In Full Bloom" continues the tradition of "romantic and sentimental literature" represented by the Mandarin Ducks and Butterflies School in terms of its theme. The original novel has strange pauses and periods in its writing style, making the reading experience somewhat uncomfortable. However, since the entire series was actually filmed in Shanghainese, from the perspective of "Black Cat, White Cat," it should still be recognized and encouraged. The attention, discussions, and even the interest in learning or revisiting Shanghainese sparked by "In Full Bloom" can be seen as a much-needed boost for this language that has essentially lost its functional vitality.
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DouDouFoodie1 year ago rating:6
The melodrama of the screenwriter is so advanced that even the sophisticated cinematography can't save it. Even if we disregard the original work and forget the basic irrelevance between the plot and the original, the self-importance and pretentiousness of the screenwriter, which resembles "My Former Life," occasionally disgusts people. Vulgarity is not necessarily a bad thing and, to some extent, it is the essence and charm of "Blooming Flowers" in the original work. However, the excessive reincarnation of Jack Sue and the women who love me like a wolf on Huanghe Road are absolutely not the essence of "Blooming Flowers.
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Wanderer1 year ago rating:9.6
After enduring the grand and exaggerated setup in the first few episodes, the excessive force gradually subsides, and the drama enters a different side of the 1990s business war. It's unlike any previous visual adaptations; it possesses the unique style of Wong Kar-wai's Shanghai in the 90s, depicting the era's trendsetters with a refreshing plot. I look forward to the exciting storyline and the witty dialogues that faithfully capture the essence of the original work. Despite occasional vulgar and verbose descriptions, Wong Kar-wai's adaptation is indeed a fleshed-out rendition, leaving a lasting impression.
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FarewellToday1 year ago rating:6
Mixed feelings. I love the classic directorial style of Wong Kar-wai, but Hu Ge seems a bit unsuited for the acting style that Wong prefers. If it weren't for Wong Kar-wai's involvement, I would strongly criticize this drama, even giving it less than half a star.
Overall, it doesn't match the atmosphere of 1990s Shanghai, nor does it capture the essence of the original novel. While watching it, I kept questioning what on earth I was seeing. Perhaps it's more suitable for those who haven't read the book. However, maybe everyone should just read the original work instead.
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Xx111 year ago rating:5.5
Everything is great except for the weak plot. It takes perseverance to even continue watching the first few episodes. Are all those flashy techniques just a cover-up for the flaws in the storyline? But this drama isn't a textbook, and the audience isn't a class of film students. The plot being poorly crafted renders everything else futile. If Wong Kar-wai wasn't credited, then the audience owes Chen Kaige an apology. After all, when it comes to playing with art, who is better than whom?
Unspeakable1 year ago rating:6.5
Before it aired, I thought it was a spy drama, but then I realized it was set in the 1990s. It's such a noisy drama, with so many arguments and high-pitched tones. My ears are numb from listening, to the point where I have to adjust the volume whenever Ma Yi Li appears on screen. The visuals and colors are really good, and Xin Zhi Lei reaches new heights of beauty in this drama. I honestly didn't realize she was this beautiful before.
Stoneflower Planter1 year ago rating:8.1
For now, I would give it three stars. The pretense is truly pretentious, and the mystification feels genuine. However, there are some inexplicable aspects, and the dark color palette is visually tiring. I haven't watched Wong Kar-wai's movies before, so I'm not sure if it's always like this. I'll have to see if I should add or subtract stars. As for Hu Ge... his acting is still the same, reminiscent of Ming Tai...
yjc1 year ago rating:9.8
This TV drama is so on point. It's exquisitely crafted, and the answer to how intricate a drama can be is presented in a profusion of blossoms. The cinematography, visuals, and atmosphere are truly amazing. With Hu Ge, Ma Yi Li, Tang Yan, and Xin Zhi Lei, it's both handsome and beautiful. It delivers a satisfying sense of business competition and profound character development. It's absolutely brilliant.
OrangeEarnings1 year ago rating:9.5
Bao Zong's character has truly come to life, and Hu Ge's acting and appearance have both exploded in this role! In the flashback scenes, Hu Ge perfectly captures the innocence of A Bao and later the mature and astute demeanor of the slick-haired Bao Zong. Under the aesthetic lighting and cinematography of Director Wang, Bao Zong's character instantly becomes three-dimensional.
ClassicMusic1 year ago rating:9.9
I deeply understood the meaning behind Ye Shu's words, "Always leave yourself an out." Thankfully, Li Li intervened during the Three Sheep Brand business competition and alerted Bao Zong about the presence of high-quality imitations in the market. This prevented Bao Zong from unnecessary trouble, and in return, he wholeheartedly and tirelessly helped her.
Qian1 year ago rating:9.8
Even though I've only watched a little bit, I still want to give it a 5-star rating just because it's Wong Kar-wai. It suddenly brings back memories of my bookish phase when I used to romanticize everything, haha. Also, the "Blueberry Night" that I've watched repeatedly during New Year's Eve, should I include it tomorrow night as well?
