Playing Ep 14

What people are saying

• sunnyzheng52

  Overall 9.5

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

  This review may contain spoilers
  For enthusiasts of the rom-com genre yearning for a series that winks at its audience while playfully embracing genre tropes, this offering is a delightful gem. If whimsy and levity aren't in your entertainment repertoire, you might choose to skip this one. I found myself utterly smitten with this series, with each installment adding a refreshing twist to the overarching narrative. The leading lady and leading man are the crowning jewels of the series, bringing an electric chemistry that holds...

  your gaze unwaveringly.
  
  Throughout the series, characters evolve in satisfying arcs, some with more subtlety than others. Yet, it's the central love story that truly captivates, with a genuineness that pierces through even the most predictable plot devices. Yes, there's a moment that screams 'Noble Idiocy,' but here it feels justified and consequential, making the resulting resolution all the more satisfying. Our leading man is refreshingly free from the usual cold-hearted detachment, and the leading lady is both relatable and admirably brave when it counts. As you follow their journey, you find yourself championing their love, routed in loyalty and depth.
  
  Venturing beyond the central pair, the series offers a secondary female lead, initially poised as the protagonist in an in-universe narrative, and her gradual descent into madness is as compelling as it is tragic. Despite a glimmer of self-awareness towards the end, she doesn't quite manage a redemptive arc. Conversely, the secondary male lead's presence is exasperating, clinging to unrequited feelings and blind to the obvious love shared by the main couple. His evolution into a more understanding character, later on, is an interesting turn, albeit irritating at times.
  
  The ensemble of side characters adds texture to the series, although the show cheekily acknowledges that they won't steal your focus or affection compared to the leads. While their stories are given less weight, they offer additional layers to the story for those willing to invest in them. It's a mixed bag, but there are gems to be found.
  
  In the end, it's the protagonists who completely steal the show, making it tough for others to shine in their shared spotlight. And the finale? It's a heartfelt conclusion that fans will surely relish.

• shymercury

  Overall 10

  Story 10,  Acting 10,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 10

  This series is an absolute gem. On the surface, one might think they're in for a familiar journey with the well-trodden trope of leaping into literary worlds, but this series elevates the concept to dazzling new heights. The writing is nothing short of stellar, weaving together humor and wit in ways that leave you snickering incessantly. Every scene transcends expectations, serving up belly laughs at such a consistent pace that one finds themselves glued to their screen, afraid to miss even a moment. In fact,...

  this show has the rare distinction of compelling me to watch every second, engaging to the point where I find myself rewinding to savor those sweetly crafted moments once more. For those who cherish romcoms with genuine substance, this one will have you thoroughly ensnared from the first episode to the last.
  
  The performances are a true highlight, with the cast breathing life into their roles with remarkable authenticity. The emotional range on display—be it in moments of humor, sorrow, or joy—speaks volumes of their talent. Each character stands out, each one vital to the vibrant tapestry of the storyline. Notably, our lead actor brings a multifaceted performance that belies his relative newness to the scene, while his counterpart delivers as expected, pairing an adorable demeanor with strong emotive chops during the more heartfelt sequences. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, eliciting delighted squeals from anyone who cherishes a good on-screen romance.
  
  Musically, the series may at first strike you as having an agreeable but unremarkable score. Yet, in the wake of the series, you might catch yourself humming the tunes, a testament to their subtle earworm quality as they grow on you with time.
  
  In conclusion, my recommendation for this series couldn't be more enthusiastic. Delightful, charming, and heartfelt, it's a whirlwind of emotions that masterfully tugs at the heartstrings. This is a well-rounded piece of entertainment that promises to deliver pure joy and satisfaction. It stands proudly as a beacon of light for anyone in need of laughter and love, without a single ounce of disappointment to be found.

• sweetkingkong

  Overall 9

  Story 10,  Acting 10,  Music 8.5,  Rewatch Value 8

  This side-splitting gem of a series delivers an Isekai twist with a comedic flair, transporting a savvy female scriptwriter alongside her dashing male lead into the heart of her own creation — a parallel historical world where societal gender roles are deliciously reversed. The mere concept is a stroke of genius that tantalizes the imaginations of audiences from the get-go.
  
  Elements that would typically be scrutinized as flaws — be it the outlandish logic or the smattering of narrative loopholes — are instead intentionally and brilliantly...

  woven into the fabric of the story, rendering an otherwise imperfect tapestry into an endearing piece of comedic art. The anachronistic juxtaposition of modern boldness with the subtleties of history paves the way for a plethora of misunderstandings. These mishaps ingeniously spur a series of knee-slapping scenarios, leaving viewers doubled over with laughter.
  
  The central female protagonist, portrayed with a magnetic blend of modern zest and period charm, is the embodiment of the phrase "Silly, Fair, and Sweet." Her star performance showcases significant growth, blooming into a role that is as entertaining as it is genuine. Meanwhile, the male protagonist, whose journey from dignified male lead to lovestruck fool is nothing short of delightful, captures the audience's affection with a versatility that transcends appearances. He is a testament to the saying that sometimes the fiercest tigers harbor the meekest of mice within — a duality that the actor executes with commendable skill.
  
  Supporting characters shine in their own right, particularly the endearing duo serving our leads. Their winsomely foolish antics and rubber-faced expressions amplify the show's comic appeal, garnishing this narrative feast with hearty laughs and adding a warmth that makes these personas undeniably lovable.
  
