Young Blood Season 2 (2023)

The father, the son and the holy sheep.

After a long hiatus, Young Blood 2 picks up right where Season 1 left off with the team heading to Western Xia to rescue Zhao Jian's father. There they get embroiled in a plot to assassinate Yuan Hao, aka Emperor Jingzong of Western Xia. Yuan Hao was a formidable general and founder of the Tangut dynasty, which lasted almost two centuries. This narrative largely respects history so if you do not want to be majorly spoiled as to how this ends, resist the urge to Google him.

Initially, Season 2's somber, pensive tone took me aback. But it is fitting for the desolate, rugged, mystical Helan Mountain terrain. It also ties well with the personal losses, betrayals, and disillusionment the team experiences at the end of Season 1. While screenwriter Wang Juan's humor and clever dialogues are evident in the writing, the difference in the directing team is noticeable. Character shots and comedic moments are not as well captured by the camera. Many of the people shots are not filmed at interesting camera angles and the main cast's humor does not flow naturally. The actors may be trying too hard to convey that some of their joie de vivre have faded after all that they've been through. Their energy often seems lethargic and their banter is lackluster despite the witty dialogue. What still shines is their unspoken affection and trust in each other which seems more mature, time-tested, and unbreakable. The "new" Yanei integrates well even though he unavoidably looks younger and is missing the swagger. Su Xiaotong's acting has most visibly improved and I enjoyed Pei Jing's growth this season.

In terms of comic relief, the antagonists steal the show in Season 2. The humor in their dialogues, the bald-faced lies traded with deadpan expressions among the Western Xia royal family had me in stitches. But it is the oddly gullible, absurdly superstitious, and unexpectedly sincere Yuchi Yuan that made me laugh hardest only to cry hardest when he admits he is someone that just needs to believe in divine intervention. Many supporting roles like Yuchi Yuan, the heroic Section 8, and the antagonists are so well written and dimensioned that they are the show stealers. Not only does Section 7's banter seem to lose its mojo, they also don't get to do the important tasks in the mission, other than show up for the finale. Indeed the main architect or spymaster is not from Section 7.

This season, most of the main characters grapple with the kind of person their father is, what he expects of them, and whether that is compatible with who they want to be. To different degrees, each parent and child take a measure of one another and don't quite like what they see. Yuan Zhongxin's dad may be a particularly nasty, cold-hearted, and misguided sociopath with questionable methods; but ultimately he wants his son to survive. This is not the case with Yuan Hao, who is the biggest, baddest, daddy of them all. Thanks to Hai Yitian's intimidating screen presence, Yuan Hao is a terrifying freak of nature, a giant rock formation that must have been hewn out of the sacred mountain itself. Just his menacing, diabolical appearance made me break out in cold sweat. Yuan Hao knows exactly what his son is up to and he gives him every opportunity, practically dares him to succeed. The dialogue within the dialogue and the dark humor behind barely veiled threats that petrifies poor Ningling Ge out of his wits is signature Wang Juan. I never felt more sorry for such a vile and duplicitous character; an apple that falls far, far from the tree. He seems diminished and less smart in Season 2, over-shadowed by the larger-than-life Yuan Hao. Father and son are both oddly pitiful to me as their story as recorded in history is already wildly dramatic and treacherous.

The plot is tighter and more focused than Season 1 because there is only one mission that spans several years with a time jump that interrupts the momentum slightly. The sub-plots are cleverly structured around the interplay of recurring themes around the father, the son and the holy sheep. At the time, the Tanguts practiced folk or natural relgion steeped in mysticism with shamans, and many spirits or gods. Like many ancient cultures, they believed that the ruler is divinely blessed but in times of chaos or natural disaster, can lose the mandate of heaven. In planning the mission, the yummy Wen Wuqi of Section 8 infiltrates Western Xia by assuming the identity of a sheep deity's envoy come to anoint Yuan Hao's regime. There are many allusions to fēngshén/封神 or the creation of gods, which is the underlying strategy the Song spies use initially to elevate and then subsequently to undermine Yuan Hao. Wang Juan's well researched and superbly written script clearly draws inspiration from Fēngshén Yǎnyì 封神演义 or The Investiture of Gods one of the great vernacular novels about Chinese history, mythology, folklore, fantasy and legends.

