Doldam Hospital due to respective circumstances (as well as the influence of Teacher Kim), and thus began the journey of these 2 doctors on understanding what "Romantic" at Doldam means.

What I like better than its first counterpart is the chemistry and romance development of the main couple doctors, Dr. Seo and Dr. Cha. Both of them have been rivals since school days - Dr. Seo has always liked Dr. Cha all this while, but respectful and patient with the boundary set by Dr. Cha. He takes care of her in his own subtle way, while she stands up for him when no one will. I like this kind of comradery couple.

Another character introduced in the story is Dr. Park, who became the director of Doldam Hospital. He had a slightly obsessed, one-sided rivalry with Teacher Kim that I could not completely relate to, but his character arc and development is still enjoyable to watch. It depicts the story of someone who is held prison by his own mind, and the moment of seeing him freeing himself from it makes me cheer for Dr. Park.

The one key thing that will always be the highlight and strength of this show is the patient's stories. As the complex backstory of Teacher Kim was mostly fleshed out in Dr. Romantic 1, I feel that this sequel is able to focus more on the patient's case and narrative arc.

With these, I really enjoyed Dr. Romantic 2 and hope that if they do another sequel, Dr. Seo and Dr. Cha would both be back, pretty please?

Leia Mais

Different types of sweet love

This is a story that is about romance as much as it is about friendship. We have classic setup of 3 best friends with different personalities, and their respective pairing. The couples are
1) The typical 傻白甜 (silly, innocent, sweet) librarian Zeng Li paired with the straight laced and serious dentist Ai Jing Chu
2) Boyish Dr. Wu Ying with a 6 years younger university student Liu Yu Cheng
3) Influencer, sexy Ma Yi Yi on an off-on relationship / chemistry with entrepreneur playboy Deng Hao Ran

The story explores 3 different types of relationship pairing dynamics, as well as the friendship that the characters build and share with each other. There isn't anything novel about the plot or script - in fact, the classic meet-cute between Zeng Li and Ai Jing Chu is like your everyday rom-com scene. Nothing you have not watched before if you are a veteran in the rom-com genre.

What makes this series a slight cut above the other rom-com I watch is the friendship that 3 ladies share, as well as the exploration of 3 types of different pairings in 1 story. The acting of the leads are good too, considering the cast veer on the younger side.

Although, if I am allowed to nitpick one thing, it would be the title of this series. This series is original adaptation from a novel named "A Speck Amid the Dust of the World". I don't know what makes the production team decide on the name Sweet Teeth for the drama adaptation of it. Primarily because to me, the teeth and main lead's occupation as Dentist were only plot devices for Zeng Li and Ai Jing Chu to meet and get to know each other. As the story progresses, I barely even remember Zeng Li was forced to get braces or that Ai Jing Chu is a dentist.

The real message that I feel this story wants to portray is - in this vast world, my life becomes meaningful after I met you. And they (cast and production team) did well.

Leia Mais

Common setup with fresh element

This drama has a generic setup in wuxia, romance genres - Su Ci, a high-level investigator who disguises as a man, and Prince Qi, a military prince who disguises as a wealthy aristocrats as Pei Zhao meets on a chance encounter. Together with friends of different skillsets (a medic, a swordsman, and an all-in-one attendant), they form a fast friendship and great investigation team. Each case, though seemingly distinct, somehow leads them to getting tangled with the present brewing court struggles as well as to uncovering clues to redressing past injustices.

It may be an overused plot, but this drama interestingly strips away the angsts and misunderstandings between the main leads that tend to run a couple of episodes in other dramas. Su Ci is observant, collected and upright, Pei Zhao is strategic, patient and decisive. From their first encounter, we know that fate will bound them together and make them fall for each other, hard, despite the disguises and troubled pasts. It's pleasant to watch Su Ci and Pei Zhao budding and growing relationship - Pei Zhao is unwavering and unbashful in expressing his adoration towards Su Ci, Su Ci is supportive and honest with her feelings (most of the time) towards Pei Zhao. Any "rival" arcs introduced in the stories - if they are considered as rivals at all - are resolved rather quickly. In fact, I personally rather like the princess from Bei Rong, who is outspoken with her thoughts. Love this healthy dynamics and matured approach to relationship. ^^

And of course, the steamy and sweet moments between Su Ci and Pei Zhao are not to be missed. The actor and actress really do make you believe that they love each other - after the main leads confirm their relationship for each other in the later parts of the drama, Su Ci and Pei Zhao are generally never more than 2 steps apart if they are in the same frame! Okay, maybe I exaggerate a little, but point is, the main couple has great and lovely chemistry together. The second couple's story is fun to watch as well.

Apart from the main leads, Pei Zhao's good relationship with his brother, the emperor, is also a fresh of breathe air. And also, who would forget our adorable Fei Yuan? He is definitely more than an attendant to Pei Zhao, and contributes to many comedic moments in the show, along with our Xie daxia.