AliceTang1 year ago rating:9.6
Excellent in every aspect. It suits my taste perfectly. I've already started rewatching the first ten episodes, especially after finishing the tenth episode. I truly want to exclaim: This is a masterpiece! Art is always subjective, so it's better to appreciate and judge it for oneself. I say "Fanhua" is great, and it truly is!
Elegance1 year ago rating:9.7
Wong Kar-wai, the director, truly lives up to his reputation. The visuals are exquisite, and each shot is unique, showcasing the actors' beauty to the fullest. It's a visual feast! It's been a while since I've seen such a beautifully crafted TV drama. The cinematography in "Blooming Flowers" is absolutely amazing!
Ah Cheng1 year ago rating:5.4
How to create a pile of golden dog poop that stinks to everyone? "Flowers of Prosperity" provides the answer. It can only be said that Wong Kar-wai's reputation is indeed significant, and even people in China who don't watch movies know him. However, what kind of role Wong Kar-wai plays in this is truly questionable.
Crush.L1 year ago rating:8.2
After finishing "Blooming Flowers," I felt like I traveled back to the golden era of Shanghai, experiencing that unique atmosphere and emotions. The visuals and music were stunning, captivating me completely. If there were a time machine, I would genuinely love to go back to that era and experience it firsthand.
GuanRen1 year ago rating:9.8
I like the open and straightforward conflicts in this business war. The portrayal of the conflicts between Lu Mei Lin and Li Li is deeply compelling. The series skips the investigative process and focuses directly on the methods used by Li Li and Boss Bao to handle situations, which is quite satisfying and enjoyable.
Ivor Baker1 year ago rating:9.6
I've watched a few episodes and couldn't resist binge-watching it. The drama has a strong sense of the era, and the relationships between A Bao, Ye Shu, Tao Tao, Miss Wang, and Ling Zi are portrayed really well. I'm deeply moved by the genuine emotions depicted in the series.
Jojo1 year ago rating:7.5
Is the narrator there just to pass the censorship or because they think the audience won't understand? Is it a Shanghai version of "The Great Era" or a Hong Kong version of "The Great Shanghai"? If someone else had directed it, I would have given it one star for sure. But with "Sunglasses King" at the helm, it somehow feels reasonable. Hmm... I must admit, Ma Yi Li's style is the most authentic.
BigLaughSis1 year ago rating:9.8
The polarizing reviews of this TV drama are unexpectedly interesting. Upon careful consideration, I realized that the main reasons for the negative reviews are: firstly, significant deviations from the original work; secondly, a stark contrast to the nostalgic image of the hardship-filled 90s that viewers have been accustomed to; and thirdly, a resistance or inability to accept the ambiguous filming techniques and narrative style, which some may consider as unnecessarily mysterious.
As for the reasons behind my full-star rating, they are rather simple and straightforward: firstly, I haven't read the original work, so I don't have any preconceived notions or filters based on it; secondly, the lavish and stylish visuals, scenes, characters, and storyline all meet my expectations of the ceiling that mainland Chinese dramas can reach; and thirdly, I'm delighted to see a film director who sticks to his own style, and in a way that the general audience can understand, presents his interpretation of the golden era in a TV drama.
I am grateful to the "Blooming Flowers" team for delivering a well-crafted and meticulously produced mainland Chinese drama in this challenging year of 2023. I look forward to a splendid 2024 where we can also enjoy a blossoming journey with Director Bao!
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Kunlun Attired in Green1 year ago rating:8.9
Although it's said that the production team collected a lot of vintage items from that era, it seems like Wong Kar-wai didn't intend to make a "period version" of the drama. His "Blossoms" feels more like a dazzling and elusive dream, filled with contradictory and chaotic vibes. The majority of the scenes are set at night, using the interplay of light and shadow, along with splendid neon lights, to weave a scene of extravagance. It blends elements of urban martial arts, gangsters, Republican-era legends, and espionage narratives, yet it also resembles the vibrant colors of spring. That's why only filters that enhance the beauty to an almost distorted level can create the required dreamy atmosphere for the story. If there's one drawback, it's the cast; they don't quite fit in smoothly with the overall production.
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Beyond Passing Time1 year ago rating:5.4
While watching, I always tried to convince myself that this is a wuxia genre, a light-hearted story, and not to take it seriously. But I'm sorry, I couldn't do it. Countless people were deceived in that wave, whether it was by high-interest loans, framed by peers, a single government order, or simply unlucky. They lost their families, their possessions, and it also meant losing the right to choose their remaining years. Some lost limbs, some lost their lives, thrown into iron cages and sunk into the sea. This drama portrays the cruel accumulation and exploitation of capital as a tribute to the era, which is intolerable. What's even more heartbreaking is that these events happened only two or three decades ago, yet the new generation seems to have no awareness of what occurred. Therefore, the most terrifying thing is mutual forgetting.
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showywin1 year ago rating:8
It possesses the appearance of high-end American dramas, but it's all show and no substance. It's pretentious, with top-notch production design, cinematography, post-production, and the best actors in the country. Unfortunately, all of these resources are wasted on a mediocre commercial story. If only it had a script like "Billions" or "Succession," then it might be worth watching. Who wants to see an overacting old man trying to teach a stoic pretty boy? And they even made it 30 episodes long! It lacks an engaging plot, and any flashy techniques used are simply a waste of the film and television resources. The Chinese directors and screenwriters don't live up to the standards set by the production teams. It's truly regrettable.
