Lost You Forever (2023)

What I liked most about this drama were some of the characters. Xiang Liu as a dark and somewhat menacing type is one that I am a bit of a sucker for, and I initially decided to continue watching this show only to follow his arc. I like the angst that his arc provides to the story. I also appreciate the different kinds of relationships that the female lead has to the other male characters too, especially to Tushan Jing and Cang Xuan. I like that this story is about different kinds of relationships and I saw the beauty (and tragedy) in each of them.

Something else I like about this drama is the music -- not only the theme songs but also the instrumental BGM. Especially the instrumentals, actually. It contributed quite a bit to my enjoyment of this show.

However, having said that, I don't find the acting of most of the actors in this drama to be spectacular. Yang Zi was alright, but other than Zhang Wan Yi, I found the acting of the other male leads to be kind of lacklustre. Deng Wei's acting is quite dull and wooden (I know his character is supposed to be kind of a pushover, but a more skilled actor would still be able to bring more life into such a character). And Tan Jianci, though he is fine most of the time, there are some scenes where he overacted so much it actually made me cringe. (Don't get me wrong -- I have nothing against either Deng Wei or Tan Jianci, and in fact I think they're both gorgeous to look at. This is just my honest opinion about their acting in this show.)

Another problem I had with this drama was the plot, which I found hard to feel engaged in. Sometimes it feels almost as if there's no actual plot? The beginning was fine, and the last few episodes were also not bad. But the middle part bored me so much that I kept stopping and taking breaks away from it. Probably the only reason I didn't end up dropping this drama was because I'm not the kind of person who easily drops dramas that I've watched more than 5 episodes of, unless I really hate a show. All in all, I'm still glad I finished watching this drama -- but I wouldn't re-watch it (at least not this 1st Season).

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Love/Hate with this drama

Finally able to sort out my thought about this drama.

This drama is one of those "What could have been" with a better screenwriter (I know Tong Hua is in charge) and more experienced director.

What I love:
Qingshui Town. Amongst all the scenes throughout the 39 episodes, those in Qingshui Town were the best ones. Real and the character interactions were good although pacing here was quite slow.

Not gonna touch on the CP but scenes between XL/XY & XY/CX were aesthetically amazing.

What I hate:
When WXL became Xiao Yao.
Her growth graph suddenly plummet and it stayed constant till the end had me baffled. What Tong Hua wanted me to understand here? She stated her 3 things in earlier show, but later on, she looked like a love brain kid. Vague and fragmented.

How can she love normally when her childhood experiences affected her psychologically?

CX arc
This supposed to be the main arc, apart from the emotional arc from other male leads. This storyline should be tight and interesting enough to pull the emotions but the overall arc is just weak. Having watched shows like NiF, i'm expecting something from this but it's just disappointing.

Downplay of characters
In short, i just wish the writer retain most of them because this is my main source of frustration amongst all the points above.

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A surprisingly good xianxia

Wow, a female lead cdrama that doesn't make me want to tear my hair out from sheer rage. Whenever I watch historical cdramas with a woman as a protagonist, it's always an exercise in frustration, always so disappointing. This is happily half a step towards a strong female lead.

Fantastic acting from everybody. Yang Zi killed it in this drama! I found her previous roles quite bad (cough Ashes of Love that I dropped halfway) but she was excellent in this. Maybe it's because her character isn't a total damsel in distress? She gives some good, solid acting in this show, delivering serious tearjerker performances multiple times. I stayed up till 2am to watch the reveal of her hidden identity and cried alongside her. I was that riveted.

Zhang Wan Yi's Cang Xuan was really good at playing the ruthless strategist politician with intense emotional eyes (I thought he had a bit of a baby face but he grew on me). And special shout-out to Tan Jian Ci's Xiang Liu. This guy can seriously act. He was really charismatic, regardless of whatever persona he was playing - playboy Fangfei Bei or cold and stoic Xiang Liu. He really grew on me and stole the show.

Deng Wei's Tushan Jing was a bit weak. He's supposed to be one of those gentle scion of a noble house with a very astute and sharp mind, but came off as a bit of a puppy and looked quite angsty and lost most of the time. There was a big disconnect between how the other characters talk about him and how he carries himself and acts in the scenes.

The first half was, as always, the highlight. Yang Zi's character was badass. The second half was about political machinations and the love quadruple (love web by the end). I shipped Xiao Yao and Tushan Jing at first (lol it's quite fun to pick a ship) but got a bit bored of the 'will they won't they' between them. By the end of the show, I was firmly on the 'so close they're codependent' powerful sibling duo Cang Xuan and Xiao Yao. Love how they'd kill for each other. That's the drama I live for.

