Qian Jin Nan Tao (2022)

Cliché, pochi mezzi e un ML ingessato

Una principessa di scarsa importanza viene data in sposa a un generale che non conosce e fugge il giorno delle nozze con l’intento di riuscire ad ottenere il divorzio. In una lontana città assume un’altra identità e conosce due uomini, anche loro sotto mentite spoglie, che finiranno per farle entrambi la corte. Si innestano nella vicenda conflitti fra regni nemici, una tratta di schiave, veleni, strane pratiche mediche, sacrifici, spie… tutto il pacchetto, insomma, compresa l’immancabile caduta dal dirupo e la perdita di memoria!

Il big boss è… boh, chi diavolo sia, cosa ci faccia lì e, soprattutto, perché alla fine sia stato sconfitto così facilmente – ferite dei duellanti a parte – me lo sto domandando ancora adesso. Spessore, zero. Non è neppure odioso, ma solo uno dei tanti personaggi secondari di scarso interesse che hanno popolato gli episodi. Fra tali personaggi secondari, spicca l’eccentrico dottore, davvero troppo, troppo sopra le righe, e in più con quella parrucca grigia su un viso troppo giovane. Boh. Se doveva far ridere non c’è riuscito.

Costumi e ambientazioni, pur in un contesto a budget probabilmente non troppo succulento, fanno doverosamente il loro lavoro, a patto di dimenticare che non vengono cambiati quasi mai. Il commento musicale spicca per la sua anonimità. I combattimenti sono abbastanza ridicoli, i voletti su e giù per i tetti potevano essere realizzati meglio (forse torniamo a questioni di budget?) ma, insomma, sopportabili.

Il trio degli attori principali mi vede divisa. Il protagonista, Li Jiu Lin, non mi è piaciuto per niente: poche espressioni e, molto spesso, uno sguardo fisso in un viso melenso mi hanno impedito di affezionarmi a lui. Perlomeno, sa baciare. Molto meglio il secondo violino, il giovanissimo Wu Cheng Xu, decisamente più vivace e soprattutto più comunicativo. Chi invece mi è piaciuta veramente tanto è la protagonista, Chen Fang Tong, che ha già una discreta carriera alle spalle. E’ stata espressiva il giusto, nel modo giusto, al momento giusto. Plausi.

Le interazioni fra i membri di questo triangolo amoroso sono state molto naturali e ben rappresentate, così come il rapporto di amichevole inimicizia fra i due maschi. Niente da dire, qui: questi tre insieme hanno funzionato davvero bene. Giova sottolineare come ci siano state diverse scene piuttosto osé, per i canoni di un drama cinese, tra cui addirittura una breve scena in cui sono in tre a letto. E poi, beh, diversi “momenti senza camicia” davvero apprezzabili.

Che dire, che dire… la storia in sé è terribilmente cliché e piena di buchi, procede in modo a tratti stentato e alla fine risulta anche un po’ noiosa. I colpi di scena sono talmente prevedibili che chiamarli colpi è ridicolo, al massimo sono spintarelle. L’unico forse vagamente imprevisto è quello degli ultimi secondi, che sembrerebbe far presagire una seconda serie. Non so se mai la faranno ma, nel caso, dubito che la guarderò.

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Surprisingly engaging. Entirely bingeable!!

I started watching this fully expecting it to be silly and nonsensical and a good distraction - and it was - but interestingly - it was quite a bit more… and I actually enjoyed it.

The overall story is not new and seemed like a “mush-mash” of other fluffy historicals. But even though the FL was typically over the top and antics-oriented - the drama managed to convey a FL character that was independent and open-minded. The values portrayed were female empowering and I liked that.

It has a reverse harem theme but not in a gratuitous way. The FL openly admires the male form - and female as well - she can admire a beautiful woman without malice. She is Portrayed as comfortable with her own emotions and wishes and demanding equality in her relationship. At first she could be viewed as silly but we do get a sense of her pure and honest heart. She is practical and direct in her admiration.

The MLS are both wonderful and our FL has good chemistry with both. I loved that this was a love triangle but - not really. Instead it actually came across as our our FL just exploring her options to figure out who she connected better with physically and from the heart. She had enough chances to check out who really made her heart race! She also treats both MLs sincerely and wholeheartedly. Once she figures it out she commits to her choice and all parties respect and support that. So no toxic love triangle.

