Are you the one is soooo good! The sense of humour, the FL and ML did an amazing job in their deliveries… I thought I would get bored cos I wait everyday for the episodes to drop ! I didn’t first drama I followed faithful
I totally enjoy "Are You The One", as other commenters have stated there's nothing "CONFUSING", about it. The leads are amazing, they are both gorgeous, the secondary cast are also fantastic. It's humorous and keeps you hanging out for the next episodes. Watch it......10/10
About Are You the One, never read the novel but by far I’m hooked and didn’t feel confused about any plot. Actually it’s the mystery, unknown, kept me interested. If everything was explained clearly at the beginning, like goals of the story, relationships,etc it would have been so predictable and boring.
Same. I never read the novel and the plot isn't confusing to me. For those that watch these type of drama should catch already who she is with the few scenes they show early on. I already guess at the beginning who she is. The drama doesn't do anything great, but its good enough. I actually prefer the beginning where they play a couple and try to strive at business than the actual plot.
Forget this summer, this whole year is weak in terms of C-dramas. I am fan of Costume dramas, and last year, by this time of the year, we already had a few good towards decent dramas. But this year, we barely had 2-3 dramas, which stand out. I just looked at my "Plan to watch" list of dramas on MDL, and I still have so many historical c-dramas saved there. Some since last year, which were supposed to be released by now. Not much is left from 2024, and I have no hope left for this year. Idk why all the platforms were so restrained this year into releasing big budget/big cast names dramas.
PLEASE NEVER STOP MAKING VIDEOS! I love your analysis/ critiques even if I don't agree with some. I feel like a lot of the things you say, I totally agree with. You bring so much perspective and discussion and I feel like I can never properly explain those little details I notice that make me feel iffy about the drama. I've been binging your videos and I love the perspective. I can never have a conversation about these things so it's so nice to know that I'm not the only one who feels something in certain dramas.
@@laurynmadsenwell many mistake her but overtime as you watch her videos you understand she has been at the drama scene for more than a decade which has unfortunately made her expectations mature and has grown indifferent to plots like are you the one.
@@starnight9138same,. I've been watching cdrama's now for 10 years and I'm so picky now. Even I like the actors if I don't like it, then I will drop it easily why would waste my time.
I really like Are You The One and the lack of information in the beginning is refreshing and it fits the story, since both leads also are in the dark about a lot when it comes to each other, we even get the first scene that already gives a hint of a secret that will be confirmed after 17 episodes, but the 16 previous ones serve for us to feel alongside the discomfort, betrayal and longing alongside the characters, even more so than if it had come earlier I feel the banter and push and pull between the leads is pleasant too, they're both so smart and driven, I lookforward for their scenes
I almost enjoy and don't enjoy ur review😅 No hate meant or directed towards you. I totally get your point because some of these points are something I notice too when I watch these c-dramas. The issue is I might still end up enjoying some of these dramas until I hear ur review. Then ur review drops in and it suddenly becomes glaringly unbearable to watch😂 We, an international audience, manage to watch it probably because we don't have the intricate details of history, era, dynasty, costumes etc.. so that part of the brain is constantly switched off. However I know I don't tolerate period costume dramas or even modern era dramas from my own country because I notice all the flaws in it - that part of my brain just refuses to shut up😂 So I totally get ur pov. Also I have noticed that c-dramas are so much into fillers that it becomes absolutely boring. If those unwanted fillers are cut off then the dramas would become a bit more fast paced and much bearable to watch. My conclusion is c-drama should cut down the episodes from 30-40 episodes to 15-20 episodes. However I still love your reviews. So if I love a drama or lead characters, I will consciously not watch ur review until I'm done with it.😊
Agreed. As a person from the west, I turn off my logical mind while watching a light and easy drama. Light on the subject easy on the eye. I watch what catches my fancy at the time but I don’t have tolerance for silly female leads and outlandish storylines. I’m captivated by dramas such as The Advisors Alliance and its sequel at the moment. Avenue X mentioned this drama in one of her past videos, that I value tremendously as it puts me in touch with quality dramas. I highly recommend picking up on some of her suggestions when she offers them as examples. This drama focuses on a historical figure Sima Yi. Fascinating. Anyway hang in there as there are a few good dramas out there on IQIYI such as The Knockout. 🌸💃🏽
Yeah it’s like the first say 20 episodes is great and awesome and all but then it starts to go downhill? Then you wonder if you should continue watching or just go watch the ending
Agree with you. Some drama i watch till the end before i watch avenueX review. But I really enjoy avenueX review, it almost like educational. I always feel i gain more knowledge after I watched avenueX
I LOVE ARE YOU THE ONE！ its THE BEST scrip and story telling I have ever watched in C drama! I was hooked on episode one. It is sooo good, typically it takes me a lot to get into a series and some of them I never finish but this one is so intriguing that I watched 27 episodes in 3 days ( and I have a full time job and two young kids) I just could not put it down! The plot makes sense and it flows naturally, it is easy to understand and logical. There are a lot of series where I don’t understand exactly what is going on or it wouldn’t make sense and too abstract (for example 四海重明） I also think that visually it is quite beautiful but that’s just in my amateur eyes. I do agree that the acting is not the best. 张晚意 does dramatic scenes very well but I don’t think he does everyday scenes very well partly he just doesn’t seem very natural to me, like he is too nervous or too stiff. I think it might be an age and experience thing. I find that the older actors in these period dramas are a lot more watchable for example like 陈晓，or 林更新. Maybe they are just able to be more relaxed because of their life experiences. Nevertheless 张晚意 is not horrible and the FL is okay so far as well. And I do agree that there’s no chemistry between the male and female leads, and yes he does not do the jokes well. But despite he short comings it is the most intriguing C period drama that I’ve seen this year!
I disagree with your review of Are You the One, I am hooked onto the drama and love the story and writing and acting of the 2 leads. To me, there is so much heart and intrigue that supersedes the technical failings you pointed out. I'm a pretty picky and discerning c-drama watcher but I love this drama so much.
Regarding Are you the one, I gave up after reading 58 chapters of 131 chapters in total, and enjoy the drama instead. I don’t care about the set and lighting because I’ve been focusing with their acting and their role in the drama instead
Drama : Are You The One 1-16= Romance Comedy+Slice of life 17-19= Thriller I'm telling you this, so you can consider your personal tastes before watching.
@@violetvynot really in terms of plot but there is tension from then on as the plot begins to unravel. The tension stems from the peaceful time in the first part of the drama slowly breaking down into angst. So you may not really feel the impact of the angst if that makes sense? However if you hate the misunderstanding trope you can skip the first part
@@maritareads5229it seems like Bai jingting and Song yi's drama "Destinied". It starting from comedy romance and slice of life. But in the middle of episodes, it turn to be angst and tragedy 🥲🥲 (yet, still so good)
I enjoy Are You The One very much, it’s funny, the writing is smooth (at least for me), I like the plot line. The FL is genius without making other characters dumb for her to look genius. She is ruthless, even when she lost her memory. When she get her memory back she even more badass. I love how she handle people around her. This is one of the most enjoyable drama for me this year, which is not many. I tried to watch love rebellion but can’t pass over the first 5 minutes. I’ll try again if i feel like it.
Are You The One 'wakes up' at Episode 17 when she regains her memory. But yes, it was a loooong wait to Episode 17. The scriptwriters were a bit duh for dragging out the 'get to know the characters' episodes.
Yes, that's what I was thinking exactly. I think five initial episodes would be enough for the viewers to understand what is going on. I'm currently on ep. 18 and can't wait until the next one. By the way, Wang Churan is sooooo charming, sweet and elegant! What a lovely lady! But what do you think about the ML? Do you think there's chemistry between them ??? I can't see any .
@@maggelaki will I miss much if I just skipped to episode 15? I am only at episode 7, so the chemistry doesn’t seem that intense or natural. He is showing that he cares about her but it doesn’t quite feel real to me.
@@violetvy well, don't skip. You' ll miss a lot of vital information about the bandits and all the hussle the ML has to endure from Princess Dowager and the Court, all these political scheming which shows he's in a critical state. So my advise is to fastforward in 1.25 or 1.5 speed and don't miss any (at least that's what I did and spared me a lot of time). It's an interesting story, but the drama unfolds too slow. Have fun anyway ☺☺
@@violetvy He knows full well that he is not her real husband, and he does not have the chemistry with her. She acts normal as a wife because she believes that he is her husband. He set up a guard over himself to protect her but he still fall in love with her.
