Faithful Reviews

This drama is truly a dark horse! I was inexplicably drawn to its style when I saw the trailer, and the actual episodes exceeded my expectations! The two storylines, one set seven years ago and the other in the present, run parallel to each other.
It was a tragic drama seven years ago, and now it's a refreshing drama. Those who underestimate the commoners dare not raise their heads, and when looking back at the past, the truth is obscured. The invisible threads of fate converge, breaking the deadlock.
No one can watch it without uttering a word of admiration! Qiao Zhen Yu's portrayal of a scumbag is so convincing that it makes one grind their teeth. His face is written with eight characters: hypocritical and wicked, committing all sorts of misdeeds!
He's such a talented actor.

The victim in the imperfect ancient setting, the beginning is somewhat intriguing. The female lead has quietly endured for many years, strategically positioning herself to gain power and influence in the Ningguo Duke's residence, aiming to deal with the despicable Wu Lian.
The chess game has begun, and now each member of the team can watch and strategize. Seven years of enduring hardships cannot extinguish the fiery determination.
The hanging lantern symbolizes the unresolved grievances. The art direction is quite exquisite, but the acting is a bit inconsistent. Wu Qian's charisma has mostly returned, she looks beautiful, but her speech seems to be slowed down by 0.5x speed.

I am so impressed that I give it a five-star rating. It's been a long time since I've seen such an excellent Chinese drama. Seven years later, the unjust is finally redressed, but everything can't go back to how it used to be.
It's really hard to move on. Ru Lan stabbed herself with a golden hairpin to uphold justice, San Niang's departure resulted in the peacock soaring freely by the Lord's side, Li Chun Feng couldn't personally hand the rabbit lantern to Xiao Ling, and Liu, the constable, returned the treasure hairpin after seven years.

Each person entered the game for personal gain, revenge, or love, but that's not important. What matters is that these ordinary people from different backgrounds and positions have chosen the right path. It's not a satisfying ending filled with triumph.
Many people have given everything, even their lives. Though Wu Lian died, his accomplice continues to hold an official position in the capital. Chen Zhi Fu was only demoted, and the Duke's wife, who intentionally covered up the truth, emerged unscathed.
Even Zhang Rong Er's punishment was lenient. But even if a flea shakes a tree, it still carries meaning. At least when Meng Wan smiles in the end, I can find solace. May we be as resolute as Lan Xin and establish the Pine and Chrysanthemum Alliance together.
I feel sorry for the characters in the drama, but they won't have regrets.

The typical sudden death in the latter half of the series. I hope domestic producers understand that if it's meant to be a 12-episode drama, it should be concluded in 12 episodes.
If it's meant to be a 16-episode drama, it should end in 16 episodes. Don't stretch a 20,000-word original work forcefully into 25 episodes. The writing skills of the scriptwriter might be good, but I wouldn't recommend investing in it...
Actually, this drama had great potential. When it presented itself as a "ancient version of Fang Siqi's First Love Paradise," it evoked emotions and resonance.
The first half had its highlights, but the latter half really needed a boost to wrap things up; otherwise, it became quite difficult to watch. It's safe to say it's a big disappointment.
I'd give it about two and a half stars.

How is it possible to make such a tense story feel so dull? The director should take the blame for the entire episode lacking a sense of balance and rhythm. And as for the character played by Qiao Zhen Yu, since it's known that his true nature is that of a demon, the approach should have been the opposite. First, establish his outwardly righteous image, so that there would be a clear contrast. But now, from the moment he appears, he already looks very evil and sleazy. Honestly, this director... doesn't pass in any aspect, so why be a director at all? And the actors, even though Wu Qian is in good condition, her acting is just so poor! This is her leading role, but is her lifeless idol drama acting sufficient? Especially in the scene where she is bullied and forcefully kissed by Qiao Zhen Yu, which is supposed to be the climax of this episode... It has been portrayed like this... Hu Yi Xuan's acting is even slightly better than Wu Qian's. Also, the pacing is too slow. The ending of the first episode should have included Ru Lan's suicide and Meng Wan deciding to seek revenge for her dear friend. But now, it's at this strange point. What is the intention? How can it attract viewers to continue watching? Since the "Ru Lan case" is the hook that connects the entire series, how could they end the episode without utilizing the hook? Such mediocre storytelling...