Great fun, can't wait for S2.

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Best C-Drama so far 2023

Catches you from beginning. I couldn't stop watching to the detriment of my sleep.

First 16 episodes are great. Later episodes are bit draggy and 15% fillers.

But overall writing and dialogues are good. Writers of show move at pretty good pace. And most important the storyline and characters are not brain dead like most fairy dramas recently. People's behaviors and actions actually make sense most of the time. Characters actually look out for their own interests and don't speak aloud in crowded room about poisoning the food.

There's not too much 3rd grade humor like in many fairy shows. Or stupid brainless silliness or wacky music.

There are certain parts that make no sense. But overall I like it better than many recent disappointments. The biggest disappointment for me last few years have been Sword Snow Stride. It began as an absolute masterpiece and ended up being garbage by the end.

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It is, as expected, great!

Taking my time to savor "I Lost You Forever" proved to be a well-judged decision. While I anticipated enjoying it, the strategic delay heightened my appreciation, leading me to want to share my thoughts now.

This drama unfolds like a tapestry. This isn't a result of veering off course or losing direction but rather due to the fluid changes in scenarios and the intermittent introduction and departure of characters outside the main quartet. This dynamic approach, while invigorating, makes the story feel longer than it is, which, fundamentally, isn't a negative aspect.

Undoubtedly, the standout feature of this drama is its characters. The majority of them radiate an exceptional sense of authenticity. Each character possesses an irresistible charm coupled with unforgiving flaws, navigating actions that alternately endear and exasperate, reflecting not poor writing but a genuine depiction of human complexities.

Despite the political storyline's crucial role in the final episodes, the narrative retains its character-driven essence, so I feel it is only fair to have a discussion of the four main characters.

Xiaoyao's character is a truly captivating focal point of the narrative. Initially introduced as a man and maintaining this identity for a significant duration, her complexity adds a unique layer to the story. Strikingly, she manages to be simultaneously likable and polarizing, creating a multifaceted appeal that solidified my adoration for her as a central character. Delving extensively into Yang Zi's performance almost feels unnecessary – her portrayal in this role is nothing short of phenomenal. Consistently compelling from the beginning to the end, Yang Zi brings a depth and authenticity to Xiaoyao that is undeniably convincing.

Cangxuan didn't immediately capture my favor in the initial episodes, but over time, I found myself warming up to him. His narrative intertwined with Xiaoyao adds a compelling dimension, challenging conventional expectations of the male lead. Zhang Wanyi's portrayal matches Yang Zi's excellence, contributing significantly to the seamless execution of their interconnected stories.

On the flip side, Tushan Jing emerges as the narrative's Achilles’s heel, showcasing vulnerabilities both in writing and acting. Initially established as a fair enough character, he falters significantly as the story unfolds. His indecisiveness and weakness, despite hailing from one of Dahuang's most influential families, present a stark contrast to the greatness attributed to him. While the hardships he faced in the past are acknowledged, they fail to fully explain the extent of his character shift.

Deng Wei's portrayal of Tushan Jing, though not abysmal, falls noticeably short compared to the other three. His limited range of facial expressions and lack of nuance became wearisome after about 25 episodes. As the main love interest, his on-screen chemistry with Yang Zi lacks conviction, making their romantic moments feel unconvincing.

Lastly, Xiang Liu. It's an understatement to label him merely as my favorite. Tan Jianci consistently exceeds expectations, proving to be the unparalleled choice for bringing Xiang Liu to life. This character, with its profound complexity and layers, posed a substantial challenge, one that Tan Jianci masterfully conquered. His expressions transcend the ordinary, evoking palpable emotions that leave me both connected and perplexed by the intricacies of his character.

Xiang Liu's love for Xiaoyao is evident, yet his actions defy predictability. He's capable of extraordinary feats for her, yet equally inclined towards unexpected choices. Will he go to extremes to protect her, or might he lead her into unforeseen challenges? The uncertainty surrounding his character adds a magnetic allure, keeping me on the edge of anticipation.

Eagerly anticipating the second part of this compelling story, I can only hope it maintains its current breathtaking quality. While aware that it will not unfold as I wish (I can feel it), the prospect of the unknown journey ahead is both intriguing and exciting.

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Unique story. Mature themed. Slow paced. Stunning performances.

Lost You Forever season 1 tells the story of the FL who believes she has been abandoned by her family. She lives in a small town as a man and heals people with her medicine while hiding her real identity. Her peaceful life is turned upside down as she meets three men. The first man, she rescues and helps him heal his injuries that have been inflicted after years of torture. The second man she accidentally meets, he blackmails her into giving him medicine otherwise he threatens to kill her. The third one, is her long lost cousin that's been searching for her for a very long time. The first 16 episodes introduce all the characters, the world and the backstories. Afterwards the FL decides to reveal her identity and join her cousin in claiming the King's throne.

