Liu Shui Tiao Tiao (2024)

Smart characters scheming and fighting, while two different kinds of love blossom on the sidelines.

Subjective Gut Rating: 8.25

Surprisingly, “Love of Nirvana” is not as romance-focused as I thought. Don’t get me wrong, there’s a love triangle that lasts for a long time, and romance is definitely present. However, it does not feel like I am watching a romance drama for 40 episodes. Instead, this drama has a strong focus on politics, fight for power, maintain power, revenge and the reveal of truths.

I am having a hard time writing down a proper review, so I am going to dump my random thoughts here:

1. It’s lovely to see smart characters in a drama. Not only are the three leads intelligent but they try to outsmart each other every step of the time.
2. I love watching them try to scheme and one up each other. They never lost their intelligence throughout the drama.
3. One love interest tries to obsessively protect and keep FL safe by his side.
4. The other love interest believes in, supports and protects behind-the-scenes, and lets her be who she wants to be.
5. It’s also lovely to see true platonic friends. No spoiled princesses or annoying jealous suitors.
6. The pacing is decent. There are a couple episodes that I was losing attention (or probably because I was tired). But for the most part, there’s enough going on to keep me invested in 40 episodes.
7. The emperor and the ‘villain’ had few but powerful scenes. Props to veteran actors!
8. Acting is pretty good overall. Landy Li is such a talented young actress. Playing against Jeremy Tsui and Allen Ren, I think she wins!
9. Unfortunately, the voices are dubbed. I can’t hear Jeremy’s sexy deep voice, or Allen’s sexy raspy voice. But it seems like Landy Li dubbed the drama herself.
10. The drama does not seem to be a high budget production. For the most part, this is not a problem and didn’t quite affect my viewing pleasure, except for the war battles towards the end of the drama.
11. Pei Yan’s obsession with Jiang Ci lasted for quite some time. But when he’s out of it, after much pain and suffering, it was great watching the trio together.
12. I was worried about the transition from hate to love for Wei Zhao and Jiang Ci, given how much Wei Zhao tried to harm her. But I feel that the transition and romance develops naturally and realistically.
13. Both Wei Zhao and Pei Yan are standup individuals and are very similar. They have burdens and tremendous responsibilities on their shoulders. They respect each other as competitors and as friends. I actually wanted to see more of their friendship and brotherhood when they are on the same side.
14. I enjoy the understated and quiet romance between Jiang Ci and Wei Zhou. There are no sweet talking or fluffy cute scenes. But the time they spent together felt so intimate and romantic. I enjoy their playful banters and witty remarks and also quiet moments of caring and concerns.
15. The revelation of what actually happened 20 years ago is quite a surprise.
16. And the ending...... I wish it was different but I am not upset.



Completed: 10/19/2024 - Review #499

Citeste mai mult

REAL ENEMIES TO LOVERS

real enemies to lovers. People were complaining that they were not getting any good enemies to lovers drama and now their mad bffr.Do not let the ratings deter from the show a chance. ANYWAYS
The ml tries to kill the fl so many times throught the first episodes,I know if they continue on this part we might gets some good/real ROMANCE. minor spoilers ahead.

Political/Revenge-Driven Plot: The heart of the drama lies in its intricate power plays, revenge schemes, and dangerous politics. Every move is a calculation, and alliances can shift at a moment’s notice. The romance is a/will be slow burn, carefully woven through layers of betrayal, power struggles, and manipulation.
Love Triangle That Actually Works: You know it's rare to find a good love triangle where both leads are on equal footing, but this one nails it. Both male leads are charismatic, cunning, and each have their own complex motives. They see the FL not just as a love interest, but as a key player in their plans, and they use her as a pawn in their high-stakes game. But the chemistry between them? ?
Mature Script: The dialogue and storytelling are sharp, it's gripping.
Cat and Mouse Games: Expect a lot of who’s-playing-who moments. These characters are always two steps ahead, and the mental chess games between them will have you hooked, unsure who’s really in control.
Double Hotness: Let's talk about the two male leads—RJL, whose badass attitude and deep, sexy voice gives him that dark, irresistible edge. Then there’s JT, who’s a revelation, all intense stares and calculated moves, equally sexy and a match for RJL in every way.

This drama is a slow-burn, tension-filled ride with every twist and turn pulling you deeper into its ruthless world. Whether you're here for the romance, the mind games, or just the pure ? factor, it delivers.

so far so good.i hope this continue because its the only cdrama thats airing that im watching

Citeste mai mult

A gem I picked up on the journey

I originally wasn’t familiar with this drama, nor had it been on my watchlist for the longest time. One fine day, I accidentally clicked on the ad when I launched my iQIYI app, and now here I am, writing this review after spending the entire night sorting out my thoughts after finished watching. It was quite the rollercoaster ride with this one. It felt like so much was happening simultaneously, and simply judging this drama as good or bad doesn’t quite capture its essence.