I am currently watching Are You The One. I really do enjoy the characters, the plot and acting so far. I might be a sucker for a love story trope like that but it’s really enjoyable so far. I love the dynamics between the main couple, his best friend, and their crew.
Are you the one is one of the better C drama I’ve watched for a while. The story is light hearted, funny parts are funny, it makes you laugh and not feel awkward or forced. Characters have good chemistry, everyone has a brain, misunderstandings are quickly resolved and not dragged on forever. The scenes are gorgeous in a lot of the episodes for the budget, and music is good as well. The terminologies that the characters speak has a traditional Chinese feel to it, in contrast to some other shows where there’s a bunch of modern terminology when the setting is the olden days. The show itself also pokes fun at some of the common tropes that C drama has (such is if you have piece of cloth shoved in your mouth you can actually spit it out 😂). The love between the ML and FL flows very naturally, it’s not love at first slight but love that develops through time, like what happens in real life lol. I’ve purchased vip and svip to keep up with the show, it’s honestly too addicting!! One of the better summer drama for sure!
I’m watching Are you the one. It’s okay and I will continue watching. The male costumes are fabulous and very clean. They ironed those costumes very well! I agree with the skin smoothing and make up. It’s tooooo much!
I'm enjoying Are you the one. Very sweet. Now the angst when her memory comes back... I've never read the novel but I have no trouble following the story
It seems like quite a few of us were actually looking forward a low-angst romcom and ❤ Are you the one. So were the people rating it at Douban. I personally like it a lot and hope it sticks the landing.
They have to develop the chemistry later, for now it not good if they have too much chemistry. He is not her real husband, at the moment he does not love her yet. If they develop the chemistry too early then I think it look kind fake, and that not good.
I don't agree with you (u the one) I haven't read the novel, but I essentially like the development of the plot. I like how open and sweet the heroine is, while being smart and without the terrible Asian grimaces of a little girl. I like how the hero gradually falls captive to her charm. I don't know what will happen next, but so far up to episode 17 everything is very interesting. The pace of the narrative gradually increases. The heroes make mistakes. A pleasant balance of humor and romance. For the taste of a person who grew up on Hollywood, this is good.
Why didn't you watch Melody of Golden Age? I loved it. Both leads were excellent. My only complaint was the dubbing of Ding Yuxi's voice. I saw a BTS clip of the filming of his confession scene where you got to hear Ding Yuxi actually speaking the lines as it filmed. Ah it was so touching - such range of vocal nuance. At one point he was whispering. They didn't do the drama any favors by dubbing Ding Yuxi.
Are You the One show is captivating. The plot is good so far and you can't tell who is really the villain yet. It is like peeling onions, layer by layer.
I totally disagree with your review of "Are you the one". I love "Are you the one" a lot and it very entertaining to me. It is so funny and I laugh a lot. Also, I love the chemistry between the two leads. A lot of my friends love it too. I still love to watch your review though 😊😊😊!
I read Liu Zhouji's novel/ Are You the One. I think the chemistry is good, and even though the story is slow. Thanks to their adorable interactions as a fake couple, it kept me going. There are changes to the story from the original novel, but they are good changes.
In the novel they have sexual relations in a military camp, under the influence of aphrodisiacs. and in the drama... Miantang's memory, recovered early.
@@cassball7 Miantang's character as a bandit is further strengthened, than in the novel. Her cruelty, and her calm nature when facing something that happens.
@@RavenRui01 thank you for the response. I don’t mind a slow story if it’s good. I like the drama. It’s not the best I’ve ever seen but it’s good. I will continue to watch.
Sound analysis AvenueX!I am currently watching " Are you the one" ( ep24) and I am enjoying it but you got a point: giving hints since the first episodes would have given more " sparks" and attracked more viewers. The drama became better after because it is indeed a good storyline.
.......Lol. The part you talked about @23:00 reminds me of my 3 year old nephew. Whenever he tries to hide from us, he likes to close his eyes, thinking if he does that, then nobody will see him 😂😂😂😂
I enjoy Are You the One. The chemistry is fun though I'm slightly frustrated by how long the lie goes on. I didn't feel it was too confusing, though. I think the exposition was enjoyable. It took a little long to get to that chemistry, but honestly it felt more realistic that way than him suddenly loving her. I haven't finished Love's Rebellion because I wanted to wait until it finished then binge, but I really like it. I'm happy with a slow, chemistry driven show. It's not trying to be super serious, which you get from the very first scene, and I love it. Totally fair we don't agree, my level of criticism is usually lower than yours. I always really enjoy your more technical criticisms because I feel like I learn more about the industry and production and even culture at times, but I think that's getting drowned out lately with the feeling that I'm being told I'm liking bad things with statements versus opinions haha. But I just need to remember to finish a series before I come for your opinion, because at that point I've already moved on from the show hahah.
Ms. X nailed it again! I had to laugh, when stories are so slow that you'd rather watch the cement dry after a rainstorm....I admit I've searched online with some stories just to find out what happens because the story is slow. As for the lighting, I've often seen programs where the color looks wrong, and I shout at the TV set "get a fresnel with a gel magenta 167 guys! What's wrong with you folks, don't you know how to blend colors to get light and read the electrical plot? Haven't you heard of Leko light strips?" This refers to dummies who cannot read the electric draft for a theatrical lighting plot of how the directional lights should give a natural effect to a drama. I figure two problems, first they may not have enough people to hang the lights or the people who dress the sets are unaware that the pigment of the paints on the flats have an undertone that doesn't reveal itself until the lighting is on. Even costumers, at least a good one, pays attention to how a scene will be lit as to how to have the best effect for the clothing and the appearance of the actors. As for the 'stupid spy' drama, it sounds almost like a comedy from Ms. X's description. I might watch if I want to experience a s-l-o-w day, but not likely. Kudos Ms. X. Again your commentary reveals an accurate review which provides the rest of us with better TV viewing. Many kind thanks.
Yes, I am REALLY enjoying "Are You The One". I am not Chinese and I learn a lot from Avenue X: Chinese culture and society, entertainment, dramas, movies, technical, linguistic and cinematic aspects... I often agree with her reviews, but I also often disagree. Reviews are not definitive and absolute truths, they always imply the subjectivity of those who make them. (If you read film reviews by reputable critics, you will see that they also differ - for some a certain film is trash, for others the same film is a masterpiece). So, I usually go my own way, select what I will watch according to my interests and tastes and I appropriate or reject, drop or become obsessed, pamphlet or simply forget. I like to hear Avenue X's opinion only after I have experienced a drama and formed my own opinion about it, because that way I will better understand her criticism, enrich my knowledge, and agree or disagree with her classification.
I’ve personally watched both “Are You the One” and “Love’s Rebellion.” I’m currently on episode 18 of “Are You the One” and have finished “Love’s Rebellion.” While I started watching “Love’s Rebellion” because I like the main actor and actress, I wouldn’t recommend the drama to anyone. The story is plain and forgettable, almost as if the writers and directors were too exhausted to come up with something engaging, leaving the series to feel like it was completed by AI. The chemistry between the main characters is lukewarm at best-it could have been much more passionate, but it wasn’t. Between the two, I prefer “Are You the One.” At least there’s a mystery that keeps me somewhat interested, and I’m hoping the drama picks up in the later episodes.
I understand what you mean about Are You The One but the humor was so enjoyable that I liked watching it. Plus with all the other world setup, it made sense for how it was constructed
Personally, I really enjoy the drama "A lonely hero's journey". Starting from the 1st ep it got me hooked to the storyline.I really like the way it has potrayed the resistant against japanese during the sino-japanese war times. In my opinion Joseph zeng & Chen duling did a great job potraying the characters...
Coming back to this video to correct my outlook on Are You The One. After she regains her memory, the drama really spices things up. I like their dynamics now, thank God. 20+ episodes in and keeping my fingers crossed it continues to stay at least as entertaining as now. 🤞🤞🤞
I thought Are you the One was really slow at first so I dropped it for a while. I went back to it and realized that once she gets her memory back, it gets really good and I am hooked now.
