Great drama. Don't miss it! Beware! Wrong title!

24 episodes 15 minutes each.

I always steer clear of short episodes as I find them too shallow and unfulfilling. However, I recently stumbled upon a teaser of this intriguing drama on YouTube. I watched the first episode and was immediately hooked. Despite the fact that episodes 15 and beyond were not available anywhere else, I subscribed to Youku because I knew I had to watch the full drama - that's how good it is.

Of course, there were some inconsistencies in the story, such as the title of the drama itself. The main character is an eunuch, not a governor, but my guess is that Chinese censorship had a say in it. Even though it's a possible Chinese taboo to imagine an eunuch in love, this drama managed to execute the plot without making it feel cheap or tacky. The actors were brilliant and the storyline was captivating - I couldn't ask for more from a drama.

In conclusion, I highly recommend this drama to anyone who wants to watch something that is well-produced and engaging.

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I just wanna cry. So disappointed

(If interested in what happened in the novel, I wrote a lengthy recap about the divine temple and his mother, Wu Zhu, Chen PingPing, the emperor and his death, and the ending (last chapter 7). Check the 3 separate comments tagged spoiler)

**
After finishing the last episode of Season 2, I can't help but feel a mix of surprise and disappointment. While I did enjoy some moments, overall, I found myself questioning some of the creative choices and missing the magic of the first season.

Season 1 holds a special place in my heart. It's at the top of my list. I was so invested in it that I ended up reading the novel, which spans 746 chapters and over 5501 pages. To my delight, I discovered that Season 1 stayed true to the novel, accurately portraying the characters and the story. The martial arts scenes were executed well, although not as detailed as the novel, and every character was perfectly cast. Season 1 truly stands out as a masterpiece.

Season 2 sadly did not reach my expectations. Everything was rushed. The arcs completely changed. They were mixed. I did not recognize the main characters like a second prince or the crown prince. The villainess character of the story, the eldest princess, appears only in the last part of the season when she is THE main villain of the story. I am trying to think of one character who did not change, and I found one: Fan Jian, his father. Okay, let's make two, his father-in-law, the prime minister. And three with Da Bao (Kudos for this incredible performance! It's Not easy to play with realism and a simple mind).

Fan Xian character went from being an arrogant mastermind to a submissive, almost tearful figure in the first part of the season. His actions, such as begging and kneeling in front of the emperor, were a far cry from the Fan Xian in the novel. I missed the strategic genius who could outmaneuver his opponents and exploit their weaknesses. Despite the change, he remained lovable, thanks to the acting skills of the ML (Zhang Ruo Yun). I felt relieved that his true personality returned in the last part of Season 2. But it was a little too late; I lost the excitement of watching the drama. Plus, the unnecessary comedic elements introduced by the screenwriter detracted from the season's enjoyment. Even if some, I admit, were funny, it was too much. But too much change, too much difference in personalities. The magic of season 1 was not there.

The last 2 episodes were rushed. And where was the grand apotheosis expected in the last minutes of season 2? Those special moments that ended and left us all on our toes, just like season 1? He got back his zhenqi. So what?

I am SO SO disappointed.

I understand the reasons. The TV producers wanted to create a period romance (A) even though the novel is a period thriller drama (B), so the focus is completely different. The TV producers started with B in season 1 and then switched to A in season 2 with no transition or logic. It was as if season 1 was following the novel, and in season 2, they got inspired but created a brand new storyline. It was brutal.

It was all talk, unnecessary talk, but no action. Where was the tyrannical zhenqi that took a considerable place in the novel? Yes, he touched here and there with his fist to show that his meridians were messing with his body, but no cultivation, practice, or fight except for the big one in the season, which was very well choreographed. But only one? Did the production cut the budget in half? Because that's precisely what I'm thinking after the end of season 2. The teasers/previews were so good, though… *sigh*

Yes, the story is extensive, spanning 746 chapters filled with numerous events, making it challenging to condense into just 3 seasons. I'm perplexed why the first season was a success, but the second season fell short. What could have gone wrong? Did the screenwriter lose his touch or encounter some personal issues? Was it a lack of budget? Was it a change of executive producer? Was it production executives' pressure that led to the decision to rewrite the arcs completely? I ensured that it was the same screenwriter for both seasons, but I'm uncertain about the involvement of the art producer and other staff members. Don't get me wrong, the actors and actresses were equally good in both seasons. It's the material they were given that made season 2 chaotic. Yes, reducing the number of episodes was an issue 46 vers 36. But then why not negotiating a S3 S4 and even S5? S1 was a mega-hit, I cannot believe budget was the issue, was it?