Our course all is that aside — this was a visual feast when it comes to MLs. Enough shirtless scenes of these two gorgeous men who emoted strength as well as tenderness just like I like my leading characters.

If you are okay with a bit of silliness with a not so perfect story nir production - this is a fun quick watch with a twist at the end that might mean another season —— and I would not mind giving a second season a try if that’s the case.

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A handsome ML and some satisfying PDA

OK - so the story was full of holes and didn't have much substance - but the chemistry between the actors was terrific, and I appreciated the little twists in the story along the way and at the end. The ML was worth every scene he was in especially because he's gorgeous - but the FL was irritating as hell. Maybe her sister would have been a more fitting FL.

The best part of this production for me was the PDA - real kisses, not those pressed lip fake kisses. Not overdone or shocking - but real and romantic, and that made the series for me and earned a 7.5 rating. That's why I look for ROMANTIC historical stories. If you're looking for something light to watch in between serious drama, this one will do! (And looking at the ML is worth it!)

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Cute, Small FL x Big, Dependable ML

I binged this in two days, and this drama is surprisingly good!
This is a no-brainer, comedic type of drama that makes me laugh all the way to the end, but it has a decent plot that wraps the story together. Also, the couple's height difference??? FL literally can disappear behind ML.

FL is a cute, witty, free-spirited girl, kinda typical for costume drama, but the actress plays her so good that it doesn't feel annoying? She's pretty, quick on her feet, think and make decision quickly to the point of reckless, but she's a fun person! I liked her character a lot.

ML is calm, thoughful and dependable. A bit Lan Wangji-esque in my opinion, and I loved his character a lot as well. (He's also super pretty!)

Also, the supporting characters are portrayed so well! They all have a good chemistry with each other, and their personalities are not so complex to comprehend.

Overall, this is for you if you want to see a lighthearted, comedic drama that makes you feel good after.

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In Need of Scissors

Watching Decreed By Fate is both a delight and relieve. Yay. Here's to Chinese historical romcom that has good script writing! No loop holes, dragging or missing scenes, just 16 episodes Korean style including the cliff hanger that will guarantee an audience for the next season.

Story
This series has classic tropes like the straightforward, feisty heroine and two cool, tall, good-looking guys who fall in love with her at first sight. There are some unexpected turns as well. I like the idea of a heroine who sets up a divorce agency right after her forced marriage. It felt good to watch her respect and defend freedom rights, to admire the beauty of people, male or female. The love triangle is not the usual battle of love where someone comes out in smiles and the other has to lick his wounds in private. This trope is used to explore the many faces of love, and its origins. In that respect it makes perfectly sense why the ML ends up with the girl.

Acting/Cast
Chen Fang Tong is a good choice for the role of Rong Er. She combines huge Bamby eyes with a sturdy character, sharp wit. I like her chemistry with both ML's. Li Jiu Lin is born to play the classic ML. Really, this actor has the perfect visual and physique. He's believably able to carry the heroine, better than some actors who border anorexia to keep their assignments with fashion labels. Kudos also for Wu Cheng Xu, Cheng Yu Feng and Jia Yi, I hope to see more of them in future series.

Music
There's some nice music that fits the atmosphere in the series. I downloaded the beginning- and ending tunes for memory keep sake.

Rewatch Value
As soon as I finished this series I wanted to watch it again. The falling in love process is both hilarious and romantic, also there were some clues that I missed before. The script is that inventful.

Overall
Are there any faults in this production? Not really imo. Just one thing stood out for me like a sore thumb, the stringy bangs of the general's wig. Jeez, they looked like mucus strands to me that made me run to my scissors to ease the kissing scene. Anyway, I really recommend this gem.

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Altruistic Female Warrior of Wholesomeness

Have you ever wished you could watch a Chinese historical drama without tearing out your hair, or wishing the saccharine sweet heroine would just die already?

Well, if you have, here's a Chinese historical drama for you!!

Imagine a young noblewoman heroine that runs away from her arranged marriage because she wants to do some good in the world, besides get married and have kids. And yet, she isn't a martial arts genius, or another wooden pretty face with no acting ability.

She is wholesome, relatable, and has a good heart, without being a naive idiot. Sure, she certainly needs help to fight the bad guys, but that made her more realistic and relatable.

This was an amazing surprise, and I actually really like when a heroine genuinely likes both the FML and SML, and slowly figures out which one is a better fit for her. It's a great change from the SML who does everything for the FL and the FL has no feelings for him, as she falls for the FML which treats her like crap.

