Episode 1 recap: The Breakdown of Cheng Miao Miao and Li Si's Friendship
In the first episode, set in the vibrant year of 1997, He Ping Town is buzzing with the joy of Hong Kong's return to China, creating a special atmosphere in every household. Seventeen-year-old Jia Dai Yu harbors a deep infatuation for Wu Da Ge and, in a moment of impulsiveness, steals a factory vehicle, dreaming of eloping with him to escape reality. However, fate intervenes as the car breaks down midway, forcing Jia Dai Yu to confront the harsh truth that her unrequited love is merely a fantasy.
Simultaneously, Jia Dai Yu's daughter, Cheng Ya Ya, at the age of seventeen, embarks on her own rebellious journey. Unlike her mother's direct approach, Cheng Ya Ya's choice is surprising—she becomes fascinated with tomb raiding. This revelation shocks both Cheng Peng Fei and Jia Dai Yu, leading to chaos in the household.
Meanwhile, Cheng Miao Miao, a high school girl returning home from school, enjoys the novelty of a borrowed amplifier from her mother but almost burns herself in her eagerness. She initially intends to report her brother Cheng Ya Ya for sneaking off to the arcade, but her parents are too engrossed in the amplifier to pay attention to her complaints.
Li Si, the source of exasperation for both Cheng sisters, gets caught up in another debacle involving the arcade. A surprise inspection by Teacher Xiao reveals Li Si's "secret base" at the arcade. Just as a major confrontation is about to unfold, an unexpected power outage becomes his saving grace. However, returning home, he is met not with peace but with another family storm.
Out of jealousy over her mother's favoritism towards her brother, Cheng Miao Miao devises a plan to use Li Si to "get back at" Cheng Ya Ya. She persuades Li Si to testify against Cheng Ya Ya, claiming she frequently visits the arcade, but Li Si firmly refuses. At Cheng Ya Ya's "struggle session," Cheng Miao Miao intends to show off her power but inadvertently becomes the target of her mother’s wrath.
Teacher Xiao's harsh punishment forces Li Si to confront reality, but he cleverly alleviates the awkwardness using a self-reflection essay written by Cheng Miao Miao. Unfortunately, this brief respite doesn’t last long; Cheng Miao Miao’s betrayal is soon uncovered, resulting in her being seen as a "traitor" in Li Si's eyes.
In this youthful farce, each character seeks their place in their own way. Jia Dai Yu, scarred by past pain, harbors a deep disdain for "traitors." Cheng Miao Miao wrestles with jealousy and resentment, while Cheng Ya Ya explores the world in an almost absurd manner. As for Li Si, he exists as both a victim and an observer, adding complexity and authenticity to the story.
As the narrative unfolds, we witness the confusion and impulsiveness of adolescence, the intricate and delicate nature of family relationships, and the entangled emotions of connection and reconciliation. Ultimately, whether it’s Jia Dai Yu, Cheng Miao Miao, or Cheng Ya Ya, each will grow through this youthful trial, learning to confront their inner selves and choices. Meanwhile, Li Si will also find his own place and direction amid the chaos.
Comments(Episode 1)