Evaluation: The Story Of Rose [China]

THE SHORT VERDICT:

On the upside, Liu Yi Fei makes for a really charismatic and compelling protagonist; I used to be very a lot absorbed by this story, and keen to be a fly on her wall.

On the not-so-upside, our story strikes quick and has many arcs to it, a lot in order that it may well truly really feel like a bit a lot, generally, being a fly on stated wall. 😅

Present additionally makes some narrative choices that I personally didn’t desire, which did add a bit, to my sense of fatigue.

All that stated, I assumed this one was very stable and worthwhile, and would advocate it.

THE LONG VERDICT:

I really feel like in case you’re a fan of Liu Yi Fei, then this drama is principally a must-see, for you.

In spite of everything, she is our titular Rose, and this story actually is all about Rose (nicely, Yimei), and showcases her  magnificence, allure, and her power, even within the midst of her faults and foibles.

For those who’re not already a fan of Liu Yi Fei, then it’s attainable that this present may flip you into one?

Supplied you want a brisk mix of household drama and a narrative of non-public journey, that’s, as a result of that is, for my part, what Present is.

I went into this not really realizing what to anticipate, and acquired sucked in inside minutes – after which proceeded to remain sucked in for a lot of episodes afterwards. 😁

I did get slightly fatigued in our last stretch, however I’ll speak extra about that later, and in addition, I recommend how one can keep away from getting fatigued like I did.

OST ALBUM: FOR YOUR LISTENING PLEASURE

Right here’s the OST album, in case you’d prefer to hearken to it whilst you learn the overview.

General, I very a lot loved the music on this present; I assumed that it was all very well-chosen and utilized. Specifically, I favored when the music was melodious and poignant, as a result of I felt that that labored very nicely with the overall temper in our drama world.

Nevertheless, I have to say that the monitor that stood out to me probably the most, is Observe 2, Shine Brighter, which lands as a robust anthem for Yimei’s life, the place she wants to choose herself up and stand sturdy, after every setback or disappointment.

For those who’d desire to hearken to that on repeat as a substitute, right here it’s by itself as nicely, simply right-click on the video and choose “Loop.”

HOW I’M APPROACHING THIS REVIEW

First I’ll discuss the right way to handle your expectations going into this one, and what viewing lens can be most useful.

After that, I discuss what I favored and favored much less, masking the extra macro facets of Present, after which I give the selective highlight to characters and relationships, in a separate part.

Lastly, I additionally spend a while speaking about my ideas on our finale episodes.

For those who’re concerned with my blow-by-blow reactions, &/or all the assorted Patreon members’ feedback through the course of our watch, you may like to take a look at my episode notes on Patreon right here.

MANAGING EXPECTATIONS / THE VIEWING LENS

Right here are some things that I believe can be useful to bear in mind, to maximise your enjoyment of your watch:

1. Suppose private journey, not romance

Simply primarily based on the casting alone, we are able to see from the truth that there are three male leads, who every play a big half in Yimei’s life, that it’s unlikely that we’re getting a romantic happy-ever-after in the best way we have a tendency get, in conventional romantic tales.

As a substitute, the romance right here is in Yimei’s life; she is the rationale we’re right here, and this story is known as after her. That is her story, with all the nice, the unhealthy and the ugly, and she or he alone makes this worthwhile.

Conserving that in thoughts, helps.

2. Breaks might be useful

What I imply is, Present strikes from arc to arc (and subsequently, male result in male lead) in fairly fast succession.

It makes story sense, in that there are often time skips concerned between arcs, however within the viewing expertise, it may well get tiring adjusting to a brand new arc and new male lead, so quickly after placing the earlier arc and male result in mattress.

For those who really feel that sense of fatigue, I’d recommend taking a break between arcs, in order that the transferring on feels extra natural to you as a viewer.

Letting a while cross in actual time for you, would probably assist make the story development really feel extra natural to you.

STUFF I LIKED

Present is sort of prettily filmed

From the second I set my eyes on the opening credit, I used to be spellbound, you guys.

I discovered the opening credit (above) so stunning and mesmerizing, that I discover myself staring, slightly bit, each time I watch them.

Present is a little much less fairly than that, usually talking, however I nonetheless discovered all of it very simple on the eyes.

Present is absorbing

I watched this present in batches of 4 episodes, with week-long gaps between every viewing, and I’ve to say, every time I sat all the way down to watch a brand new batch of episodes, I acquired in a short time and absolutely absorbed into this drama and its story world, each time.

I believe that claims rather a lot about how absorbing I discovered this present.

It’s a little bit of a double-edged sword, definitely, as a result of there have been some parts that I discovered arduous to look at, due to what was happening with our characters, a lot in order that I truly took breaks at factors.

That’s not a poor reflection on Present’s high quality; the truth is, I’d say that it’s testomony to Present’s high quality, as a result of I solely took these breaks as a result of I cared about our characters a lot.

I very a lot loved being a fly on Yimei’s wall, and that’s together with all of the arduous to look at scenes; I simply wished to be there for Yimei, y’know? 🥲

How Present strikes shortly

One of many issues I favored about this story, is that it tends to maneuver fairly shortly.

There’s little or no room to get bored, as a result of stuff is trotting alongside so briskly, and in addition, any arc that you just may discover tough to look at, actually doesn’t final too lengthy.

I counted that as a superb factor.

The storytelling is environment friendly

That is associated to my earlier level, however isn’t fairly the identical factor.

I actually loved how environment friendly out storytelling was, as a result of usually, Present was in a position to give us a superb sense of a personality, simply from a single mini arc.

Right here’s an early instance of how I felt Present did a very nice job of giving us a way for Yimei as a personality.

[SPOILER ALERT]

E1-4. That opening arc, the place she obliviously shakes up Shihui’s life a lot, that he’d break off his marriage ceremony for her sake, tells us every part about how naturally charming Yimei is.

Might she have accomplished extra to ascertain some boundaries with Shihui?

Sure, however she was so younger, with so little life expertise, and solely an intern, whereas Shihui was her supervising supervisor, that I can fully perceive how she ended up simply going with the circulate, largely.

And, to her credit score, when Shihui does confess his emotions and provides her that necklace, she declines the present, whereas reminding Shihui that he’s engaged to be married.