I’m watching “Are you the one”. Enjoyable and easy to follow. I’m watching up until episode 19. And, being impatient to follow 2 episodes/day to know what next, I’ve looked for the novel 😁. It seems the plot may have changed from the novel.
I also enjoy watching Are You The One. I was surprised that it had a comedic turn. There were moments of laughing out loud for me. I disagreed, I think the ML has a lot of micro-expressions that I enjoyed. Especially, when his lying caught up with him and he has to keep on lying. I think both leads are really good and interacted well and their characters are believable. I finished Love's Rebellion and agreed that it was bad. Most of the time, it was background noise and I don't even understand Mandarin. LOL! I think I mainly invested purely for ZLH because of Princess Royal. Unlike that drama, this couple has no chemistry. I want to watch A Lonely Hero's Journey but somehow, it doesn't call to me at all so it's a no.
I agree - I’m not familiar with the ML and I thought he had great comedic delivery. I think he’s a good actor. Also think the lead couple have a lot of chemistry.
I am disappointed in this summer C-Dramas as well, mainly because certain ones have not been released yet when during the summer there is more time to watch, and then the ones I wanted to watch are not available unless there is a membership for certain platforms. Dashing Youth being one of them. Ep 22 gone from TH-cam and Strange Tales of Tan Dynasty s 2 gone by ep 6. So oh well.... forget it.
Nah ain't no way she said Are You the One isn't good. Love's Rebellion is booty cheeks though. Everything from the sound to the editing and the choppy ass story was booty cheeks.
I really don't understand why there's so much negativity about the dramas? Yes, I'm not a chinese, but I can't say that I can watch everything in chinese dramaland. I also have quite high standards, but I really enjoy Are you the one. I don't have any confusion about a plot and actor's playing. And why there shoud be chemistry in first 9 episodes? It doesn't make sense. She's not his real wife, he just want to use her to reach his own goals. There's no place for chemistry. But when he was starting to fall in love with her everything has changed. And I don't think this is a good way to judge whole drama just for the 9-10 episodes. You can say that you don't like it, but can't say that it's a bad drama. Honestly, according to your review I tried to watch Strange tales of Tang dinasty, but I can't say it was really interesting for me. I quite enjoyed the characters but not the storyline. I don't have motivation to keep watching it. But earlier I really enjoyed spy drama with Li Xian which you even didn't mention. I liked you previous review but now there's no light in the darkness, so prefer first watch drama and after it come here watch review. But anyway thank you for your videos. I know that you have more experience in dramaland and more knowledge about China, so it's interesting to know your opinion
I really enjoy watching Are You the One but I do agree with Avenuex especially with the way the drama tells its story. The drama didn't bother telling the background of the story as if they just let the viewers decide what the drama is all about. For one, I am already at Ep 19 yet I still don't know what is Cui Xingzhou's connection to the young emperor. What is his background. If he's a legitimate child, or what is his position in the court. There are so many things that are left undisclosed which really affects my enjoying every time the focus is regarding the court politics.
Maybe you skipped a little?😊 I also do it with palace intrigue sometimes. There is no connection (family I mean) between the kid Emperor and Cui Xinghou. The latter's dad was a general, he "pacified Zenzhou"(whatever that means") and was made a Prince/Lord (depending on the translation) that has been awarded this whole prefecture. Xingzhou's mom was his main wife and Xingzhou their only male child, so he became Lord when his dad died.
Love´s Rebellion, I completely agree. I´m on chapter 22 (because still not watching something else) and I am still not finding conection between the events and past characters, Zhang Ling He is good looking but that´s all, it feels like is being written chapter by chapter.
Good for you. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾I agree as I watch her videos but I’m in control of my drama list. She’s here to provide insight but ultimately it’s the viewer that gives the ratings. Happy drama watching.🌸💃🏽
Ohhh my goodness!! LOL! Well, (and please read till the end) I’ve been devouring “Are You the One” as a starved person would a perfectly cooked New York Strip steak and baked potato to the point that…. I even paid (for the first time ever) the $5.99 to see the express episodes. Why do I love it so? Because… the male lead is playing the exact type of male lead that he played in “Lost You Forever” but this time… he gets the girl.❤. It is incredibly satisfying! I’m in love all over again and feeling so happy for him! Now all that being said, I hear your review and now that you point things out… yeah, I can see these things now and can’t argue the points made but I’m not seeing it with the critical eye of a professional person in the entertainment industry. What an education you are giving us. I wish so much I could have seen this in a version made to your standard. I hope “The Powers That Be” take note❤. As always, looking forward to more of your reviews. Thank you! 👍
@@cleoduxNope. It definitely was not worth it because you can only watch the express episodes on your cell phone!!! They will not allow you to mirror it to your big screen tv. Can you believe that poop? Paying for express only ruins everything for you. Lesson learned and NEVER AGAIN. 👎
Haven’t read or know anything about the novel but found the story of Are You the One easy to follow. Maybe you’re impatient because it’s on air and you can’t wait to see it unfold?
I'm really interested in hearing your thoughts about Snowfall, which to me really stands out from most other dramas this summer. And I'm not usually a fan of that genre, but this immediately hooked me.
@vespertyne2169 she doesn't like 99% of dramas out there. And the ones she doesn't like, I usually enjoy. So I learnt to search and watch the dramas that she dislikes.
@vespertyne2169 she doesn't like 99% of dramas out there. And the ones she doesn't like, I usually enjoy. So I learnt to search and watch the dramas that she dislikes.
Honestly? They wasted a good looking cast. Both actors I’ve enjoyed in others projects but couldn’t watch this drama. It’s too light and easy and fails to capture my attention. Take care🌸💃🏽
Are you The One started out slow and the ML character is so slimy that it almost lost me. I stuck with it and there were 2-3 episodes that were very good. All in all the series suffers from not being tightly focused and sometimes drags our a theme for too long. The episodes after 32 turned out to be quite good and some new twists I have not seen in other dramas before.
I think you are too polite about the Olympics 😂 The drama world just has been really boring Vs the craziness of real life. I can't believe how little I can talk about this year re.cdramas. The Double was the only one which had me excited! 🤷
I wish Avenuex would stop complaining about actors not being pretty or handsome enough for roles. She wants actors with good skills but dismisses actors who aren't obsessed with being beautiful. Of course most (not all) actors who have sold out and are getting plastic surgery constantly because they want to be the most beautiful and praised for their looks won't be as concerned with actually being good at acting. You can't have your cake and eat it too. Give "ugly" actors and actresses a chance too.
She said that about "idol drama", I don't think she has a problem about that in "mainstream drama", because idol drama created for eye candy's actor/actress who have a lot of fanbase or have a potential to attract fans, acting really is a second consideration for idol drama, you often see a medium or bad idol actor/actress got main role in Cdrama land, good script and good acting is really a bonus, that is the capitals game.
@@sunnyshine9510 It doesn't matter that it's "idol drama". Why can't people without surgery, natural Chinese feautures and darker skin be considered beautiful idols? All the insults and beauty standards do is perpetuate colorism and eating disorders in actors and fans.
Interesting point. I did pick up her preference for good looking people in Chinese dramas. I agree that society is infatuated with beauty and Avenue X is no different. While I enjoy her takes on various dramas I do find her definition of beauty is different from mine. Further to the point, acting ability in my book has very little to do with a beautiful person. I applaud beautiful actress who take rough parts that highlight their acting talent. Examples, Hailey Berry, Charlize Theron and Julia Roberts, all these women have won high praise for their rolls in thought provoking films. The Chinese dramas I’ve enjoyed are dramas that have hard core themes, such cop thrillers, drug runners, court dramas etc. All the light and easy dramas or Idol dramas are stress relievers for me. My brain doesn’t have to work too hard but they have to be decent. The cast don’t have to be pretty just decent. An example is the recent Idol drama As Beautiful As You. Entertaining! Totally enjoyed the entire cast. Stick to your guns and take care. 🌸💃🏽
I have to agree about Love's Rebellion. I like the leads so I was looking forward to it. The FL's house was charming and colorful. The initial episodes were amusing. But as it plodded on their chemistry fell flat. All kinds of foreshadowing led up to their journey into the valley where they wanted to find the seven sins manual (or whatever it was called). But when they got there, what should've been a suspenseful adventure was just boring. Just another step in the plot, neither more nor less interesting than anything else. I maybe shouldn't say it, but I don't think male screenwriters are as capable as women of writing characters with emotional depth. If there had been more at stake for more complex characters, perhaps the plot would've had more pizzazz. I gave up watching at around ep. 13.