I want the FL to have feelings for both the MLs, because that is real character developement and way more relatable. Anyway, absolutely enjoy this up-beat historical drama that got the characters just right.

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Short sweet drama! No nonsense…

Storyline and actors are great. Not too sticky and childish. FL is outgoing, independent and strong. Has a lovable character, happy go lucky type who wants to help anyone who were treated unfairly. Misperception during her wedding day, caused her to run away seeking help to get herself a divorce. As no one dared to take her case (blessed marriage by the emperor), she has no choice but to setup her own matchmaking business and get the divorce done by herself.

Her husband (ML1) went to find her and at the other hand, also searching for his lost cousin. ML2 is also there in the same city investigating some spy organisation group (same group who abducted ML1 cousin). So both met FL, can feel that both ML does love the FL so much. Though in few scenes there’s some jealousy but it was still sweet, the the choice is always given to the FL. I love how genuine the 2 ML treats the FL.

Li Jiu Lin in this drama is a general, so he plays the role quite well. Soft when being with the FL (not clingy) but stricter side when handling tough situations. I think he plays ancient costumes drama better than modern ones, he really have the general look.

ML2 looks like a Korean guy, sweet and funny. Good Kung Fu too. The synergies between the actors were really fantastic. Highly recommended for people who want a good laugh, less nonsense show. I myself watched this like 5 times.

Storyline is logical and very easy to follow. Ending of course opened an opportunity for Season 2, but it ended pretty well. At least not just hang there like “Oh! My Lord”. Bleh…

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It's good to watch. Leads are awesome.

It's a new concept, that it started with the idea of divorce..till the middle of the series i thought ML would not have a chance..
The male lead has uncanny resemblance with another senior actor of his country, but the acting skills are very different.
The FL appears younger and childish ..
Yes i felt she was childish sometimes..and not able to decide..
It ok to watch it, nothing new
But what made this to be watchable was
The 2nd male lead, i like watching him since Unforgettable love,
And the sync between the leads is really on spot, awesome. You can re-watch for them alone.
The last few minutes had me almost have a heart break.
What is little off is the translation and subbing sync .
But you can watch with out any hesitation

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Yay for the scriptwriter ??

A period drama that allowed a female to be able to almost be equal to men and doesn’t get punished for it. It is a well balanced story of romance, comedy and action. Male actors are all beautiful & charismatic. I was rooting for the Second male lead I think because he has a better chemistry with the FL. There’s section of the story that was rushed and don’t have clear explanation but not enough to dislike this series. The story is light but well balanced. The costumes were beautiful. The series ending left viewers hanging so I am seriously hoping there will be another season. ??It’s worth bingeing and you won’t regret it. And last note: those two male actors ARE SO GORGEOUS!!!

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Rien d'exceptionnel, mais se laisse regarder (en faisant l'impasse sur la FL)

Après tout ce temps (beaucoup trop de temps même), j'ai deux bêtes noires dans les dramas chinois. Le nombre d'épisodes et les personnages féminins.
Les dramas où je n'ai rien à redire sur elles (FL) sont si rares que je passe la plupart du temps pour une chieuse, mais ok. Je peux vivre avec l'étiquette de l'éternelle insatisfaite des FL dans les dramas chinois.

C'est une histoire légère avec une intrigue mince, mais correcte. Si pour certains 6.5 c'est bas, de mon point de vue c'est honnête. Je n'aime pas cette habitude de toujours surnoter à fond les dramas alors qu'ils ne méritent pas certaines notes, mais bref, ce n'est pas le sujet.

La FL ! Elle est déplaisante sur pas mal de points, espiègle pour pas un rond (les tentatives sont minces et peu concluantes), disgrâcieuse et mal élevée. On ne m'enlèvera pas de la tête que parler la bouche pleine et cracher des miettes partout est mal élevé et disgrâcieux. Plus globablement, pour moi, l'actrice ne convient pas au rôle.
En revanche, les deux ML sont sauvent la mise. Ils sont vraiment bons dans leurs rôles respectifs. Entre l'un et l'autre, le coeur balance.

Bien que sans surprise, il est amusant d'être romantiquement en désaccord avec la FL. On termine sur une fin ouverte qui laisse penser à une suite.

