By: http://seoulinlovenow.blogspot.com

Title: Fireworks of My Heart 我的人间烟火

Genre: Romance, Action, Emergency/Medical
Broadcast Year: 2023
Country: Mainland

Synopsis:

Growing up, Song Yan and Xu Qin were the best of friends. But as they grew older, their families began to see their friendship in an unfavorable light. Unwilling to allow their relationship to go any farther, Song Yan and Xu Qin were forced apart by their families, never to see each other again. In the ten years since their forced separation, both Song Yan and Xu Qin have worked hard to build the life they’ve always wanted. As fire chief, Song Yan has dedicated his life to saving others. Oddly enough, Xu Qin has also made it her life’s work to save others as an emergency doctor. Though working in entirely different fields, it was only a matter of time before fate stepped in to reunite the former friends. Brought together by their work, Song Yan and Xu Qin aren't exactly thrilled to be reunited once again. Working side-by-side, it’s easy to recognize the growth each has made over the years, but there’s still so much Xu Qin and Song Yan to work through if they’re going to turn this new relationship of theirs into something more. Do they have what it takes to overcome the obstacles before them or is their current relationship destined to be as fleeting as the last? (Source: Viki) Adapted from the web novel “Waiting for You in a City" (一座城，在等你) by Jiu Yue Xi (玖月晞).

Remark:   It has been awhile since a C-drama make such an impact on me. Fireworks of My Heart is not just any romance drama but it also portrays the noble life and work of the Fire Fighters, Medical Staff and Emergency Rescue Team in the Mainland China; having to fight against natural disasters, etc. And of course the touching story of Song Yan and Xu Qin, is not just any typical love story. 

While watching this drama, I can really feel the love that Song Yan has for his Xu Qin. He is literally using his life to love her, working hard to be good enough to be with her and to eventually marry her. Somehow the chemistry of both Yang Yang and Wang Chu Ran was marvelous! I feel that Song Yan actually loves Xu Qin more than she does, not that she does not love him, but Song Yan loves her more. And I was close to tears in the midst of watching the drama with many touching moments and scenes. I was especially touched with the last episode when Song Yan rescue Xu Qin's mother from the car trap, despite what her mother has done to him for the past decade.

I have watched many of Yang Yang's dramas, but this character of Song Yan, a manly Fire Fighter who wholeheartedly loves his woman and always have a part of her in his heart, yet do not openly make known to her but quietly making sacrifices for her, really makes an impression as it is different from the previous clean cut, smart and blue collar characters he played. 

And there was a scene when Song Yan and Xu Qin finally going to reconcile after 10 years, and they asked each other what has changed over the years. In the past, Song Yan cannot take spicy food while Xu Qin loves spicy food. After 10 years, it is the opposite, Song Yan can take spicy food now while Xu Qin no longer likes spicy food. This shows how much they are willing to change for each other. Song Yan may not be as well to do as Xu Qin's family, but I feel that the love and sacrifice he gave to Xu Qin is priceless. What is important to a woman, is that her man will love her no matter what and will always be there for her. Money cannot buy all these. The theme song Midsummer Farewell 盛夏的告别 by Tia Ray 袁娅维 very well depicts the story of both Song Yan and Xu Qi. 

Interestingly, this drama was based in the City of Yancheng 盐城 (Also known as the 'Salt City'). Yancheng is part of Jiang Su China, and it is such a beautiful city! And I really love

the house that Song Yan bought for Xu Qin, the house with a roof top garden that he promised to give her, and design it with his heart. A cozy home with all his love.

If you have not watch Fireworks of My Heart, please go watch it now - You definitely will not regret it!