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Nanguajiang1 year ago rating:9.7
It's so good, seriously! The appearance of Aqing (Ye Shu's character) immediately reminds me of my grandmother, who used to tell me Aqing Gang's stories every night when I was a child. Aqing is the most delightful surprise in this TV drama! It's so authentic! A Bao embodies countless stories my father told me since I was little. My uncle, who runs a hair salon on Nanjing Road, my older cousin who owns a chain of digital stores in Shanghai, and my uncle who started with a printing shop and eventually became a prominent figure in Shanghai's real estate industry... Shanghai Bund has so many A Baos and stories, coming and going, brought by time and eventually taken away by time. We need more TV dramas like this!
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Xiaomin Rocks1 year ago rating:9.6
Shanghai-born artist joins the Spring Festival Gala. A top-notch chef who can create stunning dishes even if you give him a piece of crap as the raw material. Not to mention the exquisite foundation provided by the original masterpiece of the Mao Dun Literature Prize. The standard set by Eyeglass King is always reliable, reaching the visual zenith of the TV drama. It's full of high energy without any dull moments or fillers. I'm so engrossed in watching the drama that I even fear missing important details while taking a bite of noodles, prompting me to hit the pause button.
Xiaogongzi1 year ago rating:9.9
As a fan of the original work, I'm giving it one star due to personal bias. For well-known reasons, at least half of the original story cannot be adapted into a TV series. Wong Kar-wai has captured and portrayed the visually appealing but limited portion of the story, omitting characters like Hu Sheng and Xiao Mao. It's visually pleasing, but that's about it. So, the relationship between the TV drama "Fanhua" and the book is like that of "Ashes of Time" and the book.
vObserver1 year ago rating:9.9
The dynamics between Baowang and the three women are absolutely captivating. The arguments and collaborations with Ling Zi in business, the mutual support and cooperation with Miss Wang, the complex relationship of rivalry and friendship with Li Li. These three storylines run parallel, and Baowang's subtle nuances and differences in front of different people are wonderfully portrayed. Whether it's familiarity or strangeness, it's evident at a glance. Well written and well acted.
Galway1 year ago rating:9.4
This drama is filled with so many memorable lines. From Chairman Bao's "You think you're eating lobster, but you're actually eating opportunities. Each lobster represents a chance. You're either networking or relying on others," to Ye Shu's "In a team, there should be someone watching their steps and someone looking ahead." The business world is like a battlefield without gunpowder, where even a slight misstep can result in a complete loss.
RachelRuiQiu1 year ago rating:9.5
What touches people is how Tao Tao is willing to risk everything to support A Bao, how Mr. Bao, with wealth and fame, still cares about bringing everyone along to make money, how Miss Wang is impatiently pushing Mr. Bao to progress, and how Ling Zi, despite not being able to see Mr. Bao, helps him repay all his debts. It's the genuine emotions in the smallest details that truly move people. Wong Kar-wai truly has a talent for depicting this.
LiuYiFei1 year ago rating:9.9
It's really good-looking! I'm not a fan of anyone in particular, but I was drawn in after enduring the first two episodes, and then I couldn't stop watching.
In Wong Kar-wai's bones, there's not only artistry but also a sense of brotherhood. I could see it from "The Ferryman," although that film didn't turn out well.
Blooming Flowers" undoubtedly incorporates various strengths and succeeds beautifully.
Liu Yuchen1 year ago rating:9.7
The number of episodes is reasonable, and the cast is full of talented actors who bring a sense of quality to the drama. It's not a superficial period drama. Wong Kar-wai is truly impressive as a director. The music score is also sophisticated. The background music that accompanies A Bao's car accident is perfectly fitting. It contrasts the soothing music with the intensity of the accident, creating a striking contrast.
YY1 year ago rating:9.7
I've been looking forward to this work for three years, and it's finally premiered. It truly embodies Wong Kar-wai's style, with each frame filled with the intoxicating glamour of old Shanghai. The pacing is fast, and the storyline of Boss Bao begins from the second episode. Even those who haven't read the original work don't need to worry about not understanding... I'll continue to follow it eagerly.
Western Wonder1 year ago rating:6.3
The anticipation was high, and so was the disappointment. You Ben Chang performed well, although Hu Ge was slightly overshadowed. However, some supporting roles did a good job. What was more disappointing was Ma Yi Li, who seemed a bit artificial, and Xin Zhi Lei, who appeared overly affected with only one expression. It felt like the sound wasn't recorded on set, and the audio sounded strange.
SunnySky1 year ago rating:9.9
The Shanghainese version is truly a pleasant surprise, and the plot is getting better and better. All the actors have truly given their best moments to this drama. Watching something by Wong Kar-wai is truly an enjoyment. I don't know what to say when comparing him to Guo Jingming. Wishing you happiness, and I'll support "Sunglasses" wholeheartedly.
WitheredMeow1 year ago rating:9.8
Ye Shu's sharp insights into stocks still resonate with me today, it's like a DNA reaction. Under his leadership, A Bao's understanding and practical experience of the entrepreneurial market at that time are filled with professional theories. The script draws upon real historical background and national policies, making it a thought-provoking watch.
