I just finally finished this and I am glad somebody said it for Bai Jingting’s line delivery. I feel he is one of those whi because of his status as well-liked and well-connected celebrity, gets forgiven for his performance shortcoming.
I am obsessed with this drama...but you hit the nail on the head. Some of those things in critique make sense! That brothel scene was funny but even I was like girl why you airing all your business!
AvenueX complaining about the BGM drowning out the voices of the actors.... meanwhile all the non-Mandarin speakers are just like "well the subtitles looked pretty clear to me" 🤣Honestly half the time I'm so busy reading the subtitles that if Bai Jingting decided to strip balls naked randomly I probably wouldn't notice until the subtitles said so 😜
@@riverflowDW Oh wow, another pair of eyes on my forehead would make life so much easier! I'll just sit here and wait for evolution to do its thing so. I mean obviously I could go away and learn Chinese but I feel like that would take longer... 🤣
Haha I'm not a Mandarin speaker but I do like to listen to the original audio in combination with the subtitles to learn a bit more 😂😂😂 so the background music did bother me at times, it surprised me quite a lot!
I just revisited the drama to dwell on the little details. On the fox fur coat part, she initially wanted to PAWN the coat, to get the money for her mom's medicines but not to lose the coat completely since she holds it very dearly. When you pawn an item, you are taking out a loan using your valuable as collateral. The pawnbroker will agree to give you a certain amount of cash and hold your item until you have paid back the loan amount plus interest and fees. Mind you, she made the coat for Ye Shi An. Hence, Gu Jiusi giving her money will not solve her problem, she still loses the precious coat.
I found Destined to be the only watchable Chinese period drama released this summer. As an only drama watcher I am sad to hear that C-drama land hates on strong, smart, independent FLs and they always tone them down. As I been watching it until now, it always shows how both her and the husband think alike and many times they are shown coming together to the same decision or having the exact same idea. Like the ML can't be less wiser than his wife in some aspects. It looks like they definitely downgraded the FL intellect and upgraded the ML just to make them meet in the middle. On the other his father and mother dynamics is more clear in that sense. The wife is the one which led the business and the family and thanks to her abilities the family fortune existed while the husband was supporting her, was understanding and protecting the family when the times called for it.
A dream of splendor was so boring and dull....and the lack of chemistry was so off putting. The drama was beautiful in cultural aspects. .but story was just bland.
I could kinda understand why they made the FL less helpful at the beginning of the drama. The novel!FL is after all too intelligent for her age so I’m okay with the movie!FL gradually building up her business skills and experience overtime. But with the appearance of Luo Zi Shang at the brothel and his playing “that girl is interesting” trope too early in the story, I lost faith in the writers of this drama. In the novel, Luo Zi Shang was introduced much later after the downfall of the ML family. One of his first appearance was when he and his men were searching for the food speculator (it’s the FL) and the FL pretended to be a helpless lady to fool him. After her scheme succeeded, she planned to make an escape via boat. LZS managed to chase her down to the port. He then met that helpless pretty lady from the other day (i.e. the FL but he still didn’t know who she really was). She gracefully greeted him, gave him her umbrella, and calmly walked away. When LZS realised she was the culprit he was looking for, she had successfully escaped right under his nose. I think that would leave a much bigger impression on LZS than the FL’s broadcasting her life in public lol.
@@yuhyi0122I mean, what do they think the novel is famous in the first place😳? All the dramas they made somehow all have a garbage plot because they think people want them to change the plot line.
I love your rant videos and this is the ultimate rant. 😂 Thinking how you've made it through all of this you've been torturing yourself with some pretty bad dramas. 辛苦了！And thank you always for your recommendations, they never fail!
I really like the original novel story. I like the drama too mainly because of the cast acting is amazing and some plot are kept the same. But, as the novel readers, I agree there's somehow 'something's missing' feeling. But anyway I still enjoy the drama, and can recommend it.
I'm very hooked for this drama. So far the most interesting I've watched on a long time. I'm in Mexico and just now iQiyi app is launching a chapter each day. This is the second one from Bai Jinting that I watch. Ty for the review
Who are you referring to, the females leads maid? I thought she was the doctor in Blood of Youth and she was in Who Rules The World. That young actress is great! I hope to she her in a few parts as well. 💃🏽
Liu Xue Yi (Luo Zi Shang) is really a VERY GOOD ACTOR and very handsome First noticed him in The Blood of Youth as a very handsome Monk. No Hair to cover imperfection, but he is still very handsome no matter which angle. Looking at him, he seems all natural, no PS, I might be wrong. If he did have, then his PS was very good. But I still don't think he did PS. He's a very good actor, but always a supporting role. He is more deserving to be in Main Role compared to those who can't act but always getting Main Roles. Hope more production companies give him the chance
I've read 60 chapters of the original novel, I didn't continue since I didn't want to spoil the drama. So far I love Bai Jingting and Song Yi, they fit perfectly. I also really like the cinematography too. I just wish they didn't change this empowering story this way. Still it is nice to see a novel I really liked come to life❤
I haven’t read the novel, but overall in terms of entertainment value, production quality, acting and dramatic tension, this is still a good drama to watch. I think the chemistry between the two leads is great and it’s a key element making this drama works.
I thought I was imagining the whispering and put it down to bad recording. The off camera sounds are very noticeable in places, with dialogue being drowned out by what sounded like a generator in a couple of scenes. There is a place for dubbing, folks.
I am currently on EP8 and the FL, although her acting is good, just annoys me lol. I get she's meant to be smart, calculating etc, but her actions just seem very strange to me, like broadcasting her whole life in a brothel, crying and running away when he offered her gold instead of the fur coat, etcetc lmao. I do like seeing the relationship develop, both of them gradually seeing a new side to life thanks to the other. One thing iqiyi never disappoints with is definitely the cinematography. The lighting, colour palettes, camera angles - stunning!
I appreciate the script where true love prevails. Unlike so many other dramas where the girl is chased by at least 3 men and the FL just hangs them on until she chooses the man in the final ep, Song Yi in this one tells her first love she is now married and he should keep his distance. She also turned down the crazy dude. Her love for BJT by going through the finger torture and finally pretending to be dead were precious - very rare in drama land.