  Boasting a compact series run, this delightful spectacle succeeds in captivating viewers without resorting to dreaded filler content. Every episode is a riveting chapter leading to a well-crafted denouement. Personally, I find myself wholly enamored with this series, and it's with eager anticipation that I hope new fans will discover and embrace its unique charm.

• fastspaceballs

  Overall 6

  Story 5.5,  Acting 6.5,  Music 2,  Rewatch Value 3

  Warning: Review may include spoilers
  Prepare yourselves for a deep dive as we unpack a recent C-drama. This narrative is tailor-made for those of us who find delight in contemporary minds navigating the murky waters of ancient China, with its inevitable ensemble of striking gentlemen. It's an enticing thought - becoming the protagonist in one's very own fanciful tale. Yet, despite the allure of its foundational idea, the journey through this series proves tumultuous at best.
  
  At the heart of my critique lies the lead female...

  character, Chen Qian Qian, whose behavior often prompted a wince. There's an overbearing insistence on her end to manipulate the narrative to adhere to her original fiction. One craves for the moment when realization dawns on her that life need not mimic her script. Alas, she remains oblivious to the creative freedom that her unique situation affords her, steadfastly attempting to direct occurrences around her.
  
  Her transition from modernity to a quasi-historical realm is eerily seamless - so much so that one wonders about her lack of cultural shock. Unlike her counterparts in other dramas, who wield their contemporary knowledge like a sword, Qian Qian's modern-day flair is conspicuously absent. This omission feels like a squandered opportunity to add richness to her character.
  
  Turning our gaze to the second female lead, Chu Chu's progression is lamentably predictable. What began as a breath of fresh air with her amicable demeanor, transitions into the archetypal malicious rival. The narrative's failure to harness her initial benevolence is disheartening, particularly given the sisterly bond early on.
  
  Let us also press the writers for consistency. Central to the plot is the contest for the Young City Master's seat, which suggests supremacy within Huanyuan. Yet as the tale unravels, so too does our understanding of this hierarchy, with seemingly arbitrary shifts in power dynamics that beckon greater explanation.
  
  Furthermore, the structural integrity of this fictional world merits examination. Is every nuance and backstory spawned from Chen Qian Qian's scripting? One struggles to reconcile her lack of omniscience with her role as the creator. It begs the question of how much the universe autonomously generates beyond her written word.
  
  Romantically, the series leans on the tired trope of deceptive break-ups 'for the greater good', bypassing the simple resolution of honest communication. And when it comes to Han Shuo, his noble attributes are marred by a disturbing display of aggression towards Qian Qian, an act that lingers uncomfortably despite narrative attempts at reconciliation.
  
  The status of their marital bond, shrouded in ambiguity, further complicates the duo's relationship. A traditional ceremony is eschewed, leaving one to wonder about the validity of their union.
  
  Despite the criticisms, there is a flicker of adoration for the world-building at play. The juxtaposition of Xuanhu and Huanyuan serves as a fascinating commentary on gender dynamics. However, the exploration of this contrast is fleeting and only fully approaches its potential in the series' concluding chapters.
  
  In an amusing twist, the discussion of the wardrobe department cannot be overlooked. The sartorial splendor of the characters, particularly Chen Qian Qian, begets admiration and sometimes seems to overshadow the narrative itself.
  
  In sum, the concept behind the indefinitely named 'Tiger and Rose' holds promise but lacks the finesse and coherence to truly captivate. A tighter narrative could have transformed this drama into one deserving of accolades.

• dullan

  Overall 7

  Story 6.5,  Acting 8,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 5

  Be aware, this article may reveal key plot details.
  The series in question, despite its seemingly middling impression on my critic's sensibilities, surprisingly provided a decent measure of enjoyment. The narrative zigzagged through a labyrinth of the unexpected, occasionally veering towards the excessive. The on-screen duo dazzled with their comedic prowess, sprinkling the script with an array of delightful and amusing gems.
  
  However, my scrutiny unveils several considerable blemishes. Initially setting sail on breezy, lighthearted waters, the story later morphed into a complex knot come the...

  climax. It was during these concluding chapters that a smattering of narrative loopholes emerged, looming both large and small—though, admittedly, the finale provided a certain level of gratification in its viewing.
  
  The narrative struck a peculiar chord as the protagonists found themselves entangled in inexplicable disputes as the series progressed. Observing their liaison unravel into a series of conflicts rendered the believability of their romance somewhat contentious, nudging me to contemplate the appropriateness of their pairing.
  
  As for the characters, the early promise of Chu Chu's robust disposition gradually withered into a less compelling portrait of vulnerability. On the flip side, the characters of Pei Heng and Lin Qi took shape in wholly unexpected and pleasing trajectories, emerging astoundingly as my preferred personalities within the series.
  
  A trio of side characters, designed mainly to induce laughter, were noted. While humor is a welcome guest in a fantastical rom-com of this nature, the trio's presence seemed excessive and risked eclipsing the gravity of the narrative's more solemn moments.
  
  In closing, this particular series could be the ticket for those in pursuit of a whimsical, charming, and slightly overdrawn fantastical romantic comedy. Conversely, it may fall short for those yearning for an intricately woven plot populated with deeply layered characters.