In relation to Chinese dramas this year I'm curious how many of you guys saw TENDER LIGHT?? I'm surprised nothing much was mentioned at all about that drama in the videos. ASIDE from the ending I found the series to be AMAZING with fantastic acting and chemistry between the 2 leads. TENDER LIGHT is definitely a standout and the BEST cdrama of the year so far for me.
Thanks for the heads-up on A Lonely Hero's Journey. I've like Zeng Shunxi in several dramas, so I had this on my watchlist. I also really like espionage stories and grew up watching James Bond, reading John Le Carre, Len Deighton, and other now classic writers. So, I'm very picky about the espionage being handled well. I'll give this one a miss,
I only started 2/3 and the only watchable one so far, is Are You the One. I agree with your points about it. I was ok just seeing their daily lives with little snippets of Cui Jiu's story and I was starting to get bored but the latest episodes has started to reveal her background so I'm still hanging on. I do think that compared with Love's Rebellion, they have better "chemistry" but I do feel something lacking and I think it has to do with their acting. I'm slowly losing hope for idol historical romancd dramas haha. I am ok with low budget but the acting and story just haven't been giving me anything worthwhile.
I'm spending this summer watching past dramas that I did not see during the time they came out. So I'm kind of glad there's no interesting ones during this time as I won't get distracted.
9:00 You mentioned that ML’s face looks like a paper because his face is evenly done with make up, but then again we all know that every historical drama/fantasy, this is how make up is done. The reason why males look prettier than the women due to make up. This has something to do with burying the hair piece edges while blending it with the face; needs to cover with foundation. Looks unnatural, but we, the audience are used to that. I’m glad you mentioned though. You’re a smart lady. I admire you so much. 😅
Me watching this video knowing damn well I'm having the time of my life this summer too because I'm rewatching the untamed for the 20th time, rather than finding a new drama to watch lmao.
I haven‘t even tried any of the summer dramas… I think the last cdrama I watched was To The Wonder… ugh! I hope there will be a good one soon because I refuse to even start bad or mediocre ones these days
Im currently watching as husband and wife. It is not explosive and doesnt make me want to see the next ep asap but i love their natural acting and improvisations. It is a drama you can watch slowly when you feel bored
Are You the One -- Agree about the performance and skin over-smoothing, but I still find this period romance drama enjoyable! I didn't mind the slow build and comedy bits - though I'll agree that I did wince a bit... Anyway, I'm caught up with the episodes aired-to-date and feel that it's finally - tonally, thematically - where it always intended to be. Love's Rebellion -- 10000% agree with all your points. I'm a fan of Jing Tian and Zhang Ling and once vowed to watch anything they're in, respectively. But wow ... this is the first time I'm witnessing them just "clocking in" and "clocking out" for work. There's zero chemistry between the two of them. I have fallen asleep 5-6x trying to watch the first 10 episodes. And yes, the audio quality was shocking. Usually, I'm less particular about audio than I am about the visuals - like VFX or a background actor goofing around - but this drama is particularly bad.
Among all the currently aired dramas , the only one makes me hooked on is "Are You the One". I'm intrigued by the plot and the story of FL. The only complaint I have is the charade of loss of memory and being a wife of the Lord are dragging way too long and I'm on ep 17.
To pass time and not bother my head too much with (obvious, glaring) plot holes, overused sets and sundry technicalities (the drama is so full of that sort of flaws, that listing them might result in a catalogue that would exceed drama time, so I just let it slide!), I had fun watching a " latiao " short drama : Embrace in the Dark Night, featuring sizzling hot Jesse Ren ❤🔥❤🔥❤🔥 That one may even become a cult item, fully worth "wasted time". I started thinking critically when diving into it, and then decided to just throw overboard that pair of dark lenses, and just bide my time, which was not taxed for too long anyway. I ended up grinning from ear to ear at all the cuteness and ridicule and guilty pleasure; the sizzle bridged over any distaste. I might even watch an S2 if any is made, and young actor is now on my "cute handsome" list, alongside Richard Li 🔥🥰🥰, whose latest costume item is starting (30 x20' episodes), on Youku and TH-cam, so off I go to watch that one (Dawn Is Breaking) next instead of expecting too much from the overlong ones that hail down on screens! It would be too easy to tear those dramas apart, so I suppose AvenueX won't bother. (What would be more amusing would be to hear what redeeming views she might have, if she enjoyed latiao But I assume that, although she appreciated luosifen, she would not really recommend the addictive toxic snack strips). The more "ambitious" dramas of 2024 were not that memorable, I agree, but I will still fondly recall a handful, among which the two Xu Kai ones ; and The Tale of Rose ; two handicap themed ones that were not too tear jerking ; the xianxia Legend of Shen Li ; most remarkable c-drama to me was War of Faith. And the super short unusual To The Wonder (still up there with 8.9 Douban rating). I got both enthused and disappointed by The Double, Joy of Life 2, Lost You Forever 2 and some that are already slipping from my memory... It's true that A Lonely Hero is not up to par with WoF. I had the same eyebrow twitching moment in the instances Avenue X pointed out, despite I too came with a somewhat positive bias. Will try to watch it to end though, although I already doubt it will be more than for completion sake. It does not bring me as much as I could hope for, in either acting, pictures, plot, historical details, chemistry sizzle...
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Are you the one is soooo good! The sense of humour, the FL and ML did an amazing job in their deliveries… I thought I would get bored cos I wait everyday for the episodes to drop ! I didn’t first drama I followed faithful
I totally enjoy "Are You The One", as other commenters have stated there's nothing "CONFUSING", about it. The leads are amazing, they are both gorgeous, the secondary cast are also fantastic.
It's humorous and keeps you hanging out for the next episodes. Watch it......10/10
About Are You the One, never read the novel but by far I’m hooked and didn’t feel confused about any plot. Actually it’s the mystery, unknown, kept me interested. If everything was explained clearly at the beginning, like goals of the story, relationships,etc it would have been so predictable and boring.
It's very boring imo small setting not enough interesting characters to compensate
I agree, it's not the best drama ever but I appreciate watching it so far
Same. I never read the novel and the plot isn't confusing to me. For those that watch these type of drama should catch already who she is with the few scenes they show early on. I already guess at the beginning who she is. The drama doesn't do anything great, but its good enough. I actually prefer the beginning where they play a couple and try to strive at business than the actual plot.
Nah, it drags a lot honestly
I guessed on the first episode and I didn't even finish watching the first episode😅@@plou333
Forget this summer, this whole year is weak in terms of C-dramas. I am fan of Costume dramas, and last year, by this time of the year, we already had a few good towards decent dramas. But this year, we barely had 2-3 dramas, which stand out.
I just looked at my "Plan to watch" list of dramas on MDL, and I still have so many historical c-dramas saved there. Some since last year, which were supposed to be released by now. Not much is left from 2024, and I have no hope left for this year.
Idk why all the platforms were so restrained this year into releasing big budget/big cast names dramas.
PLEASE NEVER STOP MAKING VIDEOS! I love your analysis/ critiques even if I don't agree with some. I feel like a lot of the things you say, I totally agree with. You bring so much perspective and discussion and I feel like I can never properly explain those little details I notice that make me feel iffy about the drama. I've been binging your videos and I love the perspective. I can never have a conversation about these things so it's so nice to know that I'm not the only one who feels something in certain dramas.
I quiet like Are you the One, i think it is very sweet drama. I'm enjoying it so far❤
same
Me too
Yea, but sad that the group just deceived her. I cried so much watching the show.
This summer has been incredibly boring w/ barely any dramas that interested me.
I DO enjoy "are you the one" and I didn't have any problem following the story.
I agree with you 100%. Sometimes I feel Avenue X thinks the IQ of her viewers is at grade school level.
@@laurynmadsen
@@laurynmadsenwell many mistake her but overtime as you watch her videos you understand she has been at the drama scene for more than a decade which has unfortunately made her expectations mature and has grown indifferent to plots like are you the one.
@@starnight9138same,. I've been watching cdrama's now for 10 years and I'm so picky now. Even I like the actors if I don't like it, then I will drop it easily why would waste my time.
