The Double (2024)

If I wanted to waste hours of my life watching the worst of human nature, I'd watch the news . . .

Our main female lead is out for revenge against the selfish, deluded and truly evil. Much of the screentime goes to these terrible people to the point of frustration. Just as you can't handle one more cruel or petty scene, Jiang Li appears and takes them down. Jiang Li's plots are not overly complicated there isn't tons of intrigue, there's not a lot of gray areas. Frustratingly, also, most of the evil characters are women.

If you were hoping for a romance centric story, the romance is strung out for one or two scenes per episode, with our Duke Su always the puppet master, and never losing his composure or risking anything.

The costumes and production values are a bit low budget and do not make-up for the handicaps of this story. My frustration levels were high, and the rewards too delayed. I'm dropping.

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Strong start, weakened by excessive tears and superficial storytelling

This was a super easy drama to get into because you have the intelligent and strongwilled protagonist being framed for having an affair before she is swiftly "saved" by her righteous husband only to then be murdered by him. We then learn it's him and his family who orchestrated the whole thing! So does one need anything more but to get stuck into our popcorn and watch the unravelling of events where we get to see the FL return from the dead with a new identity seeking revenge not only for herself, but for the identity that she has claimed? Two is better than one!

Ignoring certain unrealistic or illogical happenings at the start, this drama was captivating enough to continue because the story and direction kept us engrossed. You have the ex-husband who's being kept prisoner by a princess whose chronic obsession with him renders him a puppet to be used and abused by her both mentally and physically. Witnessing such a miserable existence of the ex-husband, coupled with the peculiar/deranged personality of the princess really made this unique drama set-up, an oddly satisfying watch.
The excitement surrounding FL Xue FangFei revealing hee face to her murderers at an important event also kept me on my toes wondering, what next??

So with the characters nicely set up, we are rooting for FL, and although I find the ML a little A4, at the very least he's not annoying, nor is he hard to look at, so I'm thinking, not bad Youku, you may have a big hit with this dark horse!

However.... the weaknesses of the story slowly start to emerge due to the poor directing of Yuzheng. Firstly, we see FL and her maid crying more than necessary and during scenes where tears were not required to convey the feelings of the characters. At one point I felt like the director had a fetish for beautiful tears streaming down pretty actors' faces. But I can overlook the insistence of the director instructing the actors "cry here, and cry again there", because in his mind he believes that's how the audience will believe these actors have acting talent.

Things start to seriously get wonky once the FL and ML get drunk one night and FL decides to let ML know she is physically attracted to him. Oh boy... where do I begin to vent my frustrations with the many problems of this particular scene???

You have just been betrayed and killed and buried alive by your husband not long ago, in addition to finding out that your dad and brother have also been killed by him or the person behind him, and yet you can quickly transition to flirting with another guy? Is she out of her mind? I understand that one can still develop feelings for a person even if one has been wronged, but the way in which one moves on, and the type of trauma suffered should be a factor in how one moves on. It was as if she had never been murdered, and she's now got herself a handsome new suitor that she's excited about... Would one not be a little jaded to say the least? And how can one fathom even entertaining the idea so soon after experiencing such a stomach-churning experience? I mean we know its still in her mind since theres no shortage of them replaying the scene of her being hit over the head with a shovel multiple times. I think its fine to like the ML, but it's weird how they are portraying the attraction. Her behaviour and thought process doesnt seem to fit in with the rest of the story and the time the story is set.

We then get a much slower pacing of the drama which detracts from the enjoyability of the drama since it was the fast pace and tightly packed story that held our utmost interest at the start.

We get an early boring arc of her cousins family being targeted, before they show FL seeking justice for her real dad which was the most poorly delivered part of the drama because they tried so hard to make it tug at the heartstrings which then led it to produce the opposite effect. There was a lot of overacting and plenty of contrived scenes which detracted from the overall emotional portrayal that one would expect from such a storyline.

The other problem aside from the weirdly developing romance, incessant tears, and lack of subtlety of the injustice done to FLs real dad, is the fact that the duke is always solving all the problems. We need more scenes where he doesnt just appear out of nowhere to save the day. If so, then why do we need FL to have any intelligence at all? The worst scene so far is when Jiang Lis dad stands in front of FL to save her from being killed, and instead of focusing on this touching moment, the limelight is given AGAIN to ML for saving the day with his fan... But he has done it a million times before, and it wasnt even a difficult save, so why not put the focus back on the actual dad and his moment of standing up to the bully and protecting her daughter??

