Reviews

Quando l'hype rovina tutto

C'è questa foto che gira sui social in cui viene rappresentato un cavallo diviso in tre parti disegnate in maniera diversa: nella prima il tratto è bello, morbido ma preciso, tipico di qualcuno che sa disegnare davvero bene; nel mezzo abbiamo un garrese un po' sbilenco ma non troppo brutto; alla fine una testa brutta come il peccato palesemente disegnata da qualcuno che non sa farlo oppure da un bambino delle elementari. Ecco, questa immagine viene associata ai diversi episodi di questo drama dall'inizio spettacolare fino alla fine misera.
Io credo pienamente in questa immagine. E' tutto esattamente così. L'inizio parte a stecca, con un buon ritmo, un'intrigante storia, dei bei colpi di scena. Poi inizia a scemare e il thriller perisce lasciando una storia d'amore che non mi stava regalando nulla. Il finale, my gosh, che schif*. E no, non nasconderò il fatto che questo drama non mi ha colpita perchè io non mento mai. Sinceramente? Il fattore thriller me lo ha fatto cominciare, ma così no non funziona. Poi i motivi che spingerebbero lui a fare quello che fa verso di lei sono palesemente campati in aria, non hanno una logica o forse potrebbero avercela se me l'avessero messa in maniera diversa, ma così di botto non funziona. Il finale? AHAHAHAHAHAH ma che m*rda.
Non mi sarebbe piaciuto ugualmente ma sicuramente tutto l'hype che c'è stato attorno ha fatto modo e maniera che io rimanessi ancora più delusa dal tutto. Forse non è totalmente brutto, perchè mi dispiace ma di sicuro non lo riguarderò mai più e se mi chiedessero una lista kdrama da vedere non lo consiglierei nemmeno.

P.s. Io so che FL è bravina perchè mi è piaciuta molto in un altro drama, ma qui ha sempre la stessa identica espressione. Why?

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Mystery, Horor with a twist of Emotional Roller Coaster Ride

I started this drama without watching the trailer or summary at all. I just knew it's a mystery drama and the list of its actress and actor convinced me to start. As someone who avoids horror movie the most, I was on episode 2 before I paused for awhile. I had to admit the eerie vibe is both captivating and terrifying at the same time LOL but due to my friend's review that I HAVE TO KEEP GOING, so I embraced myself to episode 3 and I was hooked started from this point. The story started to unfold and many WHYs and confusion from the first two episodes slowly find its way to its answer. My fear subdued and it's replaced with more curiosity.

I really love how they wrap the story about life and death in such an interesting metaphor. As the episodes went by, I realized that it is wayyy more of an emotional story rather than horror. For some it might be a fun story but I personally find this is a rather painful journey of the characters which we all as human can relate. How each of them face different path, choose different decision, and had different ending although they had the same complication at first. To add into that, the trigger is not something we choose but sometimes life happened to put us in a situation we never wanted.

If you are someone who is into spiritual and after life world, then this drama will be very much your cup of tea!!

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Lovely, cute and touching Romance, but with an unnecessary gangster plot

I was curious about this highly rated Taiwanese BL (MDL rating 8.7) and wanted to check it out. There have been dramas about those who are hearing-impaired, so the challenges that Jiang Shao Peng faces are not uncommon. But the pairing of two different professions of the leads is fresh and new, and quite interesting.

The best part about “See Your Love” is the romance. The chemistry of the leads is great and their romantic story is nicely written and developed. I enjoy their honest and lovely communication of not just feelings but of their past and present challenges. They understand and support each other, and there are plenty of kisses for us romance lovers. Both male leads are likable and complement each other well. It’s not a surprise that the more outgoing Sean professes his love first. But it is a pleasant surprise to see the more shy Shao Peng to be quite assertive in his PDA. I am not sure how accurate the sign language is, but both Sean and Shao Peng convince me that they know what they are doing. I love their joint signing in the closet. It was really romantic and shows that they are perfect for each other.

The secondary romance is cute as well, but I think it could have used a little more screen time and more development. The other two ladies are there to advance the plot, but really don’t make a strong impact on the main story.

3 of the 4 leads are newcomers and their acting performance is pretty good. The emotional scenes, especially the hospital scene by Shao Peng and Sean , moved me to tears. The lovey-dovey scenes bring a smile to my face and the sexy scenes are shot well. I also love Shao Peng’s parents. They are so loving, supportive and hilarious. Unfortunately, I am not sure who did the hair and makeup for Nat Chen, who played Yang Zi Cheng. He has the worst makeup (those eyebrows!!) and looks like an old man. He was so cool and handsome in “Kiseki: Dear to Me”.

Despite really LOVING the main romance, I cannot objectively give this drama a rating higher than 8.5. The over-the-top gangster plot is so unnecessary. A cousin acts like a gangster to ‘fight’ for something he never really needs to fight. The animosity is unwarranted when they could have been brothers supporting each other. The appearance of Sean’s dad is anti-climatic. Does he really need to show up for those few minutes and then disappear? Why even waste those few minutes when there’s no follow-up or resolution.