The screenwriter made too many changes to the stories and arcs, which was the main problem. It was like stuffing an elephant into a mouse pit. It just did not work. Events that were supposed to happen at the end of the novel were added in the middle of season 2, such as revealing that the emperor was a grandmaster. I understand that a TV drama differs from a novel and that not everything can be included. I also understand that some characters may be missing, such as Sisi the concubine. However, it felt like the show was all over the place.

I'm grateful I only had to wait 3 months, not 5 years, to watch season 2. I also found a fantastic novel and discovered several talented Chinese actors I now follow. However, I'm disappointed that season 2 didn't have the same "wow" factor for me as season 1.

I didn't notice much effort put into the soundtrack, either. There wasn't much difference in the original soundtrack (OST) except for the generic and epilogue. I even recognized some of the music from season 1. However, one piece of music that I hope never to hear again is the Swiss yodelling. It was used, reused, and overused. One or two good jokes are funny, but several become clownish. I can't forget how the screenwriter mocked Jing Ge, the general of the black guards.

In the drama, there were many inconsistencies and changes in the characters' personalities. For example, Wan’er, who wanted to kill Wu Zhu, the most powerful character, and Cheng Ping Ping, a strong supporter of Fan Xian, became a suspicious foe, even though they are two genius soul mates in the story. Additionally, the second prince turned evil without really taking any action. Many characters needed more screen time for proper understanding. Sweet relationships never developed, such as the first prince (not that I read many in the novel, but after the naive bland outburst at the meal 3+3, I expected to see her again!), the alcoholic empress (invented), and the undeveloped boring and useless Ming episodes(few dozen chapters in the novel). Wu Zhu acting like a crazy robot and demanding assistance from his sister were also confusing. Every single scene was full of confusing moments for me. I wanted to recognize the big moments in the novel, not a poorly executed remake with no depth and no logic. Production should have spent less on the flower's eldest princess and more on martial arts choreography! Where was the magic of the 300 poems? Where was the tension and puzzle of who was a friend and who was a foe? Gone. All gone.

The drama made quite a few changes to the original events. I constantly compared the show to the novel, trying to understand why the screenwriter made such extensive alterations. Some plotlines were easy to follow, while others left me very perplexed. I'm thinking about re-watching this season soon, hoping to gain a new perspective. I'm not entirely convinced, but I'm open to seeing it in a different light.

After reading various reviews and comments, it seems that this season is not universally liked. However, there are also many outstanding reviews. I will check the reviews in a few months when the dust has settled. That will give me a better idea of whether this drama is a success or a failure. Considering there is a season 3 (confirmed during the press conference for season 2), I hope they will make the necessary adjustments!

Until season 3... FL said during her farewell interview that it would be Chapter 7.

S1: chapters 1-2-3-4
S2: inspired by chapters 5-6 (no events or scenes or dialogues seen in drama can be found in the novel)
S3: chapter 7 (lots of martial fights, 2 mega battlefields… hope they'll get the budget!)

Again, if you want to read the spoiler about Fan Xian's mother and the Divine Temple. Check my comments :)

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Beautiful first love sweet story... Like a fairytale everyone wished to have

Hold on to your seats because I've got to tell you about this drama that blew my mind! I mean, Rosy Zhao's performance was out of this world, and her physical transformations were so on point that I had to do a double-take. From a teenager to a young adult, she crushed every single aspect of her character's portrayal.

And let's not forget about the electrifying chemistry between the two leads - it was absolutely off the charts! Their on-screen relationship was so genuine that I felt like I was watching real life unfold right before my very eyes. I can confidently say that this drama has earned a spot in my top three list of must-watch dramas, and I'm sure it will have the same effect on you too, regardless of your age.

The entire cast was spot on, and each member brought their A-game to the table. The actress who played the protagonist's mother was particularly impressive, and I was blown away by her talent.

In conclusion, I urge you to watch this drama if you're looking for a heartwarming, feel-good story that will leave you with a smile on your face and a sense of nostalgia. Trust me when I say that you won't regret giving this drama a chance - it's a must-watch that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish!