After that, the factor that basically sealed the deal, for me, with Yimei, is how she’s this curious however great mixture of daring however variety, through the fallout.

She doesn’t hesitate to indicate up on the workplace, within the aftermath, although everybody’s staring and speaking, and when she hears that Shihui’s ex-fiancée Zhizhi is within the workplace along with her brother Zhenhua (Tong Da Wei), she doesn’t hesitate to face Zhizhi.

I like that she even wrist-grabs Zhizhi – after which takes her to a close-by cafe, the place she asks Zhizhi, with sincerity, why somebody as nice as her, would need Shihui again, after what he’d accomplished to her.

I like much more, that Yimei goes all gentle-cheeky with Zhizhi, and gives her cake – as a result of it energy consumed if you’re unhappy don’t depend.

I simply LOVE that visible, of the 2 of them sitting calmly collectively, sharing that slice of cake, when not so way back, Zhizhi had been able to tear out Yimei’s hair.

Isn’t Yimei simply fabulous? And effortlessly so? 🤩

It’s little marvel that she has suitors lining as much as make an impression on her, and is used to receiving flowers for no cause in any respect. It’s additionally little marvel that her default mode is to say no all the eye.

[END SPOILER]

Present’s real looking portrayal of relationships

Except for some missteps which I’ll discuss later, I actually favored that by and huge, Present presents relationships in a really real looking method.

As a substitute of being sanitized and packaged with neat bows, the relationships on this story world are likely to have their ups and downs, and their messy sides as nicely, and these relationships usually may not have a transparent starting or finish.

It’s not neat, sure, however that makes these relationships really feel advanced and actual, in all of their messy glory.

How Present gives moments of character evaluation

It didn’t take me very lengthy to appreciate that Present tends to do that factor, the place it has a personality analyze one other character – and that finally ends up framing the character fairly properly, for us, as an viewers.

[SPOILER ALERT]

E17-20. For instance, these episodes, we’ve acquired Susu (Wan Qian) explaining to Tina that Yimei comes from a scholarly household, and has had issues come fairly simply to her, and that’s why she will afford to make reckless choices.

And we even have Susu telling Yimei why Yimei feels that Susu and Xiewen (Lin Geng Xin) are alike; as a result of they’re each insecure and fearful, however that they each reply in another way to that insecurity.

The place Susu places up a wall and distances herself from folks, Xiewen works tougher to please.

[END SPOILER]

Perhaps some folks may not prefer it that Present has these moments of exposition for us, as a substitute of letting us uncover this stuff about our characters ourselves.

I personally discovered these expository spiels fairly useful in understanding our characters, notably with our story having the tendency to maneuver shortly.

STUFF THAT WAS OK

The cycle of Yimei falling in love

I do know it comes with the territory, coz it’s proper there within the solid record, that Yimei has a number of completely different male leads.

I used to be in-principle pleased with this, as a result of this story is about Yimei’s life in any case, and it’s completely regular for somebody to have a number of love pursuits over the course of their life, proper?

Nevertheless, due to the best way our story strikes shortly, like I discussed earlier, I did finally run into a way of fatigue.

Present does reserve it for me, although, by framing it for me, that Yimei reinvents herself and grows stronger, with every relationship that she experiences.

This undoubtedly helped me to just accept what seems like a unending cycle of Yimei falling in love, after which having that relationship finish, for varied causes. 😅

STUFF I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH

A few of Present’s narrative choices

Regardless that I did get pleasure from Present total, it makes plenty of narrative choices that I didn’t desire, which was an enormous damper, for me.

I share an entire bunch within the subsequent part that’s associated to Yimei’s one real love, however right here’s one different instance that’s not associated to Yimei.

[SPOILER ALERT]

In episode 32, Present signifies that there’s a risk that Zhenhua had fathered Xiaohe’s child.

I used to be VERY UPSET about this, and had many phrases to say about this, once I talked about it on Patreon.

Fortunately, Present fixes it earlier than lengthy, however that doesn’t take away the sense of betrayal that I’d felt, when this was floated.

To be clear, that sense of betrayal had nothing to do with Zhenhua as a personality; it was all about Present pulling out what felt like a grimy trick, from what felt like nowhere. 😒

[END SPOILER]

When Present makes an attempt to painting “particular, true soulmate love”

Pretty much as good as Present is, at portraying a passionate old flame, and a doubtful marriage, I assumed it actually struggled, when it got here to portraying a soulmate type of love.

General, I’d say that I favored this higher in idea than in execution – by far. 😅

Primarily, I felt like Present will get into a really try-hard form of house, in terms of establishing the concept that Yimei and Jiaming (Wallace Huo) are soulmates.

[SPOILER ALERT]

E29-32. I used to be pleased with Jiaming fixing the riddle through the exhibition, however low-key didn’t like his presumptuousness in putting in the audio system and music with out permission (he doesn’t even work there, y’know?), after which I cringed considerably, when Yimei danced to the music like she couldn’t assist herself.

That landed as try-hard, for me personally.

After that, due to my delicate vertigo sensibilities, I hated all of the flashing gentle scenes on the nightclub.

Effectively, that’s not the one cause I disliked these scenes, however that was an unlucky contributing issue.

I very a lot discovered the nightclub scenes try-hard, first when Yimei goes there to satisfy Jiaming for the primary time, after which in a while, when Yimei brings Taichu there, which I’ll speak extra about later.

I used to be pleased with Yimei agreeing to remain for noodles after which leaping to conclusions about Jiaming’s intentions, when she sees him taking Viagra.

However then, I didn’t just like the execution a lot, when it got here to Present establishing that Jiaming is Not Like Eric, in that he’s in a position to join with Taichu, when Eric (Peng Guan Ying) can’t.

Once more, I discovered it on the try-hard aspect of issues, and in addition, a bit on the much less plausible aspect of issues, as a result of if Jiaming is the type of one who’ll bluntly inform a 5-year-old that her rabbit’s useless, would he actually be so simply in a position to get on her wavelength, and discover a method to join along with her? I don’t know if I consider that.

However, I used to be nonetheless keen to simply roll with that.

The scene that made me cringe THE most, was the one the place Jiaming will get Taichu up on stage they usually carry out the tune that they’d written collectively.

I’m nice with that in idea, however I actually, actually didn’t benefit from the execution of that concept.