Congkoubuka1 year ago rating:9.7
Indeed, the bond between people is nurtured through shared experiences. Bao Zong and Miss Wang formed a revolutionary friendship through their experience with the first foreign trade order. Similarly, Bao Zong and Li Li will establish a profound friendship due to the challenges they faced at Zhizhen Garden. Now, Li Li has friends on Huanghe Road!
Active Hao1 year ago rating:9.6
After watching all six episodes in one go, I gradually realized that it's a high-quality drama. The business warfare scenes are intense, and the storyline is complete and authentic. Especially when Boss Bao asked Fei Xiang to endorse the San Yang brand, it ignited the first spark of the year for Mr. Fan. It was truly spectacular.
AnhuoAa1 year ago rating:7
When will Chinese dramas stop making these kinds of plots where several women revolve around one man? I'm so tired of it, it's nauseating. Tang Yan's lip movements don't match the dialogue at all, it's really uncomfortable to watch. Hu Ge should just be with Chen Long directly, enough of this.
Tianye1 year ago rating:9.6
I love Li Li even more after knowing that she doesn't have anyone backing her up. It shows that she relies on her extraordinary courage and intelligence to make a living on Huanghe Road, just as she said to Min Min at the beginning, "To earn big money, you rely on your brain, not buttons.
Austin1 year ago rating:8.2
Wong Kar-wai directing 'Fan Hua' has fulfilled my wish. The rich and nostalgic atmosphere of old Shanghai, the stunning cheongsams and shawls, capturing the most authentic local customs with the most dazzling cinematography—I can't find another director who can captivate me like this.
LeopardPrint~1 year ago rating:8.6
Binge-watched ten episodes in one go. A drama that makes you want to keep watching is truly a rare gem, and the cinematography is beyond words.
As for the shortcomings: Some of the female characters in the show are constantly chattering and talking non-stop, which can be a bit annoying.
Lalala1 year ago rating:5.1
I expected this drama to be bad, but I never anticipated it would be this terrible. From the moment it started filming, I had high hopes, and every update got me excited. But when I actually sat down to watch this series, it was disjointed, fantastical, and lacked a solid foundation. Wong Kar-wai seems stuck in 90s Hong Kong, unable to grasp the essence of the 21st century or even the Shanghai of the 90s. The performances of the actors are lackluster. Hu Ge, Tang Yan, Ma Yi Li—none of them exhibit the passion for acting that they had when they were younger. Although their acting skills may have been somewhat raw and inexperienced back then, they still showed potential in embodying their characters. However, as they've grown older, they seem to have become trapped within their comfort zones, failing to understand that audiences want to see the essence of the characters, not the actors' self-indulgence. Whether it's Wong Kar-wai, Hu Ge, or Ma Yi Li, all of whom I used to admire greatly, it's difficult to express just how disappointed I am with the presentation of this series.
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BitterOrangeLeaf1 year ago rating:8.8
The pacing is fast, and the story has a strong sense of intrigue. The plot unfolds in a refreshing way, avoiding clichés. Starting with Mr. Bao's car accident, the conflicts and tensions in the story reach a climax. It naturally introduces the storylines of Commander Cai, Mr. Fan's humble plea for collaboration, and Li Li's repeated invitations for Mr. Bao to visit Zhi Zhen Garden. The intertwining of light and shadow depicts Mr. Bao's character from multiple dimensions. Especially remarkable is the tragic subplot of Fa Gen's stock market speculation leading to financial ruin. It's a rare gem in Chinese dramas.
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NoName1 year ago rating:8.7
8.0 points. It's still enjoyable and doesn't indulge in excessive self-expression. It caters well to the viewing habits of internet users nowadays. The dense plot developments and well-controlled pacing, along with the intriguing character relationships, are captivating. I initially only read less than 50 pages of the novel, but after watching 6 episodes of the drama, I felt the urge to reread the entire book.
MoE1 year ago rating:5.9
After just one episode, it's enough to discourage people. American dramas turn episodes into movies, while here in China, dramas are turning into TikTok-like short videos. Why don't you just add some more transitions using video editing software? And seriously, what's with the excessive use of slow-motion shots? Can we please refrain from overusing sunglasses in long narrative scenes?
Nan Nan1 year ago rating:9.7
The first episode was indeed not very good, scattered and fragmented. However, it started to get interesting from the second episode, just like what Teacher You Ben Chang said, "The best is yet to come." Each subsequent episode was more exciting than the last. Also, Tang Yan's performance this time is really good and quite impressive.
Belated1 year ago rating:9.8
The script sets up A Bao, a character full of ambition and determined to make a name for himself against all odds. It plunges him into conflicts and confronts him with love and hatred. With an extraordinary mindset and exceptional practical abilities, he shapes a strong and composed image. At the same time, occasional moments of solitude and silence deepen the depth of his character.
JustARobot_1 year ago rating:9.5
The portrayal of business stories in "Blooming Flowers" is incredibly realistic. After watching a few episodes, I can really empathize with Mr. Fan. He's going all out to establish the reputation of the San Yang brand in Shanghai. He has to deal with competitors, watch out for business partners, and even please the employees and subordinates of customers and distributors.