Personally, I thoroughly enjoyed every second of the journey. Here’s why:
The characters. While a few lack depth, the main characters served their purpose beautifully until the end. Wei Zhao, the poor guy who lost his parents and ran away from home with his sister, fought relentlessly for his family and his tribe. I’m not trying to ignore the bad deeds he committed, but he never wavered from his goal and was always clear about his intentions. Then there’s the happy-go-lucky girl, Jiang Ci. She found herself on the wrong tree at the wrong time, but somehow encountered the right person. Some may argue that Jiang Ci was foolish for caring about Wei Zhao and her Master the way she did, but it aligned perfectly with her personality. She also balanced the resolute and stern Wei Zhao with her own playfulness. And there's also the lovesick puppy, Pei Yan. Bro experienced love for the first time and lost himself for a moment—which honestly frustrated me. I’m glad he finally came to his senses and realized that forcing a marriage was never a good idea to begin with.

However, when it comes to characters like the Emperor, the Master, and Madam Rong, the writing was largely subpar. These characters seem completely disconnected from reality. It feels like there isn’t enough rationale behind their despicable actions. While it's true that the Emperor didn’t physically murder his brother, he undeniably played a significant role in pushing him to his death. The Master, on the other hand, was a source of frustration for me about 80% of the time she appeared on screen. For someone who is "supposed" to be an assassin, it’s baffling how she’s managed to survive this long given her sheer stupidity. As for Madam Rong, her character arc felt mired in petty grievances from two decades ago that she simply can’t seem to move past.

Another reason I enjoyed watching this drama is the acting. The actors and actresses did an outstanding job. Even with zero physical contact (yes, no kissing scenes) between Wei Zhao and Jiang Ci throughout all 40 episodes, their relationship still feels incredibly romantic. You can argue with the wall on this one, but the way they look at each other, their shared hugs, and the mutual pining are off the charts. Truly, you don’t need toe-curling kissing scenes to define a romance, do you? ?

And, if we're discussing the ending, it would be a blatant lie to say I’m not the slightest bit sad or disappointed with how the story unfolded. However, upon reflection, Wei Zhao was doing what he believed was best for everyone involved. He single-handedly took the blame for the Emperor's death. If he had survived, there would still be people in the palace trying to pin the blame on him, which would only implicate his tribe further.

Well, I also couldn't stop myself from sobbing as I watched Wei Zhao prepare the 'gift' for Jiang Ci. Deep down, he knew he was embarking on a suicide mission, and there was no turning back for him. He was painfully aware of how slim his chances of surviving the poison were. And the way he decorated the house, incorporating the little details that Jiang Ci had shared during their time together, just made it all the more heartbreaking.

All in all, I’m really glad I stumbled upon this drama. While there were aspects I wasn't entirely satisfied with, it didn’t diminish my overall viewing experience. This drama has easily earned a spot on my favorites list.

And oh, extra credit goes to Wei Zhao's velvety robe when he entered the slave arena. That attire was pure elegance. He strutted in with such flair, fully confident that he would come out alive. ?

Citeste mai mult

A Riveting Drama with Stellar Performances

Story: This drama is a well-crafted narrative filled with intricate mind games between the female lead and the two male leaders, each manipulating and using one another from the very first episode. As the story unfolds, the plot thickens, and the characters' schemes - or at times, their support for one another becomes even more intriguing. The romantic dynamics are also interesting, with a clear contrast in how the two male leads interact with the female lead, adding depth to the story.

The supporting characters also added colors to the drama. This is one of the dramas where I don't really think some of the characters were redundant, as they all put in their own weight for this drama.

Acting: I was drawn to this drama because of Ren Jia Lun, who plays Wei Zhao. Having seen his previous works, including the Blue Whisper (Parts 1 and 2) and the Burning Flames, I knew he was an exceptional actor. This was my first time watching Landy Li (Jiang Ci) and Jeremy Tsui, and I found their performance impressive as well. Special recognition goes to Jeremy Tsui for his portrayal of Pei Yan.

OST: The soundtracks were fantastic. Part of the lineup include my favorite OST singer Liu Yuning. Additionally, Curly Gao were also part of the line up.