I'm not satisfied with the final outcome. The pacing of the plot in the earlier episodes was well-executed, but the later part, where the women come forward to accuse Wu Lian, felt rushed and bland.
It's understandable that the Empress Dowager ordered a thorough investigation into Wu Lian's case, leading everyone to set aside their worries and testify. However, I think it would have been more intriguing if Meng Wan had requested the presence of the victimized women in the courtroom, pushing the plot to a climax.
Although the backdrop of this drama is ancient, such a storyline wouldn't feel out of place even in today's society. When I saw Lin Ru Lan being subjected to the scorn of those around her, I wished I had the gift of gab to retaliate against those defamatory words on her behalf...
This drama easily prompts deep contemplation.

This drama breaks away from many clichés commonly found in Chinese dramas.

1. It doesn't preserve the "purity" of Meng Wan just because she is the female lead. Both the female lead and the second female lead couldn't escape their circumstances, which is in stark contrast to certain dramas that emphasize chastity.

2. It doesn't create a love story for the female lead that involves being saved by a powerful male lead. The female lead relies on herself throughout.

3. It doesn't include a female second lead or other characters who are dumbed down just to highlight the female lead.
All the characters shine brightly as strong women.

Huang Jiao Jiao, who plays Ru Lan San Niang, initially thought that the main characters would have romantic relationships during the story, but it doesn't happen. They come together with loyalty, fighting for justice.
It's a touching comradery, a friendship based on mutual appreciation and reliance. The relationships between Liu Xin and San Niang, Ru Lan and Shen Mu are very special. I appreciate the dedication of the director, screenwriter, and the cast. It's a pity that more people haven't seen it.

It could have been a four-star drama, but it had a disappointing ending. Was the climactic court scene deleted? The latter part dragged on too long, trying to stretch the plot to fit two episodes for each character.
At first, Ran, the actress, seemed to have a monotonous expression, but she improved as the series progressed. Wu Qian's voice was distracting, not because of her vocal tone, but due to the rhythm and intonation of her speech.
Moreover, her demeanor was lacking. Don't attribute it to adapting to her character's identity; her uneven shoulders were noticeable, and she often tilted her head.
Proper deportment is crucial when portraying a historical setting. The suspense was insufficient, as I could already guess the entire plot development after watching the beginning.
The testimonies of the embroidery women who came forward later were hastily brushed aside. Did they not know how to script it? There were depths and discussions, but no resolutions.
The latter part really fell short.

Originally, the overall show was alright, but when Liu San Niang died, you guys really put me in an awkward position. Big brothers and sisters, there was a pile of wooden fences behind her, and the iron chain was tied to the wood. I even rewound and watched it a few times. There were plenty of strong people with weapons around you. Was it really that difficult to break the wooden fence? Was it really that hard to cut it with a knife? I'm afraid you'll say later that Liu San Niang broke the ridiculously thin wooden fence and made it look so heroic and tragic. I truly have no words to say. Rolling my eyes to the sky.

The script is hanging in the air, but let's just watch it. At least they're really seeking revenge, and there's not much romantic storyline. I don't really have any demands now. I'll just pretend I didn't see some of the contrived dramatic conflicts. After all, it's a drama. As for Ru Lan's words, it's true that people sometimes make mistakes when they're in a hurry and don't think things through. So her storyline does make sense. But as for the antagonist, how many times do I have to say it? Don't give the antagonist reasons, and don't cast handsome guys as the antagonist. And Wu Qian, can you please stop using that breathy voice when speaking? I have to hold my breath when listening to you speak.

The original work was only 20,000 words, but they stretched it into 25 episodes, so inevitably, there was some padding and dragging. There were also unnecessary sacrifices and inappropriate whitewashing. The characters are indeed quite flat, and they don't grip the audience's attention to keep watching.
However, the dual-story structure is innovative, and the script has lofty intentions. It delves deep into exploration. For example, Lan exhausts all methods but ultimately can only meet death, and Meng Wan has to weigh whether she has selfish motives in reopening the case seven years later.
It's difficult but commendable to contemplate whether it's worth it to harm innocent victims in the pursuit of justice. Despite its flaws, I still recommend it.