The ending will not come as a surprise to anyone who knows the history (or used Google). Even then, the finale delivers an epic showdown that the entire season builds up to. The fast paced and thrilling action choreography is one of the highlights of Season 2. The desperate, bloodthirsty and stunning final fight had me squealing, jumping up and down and bouncing off walls with adrenaline fuelled fear and excitement. I personally would have ended the story at the mid-way point of the final episode, where the ending credits roll. It is fitting and exactly the kind of irony, cynicism and dark humor I expect of Wang Juan. But that would have resulted in an outcry of gargantuan proportions and I equally enjoyed the final message that a father does not have to explain himself to his son. Despite the fantastic writing, I still wish the original team's chemistry worked a bit better. So for me, this was mostly tracking just a bit better than an 8.0/10.0 but I think ending a drama well is super important and I like the ending so much so I am happy to bump this up to an 8.5/10.0.

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Adulting, the Qi Zhai way

“Everyone was young once. The ambition during youth, sometimes, is just a nice dream. Now, it’s time to wake up. It’s time to grow up.” Wang Kuan’s dad, EP 5

~~~

“Youth… [you all] only know passion…, don’t know the way of the world.” Yuan Zhongxin’s dad, EP 15

~~~

“Growing up is not a bad thing. These 3 years with your own efforts, you all have your own direction and achievements. Why throw your lives at Xi Xia? Just treat Xi Xia as a youth’s dream. Now it’s time to wake up from this dream. Your futures now have other possibilities.” Si Gui Uncle, EP 16

~~~~~~

Season 2 picked up right where Season 1 left off. Our beloved Section 7 (Qi Zhai) find themselves with a new mission that brings them to Xi Xia - to kill the ruthless Yuan Hao who’d instigate wars to be the ruler of the world if he was not stopped.

And this would be the greatest challenge that Qi Zhai came across. Yuan Hao was almost invincible. At first blood, Qi Zhai barely survived their assassination attempt - they and we knew it was mainly due to Yuan Hao [kinda] letting them go.

As Qi Zhai went back to Da Song, there were many opposing voices, mainly from the older generation, who came from rightful places because Xi Xia would be a suicidal mission. We have Yuan Tian Guan, who’d rather disabled Yuan Zhongxin so the latter can’t go Xi Xia to die; Prime Minister Wang who lectured with Wang Kuan on the ways of the world, hoping the latter would “get it and grow up”; Si Gui Uncle and Bei Hexing who gave Qizhai another mission and way of living in hopes that the latter would love their new life and possibilities over going to Xi Xia.

If Season 1 was about a bunch of misfit teenagers who found camaraderie in each other at school, I’d say Season 2 was them finding their own roles and way of living in the world after graduating.

And their dynamics with their dads were the main theme of this season as they figured out what adulthood means to them. Yuan Tian Guan, Commander Wei and Prime Minister Wang were the more prominent dad figures where the tension with their sons were shown on screen. Prince Zhao’s expectations and “presence”, though absent from the show, can be greatly felt through Zhao Jian. Xue Ying’s dad was the supportive one. Pei Jing’s parents were the uncaring ones. The dynamics may be different for each family, but message remained - they all want their children to live.

I like how QiZhai dealt with these expectations. They heard their dads’ messages, but they also prioritised their inner voice and do things their way. And when they departed to Xi Xia once again, they were not accounting to any Headmaster or superior. They only had themselves to answer to and rely on.

To me, this is what proper independence and adulting looks like. …
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.
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Though this phrase feels like a graceful and appropriate way to end the review of Young Blood 2, I have to make shoutouts to the lovely supporting cast.

Yuan Hao’s and Ning Ling Ge’s relationship is the foil of another dad-son dynamics who put power higher than relationship. As ruthless as Yuan Hao was, he gave a lot chances to his son - whether for bloodline or because he arrogantly trusted his own invincibility, no one can tell for sure. But if anything one can say with conviction, it’s the fear Yuan Hao invoked in others and his ruthlessness - indeed, any of sane mind would not want to be his enemy. It was shown time and time again how strong, smart and ruthless Yuan Hao was. It seemed like he was born to kill - those who stopped Qi Zhai may be right, it’d be a suicidal mission and it didn’t have to and shouldn’t be a bunch of youths’ responsibility to stop this “monster”.

The Queen, the concubine and prime minister of Xi Xia had interesting personalities too - more the Queen than any other. I’d say she’s probably the “smarter” one among this Xi Xia royal family when you look at their endings.

Section 8 (Ba Zhai) are one of the stars of this show! Though their moment are short, it surely represents an epitome of youth and passion. I hope they all got a spin-off from this series - am sure a lot of us would be interested…if the story is done with care!

Let’s not forget Liang Mai Xiang, Si Gui Uncle and his rooster. They may be supporting characters, but they are also characters with their own defining traits. Ok, maybe not the rooster, but you know you can’t bring up Si Gui uncle without his rooster. I thought Liang Mai Xiang is only introduced as Xue Ying’s love interest - she did get her mini arc on taking over her dad’s position at Youzhou army.

If I list anymore characters, my review will start to lose focus. But, the last shoutout must be given to Yu Chi Yuan! He is the comedic relief of this more somber season, and probably more - the kind of character that creeps into you unknowingly.

Script, story and acting wise, I would say it’s still the Young Blood we love. And I am glad they managed to make this season came on screen. The only slight regret is the directing of the show who failed to capture some comedic moments timely. While I can’t professionally critique how, there’s an art to this skill which would make a difference in the production quality. Giving this a 10 is mainly my own bias.

For audience who had not watched Season 1, highly recommend to tune in to it first because the added context and background would increase the enjoyment of this story. For audience and die-hard fans of Season 1, I’d say both story, while related, are not the same kind of themes. Hence some elements of what we love in Season 1 would not be here in Season 2.

They are still the Qi Zhai we know. It’s just the Qi Zhai who are growing up. And that’s adulting, a phase we all go through.

While we may have our own expectations, let Qi Zhai show you their meaning of adulthood. It’s their story.