Citeste mai mult

Not the nirvana of love but unhappy love

I liked the series in general. I watched it with great curiosity. I felt love, affection, loyalty, friendship, camaraderie, revenge, ambition, and emotionality. Despite the many mistakes, especially logical mistakes, it was a watchable and beautiful series. Especially the fact that there were three strong actors in the leading roles and that the actors accompanying them were also good was one of the biggest factors in my watching. Especially the experienced Jeremy Tsui was by far the best in the series in my opinion. He is old now but his acting is watchable. I found Ren Jia Lun passive. Landy Li was good. They made us feel a love triangle. In addition, the activation and war scenes were very good. The actors were also successful. Landy Li was especially successful in the emotional scenes.
The sparks of love and affection in the supporting roles were also worth seeing. Especially the relationship between Gao Han and Cao Fei Ran was beautifully reflected. The actors were very successful in this regard. Cao Fei Ran was quite effective. I was convinced that he would portray these types of scenes, especially the bad, dominant types, very well. That's how I saw him. I liked it. I am bringing it to the attention of the producers. I believe that he will be very successful in this type of role. Similarly, the relationship between Yao Chi and Zhang Ya Qin was also beautifully portrayed. The actors were very good. I liked them too. I will not write what I did not like. Because I gave it a good grade. I do not want to fall short. For example, I would like it to have a happy ending. Three or four years later, they become children and return home when they are three or four years old, but the garden is the same garden, the same planting, the same scene, I ignore it. I recommend it to those who have not watched it.

Citeste mai mult

It's worth the watch!

This drama will take you through cycles of love, hate, anguish, sadness, and happiness when you're done with it. The story follows Wei Zhao (Allen Ren) as he tries to claim justice for his hometown, Yuelou. Along the way he meets Jiang Ci (Landi Li), a carefree girl who seems to always get entangled in his plans, and Pei Yan (Jeremy Tsui), a frenemy who rivals him. As schemes unfold and fate intertwines, Wei Zhao, Jiang Ci, and Pei Yan will discover friendship, love, and loss as they battle for righteousness.
The storyline was acceptable. However, I absolutely love the character build up, especially the two male leads. The characters were written very well with their own unique archs that makes me accept the actions they choose to do as the story progresses. In addition, they were both protrayed nicely by both actors. This is the first drama where I will not complain if the female lead ended up with whoever, because I like them both equally. In fact, they both used our poor female lead to an extent, hurt her to an extent, loved her deeply to an extent, and both did not end up her (but one did captured her heart). We also cannot forget our secondary characters, "villians" included. They are like icing on the cake that makes our main leads' story and character shine with sweetness.
Despite it's movie title, this drama's is not all about love (though I do enjoy the sweet interactions between Wei Zhao and Jiang Ci). You will get a touch of vengence, family fidelity, friendship, loyalty, and betrayal mashed up. Although we don't get a happy ending, we got justice at end. The drama leaves me with a sense of satisfaction that I came to accept after shedding a few tears. Will I rewatch it? Not likely. I'm not sure if I can go through that sad ending again.

Citeste mai mult

JiaLun As A Masked Man, NICE!! Handsome, & Gorgeous!! But Pissed Off, Because His Voice Is Not HIS!!

Happen To Come Accross The 1st Episode When I Turned On My T.V. And Checked If All The Episodes Were Available, Only 20 Were... I Was Excited To See JiaLun As A Masked Man... Very Handsome, And Mysterious, But When He Talked It Wasn't His Own Voice!!! Very Pissed, And Angry That It Isn't His Voice!!! I LOVE HIS VOICE!!! I HATE IT WHEN THEY DON'T USE THE REAL ACTORS VOICE!!! Anyways I Started Watching This On September 25, 2024 And Finnish The 1st Episode At 9:38 A.M. Probably Will Finnish All 20 Episode Today... ??? Yes, I Bing Watch!!!

So My Thing Only Went Up To Episode #10, Finnish All 10 Episode By 7:00 P.M. Now I Have To Wait Like Everyone Else For The Rest Of The Episode... ?☹?
So Far My ONLY BEEF IS JIALUN VOICE IS NOT HIS, BUT SOMETIMES IT IS... CONFUSING!!! Another Thing Is JiaLun's Character Being So Mean, And Cruel To The Female Leads Character.
In Episode 10, He Gets To Be A Little Softer, Because He Loses Alot Of People He Cares About. He Is Obviously Growing Feelings For Her Too...
I Have To Say So Far I Am Really Liking This Drama... I Like The Story Line, And Everything About This Drama. What Crazy, And Intresting At The Same Time 2 Different Men Work For The King, Both Plotting Against Each Other, But Helping Each Other At The Same Time...
At The Same Time This Poor Girl Kind Of Gets Dragged Into The 2 Male Leads Drama, And All She Was Trying To Do Was See A Certain Person, And Just Enjoy Some Wine... JiaLun's Character Already Tried KILLING HER 3 TIMES. JiaLun, And The Male Lead At 1st, And Probably Still Are Using Her To There Advantage.
ONE THING I TURELY LOVE IS THAT JIALUN'S CHARACTER WEARS A FACE MASK THAT COVERS HIS NOSE, AND MOUTH... I Ain't Going To Lie... It Makes Him Look So Handsome, Gorgeous And Mysterious All At The Same Time. (Ever Since I Saw Him In The Blue Whisper, 3rd Chinese Drama I Ever Watched. I Have Always Thought He Was So Handsome, And Gorgeous.)
Will Write More When Other Episodes Come Out. 7:37 P.M.