I haven’t read the novel, so have no basis to be disappointed in any differences. For me, having watched 16 episodes, this drama is charming and entertaining because the acting is good and the lead couple are absolutely adorable!
I agree with all the points you mentioned. That scene at the brothel was cringe it felt weird watching it. And the ML voice always shocked me, like why are you whispering? But it is by far one of the best Costume drama released this year.
I was going to watch this, but after finding out that they have disempowered all the female characters like that I don't much feel llike it anymore. I wonder if the novel is available to read anywhere in English...
I’m enjoying it as a spectacle-I think I would prefer it as a more serious domestic drama, but the production decided to go in this over-the-top direction, which is fun, but not very involving emotionally. I have to say the music and the big, somewhat garish sets remind me of that awful “General and I” from 2017, but this production is a bit prettier over all.
I actually like this drama. It made me subscribed to iQIYI. I can’t stand the other dramas that are too heavy. There’s nothing wrong with the costumes in my opinion. They look the same as the other period dramas to me.
Oh, now I want to read the original novel! I'm enjoying this drama very much. I love such energetic, positive characters as these two. And so much chemistry! Also, I always find the less aristocratic roles and more business roles in period dramas refreshing. ❤
I have only watched 10 episodes. Im having a hard time continuing because the show is not interesting enough for me, which is sad because i was really looking forward to this show. IDK maybe i will push through and eventually i will be more interested. Right now when i fly towards you is the only cdrama where i am actively looking forward for new episodes.
You are so right about the illogical actions of the lead character. I gave it up after ep 1. The fox fur scenario really put me off about her intellect and now hearing from you about how they weakened the female lead's role I doubt if I will bother with this drama. It is a pity because I really like Liu Xiu Yi but I am not a fan of Bai Jing Ting so I will wait for a better show. Thanks for saving me the time.
Are you watching "Sisterhood"? :) I‘d love to see a review in case you do. I love the gangster ML & the pirate + Nan Lan couple :D Romance of people in their 40-50s is very over looked but their dynamic is so fun.
I actually thought this plasticky, weird-cutting, unnecessary stitches/embroidery thing is totally standard of idol costume dramas in c-drama land... When I checked the first ep of Bridgerton, I was like, whoa! Their costumes are like Chinese idol costume dramas! that's why I extra appreciate a handful of c-dramas just bc of their costumes.
i don't get it.. if drama makers don't intend to follow the original novels, why would they say it's an adaptation? just make original srcipts and don't use false advertisement to rope in novel readers into watching
I'm shouting "I agree" at every illogical plot point you mentioned. Why go to the person who bought an item? Why have such an intimate conversation in public? Why did she allow the Mayor's son to humiliate her in public when she could have chosen a more private setting for the meeting with the military buyer? It made no sense.
The BGM is indeed too loud! But the whisper-like voice of the ML, I can accept! Just take it as his characteristic! Not everyone speaks in a nice, booming voice 😆
I enjoy this drama so far, and I really like the acting esp! But I do agree with you, they switched the roles around and I didn't like that. I was waiting for another great and intelligent Female Lead, but they gave us a rather run down Female Lead to work with. I'm still going to continue watching this series for the same reason as you, to see if this drama maintains a reasonable level of logic since I'm already half way through.
Wow, I don't think I'll even try and watch it after hearing all of that, it is so infuriating for them to take a story with a strong FL just to make her dependent on the ML in the adaptation.
I had no knowledge of the original story, and I felt that the FL was portrayed as a ‘Mary Sue’, that is, a character who immediately excels at everything she tries. After watching your clip, I realised that this was because she was shown to have no Business savy or political understanding when the drama started, but then, to get the story going, all her Business venture immediately had to be successful, without the audience ever seen her actually ‘learning’ any of it. This makes sense if the person is introduced as already having some knowledge when the drama starts, but because she was made to be so clueless in the beginning, her sudden switch to Business-woman felt undeserved.
Thank you Avenue X ❤ Bai ting in my mind is always the " Gu nangyi" in the rise of the Phoenixes...i so loved his character and performance along with Ni Ni that i couldn't overcome " Gu nangyi" . I think i have a problem 😅 I can.only see an extension of Gu nangyi growing up.. I feel bad for myself since xiao Bai is talented , i can't appreciate other roles of him .. 😢
Glad I caught this. Biggest reasons for me not to watch a CD: 1) Bad/unoriginal script & bad edit - rely on too many tropes, such as miscommunication or no communication, mountains out of mole hills/pettiness. (A female student goes to imperial college was an an act of self-torture on my part - the scene set ups, edits 🤦♀️). 2) Voice Dubbing 3) Costume and set design.
this drama does not have any of the troupes listed, story is quite fresh and the characters are still very strong...everyone dubbed themselves this couple have no misunderstanding throughout, easily one of the nicest couples and the costumes looks good, you have to check for yourself tbh
I also found it hard to digest that the female lead clever's up after a few episodes, but was a dumbass in the first episode when she went to the buyer to get her stuff back without even paying him back instead of going to the seller
Haven't read the book but listened to the audio drama, which was A+++ amazing. I knew something was off in the first few episodes of the drama, but continued watching since the casting is so good, but the plot just got more and more weird, with increasing number of inconsistencies and odd pacing. I gave up at ep 8
Lyr knows she wont be able to confront her father's concubine and that it would be fruitless to approach the concubine to return the money. She is desperate to get medicine for her sick and frail mother, that is why her only desperate solution is to appeal to the buyer who is rich and does not really need the fur cloak. As we all onlookers know, its not logical. But she was desperate. Her mother's condition deteriorated because the mean concubine withheld the funds for her medicine, (on purpose, so the main mistress of the house would die , so that then, she the concubine can legally usurp her position, i think...... I do agree that the over embroidered garments are unnecessary, the budgeted funds could well be used for something else, maybe on the scenes that the Fl n ML was travelling through the dessert . Since they are going to survive anyway, maybe 'create' surviving tools for them to make the scenes less wearisome to sit through to watch (for the viewers )??!!😞 Just a thought....thank you for sharing your insights. ❤
Thanks for the review~! I was interested but since it got illogical parts and doesn't follow the novel I'd probably drop since was interested in the business savvy strong FL
Considerando que Liu Yuru tiene 15 años no me parece tan mal que su personaje sea inseguro. Al contrario, estoy un poco cansada de protagonistas que son perfectas en todo desde un inicio y me gusta ver personajes con errores que cambian y se desarrollan.