Betrayed and violated, yet remained silent for the sake of reputation. Endured years of domestic abuse but dared not leave for survival. Subjected to emotional violence, yet chose to swallow grievances for the sake of family honor...
On the surface, it appears that Wu Lian and others were in the wrong, but ultimately, it is the rigid and dogmatic Cheng-Zhu Confucianism that is the greatest evil! The so-called reputation and honor are nothing more than shackles designed by pseudo-gentlemen to control women, along with the ignorant masses who blindly follow their lead, playing the role of "justice" while committing acts of accomplice.
They defend their actions as "righteous" until the truth is revealed, and then they all fall silent, as if they were never involved.

The original work was actually a short piece of only 20,000 words, serving as a basic framework. During the adaptation process, the script appropriately condensed and merged characters, concentrating conflicts and adding more dramatic tension, thus enriching the content.
In contrast to the original work's minimalist approach, the script follows the pattern of a "happy ending," where grievances are avenged and enmities are settled, satisfying the audience's desires.
Focusing on the concept of "righteousness," the characters' personalities are carefully portrayed, with a balance between detail and brevity. The addition of the righteous courtesan and the revised Li Chun Feng as a couple, particularly the skillful inclusion of the character San Niang, the righteous courtesan, adds depth and individuality to the characters.
However, there are also clear drawbacks. As the scale of the story expands, the content becomes distorted, and the motivation for Wu Lian's villainy being attributed solely to his family feels shallow.
The thematic elements take a backseat to the plot, and this aspect is not handled well.

Imperfect victims + Fang Siqi, who dares to expose a scumbag + Brothel melting pot + Dual storyline of revenge against PUAs and perverts. Both female leads are imperfect victims, but they are brave, even though their courage takes different forms and leads to different outcomes.

When Meng Wan hung up the lanterns one by one, there was a satisfying feeling, similar to Mei Changsu throwing the wooden plaques into the fire one by one.

In terms of performances, Qiao Zhen Yu did a great job portraying the antagonist.
Under the guise of a refined gentleman, he revealed a filthy, ugly, despicable soul.

Li Jia Hang was unremarkable, and Wu Qian's appearance was beautiful, but her lines always felt like they were from a different dimension compared to the other actors.

The beginning was pretty good, but things got a bit ridiculous when Wu Lian went to the capital and started seeking an official position, bringing up the Great Li Temple.
Mo Mo being an accomplice was a sudden and sloppy twist. The ending was also abrupt, with a random cut during the courtroom scene, making it feel inexplicable.

There was no need to show Wu Lian's childhood; there was no need to whitewash him.
Saying he's a pervert because his wife wasn't a virgin puts the blame on women again. He's a pervert simply because he is, with no other reason.

Qiao Zhen Yu did a good job; he had that cold and sinister vibe like a venomous snake.
The actress who played Lin Ru Lan was so beautiful and full of charm. Wu Qian has really aged; she no longer looks like a young girl.

A rapist who ruined the lives of so many girls only received a punishment of 30 cane strikes and exile.
But to make him face consequences, two lives were sacrificed. Is it really worth it? It would have been better to assassinate him, not for the sake of justice, but just to ensure he faced punishment.

At first, I was a bit resistant to watching this drama. I wasn't quite convinced by Wu Qian as an actress; there was a sense of coquetry about her that reminded me of her previous role in "Wave 4".
However, I really enjoyed the storyline of this drama. It's innovative, with ordinary people joining forces to bring down the top idol. I only lament that the thinking in ancient times was so backward.
The unique filming techniques and the interweaving of the story between seven years ago and the present make it easier for viewers to understand the cause and effect.

Wu Qian's acting skills are passable, although occasionally she comes across as a bit stiff.
Qiao Zhen Yu opened my eyes; I never expected the stunning man in the wheelchair from back then to take on such a role. It was quite a challenge. The sacrifices of Third Sister Ang and Li Chun Feng really touched me.
And was the last episode also meant to comfort us...?

