The BEST Chinese Dramas from 2015 -2020 - My 3 Gold Mine Dramas

[@AvenueX123]

Like a Flowing River 1&2 are also close enough to 3 gd, but for some weird reason I didn't manage to stick through either of them, kind of dropped out close to the end, so I don't think it's fair for me to give them a solid 3 gd~

[@emc7230]

Hey there! Loved Nirvana in Fire too. One of my all time favourite. I loved your actor series. Got to watch the gem The Disguiser because of it. Please add more actors to that series, because I get to know of so many classic dramas. As a newbie I only know about new ones (dramas/actors), so your actor series really helped me find the real gems which I wouldn't be able to find as there's so much new stuff to watch. Classics are hard to find. Thanks. 😄

[@moderatecanuck]

Where can we see the second subbed? Viki doesn't have it

[@lilahkane2815]

I don’t know if you watch Korean dramas. I usually didn’t, but then I found out about Beyond Evil. (It doesn’t fit to everyone) It was pretty glorius for me. That leads me to find out about the Devil Judge that will have 16 episodes in total (aired 4 already) and just WOW… I have already warched the 4 episodes 5 times and it is torture to wait for more.

[@linadecrava895]

@@lilahkane2815 watch Law School if you love Law drama. It's less dramatic and more realistic than The Devil Judge, but it's so good. It's just finished airing and also have 16 episodes

[@f_cyclameneleanor]

Using your rating, for me the 1st one deserves 3 gold but the 2nd I will put in 2 gold. Hope for the 3rd one is 3 gold again. Really hope they can give the finale with a bang quality🤞🤞

[@barbiekeerth]

Maybe u can do another video like this with category of personal re-watch value. That would be fun and you don't have to adhere with star rating because it's your personal heavily subjective taste. You can even say what aspect made it so re-watchable, be it cp, comedy or anything.

[@jenniferariesta6635]

Great cp can sustain a mediocre drama.. that’s so true

[@MicaMartins]

I loved this idea

[@IlloyedKater]

I would really like this. Please AvenueX do that ^^

[@sg-te9pu]

Yess a great idea!

[@IlloyedKater]

@@sg-te9pu i agree

[@eveslyra4889]

i totally get what you mean when you say that to you, your 3-gold mine drama's don't have as much as a rewatch value as lower rated drama's. it's the same for me. personally, the drama's that i have rated so highly truly fascinated me plot wise and kept me on my toes - i was not bored when watching them AT ALL. but the things that surprised you the first time you watched a drama is something you know is going to happen the second time through. the excitement isn't the same, the tension isn't the same - and you don't want to ruin the memory you have or the experience you had by rewatching it and not having the same reaction. it's better to leave the experience untouched. well, that's how it is for me at least.

[@snigdhakhadka5867]

I agree and relate to it so much. It’s like you want to preserve the precious first impression.

[@winniechen4311]

Took the words out of my mouth. Joy of Life is basically how I feel. Would rate it 11/10 but I couldn't rewatch it

[@julesverneinoz]

Hum, I would thought it depends on the genre but I see Joy of Life in the comment, that's interesting. I put JoF in wuxia sci-fi comedy. I know with mystery genre, they definitely have low rewatch value since the second time around you are basically 'spoiled'. Some works, usually sci-fi genre where the writers put quite a number of hints in the plot, generally have a higher rewatch value as the second rewatch you see the plot unfolds with a different lens. Some fast-paced action movies as well can also be different in the second viewing as you are less focused on the main characters' plot and look at the overall world's story or things you missed before (the later Marvel Avengers movie, for me--waay too much stuff going on on-screen). Generally comedy with good line deliveries also have a high rewatch value because plot becomes immaterial, as you're rewatching the work for certain scenes (eg. old Die Hard movies). I definitely watched NiF 1 multiple times :P

[@maimee2angel]

I got you. I rewatch My Girlfriend is Alien several times. I realize the drama is not great whatsoever but I love it so much I still enjoy rewatch

[@dantheman3022]

Its NOT '3 gold mine' if you dont want to rewatch it !!!!! You probably though highly of it because you were biased by a certain actor/actress or plot. It just means you are scared you will find its mediocre and shallow when you rewatch and look at the bigger picture minus your 'Bias' !!!!