Does anyone know where I may be able to find the English translated version of the original story? I’m enjoying the series. But would really love to read the original story… in English. Thank you so much
Even though I'm not reading the novel, I'm kinda annoyed with the first episode. By the time I manage to watch it till episode 4, I need to stop for a while and watch other dramas. I still wanna watch it because I like the other casts like you said. Hope to continue later.
Destined is quite fun and for the most part really enjoyable... Really agree with the criticism. Maybe the scriptwriter/s changed things so that both main leads get character development throughout the drama...Really hoping the script improves in the second half
Well something that you mention are true but by far this is a really good drama, one of the best of this year, I really love it I watched ep 27 so good it made me cry😢. Anyway everyone have their opinion I haven't read the original book ao bye far I love this drama
AvenurX I've listened attentively to your first impression on this drama. " DESTINED " . If as you said that the original is so much better than how it's being portrayed, are their steps that the writer can follow up with. Or is it a matter of when it sold it's hand off. Personally I haven't read the book , but with all the faults that you have mentioned I'm enjoying the drama.
Just finished that drama 1 hour ago and I thought it was pretty good ! Loved the leads relationship development and chemistry but would have preferred less focus on politics.
I've watched 4 episodes and completely agree that the script doesn't make much sense - she wants the fir coat from him and doesn't take the gold that he offers, she cries all night that he will divorce her, the crazy brothel scene with the sword, his father, who has left him do whatever he wants, now expects his wife to make him a mature person, the in-laws give her more support than 21st century in-laws would do. Idk what is the excuse for not marrying the princess in the novel, but in the drama they won't get away with their lame explanation. From what you said about the novel, it's appalling that they changed the essence of the story. But for those like me, who haven't read it, it could still be a watchable drama with good acting, if things actually made sense.
Unpopular opinion : I prefer to watch Destined over New Life Begin due to good acting of ML/FL/ all supporting casts😍. But, I do agree that there are some plot hole in drama such as the FL rejected the gold given by the ML at ep 1, mother of FL is being indecisive to leave her bad husband at ep 15🤔.
I dont understand why NLB has such hight ratings. The cast is good, the chemistry between ML/FL is great, I love Bai Jingting as sixth prince, but the story is rather blah. And it is definitely not about female empowering, the whole plot is centered around the 6th prince. And why on earth does the princess stay with a man ( 5th prince) she hates?
@@fuchurZero yep. The princess has too overbearing personality which unbearable to watch her relationship with the 5th prince and I lost interest in NLB halfway through😅.
Well I think it is more believable for the FL with her indecisiveness in the first few episodes of drama, logically speaking with her age and knowing that she was never once directly involved in any of her father's clothing business, we need some learning curve, we need to sprinkle some failures in her business and make it realistic. After all, she was all prepared to be a scholar/govt. official wife, to be Ye's wife. She learned etiquette, painting, embroidery, music, to be reserved, etc etc, to be a well-behaved domestic woman of a noble family. We need to see the shift of reserved LYR to the business-savvy LYR. But indeed I agree, as the story proceeds and enters the heavier part of the drama, the writer significantly reduces her screen time. And you can barely hear her name mentioned in the dialogue, meanwhile, her husband, Gu Jiushi is mentioned here and there even when he is not in the scene. I need to see her in actions, her decision-making process, her meticulous execution of plans, etc.. Despite all of those, I wouldn't say she is the type of weak heroine. It is fascinating to see a powerful and upright lady, who does not hesitate to show her fragile side, her worries, cries, and helpless feelings. She reminded me a lot of Liguang Qingkui character from Starry Love. and abt the logic of the script, yes, the holes are everywhere. So I just finished the drama, said after 5 years they show us their first son which does not looks like a 5 y.o boy ... I didn't remember they mentioned that Yuru got pregnant during the reign of Feng Yu?? They travel here and there to distribute ransom, and before Feng Yu, both of them are in exile.. How tf in 5 years they suddenly have a boy who look like at least 6 or 7 y.o 😂😂😂
No creo que presenten al protagonista como un ser perfecto y de hecho al inicio incluso estuve pensando en dejar el drama por actitudes que tenía. Se lo mostraba immaduro e insensible. Una escena que para nada me gustó fue cuando Gu Jiu Si amenaza a Liu Yuru con divorciarse de ella después de haber visto como le afectó la primera vez que se lo propuso en la noche de bodas. Me pareció bastante ruin y rastrero por su parte utilizar algo que sabes que ha hecho daño a alguien para amenazarle
I want to see some body who are rich enough money to spent n make better drama which will stick to the org story telling the way it should be again for this Destined.
Idk I guess because I don’t have reference of the source material I have a more positive experience with the drama. Maybe it’s my western eyes and ears 🤷🏾♂️
I have previously enjoyed your critiques however this time? Not so much. It is interesting you are concerned that the FL doesn't compare to the novel's portrayal as a wise strong woman considering you did not read it. Your concern as to the costuming issues didnt interest me in the slightest way. I believe you have been a bit harsh and can be discouraging for anyone to start watching it who has trusted your past opinions. I am also delighted, as you are, to hear natural voices rather than dubbing. I don't understand why you found fault with the ML's speech pattern. Not all are privileged to have elocution lessons. Since we are half way thru this drama and I am so enjoying it, I hope you will raise your rating to encourage, rather than discourage International fans of Chinese Drama. I look forward to your final review.
The original novel is quite good, though I gave up because it could not make me addicted, but it is good reading first chapters. The drama is nothing compared with the novel, it nearly ruined the characters.