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By: http://seoulinlovenow.blogspot.com

Title: Crush 原来我很爱你 
Genre: Romance
Broadcast Year: 2021
Country: Mainland

Synopsis:

Sang Wu Yan, a college senior, dreams of becoming a broadcaster. She works as an assistant at a radio station and likes a mysterious songwriter with the name "Yi Jin". She fell in love at first sight after a chance meeting with Su Nian Qin and later discovers that he is visually impaired. Layer by layer, Sang Wu Yan peels off Su Nian Qin's elusive, arrogant and indifferent shell due to his broken family. She then learns that he was in fact the talented 'Yi Jin'. Their interactions lead to a sweeping romance but the couple finds themselves in a tug of war between their hard-earned happiness and a fear of loss. (Source: Baidu, ChineseDrama.info) ~~ Adapted from the novel "So I Love You Very Much" (原来我很爱你), originally titled "Qin He Yi Kan" (衾何以堪) by Mu Fu Sheng (木浮生).

Remark:

I have to say that recently there are quite a lot of Korean craze going on. I have finished watching Squid Game and really enjoy BTS songs! Life is full of ups and downs, and in the midst of dealing with Covid, we just have to make ourselves happier, isn't it? But lately I have been more of watching C-dramas instead, and there are quite a few good ones that had 'melted my heart'. Crush is definitely one of them and also one of my personal favorites. I was recommended to this C-drama by a friend and it is surprisingly remarkable! 

A very simple yet not so typical story line. There is no annoying second male/female lead(s) that is trying to break up the couple, nor is there any typical contract marriage plot. I am familiar with Wang Peng but not so with Evan Lin, however, after watching this drama, I am really into Evan Lin for now, haha. His acting is good considered 'Crush' is only his second drama. Though there is still room for improvement.

I particularly like the simple story of true love with the characters - Su Nian Qin (Evan Lin) and Sang Wu Yan (Wang Peng). The whole drama is very heartwarming and touching, with marvelous chemistry of both leads. I am looking foward to more dramas of Evan Lin. Did I mention that he is also quite a good singer? He sang the OST of Crush.

I love how the Director ended the drama series with Su Nian Qin thanking Sang Wu Yan for finding back his old self. And with a thank you note for the crew as well as the viewers.

“Thank you all those who worked hard on 'Crush'. Thank you to the audience who enjoyed and supported this series. Thank you for finding us.”

This ending note reminds us to constantly find back ourselves in the midst of our busy life. I am so glad that I have found this c-drama. If you are looking for a simple, no frills and happy drama – this is the one.

 

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By: http://seoulinlovenow.blogspot.com

Title: Time Flies and You are Here 雁归西窗月
Genre: Romance, Period
Broadcast Year: 2021
Country: Mainland


Synopsis:

Their destinies were tied together due to a contract marriage. She's an ordinary girl who believes that woman have a right to an education too. He is a prince who needs to live up to his reputation of being lazy and unskilled. Xie Xiao Man unintentionally offended Zhao Xiao Qian, the famous Julu Prince of the Wu Jiang manor. Because of a set up, the two enter into a contract marriage leaving Xiao Man no choice but to marry into the royal family. 

 Expected to remain as an insignificant prince his entire life, can Zhao Xiao Qian become a general with the courage and capability to protect his country? Despite coming from ordinary beginnings, Xie Xiao Man is also determined to find her path. From clashing endlessly to gradually opening up to each other, Zhao Xiao Qian and Xie Xiao Man overcome many obstacles together as they learn to love and support each other as husband and wife.

(Source: ChineseDrama.Info)

 

Remark:

I like how the character of Zhao Xiao Qian (Joseph Zeng) evolves from a happy-go-lucky duke to a responsible and loving general to his people and beloved Xie Xiao Man (Liang Jie), in Time Flies and You are Here. 

 I am particularly impressed with Joseph Zeng's acting in this c-drama, hence leading me to watch his current c-drama – Rebirth for You, starring together with Ju JingYi.

 

 

 

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By: http://seoulinlovenow.blogspot.com

Title: To Love 最初的相遇，最后的别离
Genre: Romance, Thriller
Broadcast Year: 2020/2021
Country: Mainland


Synopsis:

To Love is a suspenseful love story in which the fate of several young people with different backgrounds and charms are entangled in two unpredictable twists and turns.