[@bubblegumae4522]

Joy of life got my whole family waiting to watch together. Still waiting for the part 2. I hope they will have same casts

[@stanleyho8009]

Waiting for Xiao Zhan tbh

[@noellamonyuy26]

I can’t wait for it, it’s one of the only dramas that I actually rewatched

[@sephorapaulazammit4925]

@@stanleyho8009 unfortunately xiao zhan might have be replaced 😭 but I hope it's not ture let's pray

[@bubblegumae4522]

Let's all hope for the same actors. But i hope they will never change the main character or else I'm out hahahha

[@kalpesh_p]

You're not alone. We all are waiting for season 2

[@majesty1144]

Nirvana in fire deserves an academy award. The intelligence of that drama is on another level.

[@seorangmusafirjalanan5690]

True. I just finished watch it. Their intelligence in strategy was really MIND BLOWING. It just I’m just sad that Mei Chang us died in the end. But it’s a good ending actually. It just my soft baby heart can’t handle the sadness. 😂

[@viviant4086]

Academy awards are for films...not dramas.

[@siobhanobrien3990]

Nirvana in Fire ruined Cdramas for me for a long time, everything felt poor by comparison. I also had to build up to watching it, I first tried watching it when I was new to Cdramas and too much went over my head, glad I came back years later when I could understand it more fully.

[@yovitasanusi]

Nirvana in Fire is the greatest Cdrama masterpiece I ever watched and I can watch it over and over again even only for the beautiful sets (I really like Mei Changsu's house) like I rewatch The Untamed and Word of Honor for the romance, but I can watch NIF1 just for any reason... the best Cdrama for me so far.. really

[@redellieeldorado]

So, did she give The Untamed a 3 gold mine or not? Its kinda confusing cuz after saying abt TU & longest Chang an thingy, she said she gave 3 gold mines to 3 dramas from 2019, 1st one being Joy of Life in 5:25....i m kinda confused 🤔

[@marilou3473]

@@redellieeldorado she didn’t

[@redellieeldorado]

@@marilou3473 but she gave 3 gold mine to Guardian??

[@linadecrava895]

@@redellieeldorado nope, she just mention Guardian as a special drama for her, but didn't gave it 3 gold mines

[@swo2376]

Pretty much have to second all of this.

[@caridadchang7895]

Yeah dramas like the Untamed have had as discussion that they have a lot of plot Holes, but you get so into the characters that it honestly Doesn't matter. I guess that entertainment and perfection don't always go hand in hand.

[@suzy8254]

TOTALLY AGREE

[@redellieeldorado]

So, did she give The Untamed a 3 gold mine or not? Its kinda confusing cuz after saying abt TU & longest Chang an thingy, she said she gave 3 gold mines to 3 dramas from 2019, 1st one being Joy of Life in 5:25....i m kinda confused 🤔

[@bichen-up-ur]

I don't see that many/any plot hole tbh.

[@IlloyedKater]

@@redellieeldorado She did not Give the Untamed a 3 Gold mine rating. She just mentioned the drama to guide us along where we are in drama history and pointed out how the drama had a lasting effect. But no 3 gold mine rating

[@swo2376]

In my eyes, very few shows, like Nirvana in Fire, can marry entertainment and perfection (or as close as we can get, NIF isn't perfect)

[@Lucklucky8]

My most favorite CDrama until 2021 1. Nirvana in Fire 2. Joy of Life 3. The Untamed 4. Word of Honor 5. Ten Miles of Peach Blossom 6. Ashes of Love 7. Love and Redemption 8. Go Ahead 9. Hikaru no Go 10. Before We Get Married

[@millennialx9044]

Thnx 4 sharing I wish others would too it's so hard to excavate the mountain of C dramas to find good ones

[@jinniwind]

oh, thanks for mentioning Hikaru no Go. almost forgot about this one. and YES, it's a 3 gold mine in my opinion.