@@laurynmadsen No, this was a common issue with Chinese audiences.
I am addicted to Are You the One. It will be one of my faves this year!
I really like Are You The One and the lack of information in the beginning is refreshing and it fits the story, since both leads also are in the dark about a lot when it comes to each other, we even get the first scene that already gives a hint of a secret that will be confirmed after 17 episodes, but the 16 previous ones serve for us to feel alongside the discomfort, betrayal and longing alongside the characters, even more so than if it had come earlier
I feel the banter and push and pull between the leads is pleasant too, they're both so smart and driven, I lookforward for their scenes
I almost enjoy and don't enjoy ur review😅
No hate meant or directed towards you. I totally get your point because some of these points are something I notice too when I watch these c-dramas. The issue is I might still end up enjoying some of these dramas until I hear ur review. Then ur review drops in and it suddenly becomes glaringly unbearable to watch😂
We, an international audience, manage to watch it probably because we don't have the intricate details of history, era, dynasty, costumes etc.. so that part of the brain is constantly switched off. However I know I don't tolerate period costume dramas or even modern era dramas from my own country because I notice all the flaws in it - that part of my brain just refuses to shut up😂
So I totally get ur pov. Also I have noticed that c-dramas are so much into fillers that it becomes absolutely boring. If those unwanted fillers are cut off then the dramas would become a bit more fast paced and much bearable to watch. My conclusion is c-drama should cut down the episodes from 30-40 episodes to 15-20 episodes.
However I still love your reviews. So if I love a drama or lead characters, I will consciously not watch ur review until I'm done with it.😊
Agreed. As a person from the west, I turn off my logical mind while watching a light and easy drama. Light on the subject easy on the eye. I watch what catches my fancy at the time but I don’t have tolerance for silly female leads and outlandish storylines. I’m captivated by dramas such as The Advisors Alliance and its sequel at the moment. Avenue X mentioned this drama in one of her past videos, that I value tremendously as it puts me in touch with quality dramas. I highly recommend picking up on some of her suggestions when she offers them as examples. This drama focuses on a historical figure Sima Yi. Fascinating. Anyway hang in there as there are a few good dramas out there on IQIYI such as The Knockout. 🌸💃🏽
Yeah it’s like the first say 20 episodes is great and awesome and all but then it starts to go downhill? Then you wonder if you should continue watching or just go watch the ending
Agree with you. Some drama i watch till the end before i watch avenueX review.
But I really enjoy avenueX review, it almost like educational. I always feel i gain more knowledge after I watched avenueX
I agree so much 😅
I LOVE ARE YOU THE ONE！ its THE BEST scrip and story telling I have ever watched in C drama! I was hooked on episode one. It is sooo good, typically it takes me a lot to get into a series and some of them I never finish but this one is so intriguing that I watched 27 episodes in 3 days ( and I have a full time job and two young kids) I just could not put it down! The plot makes sense and it flows naturally, it is easy to understand and logical. There are a lot of series where I don’t understand exactly what is going on or it wouldn’t make sense and too abstract (for example 四海重明） I also think that visually it is quite beautiful but that’s just in my amateur eyes. I do agree that the acting is not the best. 张晚意 does dramatic scenes very well but I don’t think he does everyday scenes very well partly he just doesn’t seem very natural to me, like he is too nervous or too stiff. I think it might be an age and experience thing. I find that the older actors in these period dramas are a lot more watchable for example like 陈晓，or 林更新. Maybe they are just able to be more relaxed because of their life experiences. Nevertheless 张晚意 is not horrible and the FL is okay so far as well. And I do agree that there’s no chemistry between the male and female leads, and yes he does not do the jokes well. But despite he short comings it is the most intriguing C period drama that I’ve seen this year!
I enjoy watching are you the one no problem following the story
I disagree with your review of Are You the One, I am hooked onto the drama and love the story and writing and acting of the 2 leads. To me, there is so much heart and intrigue that supersedes the technical failings you pointed out. I'm a pretty picky and discerning c-drama watcher but I love this drama so much.
I 100% agree with you
It’s a lovely drama 😭😂
So the second ml does not know that fl got injured and lost her memory?
I am currently watching Are You The One for 14 episodes. I quite enjoy it. Especially the chemistry between the leads.
It’s so good ! I love that he takes a stand and makes it known
I think Avenue X has to make another review of Are you the one?as she watched ul tp episode 9.
I think Avenue X has to make another review of Are you the one?as she watched ul tp episode 9.
Regarding Are you the one, I gave up after reading 58 chapters of 131 chapters in total, and enjoy the drama instead. I don’t care about the set and lighting because I’ve been focusing with their acting and their role in the drama instead
Drama : Are You The One
1-16= Romance Comedy+Slice of life
17-19= Thriller
I'm telling you this, so you can consider your personal tastes before watching.
@@RavenRui01 will I miss much if I just jumped to episode 16?
@@violetvynot really in terms of plot but there is tension from then on as the plot begins to unravel. The tension stems from the peaceful time in the first part of the drama slowly breaking down into angst. So you may not really feel the impact of the angst if that makes sense? However if you hate the misunderstanding trope you can skip the first part
@@maritareads5229it seems like Bai jingting and Song yi's drama "Destinied". It starting from comedy romance and slice of life. But in the middle of episodes, it turn to be angst and tragedy 🥲🥲 (yet, still so good)
@@maritareads5229 Thank you for helping me explain.
I enjoy Are You The One very much, it’s funny, the writing is smooth (at least for me), I like the plot line. The FL is genius without making other characters dumb for her to look genius. She is ruthless, even when she lost her memory. When she get her memory back she even more badass. I love how she handle people around her. This is one of the most enjoyable drama for me this year, which is not many.
I tried to watch love rebellion but can’t pass over the first 5 minutes. I’ll try again if i feel like it.
Are You The One 'wakes up' at Episode 17 when she regains her memory. But yes, it was a loooong wait to Episode 17. The scriptwriters were a bit duh for dragging out the 'get to know the characters' episodes.
Omg such a long wait!!!! I’m at 7 and last 2 episodes were so boring. 🥱
Yes, that's what I was thinking exactly. I think five initial episodes would be enough for the viewers to understand what is going on. I'm currently on ep. 18 and can't wait until the next one. By the way, Wang Churan is sooooo charming, sweet and elegant! What a lovely lady! But what do you think about the ML? Do you think there's chemistry between them ??? I can't see any .
@@maggelaki will I miss much if I just skipped to episode 15? I am only at episode 7, so the chemistry doesn’t seem that intense or natural. He is showing that he cares about her but it doesn’t quite feel real to me.
@@violetvy well, don't skip. You' ll miss a lot of vital information about the bandits and all the hussle the ML has to endure from Princess Dowager and the Court, all these political scheming which shows he's in a critical state. So my advise is to fastforward in 1.25 or 1.5 speed and don't miss any (at least that's what I did and spared me a lot of time). It's an interesting story, but the drama unfolds too slow. Have fun anyway ☺☺
@@violetvy He knows full well that he is not her real husband, and he does not have the chemistry with her. She acts normal as a wife because she believes that he is her husband. He set up a guard over himself to protect her but he still fall in love with her.
I am currently watching Are You The One. I really do enjoy the characters, the plot and acting so far. I might be a sucker for a love story trope like that but it’s really enjoyable so far. I love the dynamics between the main couple, his best friend, and their crew.
Are you the one is one of the better C drama I’ve watched for a while. The story is light hearted, funny parts are funny, it makes you laugh and not feel awkward or forced. Characters have good chemistry, everyone has a brain, misunderstandings are quickly resolved and not dragged on forever. The scenes are gorgeous in a lot of the episodes for the budget, and music is good as well. The terminologies that the characters speak has a traditional Chinese feel to it, in contrast to some other shows where there’s a bunch of modern terminology when the setting is the olden days. The show itself also pokes fun at some of the common tropes that C drama has (such is if you have piece of cloth shoved in your mouth you can actually spit it out 😂). The love between the ML and FL flows very naturally, it’s not love at first slight but love that develops through time, like what happens in real life lol. I’ve purchased vip and svip to keep up with the show, it’s honestly too addicting!! One of the better summer drama for sure!
Are you the one …is a good drama is not difficult to understand. I like the couple I thing is a good job .
