Comparing the Popular Chinese TV Dramas 'Fanhua' and 'I Know I Love You'

The dramas "Fanhua" and "I Know I Love You" were aired almost simultaneously. "Fanhua" features the talented actor Hu Ge as the lead, with many Shanghai-born actors such as Ma Yili, Tang Yan, and Xin Zhilei joining the cast. "I Know I Love You," on the other hand, is led by Zhang Wanyi and co-stars Sun Yi, presenting a modern idol drama. Both dramas have gained considerable popularity on the broadcasting platforms, with one ranking first and the other ranking second. Upon watching both dramas simultaneously, my immediate impression is that one is enjoyable while the other is less appealing.

Rather than following a linear storytelling approach, the TV dramas rely heavily on flashbacks to depict the characters' past and present lives, resulting in a somewhat scattered narrative. Such a storytelling technique might work in movies, but it becomes problematic when employed in TV dramas. In terms of scene construction, director Wong Kar-wai has meticulously recreated the exquisite setting of 1930s Shanghai. However, the character and environmental designs don't quite resemble the Shanghai of the 1990s; instead, they bear a resemblance to the foreign settlements of old Shanghai.

Outfits like Xin Zhilei's backless dress clearly belong to old Shanghai. As for "I Know I Love You," although it involves moral ambiguity, it offers an intriguing story. The drama is a remake of the Korean series "Spring Night" and revolves around a forbidden love affair. The male lead is divorced and raising a child on his own, while the female lead has been in a long-term relationship without marriage.

"Spring Night" adopts a slow-paced rhythm, depicting how two individuals meet the right person at the wrong time and overcome psychological barriers to be together. Some argue that the male lead, Zhao Jin, is morally questionable because he shows care for the female lead despite knowing she has a boyfriend. It seems like he is trying to seize the opportunity. Fortunately, the female lead remains rational and clear-headed, not falling into his rhythm. However, due to her boyfriend's indifference, her feelings gradually lean towards the male lead.

Unlike typical urban dramas, the main characters in this drama don't engage in a love-hate relationship but rather approach their feelings directly. This fast-paced approach is more suitable for viewers' taste. Currently, the drama leaves a decent impression and is worth following. Have you watched these two dramas? What are your thoughts on them?