Although some of the sentimental scenes felt a bit awkward, and the sacrifices made by the main group of characters seemed a bit forced, there were moments when the female lead's delivery of lines felt a bit stiff (such as the scene where she stops the carriage).
However, these issues don't detract from the fact that it is a very smooth, innovative, and interesting drama overall. The pacing is well-executed, and the female characters portrayed are vibrant and powerful. I really enjoyed the "if" storyline in the 25th episode, where some opened a clothing store, some went on a sea voyage, and some lived peaceful lives with their families.
It showed everyone having a bright future.

I feel it's a fantastic drama where a woman living in a feudal era can stand up for herself and her companions' justice after being violated. Even in the face of powerful societal pressures and formidable opponents, she bravely emerges, which requires immense courage.

Seven years later, for the sake of the girl's justice from seven years ago, the eight individuals who had helped her back then come together through cooperation. Although there were conflicts, arguments, hesitations, and even deaths along the way, in the end, the righteousness in their hearts triumphs over everything, bringing the wrongdoers to justice.
I couldn't hold back my tears when I watched the final scenes.

The blissful moments in the last episode also brought a smile to my face. How wonderful it would be if everything were like parallel timelines, even though we may never meet in this lifetime.

Meng Wan, this character, must be someone with a strong character. If her family hadn't fallen, she would definitely be a renowned woman.

She was burdened by her family and defiled by the landlord, to the point where she became someone else's stepmother. Her husband is not a high-ranking official, just a lowly position.

In order to seek revenge for her good friend, she had to climb to a higher position. She knew that relying solely on herself wouldn't work. When she was managing the women in the backyard, she made great efforts to promote her husband. If her husband gained influence, she would naturally have more power and authority.

She exchanged years of careful care for the bedridden Old Madam's favor, in order to increase her chances of rising in status.

What a cautious and strategic woman she is, confined to such a small circle. It's truly a waste of talent.

When she burned the prescription back then, it was evident how resolute she could be. She sought self-preservation and survival, initially wanting to resolve matters peacefully. However, she couldn't avoid embarking on the path of revenge, which is the result of past grievances and blessings.

She skillfully gathered the most influential figures currently present, repaired the concubines in her household without turning them into enemies, and instead formed a different kind of alliance.

After the struggle ended, she achieved her own goals without creating new enemies. Truly remarkable.

People are not like dollars; it's impossible to please everyone. However, she only let the antagonists oppose her, while utilizing the people around her to achieve a unified front and reach her objectives. That's truly impressive.

It is often said that men should establish their careers before starting a family, but I disagree. What kind of achievement can be considered as establishing a career?

Isn't it good to have a companion who is wholeheartedly willing to accompany you on your journey?

Shouldn't men also be able to withstand loneliness and need companionship and nurturing?

In the drama, Liu, the constable, has been involved in this line of work for many years, and he is greedy and lustful. However, he has his own principles.

He does things the way he does just to make a living without causing major harm. I don't think all the ill-gotten money he receives goes into his own pocket; he probably shares it with his comrades.

Although this constable seemed impressive in the past, his salary was probably meager. Liu took notice of the tofu seller in the market and must have helped her out on numerous occasions.

Being beautiful can sometimes be troublesome, as it attracts unwanted attention from undesirables. As Liu listened to the tofu seller praising him for his sense of justice and responsibility, he couldn't help but find it amusing, with his face almost hidden in his chest.

Even an iron-blooded man like him has moments of shyness and timidity. It is thanks to the tofu seller, who is beautiful, kind-hearted, and straightforward, that Liu feels such a strong sense of responsibility. That's why he persists in seeking justice even after spending seven years in prison.

That's the power of love. It seems that good men are truly brought out by praises.

Sometimes, as a person, you cannot be excessively kind. If you are too kind, you will burden yourself with heavy responsibilities. You may feel that you are unable to handle certain things well or meet the expectations of others, and you will feel sorry for them. Then you will fall into deep self-blame. In reality, it is not necessary. Whether you are the one who entrusted or the one responsible, it is a mutual commitment. When someone puts their hopes in you, it is based on trust, a simple agreement.