Well I'm not confused about ARE YOU THE ONE at all.
It's actually amazing...
I’m watching Are you the one. It’s okay and I will continue watching. The male costumes are fabulous and very clean. They ironed those costumes very well! I agree with the skin smoothing and make up. It’s tooooo much!
Oooh...are you the one is so gooodddd...berry captivating
I'm enjoying Are you the one. Very sweet. Now the angst when her memory comes back... I've never read the novel but I have no trouble following the story
Loved Strange Tales of Tang. Already watched all of I & II, now the wait for III. ❤❤❤
It seems like quite a few of us were actually looking forward a low-angst romcom and ❤ Are you the one. So were the people rating it at Douban.
I personally like it a lot and hope it sticks the landing.
On the contrary, I really love the chemistry of the leads in Are You The One!
They have to develop the chemistry later, for now it not good if they have too much chemistry. He is not her real husband, at the moment he does not love her yet. If they develop the chemistry too early then I think it look kind fake, and that not good.
I'm rooting for the friend, physician Lord and Miss He too.
I don't agree with you (u the one) I haven't read the novel, but I essentially like the development of the plot. I like how open and sweet the heroine is, while being smart and without the terrible Asian grimaces of a little girl. I like how the hero gradually falls captive to her charm. I don't know what will happen next, but so far up to episode 17 everything is very interesting. The pace of the narrative gradually increases. The heroes make mistakes. A pleasant balance of humor and romance.
For the taste of a person who grew up on Hollywood, this is good.
Why didn't you watch Melody of Golden Age? I loved it. Both leads were excellent. My only complaint was the dubbing of Ding Yuxi's voice. I saw a BTS clip of the filming of his confession scene where you got to hear Ding Yuxi actually speaking the lines as it filmed. Ah it was so touching - such range of vocal nuance. At one point he was whispering. They didn't do the drama any favors by dubbing Ding Yuxi.
Are You the One show is captivating. The plot is good so far and you can't tell who is really the villain yet. It is like peeling onions, layer by layer.
I totally disagree with your review of "Are you the one".
I love "Are you the one" a lot and it very entertaining to me.
It is so funny and I laugh a lot. Also, I love the chemistry between the two leads.
A lot of my friends love it too.
I still love to watch your review though 😊😊😊!
I really enjoy watching "Are you the one". The drama is interesting and funny.
I read Liu Zhouji's novel/ Are You the One. I think the chemistry is good, and even though the story is slow. Thanks to their adorable interactions as a fake couple, it kept me going. There are changes to the story from the original novel, but they are good changes.
It could be said that the drama version is even better than the novel.
What changes were made?
In the novel they have sexual relations in a military camp, under the influence of aphrodisiacs. and in the drama... Miantang's memory, recovered early.
@@cassball7 Miantang's character as a bandit is further strengthened, than in the novel. Her cruelty, and her calm nature when facing something that happens.
@@RavenRui01 thank you for the response. I don’t mind a slow story if it’s good. I like the drama. It’s not the best I’ve ever seen but it’s good. I will continue to watch.
I always enjoy your reviews. Your review makes me either watch or drop dramas. Keep up the good works.
Sound analysis AvenueX!I am currently watching " Are you the one" ( ep24) and I am enjoying it but you got a point: giving hints since the first episodes would have given more " sparks" and attracked more viewers. The drama became better after because it is indeed a good storyline.
.......Lol. The part you talked about @23:00 reminds me of my 3 year old nephew. Whenever he tries to hide from us, he likes to close his eyes, thinking if he does that, then nobody will see him 😂😂😂😂
😂 putting the quote “out of sight, out of mind” to use
I enjoy Are You the One. The chemistry is fun though I'm slightly frustrated by how long the lie goes on. I didn't feel it was too confusing, though. I think the exposition was enjoyable. It took a little long to get to that chemistry, but honestly it felt more realistic that way than him suddenly loving her.
I haven't finished Love's Rebellion because I wanted to wait until it finished then binge, but I really like it. I'm happy with a slow, chemistry driven show. It's not trying to be super serious, which you get from the very first scene, and I love it.
Totally fair we don't agree, my level of criticism is usually lower than yours. I always really enjoy your more technical criticisms because I feel like I learn more about the industry and production and even culture at times, but I think that's getting drowned out lately with the feeling that I'm being told I'm liking bad things with statements versus opinions haha. But I just need to remember to finish a series before I come for your opinion, because at that point I've already moved on from the show hahah.
I just finished season 2 of strange tales of tang dynasty and I have show my appreciation the the ending by clapping. can't wait for season 3.
Seriously... 'are you the one ' can't be ... my fellow friends & neighbors are all eagerly waiting every day...for each & every new episodes 😂
Ms. X nailed it again! I had to laugh, when stories are so slow that you'd rather watch the cement dry after a rainstorm....I admit I've searched online with some stories just to find out what happens because the story is slow. As for the lighting, I've often seen programs where the color looks wrong, and I shout at the TV set "get a fresnel with a gel magenta 167 guys! What's wrong with you folks, don't you know how to blend colors to get light and read the electrical plot? Haven't you heard of Leko light strips?" This refers to dummies who cannot read the electric draft for a theatrical lighting plot of how the directional lights should give a natural effect to a drama. I figure two problems, first they may not have enough people to hang the lights or the people who dress the sets are unaware that the pigment of the paints on the flats have an undertone that doesn't reveal itself until the lighting is on. Even costumers, at least a good one, pays attention to how a scene will be lit as to how to have the best effect for the clothing and the appearance of the actors.
As for the 'stupid spy' drama, it sounds almost like a comedy from Ms. X's description. I might watch if I want to experience a s-l-o-w day, but not likely. Kudos Ms. X. Again your commentary reveals an accurate review which provides the rest of us with better TV viewing. Many kind thanks.
Played a little bit of Black Myth Wukong and let me just say wow ! I’m ready for journey to the west! You look stunning btw Avenue X!
Where’s black myth Wukong playing?
This is a game avaliable on steam and ps5
Yes, I am REALLY enjoying "Are You The One". I am not Chinese and I learn a lot from Avenue X: Chinese culture and society, entertainment, dramas, movies, technical, linguistic and cinematic aspects... I often agree with her reviews, but I also often disagree. Reviews are not definitive and absolute truths, they always imply the subjectivity of those who make them. (If you read film reviews by reputable critics, you will see that they also differ - for some a certain film is trash, for others the same film is a masterpiece). So, I usually go my own way, select what I will watch according to my interests and tastes and I appropriate or reject, drop or become obsessed, pamphlet or simply forget. I like to hear Avenue X's opinion only after I have experienced a drama and formed my own opinion about it, because that way I will better understand her criticism, enrich my knowledge, and agree or disagree with her classification.
I’ve personally watched both “Are You the One” and “Love’s Rebellion.” I’m currently on episode 18 of “Are You the One” and have finished “Love’s Rebellion.” While I started watching “Love’s Rebellion” because I like the main actor and actress, I wouldn’t recommend the drama to anyone. The story is plain and forgettable, almost as if the writers and directors were too exhausted to come up with something engaging, leaving the series to feel like it was completed by AI. The chemistry between the main characters is lukewarm at best-it could have been much more passionate, but it wasn’t. Between the two, I prefer “Are You the One.” At least there’s a mystery that keeps me somewhat interested, and I’m hoping the drama picks up in the later episodes.
I understand what you mean about Are You The One but the humor was so enjoyable that I liked watching it. Plus with all the other world setup, it made sense for how it was constructed
Personally, I really enjoy the drama "A lonely hero's journey". Starting from the 1st ep it got me hooked to the storyline.I really like the way it has potrayed the resistant against japanese during the sino-japanese war times. In my opinion Joseph zeng & Chen duling did a great job potraying the characters...
Coming back to this video to correct my outlook on Are You The One. After she regains her memory, the drama really spices things up. I like their dynamics now, thank God. 20+ episodes in and keeping my fingers crossed it continues to stay at least as entertaining as now. 🤞🤞🤞
Are you the one is interesting
My favourite place in Love's Rebellion is that market-place :} So Harry Potter !
😅True
What do you mean its like harry potter ? Please enlighten me
I thought Are you the One was really slow at first so I dropped it for a while. I went back to it and realized that once she gets her memory back, it gets really good and I am hooked now.