I'm going to continue watching this for the exhusband and craycray Princess Wanning because their characters are the most intriguing and its a treat to see the tortured soul witness a live version of his dead wife coming to life to torment him whether intentionally or unintentionally. In terms of the main romance, and even the upcoming story development, I don't have much expectations.

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A Subtly Crafted Revenge: The Double Review

The Double excellently captures the entire revenge trope and does not sway throughout its 40 episodes, which is what makes it really stand out. Xue Fangfei carefully executes both her own and Jiang Li's revenge in a subtly planned way, taking out all her enemies one by one. However, I do feel like her revenge was slightly underwhelming. Xiao Heng served more looks than actions and rather acted as a support to Xue Fangfei, magically appearing exactly when she needed him. Nevertheless, he and his fan are absolutely iconic. Their romance is a nice slow-burn with romance not being the main focus, and their relationship slowly falls into place with mutual trust and respect. There is one word to describe Shen Yu Rong: pathetic. At times, I do feel bad for him, but at the end of the day, I feel like he lost the most. When given the opportunity to turn things around, he rejected it due to his pride and lack of courage. I really liked the side characters, especially Tong Er and Lu Ji! The OST is really beautiful, and I actually never skipped an opening or closing song. The reason for my lower rating is because I feel like it dragged and got boring waiting for their revenge to finally happen, and when it did, I feel like it could have been done better; as I said, it was underwhelming. The ending arc was done well and was quite exciting, leaving me with a better impression of the drama. Overall, I rate it 7.5/10!

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honestly, people hyped it up too much, and for me it wasn't that good. there was very little romance, which is not a problem, but i felt so ashamed watching some of the "romantic" scenes, i mean, they were both adults fighting against the most powerfull people but there was still some childsh scenes sometimes :(
it makes me sad because i really wanted to enjoy it, the premise was so good! but i couldn't care about for most of the characters, and those who were nice to watch had little screen time compared to others, and in the end some of them turned out to be irrelevant.
i didn't like the bonus episode as well, made me cringe because it didn't seem like a continuation of the drama, it was out of place

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With it flaws and it strengths, it was fun while at last

First, i'm not rewatcher type hence the low rate in that aspect.
Second, i genuinely wish to give it higher cuz initially i thought my hall of fame would get a new member. Then at some point when that initial thought ceased, i thought at least this could be my highest cdrama rate this year. Well, at the end of the road, here we are.

Let's begin with plot. Be honest, it's not the best plot out there, revenge isn't my top trope for various reasons. To fully enjoy one need many factors and self resilience (lmao), For me this one is great, the way she focused on her revenge and executed every step is admirable. I don't mind the slow burn, it's on character imo. Actually both of them is so focus on revenge so romance department is a bit neglected yet the romance is there, out loud in the room, i can't say they didn't do romance at all. They made the whole fandom cheered from hands holding only, it takes time to build that level of anticipation.
Xue Fangfei's revenge plot is pretty neat. Once the goal was clear, the enemies were out, she just worked her way out till the end. Meanwhile Jiang Li's revenge plot is mild and sometimes feels like a filler, not entirely bad tho, we need a break from intense plot sometimes. Xiao Heng own story is a bit shallow for me. His revenge, his purpose, even his relationship with people around him isn't really in depth. It's obvious that he has less screen time than FL, in consequence we got lack of his story.

The acting. Dang, it's acting feast right here.
My first time watching Wu Jinyan and i really enjoy her performance. I'm enjoying her performance with Xiao Heng from the balcony lol. Wang Xingyue still did his thing, idk what to say but i always watch him play mature role beyond his age. He's actually so good at it so i still remember how dumbfounded i was when i learned his real age. He still has a long way to go and more diverse role but for now, he excel this once again.
Our psycho cp. They certainly own it. Wanning character is pitiful, her misery (mostly) brought by men yet she directed her resentment towards women and innocent people. Instead of therapy, she got another a̶s̶s̶h̶o̶l̶e̶ psycho as her company. Li Meng did a good job as psycho princess, at the same time i can still see innocent little girl craving for love from her.
About Liang Yongqi, goodness, I need time not to feel sick when i see SYR in the future. His empty guilt stare made many believe and give benefit of doubt to him at the beginning. Who knows he rose up as the most disgusting villain on my list. His audacity, cowardice and spineless behavior just beyond redemption. His character just pure evil for me and the actor brought it out thru his facial expression, voice and gesture. He's way too good at his job.
Most side character also did, at least, a decent job. I found it pleasing most people can deliver something.