Some viewers joked that this drama is "Blood of Youth" cast reunion - Same director who likes to work with familiar faces. But I feel like the director is more of a hire-on than one who has complete control over the production. Cdramas adapted from big female lead stories ending up weakening their female leads should be expected. A woman is "allowed" to be intelligent, strong, capable and etc as long as she doesn't outshine "her man". Some mentioned that BJT being the top billing influenced how the script treated his character. It's likely that main male cast members overall have bigger fanbases than main female cast members. The production took that into consideration giving male cast fans what they'd prefer to see. In a twisted way, this probably reduces often irrational hatred towards any FL, and by extension, FL actress.
Actually dropped Destined on ep 5 (same reaction as you for the brothel and even worstly turned off by the FL depriving the ML of food to force him to study - that read as abuse to me) but I'm glad to hear there's a novel this drama is based on and that it sounds quite interesting. I will check it out! 😁
I had my reservation to watch this drama because I really don’t watch Song Yi dramas. I do like Bai Jingting but I gave it a try and to my surprise it’s quite good and enjoyable. They both have good chemistry together! If you rate this drama not even 1 gold mine why are you saying it’s good !? Lol I disagree, it’s good drama watch it.
It's just sad that they keep thinking that main characters have to be "perfect" from get go, the female character meek, pretty and basically garnish to the male characters even for adaptation for specifically female-driven story! A waste of Song Yi's talent! We were robbed! I want to see graceful, cunning, wise female lead!!!!!!!
I don't know what the reviewer was watching but I saw most of the things she cited as being in the novel also in the drama. Followed Destined faithfully, partly because there is not much else on right now, but found I liked the interactions between the main characters very satisfying in how they developed into a solid relationship. So far, it looks like it is gaining much more approval by fans than 'one goldmine or less'. Looking forward to more of the action.
While watching the first 7 episodes, i was thinking what would AvenueX think about this series? 😂 and, i thought the FL was supposed to be a strong character 🤔 knew something didnt sit right 😂 now i know (sigh)
I watched remake first.....and than original...original was def better.....it's due to AA...he made that role his...with his acting..swag...action..in his style...which no one can copy.
i notice many youtube n tiktok videos shows many silly people having public burst . i guess this is the behaviour now. People think its ok. I dont. I'm still old fashion in that sense.
Thank you, Avenue X, I think I will skip this drama unless your final rating goes up considerably. I think A Dream of Splendor may have set my expectations too high for female-centric period dramas. By the way, your outfit and hair look beautiful!
Having not read the novel, I was actually surprised that the male lead’s family is a matriarchy (what does his father even do other than raise his house plants…?) and that his relationship with the female lead involves her immediately becoming the head of their household and financially supporting him through his career goals (maybe since you’re right in that his character starts off not flawed enough). Even though I too enjoy reading Chinese novels with strong female leads, but that setup actually was so shocking for me. The male lead even jokes that he’s a kept man in a recent episode… which isn’t untrue since he has a minimum wage job and she’s running a luxury beauty product business lol. This is very different from Meng Hua Lu, in which the strong female lead is actually financially and power dependent on the male lead… since she’s just a small country girl with a startup business and he’s a successful high ranking official…
I’m half way through this story and although they’ve graduated to sleeping in the same bed, they still haven’t even kissed. They’ve been together for at least six months and weathered the worst storm of their lives, yet he seems fine with their arrangement. Not typical of a 20 year old man. Also, the FL is really too old to be playing this part-she’s 34 playing a “brilliant” teen. Really has anyone had a teen been that adept at everything? I’m watching this specifically for Bai Jing Ting because I love his acting and facial expressions, but the FL doesn’t work for me. When will these two ever kiss?
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I watched the ending tonight. It has one of the best, happiest endings in fictional costumed Chinese dramas
I just finally finished this and I am glad somebody said it for Bai Jingting’s line delivery. I feel he is one of those whi because of his status as well-liked and well-connected celebrity, gets forgiven for his performance shortcoming.
I am obsessed with this drama...but you hit the nail on the head. Some of those things in critique make sense! That brothel scene was funny but even I was like girl why you airing all your business!
AvenueX complaining about the BGM drowning out the voices of the actors.... meanwhile all the non-Mandarin speakers are just like "well the subtitles looked pretty clear to me" 🤣Honestly half the time I'm so busy reading the subtitles that if Bai Jingting decided to strip balls naked randomly I probably wouldn't notice until the subtitles said so 😜
🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣 I think by now there another pair of eyes growing on my forehead because it's so hard to read and watch full screen at once 😅
@@riverflowDW Oh wow, another pair of eyes on my forehead would make life so much easier! I'll just sit here and wait for evolution to do its thing so. I mean obviously I could go away and learn Chinese but I feel like that would take longer... 🤣
Haha I'm not a Mandarin speaker but I do like to listen to the original audio in combination with the subtitles to learn a bit more 😂😂😂 so the background music did bother me at times, it surprised me quite a lot!
I just revisited the drama to dwell on the little details. On the fox fur coat part, she initially wanted to PAWN the coat, to get the money for her mom's medicines but not to lose the coat completely since she holds it very dearly. When you pawn an item, you are taking out a loan using your valuable as collateral. The pawnbroker will agree to give you a certain amount of cash and hold your item until you have paid back the loan amount plus interest and fees. Mind you, she made the coat for Ye Shi An. Hence, Gu Jiusi giving her money will not solve her problem, she still loses the precious coat.
I found Destined to be the only watchable Chinese period drama released this summer.
As an only drama watcher I am sad to hear that C-drama land hates on strong, smart, independent FLs and they always tone them down.
As I been watching it until now, it always shows how both her and the husband think alike and many times they are shown coming together to the same decision or having the exact same idea. Like the ML can't be less wiser than his wife in some aspects.
It looks like they definitely downgraded the FL intellect and upgraded the ML just to make them meet in the middle.
On the other his father and mother dynamics is more clear in that sense. The wife is the one which led the business and the family and thanks to her abilities the family fortune existed while the husband was supporting her, was understanding and protecting the family when the times called for it.