For my part, it was fairly badly accomplished, and felt VERY try-hard. 🙈

The flashing lights (which I nonetheless hated) have been one factor, however the full breakdown of straightforward logic, like Taichu’s voice being heard loud and clear, even when she steps away from the microphone, and isn’t sporting any form of clip-on mic, and Yimei having the ability to jam with the band on a whim, and have every part be so polished and in sync, was simply quite an excessive amount of for me.

I’m not exaggerating once I say that I cringed by means of all the scene, after which sighed in reduction when it was over. 😅

Once more, I get the concept that Present’s going for – that Jiaming and Yimei are made for one another – however I simply actually don’t jive with the execution.

[END SPOILER]

SPOTLIGHT ON CHARACTERS / RELATIONSHIPS

Liu Yi Fei as Yimei

I actually loved Liu Yi Fei on this function, I felt that she effortlessly lights up the display as Yimei.

Actually, each time she walked onto my display, I marveled at simply how stunning and sleek she is, and the way she makes everybody else appear like mere mortals, subsequent to her.

That magnificence and that grace, coupled with Yimei’s free-spirited nature, with a added streak of cussed independence, made her a compelling protagonist certainly.

[SPOILER ALERT]

E1-4. I like that Yimei decides to claim herself in terms of her profession course, although it means going in opposition to her mother and father’ needs for her to do her postgraduate research.

Within the means of her getting the job, I like how we see that she’s daring but guileless, on the identical time.

Doesn’t she have chutzpa, making use of for a job when she doesn’t have the expertise, after which asking to borrow that scarf off a stranger – who seems to be the hiring supervisor?

And but, when she solutions that out-of-left-field query in regards to the scarf through the interview, she demonstrates intelligence, wit and a capability to suppose quick on her ft.

After which, in terms of coping with her new boss Tina, Yimei is observant of her new boss’s moods and quirks, and fast to adapt.

Like that entire factor in regards to the fortunate colour, and the way Yimei switches out the corn for sliced pink apple within the salad, as a result of pink is Tina’s fortunate colour that day.

And the way about the best way Yimei finds a method to sneak into that non-public occasion, so as to safe a gathering with that non-public collector, Mr. Teng, whom Tina actually needs to satisfy?

SO BOLD. And boy, does she look beautiful whereas pulling of her little heist.

The celebrities in my eyes for Yimei simply proceed to multiply, y’know? 🤩🤩

E5-8. I’m actually happy to see Yimei being such a pure, in terms of the curating work that she and Susu (I like her nickname for Gengsheng, so I believe I’m gonna keep it up) do in Shanghai.

YES. Our Yimei isn’t only a fairly face, she’s additionally a succesful and sharp younger lady, who’s worthy of the promotion that Tina provides her.

I’m additionally impressed on the method Yimei graciously declines, when Tina insists that she ask Eric to assist them out, with Mr. Teng’s subsequent go to.

I imply, Yimei’s freshly promoted, and owes all of it to Tina, who’d employed her within the first place, plus it’s unprecedented for a subordinate to refuse a request from Tina, so I do have a superb quantity of admiration for Yimei, for saying no, and sustaining her grace and composure, whereas doing so.

Plus, she’s additionally an advocate for equal rights and equal alternative, like when Zhenhua will get upset at the concept that Eric might have taken benefit of Yimei (the phrase she makes use of implies that it’s within the sense of bodily intimacy, tho it’s not clear within the subs), Yimei will get all huffy and states that ladies can reap the benefits of males too.

E13-16. I’m glad to see that Yimei continues to observe her coronary heart, at the same time as she comes to a decision to not dabble in romantic relationships for the foreseeable future.

It’s one other daring step, for her to give up her job and pursue a level in Psychology, due to how impressed she is, by particular wants youngsters, and their interior worlds, which she hopes to know higher.

This isn’t a part of some 5-year plan or something; she doesn’t appear to have a transparent concept of what she’ll do with this diploma, as soon as she’s gotten it.

She’s simply satisfied that that is what she must be doing, on this season, and that’s sufficient for her, to maneuver as many mountains as is critical, so as to make it occur.

It’s fairly one thing, and like Susu says, it truly is a present that Yimei has, to have the ability to observe her coronary heart so absolutely.

On the identical time, I do suppose that Zhenhua is correct in observing that Yimei has modified.

After I’m watching her on my display, to me, she’s nonetheless very a lot Yimei, so it was actually solely when Zhenhua articulate it, that it actually clicked in my head, that Yimei is coming throughout far more subdued than at first.

To which I’ve two reactions:

1, Liu Yifei actually is doing an incredible job of giving us a really completely different side of Yimei, whereas retaining Yimei’s core essence, and

2, This actually does present how a lot her relationship and breakup with Eric has impacted her.

It hasn’t modified the essence of who she is, however it’s undoubtedly serving to to form her, and I believe that’s so true of all the important thing relationships that we now have in life.

Issues might not have labored out with Eric, however this relationship will nonetheless go away its mark on her life, and this doesn’t must be a nasty factor.

Sure, Yimei is extra reserved now, however she can be extra considerate, and extra cautious, and extra studious and doesn’t even drink anymore, and none of those are unhealthy issues, proper?

E17-20. These episodes, it was good to see Yimei achieve readability on what she felt related to – and what she felt disconnected to.

It felt like a progress second, that she would notice that she was now not the Yimei who truly acquired excited to speak store with strangers at a networking occasion, and truly inform Tina so, with grace and honesty.

E25-28. I’m glad that Yimei finally ends up working with Tina once more, this time on her new artwork gallery.

This undoubtedly seems like one thing she would excel in along with her pure abilities, and I’m happy to see her exhibiting extra of that inventive, succesful self that we noticed, when she’d first joined Cyan.

Given how regretful Eric’s been at shedding Yimei all these years, I’m actually not too stunned that he reveals up and asks Yimei to present him one other probability to courtroom her.

It’s actually so clever of Yimei to not cause with him, however enable him to see for himself, that he’s not in a spot the place he can match into her life, by getting him to spend a day along with her and Taichu.

He tries, nevertheless it’s painfully apparent that Eric’s not good with children, and is awkward round Taichu, and principally doesn’t know what to do along with her.

I recognize how he tells Yimei that he’ll learn to care for children, and that he doesn’t wish to lose her once more.