Yan Jin (Kenny Lin Geng Xin), a businessman and former anti-narcotics policeman, decides to investigate a drug-trafficking case that caused the death of his close friend.

He infiltrates into the organization as an undercover cop, and gets to know Ji Xiao Ou (Gai Cass). This causes Zhan Yu (Li Qing), who has a one-sided crush on her, to be jealous. However, Zhan Yu was murdered and Yan Jin becomes primary suspect.

With Ji Xiao Ou's help, Yan Jin sets out to clear his name and to investigate the murder of his close friend.

(Source: Dramawiki, Baidu)

 

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By: http://seoulinlovenow.blogspot.com

Title: Love in Time 约定期间爱上你
Genre: Romance, Comedy
Broadcast Year: 2020
Country: Mainland


Synopsis:


Su Jian An (Starring Serena Cheng), an unknown novelist, falls into an unspeakable family industry inheritance crisis in order to continue her dream of writing novels.

Reluctantly, she signs a “contract marriage” with Lu Bo Yan (Starring Ming Ren), a junior high school enemy who has become a bigwig in the investment industry.

The two people with completely different temperaments and childhood misunderstandings start a “sweet cohabitation war” under the same roof.

At the same time, Lu Bo Yan does everything possible to intervene in Su Jian An’s novel writing, frequently trying to find inspiration for himself.

The two people continue to collide during their cohabitation and creative journey, pass through numerous obstacles, finally paving the way to success in love and in their careers.

Love in Time is adapted from Heng Wen Xue’s novel “Lu Shao’s New Wife in a Warm Marriage”. It tells the story of Lu Bo Yan and Su Jian An’s life trajectories intersecting and finally coming together due to various fates.

Love in Time theme songs, Heartbeat 心动合约 and Promise 约定 .

(Source: Cdramalove.com)

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By: http://seoulinlovenow.blogspot.com

Title: General's Lady 将军家的小娘子
Genre: Ancient, Romance, Military
Broadcast Year: 2020
Country: Mainland


Synopsis:


A notorious general and an aristocrat's daughter hold each other's hands to spend a lifetime together whilst protecting what's precious to them. Shen Jin (Starring Tang Min) grew up in luxury as a member of the royal family. After the emperor decrees an arranged marriage, she is married off to a general who defends the borders. 

Although she falls in love with her husband, general Chu Xiu Ming (Starring Caesar Wu), at first sight, she finds it difficult to blend in. Shen Jin gradually sheds her spoiled and entitled attitude and becomes a force to be reckoned with. With her unconventional methods, she solves many of the army's problems and comes to earn their trust and respect.

However, there has been a shakeup in the imperial courts and the Chu army becomes a target. Shen Jin's parents are held hostage against their will while Shen Jin receives orders to act as a spy for the emperor. Can the married couple weather the storms to find happiness and peace?

General's Lady is adapted from a novel of the same name by Yan Bo Jiang Nan.

The drama's theme song 为一人 is performed by Caesar Wu and Tang Min.

(Source: ChineseDrama.info) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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By: http://seoulinlovenow.blogspot.com

Title: Arsenal Military Academy
烈火军校
Genre: Republican, Romance, Military
Broadcast Year: 2019
Country: Mainland


Synopsis:


Arsenal Military Academy is set in the republican era. Xie Xiang (Starring Bai Lu) joins the army in her brother's stead by pretending to be a man. She becomes classmates with the wealthy Gu Yan Zhen (Starring Xu Kai) and the calm Shen Jun Shan. Through their rigorous training, the three form a bond to become comrades, all while Xie Xiang tries to keep her cover. After many incidents, Xie Xiang earns the respect of her peers and superiors. She also becomes the object of affections of the two men in her lives. The Japanese military stations more forces in the Northeast region causing the young heroes to engage in battle as they uncover a big conspiracy.