POSITIVE:
- The cinematography is top-notch.
- All the fantasy places are stunning, the costumes are beautiful, the CGI animals look very real.
- Magical fight scenes look impressive.
- Acting is fantastic from all the actors.
- All characters felt real and three dimensional.
- Realistic make-up and bruises. We have characters that are shown to be tortured and their look is very, very realistic.
- Unique story with a realistic and mature feel to it.

NEGATIVE:
- Only one negative but it's quite a big one for me. The pacing is very, very slow for my taste. The drama likes to show a lot of details in each scene, characters talking slowly so something simple like a dinner can be a very, very long scene, a lot of slow motion scenes etc which makes the drama feel draggy and boring at times.

CHARACTERS (MINOR SPOILERS):
The story has a reverse-harem trope so you have one FL and four male love interests. Her relationship with each of the four males is very different. Having said that, the drama clearly shows that FL only likes romantically two guys and early on decides to choose only one of them.
- FL is Xiao Yao, without revealing her identity, I'll only say that abandonment and loneliness are the main themes that the FL is struggling with from the start till the end of season 1.
- ML 1 is Cang Xuan, FL's cousin (not blood related). He is a prince and his story is the centrepiece of the dramas as he fights his way to become a King. He is ruthless, calculating and secretly in love with the FL.
- ML 2 is Tushan Jing, FL's chosen lover. He comes from one of the richest clans and has big obligations to his father. He is soft-hearted, kind, artistic and devotedly in love with the FL.
- ML 3 is Xiang Liu, FL's enemy. He is a general and loyal to the man who's saved his life... who also happens to be FL's enemy. At first he is very cruel and abusive to FL but later becomes her silent protector, secretly loving her.
- ML4 is Chishui Feng Long, He is Cang Xuan's closest friend and helper. He comes in later in the story. He likes the FL (mostly because of her status but doesn't love her).

OVERALL:
The first 16 episodes were very slow for me as they introduced all the characters and world. Afterwards I definitely became more invested in the story and some episodes were good others just ok. Last 10 episodes were definitely the best and the season wrapped up very well with no annoying cliffhangers. I'm definitely looking forward to season 2 and seeing how the story will unfold.

If you want a unique, mature, slow paced story with multiple love interests, great acting and beautiful visuals - this drama is for you.

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Confused storyline on the dominant female role

Though the series starts very well with Xiayao being a strong female lead and acting like a male …things get messed up the moment she changes to female after meeting the queen mother. And the role of male hero also loses value.
If she is a strong female with the way she talks to king on the fact that she’d can’t be dependent on any males….then why should she try to put lipstick make up and satisfy guys?
Why she wants to be a female charm when she thinks like a man or the key player of the future king…
Atleast the hero sacrifices everything for the love of his sister but the female heroine role is confused…more like double standards unsure on who they are satisfying …
dominant male role - she is not an ideal heroine
Charming female role - not sure what’s her specialty other than making poisons and using her title Princess of Haoling …

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Scammed by the step-mother

If you promote it as 1-1 adaptation written by the mother herself, don't blame me for scolding this drama because I feel scammed.

If it's bad from the beginning, I won't bother writing a review. Unfortunately, I've only realized it late (after eps 17). I severely regretted bringing all my family to watch this drama together because I thought it was loyal to the book. Now, I can't make them stop mid-way, so I need to scold this drama for wasting my time.

I'm actually fairly tolerant to plot change as long as the essence is maintained. In this drama..., they tried to maintain the plot as much as possible to the point they dragged this drama to 70 eps while deliberately destroying the essence of the novel.

Let me tell you the most fascinating aspects of the novel:

1. You are a daughter of an upper-class family, who accidentally fell in love with a poor ex-convict with tons of debt. At the same time, a rich guy declared his love to you and treated you like a queen. Let's be realistic, okay? Most girls would understandably choose the rich guy.

2. The concept of soulmate from an endangered species. "Only you and I left from our species. If not you, who should I be with". Bad news, the male was severely ill. He knew that if he took the female as his mate, she might not survive losing her mate.

For whatever reason, the production team decided to destroy these points entirely by changing the first choice love interest (Do you understand how much scolding this drama asked by doing this???!!! The book-burning post got 2000 likes on weibo), which makes me absolutely speechless. What was supposed to be Bu Bu Jing Xin 2.0 has been turned into a generic reversed harem, overcoming obstacles to be with the loved one and shit...