Liu Xueyi acted great as a villain, so sly! So Angelic in Heroes of Wulin!
Exactly my thoughts put eloquently into words. I was anticipating it so much before it aired. Now I feel like rewatching A Dream of Splendor.
Completely agree!
Sis I don't even watch dream of splendor and not interested on watching both of them 😂
A dream of splendor was so boring and dull....and the lack of chemistry was so off putting. The drama was beautiful in cultural aspects. .but story was just bland.
I could kinda understand why they made the FL less helpful at the beginning of the drama. The novel!FL is after all too intelligent for her age so I’m okay with the movie!FL gradually building up her business skills and experience overtime. But with the appearance of Luo Zi Shang at the brothel and his playing “that girl is interesting” trope too early in the story, I lost faith in the writers of this drama. In the novel, Luo Zi Shang was introduced much later after the downfall of the ML family. One of his first appearance was when he and his men were searching for the food speculator (it’s the FL) and the FL pretended to be a helpless lady to fool him. After her scheme succeeded, she planned to make an escape via boat. LZS managed to chase her down to the port. He then met that helpless pretty lady from the other day (i.e. the FL but he still didn’t know who she really was). She gracefully greeted him, gave him her umbrella, and calmly walked away. When LZS realised she was the culprit he was looking for, she had successfully escaped right under his nose. I think that would leave a much bigger impression on LZS than the FL’s broadcasting her life in public lol.
I hate when scriptwriter think they could write it better than the author, the novel's original plot is so much better :(
I agree with u!
@@yuhyi0122I mean, what do they think the novel is famous in the first place😳? All the dramas they made somehow all have a garbage plot because they think people want them to change the plot line.
Do you know if the book was translated into english?
@@Dori1703 novelupdates has links to 12 chapters, plus there's an mtl translation out there
I love your rant videos and this is the ultimate rant. 😂 Thinking how you've made it through all of this you've been torturing yourself with some pretty bad dramas. 辛苦了！And thank you always for your recommendations, they never fail!
I had high hopes because it's Bai Jingting, but yes, perhaps I was expecting too much. Let's just move on guys. Thank you for your updates AvenueX🌷🙏🏻😊
I really like the original novel story. I like the drama too mainly because of the cast acting is amazing and some plot are kept the same. But, as the novel readers, I agree there's somehow 'something's missing' feeling. But anyway I still enjoy the drama, and can recommend it.
I'm very hooked for this drama. So far the most interesting I've watched on a long time. I'm in Mexico and just now iQiyi app is launching a chapter each day. This is the second one from Bai Jinting that I watch. Ty for the review
5:14 Fun Fact! She was the Divine Healer Hua Jin in the drama The Blood of Youth❤
Who are you referring to, the females leads maid? I thought she was the doctor in Blood of Youth and she was in Who Rules The World. That young actress is great! I hope to she her in a few parts as well. 💃🏽
Hehehe I could recognize her!
Ok the fur thing at the beginning did really not make any sense but I still like the drama quite a lot😂👍
Yes... Liu Xue Yi look soooooo good in this drama... 😍
Liu Xue Yi (Luo Zi Shang) is really a VERY GOOD ACTOR and very handsome
First noticed him in The Blood of Youth as a very handsome Monk. No Hair to cover imperfection, but he is still very handsome no matter which angle. Looking at him, he seems all natural, no PS, I might be wrong. If he did have, then his PS was very good. But I still don't think he did PS.
He's a very good actor, but always a supporting role. He is more deserving to be in Main Role compared to those who can't act but always getting Main Roles.
Hope more production companies give him the chance
I've read 60 chapters of the original novel, I didn't continue since I didn't want to spoil the drama. So far I love Bai Jingting and Song Yi, they fit perfectly. I also really like the cinematography too. I just wish they didn't change this empowering story this way. Still it is nice to see a novel I really liked come to life❤
Hi!! I just want to ask where did you read the novel from ? Could it be mtled? I would really appreciate it if you share a link ❤
I have the books, I actually think these two suit the characters very much
What ending? Happy or bad
@@RockBison-qb3of happy!
Hi where i can read the book is it available for online reading ?
I haven’t read the novel, but overall in terms of entertainment value, production quality, acting and dramatic tension, this is still a good drama to watch. I think the chemistry between the two leads is great and it’s a key element making this drama works.
I thought I was imagining the whispering and put it down to bad recording. The off camera sounds are very noticeable in places, with dialogue being drowned out by what sounded like a generator in a couple of scenes. There is a place for dubbing, folks.
I am currently on EP8 and the FL, although her acting is good, just annoys me lol. I get she's meant to be smart, calculating etc, but her actions just seem very strange to me, like broadcasting her whole life in a brothel, crying and running away when he offered her gold instead of the fur coat, etcetc lmao. I do like seeing the relationship develop, both of them gradually seeing a new side to life thanks to the other. One thing iqiyi never disappoints with is definitely the cinematography. The lighting, colour palettes, camera angles - stunning!
I appreciate the script where true love prevails. Unlike so many other dramas where the girl is chased by at least 3 men and the FL just hangs them on until she chooses the man in the final ep, Song Yi in this one tells her first love she is now married and he should keep his distance. She also turned down the crazy dude. Her love for BJT by going through the finger torture and finally pretending to be dead were precious - very rare in drama land.
I haven’t read the novel, so have no basis to be disappointed in any differences. For me, having watched 16 episodes, this drama is charming and entertaining because the acting is good and the lead couple are absolutely adorable!
As a original book fan, I 100% agree with your opinion. Watching this drama really gave me pain T-T
I agree with all the points you mentioned. That scene at the brothel was cringe it felt weird watching it. And the ML voice always shocked me, like why are you whispering? But it is by far one of the best Costume drama released this year.
I was going to watch this, but after finding out that they have disempowered all the female characters like that I don't much feel llike it anymore.
I wonder if the novel is available to read anywhere in English...
I will watched this coz of Bai Jingting and Zhang Rui😁
I haven't check it but I like Liu Xueyi. Since you said he's very good looking here, I'll check this. 😂😂
Spot on❤
truely. i got turned off by the drama when i saw the first scene of the FL rushing to confront the ML about the fox coat, doesnt make sense at all.
