Cuo Liao (2023)

Overbearing CEO Trope With a Twist

OK, I may be biased here with my rating since I love the chemistry between Bailu and Dylan, and their visuals. I will gladly watch them stare at each other with background music playing any time...lol. Also, the journey to love for Shu Yue and Yu Yao added a lot of good flavor to the show.

Eps 31 - 36 plus the bonus clip of 36.5 were satisfying and romantic. There were lots of kisses and skinship; the leads did not disappoint in that aspect. That made the 4-5 previous episodes of prolonged misunderstandings/miscommunication forgettable for me. The starting episodes until ep 26 were also very entertaining.

I watched with the full expectation and anticipation that it would be about the "domineering CEO trope," and Dylan did so well with that character. Love how overbearing and arrogant Shi Yan was even when he showed love and affection to the FL.

Luckily, the show did not make the FL character naive, overly enthusiastic, bubbly, and kind of dumb like the usual ones in such CEO shows. I did have a love-hate feeling for Bailu's FL character, though. Shu Yi was smart, sharp, and sassy in her professional life but totally clueless about her personal life. It didn't help that she kept listening to her friend, Shan Shan, who was the worst relationship guru ever! Still, most of the FL's actions and thought processes were relatable and quite realistic. Many of us often back away and assume the worst immediately, but unfortunately, in her case, the show dragged on too long for most viewers. Also, the show did not make the FL grovel enough, the ML should have gotten many more apologies and more appreciation from the FL.

The second couple's path to their relationship was so fun to watch, and honestly, the ML's niece, Shi Yue, was the MVP. She was the youngest, but her approach and pursuit of her man were well done, and she was often the catalyst that helped Shi Yan and Shu Yi move forward with their relationship. Shen Yu Jie shone as Shi Yue, and she was gorgeous throughout the show. Miles Wei was awesome as the dorky professor who ultimately could not resist the lovely Shi Yue.

We could have done away with the third couple - their push-pull dynamic became annoying to watch, and it was the same friend of the FL that was just so wishy-washy. I think that the female character was not written well. There's only so much Jiang Pei Yao could do, and she looked beautiful playing this disastrous character, which I did not like much throughout the show.

Love the outfits in this show - especially the leads and Shu Yue. Very branded, though, so I can only dream - haha!

Overall, I did enjoy this drama, and I had fun reading and commenting along with others. There was a lot of venting and frustration, but somehow, many of us continued on. I was addicted because of the cast and the fact that I do actually like the domineering CEO trope when it is done with a twist.

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Character-driven drama with campy humor and titillating romance

Plot Summary:
Zheng Shu Yi (Bai Lu) is a pretty, brilliant and hard-working 25-year-old reporter who hopes to write the front-page article of the Financial Vision magazine for at least the 9th time. And her ticket to scoring the latest cover article is to land an interview with the CEO of a venture capital company, 27-year-old Shi Yan (Dylan Wang), who, as it happens, has taken an interest in her, insisting the magazine send her to interview him.

Before that happens, her boyfriend dumps her for a girl surnamed Qin whose uncle owns impressive cars with impressive plate numbers. Having found out that Shi Yan has a niece with a surname of Qin and that he owns a roll royce with an an imposing plate number, Shu Yi concludes that her ex-boyfriend's new girlfriend is the niece of Shi Yan.

Armed with a desire to use her rejection as fuel to succeed in her career as well as with her dream of upgrading the online version of Financial Vision magazine, Shu Yi pursues Shi Yan to get him to agree to a series of interviews for the online magazine. That is, as she makes herself believe. But might she be harboring some other reason for pursuing the handsome aloof bachelor?

For some mysterious reason of his own that will be revealed later, the cold CEO, who would have likely spurned such advances from any other girl, humored Shu Yi. Frequently thrown in each other's company due to the interviews as well as their jobs, they develop a deeper bond that propels them into a rocky journey of growth necessary to bring about a lasting and happy relationship where honesty and effective communication prevail.

Review:
This drama is character-driven thus requires a good understanding of the characters to be thoroughly appreciated. Skipping scenes would jar one's ability to be drawn into the characters and understanding them. In addition, skipping scenes could make one miss the campy spoofing feel throughout the drama, such as Shu Yi's pursuit of Shi Yan, the blind-leading-the-blind attempts of Shu Yi's cocksure but clueless best friend to give her advice, Shi Yan's seeming ability to hear Shu Yi's thoughts which could be a device to show they are on the same wavelengths, the phone conversations that everyone in the room can hear, the phone interruptions, the over-the-top riding clothes and many more. Those who recognize the campy humor in these situations would laugh. Those who don't would grumble.