[@ririnlestari7022]

Is Hikaru good? Watched the others but not into Ashes and Love&Redemption

[@annmariebusu9924]

I have seen 5 and 6 twice so I know you have good taste 😊. Hopefully the others are on Netflix. Currently watching love between fairy and devil.

[@BJBee]

Fantastic list.

[@suzynuam8185]

The untamed is a masterpiece and my favorite Drama in the world ❤️ my words will not be enough to describe how much I love this drama.

[@nykihanis9825]

Plot holes

[@ShinChan-cu8ns]

Me 2...😍😭

[@ShinChan-cu8ns]

@@nykihanis9825 yeah there r in the drama.. but after I read novel it became preety clear.. The Untamed is on another level fr me... I hv watched anime main drama, Audio drama nd hv read novel.. nd still can't get enough of it....

[@ThatBlackPiano]

Guardian brought me to The Untamed which then brought me to Word of Honor which THEN brought me to Healer and Killer! These dramas are ALL so amazing!

[@mban2748]

I'm a westerner. Being new to Chinese dramas, I greatly value your opinion. You were so right about Nirvana in Fire, 1 & 2. Thank you for helping me discover more about your culture.

[@tashyka3363]

The Untamed is easily one of the greatest stories I've experienced in the history of television. I can't quite explain the perfection that is this drama, it was a perfect balance of emotions, story telling and casting perfection. It's a drama I've banked alongside dramas like Lord of the Rings as well as Game of Thrones and the untamed likely has an advantage due to the great love story. Nirvana in Fire certainly amazing too, amazing and probably the most intelligence and attention to detailed drama, and also reminded me of Game of thrones. I can think of so many amazing dramas too as you say that have remained special like Eternal love (TMOPB) etc, but there is something inexplainable about The Untamed that is truly a rare special experience.

[@Vladimirputin11111]

The untamed It is one of the most overrated dramas of all time....It was definitely good but one of the greatest?? 😄 what a joke It is rated highly due to LGBTQ community... Nirvana in fire + joy of like can't be in the same category....

[@seorangmusafirjalanan5690]

@@Vladimirputin11111 i wanna ask, is the untamed really bromance drama? Like… is there really scene where guys kiss? Cause I wanna think first before watch it. 😊

[@estuda-sek3148]

@@seorangmusafirjalanan5690 Sorry, I wasn't the one adressed, but I can answer your questions. There's no kiss scene, it's not really bromance. Although they treat each other as companions, it is a romance, just very downplayed ("subtle" or basically, if you look into it).

[@ShinChan-cu8ns]

@@Vladimirputin11111 high rated?? Lol Maybe fr u.. Go nd read novel Md u will understand the deeper meaning hidden in that drama... The Untamed was nd is my fav Chinese drama so far...😌

[@tashyka3363]

@@seorangmusafirjalanan5690 At face value it's a story about friendship because Bromances are banned in Chinese entertainment. The book is an outright bromance. Regarding kissed- lol If you've watched enough Asian television you'll know a kiss is not the standard for love stories. You could watch 60 episodes and get to witness a perk on the cheek if luck :D

[@mariejost9699]

The Rise of Phoenixes is one of my favorites. I’m watching it for the third time right now and focusing on the scenes with Chen Kun and Ni Ni individually, and Chen Kun and Ni Ni together. The quality of the script and acting is very good, and the production values are cinema quality. This one is a gem, not perfect, but it mostly avoids the tired tropes of costume dramas and has some characters and performances for the ages.

[@Cri123cket]

I agree! The ending was disappointing, but there were so many great things about this drama. The acting overall was superb, considering watching it again.

[@mk-ii4jy]

I wish they kept the novel's ending but otherwise it was SO GOOD

[@zamanjengcobo2292]

My absolute favorite. I was bawling my eyes out😭😭.

