Back From the Brink (2023)

great chemistry between the main leads

I started this drama not having any expectations mostly because I was not particularly interested in Zhou Ye and did not even know who Hou Ming Hao was.

The first 8 episodes were slow, story was average and relationship between the two main leads was very typical of c-drama couples who first met: bickering like enemies.

I watched on, however and was gradually drawn into the story and drawn into the developing camaraderie of the two main leads, from getting used to each other to falling in love and even dying for each other.

Basically, the entire story was simple, about the male lead finding the decapitated parts of his body after being harmed by Su Ying and the female lead helping him albeit initially unwilling. Lots of adventures along the way as they tried to find the parts together and lots of things happened which also tested the strength of their love for each other.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this drama more than I expected and was glad that I started and continued with it because it became one of those dramas I waited for episodes to drop and couldn’t bear for it to end. I was touched by the love they had for each other, something which was not sudden or out of the blue but developed as they went through each adventure. This was largely because of the strong chemistry between the main leads - Zhou Ye and Hou Ming Hao - a winning factor in any xianxia and they look good together in the drama, like a real couple.

There were some comedic parts in the show, you know it when the music changed, I was perfectly fine with them. It gave the show a lighter feel and I did find some humour in some of those parts.

There were no illogical moments or irritating characters in the drama, at least nothing that I want to make a hoo-ha of. The only negative thing would be the amateur acting of some of the cast. Though they were not important figures in the story, when you could see the flaws, your emotions would somehow be affected.

So, yes, all in all, this was a good watch, I would recommend this to anyone who likes to watch xianxias with adventure and a strong chemistry between the main leads.

And yes, Hou Ming Hao did look rather charming in the drama.

Leggi di Più

A hot mess of finding my dragon body parts!

DON'T TRUST THE OTHER PEOPLE WHEN THEY SAY THIS IS THE BEST DRAMA OF 2023. THIS DRAMA IS FAR FROM IT... Had high expectations due to reading the reviews from others. This drama started good but lost me during half of it.

Like the storyline was for the male lead to find his missing body parts that the cruel ex lover scattered all over the world. The female lead got the protection scale which became her heart. She and male lead are destiny to be together. They go on a journey to find the remain parts of the male lead dragon body.

If they just focused on that part it might of been interesting , but adding too much on the sidelines really confused me. Like the male lead took his revenge pretty early on in the drama. i watched to 29 ep and still they only have found his leg, and his teeth aka sword? too slow...

Plus the leads get together really late. The male lead is just too afraid of getting hurt again... Poor female lead.

The female lead is pretty hilarious in the fact that she is really bold and not afraid of others.She stands up for the truth and for people/demons who are weaker than her. She also loves punching people.

Leggi di Più

A PERFECT DRAMA ???

I just can't believe it has ended. It 's the best drama for me. It was full of sweetness, comic, angsty, sad, happy mix together. I fully enjoyed every bit of it.


They are best couple gor me. The leads here support each other, solve things together and go through every hardships together.


The supporting characters are are also good here. They are funny and supportive of the leads and help them fullfill their goals.



After this i hope that they work together in another drama. I will rewatch it after sometimes. For future viewers, don't hesitate, don't confuse just start watching this.

Leggi di Più

A light-hearted Xianxia with one of the best power couples out there

The story: The story is refreshing for a Xianxia as it takes place entirely in the Human realm and there are no Gods and endless reincarnations and lifes to go through. Instead it is more of a fantastical journey of healing and treasure hunt for the missing body parts for the ML. Although it deviates from the novel I enjoyed most of the changes as it fleshed out the characters arc and emotions. There are a few story points that seemed a bit convenient ( but no more than in the usual Xinxia Drama) but for the most part the story was logical. One needs to be a bit patient though because things that leave questions in the viewers mind are often explained but in a much later Episode where it all comes together. I also enjoy that heavier moments are never dragged out for too long and there is a good rhythm of emotional moments and moments of levity. BFTB even keeps this rhythm in the second half of the story where XianXia typically become heavy and joyless.
There are no misunderstandings that are unnecessarily dragged out. Instead the strong communication between the characters is one of the Highlights of BFTB.