GentleWishes1 year ago rating:8.5
Hu Ge's acting skills and his stylish wardrobe perfectly capture the charm of Boss Bao. Just by going to Zhenzhen Garden and eating a plate of stir-fried beef noodles, he becomes a top influencer. I completely understand that mentality of following the crowd. To be honest, I also want to have a bowl of Boss Bao's beef noodles.
BattleCat1 year ago rating:7.7
Watching Xin Zhi Lei and Hu Ge compete with each other in being pretentious is making me uncomfortable. Even Hu Ge's handsome face can't save it. Surprisingly, Ma Yi Li and Tang Yan performed quite well. And that inexplicable background music and cinematography... OMG, it's a bit disastrous.
Gigi1 year ago rating:9.8
The daily chatter accompanied by intense business battles, depicting the lives of the people under the backdrop of reform and opening up, unfolds like a vivid painting. Every detail is filled with dynamism, whether it's ordinary life or entrepreneurial endeavors. This drama portrays it all in a captivating manner.
In Full Bloom" continues the tradition of "romantic and sentimental literature" represented by the Mandarin Ducks and Butterflies School in terms of its theme. The original novel has strange pauses and periods in its writing style, making the reading experience somewhat uncomfortable.
However, since the entire series was actually filmed in Shanghainese, from the perspective of "Black Cat, White Cat," it should still be recognized and encouraged. The attention, discussions, and even the interest in learning or revisiting Shanghainese sparked by "In Full Bloom" can be seen as a much-needed boost for this language that has essentially lost its functional vitality.
The melodrama of the screenwriter is so advanced that even the sophisticated cinematography can't save it. Even if we disregard the original work and forget the basic irrelevance between the plot and the original, the self-importance and pretentiousness of the screenwriter, which resembles "My Former Life," occasionally disgusts people.
Vulgarity is not necessarily a bad thing and, to some extent, it is the essence and charm of "Blooming Flowers" in the original work. However, the excessive reincarnation of Jack Sue and the women who love me like a wolf on Huanghe Road are absolutely not the essence of "Blooming Flowers.
After enduring the grand and exaggerated setup in the first few episodes, the excessive force gradually subsides, and the drama enters a different side of the 1990s business war. It's unlike any previous visual adaptations; it possesses the unique style of Wong Kar-wai's Shanghai in the 90s, depicting the era's trendsetters with a refreshing plot.
I look forward to the exciting storyline and the witty dialogues that faithfully capture the essence of the original work. Despite occasional vulgar and verbose descriptions, Wong Kar-wai's adaptation is indeed a fleshed-out rendition, leaving a lasting impression.
Mixed feelings. I love the classic directorial style of Wong Kar-wai, but Hu Ge seems a bit unsuited for the acting style that Wong prefers. If it weren't for Wong Kar-wai's involvement, I would strongly criticize this drama, even giving it less than half a star.
Overall, it doesn't match the atmosphere of 1990s Shanghai, nor does it capture the essence of the original novel. While watching it, I kept questioning what on earth I was seeing. Perhaps it's more suitable for those who haven't read the book.
However, maybe everyone should just read the original work instead.
Everything is great except for the weak plot. It takes perseverance to even continue watching the first few episodes. Are all those flashy techniques just a cover-up for the flaws in the storyline? But this drama isn't a textbook, and the audience isn't a class of film students.
The plot being poorly crafted renders everything else futile. If Wong Kar-wai wasn't credited, then the audience owes Chen Kaige an apology. After all, when it comes to playing with art, who is better than whom?
Before it aired, I thought it was a spy drama, but then I realized it was set in the 1990s. It's such a noisy drama, with so many arguments and high-pitched tones. My ears are numb from listening, to the point where I have to adjust the volume whenever Ma Yi Li appears on screen.
The visuals and colors are really good, and Xin Zhi Lei reaches new heights of beauty in this drama. I honestly didn't realize she was this beautiful before.
For now, I would give it three stars. The pretense is truly pretentious, and the mystification feels genuine. However, there are some inexplicable aspects, and the dark color palette is visually tiring.
I haven't watched Wong Kar-wai's movies before, so I'm not sure if it's always like this. I'll have to see if I should add or subtract stars.
As for Hu Ge... his acting is still the same, reminiscent of Ming Tai...
This TV drama is so on point. It's exquisitely crafted, and the answer to how intricate a drama can be is presented in a profusion of blossoms. The cinematography, visuals, and atmosphere are truly amazing.
With Hu Ge, Ma Yi Li, Tang Yan, and Xin Zhi Lei, it's both handsome and beautiful. It delivers a satisfying sense of business competition and profound character development. It's absolutely brilliant.
Bao Zong's character has truly come to life, and Hu Ge's acting and appearance have both exploded in this role! In the flashback scenes, Hu Ge perfectly captures the innocence of A Bao and later the mature and astute demeanor of the slick-haired Bao Zong.
Under the aesthetic lighting and cinematography of Director Wang, Bao Zong's character instantly becomes three-dimensional.
I deeply understood the meaning behind Ye Shu's words, "Always leave yourself an out." Thankfully, Li Li intervened during the Three Sheep Brand business competition and alerted Bao Zong about the presence of high-quality imitations in the market.