(Source: ChineseDrama.info)

Comment:

Arsenal Military Academy is a must watch drama if you are a fan of Xu Kai and Bai Lu from C-drama, The Legends. Apart from this delightful pairing, the other casts in this drama are equally worth watching; with eye candy, such as Toby Lee, Hong Yao, Wang Yizhe, Meng En, Liu Runnan and Liu Sibo, etc. 

There are many hilarious happenings in the military academy and the story also ultimately have the students uncover a dangerous conspiracy involving the Japanese occupiers, the Chinese resistance, and the past royal descendants of the defunct Qing Dynasty.

The character of Xie Xiang is a very gutsy and independent girl, not your typical weak female lead. I really find her very “man” in this drama, definitely not someone waiting for the male lead to protect her.

Xie Xiang looks really handsome with her short hair and male outfit, in fact, I like her better in her male outfit in this drama, compared to her in feminine dresses. And not to mention the sexy and humorous Gu Yan Zhen, very protective and caring to Xie Xiang. I totally fall in love with Xu Kai in this drama!

I also like the pairing of Shen Ting Bai (Starring Hong Yao) and Qu Man Ting (Starring Wu Jiayi). Shen Ting Bai's cool character and Qu Man Ting's hilarious mannerism makes a wonderful couple. 

I cannot help but notice the elegant dresses of Qu Man Ting, wonderfully tailored for the historical 1920s fashion style. Although the costumes of Qu Man Ting were supposedly meant for a century ago epoch, I am pleasantly surprised that some of her fashion styles could even be suitable for present day. They are just fascinating and beautiful.


One of the soundtracks, “Enter a Dream 入梦”performed by Xu Kai and Bai Lu.

 

 

 

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By: http://seoulinlovenow.blogspot.com

Title: Our Times 我的少女時代
Genre: Romance, Comedy, School
Broadcast Year: 2015
Country: Taiwan

Synopsis:

Our Times opens in the present day, where Lin Truly (Starring Joe Chen) is an ordinary office worker who leads a stressful life. Her name, "Truly", literally means "sincere of heart", reflecting her hard-working nature which often gets her ridiculed by her younger subordinates. Dejected, she listens to a cassette recording of an old Andy Lau song. This brings her back to her high school days, when she was an ordinary high-school girl, who idolized Lau and lived a simple, care-free life. She had a crush on Ouyang Fei-Fan, (Starring Dino Lee), the school's most popular male student, and had two good girl friends.

One day, seventeen-year-old Lin (Starring Vivian Sung) receives a chain letter, warning her of impending doom if she does not pass the message on. Naively, she passes it on to Hsu Tai-yu (Starring Darren Wang), the school's notorious gangster boss, her math teacher and Tao Min-min (Starring Dewi Chien), the school's most popular girl. While Hsu Tai-yu reads the letter, he gets hit by a car. After weeding out the letter's sender, the angry Hsu Tai-yu makes Lin Truly his 'friend' and forces her to run errands for him in exchange for leaving Ouyang alone, thus making her his errand-girl.

By chance, Lin Truly accidentally overhears a conversation between Min-min and Ouyang and discovers that they are in a secret relationship. Dejected, she creates an alliance with Hsu Tai-yu, who likes Tao Min-min, to break the couple up. Throughout the course of events, Lin Truly and Hsu Tai-yu begin to understand each other better, and their friendship evolves as they began to learn a thing or two about true love. Eventually, they develop romantic feelings for each other.

Hsu Tai-yu later discovers that he has a blood clot in his brain, caused by the car accident and further exacerbated by his frequent brawling and falls. His parents decide to send him overseas, leaving Lin Truly with no way to contact him.

In the present day, Lin Truly leaves her unhappy job and relationship upon having rediscovered herself. She is still unable to book a ticket to an Andy Lau concert that is set to take place in Taipei, but fate intervenes and allows Andy Lau to act as the means by which Lin Truly and Hsu Tai-yu (Starring Jerry Yan) are reunited as adults.

(Source: Wikipedia)

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