~~~~~~

“I know, people change. Maybe someday, I will betray my current self, and live life the way I hated. But the someday is not now. People will definitely change.

But some thoughts, some persistence shouldn’t be shaken. If growing up means killing my past self, abandoning my inner spark, then I rather be youth forever.” Wang Kuan, EP 5

~~~

“Qi Zhai wants to kill Yuan Hao, is not because of personal vengeance. It’s to prevent war and protect peace. The country has different bloodlines, but we all use the same language, experience the same ups and downs of life. To love the country is to love oneself.

Is it wrong? [to have passion]” Zhao Jian, EP 15

~~~

“Time changes people. We have been through a lot in these 3 years and maybe matured too.

But who’s to say after all these experiences, people can’t remain as youth.” Yuan Zhongxin, EP 16

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Decent sequel but NOT a must-watch, esp. if you forgot all about Season 1

*edit* Subjective Gut Rating: 8.25 (increased from 8.0)

I watched “Young Blood” season 1 during my obsessive C-drama watching year in 2021. I only vaguely remember the fun schooldays. I almost forgot that it ended on an unfinished note and was happy to hear season 2 is happening with almost the full cast back, especially for Steven Zhang and Zhou Yu Tong. But is season 2 just as enjoyable as season 1? After I read my notes on season 1, I am afraid it’s not as good.. It’s a decent sequel but the pacing is inconsistent and it did not hold my attention for the full 27 episodes.


What I Like:

Acting - The all around acting of the full cast is consistently great. The six main cast members did not disappoint, nor did they exceed my expectations. The drama also has a pretty good veteran supporting cast. Despite the change of actor for the role of Wei Ya Nei, it did not affect my viewing pleasure.

Individual character development - Although the three-year separation is a little weird for the overall plot, I am glad to see that it allows for each member of Section 7 to develop and grow. I am especially glad to see that innocent and sweet Pei Jing becomes more independent, and not just hide behind Wang Kuan. I am glad to see Yuan Zhong Xin and Zhao Jian continue to be the dynamic duo who understands each other and creates troubles together. I do wish to see more individual stories and the process of their individual growth and achievements.

Badass FL - Zhao Jian as the section leader was badass in season 1. I am glad she continues to be the calm and badass leader of the group. Oftentimes, this does not last for a full season, let alone two whole seasons. It’s so nice to not see a damsel in distress who needed to be saved by the male lead, or a female lead who loses her smarts when she’s in love.

