Playing Ep 21

What people are saying

• gentleko

  Overall 9.5

  Story 9.5,  Acting 9.5,  Music 9.5,  Rewatch Value 9

  Engaging Narrative, Sizzling Chemistry, Witty Repartee
  
  This series has emerged as a charming gem among the historical comedy-drama landscape. Initially, the show's title nearly put me off, but the delightful absurdity of the opening scenes captured my heart. The humor expertly weaves together linguistic gaffes, brought to life through a delightful play on accents which leads to a comically misinterpreted assignment. The result? A vibrant blend of laughter and warmth.
  
  We meet an effervescent comic book illustrator who is infatuated with the lore of a renowned Duke...

  and his eclectic household. This Duke is the patriarch to a formidable general celebrated as a God of War, a vivacious and bohemian second son, an elder brother embroiled in political intricacies, and an infant son, an unexpected addition to the grand lineage. Our protagonist's comics, however, paint these storied figures in a scandalously unflattering light, stirring the ire of the Duke's eldest and stirring a rousing chase led by him.
  
  Our plucky artist, equipped with an impressively detailed photographic memory, gets roped into a covert mission to sketch distinguished monks - a task hilariously misconstrued due to verbal nuances, leaving her believing she is to depict four disrobed men for a handsome reward. Predictably, this miscommunication spirals into an uproarious escapade.
  
  The formidable eldest son is someone to be feared, wrapping every threat with a chilling “death by the paddles.” In a daring bid to evade his wrath, the creative talent feigns an unexpected condition, coercing a marriage that he agrees to as an escape from his own unwelcome betrothal. However, the bonds of love unexpectedly tether the unlikely pair, transcending class divides and capturing his previously guarded heart.
  
  Observing the Lead Performances
  
  Both leads bring a fresh exuberance to their roles. The female lead's spirited eyes, delightful expressions, and unaffected charm lend her a refreshing authenticity. Her portrayals—from audacious teases to desperate fabrications—highlight a talent for comic timing while she outmaneuvers perilous situations, making her first leading role both memorable and commendable.
  
  On the other hand, the male lead portrays the stoic warrior with a magnetic presence. Initially shrouded in icy indifference, his transformation into a lover marked by profound adoration and protectiveness is as compelling as it is heartwarming. His novice status does not hinder his ability to deliver an engaging performance.
  
  Final Impressions
  
  The series proves to be an absolute delight, threading the growth of a tender romance with care. Beyond the initial and swiftly uncovered deception, the lead couple's journey avoids the usual pitfalls of melodrama, fostering an authenticity in their relationship. Parents are portrayed as enlightened and the family is depicted as a model of harmony, echoing the Duke's deeply held values of unity and kindness.
  
  As the tale concludes, the narrative ensures that every character's arc reaches a satisfying denouement. While the occasional plot inconsistency may arise, the story remains an endearing experience for audiences across the board. This historical romp through love and laughter is a must-watch. Don't let the name fool you!

• WiseSamuel91

  Overall 10

  Story 10,  Acting 10,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 9.5

  An Exemplary Pairing; Authentic Devotion; Superlative Execution
  
  There's an undiscovered gem in the realm of television dramas that deserves your full attention. This show has not only met my expectations for what constitutes sensational television but soared beyond them. Allow me to champion this series, encouraging more viewers to bask in its brilliance.
  
  Defying any preconceived notions set by its promotional material, this is no mere exercise in comedic fluff. It's rich with genuine sentiment without slipping into the depths of soap-operatic excess. The central romance unfolds...

  with a grace that captures the heart in a web of tender moments, defying expectations yet maintaining a robust credibility. The antics never detract from the emotional heft—instead, they add levity in all the right doses.
  
  Every sequence is a testament to the directorial prowess at play, with scenic beauty unfurling before our eyes like pages from a well-illustrated book. Particularly noteworthy is a wedding scene that could be described as nothing less than majestic, set against backgrounds so picturesque they could hang in an art gallery.
  
  Central to the series' charm is the elegantly penned narrative arc—the protagonists' love story. Masterfully ironic given the female lead's reputation as a charming prevaricator who boldly reveals her truth before tying the knot. Rather than indulge in the tropes of deceptive unions, here we find two souls already intertwined by genuine affection and allure. She holds secrets, yes, but her partner is not fooled, choosing instead to provide her with understanding and space.
  
  Their bond is perfectly encapsulated when he declares, "Belief is my choice; trust is yours." Once united, he embodies the epitome of what a partner should be—trustworthy, respectful, adoring, and fiercely protective.
  
  Against a backdrop of adversaries and trials, our central duo stands resolute. Their love never wavers, and the plot reveals its twists with deft precision that can leave viewers pleasantly caught off guard.
  
  The dynamic between these two characters is one of complete harmony, channeling an unmistakable energy that transcends acting and permeates the screen, bringing the love story to life with rare authenticity—much credit to the lead performers and the visionary Director Cheng for orchestrating such a triumphant production.
  
  This series stands as a blueprint for storytelling — a testament to a love that is steadfast, built on the impermeable foundations of communication and trust, heralding a message that transcends status and the essence of family.
  
  With the perfect infusion of humor to keep things buoyant, it compels me to return for another viewing, eager to delve back into the magic it offers.
  
  Elevated, heartfelt, and flawless in execution – it's the kind of story that calls for encore after encore.

