Guo Se Fang Hua

Originally, I was intrigued by the premise of this drama and had high hopes for it. However, the leading actress's makeup was too heavy, and during the emotional scenes, I couldn't help but think of "Lost You Forever" because her acting was strikingly similar. It became so apparent that it was hard for me to enjoy the performance. Additionally, it seems that crews specializing in ancient idolized love dramas struggle to handle business-themed narratives effectively. The plot often feels trivial and overly drawn out, leading to increasing boredom. Furthermore, dramas with female protagonists are becoming standardized and formulaic, which is very similar to other dramas. The pacing is slow and the lack of novelty. The characters' interactions feel stiff and difficult to relate to.

The picture quality is very high, making it feel like you're watching a movie. It's definitely a great drama to kick off the new year. The clothing, intricate details, and the sea of peonies in the yard are truly beautiful. However, the dialogue is quite stiff, and the plot feels forced, which makes it uncomfortable to watch. The script is rather dull, relying heavily on rules and formulas, and many serious scenes come off as trivial. These shallow situations only lead to superficial emotions.

The cast consists of well-known actors from mainland China. While the heroine is working hard to promote the drama, her acting skills don't seem to be as strong as they once were. There are a few standout moments, but her expressions often appear stiff. On the other hand, the male lead, Li Xian, is quite impressive. His acting skills are evident, and he truly embodies his role.

The film boasts an impressive texture from start to finish, captivating viewers with its striking visuals. Each scene is enriched by a beautifully crafted setting that immerses the audience in the enchanting world of Flourished Peony, where vibrant flowers bloom and stunning landscapes unfold. However, despite these aesthetic strengths, Yang Zi's performance falls short of the emotional depth the drama requires. Her portrayal lacks the nuance and expressiveness needed to fully engage the audience, particularly due to her technologically enhanced appearance, which seems to restrict her range of facial expressions. Furthermore, the storyline feels predictable and dull, lacking the originality to elevate the drama beyond visual allure.

This series truly stands out with its highlights. Unlike other costume dramas, it adopts a bold and unique approach to costumes and makeup. It shuns the extravagant and unrealistic styles typical of ancient immortal dramas, instead focusing on a faithful representation of the attire found in cultural relics. From the characters' hairstyles and makeup to the intricate patterns and styles of their clothing, the presentation masterfully captures the essence of the Tang Dynasty. The creators have also meticulously crafted the settings. In the night scenes, the soft glow of oil lamps creates a captivating ambiance, while the muddy streets effectively transport viewers back to that era. However, despite my appreciation for these artistic choices, I have some reservations about the character portrayals. I find Yang Zi's acting lacking, especially when compared to Li Xian, who clearly outshines her performance.

I find the female main character to be a bit fragmented. When she interacts with others, she often comes off as overly optimistic. She reassures those around her that everything will be fine in the future and that success in her career will lead to better days. While I appreciate her positivity, I sometimes feel overwhelmed by these repeated affirmations. It makes me wonder: why is she so confident? It's like I have a special insight, knowing that she's the main character who is destined to succeed. However, the tone of her dialogue feels a bit off; she seems a little too soft, which can take away some excitement from the plot. Additionally, her success doesn't appear to come from her hard work or intelligence but rather from the good conscience of the male protagonist.

YZ's facial expressions are a bit stiff. I feel unemotional when she acts, but when she cries, it feels like overacting. I recall my memories of other dramas she has been in.