Therefore, if you skip scenes or don't pay attention to the story, don't blame the writer or director if you can't find, much less understand, the plot.

This drama does not describe characters by having somebody directly point out that, say, Shu Yi is brilliant or that Shi Yan is a visionary. The drama SHOWS the audience, another reason skipping scenes is a no-no.

Shu Yi is not the conventional sensible-can-do-no-wrong cdrama female lead. She is smart, kind, friendly, playful, a good sweet daughter, hard-working, cannot be bribed and stays cool when a conniving work rival plays dirty tricks against her. But having been pampered by her parents, she is spoiled, self-centered and not above using people to attain her goals. Most of all, the drama shows her tendency to lie, causing her to do things contrary to what she feels and to make excuses to avoid facing up to the consequences of inappropriate actions.

It is intentional that Shu Yi sometimes throws ethics to the wind. Those who think smart people never do stupid things have unrealistic expectations of people. A lot of intelligent people make unwise decisions. Shu Yi's ethical lapses are part and parcel of the story which is unique to one particular reporter who does some things she should not do. So, complaints about degrading her profession are terribly misplaced. It is highly improbable that the drama would make viewers think reporters do this sort of thing all the time. In fact, that's why this story is told - it deals with a unique character.

I understand why Bai Lu bravely took on this role. Shu Yi would have been a challenge to portray because not doing her right could have made her obnoxious. I was amused at her flaws, scrapes and outrageousness, indicating Bai Lu portrayed her well.

Shi Yan is another complex character. The viewers' first impression of him is his stoic demeanor which is likely the amalgamation of his reserved and taciturn nature plus his upbringing and grooming to take over a company that would have made him resolute about appearing proper and older than his age at all times. The business scenes show how intelligent, competent and forward-thinking he is by letting us see how he handles meetings with business associates and how he chooses business partners. For example. he concurs with a startup's philosophy to put quality of technology ahead of production. These scenes also show the challenges he faces from senior executives who undermine his capability to lead the company due to his youth and inexperience. To delineate his sincerity in helping startups, the drama shows us that through thick and thin, he stands by a struggling chip producer he has been helping to establish. He gets personally involved in the chip industry and time and again defends his company's stand to finance the startup.

The business scenes also show how compatible the leads are in terms of interests and values. They are both hard-working. Shi Yan's passion to give back to society by helping startups is matched by Shu Yi's passion to make a contribution to society by creating an online version of her company's magazine that would allow more people access to information about finance. They both agree in doing the right things such as when Shi Yan, with Shu Yi's support, refuses to work with a corrupt battery manufacturer.

As he gets to know Shu Yi better, Shi Yan unlocks other parts of his personality - his thoughtfulness and dependability, his gentle and caring nature, his jealousy and his vulnerability that he only shows in her presence. Reserved by nature, Shi Yan's love is shown through his actions - making sure Shu Yi has eaten or has a ride home, even cooking for her. He is a natural nurturer, the best person who can help a spoilt girl in her journey to maturity.

This drama also shows how lack of communication can exacerbate couple issues. This is another hurdle the leads must face and overcome. Those who are intently watching would actually welcome a rift between the leads to knock some sense into Shu Yi. She has a lot of growing up to do and Shi Yan is prepared to take that journey with her as long as she wants to. All he wants is to love her, if she wants that love. What hurts him, more than the thought that she used him, is the thought that she loves another man. He is heartbroken as he muses, "what you wanted was never me". Though it devastates him, he loves her too much to force her to be with him while she is unsure of her feelings. So he lets her go and gives her space and time to sort her feelings out.