I am actually enjoying are you the one
You look SO good, your blouse/top is really pretty, you look great in it.
I’m watching “Are you the one”. Enjoyable and easy to follow. I’m watching up until episode 19. And, being impatient to follow 2 episodes/day to know what next, I’ve looked for the novel 😁. It seems the plot may have changed from the novel.
I also enjoy watching Are You The One. I was surprised that it had a comedic turn. There were moments of laughing out loud for me. I disagreed, I think the ML has a lot of micro-expressions that I enjoyed. Especially, when his lying caught up with him and he has to keep on lying. I think both leads are really good and interacted well and their characters are believable. I finished Love's Rebellion and agreed that it was bad. Most of the time, it was background noise and I don't even understand Mandarin. LOL! I think I mainly invested purely for ZLH because of Princess Royal. Unlike that drama, this couple has no chemistry. I want to watch A Lonely Hero's Journey but somehow, it doesn't call to me at all so it's a no.
I agree - I’m not familiar with the ML and I thought he had great comedic delivery. I think he’s a good actor. Also think the lead couple have a lot of chemistry.
Are you the one is the ishh right now its. A bit. slow but im hooked
Are you the one is pretty good
I am disappointed in this summer C-Dramas as well, mainly because certain ones have not been released yet when during the summer there is more time to watch, and then the ones I wanted to watch are not available unless there is a membership for certain platforms. Dashing Youth being one of them. Ep 22 gone from TH-cam and Strange Tales of Tan Dynasty s 2 gone by ep 6. So oh well.... forget it.
Nah ain't no way she said Are You the One isn't good. Love's Rebellion is booty cheeks though. Everything from the sound to the editing and the choppy ass story was booty cheeks.
She didn't say it was bad...
Oh my goodness!!! The booty cheek comment had me laughing out loud. Thanks for that!👏🏾👏🏾Seriously, can you tell us how you really feel? 🤣🤣Stay real🌸💃🏽
I really don't understand why there's so much negativity about the dramas? Yes, I'm not a chinese, but I can't say that I can watch everything in chinese dramaland. I also have quite high standards, but I really enjoy Are you the one. I don't have any confusion about a plot and actor's playing. And why there shoud be chemistry in first 9 episodes? It doesn't make sense. She's not his real wife, he just want to use her to reach his own goals. There's no place for chemistry. But when he was starting to fall in love with her everything has changed.
And I don't think this is a good way to judge whole drama just for the 9-10 episodes. You can say that you don't like it, but can't say that it's a bad drama.
Honestly, according to your review I tried to watch Strange tales of Tang dinasty, but I can't say it was really interesting for me. I quite enjoyed the characters but not the storyline. I don't have motivation to keep watching it. But earlier I really enjoyed spy drama with Li Xian which you even didn't mention.
I liked you previous review but now there's no light in the darkness, so prefer first watch drama and after it come here watch review.
But anyway thank you for your videos. I know that you have more experience in dramaland and more knowledge about China, so it's interesting to know your opinion
I really enjoy watching Are You the One but I do agree with Avenuex especially with the way the drama tells its story. The drama didn't bother telling the background of the story as if they just let the viewers decide what the drama is all about.
For one, I am already at Ep 19 yet I still don't know what is Cui Xingzhou's connection to the young emperor. What is his background. If he's a legitimate child, or what is his position in the court. There are so many things that are left undisclosed which really affects my enjoying every time the focus is regarding the court politics.
Maybe you skipped a little?😊 I also do it with palace intrigue sometimes. There is no connection (family I mean) between the kid Emperor and Cui Xinghou. The latter's dad was a general, he "pacified Zenzhou"(whatever that means") and was made a Prince/Lord (depending on the translation) that has been awarded this whole prefecture. Xingzhou's mom was his main wife and Xingzhou their only male child, so he became Lord when his dad died.
Love´s Rebellion, I completely agree. I´m on chapter 22 (because still not watching something else) and I am still not finding conection between the events and past characters, Zhang Ling He is good looking but that´s all, it feels like is being written chapter by chapter.
I love are you the one I do not have your critical training so your discussion does not impact my enjoyment
Good for you. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾I agree as I watch her videos but I’m in control of my drama list. She’s here to provide insight but ultimately it’s the viewer that gives the ratings. Happy drama watching.🌸💃🏽
I 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 when you pointed out the skin smooth problem and then the picture of the seal itself. omg, never 🤣🤣 so hard. Great point out. 👍👍
I don’t watch much drama this year compared to previous years idk why. So I always come back rewatching my comfort dramas😔
Love watching Are You The One and very excited for the next episodes ❤❤❤
Yup. Are you the one did not have the kind of chemistry you'd expect from this kind of drama. Totally agree with you
Excellent review. Thank you.
Ohhh my goodness!! LOL! Well, (and please read till the end) I’ve been devouring “Are You the One” as a starved person would a perfectly cooked New York Strip steak and baked potato to the point that…. I even paid (for the first time ever) the $5.99 to see the express episodes. Why do I love it so? Because… the male lead is playing the exact type of male lead that he played in “Lost You Forever” but this time… he gets the girl.❤. It is incredibly satisfying! I’m in love all over again and feeling so happy for him! Now all that being said, I hear your review and now that you point things out… yeah, I can see these things now and can’t argue the points made but I’m not seeing it with the critical eye of a professional person in the entertainment industry. What an education you are giving us. I wish so much I could have seen this in a version made to your standard. I hope “The Powers That Be” take note❤. As always, looking forward to more of your reviews. Thank you! 👍
😂 i hope the 6 dollars that you paid is worth it! Sometime what make us through a drag/boring drama is the casts...
@@cleoduxNope. It definitely was not worth it because you can only watch the express episodes on your cell phone!!! They will not allow you to mirror it to your big screen tv. Can you believe that poop? Paying for express only ruins everything for you. Lesson learned and NEVER AGAIN. 👎
Haven’t read or know anything about the novel but found the story of Are You the One easy to follow. Maybe you’re impatient because it’s on air and you can’t wait to see it unfold?
I'm really interested in hearing your thoughts about Snowfall, which to me really stands out from most other dramas this summer. And I'm not usually a fan of that genre, but this immediately hooked me.
Yesss! Same here! ❤
She didn’t like it. Couldn’t get into it so almost immediately dropped. It’s on one of her videos a few weeks ago
@@vespertyne2169 Oh, okay. Thank you for replying. We can't all like the same things!
@vespertyne2169 she doesn't like 99% of dramas out there. And the ones she doesn't like, I usually enjoy. So I learnt to search and watch the dramas that she dislikes.
@vespertyne2169 she doesn't like 99% of dramas out there. And the ones she doesn't like, I usually enjoy. So I learnt to search and watch the dramas that she dislikes.
i can never forget the riverscapes of 'a dream of splendour', so beautiful
I was able to watch 10 minutes of "love's rebellion". I thought that something was off.
I made it to episode 20 and then quickly said I’m done. I’ve seen better from both leads and I don’t really like the plot
Honestly? They wasted a good looking cast. Both actors I’ve enjoyed in others projects but couldn’t watch this drama. It’s too light and easy and fails to capture my attention. Take care🌸💃🏽
I am watching your reviews again after almost a gap of two years or soo and mann how much I missed it 😂😂😂
Are you The One started out slow and the ML character is so slimy that it almost lost me. I stuck with it and there were 2-3 episodes that were very good. All in all the series suffers from not being tightly focused and sometimes drags our a theme for too long. The episodes after 32 turned out to be quite good and some new twists I have not seen in other dramas before.
I think you are too polite about the Olympics 😂 The drama world just has been really boring Vs the craziness of real life. I can't believe how little I can talk about this year re.cdramas. The Double was the only one which had me excited! 🤷
Have you watched “You are my secret” one of the best scripts and chemistry between the main and second couple
I wish Avenuex would stop complaining about actors not being pretty or handsome enough for roles. She wants actors with good skills but dismisses actors who aren't obsessed with being beautiful. Of course most (not all) actors who have sold out and are getting plastic surgery constantly because they want to be the most beautiful and praised for their looks won't be as concerned with actually being good at acting. You can't have your cake and eat it too. Give "ugly" actors and actresses a chance too.
?
@@onemin8729 What are you confused about?