I like how Yimei tells him gently, that he’s been doing simply nice with out her, and that not all regrets have to be made up for, and that she simply needs to look ahead.

I don’t know if that will probably be sufficient to persuade Eric to lastly put this a part of his life to relaxation, however I do suppose that Yimei’s made her stance clear.

[END SPOILER]

Zhenhua and Yimei

One of many relationships I loved properly, is the connection between Yimei and her brother Zhenhua.

The bickery sibling dynamic could be very plausible, and but, they assist one another and depend upon one another, regularly.

I like that they perceive one another so nicely, and care about one another so deeply, although they grumble about one another regularly. 🥲

[SPOILER ALERT]

E1-4. I like how Zhenhua reveals as much as choose up Yimei after the ball, when she’s stranded with no cash with which to go dwelling.

And in return, Yimei helps Zhenhua with nudging his blind date in the direction of assembly up in individual, which he’d been angsting about, on his personal.

I assumed that was fairly nice.

I assumed it was fairly nice, that Zhenhua involves the rescue with recommendation on the right way to efficiently flirt with somebody, to realize their curiosity. I discovered it amusing, that he would comment that somebody as stunning as Yimei has no sport, as a result of she’s by no means needed to have any. So true. 🤭

E13-16. I like that the sibling relationship between Zhenhua and Yimei doesn’t lose a beat, even along with her being in Shanghai.

I believe it’s actually caring of him to make that detour to Paris, simply to speak to Eric for a bit, to see if there actually isn’t an opportunity that Eric and Yimei might reconcile.

Aw. That’s actually loving of him, isn’t it? 🥲 Zhenhua’s a very good huge bro.

After which, I like that when Zhenhua stops by Shanghai to see Yimei, they fall proper into their simple bickering methods like not a day has handed. I like that.

I additionally love that Zhenhua’s so open to the concept of discussing his emotions for Susu, with Yimei.

Plus, he clearly trusts Yimei’s judgment, since he doesn’t even attempt to deny it, when Yimei pronounces, from listening to him discuss Susu, that he likes Susu, and he even asks Yimei to investigate for him, whether or not he really likes Susu, or is simply interested by her.

I like that too. I like this concept that Yimei is a confidant to Zhenhua, the best way he’s additionally a confidant to her.

[END SPOILER]

Wan Qian as Su Gengsheng / Susu

I’m very pleasantly stunned by how a lot I grew to get pleasure from Susu as a personality, notably given how reserved and distant she seems to be at first.

I like how she and Yimei turn out to be buddies (extra on that later), and I’m additionally glad that Present provides Susu’s personal story the highlight that it deserves, and treats her ache with respect and dignity.

[SPOILER ALERT]

E17-20. One of many issues I’m rising to like about Susu, is her potential to articulate issues, not simply by way of understanding another person an what makes them tick, but additionally, by way of understanding herself and why she may really feel a sure method.

The way in which she apologizes to Yimei for a way she’d been too fast to guage, is a good instance of that; she’s so regular and unflinching, even when she’s having to face a tough dialog with tough feelings.

She’s like this too, simply with an additional layer of gentleness, when she returns to Beijing from Shanghai, and makes peace with Zhenhua, by giving him that set of pajamas, and telling him that she does see him in her future.

After which she’s like this once more, when Zhenhua comes clear about how he’d met up with Xiaohe, and I simply discover myself melting within the face of her courageous honesty. Gosh, I like her. 🥲

E21-24. I’m glad for Susu, that she will get promoted to Tina’s place when Tina leaves for private causes; it feels prefer it’s a recognition of her abilities and expertise.

I actually admire Susu for being her personal individual as she takes up the function, and being daring to do issues in ways in which work for her, as a substitute of simply sticking to how issues have been accomplished, when Tina had been in cost.

E33-36. There’s additionally the factor the place Susu’s stepfather is accused of molesting the little woman who lives throughout the highway from him, and this became a really gripping arc, so far as I used to be involved.

It undoubtedly brings Susu’s previous wounds again to the floor, however in the end, I discovered this arc very cathartic, for Susu.

Her resolution, to assist the sufferer’s household to deliver her stepfather to justice, is a pivotal one which I really feel ended up bringing reduction and therapeutic, not simply to the sufferer and her household, however to herself and to her personal brother too.

Lastly, her expertise is getting used as proof in opposition to her stepfather, and is serving to elongate his sentence, even supposing the statue of limitations in her personal case is over.

And at last, her brother, who’s been traumatized by guilt all these years, can let go of that guilt, by testifying to what he’d seen his father do to Susu, and thus transfer on along with his life.

That scene the place he sobs and apologizes to Susu for holding silent all these years, is so uncooked and gutting; I can completely sympathize along with his wrestle, as slightly boy who was scared and didn’t know what to do. 🥹

In the long run, it feels becoming, that this arc closes with Susu telling her mom that she would proceed to ship Mother cash and let her keep in that home, offered she didn’t attempt to management Little Bro anymore.

This seems like an acceptable punishment for all of the occasions that Mother had been complicit in Stepdad’s crimes in opposition to minors, and I additionally recognize that this punishment ensures Little Bro’s freedom from the emotional chains which have sure him, all these years.

[END SPOILER]

Yimei and Susu

From pretty early in our story, we see a bond beginning to develop between Yimei and Susu, although Susu’s clearly reluctant about it.

However Yimei simply has this charming method of ingratiating herself with Susu, and never taking no for a solution, that simply retains rising the power of their connection, and I actually love that they turn out to be buddies, due to that. 🥰

[SPOILER ALERT]

E5-8. I like the best way Yimei simply gently bulldozes her method by means of Susu’s protests, in order that Susu wouldn’t be crying alone, however would no less than have somebody to eat with.

And, Yimei is smart to fake that she hadn’t heard something of Susu’s outburst over the telephone, after which astutely stick to that pretense.

I really feel like I can see Susu’s belief in Yimei rising, due to this.

Mainly, it feels to me like Susu and Yimei maintain sharing varied secrets and techniques, as they go, which makes them inch nearer to one another, despite themselves.

There’s this factor with Yimei realizing about Susu’s outburst, and there’s additionally the best way Susu will get drawn into masking for Yimei greater than as soon as, in terms of her relationship with Eric.