[@anotheryoutubeuser]

I would have put RoP in the 3 gold mine category if the last 15 or so episodes didn't completely wet the bed. So many characters started doing stupid stuff just for the sake of plot contrivance that it left a really bad taste in my mouth. Still, I would say it is a lot better than many popular C-Dramas

[@scarletlin3608]

@@anotheryoutubeuser Totally agree. The beginning and middle of the series is possibly one of the best I have ever watched, acting, story, cinematography, sets, costumes everything. I was even taking my time and watching sparingly because it was so good I didn't want it to end. And then towards the end I don't know what happened, it lost its direction and I was just staring at the screen not even recognising the series. It was even more disappointing because it was on the way to becoming my favourite asian drama! I couldn't even finish it because of that.

[@crazyformusic1012]

I watched "Nirvana In Fire" because you suggested it, and I must thank you it was one of the best things I ever watched and a drama that's close to heart.

[@linadecrava895]

Even before watching this video and just read the title only, i know Nirvana in Fire is one of them. My top three : Nirvana in fire, Nirvana in fire 2, and Joy of Life. I still rewatch those 3 dramas from time to time.

[@self-taughtlanguages]

Me too i just happen to find joy of love last few weeks ago and i watch it nonstop... now waiting for ss2

[@linadecrava895]

@@self-taughtlanguages it will be a very long wait 😅

[@Zzz-im3dt]

i still hold myself from watch joy of life because i want to wait for s2😂

[@self-taughtlanguages]

@@linadecrava895 isnt they already start filming? Maybe next year will air

[@linadecrava895]

@@self-taughtlanguages no, they haven't start shooting, it's should be this year, maybe at the end of the year

[@funnypeopleswim]

For me rewatch value plays a big part. But some series are too painful or emotional to be rewatched so that even though they are excellent high quality dramas, they are emotionally too painful to watch again.

[@swo2376]

Yeah also they're just. so. long.

[@snr9365]

Re: your point on rewatch value, I totally agree. Sometimes something is "perfect" and you want to keep it just as it is in your memory of that first viewing. If the plot is in any way a mystery or thriller, I also think rewatching isn't as fun because you know the intricate twists and turns of the plot. Have you ever heard the term "hangout movie" or "hangout show"? It means a movie/show that, while maybe not perfect, you can watch again and again because it feels like you get to "hangout" in that world or with those characters again. For me, that's what makes something have high rewatch value.

[@fengzhengtou1990]

First time hear the term “hangout” show, Nice! I think my hangout show this year is Word of Honor as I really enjoy hanging out with the characters in the JiangHu world and rewatched it several times since it aired.

[@snr9365]

@@fengzhengtou1990 Agree! Word of Honor is definitely a "hangout" show. The two leads are SO fun together and it is very rewatchable.

[@tammitan9004]

Exactly why I can't rewatch Nirvana in Fire. It's so perfect in my mind.

[@swo2376]

"hangout show" great word! For me, most cdramas don't have that quality bc they're so long and I keep watching ones involving tragedy and politics and Saving The Dynasty, which isnt light content. That said, I do like to put Love in Between on in the background sometimes. It's probably bc it has an amazing soundtrack too...

[@risariesa2283]

Oh yeah, Nirvana in Fire!!! still my fav C-drama!!!

[@itsnlee]

I keep seeing Nirvana in Fire being mentioned everywhere. Will add it to my list!

[@nthapa2640]

Yes watch in viki. It was mind blowing. I finished watching it last week. Best drama of decade 2010 to 2020

[@n.aira97]

I already added to my playlist, but never watch it yet. Huhu

[@jenniferariesta6635]

Also available with eng subtitle here in KZbin #currentlywatching

[@ccagle449]

This is the best Chinese series in my opinion and I have watched a lot of them. The character Mei Changsu is really good. Hope you enjoy it too.

[@minyoung823]

It is a Chinese drama that respected the intelligence of its viewers. I could not say the "only" bec I have not seen others especially those in Japan era China.

