A well-written mix of happiness, angst, sorrow, joy and excitement portrayed magically!
I once dropped this show after watching 3 episodes. They were too deep and sad for my mental state back then and I decided to stop. But I'm just so glad, months later, I gave this show another go. Best decision ever! This has to be one of my favourite shows. This show has made me wanting a WFH set-up in a beautiful airbnb in a peaceful environment so much!What I like the most about this show is that ALL the leads have a brilliant background and story. Yes, you heard it right. You do not feel any imbalance in how they handle the multiple characters. Enough and more time is spent on the struggles, achievements and daily life of all the characters instead of being focused on only Hong Dou and Zhi Yao.
I also like how they've shown a broken yet extremely independent and sensible woman in the form of Hong Dou. She prioritises her mental health, is willing to work on herself when things are not right but overcomes it all (with the help of our wonderful characters) to get back on her feet. She does not let others guide her future and is a force to reckon with. Whether it be her family, or love, nothing gets in the way of her dreams, and that is just aspirational. What is even more amazing about this is that she does all of this without stepping on others, she considers everyone's feelings, acknowledges them and talks it out peacefully, commendable!
I also like the character of Chairman Xie. He is a self-aware and brilliant guy who knows exactly what he wants and gives his all to achieve the same. Although his character is too good to be true and very philanthropist-y for my liking, kudos to him for being like that and staying at it throughout the show. His commitment to his goal and community is commendable and it makes me look out for my own Chairman Xie.
My favourite characters though have to be of Na Na and Da Mai. They have developed beautifully over the show, given their best performances and worked magic on the screen. The bond between the two is also magical and something I aspire for. But having said that, all the actors including the village aunties and uncles, have brilliantly depicted their roles and the acting in this show is very top-notch by everyone.
What amazes me to this date is just how calm, composed and peaceful Xu Hong Dou sounds. The tranquility that sets whenever she's talking is no joke. So gentle and so sweet. It's like she could say 1000 mean things to me, and I would still be focused only on just how tranquil and gentle she sounds. I've never heard any actor portray a character like that and usually I find it very annoying but Hong Dou's tone matched the entire show and it's concept so well that it was a brilliant touch!
What I didn't like about the show is the little Chinese propaganda flowing throughout, but personally, I've learnt to overcome the same after having watched countless Chinese shows. At some point it also feels like a tourism documentary but I don't find any problem with that because the show has otherwise delivered on every single front so what's the problem with a little advertisement. I've been to Yunnan, Kunming and Dali and hands down the beauty of these places needs to be shared with everyone.
If you're looking for a feel-good, deep, and absolutely BRILLIANT show, then don't think twice. THIS IS IT. I can't recommend this show enough to everyone. What an amazing 35 hours of my life. Cheers! ?
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This review may contain spoilers
Pretty, but that's about it.
City life is stressful, folks, so let's move to a beautiful village in China! It's by a glorious lake backed by glorious mountains. Sample its delights in a gorgeously photogenic homestay full of vintage and artisanal charm, where you can sit peacefully sipping tea in a flower-filled courtyard with tinkling windchimes, friendly cats, no litter and not one single bug even though there aren't any screens. While you are here, you will be gently encouraged into wholesome activities by adorable grandmas in cute cultural costumes, while random people impart wisdom to you in not-at-all-clichéd epigrams and show you the True Meaning of Life! (tm)Unfortunately, the promotional postcard was just that; much surface, little actual dramatic content. It was vaguely soothing to watch for a while just because it is so pretty and nicely shot, and all the points I am giving it are for that. But it didn't deliver anything else, for me: some cute photogenic moments but no real depth to anyone, and definitely not enough story to fill 40 episodes. The romance left me not only cold but actually feelIng lIke kIcking the ML's cheesy white grin - he was annoying and kinda preachy, and after far too long waiting for something interesting to happen I came to my senses and dropped it. I love a thoughtful slice of life, but it has to not bore me, and sadly, this did.
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Go aheah & watch this drama you will love it.
After a long time I got to watch such a great dramaAt 1 st I thought it would be boring but I wanted to give it a try because of the male lead (Li xian).
It was a really really great drama the type of drama I was looking for..
There are so many scene that will make your heart flutter.. I personally laughed a lot also did get emotional some time even cried!!
It has the type of setting that I personally want in my life ( I mean living in a small place with a lot of good people who really care for you) .. & the ost those were just great I downloaded all the ost & i listen to them & think about the setup they showed us.
It was such a healing drama. I like their acting, the whole cast are awesome. Also it was the 1 st drama of the female lead that I watch & i became e fan there were no weird character every character did a great job.