In fact, there’s additionally the best way Yimei steals Tina’s liquor for his or her espresso, which makes Susu a little bit of a hapless co-conspirator.

E13-16. I loving the friendship that’s grown between Yimei and Susu, the place Susu’s turn out to be her confidant, with whom she shares issues that she may not inform anybody else.

I like that.

I find it irresistible much more, remembering how stiff and distant Susu had tried to be with Yimei, all of which had failed to discourage Yimei from making Susu her pal. 🥰

It’s so nice that their friendship has grown so sturdy, that it continues to flourish, even with Yimei in Shanghai.

[END SPOILER]

Zhenhua and Susu [SPOILER ALERT]

In Present’s second quarter, it begins to tease a possible loveline between Zhenhua and Susu, and I discovered myself vastly amused by this.

On paper, they’re such an odd couple, however actually, they actually work fairly splendidly collectively, as a pair, and I discovered myself rooting for them from begin to end. 🥲

[SPOILER ALERT]

E9-12. It’s a comedy of unlucky errors that will get Zhenhua and Susu to spend time collectively, from Zhenhua dropping these dumbbells on his foot, to getting scalded on the exact same foot.

However Zhenhua’s very appropriate about Susu, that she might look chilly on the floor, however she is definitely very caring, when push involves shove.

If Present is making this an enemies-to-friends-to-lovers form of deal between them, I’m in full assist; I believe they make a cute pair!

And, for some cause, Zhenhua appears to have the ability to tease a smile from Susu, even when it’s at his personal expense, like when he tells her that his ft are the nicest trying a part of him, and she or he gives to present him a reduction on all of the nail polish that she doesn’t need anymore – in order that he could make his ft look prettier.

Hahaha! I acquired a kick outta that. 😁

ALSO. I like the truth that Susu is greater than able to dealing with all of Zhenhua’s nonsense, like when he tried guilty her for his foot harm. She’s fully unfazed, after which overturns his flawed logic with precise logic, and it’s simply nice. 🤩

I’m additionally getting a kick out of the truth that Susu’s a lot fitter and stronger than Eric, and I like how he’s come round to it, and is even consulting her about health now.

Importantly, it’s nice to see Susu getting extra comfy with Zhenhua, like when she will get that upsetting telephone name, and opts to have dinner and drinks with Zhenhua, as a substitute of coping with her unhealthy emotions on her personal.

That undoubtedly tells us that Zhenhua’s changing into an increasing number of of a pal in her eyes, and I like that rather a lot.

It’s so cute that she turns into his private coach, and I like that the private teaching even provides method to candid conversations the place Susu analyzes how Zhenhua actually feels about Xiaohe.

I’m additionally fairly stoked that when Yimei will get all drunk after breaking apart with Eric, they each go to get her, and produce her again to Zhenhua’s house collectively – after which find yourself consuming wine on the sofa and falling asleep collectively. Oooh!

Each step they take to getting nearer, I cheer on the within, coz I actually really need them to kind a significant connection, and presumably a loveline. 🤩

E13-16. Regardless that neither of them needs to confess it at first, it’s clear to see that Zhenhua and Susu grown very comfy with one another, and I actually like that they’ve conversations whereas they work out collectively.

The way in which they discuss Yimei, and whether or not it’s crucial to fret about her, can be very heartwarming; it seems like they’re Yimei’s guardian angels, someway. 🥰

And the way about that second when Zhenhua asks Susu when he’ll be capable to obtain that basic V-shaped torso, and she or he deadpans, “Quickly. Tomorrow.”

Hahaha, that’s so cute; I like that she’s joking with him now. 🤩

I like that Zhenhua’s in contact along with his emotions sufficient, to go to Susu’s hometown, as a result of he’s fearful about her, and since he needs to be there for her.

I believe it says one thing, that Susu would even present up at his resort room, drunk, and able to bounce into mattress with him.

Regardless that she runs away very first thing within the morning and tells him to overlook that something ever occurred between them, I consider that if she didn’t have a primary degree of belief and luxury with Zhenhua, she by no means would have gone to see him, regardless of how drunk she was.

In reality, it was most likely liquor-fueled honesty, that introduced her to Zhenhua’s resort room, sure?

The place, in her lowest second, the concept of being with him, truly introduced her consolation? 🥲

I can perceive why Susu would keep away from Zhenhua after sleeping with him, so I’m truly glad for Tina, who provides Susu the nudge that she wants, to be courageous about her feelings.

I love her for telling Zhenhua the total reality about her backstory, that she’d been sexually assaulted by her personal stepfather, as a result of that have to be actually arduous to speak about, even with some liquid braveness to assist her alongside.

And, I can perceive how this is able to flummox Zhenhua and paralyze him, for some time; it actually is sort of a bombshell, with many implications in regards to the potential challenges forward of them, in the event that they have been to begin a relationship.

I like although, that he finally involves the conclusion that he nonetheless likes Susu, it doesn’t matter what.

Isn’t that probably the most stunning factor? That he now is aware of about Susu’s deepest, darkest secret – and he’s prepared to like her anyway. 🥲

I can perceive Susu’s wrestle, the place she doesn’t really feel worthy, so I’m so glad that she manages to push previous her wrestle, to present Zhenhua an opportunity.

That scene within the restaurant, the place she provides Zhenhua one other probability to admit his emotions for her, was so cute, with him choosing up that desk centerpiece in lieu of a bouquet of roses, and ask for the prospect to use to be her boyfriend.

SHO CUTE!!! 😂🤩😍

I like that they’re courting now. 🥰🥰🥰

And I like that Susu tells Yimei in her e mail, that this was a rigorously thought-out resolution, and never one which she made as a result of she was lonely – like somebody who goes grocery buying once they’re hungry.

Aw. I’ve a superb feeling about these two; that they’ll be capable to make it for the lengthy haul, collectively. 🥰

However actually, how dorky is it, that Zhenhua insists that dumbbells are the proper birthday present for Susu, as a result of that’s how they’d met? 😂

E17-20. Zhenhua’s expectations are clearly very completely different from Susu’s, so when she places a downpayment on an house with out first discussing it with him, I can perceive that he would really feel put out, and like Susu hadn’t factored his presence into her future.