Villain - I haven’t seen such an interesting villain in a while. Yuan Hao is not plain evil. Actually, aside from being an emperor in power and wanting to maintain his power, I don’t think the drama portrays him as a bloodthirsty evil person. He just wants what most emperors want. He’s looks menacing, is intelligent, sarcastic, funny and incredibly strong physically and mentally. Section 7 is full of smart team members, so it was nice to see how they try to outsmart Yuan Hao, and vice versa.

Section 8 - I assume they were introduced in season 1 but I had no recollection. But the small amount of screentime the three members of Section 8 have here impressed me. I actually want to know more of their history and stories. They were a surprising delight that stole the thunder from the main cast.

Costumes - I love all the costumes especially when the cast is in Xia traditional hairstyles and attires.


What I have mixed feelings about:

Romance - I love the more mature romances in season 2. Yuan Zhong Xin and Zhao Jian have a fun relationship as they have such similar personalities and are on the same wavelengths. The scene in prison where they pledged their love for each other in a unique way, is one of my favorite romantic scenes. Wang Kuan and Pei Jing continue their sweet love. It’s interesting to see them being the more lovey-dovey type and holding hands all the time. They are definitely not shy in showing some public display of affection. Wang Kuan is such a polite, mellow and gentle scholar that I would never have thought he could be a super protective and assertive boyfriend. Both couples understand and trust each other. However, despite liking how the romance is written, I think the chemistry is just decent. I wonder if it’s because the drama focuses too much on their mission, and the romantic moments are hard to come by. I feel that it’s such a waste as the romances and the four actors could have delivered so much more when given enough time.

Darker Tone/Comedy - I was a little taken back in the initial episodes as the drama started off with a more serious tone than I expected. It was quite political and comedic moments were lacking. But then, these comedic moments start to show up more, and unfortunately, I feel they were a little out-of-place. The comedy doesn’t seem to be as funny as before. Supporting character Yu Chi Yuan is the ‘clown’ of the drama. His dumb, comedic moments are fun for a while but then they happen way too often and I get annoyed.

Pacing - Personally, I feel that the middle of the drama dragged. The pace was great in the first ⅓ of the drama, then slowed down in the middle and picked back up in the last ⅓. Unfortunately, I lost my concentration during the slower episodes, and it fails to gain my full attention back even in the final episodes. Because the second season focuses on one main mission, there aren’t enough to keep me invested for 27 episodes. The pace would be better if this is a 24-ep drama, or if there are other smaller side missions that lead to the finale.

CGI/Action Scenes - If the drama spends money on costumes, it definitely saves money on CGI. We got some fake horseback riding going on here. Luckily, this is not a xianxia drama, so most of the fight scenes do not require CGI. Speaking of fight scenes, I was quite happy in the first couple episodes as we have some close combat fighting. But there aren’t enough throughout the drama and I do not enjoy the slow motion scenes they have in these fights. I was glad they did give us a final fight in the end and not just casually mention it.


Overall, I wish I had watched both seasons back-to-back as I might enjoy it better. I think if you want to skip season 1 and go straight to season 2, it’s possible as well. As I said, I forget almost everything in the first season. This is a decent sequel but not a must-watch. But if you like the cast and want to continue the journey with them, then it’s not bad.


Completed: 8/24/2023 - Review #343

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Section 8 Overshadowed Section 7

I originally watched part 1 this year so it wasn't a 4 year wait for me like many others. Going from 40 episodes and mostly comedy with intelligence to 27 and a much darker tone, set part 2 apart greatly from part 1. That and the fact that we met 3 members of section 8 that were destined to die and to me at least, they completely took over the series in terms of both action and caring about them from our beloved 6 heroes.

Pros: I really liked section 8's 3 members and felt that when they were on screen, they were much more important to this part than our main leads. Though they still managed to grow and mature while away plus the really random three year time leap that was stuck in there for whatever reason. I'm very glad that Pei Jing grew up as her character was the deer in the headlights always, hiding behind Wang Kuan. The drama made me feel the saddest when section 8's members were killed because even in their small amount of screen time, they made us really care about them and their martial arts skills were pretty awesome; on par if not better then Xue Ying's. Also when WK lost his arm, he being my favorite character, was really a sad and hurtful time but at the same time, it was good to see that even the best and brightest were only human. We got one smooch finally from our second couple but both couples had a few sweet moments here and there. Wasn't sure how I'd feel about the new actor replacing Bruce He to play Ya Nei but he fit the part really well. I'd seen the actor before in a modern, so he impressed me with going from doofus with the facial expressions to serious and realistic.