The male lead & female lead being together was also great I may not the right way to explain the drama but you should give it a try .
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The Actors make you love this show.
My main complaint for a lot of Chinese dramas is that the characters act so young for their ages or take 20 episodes just to peek on the cheek kiss after some dumb misunderstanding. This is not one of those dramas. It’s about family, friendship, work life, living for a dream or just working for a paycheck . The actors are likable and real in their emtions. Of course the ML and FL are so much fun to watch as their relationship develops —you find yourself rooting for them, the village and the community. No fast forwarding needed as you just sit back and enjoy being part of the friend groupWanting to help each other succeed
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A lighthearted drama about life
"Meet Yourself" is a standout in the realm of Chinese dramas, effortlessly blending heartfelt storytelling with deep social themes. The show captivated me from the start with its realistic portrayal of life, love, and personal growth.The drama is set against the beautiful backdrop of the countryside, which adds a serene and almost therapeutic element to the narrative. However, what truly sets "Meet Yourself" apart is its mature and nuanced exploration of relationships and personal struggles. It delves into themes such as grief, community, the clash between modernity and tradition, and the journey of self-discovery. These elements are handled with such grace and depth that they resonate long after the episode ends.
The romance between the lead characters is one of the most authentic and grounded portrayals I’ve seen in recent dramas. It’s not just about grand gestures or clichéd moments; instead, it’s built on mutual respect, understanding, and personal growth. The chemistry between Liu Yifei and Li Xian feels natural and effortless, making their relationship both believable and deeply moving.
Liu Yifei shines as the female lead, bringing a quiet strength and vulnerability to her role. Her performance is both captivating and understated, perfectly embodying the complexities of her character. Li Xian also delivers a stellar performance, bringing warmth, charm, and depth to his role. His portrayal of a man who is both confident and introspective adds a compelling layer to the drama.
The supporting cast is equally commendable, each adding depth to the story with their unique personalities and subplots. The show does an excellent job of exploring different life perspectives, from the struggles of the younger generation to the wisdom of the older.
In conclusion, "Meet Yourself" is more than just a romance drama; it’s a beautifully crafted story about life, community, and the journey to find peace and happiness. It’s rare to find a drama that balances romance with such meaningful social commentary, but "Meet Yourself" does so flawlessly. This is a must-watch for anyone looking for a drama that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking.
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Awesome Acting and Romance with lots of epic visuals.
I love the way they details each and every natural view.FL lead Acting is wow superb.
This type of drama can give you peace of mind.
This drama carries lots of emotions, hard situation to overcome, epic detailing, awesome cast with superb acting especially FL acting overshadowed everyone.
Many things I like about it.
This drama gave you lots of lessons,
This drama shows you how to uplift your hometown into tourism attraction,
Basically I am from india , my culture is very different but in this drama you feel their culture,
Most important part of this drama is in Acting part , especially FL expression is superb ?
If you are looking for relax , romance, healing type situation then go for it.
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One Relax Drama
Long time hesitate to watch this, but I'm bored so just decided to watch this drama. Quite happy to watch this drama in the end.This drama tell story about Xu Hong Dou (HD) that just losing her friend & decided to take a break from life & just go to small town in Yunnan to relax. HD had plan to go travel to Yunnan with her friend, but since she died, HD decided to fulfill the promise & just go there. In Yunnan, Yun Miao village, like all small village, the community is closed tied & family related.
So aside from relax, HD also find new friend & new community or you can say new family and also not forget the love of her life.
What I like:
+ Really relax atmosphere. Like all small village, the time worked really slow & can make us feel relax & nothing in life is so important that you need to work your ass around...
+ The maturity of HD & Xie Zhi Yao (ZY). Like we know they love each other, but they don't rush thing & let the time take care of it.
+ The friendship that all the village create for one and each other.
+ The funny Granny Xie. Hoho... One more cute & adorable grandma in dramaland
+ They talk about the important communication between family. Like when Ma Qiu Shan & HD want to start business, they like having talk that whatever happen talk with family is important, not only when you already decided then you announce your decision.
Maybe from all of this the minus is only one. The times sometimes moves so slow... For you who don't like it gonna feel this drama a little bit bored.... Oh and maybe as usual for c-drama, the episode is just d*mn too much, I don't think the episode need this long.
Overall this is one good drama for you to enjoy and learn to relax....