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Perfection, even if season 1 ends dramatically.

Yeah, yeah, another fan is writing a review and rambling about it. lol

ETA: this review was written before season 2 was aired.

*Story*

I was thoroughly engrossed in this drama. The storyline was captivating, and its ability to hold my attention was unparalleled. Each episode was masterfully crafted to add mystery and intensity to the plot, leaving me on the edge of my seat, eagerly anticipating what would happen next. I was so invested in the characters and the story that I binge-watched all 46 episodes in one go, completely glued to my screen.

This drama is a true masterpiece, encompassing all the necessary elements to make it a thrilling experience. From the complex and intriguing plot to the romantic subplots that will leave you breathless, from the gripping drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat to the humorous moments that will lighten up the atmosphere - this drama has it all. It is a perfect blend of various emotions and genres that will keep you hooked and entertained from start to finish.

*memorable scene*

- 100 Poems Night ep 27

*Casting*

ML was fantastic! His acting skills were undeniably remarkable, and he portrayed his character with wit, humour, intelligence, and an overall lovable personality. All the other actors and actresses were equally impressive, but I must give a special mention to the Emperor, who was simply outstanding. From the beginning, I knew that he was undoubtedly the protagonist's father, and his objectives were to test him to be his successor. That's my take on Season 2 anyway, and I can't wait to see how the story unfolds. I must also highlight the exceptional performance of the child who played the lead role. Wow. Just wow.

Season 1 of "Joy of Life" was broadcast in 2019, the same year as "The Untamed," which starred Xiao Zhan. Although I adored him in "The Untamed," I must say that I wasn't as impressed with his character in "Joy of Life." Perhaps it's because his role didn't allow him to shine as much, and his supporting role as a villain didn't help matters either. His character never allowed him to smile, and we know his smile is his trademark. Rumours are he has been replaced for Season 2, but we'll have to wait and see.

*Director, production*

An exceptional drama encompasses a variety of important factors. First and foremost, a great script is essential to hook the audience and keep them engaged throughout the storyline. The right actors and actresses are also crucial, as they bring the characters to life and add depth to the drama. A budget that allows for wow factors such as stunning costumes, an impressive movie set, special effects, lot of extras and martial arts choreography can also elevate the drama to the next level.

However, even with all of these elements in place, the drama can still fall flat without a clear vision from the director. The director's vision must be cohesive and consistent throughout the drama to ensure that everything comes together seamlessly. Additionally, edits must be done with precision and skill to avoid any jarring or disjointed transitions. With all of these factors working in harmony, an exceptional drama can be created that captivates and enthralls its audience.

*Love story*

The drama's plot does not revolve around romance, but the main lead (ML) falls in love with a beautiful young girl at first sight. After a few misunderstandings, they get engaged. Amidst political challenges, the girl becomes part of a small circle of people that ML trusts. However, hints dropped in season 1 suggest that the story will not have a happy ending and that the martial artist QI girl (Haintang) will play a significant role in the romantic aspect of the drama. This is my interpretation, but nothing is confirmed. It is obvious to me that the emperor of Qi is a woman. I am wondering the story behind this. Rumors say there is more to her and ML.

This drama is not centred around love. Love is only a political accessory. So, it will be interesting to see this part unfold in the next three seasons, which is a trilogy.

*music*

Once in a while, a drama produces music that I become obsessed with. It happened with “Eternal Love”, “Faith”, “Love like the Galaxy”… and “Timeless” sung by Xiao Zhan. I had no idea the images were from Joy of Life. This clip video is a masterpiece, plain and simple.

*cons, inconsistencies*

In my opinion, the modern-day part where the guy explains his story and the last part when we are back to the modern days were completely unnecessary and added nothing to the storyline. His character is already established as an anomaly due to his mother coming from an advanced technology society. Therefore, his genius intelligence, his knowledge to be out of time and place and photographic memory can be easily explained.

*special effects, martial arts choreography*

The drama was aesthetically pleasing and visually engaging. However, I noticed that there were instances where the edits were not perfectly synchronized, and it seemed like multiple takes were needed to achieve the desired outcome. Despite this, I still believe the overall production was very well executed and enjoyable to watch.

The sheer magnitude of the budget allocated to this drama is evident in every frame. The attention to detail is impeccable, and nothing seems to be done in a rushed or haphazard manner. The presence of numerous extras in almost every scene adds to the authenticity of the drama and makes it feel more genuine and immersive. Overall, it is a testament to the high production values and the filmmakers' commitment to delivering a top-notch viewing experience.