I recommend this Taiwanese BL especially because the romance is so lovely. I laughed, smiled and cried tears of joy and sadness. For a drama led by new actors, this is a great watch.


p.s. Don't forget to stay for the ending scenes after the credit in the last episode.


Completed: 1/20/2025 - Review #536

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1000/10: Dylan Wang's Xu Qi An is Pure Perfection.

My far most favourite of 2025!
(I will die for a Season 2 of this drama T_T )

Heart-Touching in its Authenticity:

To be honest, here are no cardboard heroes or villains. The characters are flawed, complex, and utterly believable. We see their internal struggles, their agonizing choices, and the heavy weight of responsibility they shoulder. The relationships, whether romantic, familial, or platonic, are rendered with such exquisite sensitivity that you feel every pang of heartbreak, every surge of joy, every moment of shared vulnerability. The quiet moments, the unspoken glances, often speak louder than any grand declaration, drawing you into their world with an almost painful intimacy. You'll find yourself deeply invested in their fates, weeping with their sorrows and cheering their victories. I personally loved the scene when Xu Qi An' was fuming with revenge when the Commissioner of Chuzhou was murdered so cruelly. But instead of using the "Take things slow" strategy of Wei Yuan, Qi An' turned his grief into a massive sense of justice and executed the Commander and Duke on spot. I was literally screaming until my neighbour started knocking my door.

Truthful in its Depiction of Power and Sacrifice:

It's a gritty exploration of the corrupting nature of power and the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition. The series doesn't shy away from the ugly truths of political maneuvering, showing the sacrifices, both personal and collective, that individuals must make to survive and perhaps, just perhaps, bring about change. Apart from the notable heroes, it's also about the ordinary people, often marginalized and overlooked, who find the strength to stand against injustice even when the odds are stacked against them. The sacrifices they make, both big and small, are genuinely heart-wrenching, and their quiet bravery is all the more impactful for its lack of fanfare. Tears ran down my eyes when I saw the bloodshed scene: it was so realistic that I couldn't hold any longer.

Detailed in its World-Building and Character Arcs:

From the bustling streets of the capital to the remote villages on the fringes of society, every location feels lived-in and authentic. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the story to unfold organically and never feeling rushed. The acting is phenomenal across the board, with each performance radiating a raw emotional honesty that draws you in. The series beautifully captures the essence of the period and the specific struggles of the characters, yet it transcends the confines of genre, speaking to universal themes of love, loss, betrayal, and the enduring power of hope.
The costumes, the sets, the subtle details – they all contribute to creating a rich and immersive experience. But what truly shines is the character development. We witness them grow, evolve, and grapple with their own demons. The subtle nuances in their expressions, the quiet shifts in their behavior, are all meticulously portrayed, adding layers of depth and complexity. The arc of the leading characters is particularly compelling, showcasing a spectrum of human emotions and vulnerabilities that resonate deeply.

I personally loved the way how the Xu Family was portrayed ---- notably Xu Xinnian's chaotic parents. Loved the character of Caiwei (a total foodie) , the absurd and awkward romance between Simu and Xinnian. Expected a little bit more of Qi An' and Princess Lin'an's romance. But let's save it for Season 2.
Precaution: Be emotionally prepared for Episode 39 and 40 if you are midway / just started / plan to watch.

Conclusion:
Overall, "Guardians of Dafeng" isn’t just a historical drama; it’s an emotional voyage that invites you to reflect on your own life's battles. It teaches us that heroes often arise from unexpected places and that the bonds we share are worth protecting at all costs. With its heart-touching storytelling, it's a must-watch for anyone seeking drama that lingers long after the final credits roll. I wholeheartedly recommend diving into this spellbinding tale—you won't regret it!

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A Classic That Must Be Seen At Least Once

First, and probably most importantly, the tracksuits! 🤣

Even considering how some things haven't aged as well, this would have been an absolutely amazing drama if the ML wasn't such a jerk. It's a huge turn off, and I don't blame anyone who couldn't muddle through and gave up on it. It's one thing to have a character arc where they learn to not be so awful, but the abusive behavior went on so long that it undercut the relationship development and romance.

That said, the story is great, beautifully written, and the ending is especially sweet. I can see why it's considered a must-see classic by so many hardcore drama enthusiasts. I would love to see a remake of this that cuts out a bit of the the unnecessary stuff and showcases this magical story.

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Wasn't horrible

Fyi, rating off of short series standards...

began watching this because I wanted to watch a sweet rom com that would make me smile. This is only 14 ep fyi, so that's really short for a cdrama (rom com cdramas usually range from 24-36 ep).