Fans of detective stories, however, may prefer to check out other series instead. This drama focuses more on the relationship dynamics between the main leads and the eventual showdown with the main villain. Crime solving is only part of the plots that move the story along - they are not weak on its own, but nothing too tricky or memorable about them either.

All in all, I enjoyed myself - if you are looking for an uncomplicated drama which brings some fresh elements to a common plot and great dynamics between the main casts, do give this show a chance.

Leia Mais

Only we can decide how we want to live and love

“The first time I truly felt happy is when I knew I have the ability to love my family. Even when I am disabled, it didn’t stop me from providing for them.” Zhuang Jie

~~~~

Zhuang Jie was like any other lady. In fact, she was more charming and chic than your girl next door. Except she had a disability - she lost a leg and her father from a bad accident during her teens.

This trip back to Nanjing was to recuperate from her surgery. She never planned to stay for long. Until she met Chen Maidong, her crush from high school.

Chen Maidong was like any other guy. In fact, he … really was like any other guy. With a granny that worried for his singlehood and aloofness about marriage. With a job at funeral line he held a little more dearly because of his past.

He never planned for his life to be different. Until he met Zhuang Jie.

Will Love in Spring could be a typical romantic contemporary story. What made it stood out and great was firstly, perfect casting choice.

Zhou Yu Tong and Li Xian chemistry as the main leads are on fire! How I love watching romance between adults. Their pull and push. Their fights and getting back together. Their kiss scenes. Purfect!

The supporting characters were great too. Each of them have their personalities which made them memorable and relatable. They aren’t only tools who push the plot forward. Their interactions with the leads and each other give more color and warmth to WLiS and the Nanping town.

First mention is Granny Chen’s and Granny Lin’s friendship - how lovely, being decades of friends. I love the depiction of their friendship which shows from this quote -
“以前是小手拉小手, 一转眼就是老手拉老手.
Last time, we held each other’s small hands, in a blink of an eye, we now hold each other’s old hands.”

The younger representation of equally great friendships were ZJ’s mum / Aunty Wu’s, and of course, ZJ and Wang Xi Xia.

The next mention is the sibling‘s relationship between ZJ, Zhuang Yan and He Niao Niao is another love. This is the kind of siblings we all wish to have. It’s a testament to how successful ZJ’s mum was in bringing them up. I love love their family scenes. Even when ZJ’s mum were scolding and had a more traditional mindset, this is a heartwarming family.

Similarly, Granny Chen and CMD family dynamics is lovely to watch too.

Special mention of Cui Ge and Jisan Goose. They added a lot of humour to WLiS.

With an ensemble like this , everyone one of them made facing all the heavy topics like separations, deaths, long distance relationships, disability, conflicting wants and adulting easier. How lovely and heartwarming.

Next, let’s dive deeper about the main leads love story.

Real and adult are 2 words come to mind.

I seen a lot of comments critiquing ZJ for shamelessly flirting CMD when she didn’t plan to stay long. I judged too - but then again, it’s the kind of judgment that holds a little envy. I envy her boldness of to speak her mind and enjoy the moment. I admire her quick wittedness and willingness to apologise first.

How charming, how attractive and how believable that CMD sunk.

It’s not a bed of roses after they confirmed their feelings for each other. Even when they made blunders and fight, I was satisfied with their resolution.

Some could name ZJ’s and CMD’s relationship toxic. I feel this is how real relationships are like. We stumble. We say things we don’t mean. So long we learn to apologise and we don’t repeat, I think it’s fine.

…well I guess the problem is sometimes we don’t. Thank goodness our leads do in WLiS.

Lastly, funeral makeup artist is no longer an unusual onscreen occupation. With this onscreen job, death is brought up every other episode. If not done well, the empathy for characters who passed away in the story and messages about appreciating life could feel empty and overtly cheesy.

For WLiS, I felt the balance was appropriate. They successfully made me care for the characters, hence, receptive with the subsequent messages that come with each death case that CMD had to handle.

This particular chat he had with someone contemplating suicide touched my heart somewhere. And I hope it reaches you too.

~~~~

“Everyone has times when they are tired of life. The reasons may vary, but the pain will feel the same.

Some family members want to use special coffins, unique urns or expensive headstones to prove the deceased was special.

However, these are all illusions.

Once we die, everyone is the same.
We can only prove how special we are by living well.” Chen Maidong

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When you get the chance to do over

The chance to right your mistakes is one of the top wishful thinkings that never loses its charm.

By right, the premise for Story of Kunning Palace (SoKP) already makes for a great start … By left though, SoKP falls through in the genre of reborn stories with poor camera angles and lighting, story execution and okay-ish actor / actress caliber.

Director Chu is infamous in the industry for his weird camera angles and inappropriate lighting position - so I will not delve deep into this. As a general viewer, I don’t have the professional knowledge to critique this constructively. The only thing I would say is it indeed cut down my viewing experience by a fair bit.

Onto the story. Jiang Xuening was the evil, alluring empress that was given the chance to redo life when she found she was back to her 18-year old self.