[@paperheart7149]

I really loved "Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace" (2018 drama) as well. That was one of the sad drama I watched, literally cried so many times. Loved hoe Ruyi's character was portrayed so so damn well by the FL

[@valentinesuwanda7907]

Nirvana in Fire was the bomb!! I haven't seen Nirvana in Fire 2, but after your video, I think Imma see it, thank you

[@elen1112ep]

I already watched the first i will try to watch season 2. AvenueX said she can smell her tears. I may have to stock on tissues :)

[@askdennis5426]

Give it a chance! NIF2 is also really good!

[@jenniferariesta6635]

@@askdennis5426 seconded! I daresay I love it more than the original

[@jasvlogs1023]

@@jenniferariesta6635 me, too. NIF 2 way better. But I can't let go of season 1 so I love them both.

[@perry6660]

For some reason, Winter Begonia always has a place in my heart, I watch a lot of C-dramas, yet I feel like none of them have what I’ve been craving for since I last watch Winter Begonia, I like their cinematography, their representation of Early 20th century China, I love their acting and I love how they combine those things into a single series.

[@juneseghni]

Fantastic series-great relationship between the two male leads and all around goodness.

[@velvetp5754]

If ya’ll haven’t seen Joy of Life, you’re missing out on one of the most finest well-written Chinese dramas to ever grace this earth just as AvenueX is saying. I still can’t get over how funny & witty the well-developed plot lines were. 😩 Hands down one of the best of the bests.

[@iampigoinkoink5185]

I have dropped it so many times already but now I am thinking about watching it

[@velvetp5754]

@@iampigoinkoink5185 I dropped it twice before I decided to push through and finish it. Lol. I’m so glad I did. Hopefully you do too!

[@bapyongukgukguk2352]

An intellectual. You almost dropped a masterpiece

[@evannasong8356]

I usually don’t watch modern day tv dramas. I find them so boring but I saw that the hua fei actress was in this.

[@celinawang3428]

HARD AGREE!! Joy of Life was such a pleasant surprise and has become one of my most favorite dramas. It's truly a masterpiece alongside Nirvana of Fire.

[@teddymine2161]

I started watching you since 2019, I accidentally stumbled upon your rant video about The Legend of White Snake (2019), and onwards, your reviews become my standard when watching c-dramas. I remember you still had about less than 10K subscribers when I subscribed. I'm glad to see your channel growing.

[@dawnoheee9524]

I watched that rant too. I subscribe to this channel after watching that video.

[@celinawang3428]

Joy of Life was such a pleasant surprise and has become one of my most favorite drama to date. It's actually crazy good, super well paced, top-tier acting and narrative. It's truly a masterpiece alongside Nirvana of Fire.

[@HS-qq6kr]

I can’t believe it is almost 6 years from nirvana in fire. Still the best

[@hannaariel3604]

For me Nirvana in Fire is still the best Cdrama and rewachable too coz when i bored n dont hv anything to watch i always back to watch NiF, and the funny thing is till now i haven't watch Nif2 while my friend really love NiF2 rather than NiF 😀.

[@desyzakia1051]

Nirvana in fire is the one that make me enter and roam around in Chinese drama land. And it becomes my 'standard' when watching another drama. Unfortunately it's looks like the standard is too high and that make me hard to enjoy another drama. 😂 Instead of 'this drama is good', the feeling that i always get is 'this is not as good as nirvana in fire' or 'this is so stupid so far from nirvana in fire'. So even though I'm interested in the synopsis of a drama and the review is good, i always get sceptical to watch it, coz i don't know if this is really good or just another stupid story. So i find your channel very helpful to me so that i can start watching good drama with confidence. 😁 And i really thankful to you 😊😊

[@linadecrava895]

I think the biggest problem with C-drama is too many filler episodes. Their series has too many episodes, while some can be justified and the writing is good, many just dragging the story and some even get worse to the end.

[@ELP1017]

Mood.