*how I understand the story but primarily questions*

The clues are scattered and plentiful, enough to keep me on edge and make me wonder about what, when, how, and who.

**His mother: how and why did she leave her world? I assume she escaped something or somebody. She went with a destructive firearm of mass destruction. Why? Why did she leave to find the blind martial artist? She seems to know the past and future. Who killed her? Was she captured by her own world people?

**Blind martial artist: he lost his memory, but everything in him looks like a robot. Is he from his mother's world? Who is he?

**Clues: His mother's book allows people to become grandmasters, the highest level a martial practitioner can reach. Where is this book? His mother explained the Ice Age and the circle of life with the return of the feudal era. How did ML know all these poems? Where did he read them? How did he get all the past knowledge?

**Divine temple: how does the wheeling chair villain know this place? What was his relationship with his mother? Did he kill her and why?

**3 amigos: emperor, wheelchair villain and adopting father… they seemed very close friends in their youth, then his mother married the prince next to be emperor. They seemed to have made a pact of silence

*Conclusion*

I recently watched the trailer for the second season, and we are in for another great ride. However, I also anticipate another bittersweet ending that will lead to the third season (nothing confirmed yet, my own assumption ). Despite my preference for happy endings, I am willing to make an exception for this show, which I consider a true masterpiece.

As someone who recently watched the first season of this drama, I consider myself lucky that I did not have to wait for five long years for the second season. According to rumours, the second season is set to be aired in mid-2024, which is quite a long time from now. However, I can confidently say that this drama is one of the best out there and is worth the wait. The plot, the characters, and the overall production are all top-notch, making it memorable and highly recommended for anyone who loves dramas. In fact, I would even say it's a must-watch and rewatch for anyone who enjoys good storytelling and quality entertainment.

If you want to read my review about season 2: https://mydramalist.com/54083-joy-of-life-season-2

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Avoid!

I'm sorry to say this, but there is simply nothing positive to highlight about this. In my honest opinion, this is one of the worst dramas I have ever watched. The cast may have gotten paid, but that's about the only consolation. It's clear that the scriptwriter and director were not up to par, as the characters come off as childish and immature. And don't even get me started on the casting choices - who in their right mind thought it was a good idea to cast an aunt who looks like a disguised teenager?

I strongly advise against wasting your time on this one. The script is horrendous, the cast is subpar, the plot is messy, the chemistry between the characters is non-existent, and there is no happy ending to make up for it

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Somehow better after a re-watch

I completely agree with most reviewers who have criticized the show's script. It was difficult to put the dots on i, lacking coherence and essential parts to make the story understandable.

I thought at first it was the actor's, Zheng Ye Cheng's, fault but then I watched a couple of behind-the-scenes clips and concluded that Zhao Lu Si and Zheng Ye Cheng had incredible chemistry which doesn't surprise me because every male partner she worked with and loved her. She is funny and natural. It was clear as day they liked each other. This reminds me that I need to change my review of the drama “Under the Power”: the issue was never Zheng Ye Cheng, it was the actress and the script/director. Anyway, “Love in a Thousand Years” was good but it could have been THE drama of the year with better edits.

I had to wait for many episodes to understand he saw her die and be reborn 10 times within a thousand years. It took me many episodes to grasp that he loved her but didn't want to force her to reciprocate his feelings; hence, he became her protector. But even then, it was a struggle to understand. His constant smirking was bewildering until I realized it was an immortal's indulgence towards his beloved mortal.

I think the part that was terribly edited was the transition from new face up to immortal mountain. I needed more from the immortal who helped her, why did he changed his mind, how did she learn magic, etc. What happened during those 3 years was missing and this was important enough that I would have understood better the story.

The sudden shift in Lusi Zhao's character's love interest without any discernible transition only served to highlight the poor writing of the script. While the idea of true love spanning a thousand years and the protagonist waiting for his love interest to be reborn multiple times was intriguing, the sudden change of heart was utterly inexplicable.

On a positive note, the chemistry between the actors was very good. All the actors were good though. I like both main leaders. I follow their career close.

So yes, I recommend this drama but keep in mind that the script is unclear and it will take time to understand the full story.