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Love this drama, especially the side characters, amazing cinematography
Meet Yourself is a melodrama in Yunan as Xu Hong Dou (played by Crystal Liu) went there to find herself after the death of her best friend Chen Nan Xing played by Janice Wu.The drama has many known guest roles and a supporting cast. The acting of the entire ensemble was excellent, even though the flow of the drama is quite slow, but I love it.
I love all the side characters; each is uniquely portrayed by the supporting actors/actresses. Especially Granny Xie, played by Estelle Wu. She is a supporting yet firm grandma to Xie Zhi Yao, played by Li Xian.
The Yunan community not only supports each other, but they also make their guests feel welcome and belong in their society.
The cinematography is so beautiful that it makes me want to visit Yunan one of these days. I enjoy this drama and would recommend people to watch it.
Overall, I am giving it an 8.5 rating.
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A complete package! Absolutely masterpiece
The title of this drama really describe the story. A lot of life lesson about how you should embrace life, self acceptance, and be more compassionate about others and your surrounding.Although its a slow pace, but the story is so well written, made it not the weakness but instead the strength of the whole series. You will find it is so realistic and relatable to your everyday life, and immerse yourself as part of it. The romance is also a slow burn kinda romance, everything is natural, and no overacting. The cast -- you'll know its a great drama when the supporting roles are as memorable as the main roles. Each person is unique and has their own strength, weakness, and problems. And their character develop as the story progress. Not just the main roles, but to each one of them. Thus, I give four thumbs up (including my feet thumbs >,< haha) to the writer who blended them nicely.
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Healing and Slow Burn
In today's life people forget to take care of their own personal health and cause disasters of their own. The best friend of the FL is one such person who has lost her life, which affects her negatively and causes depression. The female lead then goes on a trip of healing and books a short term stay at a village. The ML, who is the leader of the village and trying to put the village as a tourist destination on the map.The interactions between ML and FL, along with other members of the village, and other characters who reside in the village to escape from their own demons forms the crux of the drama. The repeated conversations and interactions with the ML leads to a healthy romance between the parties.
The drama is long but honestly does not have a bad episode. This drama definitely is in the top with its cast, scenery and character development.
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Slowing down admist all the hustle and bustle [of dramaland]
Meet Yourself is likely the type of show where you’d either love it to the moon or feel meh about.To some, 40 episodes of a healing drama is too long; to a few others, the show probably inspire them to take intentional steps, as required, so they’d be able to appreciate the things that matter to them, before it’s too late.
For me, I quite like Meet Yourself for its lovely characters, awesome cinematography, mature romance, and nuggets of wise conversations…but it has to catch me at the right mood. Even this review has been a long time coming, which ironically fits into the show’s iconic slow pacing.
First things first, on the story premise, we follow Xu Hong Dou journey of healing in Yunmiao Village after feeling burnt out from the grief she felt of her best friend’s death. As she settled in and eventually got “coaxed” to take up an advisory position to assist the local cafe, she started to get more involved in the affairs of people at Yunmiao Village. And then, slowly but surely, Xu Hong Dou felt pockets of fresh air from this place and people, which gave her the energy to connect with herself and begin again.
While there may seem that the stories were unfolding in its own timing and there are many moments in the show that seems more like local tourism MV promotion, I’d say that’s how life kinda is. After all, we don’t necessarily stop to hear or remember the stories of people we deal with in our day to day life. Only when the interactions increase and we start to care about these stories of people who were once strangers to us would we then feel the impact in our hearts. It’s not a process that we can and should rush. And this is the timing that Meet Yourself follows - through Xu Hong Dou’s lens and timing.
Each character’s arcs and stories make Yunmiao Village a warm place. And the greatest anchor is Xie Zi Yao, a promising young lad who had the capability, heart and determination to work on his vision - a vision that Xu Hong Dou seems to understand and support. Neither of them were looking for romance. Yet, they found life is better with each other in it.
In the world of hustle bustle, in real life or drama land, Meet Yourself firmly cement itself as the place that everyone wants to rest and relax in, but unsure if they want it for that long. Still, I’d recommend everyone to give it a shot - perhaps at some point of your life, Meet Yourself may be what you need to reconnect with what you want to work towards to and what matters to you.
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Healing Drama with matured leads
if you love both main characters who are mature and have wise life experience, peaceful drama that don't have any heavy conflict and smooth story line, slowburn romance, flirting with each other but can make you blush; you should watch this. Just my two cents suggestions, if you like this drama you should try fake it till you make it, run on (kdrama), dinner mate (kdrama). If you have any drama recommendations that have the same vibes as this drama, please tell me. Ignore this because it has words minimum to write a reviewWas this review helpful to you?