To sum up. Yes it's kinda going down as the show reveal it flaws, however it's still exceed my expectation since i didn't expect to be this obsessed. You can come for the plot but the acting and chemistry has little to no flaw. I enjoy the ride, it was fun while it last.

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A grand tribute ~ Scheming that's done magnificently! | Well served Justice.

"Don't be afraid of falling once and don't let that deter you. You have to forget about the pit and move on. No matter what, I am behind you." - Xue Huai Yuan

The above line from Xue Fang Fei's father truly has left a significant meaning to me. Although it was delivered to encourage XFF to never lose hope and keep the faith. I also felt comforted on behalf of her, because I know, as a viewer, that it somehow has a different meaning for her. It's a reminder and an advise that she should let go of her traumas and free herself of the chains that's keeping her caged in the past. That life is much more brighter and vibrant as long as she keeps on looking at the people who truly loves and cares for her.

Anyways, I want to officially start this review by saying that this story left me in great awe this year and most probably the drama with one of the best story line and character progression of all. I consider it so close to my heart that I want to take my time to carefully dissect the story by highlighting my most favorite elements about it. So, shall we start?

Story line - It was told without haste. I love that they took their time to show us all the crucial events that occured in the show. And despite having lots of scenes to show and address, they simply never took the liberty to magically skip through anything. They made sure that each important scenes are executed and shown in detailed way which also helps us viewers understand the story the best way possible. + The fact that they are able to incorporate a great amount of humorous and hilarious skits left and right made this show extra entertaining to watch. Also, I just wanna add up how crazily jam-packed and/or action-packed this dramas is. I myself was astounded on how skilled they're in deciding which scenes should make it to the final cut. No wasted episode at all!

Overall camera works, editing and all those related stuff - I'm speechless and too overwhelmed to even tell people how satisfied I am on how meticulously this drama was filmed and edited. They seriously got the best team out there. The transitions between scenes are smooth and flawless—well done! Not to mention how insanely indulging the camera angles, focus and choreohraphies are! Chef's Kiss! The camera position and direction are exemplary as it gives us a better and wider view of the horizon where the story is happening. Another thing I extremely love are the close up shots because it somehow made me feel like they're talking to me...like telling me words through their expressions. For some reason those shots expressed and conveyed their emotions clearly and precisely even better than them exchanging actual dialogues. Those are also my most favorite scenes of this drama. The main leads looking at one other without speaking as if they can read one another's mind felt so magical and endearing to me.

I also just want to mention how the cinematography and CGI was insane during the Qin competition. Like, Hell Yeah!! They gave me so much chills!! At one point it feels like I was watching a Xianxia drama all of a sudden which was mesmerizing and captivating all at the same time. What a performance they got there.

Chemistry and compatibility is Oozing! Something about the main leads has conquered and devoured this entire drama completely. I never expected them to be this charismatic, captivating and tempting all together. Their eye contacts are enough to melt my soul and awaken my romantic bones into life. They've got this chemistry and synergy that is rare for pairings to have. So I would say they have developed a mutual understanding and intangible connection that gives me this heart flattering feeling whenever I watch them. I guess they simply understand each other and has long found the secret recipe on how to make their chemistry work even when they're only giving us the bare minimum. Also, I love that they're not really lovey-dovey but are mature enough to understand and acknowledge their feelings for each other. And on Episode 33, their holding hands scene after XFF went out of the prison was such a mood. I myself was shock to see them being on that stage already even when they seem on guard of each other. Chess piece my ass Xiao Heng. Hahaha!

Ending was satisfying! I appreciate how everyone who the Main Leads seeks justice from got their own well deserved miserable ending and punishment. And although Lu Ji and Wen Ji died at the end, I am just glad that Xiao Heng didn't end up getting killed as well. I better watch the special episode right after writing this review.

Lastl, I personally want to thank the writer for the well deserved Happy ending of the Xue Family. I'm very grateful and is elated to see XFF spending her life in peace and harmony with her little family after all the mess Shen Yurong brought to their life.

"Living is the best revenge against your enemy." - Jiang Li (The real one)

Story - 10, I have nothing but praises and good words for this drama. The story was well written, progression was smooth and systematic and I immensely appreciate how the writer and producer avoided making such ludicrous plot twist and devices.