On Susu’s half, I can perceive the way it is perhaps tough for her to incorporate Zhenhua in choices and processes like these, since she’s been so impartial for therefore lengthy.

Plus, given her painful historical past, I can see why she would maintain folks at a distance. A lot as she likes Zhenhua, and has subsequently agreed up to now him, I can perceive why she would solely let him in to this point, as nicely.

Nonetheless, it was actually arduous for me to look at, as Susu went off to Shanghai on her personal, with Zhenhua again in Beijing, low-key flirting with Xiaohe and main her on, in a way of talking.

I’m relieved, although, that Zhenhua’s confused about it too, and seeks Yimei’s recommendation, who calls him out on his poor decisions, and provides him the ultimatum that he wants.

After which, as I braced myself for storms of fury, the second Susu heard the reality from Zhenhua, I used to be.. pleasantly blown away, by simply how regular and understanding Susu is, of the entire thing.

I like how she places issues in perspective and doesn’t give Zhenhua a tough time in regards to the factor with Xiaohe, and as a substitute tells him that she realizes that she doesn’t wish to break up with him.

She’s so grounded, mature and gracious, it’s arduous to not love her. ❤️

E21-24. It’s very nice to see Zhenhua be so completely happy for Susu as nicely. Seeing them rejoice  her promotion collectively so fortunately, made me smile. 🥰

It’s nice to see Zhenhua be so current and so supportive as nicely, when Susu will get the keys to the house.

He appears so genuinely completely happy to be doing the renovations for her, and it’s nice that she trusts him a lot, that she would even get to the purpose the place she left choices as much as him, although it’s technically her house.

It’s simply actually unlucky, that Zhenhua will get that bathtub fitted, when she’d stated that she didn’t need a bathtub.

It appears to be like like a petty squabble on the floor, nevertheless it’s a lot greater than that; bathtubs are clearly a trauma set off for Susu, from when she’d been sexually assaulted by her stepfather.

It’s actually too unhealthy that she didn’t inform Zhenhua this, when she’d stated that she didn’t need a bathtub, however I may perceive that this isn’t one thing that Susu needs to speak about.

The wound continues to be very painful, for her, and I can perceive that she would keep away from speaking about it as a lot as attainable, in order to not fire up horrific reminiscences, however Zhenhua, easy man that he’s, completely misses the importance of Susu’s choice.

Ouch. It was arduous to look at them fall out over this, as a result of whereas I understood Zhenhua’s confusion and harm emotions, as a result of he felt that Susu didn’t belief him and didn’t talk about the elimination of the tub with him, I felt so unhealthy for Susu, for having her wounds being dug into once more.

I’m glad that they finally make up, and I can’t assist noticing that each time they quarrel, it’s Susu who first gives the olive department.

There’s one thing very gracious about Susu that I actually admire and recognize. 😍

And, I additionally admire her for being understanding and inspiring, when Zhenhua asks for her opinion in regards to the alternative that includes Xiaohe’s father. I’m positive that not all girlfriends would have been this understanding.

E25-28. I like that Susu’s so grounded round Zhenhua.

When he’s all grumpy and appearing out as a result of he’s holding that grudge in opposition to Xiewen, she takes all of it in stride.

She doesn’t do an entire lot straight away, moreover shush him, however in a while, once they’re alone, she explains to him, one after the other, why it’s unrealistic to wish to hire a special place for Yimei to stay in, till her new dwelling is prepared, and that scary Xiewen does Yimei no good in any respect.

Reframing it for Zhenhua, to think about giving Xiewen face, for Yimei’s sake, does assist, I believe.

It’s so cute, actually, how she calls him a cussed donkey that nobody can rein in – however then within the subsequent breath calls him an inexpensive donkey who’ll hearken to recommendation as soon as he’s thought issues by means of.

I discovered this tremendous endearing, and really candy.

She sees him, in all of his bumbling flaws, and treats him with affection, even when he’s nonetheless type of being a cussed donkey. I like her. 😍

After which how candy is it, that whereas Zhenhua’s nonetheless barely out of the cussed donkey stage, she tells him that she’s purchased all these Shanghai specialties for his mother and father – and that there’s one bag that she is going to give to them personally.

Ahhh!! I’m with Zhenhua in his discombobulated shock, as a result of it is a Huge Deal.

This principally signifies that Susu’s able to be severe about their relationship; that she’s able to marry him.

Up up to now, she’s been saying that there’s no want for her to satisfy his mother and father, however now, along with her saying that she’s going to satisfy them, I’m as over the moon as Zhenhua, over this thought that she’s pondering household now. 🥲

I like that Susu’s go to to see Mother and Dad goes so nicely, and I simply wish to say, the extra I see Mother and Dad, the extra I like them.

They’re so variety and welcoming of Susu, and by no means made her really feel uncomfortable for taking so lengthy to return go to them, when she’s been courting Zhenhua for a good whereas.

It made me completely happy to listen to Susu inform Zhenhua afterwards, that she’s envious of Yimei and Zhenhua, for having such good mother and father, and I like that Zhenhua tells her that she will deal with them like her personal, and be as willful or needy round them as she’d like.

That’s actually candy, isn’t it? 🥲🥲

Even sweeter, is that, not too lengthy after this go to, Susu acknowledges that she’s not averse to the concept of beginning a household, if it’s with Zhenhua.

Awww. I’d like to see these two as mother and father. 🥰🥰

I can already see it now; Zhenhua can be the doting dad with the rollercoaster feelings, whereas Susu can be the rock of knowledge, grace and cause. 😁

I do love how understanding and dependable Zhenhua is, in the direction of Susu.

When she asks when he’ll inform his mother and father about her previous, he’s all able to defer to her, even when it means by no means telling them, ever – as a result of that is her privateness.

Awww. Such a candy cussed donkey. 😁

[END SPOILER]

Yimei and Eric [SPOILER ALERT]

Eric is Yimei’s old flame, and I’ve to admit that among the many varied lovelines that we get on this story, this was the loveline that caught my consideration probably the most.

From the preliminary hyper-awareness and refined push-pull between them which shortly began to really feel like simmering fireworks, to the passionate method they finally fall right into a relationship, it’s all fairly mesmerizing.

It’s like they’re caught up in a thick cloud of emotion, and we’re caught in that cloud together with them.