One of the things I admire about this drama is how subtle it showed Shu Yi's growth. She was self-centered before she met Shi Yan. She treated her ex-boyfriend like a driver, choosing to do an interview rather than celebrate his birthday with him. When he broke up with her, it was her pride more than her heart that was hurt. Shi Yan's unselfishness must have rubbed off on her. When she received her bonus, the first thing she thought of was to buy her parents gifts. When Shi Yan blocked her, she did not try to make excuses for what she did as what a spoiled child would have done. She felt guilty and remorseful thus felt resigned to losing him. She remembers Shi Yan's loving care and was ready to talk to him in person. When she saw him with another girl, she most probably took that as punishment for what she did and accepted the heartbreak. When news of Shi Yan's shareholders broke out, she first thought of Shi Yan's feelings instead of the effect the news would have on her online magazine. When she finally broke down, she did not care that her fierce work rival was there to witness her anguish. She did not whine or complain about her heartache but got sick due most probably to intense mental and psychological pain.

But the starkest manifestation of Shu Yi's growth was that, when her relationship with Shi Yan stabilized, she stopped lying.

Finally, to complete this multi-dimensional characterization of Shu Yi and Shi Yan, one needs a good idea of the world they're living in. Their friends, families, work, hobbies and other activities provide that additional dimension to their world.

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WHAT A WASTED POTENTIAL...

Zero communication, dumbest FL, overconfident but foolish BFF, the most cliche-lazily written plot and lots of investment business talks we don't care about — is what we get here for more than "20" episodes.

I mean seriously, what kind of split personality did the FL have here?? She is so confident and mature about her work but where is her maturity in her relationship? Why can't she make her own decisions and follows her stupid BFF blindly instead? (Bff - who is apparently herself a lost case)... FL didn't even hesitate to say those flirty lines in starting but then she's standing like a statue when she needs to apologize!?

nevertheless, the beginning when things yet made sense and there were no unnecessary love rivals and misunderstandings and the ending which was quite a hot mess. damn their chemistry was lit... both parts saved the overall rating but I still won't recommend this as the middle is both messy and frustrating. You might tolerate this happily if you're a big fan of the actors or you were in the mood for a dramatic (brainless) melodrama.

What makes me so upset is that I'm a big fan. both Bai Lu and Dylan Wang are my treasured favorite actors (even my pfp has always been bai lu). And all the anticipation and hype we gave to this drama. Like its such a waste of their talents and our time to watch two kids... The actors did well but the storyline was just too draggy.

For those (like me) who were excited to see Bai Lu and Dylan Wang together, go watch FMVs of this (save some time) or their off screen interaction of variety shows because they're far better or just watch this drama and skip until both your fingers and brain is tired af.

Kudos to the build up in the beginning tho I have to admit I was deeply invested in the so-called "plot" and I cared for these silly childish characters. To the point that I often screamed "say something bitch" xDD. Last 6 episodes were what people expected from this drama but what we got is a boring business drama with stupid leads. And I'm not going to forgive the production for all the frustration they gave me before those last episodes.

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An unusual and controversial female lead

I think the highlight of the drama is Zheng Shuyi’s contradictory character- she is someone who is smart and accomplished at work but is very bad at personal relationships. Her job is being a reporter and she crafts these excellent interviews and articles but when it comes to articulating what is important in her relationship or how to cherish it she is absolutely horrible. She has a low EQ AND THE person dating is reserved and non communicative but has a very high EQ and is very caring.
It’s amazing how she has this inner narrative through out the show but then does exactly the opposite in reality . This creates a weird dynamic between the lead character and makes the show a fascinating watch. I really loved how well Bai Lu played this character- it was very interesting and frustrating to watch . Dylan Wang played his role very well and their chemistry was beautiful - very intuitive I will definitely rewatch this one again.

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It was worth to watch.

I think this drama is worth to watch. I instantly got super into this drama since the trailer came out. Definitely a hands up especially to the characters. I just hope that the release of episodes are early and consecutive...
Bai Lu suits the female lead really well. Her voice is natural as well as Dylan's. Her natural beauty and elegance are on point based on the description from the novel. I understand that since the story is also modern, the flow is kinda slow and careful.
I think this drama is worth to watch. I instantly got super into this drama since the trailer came out. Definitely a hands up especially to the characters. I just hope that the release of episodes are early and consecutive...
Bai Lu suits the female lead really well. Her voice is natural as well as Dylan's. Her natural beauty and elegance are on point based on the description from the novel. I understand that since the story is also modern, the flow is kinda slow and careful.

