Respect for different talents leads to successful teams and successful relationships . . .

The strength of the plot and acting here really sets this one apart. Unlike a lot of dramas where things start falling apart at the 2/3s mark, this is consistent and strong all the way through - with the little mysteries building to a bigger and bigger problem.

To be clear this isn't a 'whodunit?' but what do you do about suspected corruption that is buried deep and in positions of power - perhaps even within your own family?

The acting is realistic, naturalistic and touching with very little overacting. Friendships are well sketched out, relationships quietly build over time.

The music is serviceable. Certain moments will stick with me, but I'm not sure if I will actually pick up and rewatch.


Complex Themes -7
(The themes here is about corruption, how seductive it can be, how no one can be 100% immune...and the real barriers to cleaning it up. There's also a smaller theme about respecting others strengths and weakness, and that brilliance in one area doesn't exempt you from pulling your weight in others. In the end, it's just presented as is - there is no complex or new takes or understandings you take away from the show.)
Character Growth -6
(The character growth is 80-90% on Xu Xus part - growing from a individualistic, slightly arrogant talent into a team player who values the different strengths each person brings, Ji Bai is presented perfect as is)
Nuanced Women -9
(Strong points for having multiple interesting many-shaded female characters. From the 'villians' to the heroes, there are many different women with their own motives and reasonings. Also pluses for showing positive and strong female friendship.)
Cinematography/Production Values - 9
(It's mainly shot in the real world, set use is minimal and well-done. Action scenes are well choreographed and they have the budget to shoot the Burma scenes properly.)