[@harunotodoroki]

Same here. NIF is the only Cdrama I watched right through without skipping. After that I either skipped episodes/scenes or abandoned midway

[@swo2376]

Haha, it's true, everytime i watch a show I just compare it to nirvana in fire. Im watching the long ballad now and everything in my head is just NIF NIF NIF NIF

[@ruuyin6586]

Just hearing ‘The Long Night’ brings tears to my eyes...I may never recover from that drama. And ‘Guardian’....I just have to go fangirl over moments I’ve missed.

[@zilliastar9116]

the long night had me cry as a baby,i can't rewatch it never! ahahah

[@Xia-hu]

a lot of the times I was annoyed at Guardian and skipped scenes with the minor characters. But other times I was like furiously yelling at the screen: "Kiss him already, dang it!" The chemistry was so good bw the male leads, that kept me watching.

[@hollywooddarling]

I consider Nirvana in Fire a 3 goldmine drama but I find it very rewatchable too! It is the ultimate exception! And I actually can rewatch The Bad Kids too haha.

[@ELP1017]

NIF is a rare drama that somehow gets exponentially better with each rewatch because you notice more and more details! It's so meticulously plotted and produced!

[@nhaan4178]

I like NIF a lot, from the plot to the acting and film set.

[@LindaTran88]

The Bad Kids definitely needs to watched more than once!

[@xinn_mh]

@@ELP1017 yes! It's so good for rewatch

[@Nymeria0]

Totally agree with your review of Nirvana Fires 1 and 2. Both were such well written and totally re-watch on an annual basis if not more. The 2nd one I don't dare to re-watch as frequent, but I do. I just fear of the amount of emotional drain and sadness from the story. However, I am really surprised the Story of Ming Lang didn't make the 3 gold mines on your chart.

[@ginnylin]

Doing such an important (review) public service for us drama fans :) Edit: I think you are onto something there. Most of my favourite movies and TV shows I haven't ever rewatched in their entirety except for a few key scenes coz I (maybe) don't want to mess up the memory of that initial rush of positive emotions I felt watching it? Sometimes when u rewatch, u can nitpick and see things u didn't see before.

[@purpleforever491]

The bad kids is so good. I'm sad coz that drama is underrated. The acting, the story, the direction everything was top notch. Would highly recommend if you like thriller/dark kind of dramas 🔥

[@riajen2176]

hmm, maybe for international audience, underrated, yes, but it was a huge hit in china last year

[@purpleforever491]

@@riajen2176 happy to hear that.. and yes, would love if it gets more recognition globally

[@aishamuftau2441]

The bad kids are not underrated it is one of 2020 most viewed and highest rated in china but International viewers but underrated is not near the bad kids

[@morithohirbima9299]

I really like nirvana in fire series and still rewatching. I watching this series because of your review. 👍👍

[@uncommonreed]

For me Winter Begonia became one my favorite shows of any country joining the likes of Deadwood and The Mandalorian.

[@TheIrishAnge]

Winter Begonia was definitely a gem, both lead actors did an amazing job...

[@melissapalmer8411]

I loved that drama, too, and cried a lot! The opening OST is so beautiful. It was originally a BL story from what I heard, but they gave Xiaoming a wife in the drama. I also learned A LOT about Chinese Opera and love it more now.

[@TheSimbulUK]

Yay for Joy of Life! That show is what really made me delve deep into Chinese television and I loved it (I even enjoyed the costumes anc styling lol). Will have to check the other 3 gold mine dramas in your list 😊

[@minyoung823]

SOUND OF THE DESERT - this is one old chinese drama, 2014, that I love by Hu Ge as well. After all these years I still remember it. It left such an impression on me. Edit: Snow Sword Stride (2021) is about to be a classic cdrama also but needed a second season just like Joy of Life. Hopefully the production company of both dramas will give proper endings to these 2 dramas.

[@lorrainepaul5928]

I loved Sound of the Desert. I also recall scenes from it and feel uplifted!