The characters: The main couple is one of the best I have seen. I enjoyed that Tien Yao is not the typical cold OP lead but starts instead as very weak and traumatized. Originally pure and naiv we first meet him at his low point corrupted by the horrible things that happend to him.His journey of finding his old self and learning to trust and love again is very beautiful. I also liked that he makes mistakes on the way and isn't perfect ( which is also a change from the novel, that I personally found enriching to the story, aka the famous EP 16 so many viewers were complaining about.)
Yan Hui is a gem. She kicks ass, is honest and protects our dragon. Although she also grows as a person on their journey she is the rock that braces the storm. She is steadfast and true to herself, not to mention straightforward, brave and hilarious. She takes a lot of rejection from TY early on but she is not a push over and Tian Yao has to fight for her to get back in her good graces. There are a few instances where she wasn't the smartest cookie around, but I think that was mostly played for comedic effect. Most of the time she is smart and thoughtful.
The side characters were also lovable but in this drama the MLs are really the focus of the show which I prefer. Especially BXS functioned as a stand in for the viewer who is rooting for the MLs. He was convincingly cunning and broken but at the same time funny. He does try to insert himself between the couple for a few episodes but I didn't mind because Tien Yao really really needed the competition as a wake up call. Also BXS remained harmless and never steered into obsessive 2nd ML territory that cannot let go.
On the downside I found the villains too one dimensional and their obsessions went too far. Their motivations did not make much sense to me because they lacked any form of self reflection and self-awareness. It also made it difficult to imagine how Tien Yao could fall for Suying in the first place, because I can't imagine her icy face being able to pull off the deception required to fool him.

The Acting: Both the female and male lead are pure eye candy.
I was impressed with both of their acting, especially the emotional scenes where handled well by the leads. The acting for Tien Yao required a subtle change over time as our Male Lead is healing from his emotional Trauma and is beautifully portrayed by Hou Minghao who has very beautiful and expressive eyes. So it makes sense that he come across as repressed in the beginning. But he becomes more majestic and emotive as the story progresses. Also he manages to convincingly portray someone very young at one point which impressed me. I was almost wondering if that was really the same person, if Hou Minghao has some secret youth elixier I want it.
The other actors do a good job as well especially BXS cunning and mischief was well portrayed by Riley Wang. The actor who portrayed both the fox king and his twin also deserves to me mentioned here because he pulled of the double role really well.

Skinship: This couple has some of the most natural interactions and really delivers a feeling of closeness throughout. The kissing scenes are sadly few and very underwhelming ( the typical lips touching not moving kind) but all the other interactions and hugs, which are plenty, make up for it in this case, so I didn't mind the lackluster kissing as much as I would have otherwise.

OST: The Soundtrack is epic and beautiful. My personal favourite is the song sung by our very talented ML Hou Minghao which features lyrics that reflect the MLs heart perfectly. Especially because Tien Yao is not very expressive about his feelings having the ML sing them is especially meaningful.

Costumes: I really liked the costumes as they become more luxurious as the ML regains his strength. They are not as eye catching as those in LBFD but given that this Drama does not deal with Gods and ancient Demons but instead is set in the human realm the more sutle costuming suits the setting better. I also liked that the colors of the clothing reflected the purity/ naivety of the characters.
If a character becomes "dark" chinese Drama s always have the same evil makeup for the actors which BFTB does as well. I wish they would change that up a bit, especially since the greatest aholes usually live in heaven, but it was not as over the top as TTEOTM, so I can look past that.

CGI: The CGI is not the best but I got used to its quirkiness. The monsters look like pokemon which seems weird in a Live Action setting, but I got used to it by the end and now like their uniqueness. I liked that the spirits where portrayed in various stations of development with weaker spirits not having a completley human form, that is something I haven't seen before. The Backround CGI looked really beautiful. The wirework for the fights could have been a bit better as well, but it was not something I mind since Xianxia fight scenes seems a bit ridiculous most of the time anyway. If anyone has watched TSL one will notice that some of the same sets were used for both Dramas. But given that BFTB had a medium budget I think the Drama looks really good for its budget.