The lightning pace with which their relationship progresses would probably appear reckless to the impartial observer, nevertheless it’s clear to see that they’re each following their hearts with abandon, and there’s one thing fairly compelling about that.

In the end, it’s Eric’s unwillingness to compromise his profession ambition for the sake of their relationship, that breaks them aside.

What strikes me about this, is how each Eric and Yimei grieve the connection for an prolonged time frame.

It actually takes Yimei two full years, earlier than she feels able to delete his contact particulars; one thing which I took as an indication that she’s lastly ready to maneuver on.

And but, she nonetheless sheds tears at deleting his contact particulars, and this tells me that the emotions that she’d invested into this relationship have been actual, deep and true, even when the connection itself was risky and missing in basis, and each events have been immature and self-focused.

I’d say the identical for Eric, that he had invested actual emotions into this relationship.

I believe it says rather a lot that Eric continues to be single, two years after the breakup with Yimei, particularly since he’s recognized for being a little bit of a participant.

Sure, he’s too self-focused and career-focused to think about the potential for going again to Beijing for Yimei’s sake, however I do suppose that that doesn’t imply that his emotions for Yimei weren’t honest.

He was honest too, in his restricted, flawed method. 🥲

[END SPOILER]

Yimei and Xiewen [SPOILER ALERT]

Xiewen is the person whom Yimei marries, and I’ve to admit that I used to be by no means into this loveline, from the very starting.

He simply had “pink flag” written throughout him, from the very second he determined to courtroom Yimei.

All of the lies that he informed, so as to put himself in her orbit, have been outrageous, and I discovered it very creepy, the best way he was mendacity to Yimei in such a scientific method. 🙈

The factor that basically touched Yimei, I believe, is the truth that he would flip down a job supply in one other province, as a result of he wished to be along with her.

This was the other of Eric, who couldn’t deliver himself to derail his profession in any method, for the sake of their relationship.

Mainly, the important thing issues that Eric had been unable to do for her, Xiewen demonstrates that he’s keen to do for her, and I might see how that might be very persuasive, to Yimei.

Sadly, Xiewen’s insecurity when evaluating himself to Eric eats into their relationship in an enormous method, and it’s tragic and horrible, how he finally begins to deal with Yimei like a caged hen, notably as soon as she will get pregnant.

Insisting that Yimei keep within the hospital to relaxation, after which insisting that she take day off work, is one factor.

Submitting her resignation for her with out her data is an entire different degree of controlling habits, and I used to be flabbergasted that he would do this – after which act all self-righteous about it, and even play the maligned sufferer, in entrance of her mother and father.

He retains claiming that it was all to guard her well being, however on a extra insidious degree, it actually seems like he’s taking the prospect to place her in a cage, in order that he can management her and monitor her as he pleases.

His total strategy is to behave first and justify later, and I consider that that is all as a result of he doesn’t wish to danger Yimei disagreeing with any of his choices.

To go together with the entire package deal, is Xiewen’s new factor, the place he principally gaslights Yimei each time she tries to protest about any of his choices.

Like the best way he tells her that her hormones are making her emotionally unstable, when she will get indignant with him for quitting her job for her. UGH. That made me so mad. 😤

It actually annoys me to see Xiewen systematically deny Yimei the issues that she needs, whether or not it’s to have Mother come stick with them for some time, or her going again to Beijing for some time.

Sure, it’s true that Xiewen fears that he’ll lose her, if he lets her go to Beijing with out him.

However I’m sure that it’s additionally true that he doesn’t belief her, as a consequence of his personal insecurity, and that’s why he can’t stand the considered her being in a special place, with out supervision.

I used to be actually shocked and impressed at how lengthy Yimei stayed on this marriage, given how controlling Xiewen was.

I might hardly consider that Xiewen didn’t simply give up that job for her, but additionally turned down a job supply for her, when she’d been eager to return to work, after some years had handed.

I used to be so relieved when Yimei lastly requested for a divorce, after which I used to be so impressed with Yimei, for treating Xiewen with gentleness and style, after every part that he’d accomplished.

[END SPOILER]

Yimei and Jiaming [SPOILER ALERT]

Jiaming is Yimei’s soulmate, and like I discussed earlier, I favored this in idea far more than in execution.

It additionally didn’t sit tremendous nicely with me that Yimei falls so arduous and quick for Jiaming, not lengthy after popping out of an sad marriage.

After being in such an sad scenario with Xiewen, who’d appeared tremendous good to begin with, I’d anticipated Yimei to be slightly extra cautious along with her emotions, particularly this quickly after the divorce.

I believe the concept right here, is that if you meet The One, you simply know, and nothing else issues, or no less than, that’s how I attempted to rationalize it. 😅

Sadly, issues turn out to be very unhappy very quick, in Yimei and Jiaming’s relationship, and understandably so, as soon as they be taught that Jiaming has very restricted time to stay, because of his coronary heart situation.

However.. can I danger sounding like a heartless monster, and say that I truly desire this a part of their story, than when Present was making an attempt so arduous to show that Jiaming was Yimei’s soulmate? 🙈😅

On this house, that try-hard effort isn’t any extra, and we’re specializing in Jiaming’s decisions round how he wish to stay his final days, and Yimei’s very emotional expertise of struggling along with her grief, whereas eager to do her finest to assist him, in order that he doesn’t die with any regrets.

It’s a really actual and poignant dilemma, with Jiaming wanting Yimei to look forward and overlook about him, saying that she has heaps extra life to stay, and can love once more, and perhaps even marry once more, and Yimei decidedly not within the thoughts or coronary heart house to consider issues like that.

From the second that Yimei decides to assist Jiaming fulfill his life’s want of mountaineering up a mountain, I knew in my intestine that he would probably die on high of that mountain – in a drama, that’s virtually the one method this might go, sure?

It was candy that Jiaming acquired to have that tenting expertise too, with Jiamin and his spouse getting ready the mini campsite with tents and meals and a campfire, in order that Jiaming and Yimei might break up their ascent into two days.

And, I’m glad that although Jiamin acquired all labored up at Jiaming’s announcement that he’d signed as much as be an organ donor, that they’ve a make up second, earlier than Jiaming goes again to his hike – as a result of that basically does turn into the final time the brothers see one another.