The amazing thing is they're very good at throwing scraps at the original fans, so that a good portion of the book fans have remained sated. However, I have seen the script leak that has been proven legit so far. Season 2 is a complete disaster. Looking at the development, I believe the leak is very much legit. I simply won't let myself be fed by a false hope that the thing I know would happen won't happen.

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Who lost love forever?

I grow to like it after episode one.
There are 4 love rivals for FL, among the 5 characters, who will be losing love forever? No characters is perfect , that is how human are.
We have female lead who had lost her loved ones, been abandoned (thought she was abandoned); Male leads who are abused or tortured, another has mission to accomplish, hidden agenda. Selfishness, low esteem, insecurity, not trusting, the male leads and the female lead, eventually they could possibly losing someone they love or cherish.
That is what makes me hooked to this story, can't hate any main character. It stirs my emotion, thought. Superb , expressive acting. It has its depth. One of my favorite line (from her father) : hurt is done under name of "love"
I would prefer gentle and warm one like Seventeen., he has his own issueor weakness as well. While another was abused when young and can be abusive, but grow to love, in a wrong way, not expressive and perhaps could be one that makes me torn apart, Isn't that one of the ways , we could be losing someone we like/love?
If you are asking for a show full with action and fighting, fast moving, this may not be one; if you are about romance, you may like it, not super fast, but each episode has something to deliver. (it is not steamy hot, instant noodle kind of romance; but it still has some moments that warm your heart and put a smile with taste of sweetness. It may take time to see how things developed , why the characters could have such behaviours.)
Overall I am liking it, how the story progress, hopefully it will not rush to end or ending badly done. (quite a number of time, I was disappointed by the badly done ending or editing).

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A Xianxia definitely worth your time

I am pleasantly surprised with the story and how character driven it is.

First, I am used to Xianxia story having superpower and saving the world. Here in this story, our FL doesn't care about the world. She only seek for peace and love. Every characters are layers, have weakness and strength, clear motivations and desires. At first I was a little skeptical about the multiple suitors. But I am glad each suitors is a person themselves. They are not created to be mere tools or caricature to chase the FL and make our FL looks popular. They are WHOLE beings - who love the FL but also have their own thing. That is why this story has been so engaging. It's not gimmick. There is no misunderstanding tropes. Every action has clear consequences.

I never felt the episode is long. I am never in rush to see what next. Every interaction happens very organically. Every reaction is understandable. The story is pushed forward by the choices each character make - whether you like it or not, you understand WHY. It set in a fantasy, and each character is some kind of bigger than life being. But their struggle, emotions, pains are so all relatable. A very good sign of good story telling.

Costume, sets, music, make up, cinematography, coloring - everything is done with a lot of sense and love. The town in the first arc Qingshui Town, was built from scratch. The actors stayed to film an extra month to make sure they are satisfied with the story. Each actors and actress are doing so well in their character, elevating all the emotions to the next level. All except one (Shiqi) dubbed their own voice. Overall, it's a drama with a cohesive story and you can feel it was made with love and sensibility.

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Finding light after a long dark

The world of Dahuang can be a cruel and harsh place, as royal cousins Xiaoyao and Cang Xuan learn bitterly at a young age. Orphaned, lost, and tortured for many years, XY eventually hides herself in the small Qingshui Town working as the town healer of sorts. Also orphaned and forced to live as a hostage in a foreign kingdom, CX spends his early life fending off his murderous uncles. Fate brings him to Qingshui Town disguised as a winemaker. He and XY eventually reunite, but will they be together forever?

In that fateful town, XY meets and saves the gentle Tushan Jing, who she calls Ye Shiqi. He too has his own tale of betrayal and torture at the hands of his half-brother Hou. Nearby is the enigmatic and seemingly harsh Xiang Liu, caught in his own struggle with his past and devotion to his adoptive father. These figures are forever intertwined as they are thrust onto a high-stakes adventure of fighting for a better, kinder future while at all times fighting for their own survival.

I would have liked to see season 2 first before writing this review, but at this point it may be a while before it comes out. As it stands, however, season 1 has a clear story arc focusing on XY and CX's endeavors to win the latter the Xiyan throne, so as a standalone season, it mostly works. There are a lot of other characters and themes that will need S2 to round out their arcs fully, particularly for TSJ, who ends S1 in a bit of a miserable state. I hope to write more about TSJ after S2, as he is one of my favorites. His kindness and genuine love for XY are a bright light in this often dark tale of very complex people trying to make the best of an unkind world.

The cast bring the story to life, and the writing is satisfyingly solid throughout the whole drama. No useless fillers or characters in this tale. Music and production are memorable, with the rare bits here and there of questionable CGI. Bring on season 2!

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