Drama recommendations
Drama(s) that really struck me either because of storyline, great acting or it touches upon deep topics like mental health or life in general.
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1. Hidden Love
Chinese Drama - 2023, 25 episodes
I love the chemistry, and the character development of each individual actors. The overall storyplot was extremely cute, and full of fluff. The brother-sister relationship was very realistic to watch, Zhao Lusi's acting was incredible. She really embody the character she played from teenager to adult years. Chen Zhe Yuan, not only handsome, but his micro expressions were wonderful to watch. Hidden Love is somewhat a slice-of-life drama with focus on the two main leads. Definitely a must watch if you need a break from traditional dramas.
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2. Lighter & Princess
Chinese Drama - 2022, 36 episodes
Lighter & Princess is not your average modern c-drama. The characters are computer science majors, we would typically see them writing codes and creating new programs, etc. The male lead is a prodigy in computer science, while the female lead is basically book smart but doesn't fall behind the male lead. What I enjoy about this drama is Chen Feiyu's micro expressions, and his subtle care for the female lead, Zhang Jingyi. He has a lot of internal problems hence he was quite reserve in this drama. Jingyi's character is able to break through all of his walls and understand him from deep within. She does not have a prejudice towards him compare to most people around them. I love the chemistry and bond between the leads, and their journey to being in love once again.
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3. Tomorrow
Korean Drama - 2022, 16 episodes
Regardless of the hate from a boygroup fans, this drama is still highly recommended from me because it touches upon "taboo" topics people would be afraid to talk about in general. In my opinion, I believe this is a very imperative drama to society - might be a hyperbole here but I think everyone should watch it. It helps one understand what depression is, or how one treats another can result in such dire situations. It may validate one's feeling when no one else can to be honest...
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4. The Elfin's Golden Castle
Chinese Drama - 2018, 32 episodes
This is a 22-25 min episode webseries. I really enjoyed this drama a lot because it touches upon a girl who doesn't know how to love or be loved. Therefore it shows on her personality where she is rude, and mean to others. She tends to rebel due to lack of parental love and no one ever understanding her. She eventually found a group of friends that taught her how to love, be compassionate, and helping others. Love and everlasting friendship.
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5. When We Were Young
Chinese Drama - 2018, 24 episodes
Refreshing and cute drama. Not much romance (lots of crushes/hints though) but has a lot to do with young typical teenagers going through school exams. Then there's things they deal with at home and with friends outside of school. It's a chillax drama if you love to watch without getting angry. There is some character I personally disliked but it was overall a great and wonderful drama. I cannot stop recommending to newbie cdrama watchers!
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6. Ever Night
Chinese Drama - 2018, 60 episodes
One of my top favorite wuxia dramas of this generation. It's been a while since I was so excited to watch a wuxia that isn't a remake of my favorites. Chen Feiyu acted very well. He reminded me of Hu Ge who played Li Xiao Yao in Chinese Paladin. Just the way he acts in the drama reminded of him and made me continue to watch the drama.
What sets this drama apart is the martial system and how they learn and create techniques. I love the talisman visual effects but that's besides the point. The 12 disciples were very cute, helpful, heartwarming and accepting of Ningque and I really loved their relationship with Ningque! Typically you would think they hate each other but they're all friends! Chen Pipi, the 12th shige was a cute and hilarious brother to Ningque. I loved his overall character!
The main actress is actually older than Chen Feiyu but she looks very young and is not your typical fairy-like heroine of wuxia dramas. She does everything for Ningque since they were kids. Eventually grew to love him, and vice versa. I initially adore their relationship but eventually it just seemed awkward. However, I accept that not all couples needs to be all handsome, pretty, about the same height, etc. Its cute in the end.
The ending was lackluster but then there's a season 2 with a new actor instead of Chen Feiyu which I am VERY VERY disappointed about but I'll watch it to continue the story haha.
Overall I recommend this drama a lot. -
7. Story of Yanxi Palace
Chinese Drama - 2018, 70 episodes
Yingluo is one of my most favorite Chinese historical drama character. In the midst of scheming of other consorts, Yingluo is quick witted, smart, and able to fight her way up the rank. Even able to get away with death if she talked back to a royal. haha
I really enjoyed this drama despite not being a huge fan of palace dramas. Definitely recommend.
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8. Joy of Life
Chinese Drama - 2019, 46 episodes
My review on the page would suffice to why I recommend this to anyone.
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9. The Untamed
Chinese Drama - 2019, 50 episodes
There are many reasons to love this drama, but my main reason is the main couple's subtle love for one anoher is just chef's kiss. If you're tired of your conventional, typical romance dramas, I highly recommend The Untamed.
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10. Love Like the Galaxy: Part 1
Chinese Drama - 2022, 27 episodes
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11. The Blood of Youth
Chinese Drama - 2022, 40 episodes
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12. The Starry Love
Chinese Drama - 2023, 40 episodes