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Pale copy of the story of Ming Lan…

I'm a bit disappointed. I expected more.

I love seasoned actors. Sadly I found another copy of the actor Allen—good actor who is unable to play romance and lack chemistry with his partner. They both had in common the same female lead. I am not sure if they are all unlucky to parter them, if it is the script or director or if they are unable to act romantic scenes. They are all good but not together.

After Under the Power, I gave her another chance. Indeed, it was much better. I was spared with another childish female lead… Instead, we got a femalee victim bullied by everyone for over 11 episodes. Glad it said it was a work of fiction each intro of each episode because it was completely irrealistic.

Post edits production is poorly executed. Missing major scenes that explained behavior and actions. Terrible.

In Episode 12, the main character insists she knows what to do but is constantly bullied. No backbone. It takes too long to to see her defended by her husband. They cut few important scenes, yet kept redundantones. The drama revolves around villains. Each 3 concubines, the old matriarch, the sister in law, the sisters. Except 1 maid, all women are villains. The only trustedperson is of course her maid telling her that being passive is worse., but she prefers to be a victim and claims she doesn't care. I really dislike her attitude, so I skipped many useless conversations.

To summarize, the male lead slept with two concubines and his ex-wife. He has two kids, and one concubine lost a child during childbirth. Then he lost physical interest to all because he could not stand women in general and their pettiness. He always feels guilty for mistreating the heroine, yet never asserts himself. I understand the matriarch is the queen of any Chinese family, but the romance was still not visible before episode 35.

It got better when he realized he fell for her around episode 15. But because she is a prude virgin, he never crossed the line… with his wife. Typically, the Chinese were seeing the collar skin is considered erotic. (rolling eyes) As if a married man did not sleep with his wife for years.

In Episode 21, the matriarch said she was upset with the concubine, Qiao, but the scene was cut in production, so it's unclear what she was referring to. Then the male lead spent an hour in the favorite concubine's bedroom as per the servant. This raises the question of whether he had sex with her as a birthday present. Additionally, the female lead said that the male lead gave his heart and she will give hers, but it's unclear when this happened. Furthermore, he slept with the concubine despite this. It all seems very inconsistent. The cuts in scenes seem unprofessional. They wanted to reduce the number of episodes, but at times, it made no sense.

Another thing that deserves its own paragraph… when FL married ML, his sister in law was pregnant. It is said numerous times that FL spent 2 years since her arrival. Ahem. 2 years pregnancy? The scriptwriter is plain stupid. That's the only explanation.

Compared to the story of Ming Lan, this drama is average. The storyline focuses on how to bully as much as possible and how the villains are rewarded. Like a few others here, I also do not see the chemistry between the main couple. He reminds me of Allen. He's a good actor, but he should never be cast in a romance drama.

The romance between the main couple is based on trust and honesty. I'm not sure if bumping into someone or falling physically due to bumpy roads or missed steps can be the big love revelation, but it seems to be in this drama. "I touched you by accident, and then I must be falling in love" - it's all quite ridiculous.

The drama is watchable, but annoying. I am not impressed with the direction/post production in general. It was poorly executed. Amateurs.

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Nope. Don't waste your time

I mistakenly believed that the drama was an Academy Martial Arts drama, but it turned out to be far from it. The plot is needlessly ridiculous, the cast is below average, and the conclusion is utterly disappointing.

The storyline about a girl searching for her origins is overshadowed by a ridiculous love triangle between two guys and herself, where none of them seem to be genuinely in love with each other. The way I interpreted it was one guy had a crush on both male and female but because of the Chinese censor it is just blurred. However, many jealous scenes suggest he wanted the other guy's attention. The girl went back and forth but kept them both in the friend zone. No happy ending, no love story. A possible threesome or just friendship.

But that's not the worst part. The master is a joke, and the villains are laughable. And don't even get me started on the annoying sound effects that include stomach growling, footsteps, and eating noises. I mean, seriously, who wants to listen to that?

Trust me, don't waste your time watching this mess. It's a bad idea, and you'll regret it.

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A cute college drama

I believe it's important to avoid jumping to conclusions.. It's easy to watch a few college dramas and make assumptions, but that doesn't make them accurate. Let's strive to be more discerning and informed before drawing comparisons and forming opinions. If the dramas have a similar storyline or the story from the same book/author, that's one thing, but if they are completely dissimilar in terms of plot and cast, then it's misleading for people to base their reviews on such comparisons.