First things first, like any idol drama, I think evil can and should be contested. She was morally flexible and selfish in her first life, but to emphasise she was evil and thus, felt this deep regret to redeem her past actions to Yan Lin and Zhang Zhe was a bit lost on me. I felt that this may be due to the lost of translation from the original novel to drama adaptation.

This leads to the second, related point. The director and editors presented the story such that flashbacks of 1st life would play out right before the big event happened in 2nd life, and then we would watch how Xuening did differently after. On one hand, it made the story less draggy. On the other, it made me feel less engaged with Xuening’s motivation because I didn’t get enough context on why she felt a certain way with some characters in the scene. Like why she is so afraid of Xie Wei. Or why is she so grateful towards Fangyin. I mean they did mention why with the brief flashbacks, but the impact wasn’t deep enough for me to truly grasp the full picture of Xuening’s feelings. Not to mention, some of the flashbacks felt disjointed too.

Xie Wei should be an intriguing male lead - with his obvious backstory that closely mirror of Mei Chang Su story from Nirvana in Fire. Alas, while one may be able to copy the surface level stuff, the spirit or essence of classics is not as easily replicated. Maybe it’s the screenwriter. Maybe it’s the actor. To be fair, I think Zhang Ling He did good enough for his age. His Xie Wei just doesn’t have that charisma or charm for me, for now. Quite a lot of things were diluted to me in SoKP - I couldn’t feel that Xie Wei is was that smart to be able to fool the emperor, ministers, and rebels. There were more questions about how he survived his ordeal as a kid then and the resources he was able to amass at his disposal as an adult now to be able to do what he wanted. Similar to Xuening character, I felt this is also another lost in translation case. I shall stand corrected if I ever find the time to read the novel.

The funny thing was I got more intrigued by the side characters stories more than our main leads. One was Xue Hui’s arc, Xuening’s sister who was wise and truly just wanted to live her life peacefully but was misunderstood by Xuening for her indifference, in the 1st life. As Xuening chose differently this time, she came to better understand the person beneath the protective shell Xue Hui’s has built. Pity that Xue Hui didn’t even appear much on screen. Another one was Yan Lin’s, and I was rather satisfy with his arc. Fangyin’s arc was enjoyable too.

Overall, SoKP is a good enough reborn story that’s not for the nitpicky. It has a good enough storyline that sadly wasn’t translated as robustly on screen.

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侠 (“Xia”) in essence - protecting what matters

Back from the Brink (BFTB) has a simple story plot - a handicapped dragon in search of his missing parts due to an ex betrayal.

This simplicity is its strength. Within 10 mins of the show, BFTB has told us what we need to know about the background context, Yan Hui’s (YH) personality, and how she is interlinked with Tian Yao (TY) in his quest. Straightforward with no filters. (Yes, those cute little loyal genies aren’t filters.) Their meet cute were hilarious and logical - a rare combination in many stories these days.

The best part of this light hearted series is Yan Hui’s character. I love how YH is kind, but isn’t a Mary Sue. She trusts people yet will not allow others manipulate her. She has a protective instinct towards those being bullied, but rightfully, affirms her priorities and will say No to requests that she doesn’t want to do. She is decisive and quick witted. What a healthy role model! I also particularly love how direct and expressive YH is. While a lot of credit is due to the screenwriter, I got to applaud the actress, Zhou Ye, who managed to strike that right balance for YH’s character. Her portrayal of YH adds a lot of points to made this character so likeable.

TY’s character is also done with care. Although he was betrayed by his ex in such a cruel way, and had to experience a lot of pain for losing his body parts, I love how he didn’t project his hurt to others. Sure, he was reserved and cautious with strangers, and was a handful to deal with. Beneath the reserved exterior, I can see his kindness, strength and wilfulness, befitting of the only Millennium Dragon in the story. His journey of redemption was slow, painful and can be frustrating at times to watch - but hey, isn’t the struggle and growth the whole point of a great character.

Main characters aside, I love the representation of each story arcs and the key characters in them as YH and TY journeyed to gather the latter’s missing parts. I love Xiange’s determination and stance in protecting what she believes in. I admire Lu Mu Sheng’s loyalty towards his wife, even if they did not expound on it. I respect Qing Qiu’s key characters’ belief and protection towards peace. While it is a stretch to understand Su Ying’s and her sister’s respective obsession (I suppose that’s why they are family), I can accept that there are characters like these and feel pain for them. And of course, how can one not love the little genies and children at dragon valley - how innocent and cute.

Most importantly of all, there were timely injects of humors and heartfelt moments throughout BFTB, making this xian xia my favorite of this year.

OST wise, it took me awhile to like them. The cute CGI style could be a make or break for some audience. And while I personally like the story plot is simple, it may be too light of a taste for those who are looking for brilliant plot twists or dramatic moments in stories.

At the core of it, BFTB makes us think harder about our prejudices (if any) towards people who are of different class, differentiating between love and obsession, the implications of choices and trade-offs (i.e. What it means sacrificing one life to save the world), how to embody the value, 侠 (“Xia”) chivalry, and what protecting truly means.

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