This prevented Bao Zong from unnecessary trouble, and in return, he wholeheartedly and tirelessly helped her.
Even though I've only watched a little bit, I still want to give it a 5-star rating just because it's Wong Kar-wai. It suddenly brings back memories of my bookish phase when I used to romanticize everything, haha.
Also, the "Blueberry Night" that I've watched repeatedly during New Year's Eve, should I include it tomorrow night as well?
Excellent in every aspect. It suits my taste perfectly. I've already started rewatching the first ten episodes, especially after finishing the tenth episode. I truly want to exclaim: This is a masterpiece! Art is always subjective, so it's better to appreciate and judge it for oneself.
I say "Fanhua" is great, and it truly is!
Wong Kar-wai, the director, truly lives up to his reputation. The visuals are exquisite, and each shot is unique, showcasing the actors' beauty to the fullest. It's a visual feast! It's been a while since I've seen such a beautifully crafted TV drama.
The cinematography in "Blooming Flowers" is absolutely amazing!
How to create a pile of golden dog poop that stinks to everyone? "Flowers of Prosperity" provides the answer. It can only be said that Wong Kar-wai's reputation is indeed significant, and even people in China who don't watch movies know him.
However, what kind of role Wong Kar-wai plays in this is truly questionable.
After finishing "Blooming Flowers," I felt like I traveled back to the golden era of Shanghai, experiencing that unique atmosphere and emotions. The visuals and music were stunning, captivating me completely. If there were a time machine, I would genuinely love to go back to that era and experience it firsthand.
I like the open and straightforward conflicts in this business war. The portrayal of the conflicts between Lu Mei Lin and Li Li is deeply compelling. The series skips the investigative process and focuses directly on the methods used by Li Li and Boss Bao to handle situations, which is quite satisfying and enjoyable.
I've watched a few episodes and couldn't resist binge-watching it. The drama has a strong sense of the era, and the relationships between A Bao, Ye Shu, Tao Tao, Miss Wang, and Ling Zi are portrayed really well.
I'm deeply moved by the genuine emotions depicted in the series.
Is the narrator there just to pass the censorship or because they think the audience won't understand? Is it a Shanghai version of "The Great Era" or a Hong Kong version of "The Great Shanghai"?
If someone else had directed it, I would have given it one star for sure. But with "Sunglasses King" at the helm, it somehow feels reasonable. Hmm... I must admit, Ma Yi Li's style is the most authentic.
The polarizing reviews of this TV drama are unexpectedly interesting. Upon careful consideration, I realized that the main reasons for the negative reviews are: firstly, significant deviations from the original work; secondly, a stark contrast to the nostalgic image of the hardship-filled 90s that viewers have been accustomed to; and thirdly, a resistance or inability to accept the ambiguous filming techniques and narrative style, which some may consider as unnecessarily mysterious.
As for the reasons behind my full-star rating, they are rather simple and straightforward: firstly, I haven't read the original work, so I don't have any preconceived notions or filters based on it; secondly, the lavish and stylish visuals, scenes, characters, and storyline all meet my expectations of the ceiling that mainland Chinese dramas can reach; and thirdly, I'm delighted to see a film director who sticks to his own style, and in a way that the general audience can understand, presents his interpretation of the golden era in a TV drama.
I am grateful to the "Blooming Flowers" team for delivering a well-crafted and meticulously produced mainland Chinese drama in this challenging year of 2023. I look forward to a splendid 2024 where we can also enjoy a blossoming journey with Director Bao!
Although it's said that the production team collected a lot of vintage items from that era, it seems like Wong Kar-wai didn't intend to make a "period version" of the drama.
His "Blossoms" feels more like a dazzling and elusive dream, filled with contradictory and chaotic vibes. The majority of the scenes are set at night, using the interplay of light and shadow, along with splendid neon lights, to weave a scene of extravagance.
It blends elements of urban martial arts, gangsters, Republican-era legends, and espionage narratives, yet it also resembles the vibrant colors of spring. That's why only filters that enhance the beauty to an almost distorted level can create the required dreamy atmosphere for the story.
If there's one drawback, it's the cast; they don't quite fit in smoothly with the overall production.
While watching, I always tried to convince myself that this is a wuxia genre, a light-hearted story, and not to take it seriously. But I'm sorry, I couldn't do it. Countless people were deceived in that wave, whether it was by high-interest loans, framed by peers, a single government order, or simply unlucky.
They lost their families, their possessions, and it also meant losing the right to choose their remaining years. Some lost limbs, some lost their lives, thrown into iron cages and sunk into the sea.
This drama portrays the cruel accumulation and exploitation of capital as a tribute to the era, which is intolerable. What's even more heartbreaking is that these events happened only two or three decades ago, yet the new generation seems to have no awareness of what occurred.
Therefore, the most terrifying thing is mutual forgetting.
It possesses the appearance of high-end American dramas, but it's all show and no substance. It's pretentious, with top-notch production design, cinematography, post-production, and the best actors in the country.
Unfortunately, all of these resources are wasted on a mediocre commercial story. If only it had a script like "Billions" or "Succession," then it might be worth watching.