Acting/Cast - 10, Let's not talk about acting! Cause Heck!! They nailed, cemented and put up a statue of themselves in my head as one of the best in actors/actresses in terms of acting. Wu Jin Yan specially got me on my knees. She's overflowing with this indescribable force that will automatically hook you up to her acting performance. While Wang Xing Yue got me with his charming smile and stoic yet soft facial expressions. The supporting roles are the best too! Special mention to Ai Mi. Girl is on every drama I watched. A person who got good eyes and sense in choosing her projects.

Music - 10, Overall music choice are good. They're melodious and almost heavenly. Specially their main BGM! Their song placement is good and balanced as well. I never feel like it overshadowed or overlapped with any of the scenes it was used to.

Rewatch Value - 10, Solid 10. This is one of those dramas I will surely watch over and over again if only I have time to do so.

Overall - 10, Other people saying otherwise must either have personal beef against any of the casts or their taste is simply nasty bad. This drama deserved a higher rating and success, just to be very honest. Highly recommend!

IF you find my review helpful please let me know.

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One of the best revenge dramas so far

This is without a doubt one of the best revenge dramas I've ever watched so far. The story and plot made sense and I felt that it was all tied up together nicely until the end and was not being led sideways to make way for romance towards the end, like some dramas wont to do. I love that they stick to both the revenge of Xue Fangfei and Jiang Li and resolve for them both by the end. It was so satisfying. The only nitpick I have with the plot is the many sexual violence theme they incorporate in the storyline (guess that's why Netflix has those and substance as warning lol). I was quite wary of watching this in public seeing as those sexual violence scenes can sometimes jump at you out of nowhere. lol. The plot was so captivating for the first 2 quarters of it, I literally watched 16episodes in one sitting! and that's because I need to stop for work. It does get quite slow and draggy in the third quarter during the arc of saving Magistrate Xue but picks up again during the last quarter until the end. All in all, it was a gripping plot that can definitely kept you watching. The story was definitely a not feel good drama, as it carries some very hard and serious themes, but I like that they tried to sprinkle some humor as well here and there to lighten up the plot, like Xiao Heng's two sidekicks and Xiao Heng being bossed around by his grandfather after he saved Fangfei towards the end. Not much, but I guess it will do. lol. The ending seems quite rushed and I felt robbed, but after watching the 5mins fan service added scenes of XFF and XH living happily together with a daughter, I felt like maybe if they include those scenes in the main drama, it doesn't quite match the whole feelings of the drama. But, do they have to kill both Lu Ji and Wen Ji at the end though???! Hmpppphhhh so mean! Those two were just sidekicks, leave them alone! haha

At first, I think this is my first drama of the ML, but scrolling through his works, he's also in One and Only which I'd already watched previously, but I don't recognize him in that drama. Seeing as he is only 22yo, I'd say, he did superb being paired with someone as seasoned as WJY. He doesn't appear to be that much younger than her in his acting, despite the 10+ years gap. So, kudos. his chemistry with the FL was also quite good, despite having to act as someone who is ruthless and aloof at first. The thing I applaud this drama is, they have very good villains. Be it the small villains like Magistrate Feng or Governor Tong (whose acting were so convincing I really felt like slapping them both silly!)or big villains such as Shen Yurong and Wanning, and to a lesser extend, Chancellor Li and Prince Cheng. All of the big villains had a story behind them, and there's layers to them being that way that somehow even though you want to kill them yourselves, but you also felt some pity. Shen Yurong is such a pitiful character, having to turn into such a despicable man because he was weak to stand against the higher power. Being humiliated here and there and then being cajoled back with the ideas of being loved by the same person is torturing in a way, I guess no wonder he turned into a madman in the end. Wanning character is also another great villain, so psychotic and a madwoman, but end up also a pitiful woman hardened by what she went through. But what sets them apart from XFF I guess, despite having to go through such a traumatic fate in life, XFF choose the high path and never step on other innocent people's heads in order to exact revenge while these villains lost their heart after the torture they went through. Some of the villains, like Ji Shuran, was a different kind of villain, like a wolf in a sheepskin, acting all demure and loving but backstabbing (though the actress was beautiful despite the age. haha)

Costumes were sooo beautiful especially for XFF and Duke Su and the makeup for formal palace event was a stand out (not sure which era this was, but I don't think I'd seen it in dramas before. OST was nice enough, but doesn't make me went out to find them in YouTube. A rewatch is low though owing to the fact that this is such a heavy story and I felt like watching once is gripping but more than enough. lol. A recommended watch though for first timer like me!

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