This is my favorite drama of 2015. I have not cried for a movie/drama to this extent for quite some time, but this show made me cry nonstop during the last 2 episodes. I love the actors and plot, though there were some moments towards episodes 40-50 when I felt some of the story was missing or skipped; maybe I can find an uncut version of this to watch again. The actors were so wonderful I felt their character's pain and cheered for almost everyone (even the baddies). There was not a moment when I did not sympathize with both main characters. The fantasy theme was well utilized, but CG was not great. I thought China would have caught up with better CG by now, but unfortunately if you are hoping to see a lot of cool effects, not going to happen here. These people could have also spared some budget for real flowers instead of the cheesy silk flowers that were obviously fake. I am picking at this only because the flower theme in the novel and drama is very stressed. I also did not like Tang Bao's scenes. Her personality in the novel is very helpful, intelligent and cute. This Tang Bao was mostly annoying and idiotic; ugh, that voice! The author and director did a great job with the story and character development. The costumes were beautiful. I also enjoyed the music and setting, which made the most dramatic scenes very emotional and well balanced. I wasn't a fan of Wallace Huo before this (I saw 3/4 of episode 1 of Perfect Couple, and he did not leave an impression for me to continue). Maybe it was the costume change or his serious demeanor that won me over immediately in this drama, but now I am a fan and hope he will make more wuxia dramas. He played the stern but loving teacher very well. He was believable and his affections for Hua Qian Gu were subdued but convincing. I know a lot of people made complaints about the lack of affection (very little kissing/hand holding scenes), but this was what sold me on their forbidden but unconditional love. I actually enjoyed this more than other dramas because the main characters were privately passionate, and I could feel the heartache of always wanting more from their ill-fated love. Zanilia Zhao was not my favorite in the beginning, but when her character was more assertive and less hopeless, she grew on me, and I cried mostly for her character's struggles. It's nice to have a strong female lead that fights for what she believes in even when the whole world and fate is against her. She was very relatable, and in the end I'm glad Zanilia landed his role. Overall this movie was exceptional thanks to the wonderful acting, strong storyline, and believable themes of good vs evil and loving yourself before you can love others/the entire world. I would recommend this to everyone. It's quite long, but worth it. I was addicted so I finished quickly. Immediately after its end I felt major withdrawls (that was how good it was). With the success of this drama I hope there will be a follow up or something similar.