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Don't believe hate reviews. This is a delightful rom-com

I see haters are already at work trying to smear this drama. Not just here, I'm seeing hate videos on Youtube too. Unfortunately, this is becoming more and more rampant in the world of Chinese dramas where producers are blackmailed into paying up, otherwise their dramas would be defamed on social media. Apparently, the producer of this drama did not give in to blackmail, thus flaws were invented or flaws that are common in cdramas and are largely ignored were exaggerated with this drama. The attacks got propagated to other sites by so-called water armies and picked up and further spread by anti-fans of the stars or their pairing, Innocent viewers got swept up in the frenzy and got swayed by the smear campaign.

But please don't let haters keep you from enjoying this delightful rom-com.

Only For Love stars Bai Lu as Zheng Shuyi, a beautiful, cute, smart, bubbly but rather quirky reporter of a finance magazine. Dylan Wang co-stars as Shi Yan, a hotshot mysterious young CEO who requests to be interviewed by Shuyi to publicize the vision of his venture capital company to help startups get off the ground. Shuyi has just caught her boyfriend cheating on her with a girl she mistook for Shi Yan's niece. Her boyfriend breaks up with her for the girl who promised to help him with his career. With her pride shaken, Shuyi decides to flirt with Shi Yan, seemingly to get back at her ex-boyfriend and to allow her to conduct a series of interviews with the much sought after bachelor CEO. Their constant meetings lead to romance. But what would Shi Yan feel when he knows the truth about Shuyi's reasons for pursuing him?

Shuyi is not the usual type of female lead in Chinese dramas. She is brilliant when it comes to work. But outside of it, she is somewhat clueless. Self-centered and shameless too. Her clumsy pursuit of Shi Yan is hilarious, showing how out of character she is at playing a seductress. But is it all play-acting? Might this seductress have fallen in love with her prey?

Shi Yan is being hailed on social media as the Chinese Mr. Darcy with his reserved and stoic demeanor as well as the dashing figure he cuts especially in a riding outfit. But he's also got a charm all his own. When he smirks at Shu Yi's clumsy attempts at seduction or when he looks at her with all the affection and sexual tension he oftentimes has a hard time keeping under wraps, your heart wouldn't be able to help dancing with excitement.

There might be some cultural challenges that could impact a non-Chinese viewer's understanding of the drama. For example, the joke about the cake in Shi Yan's uncle's dinner feast started with Shuyi mischievously texting "making love' to her ex-boyfriend's query about what she was doing. But when she noticed Shi Yan watching her composing the text, she changed her text to "making cake". The misunderstanding arose due to some texts not being subtitled. In addition, it seems "eat cake" has some sexual connotation in Chinese culture. So if you don't understand something in the story, try to join social media discussions and ask away.

All in all, this drama is pleasing to the eye and is quite entertaining. It starts off lighthearted but the characters turn out to be more than typical rom-com characters. These are multi-dimensional characters who are not all good but also not all bad. In short, they are human. Dissecting the characters and what makes them tick is fundamental to enjoying this delightful drama.

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Slow delicious burning love drama

"Only for Love" is a captivating Chinese drama that held my attention effortlessly. The actors were outstanding. There were some tropes/ cliches such as three couples with the typical relationships viz. one sprightly independent innocent woman, another very young pretty young girl just on the cusp of womanhood and another player / seasoned woman and their respective others who match them perfectly. Yet, originality is not necessary when a tale oft told is told with flow, grace and beauty.

The main leads have this wonderful chemistry that is palpable, adding a layer of believability to the unfolding love story. They manage to hold the tension all through till the end. The push and pull between them, the situational humour and witty dialogues, (though I suspect I only caught some of the nuance in the translations) made for delightful viewing. More importantly I loved the gender dynamics between the leads. At no point was either subservient to the other, there was respect and love and friendship among them as they progressed in their relationship over time. And each would always support the other when needed. Goals!

The other two couples have less screen time but still manage to hold my attention. There was beautiful progression in the relationships. The character development in the drama is commendable, as each protagonist is carefully crafted with depth and complexity. The actors deliver stellar performances, capturing the essence of their roles with authenticity.

Even the backdrop of hi tech industry, the lead's focus on technology than production in his long term strategy and forward thinking were subtle ways to explain his superiority over fellow beings. The narrative unfolds with a delicate balance of romance, humour and cultural nuances, creating a compelling viewing experience.