Citeste mai mult

I loved this drama(more of a tragedy?). Also, this may be one of Jeremy's best

A mountain girl gets caught up in two plotting Lord's schemes. Neither lead seems completely good for her lol.
So, the male lead wants revenge for his father who was unjustly murdered by a previous general. He taunts FL often because she interrupted his undercover activities. She tries to kill him 10 episodes in, which makes great bonding time. XD

I'm honestly more interested in the overall plot of this drama. Not too much the romance.

Now for the 2nd male lead - he wants to do what his father could not(become prime minister). His dad died too early. and the king has inferiority views towards his Pei clan. However the 2nd male lead's mother had a thing with the king in the past, so she has some leverage over the king's emotions.


Side notes- I thought jeremy was retiring but i still love him in this one! To be honest, only brother Cui the physician is truly nice to her! If you're looking for healthy romance it won't be here lol.

Citeste mai mult

The gaslighting & mental gymnastics ?

The gaslighting by the writers of this drama is of epic proportions lemme tell you, having dialogues like, we are now even cos you saved me 3 times to justify them being a couple down the road is very sick.
But they achieved their goal because the mental gymnastics that a lot of abuse apologist in the comment section are using to defend their support of a relationship that was preceded with abuse, torture and attempted murder is wild to say the least. You all can dress/excuse it however you like, is not going to change the fact that you support a woman falling in love with someone who almost killed her several times and abused/tortured her. Not like the stabbing and poisoning was not bad because they were but the ants and the water boarding, telling me that any same person will fall in love with someone who water boarded them and let ants crawl over them is pure madness and most of you really need to go reflect on the kind of person you truly are.
The level of shallow minded and below basic human decency and honestly intelligence with comments like, OMG they are so cute, OMG it’s so toxic but idc cos they are so cute, being more annoyed and disappointed that they didn’t get a kiss scene than disgusted that there was a relationship at all is all too telling of who you really are, FYI thinking watching and enjoying cute moments and kiss scenes trumps everything tells me you are not on any level that is worth respecting as a human being.
Aside from the COMPLETELY AND ABSOLUTELY UNACCEPTABLE relationship between the ML and the FL the drama is ok but I simple cannot get past that so for me this drama would be rated 3/10.

Citeste mai mult

If I wanted to be devastated, I'd watch the news.

==Breakdown==
Background plot / palace intrigue - 60%
Romance - 30%
Random comedy - 10%

Background plot - Fine
Romantic chemistry - Good
Misc comedy - Fine
Production value and direction - Good

Keeping it short, but the ending ruined the whole show. I was warned not to watch Ren Jia Lun's dramas, but this one looked interesting. And, yeah, I won't be watching any more of his shows.
He's EXCELLENT by the way. I mean, he is an incredible actor and so, so good in his role. Mesmerizing. But I don't have the emotional bandwidth to be devastated by something that's supposed to be escapist and entertaining. If I wanted to be devastated, I'd watch the news.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Citeste mai mult

Nirvana not to be found in this lifetime

Enemies to friends to lovers - a simple way to think of this story, but there is much more to enjoy about this drama than the two leads falling for each other. In fact, there are truly three leads in this story - and the interconnectedness of their lives and fates really drives this story forward as they learn to love and fight for what is right in a world of deceit in the quest for power.

The story sags a bit towards the end - I feel the whole war with the state of Wei was unnecessary. There is no build up with the king/emperor of Wei, and I would have rather the story focused on the complicated emperor of Liang instead. And while I would have liked for a better end for Wei Zhao, there was probably no feasible way for him to be alive after what he does to the emperor.

Be warned: the first 10 or so episodes have some hard-to-watch moments as the male and female leads go at each other while being enemies - some of it is downright torture. It's a testament to the pacing and development of their relationship and the actors' performances to make their romance eventually believable with some palpable chemistry.

Citeste mai mult