The "Second Lead" Won

So this is my first time writing a review just because it is plain painful how this drama is not getting the attention that it so deserves.

After watching Put Your Head on My Shoulder, I thought it will take me a long time to move on. But upon watching this, poof, I forgot about PYHOMS and was immediately hooked up with this series. Until now, I haven't move on from this yet. Have you ever watched a 60 plus episode drama which you think should have ended at 10 plus episode? Okay, so yes. Now, have you ever watched a 30 plus episode drama which you think should have reached 60 episodes? This drama, at least for me, belongs to the latter.

So what made this series stand out from the rest of the C-dramas I watched?

Story: The story is a typical C-drama school romance played for so many times already. Being typical, however, is not necessarily bad when it is done so well. This, I believe, is an example of it. The characters were believable and one can relate with them (although they are still exaggerated at an extent because well, of course, this is still a drama). Nobody was portrayed to be perfect. And unlike other C-dramas which tend to portray the female lead as literally dumb and bullied, this drama gave leadership ability to the heroine and made her likable to her classmates. The character development was also good. Additionally, the parts touching family and friendship were heart warming.

Cast and their Characters: Most of the actors and actresses are apparently newcomers but guess what, they certainly did not show it. They have the emotions, they have the timing and although there are still some toe-curling scenes, they are still manageable. Each of them have given justice to their roles, delivering it so well. Their chemistry is also great especially the male lead and the female lead (their chemistry is purely insane). As each episode go by, I can't helped but be drawn and attached with everyone of them, especially to the character of He Xin Liang. Casting Ding Yu Xi for the role is definitely a winner as I cannot imagine someone doing it better than him. He Xin Liang undeniably raised the standards for internet boyfriends. He deviates from the stiff, cold, snobbish male leads who, for some reason, always gets the girl. I guarantee you that in here, you will not be infected by Second Lead Syndrome (except if you prefer the typical male lead). As for Ji Xiao, although you may not jump in his ship, you will definitely still love him. I think this is where the beauty of this drama lies--you do not have someone to entirely hate on. There may be times you get annoyed with a character but it doesn't last.

Music: Opening OST was good and memorable. Other background music was suitable where it was played. The song sang by Ding Yu Xi is also good.

Rewatch Value: I have rewatched this drama and still do, especially on times when I just need a light and fuzzy drama.

Overall, I think this drama captured the essence of youth, of young love, of first love, of family, of our dreams and ambitions and of friendships the way we see it when we are still 16 or 17 years old. It takes you back to the days when you were still in high school, reminding you of your silliness and immaturity. It brings back the fuzzy feeling of having your crushes and your so called love. Most importantly, it shows how some things do not turn out the way we wanted to and how, at some point of our lives, there are greater things more important than being in a relationship with the person we love. It also portrays how love, although true, can also be shown by letting go.

This series is highly recommended for everyone who loves light dramas and who are tired rooting for the second lead to no avail. Many have dropped this from the first episode because of the female lead's hair but please, please, please, try to overlook her rather unflattering hair and you will see (maybe) that this show is a gem.

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