The ending: Although it is a happy Ending it felt similarly rushed as the one LBFD had. This seems to be a trend recently, that really annoys me especially when the novels ending had no such issue. This is also the reason for not giving BFTB full points.

All in all I really loved this show and BFTB has become my second favourite Xianxia Drama behind LBFD. It' s story is a welcome change from the usual Xianxia storys and while I dig all powerful cold characters like Dongfang Qingcang I loved the pure, tortured and emotional Tien Yao because these types of characters are much rarer. Also Yan Hui is easily the most kickass and awesome FL in all of Xianxia. Objectively I have to give LBFD the edge in terms of overall quality and its villains but my obsession with BFTB was as great if not greater.
I prefer these lighter more fun Xianxia shows over the angsty, noble idiocy induced melodramas such as AOL, TMOPB, ALP or TTEOTM. I think we are really lucky to have such high quality and light Xianxia Shows released so close after another, after TSL was also very nice this year.

Rewatch value is high for me ( already rewatched 3 times) as I get to really appreciate the subtle changes in TY. Watching it again especially after the reveal in the last couple EPs makes me see the earlier EPs in a new light.

Leggi di Più

A millennial Dragon Loves a Taoist Girl ❤️?

Back from the Brink" is an enthralling Chinese drama that captivates viewers with its compelling storyline, well-rounded characters, and satisfying ending. This drama takes audiences on an emotional rollercoaster, blending intense moments with heartfelt connections and personal growth.

The story revolves around the lives of four individuals from different backgrounds who find themselves facing their darkest moments. As fate intertwines their paths, they are forced to confront their pasts, overcome their struggles, and ultimately find redemption. The narrative beautifully explores themes of love, friendship, forgiveness, and second chances.

The drama's character development is one of its greatest strengths. Each character is complex and multifaceted, with their own personal demons to confront. Their growth throughout the series is both realistic and inspiring, allowing viewers to connect deeply with their journeys. Whether it's the flawed yet determined protagonist or the supporting cast members, the performances are outstanding, bringing depth and authenticity to the characters.

The chemistry between the actors is remarkable, and their portrayals breathe life into the story. The romantic relationships in "Back from the Brink" are delicately woven into the plot, adding an extra layer of emotional resonance. The drama skillfully explores the power of love to heal and transform lives, providing viewers with memorable and heartwarming moments.

As the series progresses, it maintains a well-paced narrative that keeps viewers engaged. The plot twists and turns, keeping you on the edge of your seat, and the emotional beats are delivered with precision. The production values are top-notch, with stunning cinematography and a well-curated soundtrack that enhances the overall viewing experience.

While "Back from the Brink" can be emotionally intense at times, it also offers moments of lightness and humor to balance the drama. The dialogue is well-written, showcasing both poignant and witty exchanges between characters. The series strikes a remarkable balance between its dramatic elements and its ability to uplift and inspire.

With a satisfying ending that ties up loose ends and provides closure for each character's arc, "Back from the Brink" leaves viewers with a sense of fulfillment. It reminds us that no matter how dire the circumstances may seem, hope and resilience can lead us back to the light. The conclusion of the drama is both poignant and heartwarming, leaving a lasting impression.

In conclusion, "Back from the Brink" is a must-watch Chinese drama of 2023. Its engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and emotional depth make it a standout production. If you appreciate captivating narratives, strong performances, and a good balance between drama and heartwarming moments, this series should be on your watchlist. Prepare to be moved and inspired by the resilience of the human spirit as it triumphs over adversity.

In "Back from the Brink," there are several important aspects that viewers should know:

Redemption and Second Chances: The drama explores the themes of redemption and second chances. It highlights how individuals can overcome their past mistakes and find a way to rebuild their lives. The characters in the drama go through personal transformations and learn to forgive themselves and others.

Personal Struggles: Each character in the drama faces their own personal struggles and challenges. These struggles are integral to their growth and development throughout the series. The drama delves into issues such as family conflicts, career setbacks, emotional trauma, and societal pressures.