The success or failure of a task depends on many factors. Even though you may be the one carrying it out, the outcome is not solely determined by you. It also depends on timing, favorable circumstances, and other people involved.

Of course, our hearts are inclined towards the good. However, if the result is not as desired, there is no need to blame yourself and feel so upset. Do what can be remedied and let go of what can be let go.

We only live this life once, so why burden ourselves with so much misery?

In the drama, the protagonist Meng Wan carries too much on her shoulders. She feels responsible for her best friend's courageous sacrifice, thinking it is her fault for not revealing the truth earlier and for not being able to stop her when she was determined to seek revenge.

Are you a deity?

Are you her mother? Do you have the responsibility and obligation to do so much for her? Can her relentless pursuit of love be easily influenced by a few words and actions from you?

What has happened has happened, so why further sacrifice yourself?

Lin Ru Lan's courage is commendable, and her determination to punish evil forces is worthy of praise. However, her impulsive and hot-tempered nature is truly worrisome.

At first, she was infatuated and fell victim to the deceit of the lustful landlord, despite firm resistance. Afterwards, upon learning the truth, instead of reflecting on herself, she blamed her good friend Meng Wan.

Meng Wan is just a close friend, not her parents. She has done her utmost to protect Lin Ru Lan, never leaving her side, even sharing a bed with her. But still, she couldn't keep her safe.

How can you blame your best friend when you have such a crush? Do you know that every time she comforts you and explains things, it reopens Meng Wan's wounds and causes her pain?

Lin Ru Lan's unrealistic desire for revenge couldn't be stopped by Meng Wan's repeated attempts. In Lin Ru Lan's eyes, Meng Wan is a timid coward who values her own life too much, and she sees her as no different from the real culprit. Lin Ru Lan is indignant that Meng Wan didn't report everything to her. Why should Meng Wan have to report everything to her?

Even if you were told, how would you react? If it didn't happen to you, you would only offer a few words of comfort and then be more cautious in the future.

How naive to think that a constable can uphold justice for you and make the world a better place.

In the end, she lost her life, but it was her own doing. She can't blame others.

When Rulan and Wu Lian first got involved, it could be considered partially voluntary, right? At that time, she must have known that Wu Lian already had a main wife. So did Rulan initially intend to become a concubine or a second wife? But when she found out that Wu Lian was a scumbag, she caused a scene at his workplace, seeking revenge and wanting to ruin him. In that context, could it be seen as disregarding social norms and engaging in an illicit relationship? And when she didn't get what she wanted, she sought revenge fiercely. So, does Wu Lian deserve whatever Rulan does to him in return? Is this logic sound? Can we consider Rulan's behavior as double standards? She disregarded social norms and boundaries at first, and later expected Wu Lian to be a responsible and law-abiding person towards her?

I truly love Ru Lan. She has always been brave, determined, and kind. I really admire her.

Some people in the barrage criticize her for being naive and only relying on reporting to the authorities. Others say she should marry this person or that person. Yes, if she were to do that, Ru Lan's physical body may indeed not die, but her spirit would be completely dead.

If this Ru Lan doesn't report to the authorities and chooses to marry, what about the next Ru Lan? If everyone remains silent, Wu Lian's crimes will never be exposed, and one after another, women will continue to suffer.

Ru Lan is fighting not just for herself but for other women as well. Only when people see through Wu Lian's true face will they refrain from sending their daughters into his clutches!

In my heart, Ru Lan is a sacrificial figure. She is not afraid of death; she just hopes that no other women will suffer like her. She knows the immense power of Wu Lian, but she is determined to fight to the end!

If this is naivety, then I believe that each one of us should have this naivety. Of course, I prefer to call it courage!

I don't want any more sisters to suffer, but if unfortunate circumstances arise, I hope every sister will have the courage and determination to stand up!

The protagonist was decent, but the antagonist was just too strong. The seven-year plan of the female lead was defeated around the tenth episode, all because of her face, OMG. It was previously so memorable, the antagonist shouldn't have been forgotten so easily.
Didn't she expect to be recognized? It felt like a forced exit for several characters to bring about unity. Will there be no punishment for the Madam of the Ningguo Residence? In the last episode, it was finally a parallel world, wouldn't it be more wonderful for the scholar who made a name for himself to marry Tian?
(And in the parallel world, the antagonist became a renowned chef, what a twist!) However, there were still touching moments. The protagonist's skill in rhetoric and the ability to deliver powerful speeches did have an emotional impact.