With that being said, I loved this drama. Initially, I had my doubts about the female lead's appearance, but as the show progressed, I found myself growing fond of her cross-genre character.

The five main actors in the drama were fantastic. However, I did find one of them quite confusing at first. He seemed like a bodyguard in disguise, but then it hit me – the so-called "bad boy" with a golden heart.

The drama had its fair share of cliches, such as the villains, the mean twins, the jealous brother, and the naive young girl falling for the girl disguised as a boy. And let's not forget the female killer spy prostitute and the boy falling for the boy who is a girl. Despite all of this, I found the drama to be highly entertaining.

One thing that did bother me was the use of sound effects, such as crickets to indicate night-time and crows to amplify awkward moments. It all seemed a bit childish to me, but I understand that this drama is aimed at Asian teenagers, and cultural differences may play a role in this.

Adding eyeshadow on the disguised man by the makeup artist was a poor choice that did not add any value. It only served as a distraction and made the entire look unconvincing. Such unwise decisions need to be avoided and not encouraged.

Let's take a moment to recognize the tireless efforts of crickets, who are often called upon to provide background noise during night scenes or to enhance the mood of an awkward scene. It's easy to forget the burden they carry as they jump from one task to another. Let's show some empathy for these little creatures. Let us extend a special word of encouragement to our feathered friends as well, the ducks, crows, and birdies. May they find the strength and resilience to thrive in their drama script environment. :D

While the credibility of the show may be debated, I found it to be quite entertaining. Despite a few inconsistencies in episodes 16 and 17 (War), I was able to overlook them as my expectations were not very high when I started watching.

Overall, I found the pace of the drama to be quick enough to keep me interested. Normally, I tend to lose interest around mid-season, but this drama was cute enough to keep me hooked. There were also a few funny moments which added to my enjoyment.

In conclusion, I would say that this is a good drama, despite its flaws.

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If you are willing to wait for 2/3 of the drama to finally see the love story…

I must say, I found it quite frustrating that it took a whopping 20 episodes to finally reveal the genre of the female lead. Until then, all we saw was her being subjected to physical punishment by male characters for no apparent reason. And let's not even get started on the villains who showed up way too late in the series and acted like children. The plot was nothing short of childish, and the mother/madam/villain got away with multiple murders without any consequences. It was just ridiculous!

The female lead receiving the Imperial position at just 18 years of age was a bit far-fetched, and the physical wounds she received, such as whipping, didn't seem to reflect the severity of the situation. It was as if she got away with just a few scratches, which miraculously healed within a few hours. Many actors played their characters in an annoying, childish manner, and the music was not up to the mark.

The storyline about a guy falling for a guy who is actually a girl was stretched way too much, and it became quite nauseating after a while. I had been waiting for the female lead's genre to be revealed for so long, and it was quite disappointing to have to wait until the latter half of the series. The whole thing just felt like the scriptwriters were trying to drag the series on for as long as possible.

While the two male leads were great actors and definitely handsome, the female lead felt one-dimensional, and I'm not sure if I can solely blame the script for that. I prefer heroines who are more sassy and not doormats. Watching bullies for more than half a series was a major turn-off.

Although there were a few funny scenes that saved some episodes, overall, the series was a letdown.

After careful consideration, it's safe to say that the slow pace of the love story and the frequent occurrence of verbal and physical abuse make this drama less enjoyable for repeat viewings.

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Childish, annoying, no chemistry, plot all over the place… complete disappointment!

I have to be honest, the show I watched was a complete disaster. The plot was unclear until mid-season, there was no chemistry between the lead characters, and the love story didn't even show up until episode 33. The flashbacks became nauseating, and the point of view was used to justify a love that had no foundation. The show had ghosts that were not even ghosts, and zombies that were not even zombies, making it a big mess TV drama created for teenagers. The main heroine's acting was annoying and childish, and her childhood friend was no better. The heroine was almost on the verge of death, and a sip of tea was enough to bring her back to normal within minutes.

The only saving grace of the show was HanDong. Allen's character was annoyingly poker-faced until mid-season, but he had depth, and the actress who played him did a great job. The show was also saved by a few secondary character performances, but HanDong was exceptional in his sadistic villain role.