Interconnected Lives: The lives of the main characters in the drama become intertwined through a series of events. Their paths cross, and they find support, understanding, and love in unexpected places. The connections they forge with one another play a crucial role in their individual journeys.

Power of Love: Love is a powerful force in "Back from the Brink." The drama explores various forms of love, including romantic love, familial love, and friendship. Love becomes a catalyst for healing, redemption, and personal growth for the characters. It emphasizes the importance of genuine connections and the impact they can have on individuals.

Emotional Intensity: "Back from the Brink" is an emotionally intense drama. It tackles deep-rooted emotions and difficult situations faced by the characters. Be prepared for intense scenes that evoke strong emotions such as sadness, anger, and joy. The drama aims to strike a balance between intense moments and lighter, more uplifting moments.

Resilience and Hope: The drama emphasizes the resilience of the human spirit. It highlights how individuals can overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges and find hope in even the darkest moments. The characters' determination and perseverance serve as an inspiration, reminding viewers that there is always a chance for a brighter future.

By understanding these key aspects of the drama, viewers can fully appreciate the character arcs, emotional depth, and the overall message conveyed in "Back from the Brink."

Leggi di Più

The most fun and best xianxia of 2023!

Where to even begin. This story is set in a world where humans and spirits of all kinds coexist. There is a sort of enmity between them yet some fall in love with each other. Enter our main leads, a dragon that was betrayed by his ex and had to throw his heart scale away and our fl a Taoist, that was born with a heart disease and is alive due to that heart scale. And thus ensues the most fun adventure.

The best part of this drama is definitely the characters and the humour. Our main leads have a firy chemistry since the first time they meet. There interactions and bickering is just too fun to watch.

The fl in this drama is my favorite fl ever. She is strong and smart. Yet kind and fun. What she lacks in magic, she just uses brute force to cover. I've never once seen a fl so logical and soo relatable. She holds are grudges well and I'm so glad for it. She also pays back her favors ten fold. The most adorable, smart and downright beutiful soul fl I've ever seen.

The ml is just as adorable too. Hou Ming Hao 's acting really suprised me. He just has so much emotions. He suffers quietly. The ml probably has been through the most in this drama yet he has the purest heart of all.

The second ml Bai Xiaosheng, I won't lie I liked him better when he was a matchmaker to our couple. Later when he falls in love with the fl I kinda disliked him. But don't worry it lasts only 2-3 episodes and he is back to being the best matchmaker ever.

Then comes the supporting casts. ZhuLi and Huang Xiao Yan, these two are soo soo cute. Adorable kids fall in love and try their best to protect each other. Xiangge and Feng Qing Shou probably has the hottest setup in the story. Rival business owners who actually love each other. They have a beautiful relationship too.

My favorite parts in the drama is when all the three couples gather together, helping each other or just having fun. The friendship in this drama really makes me feel all warm and fuzzy.

There are so many other couples that were tragic. The snake man and monastery's QinYu. Xi Feng and Pufang. Chen Yi and Xue Lin, Lu Musheng and Fox Princess, etc. I liked their story bits too.

I really liked the wise old men Shifu and brush Sprite as well as Yan Hui's senior Zi Chen. As for the villains they are despicable but I like how none of them are one dimensional, they all have a proper reason to be how they are.

Bonus: the songs are super nice. Also this drama has a really beautiful opening ;)

Leggi di Più

The Heart Never Dies

Starting with curiosity to watch Hou Minghao's first costume drama, I ended up falling in love with each part of this drama.