• mightygladiator

  Overall 9

  Story 10,  Acting 10,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 5

  This television drama delivers a captivating narrative complemented by splendid performances, although the tearful displays from a prominent supporting character can be somewhat grating. It's refreshing to see a series that doesn't overstay its welcome, opting instead for brisk, enjoyable storytelling. The portrayal of a generally contented family with a touch of infidelity provides a heartwarming watch without the typical angst-inducing tropes. Thankfully absent are the cliche figures of the domineering matriarch, the despotic patriarch, and the irrational misunderstandings that often serve as needless plot...

  extenders. The story progresses smoothly and engagingly, situating this show squarely in the realm of pleasurable viewing. Laughs are sprinkled liberally both in the beginning and as the series draws to its close. Additionally, the eye for detail in costume and set design doesn't go unnoticed, adding visual depth to an already charming series.

• loudanne80

  Overall 8.5

  Story 8,  Acting 9,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 9.5

  Be aware that this review may reveal significant plot elements
  The Irresistible Pull of Opposites! The narrative unfurls in cherished, familiar patterns we've encountered before, injecting life into the classic trope of an ice-hearted hero warmed by a buoyant, utterly endearing heroine. The charm of the female lead lies in her complex nature; her eyes might dance at the sight of wealth, yet her heart beats for the family that raised her in the world of performance and entertainment. With her photographic gift for art,...

  she gets entangled in a quest to capture on canvas a prized legacy connected to our stoic gentleman.
  
  Their journey spirals into a hearty laugh as her misinterpretation leads to embarrassing yet comical mistakes (imagine confusing ascetic figures with something far less clothed). The plot thickens when she fabricates a pregnancy to escape peril, unknowingly ensnaring the male protagonist who leverages this faux pas to sidestep an unwanted betrothal. Even after the truth surfaces, he realizes his fondness for her outweighs the deceit and urges the continuance of the pretense.
  
  The simplicity of the premise does stretch the lie beyond comfort at times, and the two seem resistant to the evident escape routes from their woven web of fiction. When faced with adversaries' plots or life's abrupt twists, they shy away from seizing the chance to come clean, propelling the deceit further than necessary—though it's arguably more about preserving feelings than avoiding consequences.
  
  What bolsters this production is the heartfelt performances delivered by the ensemble cast. Not one character slips into the shadows, from the antagonistic family member stirring turmoil to the unexpectedly endearing household of the male lead—his kin depict the rarity of high status fused with genuine warmth and comic relief. His parents exhibit a delightful pivot in their demeanor upon the whiff of grandparenthood, and his father, in particular, embodies the coziness of a family patriarch. The maternal fierceness of the heroine's own mother adds a layer of ferocity and protectiveness that enriches the family dynamics. Let’s not forget the standout guardian character whose blend of loyalty and humor adds another layer of enjoyment to the tale.
  
  But it's the romance that takes center stage; the leads radiate a remarkable chemistry that could set the screen ablaze. Their onscreen presence echoes the dynamic seen between stars like Ryan Ding and Zhao Lu Si in their famed roles, a testament to their synchronicity that conjures authentic romantic sparks. The subtle language of their physicality, the unspoken yet profound cues that manifest quietly away from the central focus of the camera, breathe life into their connection, casting an enchantment over viewers.
  
  As affection enters the scene, our leading man shines in his unyielding devotion, encapsulating the kind of tenderness that viewers pine for. His gestures and protective instincts translate into a love language so potent, audiences are left swooning. The lady of his heart reciprocates with a sweetness so potent it's almost saccharine. It's this enthralling interplay that leaves fans reenacting their swoon-worthy exchanges long after the credits roll, proving that even the most well-worn tales can be dusted with fresh magic when spun with earnest performances and heartfelt connections.

• tinyliu

  Overall 8.5

  Story 8,  Acting 9,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 8

  A charming tale woven with elements of romance and political chicanery, this series features a wonderfully impulsive heroine whose default mode appears to be act hastily, consider later—a trait that invariably lands her in hot water. Often, her only recourse is to concoct inventive fabrications. Despite her penchant for mischief, her heart remains untainted, compelling her to grapple with the remorse her deceptions elicit. A pivotal moment of honesty is when she reveals the untruth of her pregnancy—a desperate fabrication to extricate herself from dire...

  straits which could've cost her life. Her subsequent decision to decline a wedding proposal, risking fatal repercussions rather than perpetuate a deception, elicits nothing but respect for her integrity and bravery.
  
  The leading man presents as distant and disenchanted with the web of courtly schemes, yearning to escape the shadow of his father's legacy, preferring the clear-cut life of military service. His initial frostiness melts as he encounters our heroine—his affections for her blossom fervently, and he maneuvers to secure her proximity, his intentions enveloped in manipulative threats enveloping her falsehood. Yet, the audience is treated to his remarkable evolution—his transformation from coercive to nurturing is nothing short of delightful.
  
  Supporting characters enrich the canvas with their varied hues—particularly the male protagonist’s parents exude a sweetness and understanding that provide touching moments. The ancillary romances add layers to the narrative, while the antagonists offer performances so compelling, viewers relish in detesting them. Although the show wades through moments of gloom and tension, it cleverly balances them, ensuring the story retains a buoyant quality without veering too far into the melodramatic.
  
  Criticisms of the series are few but worth mentioning. The prolonged ruse of the phantom pregnancy wears thin after awhile, testing one's patience. The heroine's initial whimsy might strike some as frivolous, yet her character's trajectory promises growth and maturation. As for the once stoic hero, he undergoes a transformation into an endearing figure unafraid of emotional display. The narrative strength gathers momentum with each episode, enticing viewers further into its fold. Romance aficionados will find the on-screen chemistry palpable, the affectionate exchanges well-executed. While the series isn't without its faults, it remains a compelling mix of laughter, sorrow, and indignation, worthy of a watch for those seeking a story with heart and humor.