I’m enjoying it as a spectacle-I think I would prefer it as a more serious domestic drama, but the production decided to go in this over-the-top direction, which is fun, but not very involving emotionally. I have to say the music and the big, somewhat garish sets remind me of that awful “General and I” from 2017, but this production is a bit prettier over all.
I thought I was the only one annoyed by the BGM. I just want to hear them talk. The music just took away any tension created by banter.
I actually like this drama. It made me subscribed to iQIYI. I can’t stand the other dramas that are too heavy. There’s nothing wrong with the costumes in my opinion. They look the same as the other period dramas to me.
Oh, now I want to read the original novel! I'm enjoying this drama very much. I love such energetic, positive characters as these two. And so much chemistry! Also, I always find the less aristocratic roles and more business roles in period dramas refreshing. ❤
it is mehh .not annoying to watch but not that i would wait to watch ...
Ai Mee is really beautiful young girl, she is also in the drama QHO RULES THE WORLD
ML actor be doing ASMR production on his own
I have only watched 10 episodes. Im having a hard time continuing because the show is not interesting enough for me, which is sad because i was really looking forward to this show. IDK maybe i will push through and eventually i will be more interested. Right now when i fly towards you is the only cdrama where i am actively looking forward for new episodes.
You are so right about the illogical actions of the lead character. I gave it up after ep 1. The fox fur scenario really put me off about her intellect and now hearing from you about how they weakened the female lead's role I doubt if I will bother with this drama. It is a pity because I really like Liu Xiu Yi but I am not a fan of Bai Jing Ting so I will wait for a better show. Thanks for saving me the time.
That's why the people always say the drama should be seperated from orig. novel
Are you watching "Sisterhood"? :) I‘d love to see a review in case you do. I love the gangster ML & the pirate + Nan Lan couple :D
Romance of people in their 40-50s is very over looked but their dynamic is so fun.
what service is that on
@@KhalilJolibois IQIYI, the first few episodes are on RUclips too
I actually thought this plasticky, weird-cutting, unnecessary stitches/embroidery thing is totally standard of idol costume dramas in c-drama land... When I checked the first ep of Bridgerton, I was like, whoa! Their costumes are like Chinese idol costume dramas! that's why I extra appreciate a handful of c-dramas just bc of their costumes.
lol pls dont get me started on bridgerton 😂 i loved the novel series. the show, not so much 😢
Totally agree, in bridgerton the dresses have too many accessories and shiny things 😂
i don't get it.. if drama makers don't intend to follow the original novels, why would they say it's an adaptation?
just make original srcipts and don't use false advertisement to rope in novel readers into watching
I'm shouting "I agree" at every illogical plot point you mentioned. Why go to the person who bought an item? Why have such an intimate conversation in public? Why did she allow the Mayor's son to humiliate her in public when she could have chosen a more private setting for the meeting with the military buyer? It made no sense.
The BGM is indeed too loud! But the whisper-like voice of the ML, I can accept! Just take it as his characteristic! Not everyone speaks in a nice, booming voice 😆
I think if he doesn't do that, his voice will be too low
I enjoy this drama so far, and I really like the acting esp! But I do agree with you, they switched the roles around and I didn't like that. I was waiting for another great and intelligent Female Lead, but they gave us a rather run down Female Lead to work with. I'm still going to continue watching this series for the same reason as you, to see if this drama maintains a reasonable level of logic since I'm already half way through.
I've enjoyed this drama, any idea where to find the english translation of the novel?
Love the outfit AvenueX!
Wow, I don't think I'll even try and watch it after hearing all of that, it is so infuriating for them to take a story with a strong FL just to make her dependent on the ML in the adaptation.
He sometimes helps, but the heavy lifting is done by the FL, imho. Enjoying this.
Try first! I actually enjoyed this one!
For me the best 2023 "Gone With the rain" 10/10 👍👍👍❤
Agreed … Gone with the rain is much more better than Destined.
I started watching that have been meaning to go back. Glad you like it. I’ll pick it up later. Thanks 💃🏽
@@metas519 completely agree ^^
@@bellabermudas The story just gets better and has a lot of twists.
@@khatemel2968 Thanks will check it out tonight.💃🏽
I had no knowledge of the original story, and I felt that the FL was portrayed as a ‘Mary Sue’, that is, a character who immediately excels at everything she tries. After watching your clip, I realised that this was because she was shown to have no Business savy or political understanding when the drama started, but then, to get the story going, all her Business venture immediately had to be successful, without the audience ever seen her actually ‘learning’ any of it. This makes sense if the person is introduced as already having some knowledge when the drama starts, but because she was made to be so clueless in the beginning, her sudden switch to Business-woman felt undeserved.
Thank you Avenue X ❤
Bai ting in my mind is always the " Gu nangyi" in the rise of the Phoenixes...i so loved his character and performance along with Ni Ni that i couldn't overcome " Gu nangyi" .
I think i have a problem 😅
I can.only see an extension of Gu nangyi growing up..
I feel bad for myself since xiao Bai is talented , i can't appreciate other roles of him ..
😢
Glad I caught this. Biggest reasons for me not to watch a CD:
1) Bad/unoriginal script & bad edit - rely on too many tropes, such as miscommunication or no communication, mountains out of mole hills/pettiness. (A female student goes to imperial college was an an act of self-torture on my part - the scene set ups, edits 🤦♀️).