Seven years ago, I was itching with hatred. But after seven years, I've been cruising smoothly. The plot is simple, the pace is sluggish, and it's a bit boring. It's not worth an eight out of ten.

Qiao Zhen Yu is a bit strange. The female lead's original voice lines are also peculiar. The deliberate lowering of the voice. Li Jia Hang doesn't have any sparks.

There were so many coincidences in the early stages.
Duke Fu Ren didn't have any suspicions. How did he become Duke Fu Ren?

It's watchable, but not particularly captivating. The plot closely follows current social issues.

The second female lead is decent. The plot is good, with various details showcasing a mastery of scheming, occasional lack of foresight, overestimation of character, and underestimation of human nature. It's an above-average production.
The past and present details are interspersed throughout the episodes, which can be a bit messy in terms of exposition, but it's still acceptable. The conclusion is a bit simplistic, relying on Lord Lou's command to forcibly take away Wu Lian.
It feels like all the previous hardships were in vain, suppressed and wasted. Wu Qian's portrayal of the role of the main Niang Zi in the drama is handled fairly well, but her presence in scenes involving the second female lead feels somewhat lacking.
It's the first time I've seen Qiao Zhen Yu play a villain, and he truly embodies evil, with a wicked and cunning appearance that's completely different from his previous roles. The rest of the cast each have their own highlights and don't drag the show down at all.

It's pretty bad. The portrayal of women and the overall plot of the drama have extremely unrealistic elements. For example, Rulan clearly told Tian Xiaoling that this place was not safe and that Wu Lian was not a good person.
She advised her to be cautious for her own sake and Dingru's sake. But somehow Tian Xiaoling felt that she could protect herself just because she had read some books. Is this a normal reaction for an ordinary girl?
It seems abnormal, doesn't it? Moreover, the female protagonist planned for seven years, but after Wu Lian discovered her plans, every subsequent action was thwarted. The portrayal of the antagonist is overly powerful, isn't it?

17 如兰赴死，太悲绝了。

17 as graceful as an orchid, willing to die, it's so tragic.

女性意识的苏醒不再仅是独立自主公平，近些年的剧，多了很多对本源意识的剖析-不完美受害人。

The awakening of female consciousness is no longer just about independence, autonomy, and equality.
In recent years, many dramas have provided in-depth analysis of the primal consciousness - imperfect victims.

女孩子原本只是单纯对师长的崇拜和敬仰，如果在同龄男孩身上得到的是单纯懵懂的爱，在老男身上，随时可被理解成身体和肉欲，连情爱和欢愉都不懂的孩子，连哄带骗到床上；

Girls originally only had pure admiration and respect for their teachers. If they received innocent and naive love from boys their age, with older men, it can easily be interpreted as purely physical and carnal desires.
They are children who don't even understand emotions, love, and joy, and they are deceived and manipulated into bed.

而后斯德哥尔摩，以为爱上了加害者；等一切都懂了，只剩恶心和悔恨。

Then comes Stockholm syndrome, mistaking it for falling in love with the perpetrator.
When they finally understand everything, all that remains is disgust and regret.

希望女孩子能看懂甄别这些，收到健康快乐的爱情，不要再有畸形扭曲的感情。

I hope that girls can understand and discern these situations, and receive healthy and happy love, avoiding any more distorted and twisted emotions.

I actually went to see it because of Wu Lian's performance. Naturally, the ending for Wu Lian in the original work is better. The drama version made his act of swallowing needles too simplistic. In relation to paying homage to Fang Siqi, it's understandable, but in reality, there is never a direct correlation between evil deeds and their consequences.
It wasn't surprising to see the lawsuit being won, but watching the 25th episode of "Huangliang One Dream" was a bit tear-jerking. The great endings in film and television always seem to conceal the suspicion of tragedy.
I long for something beautiful, but beauty is not easily attained.