Big man YH was a great antagonist; he was ruthless, a great strategist, and just freaking huge. It took a lot to put him down but I'm glad they finally did. Was really the only real antagonist that made sense, the others were just dumb ants between his feet. Other good characters were PJ's brother, the dude who thought PJ was a dragon God but was there for comic relief more then anything else, YN's dad, the girl leading the military who had a thing for XY but she disappeared from the scene without an explanation. Costumes were great as were some of the sets, though not all. OSTs were nice too.

Cons: More plot holes than you knew what to do with. What started out as a rescue mission for ZJ's father ended up being an assassination plot just to help NL? In reality, they just wanted to prevent a war. But to understand all that took many episodes then necessary. Why so many stupid characters; Ding'er or Ning Ling, his mom, the son of sections' Chief; that character was bipolar....he's evil but he's also there for comic relief? It didn't make sense and threw the scenes off. Glad when he was off'd, just a waste of time and space.

What was up with all of these fathers? Obviously there was a time jump in the beginning but the way it was shown and expressed made zero sense. One faked treason but we never saw what information he delivered, the other appeared out of nowhere to cripple his own son for 3 years that he didn't even consider a son? That guy was a bastard. He didn't even go after YH in the end but let S7 do it and then just left. Like what was his point? You have insane martial arts skills that you prance around for a few episodes here and there but when it really counted, you just took on a few guards? Useless!

Lord, those horse scenes. I have no words. Them faux horseback riding and it going on and on and on was like watching a 1940s Western with color. Yes, this had a larger budget than season 1 but where did it go? Because that's like sticking a human on a mechanical prop that you don't even show but they're making riding motions et voila!

The ending was so underwhelming plus the misplaced ending credits. The only way S7 brought down mountain man was because they had help from a solar eclipse and a sandstorm which was apparently calculated by the ML and told to us in the second to last scene but it was truly a ??‍♀️ finale fight sequence, can't even call it a battle. I only gave it an 8 because of the acting and music and the fact that it finished out a cliffhanger storyline, so watchable.

Would I recommend it? To finish out part one yes. But I definitely liked part one more because it made sense and was better written.

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Sharing Life and Death - The Class 7 Advanced! — Mission Accomplished!!

If I were to describe the entirety of Young Blood S2 using only two (2) words, it would be astounding and satisfying! I will try my best to explain why through my review below.

Although I love this series very much, I will still admit that I have little to no recollection of what had happened in S1 and all I can remember are the main casts and how greatly I adored them. So I totally appreciate how they incorporated a short yet detailed summary of what had transpired in S1 on the 1st episode as it greatly helped me remember how the events unfolded back then and how the story should carry on moving forward where it left off. It was like a little refresher because they knew it has been a long time since S1 aired and people might have forgotten how the story went on and ended. How considerate! <3

I just wanna say as well that they did not disappoint even a little bit in regards to the plot, twists and overall story progression. As we may all know, 2nd seasons of such successful dramas are often viewed and treated as a poor and underwhelming continuation of the 1st season. However, I will boldly proclaim that Young Blood S2 isn't one of those. This sequel just proved me that the director, writer and casts loves and cherishes this project a lot that they spent time to reassemble to do this drama together once again; and although it's unfortunate that the original Ya Nei didn't reprise his role, I'm just glad that the actor who replaced him lived up and embodied the character and made it his own. I'm also grateful that the other 5 main actors was able to assume their original roles and made the Class 7 Team alive again.

I also want to mention how satisfied I am on how smooth and clever they handled the issue regarding the change of actor portraying Ya Nei. They explained it in a way where we can realize it's inexorable and is currently the best option to move forward with the drama filming. Surprisingly after that scene, all my worries and inhibitions about the new actor playing Ya Nei had completely vanished and it even helped me to watch them comfortably without any awkwardness and restraint.

Additionally, seeing them all together brings back so much fun memories! The nostalgia kicked back so hard, I was like a proud father in awe looking at how my children had grown up all these years into a fine, matured and capable individuals.