She said that about "idol drama", I don't think she has a problem about that in "mainstream drama", because idol drama created for eye candy's actor/actress who have a lot of fanbase or have a potential to attract fans, acting really is a second consideration for idol drama, you often see a medium or bad idol actor/actress got main role in Cdrama land, good script and good acting is really a bonus, that is the capitals game.
@@sunnyshine9510 It doesn't matter that it's "idol drama". Why can't people without surgery, natural Chinese feautures and darker skin be considered beautiful idols? All the insults and beauty standards do is perpetuate colorism and eating disorders in actors and fans.
Interesting point. I did pick up her preference for good looking people in Chinese dramas. I agree that society is infatuated with beauty and Avenue X is no different. While I enjoy her takes on various dramas I do find her definition of beauty is different from mine. Further to the point, acting ability in my book has very little to do with a beautiful person. I applaud beautiful actress who take rough parts that highlight their acting talent. Examples, Hailey Berry, Charlize Theron and Julia Roberts, all these women have won high praise for their rolls in thought provoking films. The Chinese dramas I’ve enjoyed are dramas that have hard core themes, such cop thrillers, drug runners, court dramas etc. All the light and easy dramas or Idol dramas are stress relievers for me. My brain doesn’t have to work too hard but they have to be decent. The cast don’t have to be pretty just decent. An example is the recent Idol drama As Beautiful As You. Entertaining! Totally enjoyed the entire cast. Stick to your guns and take care. 🌸💃🏽
I have to agree about Love's Rebellion. I like the leads so I was looking forward to it. The FL's house was charming and colorful. The initial episodes were amusing. But as it plodded on their chemistry fell flat. All kinds of foreshadowing led up to their journey into the valley where they wanted to find the seven sins manual (or whatever it was called). But when they got there, what should've been a suspenseful adventure was just boring. Just another step in the plot, neither more nor less interesting than anything else. I maybe shouldn't say it, but I don't think male screenwriters are as capable as women of writing characters with emotional depth. If there had been more at stake for more complex characters, perhaps the plot would've had more pizzazz. I gave up watching at around ep. 13.
In relation to Chinese dramas this year I'm curious how many of you guys saw TENDER LIGHT?? I'm surprised nothing much was mentioned at all about that drama in the videos. ASIDE from the ending I found the series to be AMAZING with fantastic acting and chemistry between the 2 leads. TENDER LIGHT is definitely a standout and the BEST cdrama of the year so far for me.
I absolutely loved Tender Light! One of the top dramas of 2024 for me
@@eclecticpanda9718
So happy you agree and also enjoyed the drama:)
I wish it's talked about more hee hee
Thanks for the heads-up on A Lonely Hero's Journey. I've like Zeng Shunxi in several dramas, so I had this on my watchlist. I also really like espionage stories and grew up watching James Bond, reading John Le Carre, Len Deighton, and other now classic writers. So, I'm very picky about the espionage being handled well. I'll give this one a miss,
Thanks for your review. I hv not watch any C drama other than Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty 2 this year! running out of K drama as well.
There are so many good Korean dramas to watch both old and new. Enjoy. Take care🌸💃🏽
"She looks like a seal." Hilarious! Another really good review about bad dramas.
Will you be playing Black Myth Wukong OR watching a playthrough and do an analysis?
huhh😢😢? Are you the one is good
I only started 2/3 and the only watchable one so far, is Are You the One. I agree with your points about it. I was ok just seeing their daily lives with little snippets of Cui Jiu's story and I was starting to get bored but the latest episodes has started to reveal her background so I'm still hanging on. I do think that compared with Love's Rebellion, they have better "chemistry" but I do feel something lacking and I think it has to do with their acting. I'm slowly losing hope for idol historical romancd dramas haha. I am ok with low budget but the acting and story just haven't been giving me anything worthwhile.
you made me giggle 😄
I'm spending this summer watching past dramas that I did not see during the time they came out. So I'm kind of glad there's no interesting ones during this time as I won't get distracted.
Love's rebellion is actually not bad
9:00 You mentioned that ML’s face looks like a paper because his face is evenly done with make up, but then again we all know that every historical drama/fantasy, this is how make up is done. The reason why males look prettier than the women due to make up. This has something to do with burying the hair piece edges while blending it with the face; needs to cover with foundation. Looks unnatural, but we, the audience are used to that. I’m glad you mentioned though. You’re a smart lady. I admire you so much. 😅
Me watching this video knowing damn well I'm having the time of my life this summer too because I'm rewatching the untamed for the 20th time, rather than finding a new drama to watch lmao.
Good morning~ and thanks for watching all those dramas so we could know your opinion
I haven‘t even tried any of the summer dramas… I think the last cdrama I watched was To The Wonder… ugh! I hope there will be a good one soon because I refuse to even start bad or mediocre ones these days
Im currently watching as husband and wife. It is not explosive and doesnt make me want to see the next ep asap but i love their natural acting and improvisations. It is a drama you can watch slowly when you feel bored
My lady you are wrong about are you the one. Is like you don’t like this drama but please be most respectful about other works …
I’m watching Love’s Rebellion because I like Jing Tian. It’s nowhere near as good as Wonderland of Love but the leads are very watchable.
Are You the One -- Agree about the performance and skin over-smoothing, but I still find this period romance drama enjoyable! I didn't mind the slow build and comedy bits - though I'll agree that I did wince a bit... Anyway, I'm caught up with the episodes aired-to-date and feel that it's finally - tonally, thematically - where it always intended to be.
Love's Rebellion -- 10000% agree with all your points. I'm a fan of Jing Tian and Zhang Ling and once vowed to watch anything they're in, respectively. But wow ... this is the first time I'm witnessing them just "clocking in" and "clocking out" for work. There's zero chemistry between the two of them. I have fallen asleep 5-6x trying to watch the first 10 episodes. And yes, the audio quality was shocking. Usually, I'm less particular about audio than I am about the visuals - like VFX or a background actor goofing around - but this drama is particularly bad.
AvenueX, can you do a video explaining the animated cutscenes at the end of each chapter of Black Myth Wukong?
Among all the currently aired dramas , the only one makes me hooked on is "Are You the One". I'm intrigued by the plot and the story of FL. The only complaint I have is the charade of loss of memory and being a wife of the Lord are dragging way too long and I'm on ep 17.
To pass time and not bother my head too much with (obvious, glaring) plot holes, overused sets and sundry technicalities (the drama is so full of that sort of flaws, that listing them might result in a catalogue that would exceed drama time, so I just let it slide!), I had fun watching a " latiao " short drama : Embrace in the Dark Night, featuring sizzling hot Jesse Ren ❤🔥❤🔥❤🔥 That one may even become a cult item, fully worth "wasted time".
I started thinking critically when diving into it, and then decided to just throw overboard that pair of dark lenses, and just bide my time, which was not taxed for too long anyway. I ended up grinning from ear to ear at all the cuteness and ridicule and guilty pleasure; the sizzle bridged over any distaste. I might even watch an S2 if any is made, and young actor is now on my "cute handsome" list, alongside Richard Li 🔥🥰🥰, whose latest costume item is starting (30 x20' episodes), on Youku and TH-cam, so off I go to watch that one (Dawn Is Breaking) next instead of expecting too much from the overlong ones that hail down on screens!
It would be too easy to tear those dramas apart, so I suppose AvenueX won't bother. (What would be more amusing would be to hear what redeeming views she might have, if she enjoyed latiao But I assume that, although she appreciated luosifen, she would not really recommend the addictive toxic snack strips).
The more "ambitious" dramas of 2024 were not that memorable, I agree, but I will still fondly recall a handful, among which the two Xu Kai ones ; and The Tale of Rose ; two handicap themed ones that were not too tear jerking ; the xianxia Legend of Shen Li ; most remarkable c-drama to me was War of Faith. And the super short unusual To The Wonder (still up there with 8.9 Douban rating). I got both enthused and disappointed by The Double, Joy of Life 2, Lost You Forever 2 and some that are already slipping from my memory...
It's true that A Lonely Hero is not up to par with WoF. I had the same eyebrow twitching moment in the instances Avenue X pointed out, despite I too came with a somewhat positive bias. Will try to watch it to end though, although I already doubt it will be more than for completion sake. It does not bring me as much as I could hope for, in either acting, pictures, plot, historical details, chemistry sizzle...