Who wants to see an overacting old man trying to teach a stoic pretty boy? And they even made it 30 episodes long! It lacks an engaging plot, and any flashy techniques used are simply a waste of the film and television resources.
The Chinese directors and screenwriters don't live up to the standards set by the production teams. It's truly regrettable.
It's so good, seriously! The appearance of Aqing (Ye Shu's character) immediately reminds me of my grandmother, who used to tell me Aqing Gang's stories every night when I was a child. Aqing is the most delightful surprise in this TV drama!
It's so authentic! A Bao embodies countless stories my father told me since I was little. My uncle, who runs a hair salon on Nanjing Road, my older cousin who owns a chain of digital stores in Shanghai, and my uncle who started with a printing shop and eventually became a prominent figure in Shanghai's real estate industry...
Shanghai Bund has so many A Baos and stories, coming and going, brought by time and eventually taken away by time. We need more TV dramas like this!
Shanghai-born artist joins the Spring Festival Gala. A top-notch chef who can create stunning dishes even if you give him a piece of crap as the raw material. Not to mention the exquisite foundation provided by the original masterpiece of the Mao Dun Literature Prize.
The standard set by Eyeglass King is always reliable, reaching the visual zenith of the TV drama. It's full of high energy without any dull moments or fillers. I'm so engrossed in watching the drama that I even fear missing important details while taking a bite of noodles, prompting me to hit the pause button.
As a fan of the original work, I'm giving it one star due to personal bias. For well-known reasons, at least half of the original story cannot be adapted into a TV series.
Wong Kar-wai has captured and portrayed the visually appealing but limited portion of the story, omitting characters like Hu Sheng and Xiao Mao. It's visually pleasing, but that's about it.
So, the relationship between the TV drama "Fanhua" and the book is like that of "Ashes of Time" and the book.
The dynamics between Baowang and the three women are absolutely captivating. The arguments and collaborations with Ling Zi in business, the mutual support and cooperation with Miss Wang, the complex relationship of rivalry and friendship with Li Li.
These three storylines run parallel, and Baowang's subtle nuances and differences in front of different people are wonderfully portrayed. Whether it's familiarity or strangeness, it's evident at a glance. Well written and well acted.
This drama is filled with so many memorable lines. From Chairman Bao's "You think you're eating lobster, but you're actually eating opportunities. Each lobster represents a chance. You're either networking or relying on others," to Ye Shu's "In a team, there should be someone watching their steps and someone looking ahead." The business world is like a battlefield without gunpowder, where even a slight misstep can result in a complete loss.
What touches people is how Tao Tao is willing to risk everything to support A Bao, how Mr. Bao, with wealth and fame, still cares about bringing everyone along to make money, how Miss Wang is impatiently pushing Mr.
Bao to progress, and how Ling Zi, despite not being able to see Mr. Bao, helps him repay all his debts. It's the genuine emotions in the smallest details that truly move people.
Wong Kar-wai truly has a talent for depicting this.
It's really good-looking! I'm not a fan of anyone in particular, but I was drawn in after enduring the first two episodes, and then I couldn't stop watching.
In Wong Kar-wai's bones, there's not only artistry but also a sense of brotherhood.
I could see it from "The Ferryman," although that film didn't turn out well.
Blooming Flowers" undoubtedly incorporates various strengths and succeeds beautifully.
The number of episodes is reasonable, and the cast is full of talented actors who bring a sense of quality to the drama. It's not a superficial period drama. Wong Kar-wai is truly impressive as a director.
The music score is also sophisticated. The background music that accompanies A Bao's car accident is perfectly fitting. It contrasts the soothing music with the intensity of the accident, creating a striking contrast.
I've been looking forward to this work for three years, and it's finally premiered. It truly embodies Wong Kar-wai's style, with each frame filled with the intoxicating glamour of old Shanghai. The pacing is fast, and the storyline of Boss Bao begins from the second episode.
Even those who haven't read the original work don't need to worry about not understanding... I'll continue to follow it eagerly.
The anticipation was high, and so was the disappointment. You Ben Chang performed well, although Hu Ge was slightly overshadowed. However, some supporting roles did a good job.
What was more disappointing was Ma Yi Li, who seemed a bit artificial, and Xin Zhi Lei, who appeared overly affected with only one expression. It felt like the sound wasn't recorded on set, and the audio sounded strange.
The Shanghainese version is truly a pleasant surprise, and the plot is getting better and better. All the actors have truly given their best moments to this drama. Watching something by Wong Kar-wai is truly an enjoyment.
I don't know what to say when comparing him to Guo Jingming. Wishing you happiness, and I'll support "Sunglasses" wholeheartedly.
Ye Shu's sharp insights into stocks still resonate with me today, it's like a DNA reaction. Under his leadership, A Bao's understanding and practical experience of the entrepreneurial market at that time are filled with professional theories.
The script draws upon real historical background and national policies, making it a thought-provoking watch.
Indeed, the bond between people is nurtured through shared experiences. Bao Zong and Miss Wang formed a revolutionary friendship through their experience with the first foreign trade order.
Similarly, Bao Zong and Li Li will establish a profound friendship due to the challenges they faced at Zhizhen Garden. Now, Li Li has friends on Huanghe Road!