In terms of character and story, I'd say they all stayed the same and I'm just glad that they didn't try to change anything about their characters at all. The goofiness and unpredictable comical scenes are still there but lessened a lot; and I think that emphasized the risk and danger of the situation they're in. I never viewed it in a wrong way rather it made me realized how dangerous this mission is, and that people are forced to mature depending on the situation. Which is a great call from the writer and director as a sense of maturity for their characters. I also love how they all made it seem like nothing has changed... Synergy of Class 7 is still present and it always put me in awe how transparent they're to each other; that I never really have to worry about them individually because I know that they've got each others back and has developed this unbreakable trust between one another.

Deep diving into the most crucial parts now, which is the story plot and twists. All I can say is that 'THEY WENT ALL OUT'—I admired how they showed us the power and skill level of Class 7 during the 1st half of the drama and how will they fail miserable if they go on just like that. It was also like a wake up call that this mission is in a completely different level in comparrison to the previous ones they have had so far and that a timeskip is very much needed to cultivate and nurture their inner talents and unexplored potentials.

I mentioned above that I find this story 'astounding' and that is because of how brutal and merciless they went on with the killings and sacrifices. Wang Kuan losing an arm, Zhong Xin getting stabbed and impaired by his father, Class 8 getting murdered mercilessly were all so unexpected! But it was like a big slap... a representation of the severity level of this mission. That they cannot go on just like that with their current puny power and tricky skills. Not to mention how defeated and impossible it is for them to finish their mission even after the timeskip!

More so, something I was flabbergasted about is how their mission of killing Yuan Hao (King of Xia) sounded so simple yet complex and hard. That guy is the truest form of a Final Boss. He was like a monster that's impossible to be killed no matter how hard anyone tries and I immensely appreciate how they perfectly keep him that way until the very end. Because doing otherwise will make it look like giving our Leads a helping hand in order to defeat him (which will kill the logic and hype of the story) and I will be very honest, that idea is purely ridiculous to me in every single way. So for going against that I am extremely thankful and 'satisfied'. They genuinely saved this drama from going to the tropey and frustrating plot by doing so.

Lastly, I just want to commend this drama for its Martial arts choreography and execution. It just proves that a smart and wise utilization of the camera angles and tricks can make any works look incredibly fantastic! What a perfect arrangement and cuts of sequences. Those scenes are PEAK! + They were able to showcase how powerful the characters (Godly Yuan Hao & Master level Yuan Tian Guan) are until the very end without making them feel underwheling and weak in any ways. Thumbs Up!!

I also just have to mention how obvious and ugly the green screens are during the first half of the drama. Those moments are really hilarious to me. Thank god they improved (or changed Graphics artists? lol) halfway. Because the editing on the other half of the drama has become slick and flawless.

P.S. Yuan Zhong Xin and Zhao Jian's jail wedding scene is too iconic for me not to mention! I wish we could have had more lazy and purely fun additional episodes with just the gang fooling around. 27 episodes will never suffice...

Story - 10, I was planning on giving this a 9.5 rating (For the green screen issue I mentioned above) but how can I do that when they tremendously improved halfway and never missed after that? Also, I just couldn't fathom giving this entire production a score lesser than 10 after all the great works they've done to make this story as brutally realistic and logical as it is right now.

Acting/Casts - 10, No questions needed to ask. The set of actors are perfection; not to mention how the 5 original cast were able to come back and reprise their roles. Additionally, I wanna commend Fu Wei Lun for owning Ya Nei as a character for himself. I have never even once felt like something is off with him. What a great actor! Special mention to Hao Yi Tian and Zhao Bin... this drama wouldn't be as impactful and exciting without this 2 terrific professional senior actors.

Music - 10, I love how they utilized the same opening used in the S1 for S2 as well. It's like the starting point... the engine that fires up all the excitement and adrenaline inside of me. Knowing that I am to experience and enjoy another great things from the ever incridible Qi Zhai. The other music used are nice too, as they're mostly used to set the mood and was played in the most subtle manner.

Rewatch Value - 10, I must say that although this sequel has lesser comical relief scenes compared to the prequel, it has never lost any of its original touch and essense when it comes to Class 7/Qi Zhai's natural affinity and chemistry. + It even gives us a more mature and capable side of the team we all love. So this drama is one of those shows I would never regret rewatching if I have time to do so.

Overall - 10, This 2nd season is as satisfying and impressive as the S1. Although they have matured a lot and was put on an extremely tough predicament, they were able to get through all of it and gradually come victorious at the end! All I can say is to never let the 'Negative Reviews' affect your decision to watch this drama and just thoughtlessly dive into it! You will never regret doing so, most certainly! I'm giving you my assurance!