FYI: This is directed at a younger audience (because there's a bunch of weird situations)

Story:
-pacing was really weird. Sometimes they would rush scenes but drag others...
-slow burn, but the pay off wasn't really worth it. At the 92% mark, they get together.
-it's kind of like the writers threw all the tropes they could think of inside. In the first 6ish ep, it was funny, but it got old quick. Like, they were having decent communication until suddenly we got a misunderstanding for reasons that didn't match their past behaviors
-the ml had no game. He said he liked the fl but never showed it (except small smiles at random times)
-the fl did misunderstand him, but she was very empathetic to him, so I don't blame her (it's her fault for him not clarifying)
-the 2cp was much more interesting. Yan Zhi Chao (fl from Mr. Gu) acted really well and so did her ship. I enjoyed them more. They had decent chemistry (but kisses were lacking)
-there is some considerable third-wheeling
-started out as a work drama but then morphed into smth else?
-the more I think about it, the more I get confused
-the lack of direction in this drama is weird

-Don't know if this counts as a spoiler : Why do they suddenly start dating, marry, and have kids? The pacing is really weird y'all...

Acting.
-Jiang Zhi Nan was done dirty. She deserved a better ml. Her acting was a 100 times better than his.
-their chemistry was kinda bad. I mean, their kisses weren't the worse, but they didn't look comfortable with each other. I can deal with slow burn, if it pays off. This slow burn didn't, so now I feel like I wasted my time.
-it was obvious that they rushed a bunch of the scenes. I get that it's a short drama, but c'mon

Music:
-would turn on at random times (kind of was a nuisance)
-some of the songs are ok

Rewatch:
-I wouldn't rewatch, nor would I recommend. I would call this drama a disappointment.

I hope you have a better experience than me.

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Crazy, Hilarious, Addictive, Unexpected Ending

When I first started watching Guardian of the Dafeng, my immediate reaction was, “What the heck is going on?” The drama is an eclectic mix of genres—modern-day elements, wuxia, xianxia, dark magic, mythical creatures, palace politics, and even a kind of cell phone system. It’s a potpourri of ideas thrown together. However, once I got the hang of it, I became hooked. The sheer craziness and humor made it an enjoyable watch. Dylan Wang is hilariously over-the-top, and even his cringiest moments are amusing.

The story follows Yang Ling, a modern real estate agent who time-travels to a fictional ancient dynasty called Dafeng. He finds himself inhabiting the body of Xu Qi’an, the nephew of a low-ranking government official. Xu Qi’an regains consciousness in prison and soon learns the dire circumstances surrounding his incarceration. His uncle, responsible for escorting government funds, has lost the money, resulting in his imprisonment and impending execution. Meanwhile, Xu Qi’an faces exile, and the female members of his family are condemned to a brothel.

Determined to change his fate, Xu Qi’an leverages his modern scientific and technological knowledge to uncover the mystery behind the missing funds. His ability to think critically and adapt to his new environment helps him navigate the challenges ahead. Additionally, his partial knowledge of ancient poetry—highly revered in that era—becomes a powerful tool in gaining recognition. His quick wit and ingenuity propel him through the ranks, ultimately leading him to become the Da Geng Ren—the Guardian—charged with protecting the kingdom from dark forces and crimes.

Xu Qi’an’s journey is akin to Forrest Gump, where misfortunes turn into opportunities, and luck seems to follow him at every turn. As he rises in status, he gains supernatural abilities, mastering dark and celestial forces, and accumulates immense wealth for his family. His adventure is wildly entertaining and filled with comedic moments.

Characters and Acting
Dylan Wang’s performance is outstanding. He effortlessly transitions from looking silly and exaggerated with pouting lips to delivering intense, piercing stares in serious moments. The entire cast, including the antagonists, is well-developed and humorous, with each character possessing distinct strengths and weaknesses.

What I Liked
One of the highlights of the drama is the way Xu Qi’an strategizes through situations. His thought process is audibly represented in thought bubbles, showing viewers the best course of action in any given moment.

The drama’s blend of the impossible and the possible, the insane and the logical, the outrageous and the acceptable, is what makes it so uniquely entertaining. I also enjoyed Xu Qi’an’s relationships—his bond with his cousin, who is righteous yet stubborn, his loyalty to his two best friends, and his dynamic with his superior, who always watches out for him.

Furthermore, Xu Qi’an’s approach to justice resonates deeply. When the proper channels fail to serve justice, he takes matters into his own hands. This aspect of the drama connects with real-world frustrations over injustice, making it even more engaging.

Final Thoughts
The ending is unexpected and somewhat abrupt. Xu Qi’an seemingly disappears, which makes sense since he originates from the future. However, at the same time, he exists as a member of the Xu family, leading to a puzzling contradiction. The identity of the mysterious figure, which remained a mystery throughout the series, is finally revealed in a surprising twist. However, the convoluted nature of the ending leaves several questions unanswered. Notably, Xu Qi’an doesn’t return to the future as Yang Ling, leaving an open-ended feeling, as if a continuation might be in the works.

Overall, Guardian of the Dafeng is a wild, entertaining ride filled with humor, action, and unexpected twists. Despite some narrative inconsistencies, it remains a highly enjoyable watch.

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fofo e divertido

esse dorama é muito divertido sem duvidas!! casal protagonista fofo com bastante química
esse dorama me surpreendeu, nao botava fé nenhuma mas é muito gostoso de assistir
só nao gostei do casal secundário no caso o principal, a lider de equipe e o assessor achei nada ver os dois
mas se você procura um dorama leve e divertido pra matar o tempo com crtz assista esse
recomendo muitoo

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