The leads in that match were terrible. It's unacceptable to portray a 12-year-old love story with a 30-year-old man, and even if the character claims he is 22 and she is 17, it's clear that he looks way older while she looks like a spoiled brat teenager. Such teen romance dramas should be avoided by Allen. The casting was a complete miss, and individually, the actors were good (except Seven Tan in my opinion). However, it's evident that they had to work with a terrible script and directors. It's beyond me why this show is popular, and I have no clue about it.

I cannot help but think chemistry with the main characters would have been way different with Zhao Lusi… such “Love a Thousand Years”.

I really didn't think the casting was good. I also blame Allen for this. It seems like he really dislikes kissing his partners. His acting also seemed very forced and not convincing at all. It almost makes me wonder if his contract specified a minimum number of kisses and hugs. I felt the same way about the drama "One and Only."

The amateurish play from the female lead, abysmal editing, poor casting choices, substandard makeup, gratuitous close-ups to force-feed us the supposed romance, misplaced props, glaring plot holes, lack of on-screen chemistry... One measly kiss accompanied by a one-sided love confession, countless flashbacks, and hand-holding? Are you kidding me? And don't even get me started on the anachronistic music cues that make no sense. Oh, and let's not forget the characters wearing summer clothes during a snowstorm. This is unacceptable.

After reading some top reviews, I can't help but shake my head in disbelief. The childish play between the two main characters completely ruined any chance of enjoyment for me. If you're looking for a teenage drama, be my guest, but if you're an adult, save your time and move on to something better. I won't make the mistake of watching any dramas directed by Yin Tao and Liu Guo Tong again. Did they write the script based on fan feedback? The show was poorly executed, yet somehow it received praise from the public. It seems I must be living in a parallel C-drama world where quality and substance still matter.

The female lead did not make it any better. If the same actress is cast as a main character again, I will make it a priority to remove her from my list. It was an excruciating experience, and I only continued watching to see the Han Dong villain's final moment.

I hate childish play, voices and actresses. Watching her break up with just two sentences was painful and unconvincing. It was a juvenile play, lacking the depth and maturity required to evolve a character through dramatic events. In my opinion, there is a clear difference between youth and innocence and the kind of character development that genuinely captivates an audience.

The movie failed to deliver any romantic moments. Just one kiss on the lips amidst all the drama. It felt like watching a grown man holding a child in his arms, which was quite disturbing. The use of eye drops to show emotions on screen felt fake and forced. Overall, the drama was painful to watch.

Therefore, I cannot recommend this show to anyone looking for quality storytelling.

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Childish but cute

This is a light-hearted and family-friendly drama that I'd recommend if you enjoy gentle entertainment. The script is the only letdown here, not the performances by the actors. The series has a happy ending for three couples and spans across 24 episodes.

The series has some childish and unbelievable moments, but the martial arts scenes are well done and visually stunning. It has plenty of humor throughout. Overall, it's important to note that if you're expecting something like "The Imperial Cononer," this drama is quite different – it's full of inconsistencies and geared towards viewers who enjoy lighthearted drama, sweet romance, and tidy, happy endings for all.

I found the childish characters in the drama quite off-putting, but surprisingly, the female lead was enjoyable to watch. I felt that she had good chemistry with the male lead, and both of them portrayed their characters convincingly. The supporting cast also delivered solid performances, which added to the overall quality of the drama.

In my opinion, while the drama may not be exceptionally memorable, it could serve as a nice change of pace after watching a more intense or serious series.

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I have mixed feelings about it, good but need more seasons to become great

The following is a review of Season 1 of a drama series that left me with mixed feelings about its ending. The season ends bittersweetly with a promise of continuation. The drama has some good points, but it also has some flaws that make it hard to fully enjoy.

One of the most praiseworthy aspects of the drama is the excellent performances of the two main male actors: Zhang Ruo Yun and Liu Duan Duan. Although Liu Duan Dua is listed support role, many viewers, including me, saw him as main second role. Their acting skills are impressive and they manage to keep me engaged throughout the season.

However, the slow pace of the drama and the lack of depth in some of the characters make it challenging to maintain the level of interest. I almost dropped around episode 10. It felt like there were too many scenes to introduce characters and explain their roles, but they lacked coherence and purpose. There were multiple visits, villains, and wuxia scenes, which made it feel redundant and caused me to lose interest after a while. Some of the supporting characters are stereotyped, such as the divine sword master who picks his nose at every turn.