IF you find my review helpful please let me know.

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A Darker & More Mature Sequel

I thoroughly enjoy this so much. As opposed to popular sentiment, I love this season more than Season 1. People has been complaining about how this season is much more serious and lacking the ligheartedness of the previous season. But I think that's what make it outstanding.

All of the QiZhai members have been facing so much tragedies and losses (Yuan Zhongxin's beloved brother's tragic death, Zhao Jian also lost her father, Ya Nei's dad is in exile, and the death of their mentor, Lu GuanNian) it's only natural the tone is a lot more somber and they are getting more mature. If after all that they have faced & they still act like they did at the beginning of S1, the writer simply fail at character development.

The Good:

1. The Antagonists

Li Yuan Hao is such a menacing & vile villain but also intriguing at the same time. You want him dead yet a little part of you want him to survive. The actor did such a great job portraying the charismatic tyrant and he also a good looking guy with a beautiful smile (d*mn that smile *aggressively fanning myself).

I also love Yuan Tian Guan character. Not sure if he counts as antagonist but anyway. For me, him and Yuan Hao are the real scene stealers. I sat straight whenever both of them appeared on the screen bcs I know some real stuff was about to go down. Yuan Tian Guan is an abusive dad, no question. But the way he was protecting Yuan Zhongxin in secret is just classic dad move.

His method is extreme & ruthless, but once you get to know the real reasons behind his action, you kind of get him. He is the type of person that you just can't take his words at face value but rather you have to observe his action. When he showed up during the final showdown, I was so excited I literally screamed "yass papa yuan!"

Lu Nanshan is also good. He was so unintentionally funny. Despite his plan to betray the QiZhai, he was still willing to lend them money and it was a lot of money too! I love that scene. Ya Nei is really something else.

2. The Plot

I think the plot of S2 is a lot more tighter and well written compares to S1. The thing about S1 is the plot twist felt contrieved and forced most of the time. The whole time I was like "where the hell did that coming from??" But in this season, the plot twists are actually reasonable and make sense.

The storlyline is also a lot darker with a lot of tragedies. If S1 is a teenager espionage story, S2 is a proper wuxia drama.

3. The acting & casting

I don't know who the casting director is but I want to thank them from the bottom of my heart. I am obviously dissappointed that Bruce couldn't make it as Ya Nel bcs he was so iconic. But the new guy is surprisingly good. They did a great job casting someone that resembles Bruce (although he looks younger and thinner) so I didn't really have a hard time readjusting to the new face. I also love how Lu Nanshan actually kind of look like Lu Guan Nian. They definitely look like father and son.

The acting has improved a lot esp for Su Xiaotong. The scene where she stopped Wang Kuan's bleeding was so convincing and heartbreaking. You can feel all the emotions played out on her face.

The Bad:

1. Slow Start

I almost gave up halfway through the first ep bcs of how slow it was. Glad I persisted bcs once they arrived at Helan Mountain, the pace was improving.

2. Forced Humour

The humour among the QiZhai is there but it felt really awkward most of the time. The Wei royal family surprisingly did a great job with the comedic part.

3. Atrocious Eng Sub

I know it has nothing to do with the story itself but really Mango TV, you can't even hire a decent translator?? The only eps with decent subs are 1-4 and 25 & 26. Why the inconsistency?? I rely solely on context clue and my very minimal knowledge of mandarin chinese to get through most of it. Don't be stingy and hire a proper translator. Non-chinese speakers cdrama fans are actually doing a lot of free marketing in this era of social media so make a good use of it.

So, overall, I love it!

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None of the humor and pace of season 1

I will note that part of what makes this drama boring is that for where I live, only one episode per day airs separated by a week...if it were really an engaging story I'd stick with it and not mind the wait for a next episode but when I realized I couldn't be bothered to do so, I had to admit that while it's cool to have nearly the same cast (I love the leads from their other works) , there is nothing to the story to hold your attention to want to see what happens next, and actually there is a heck of alot of inactive dialogue scenes that I suppose moves the story forward but you say to yourself, 'huh, so what?"
That said, Mysterious Lotus Casebook airing at this same time is super dialogue-detective analysis heavy but it works for its plotline and the mischevious acting of the leads. So, I can't recommend this second season unless you are such a diehard fan of season 1.

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