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A delightful, sexy threesome

Finally, a Chinese historical that managed to tell a complete story in 16 episodes! Once they cut out all the interfering emperors, evil concubines/queen mothers, obsessed love rivals and palace intrigue, they were able to produce a drama that had just enough intrigue to be interesting, contained plenty of cute/romantic/sexy moments and, most importantly, didn’t fatigue the viewer. Bravo! Let’s hope more C-dramas follow this template rather than the one they’ve been using for years. UPDATE: Nooooo! I spoke too soon. Apparently, there's a sequel coming, and no doubt, it'll probably be angst-filled. I think I'll just skip it and end the story with them going off to war or whatever. They could have easily ended the entire series at episode 16 - General #2 was gone, off doing whatever he does, and MC was happily married. No need to further screw up this couple's life, ok?

Although I can't praise this drama enough, I’ll admit that this drama wasn’t perfect - there were a few scene editing issues, which created unanswered questions like how did ML come back to life after the witch doctor declared him dead or how did FL and SML get out of the water cage, but those things can be overlooked if the storyline doesn’t drag or become overly angsty around mid-way point. I’m honestly sick to death of delusional, obsessed female love rivals, forced political marriages and concubines. Yes, yes, FL was forced to marry in the beginning by imperial decree, but the forced marriages I’m talking about are those in which ML is being pressured by parents/emperor to marry an obsessed female. I have no problem with arranged marriage plots between ML/FL.

That being said, there is a love triangle in this drama, but it's so different than other C-drama love triangles. FL was not partial to either man until later into the series. She seemed to like both equally, and even leaned toward SML after their experience in the water cage. I’m so glad that she didn’t ‘friend zone’ him immediately, and the viewers were given some breathless, heart-pounding moments between her and Fang Xian Xun. I’m glad she took her time deciding which fellow she wanted to be with, and I liked her comment to her friend/sister, Ling, about having concubines. I agree – if men can have concubines, why not women? It’s clear she liked both men, and I’m all for the threesome she imagined and the drama gave us when 1) they were drunk and she was sandwiched between them in bed; and 2) when the earth vine tied them together. So cute! So sexy! So suggestive of a 'threesome', which I've not seen any other drama be brave enough to incorporate into a plot. There were a lot of sexy/suggestive moments with both men, letting us know she was attracted to both. Glad SML actually got a fighting chance and was actually preferred briefly. So tired of SML always getting friend-zoned and not given a chance to compete. I think it’s more realistic for the FL to be torn between the two (rather like us, the viewers!), especially if both are great guys.

It was also interesting how the drama tried to keep the identity of her husband a mystery. Of the two men, I personally preferred SML because he’s my type (sort of a rascal, and I loved his long bangs – boy, did he ever look hot when his hair was wet from a bath!), and of the two generals, I think he’s the more dangerous because he’s deceptively easy-going. He hid his ruthlessness behind a light-hearted smile. ML was much more serious and straightforward, although he certainly wasn’t above using deception to achieve his goals. Actually, I think she should have been paired with SML; ML just seems to mature for her in both looks and demeanor. Don't get me wrong - I liked him - but they just 'look' like an odd couple.

I was relieved there were no female love rivals even though ML’s cousin pretended like she and ML were going to be married in order to help hide his whereabouts. It was a brief moment, and the viewer knows it’s not true so only the FL experienced any angst over it. There was one thing that annoyed me – how everyone was hiding the fact from FL that she’d been poisoned. Just tell her! It’s not like she was the shrinking violet type of female that would have dissolved into a million pieces at the news. Just a pet peeve of mine – keeping the truth from someone in order to ‘protect them’ – dramas do a lot of that kind of thing, and it’s super irritating.

Because this drama was relatively short, there was no secondary couple romance. Even though Director Liu had a crush on Ling, it didn’t overwhelm or take away from the triangle going on between FL and the two generals. This lack of a secondary romance kept the drama moving and blissfully short compared to most C-dramas.

Overall, it was a light and amusing Chinese historical that managed to add some intrigue without being blogged down with an overload of villains, which most viewers wish would just drop dead and leave MC alone. It was much sexier than the average C-drama with its prolonged stares, bared skin and intimate touching, not to mention the ‘threesome’ thing that provided the sizzle.

You won’t be wasting your time watching this drama. I hope more Chinese historicals will follow this template in the future – keep it short like the Koreans at 16 episodes and eliminate, or drastically reduce, all those elements that drive viewers crazy. There's going to be a sequel, but at least, they ended in a way that you don't have to watch the Season 2, if you don't want to.

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