In addition, the love-hate relationship between the male and female leads is somewhat predictable and lacks any real chemistry. If you are looking for a sweet romance, this drama is not for you. Although it is evident that the two leads are in love, they hardly express their feelings and only bicker around each other. This typical love-hate relationship is portrayed from the female's perspective, and the male lead is clear about his feelings but never expresses them. It felt very immature. The season ends with the two leads going their separate ways with only a promise to meet again in the future. There is no kiss or hug, leaving me feeling unsatisfied.

The age gap between the female lead, who was 18 or 19 at the time of production, and the male lead, who was 30, may have contributed to the lack of chemistry between them. However, it is also possible that their personalities, charisma, and talent did not mesh well together. I have yet to see an actress who can match Zhang Ruo Yun's acting skills and create a convincing on-screen chemistry with him. Even in the drama JOL, the female lead was only two years younger than him, but their chemistry still fell short. So, it raises the question: is it truly the age difference that is the issue, or is it a combination of other factors?

Despite its flaws, the drama has some entertaining moments. The slow pace of the wuxia genre was not noticeable to me but very criticized by viewers, and some parts were even hilarious, such as the divine sword master raising thousands of swords in the sky. However, some scenes were boring, such as the ending visits to the sects and the carriage talks. It was endless talks and introduction of characters. However, the scriptwriter and director did a great job of portraying the emotional relationship between the hero and his old companion, who died. Death that could have been avoided but felt right in the script. The scenes between them were emotional and tear-jerking. The father of the hero was also a well-developed character and reminded me of the emperor in “Joy of Life”, which added to the enjoyment of the show.

One of the highlights of the drama was the performance of the villain character portrayed by Liu Duan Duan. His character was complex, and he stole the show with Zhang Ruo Yun. He was a lovable villain who admired the hero but had no other choice but to try to kill him. His portrayal was so impressive that he became the second most memorable character of the show.

The season ends with a promise of revenge, leaving the viewers eagerly waiting for the continuation. However, it is unfortunate that season 2 is not yet in the process, the reality is that it may take 3-4 years for a drama or season to arrive. It is rumoured that the web novel has over 2000 chapters, it is then uncertain how many seasons the drama series will have when it will come to a conclusion and definitely when. This makes it challenging to see the big picture and enjoy the show to its fullest.

The problem lies in the casting and scriptwriting. It's not just a few characters in SSS but many that are also cast in JOL (including the white cat! lol), and it's the same scriptwriter. In my opinion, the success of JOL is well-deserved, as it's the most-watched drama for the last 4 years when it first aired. Therefore, all efforts and focus are on the most successful drama. Rumors suggest that season 3 will be produced in 2024. If the production team wants to maintain the same casting, which is not always available at the same time, then it does make sense. Moreover, time is of the essence. If it takes 4-5 years to produce and obtain the “ River Crab” (slang for Film censorship in China) authorization, then all the seasons must be planned and signed to keep the momentum going and prevent the actors and actresses from aging. SSS is an excellent show, and I hope the next seasons can be squeezed in between.

SSS is good with a but…

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Cute comedy

I liked the show! It was a quick, fun, and cute comedy with 42 episodes, each only 5 minutes long. What's great about this show is that it is 100% comedy, and the looks of the FL don't even matter. Cute fits best. I also appreciate that it is full of comedy and not mixed with any political plot, unlike "Different Princess," which was a complete mess. I just expected funny, clumsy, and stupid jokes, with a touch of romance, and this show delivered perfectly.

I enjoyed the way the story played out with the back-and-forth between the two periods. It was a great way to keep me engaged and interested in the plot. And what made it even better was that I got to see the same couple have a happy ending! It was such a satisfying conclusion to the story. Overall, I was impressed with how the author was able to weave together these different elements so seamlessly.

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Fun sweet funny drama

I found the drama quite enjoyable with many funny scenes, especially the jail part which was downright hilarious. However, I wasn't entirely convinced by the casting of the Emperor. The chemistry between the lead actors felt lacking, especially in the final scene which left me feeling disappointed despite the happy ending. It was too cold, and the actor seemed to struggle with portraying a character madly in love. Additionally, there were a few inconsistencies in the script, and some major explanations were missing, leaving me feeling puzzled.

Overall, the drama was fun to watch, but I strongly feel that without Lusi Zhao, the show would have been a big flop.

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