The storyline, while centered around love, delves into societal and familial dynamics, offering viewers a glimpse into the complexities of modern relationships in a Chinese context. The pacing of the drama is well-executed, keeping the audience engaged throughout the episodes.

Visually, "Only for Love" is a feast for the eyes. The cinematography beautifully captures the vibrant cityscapes, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the show. The costume and set design are meticulous, transporting viewers into the world of the characters. The fashion and style of all the characters are art ! Every costume is beautiful and fits the personality.

There is heat in their kisses, their glances, body language and the love making scenes are tasteful and sweet. There is tenderness and a sweet mellowness in the build up of each relationship - and none of the scenes are ever offensive. The couples are well matched.

Some viewers may find certain plot twists predictable, and at times, the pacing may seem a bit slow. However, for me, these were not flaws - as I do not expect original storylines for every book or drama or movie.

It is good story telling that I am interested in and that was delivered in spades. And for me the pacing was just right. At 36.5 episodes (don't miss the bonus episode with their wedding), with the medium pace, and well drawn out characters, a slow burn love affair, the drama was a well designed feast for the senses. The music was good and has actually grown on me over time... that probably happens if you watch a drama a thousand times on repeat.. lol.

I noticed a few themes in people who disliked this drama ... they did not enjoy the business talk and they found the FL unbelievable. I found the strategy being the business aspect of this drama fascinating and interesting. Shi Yan came across as strong, courageous, visionary and selfless. And the FL Shu Yi made perfect sense to me. She is someone who is incredibly bright at work but has zero interpersonal skills or ability to understand men. I have seen a few people like that so to me she was believable and rather endearing. I can see why some people would be annoyed though - this kind of character is rare in real life so many might have not come across such people.

Overall, it is a must-watch for those who appreciate a thoughtful and visually appealing portrayal of love in a contemporary Chinese setting. Most importantly if you do decide to watch, I recommend you do not multi task. The pace is just right and each scene brings something important to your overall enjoyment so sit back and relax and enjoy every moment of this perfect romance.

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Can't get over it!

Do you know why i gave this a full star? I'm a cdrama fan since 2021, and mangoTV dramas are always the best, that why sometimes, u can't find their episodes haha, and this one is the best, it's from novel, and even though i didn't read the novel i know that all the scenes in here did not change. I know very well the chinese attitude in writing a novel, that's why the series is soooo novel-like!! Love it, and also the casts are chef's kiss i loveee them! Their filming camera!!! It's soooo cool! Both leads are so perfect, they can show me what is in the novel. This series is my taste that's why i like it, also, this wang hedi is so handsome. I can't!

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In Amazement!!

I thought this drama was perfect! I am in amazement at how many reviews have missed the whole story line and decided to focus mainly on the acting skills of the ML and FL. Living in North America, it is fascinating for me to learn about other country technologies and their perspectives as they apply to the world market. I certainly won't take anything away from Dylan Wang and Bai Lu as they both are exceptional actors. It is refreshing to see Dylan Wang accomplish a more serious modern day role and how he brings a mature level to his acting. I have seen Bai Lu in many dramas and her acting gives a "real" feel to her roles. I would definitely rewatch this drama again.

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Why is the Chinese drama Only For Love the most sensual romance journey of the year?

I don’t know what everyone else is watching, but it is not Only for Love, considering their scoring. Dylan Wang and Bai Lu are giving masterpiece performances in this intelligently written cat and mouse game of love.

He works 24/7 growing his business, and has become quite successful, as he distances himself from the old money of his father. She is a financial and business reporter, only after the true story of his financial wisdom. The way she hooks him is a masterclass of what women do best.

Out of nowhere during her interview with him for her magazine, she begins to flirt with him. He is totally caught off guard, but recovers very quickly. The last thing he needs is to be diverted mentally from his business, away from his quest to make money. He is super intelligent, with great business acumen. He sees it coming and he knows how to avoid this flirtatious trap. What is working in her favor is that she is really knocked off her feet by him, but in the front of her mind, he is just a romance challenge to conquer. She is equally as intelligent, graduating from University with a double degree. It is just a game, she tells herself.

Only for Love is so sensual. The viewer anticipates each move of the other in this game of avoidance and entrapment, and the teasing games between the two is what draws you right in like foreplay.

Only For Love needs set-up time to allow this drama to smolder. Please don’t be impatient with this cat and mouse game.

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