I actually didn’t like that, after it begins to rain, Yimei begins to have a meltdown about not fulfilling her promise to Jiaming, they usually truly half methods on the mountain.

My mind was all, “Okay, he’s going to die, coz he’s solely acquired remedy with him, however all the opposite provides are with Yimei.” 😬

Truthfully, I used to be not feeling too kindly in the direction of Yimei, who decides to proceed along with her ascent, although it appears to be like like Jiaming had headed down the mountain. In my head, I used to be like, “Are you making an attempt to kill him??” 😱

However after all, in true drama vogue, when she will get to the height, it isn’t lengthy earlier than Jiaming reveals up, trying very a lot the more severe for put on, they usually reunite tearfully on the peak, earlier than sitting down to look at the sundown collectively.

..Which is when it’s closely implied that Jiaming then breathes his final, whereas leaning on Yimei’s shoulder.

It’s all very poignant and unhappy, and although I haven’t been the most important fan of this arc, I did really feel the pathos in all of this.

I do suppose that it’s vital that we see Yimei mourning and processing, by way of expressing herself by means of paint, which is one thing that we’d final seen her do, when issues had gone south with Eric.

On this method, it does really feel like Yimei has type of come again to her core self, by way of this relationship with Jiaming.

And, it is usually fairly significant, to see that she’s taken on traits that honor Jiaming’s reminiscence, like the best way she’s now a biker woman, driving Jiaming’s bike round, identical to he had accomplished. 🥲

[END SPOILER]

THOUGHTS ON THE ENDING [SPOILERS]

E37-38. Truthfully, I’d dragged my ft slightly, coming to this finale, not for another cause, however that I’d felt fairly fatigued by the point we put the third loveline to relaxation.

After which, when Present launched He Xi (Lin Yi) as Yimei’s flight teacher, and low-key hinted that he would turn out to be Yimei’s subsequent love curiosity, I felt even extra fatigued on the considered it, and promptly took a while to assemble sufficient fortitude and curiosity to get to the end line.

In the long run, although, I needn’t have fearful, heh.

As a result of, in the long run, Present makes use of He Xi’s character in another way than I’d anticipated; he doesn’t fairly turn out to be Yimei’s love curiosity, although we are able to see that there’s an appreciation there that’s mutual, and a connection that feels real.

I truly like how this unfolded, far more than the model that I’d had in my head, once I’d taken that brief break from this present. 😅

Primarily, I like that Yimei and He Xi join in a method that feels pure, and develop to get to know one another, in the midst of their conversations.

It feels natural to me, that they might every open up little by little, as they’d these conversations, and I like how Yimei is gracious and beneficiant, but additionally respectful, in the best way she gives life recommendation to He Xi, who’s 16 years youthful than her, at age 24.

I discovered it plausible, that it’s solely as they get to know one another higher, that this mutual respect and appreciation grows. And actually, it’s fairly good to see them get pleasure from little issues like texting a little bit of banter backwards and forwards, or a little bit of ribbing, when Yimei is available in for her flight classes.

In fact, belief ex-husband Xiewen to be all suspicious and jealous, although he has no proper to be, and begin to ask Yimei about whether or not she and He Xi are courting.

I recognize the perform this plot level serves in our story although, which is for Yimei to state (along with her signature calm and style) that she appreciates He Xi’s qualities, however that He Xi hasn’t expressed how he feels, and so she doesn’t know if he likes her, but when and when love occurs and she or he decides up to now somebody, it’s all good – and can have nothing to do with Xiewen.

Like I stated, she’s mild about it, however I simply love the truth that she manages to be mild but agency, in reminding Xiewen of his place.

It doesn’t shock me that Xiewen tries for a reconciliation with Yimei, and it doesn’t shock me that Yimei says no.

What I like about it’s, that they’ve come to a spot the place they’re in a position to co-exist as co-parents to Taichu, and be cordial to one another, and have these sorts of conversations, with out the emotional baggage that had beforehand weighed them down.

As for He Xi, I like that Yimei encourages him to go after his flying goals, after which, as he begins to say, on the airport, that he’d prefer to be along with her after he comes again in a yr, she tells him to not promise the long run.

I do just like the present that he provides her although; that metal rose that he’d made out of spare elements, is a good illustration of Yimei herself.

She’s picked up the damaged items of her life, and made herself stronger, thus changing into a metal rose within the course of. It’s fairly excellent, in that, it’s not fairly, nevertheless it’s significant. 🥲

I just like the open-ended method by which we finish our story, the place it stays to be seen whether or not He Xi and Yimei are supposed to have a love story sooner or later.

It feels enough and fairly pitch excellent to know that they’re every flying the place they should fly, on this second, and trusting within the course of, that what must be, will probably be, in the long run.

Within the meantime, I do actually like Yimei’s last voiceover, as we watch her experience her motorcycle into the scenic mountains, which is an excerpt from “Music of the Open Highway” by Walt Whitman:

“Afoot and lighthearted I take to the open highway. Wholesome, free, the world earlier than me. The lengthy brown path earlier than me main wherever I select.

Henceforth, I ask not luck, I actually am luck. No matter I shall meet on the highway I shall like. None however are accepted.

From this hour, I ordain myself loos’d of limits and imaginary strains. Going the place I record, my very own grasp, complete and absolute.”

An aptly empowering and liberating notice on which to ship Yimei off on the rest of her journey.

We don’t know what that journey will deliver her, however we are able to relaxation assured that no matter life brings her method, she is going to meet it with power and coronary heart, and stay it to the fullest. 🥲

THE FINAL VERDICT:

Very stable, a number of missteps however.

FINAL GRADE: B++

TRAILER:

MV:

PATREON UPDATE!

The following drama I’m masking on Patreon, instead of  The Story of Rose, is Love Subsequent Door [Korea].

You may take a look at my episode 1-2 notes on Love Subsequent Door on Patreon right here.

Right here’s an outline of what I’m masking on Patreon proper now (Tier advantages are cumulative)!

Basis Tier (US$1): Leisure Drop (Sundays) + the primary set notes of all reveals coated on Patreon (that’s 2 episodes for kdramas and 4 episodes for cdramas)

Early Entry (US$5): +Serendipity’s Embrace [Korea]

Early Entry Plus (US$10): +Love Subsequent Door [Korea]

VIP (US$15): +Your Honor [Korea]

Associated