Story,
Such a new breeze for the Xianxia world. Even though it is almost like Xuanhuan with many fight scenes, this drama really one of a kind for me. This drama surprisingly is my preference for the beginning to the end. I started watching this with no expectations, but it turns out to be one of my top-list favorites drama. The second drama that makes me cannot move on after The Blood of Youth. For me, the simplicity makes this story can be enjoyed anytime,

Cast and Acting,
Shout out to the casting crew and all of the actors for their effort to make this drama so perfect. I'm glad that this is one of the dramas that have perfect actors for each character. I know Hou Minghao from his drama with Cheng Yi but not paying attention to him at that time. But this piece really opens my eyes to how amazing he is as an actor. Now I can't imagine Tian Yao if it's not Minghao. It's the same for Zhou Ye as Yanhui. Even though it's not perfect, she really has a good job to portray Yanhui. I don't have any complaints about all of the supporting actors too.

Music,
This is definitely the perfect example when I said the ost should have matched the drama perfectly if they want to succeed. Because the soundtrack is one of the important aspects of the beautifulness of the drama. I know when I heard Zhou Shen and Liu Yuning singing ost, this drama really worth full of my attention. I fell in love with Minghao's voice too.

I dare said that this drama is one of my top-list favorite Xianxia dramas. It is worth watching and of course for me to rewatch. Now if someone mentions Mighty Millenium Dragon, All that I can think of is just Tianyou and Longbaobao <3
Hou Minghao, I really looking forward to your next costume drama!

Leggi di Più

Neo Hou's first xianxia drama!

I'm really in love with the couple in this drama. I'm re-watching this for the second time. The character development was at a good pace. There's a lot of funny banters at the first few episodes in the drama before it starts getting serious as it gets deeper into the story. There's already a few sweet scenes and there's more later throughout the episode. A good mix of romance, comedy, and drama.

I have watched Till the End of the Moon too, and I have to say... I felt much better watching Back From the Brink, mostly because even though there were misunderstandings that led to thoughts of betrayal, they overcame it and gained back each other's trust. Lots of sweet scenes, a much healthier relationship compared to the couple in TTEOTM.

I knew about Zhou Ye from Word of Honor, and fell in love with Neo Hou's acting after watching this! They're so cute together which is why I'm watching it again!

You won't be disappointed. You'll get to see the different sides of his character, Tian Yao! Both Neo Hou and Zhou Ye were great in this drama!

Leggi di Più

Not your typical Xanxia thank goodness!

Never thought there would be a Xanxia with no heavenly realm, psychotic second lead obsession and multiple lives which explains why I loved this drama so much! I am not a fan of the typical trope of killing the one you love for the greater good on repeat. The constant misunderstandings and angst is too frustrating and draining for me. Hence BFTB has been a breath of fresh air and had all the elements in a story (romance, adventure and comedy) that kept me entertained, invested and sad when drama ended. I’ve only been able to finish 2 other Xanxia which were LBFD and TSL both of which I also enjoyed because it did not fit the typical Xanxia mould.

Drama was not perfect nor a masterpiece but the positives far outweighed the negatives.

What I loved:
• gorgeous leads who had amazing chemistry despite the lack of passionate kisses. The progression of their relationship from annoyance/bickering to friendship then lovers was beautifully done. Except for one silly incident their trust and support for each other never wavered. My favourite CP!
• FL who can fight and was intelligent, straight forward, righteous yet practical. Loved her face slapping lol My favourite FL !
• ML who overcame his past trauma to become the most loving and tender ML. Gives FL everything yet ask for nothing in return. I loved the way he says “Yan Hui “ and how he sharpens knives for FL to vent her frustration. My favourite ML!
• the quest to find ML’s body part meant CP were together for most of the drama. Lots of CP interactions, working together for a common goal. Loved the character development, consistency and pace.
• the endearing secondary cast and couples
• no delusional second lead that serve no purpose other than obsessing over main lead from
start to end.
• the dodgy cgi that somehow works with the adorable cartoonish characters

What could have been better:
• the stabbing scene in episode 16. Understand it was a plot device but was poorly executed. Please bear with this unfortunate plot device in an otherwise great script as the drama redeem itself within next few episodes.
• kept BXS character as a shipper of the CP instead of falling in love with FL. Luckily this didn’t last long.
• one passionate kiss at least? Why c drama why?
• although this was a happy ending would have appreciated more scenes of their reunion and life together. Why c drama why?

Highly recommend this drama as well as the novel.

Leggi di Più