2) Voice Dubbing
3) Costume and set design.
this drama does not have any of the troupes listed, story is quite fresh
and the characters are still very strong...everyone dubbed themselves
this couple have no misunderstanding throughout, easily one of the nicest couples
and the costumes looks good, you have to check for yourself tbh
I also found it hard to digest that the female lead clever's up after a few episodes, but was a dumbass in the first episode when she went to the buyer to get her stuff back without even paying him back instead of going to the seller
Ai mi future leading lady for yrs to come
Haven't read the book but listened to the audio drama, which was A+++ amazing. I knew something was off in the first few episodes of the drama, but continued watching since the casting is so good, but the plot just got more and more weird, with increasing number of inconsistencies and odd pacing. I gave up at ep 8
Lyr knows she wont be able to confront her father's concubine and that it would be fruitless to approach the concubine to return the money. She is desperate to get medicine for her sick and frail mother, that is why her only desperate solution is to appeal to the buyer who is rich and does not really need the fur cloak. As we all onlookers know, its not logical. But she was desperate. Her mother's condition deteriorated because the mean concubine withheld the funds for her medicine, (on purpose, so the main mistress of the house would die , so that then, she the concubine can legally usurp her position, i think......
I do agree that the over embroidered garments are unnecessary, the budgeted funds could well be used for something else, maybe on the scenes that the Fl n ML was travelling through the dessert . Since they are going to survive anyway, maybe 'create' surviving tools for them to make the scenes less wearisome to sit through to watch (for the viewers )??!!😞 Just a thought....thank you for sharing your insights. ❤
when will you do Eagle Snow Lord? I cant focus on that one lol
Thanks for the review~! I was interested but since it got illogical parts and doesn't follow the novel I'd probably drop since was interested in the business savvy strong FL
if you havent read the novel,you feel anything bad in the drama tbh
Watched upto episode 10 and stopped was waiting for your review 😊😊😊😊...guess I can continue
Considerando que Liu Yuru tiene 15 años no me parece tan mal que su personaje sea inseguro. Al contrario, estoy un poco cansada de protagonistas que son perfectas en todo desde un inicio y me gusta ver personajes con errores que cambian y se desarrollan.
Wow it got aired so fast, the censorship goes smoothly?
Thank you!
What a pity! This is one of my favorite novels exactly because the FL is the driving force.
What about The Love You Give Me who star Wang Yuwen and Wang Ziqi. What kind annalizes about the writers and the directors and all in all drama
Hello AvenueX!
I enjoy watching your reviews.
Can you also make a review of Hidden Love starring Zhao Lusi and Chen Zhe Yuan?
Oops... 😅
@@bapyongukgukguk2352😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Does anyone know where I may be able to find the English translated version of the original story? I’m enjoying the series. But would really love to read the original story… in English. Thank you so much
Even though I'm not reading the novel, I'm kinda annoyed with the first episode. By the time I manage to watch it till episode 4, I need to stop for a while and watch other dramas. I still wanna watch it because I like the other casts like you said. Hope to continue later.
Destined is quite fun and for the most part really enjoyable... Really agree with the criticism. Maybe the scriptwriter/s changed things so that both main leads get character development throughout the drama...Really hoping the script improves in the second half
Well something that you mention are true but by far this is a really good drama, one of the best of this year, I really love it I watched ep 27 so good it made me cry😢. Anyway everyone have their opinion I haven't read the original book ao bye far I love this drama
AvenurX I've listened attentively to your first impression on this drama. " DESTINED " . If as you said that the original is so much better than how it's being portrayed, are their steps that the writer can follow up with. Or is it a matter of when it sold it's hand off.
Personally I haven't read the book , but with all the faults that you have mentioned I'm enjoying the drama.
Just finished that drama 1 hour ago and I thought it was pretty good ! Loved the leads relationship development and chemistry but would have preferred less focus on politics.
I've watched 4 episodes and completely agree that the script doesn't make much sense - she wants the fir coat from him and doesn't take the gold that he offers, she cries all night that he will divorce her, the crazy brothel scene with the sword, his father, who has left him do whatever he wants, now expects his wife to make him a mature person, the in-laws give her more support than 21st century in-laws would do. Idk what is the excuse for not marrying the princess in the novel, but in the drama they won't get away with their lame explanation. From what you said about the novel, it's appalling that they changed the essence of the story. But for those like me, who haven't read it, it could still be a watchable drama with good acting, if things actually made sense.
I dropped it because of the illogical things sadly. I couldn't take it.
Unpopular opinion : I prefer to watch Destined over New Life Begin due to good acting of ML/FL/ all supporting casts😍. But, I do agree that there are some plot hole in drama such as the FL rejected the gold given by the ML at ep 1, mother of FL is being indecisive to leave her bad husband at ep 15🤔.
I dont understand why NLB has such hight ratings. The cast is good, the chemistry between ML/FL is great, I love Bai Jingting as sixth prince, but the story is rather blah. And it is definitely not about female empowering, the whole plot is centered around the 6th prince. And why on earth does the princess stay with a man ( 5th prince) she hates?
@@fuchurZero yep. The princess has too overbearing personality which unbearable to watch her relationship with the 5th prince and I lost interest in NLB halfway through😅.
Well I think it is more believable for the FL with her indecisiveness in the first few episodes of drama, logically speaking with her age and knowing that she was never once directly involved in any of her father's clothing business, we need some learning curve, we need to sprinkle some failures in her business and make it realistic. After all, she was all prepared to be a scholar/govt. official wife, to be Ye's wife. She learned etiquette, painting, embroidery, music, to be reserved, etc etc, to be a well-behaved domestic woman of a noble family. We need to see the shift of reserved LYR to the business-savvy LYR.
But indeed I agree, as the story proceeds and enters the heavier part of the drama, the writer significantly reduces her screen time. And you can barely hear her name mentioned in the dialogue, meanwhile, her husband, Gu Jiushi is mentioned here and there even when he is not in the scene. I need to see her in actions, her decision-making process, her meticulous execution of plans, etc.. Despite all of those, I wouldn't say she is the type of weak heroine. It is fascinating to see a powerful and upright lady, who does not hesitate to show her fragile side, her worries, cries, and helpless feelings. She reminded me a lot of Liguang Qingkui character from Starry Love.
and abt the logic of the script, yes, the holes are everywhere. So I just finished the drama, said after 5 years they show us their first son which does not looks like a 5 y.o boy ... I didn't remember they mentioned that Yuru got pregnant during the reign of Feng Yu?? They travel here and there to distribute ransom, and before Feng Yu, both of them are in exile.. How tf in 5 years they suddenly have a boy who look like at least 6 or 7 y.o 😂😂😂
No creo que presenten al protagonista como un ser perfecto y de hecho al inicio incluso estuve pensando en dejar el drama por actitudes que tenía. Se lo mostraba immaduro e insensible. Una escena que para nada me gustó fue cuando Gu Jiu Si amenaza a Liu Yuru con divorciarse de ella después de haber visto como le afectó la primera vez que se lo propuso en la noche de bodas. Me pareció bastante ruin y rastrero por su parte utilizar algo que sabes que ha hecho daño a alguien para amenazarle
I want to see some body who are rich enough money to spent n make better drama which will stick to the org story telling the way it should be again for this Destined.