After watching all six episodes in one go, I gradually realized that it's a high-quality drama. The business warfare scenes are intense, and the storyline is complete and authentic. Especially when Boss Bao asked Fei Xiang to endorse the San Yang brand, it ignited the first spark of the year for Mr.
Fan. It was truly spectacular.
When will Chinese dramas stop making these kinds of plots where several women revolve around one man? I'm so tired of it, it's nauseating. Tang Yan's lip movements don't match the dialogue at all, it's really uncomfortable to watch.
Hu Ge should just be with Chen Long directly, enough of this.
I love Li Li even more after knowing that she doesn't have anyone backing her up. It shows that she relies on her extraordinary courage and intelligence to make a living on Huanghe Road, just as she said to Min Min at the beginning, "To earn big money, you rely on your brain, not buttons.
Wong Kar-wai directing 'Fan Hua' has fulfilled my wish. The rich and nostalgic atmosphere of old Shanghai, the stunning cheongsams and shawls, capturing the most authentic local customs with the most dazzling cinematography—I can't find another director who can captivate me like this.
Binge-watched ten episodes in one go. A drama that makes you want to keep watching is truly a rare gem, and the cinematography is beyond words.
As for the shortcomings: Some of the female characters in the show are constantly chattering and talking non-stop, which can be a bit annoying.
I expected this drama to be bad, but I never anticipated it would be this terrible. From the moment it started filming, I had high hopes, and every update got me excited. But when I actually sat down to watch this series, it was disjointed, fantastical, and lacked a solid foundation.
Wong Kar-wai seems stuck in 90s Hong Kong, unable to grasp the essence of the 21st century or even the Shanghai of the 90s. The performances of the actors are lackluster. Hu Ge, Tang Yan, Ma Yi Li—none of them exhibit the passion for acting that they had when they were younger.
Although their acting skills may have been somewhat raw and inexperienced back then, they still showed potential in embodying their characters. However, as they've grown older, they seem to have become trapped within their comfort zones, failing to understand that audiences want to see the essence of the characters, not the actors' self-indulgence.
Whether it's Wong Kar-wai, Hu Ge, or Ma Yi Li, all of whom I used to admire greatly, it's difficult to express just how disappointed I am with the presentation of this series.
The pacing is fast, and the story has a strong sense of intrigue. The plot unfolds in a refreshing way, avoiding clichés. Starting with Mr. Bao's car accident, the conflicts and tensions in the story reach a climax.
It naturally introduces the storylines of Commander Cai, Mr. Fan's humble plea for collaboration, and Li Li's repeated invitations for Mr. Bao to visit Zhi Zhen Garden. The intertwining of light and shadow depicts Mr.
Bao's character from multiple dimensions. Especially remarkable is the tragic subplot of Fa Gen's stock market speculation leading to financial ruin. It's a rare gem in Chinese dramas.
8.0 points. It's still enjoyable and doesn't indulge in excessive self-expression. It caters well to the viewing habits of internet users nowadays. The dense plot developments and well-controlled pacing, along with the intriguing character relationships, are captivating.
I initially only read less than 50 pages of the novel, but after watching 6 episodes of the drama, I felt the urge to reread the entire book.
After just one episode, it's enough to discourage people. American dramas turn episodes into movies, while here in China, dramas are turning into TikTok-like short videos. Why don't you just add some more transitions using video editing software?
And seriously, what's with the excessive use of slow-motion shots? Can we please refrain from overusing sunglasses in long narrative scenes?
The first episode was indeed not very good, scattered and fragmented. However, it started to get interesting from the second episode, just like what Teacher You Ben Chang said, "The best is yet to come." Each subsequent episode was more exciting than the last.
Also, Tang Yan's performance this time is really good and quite impressive.
The script sets up A Bao, a character full of ambition and determined to make a name for himself against all odds. It plunges him into conflicts and confronts him with love and hatred. With an extraordinary mindset and exceptional practical abilities, he shapes a strong and composed image.
At the same time, occasional moments of solitude and silence deepen the depth of his character.
The portrayal of business stories in "Blooming Flowers" is incredibly realistic. After watching a few episodes, I can really empathize with Mr. Fan. He's going all out to establish the reputation of the San Yang brand in Shanghai.
He has to deal with competitors, watch out for business partners, and even please the employees and subordinates of customers and distributors.
Hu Ge's acting skills and his stylish wardrobe perfectly capture the charm of Boss Bao. Just by going to Zhenzhen Garden and eating a plate of stir-fried beef noodles, he becomes a top influencer. I completely understand that mentality of following the crowd.
To be honest, I also want to have a bowl of Boss Bao's beef noodles.
Watching Xin Zhi Lei and Hu Ge compete with each other in being pretentious is making me uncomfortable. Even Hu Ge's handsome face can't save it. Surprisingly, Ma Yi Li and Tang Yan performed quite well.
And that inexplicable background music and cinematography... OMG, it's a bit disastrous.
The daily chatter accompanied by intense business battles, depicting the lives of the people under the backdrop of reform and opening up, unfolds like a vivid painting. Every detail is filled with dynamism, whether it's ordinary life or entrepreneurial endeavors.
This drama portrays it all in a captivating manner.