Idk I guess because I don’t have reference of the source material I have a more positive experience with the drama. Maybe it’s my western eyes and ears 🤷🏾♂️
yeah i couldn't get past the passive vibe of FL and dropped
I have previously enjoyed your critiques however this time? Not so much. It is interesting you are concerned that the FL doesn't compare to the novel's portrayal as a wise strong woman considering you did not read it. Your concern as to the costuming issues didnt interest me in the slightest way. I believe you have been a bit harsh and can be discouraging for anyone to start watching it who has trusted your past opinions. I am also delighted, as you are, to hear natural voices rather than dubbing. I don't understand why you found fault with the ML's speech pattern. Not all are privileged to have elocution lessons. Since we are half way thru this drama and I am so enjoying it, I hope you will raise your rating to encourage, rather than discourage International fans of Chinese Drama. I look forward to your final review.
i agree. please read the novel 😁
I didn't like "Destined". I dropped it! 🤔
The original novel is quite good, though I gave up because it could not make me addicted, but it is good reading first chapters. The drama is nothing compared with the novel, it nearly ruined the characters.
Some viewers joked that this drama is "Blood of Youth" cast reunion - Same director who likes to work with familiar faces. But I feel like the director is more of a hire-on than one who has complete control over the production.
Cdramas adapted from big female lead stories ending up weakening their female leads should be expected. A woman is "allowed" to be intelligent, strong, capable and etc as long as she doesn't outshine "her man".
Some mentioned that BJT being the top billing influenced how the script treated his character. It's likely that main male cast members overall have bigger fanbases than main female cast members. The production took that into consideration giving male cast fans what they'd prefer to see. In a twisted way, this probably reduces often irrational hatred towards any FL, and by extension, FL actress.
I also dropped these series although I love actors, the script is not my cup of tea. Maybe I will return for the actors in the future
Actually dropped Destined on ep 5 (same reaction as you for the brothel and even worstly turned off by the FL depriving the ML of food to force him to study - that read as abuse to me) but I'm glad to hear there's a novel this drama is based on and that it sounds quite interesting. I will check it out! 😁
I had my reservation to watch this drama because I really don’t watch Song Yi dramas. I do like Bai Jingting but I gave it a try and to my surprise it’s quite good and enjoyable. They both have good chemistry together! If you rate this drama not even 1 gold mine why are you saying it’s good !? Lol I disagree, it’s good drama watch it.
I remain hopeful about Esther Yu and Zhang Ling He next drama. I keep faith they will write her character mature, smart, cunning and appealing
I love to watch a clever FL, scriptwriter please do your job well, why weakens the FL characters???
It's just sad that they keep thinking that main characters have to be "perfect" from get go, the female character meek, pretty and basically garnish to the male characters
even for adaptation for specifically female-driven story!
A waste of Song Yi's talent! We were robbed!
I want to see graceful, cunning, wise female lead!!!!!!!
I don't know what the reviewer was watching but I saw most of the things she cited as being in the novel also in the drama. Followed Destined faithfully, partly because there is not much else on right now, but found I liked the interactions between the main characters very satisfying in how they developed into a solid relationship. So far, it looks like it is gaining much more approval by fans than 'one goldmine or less'. Looking forward to more of the action.
While watching the first 7 episodes, i was thinking what would AvenueX think about this series? 😂 and, i thought the FL was supposed to be a strong character 🤔 knew something didnt sit right 😂 now i know (sigh)
I watched remake first.....and than original...original was def better.....it's due to AA...he made that role his...with his acting..swag...action..in his style...which no one can copy.
As a fan of the book that I read and love, I can not continue to watch it after 6 episodes. It is a bad adaptation I am so disappointed 😢
Hello from Brazil ❤❤❤
i notice many youtube n tiktok videos shows many silly people having public burst . i guess this is the behaviour now. People think its ok. I dont. I'm still old fashion in that sense.
Thank you, Avenue X, I think I will skip this drama unless your final rating goes up considerably. I think A Dream of Splendor may have set my expectations too high for female-centric period dramas. By the way, your outfit and hair look beautiful!
Having not read the novel, I was actually surprised that the male lead’s family is a matriarchy (what does his father even do other than raise his house plants…?) and that his relationship with the female lead involves her immediately becoming the head of their household and financially supporting him through his career goals (maybe since you’re right in that his character starts off not flawed enough). Even though I too enjoy reading Chinese novels with strong female leads, but that setup actually was so shocking for me. The male lead even jokes that he’s a kept man in a recent episode… which isn’t untrue since he has a minimum wage job and she’s running a luxury beauty product business lol.
This is very different from Meng Hua Lu, in which the strong female lead is actually financially and power dependent on the male lead… since she’s just a small country girl with a startup business and he’s a successful high ranking official…
這部小說是五代十國的故事嗎？那個周燁的故事好像周世宗柴榮，那兩個節度使感覺像劉知遠和郭威，主角後面不知道會不會變成趙匡胤？
I’m half way through this story and although they’ve graduated to sleeping in the same bed, they still haven’t even kissed. They’ve been together for at least six months and weathered the worst storm of their lives, yet he seems fine with their arrangement. Not typical of a 20 year old man. Also, the FL is really too old to be playing this part-she’s 34 playing a “brilliant” teen. Really has anyone had a teen been that adept at everything? I’m watching this specifically for Bai Jing Ting because I love his acting and facial expressions, but the FL doesn’t work for me. When will these two ever kiss?