[@ALMyoutube]

I'd lie if I say I wasn't anxiously waiting for you to mention Guardian when referring to 2018 dramas. I'm never getting over Guardian 💖

[@elen1112ep]

hahaha! totally agree! I was holding my breath then I smiled when I heard "Guardian". Thank you AvenueX for this gold mine review :)

[@marsh2741]

Gotta admit the ending made me cry a bit

[@elen1112ep]

They will meet again. They have the same clothes as in ep 1 :)

[@zee3e]

she literally has guardian edits in her channels haha!!! even my mom just recently finished guardian

[@yerisbestie7815]

Totally agree about Someday or One Day. Started of a bit slow but really started to build up and kept me on the edge of my seat with its plot twists and complex story. Ended up absolutely shattering my heart and I still get this melancholic feeling whenever I think about that drama.

[@agatonfamily5471]

My fave 're-watch' drama is Story of Minglan. Sometimes when I watch a drama with disappointing ending, I'll find myself rewatching Minglan. :-}

[@sagarikauday3569]

If you like minglan you'd also really like court lady

[@that-one-exolblink2439]

Me too! I almost left at the beginning because it was slow but I enjoyed the slow burn at the end. I wish it were 100 episodes. I watched everything in 3 days, did not sleep

[@jaetine9006]

Yup, Story of Minglan as high rewatch value for me. I think the first episode of the drama is one of the best most skillfully executed intros to a drama. Sometimes I just watch that episode for how delightful and well done it is.

[@aaastooges]

Same. Its quite light hearted and humorous. Even the sad parts arent too depressing

[@kelseyn5459]

Yup. Nirvana in Fire and Story of Minglan are stories I keep coming back to. Love it!

[@arraychee]

I was waiting for you list! Thanks for explaining your process. I also picked Nirvana In Fire and Joy of Life. For me, I can only distance myself after asking “Yes, it’s brilliant, but would I watch it again?” That’s when I know how much I appreciate the production value. (Then I’ll go check online to see how the fans view it to expand my viewpoint.) Thanks again.

[@EileenLR]

There are many dramas I enjoy (TMOPB, WoH, etc) but these dramas are the ones I keep rewatching: NiF1, NiF2, Love and Destiny, Story of Minglan, and JoL. I totally agree with your points about NiF2! Would love to see a video of dramas you rewatch the most!

[@pengdubit]

I love story of minglan such a good drama .yes some parts was not necessary but I can forgive..i rewatch all the time

[@christineyong4418]

Thank you for all your reviews and videos, much appreciated. I discovered Chinese dramas on Netflix during lockdown in 2020 and subsequently your channel. You assist many with limited time in narrowing the vast choices, and I believe a lot of people will agree with me. I totally agree with you regarding NIF 1&2. There are many ultra popular ones like The Untamed, Joy of Life etc but these 2 remain my absolute favourites of all times. Once again, thank you. Wishing you all the best, may you be healthy and happy always.

[@abbymelcoffee1813]

The only drama I completed in the last 3 years -- The Untamed.

[@sg-te9pu]

😂 We're always coming back to it don't we

[@felixfelix1482]

True

[@noryati2139]

Me too... 👍

[@carlalin3263]

watched it four times

[@eraace9138]

You won't believe it.... But I'm watching it right now. The edited version. 😌😌😌

[@dream.Allsummer]

I think my “holy grail” dramas like NiF (or for me cross fire too) are just such an emotional watching experience that I can’t re-watch them as often as some other dramas. Because I am the type to always get so emotionally invested in truly good stories!

[@evaxu2830]

me rewatching NiF 3 times and crying each time at different details I noticed 😆😩

[@annathebell2518]

@@evaxu2830 I need to know the NIF fans 😭😭 every time I rewatch it I find myself discovering different details

[@swo2376]

I can't rewatch NIF and I can't NOT rewatch NIF. I rewatched Jan this year and resisting the urge to go again. One time I decided to just rewatch the last two episodes. Bad idea. Emotional wreck. This show hurts me so much.

[@annathebell2518]

@@swo2376 oh wow. I'm not as emotional as u.. I don't cry during movies. Ive rewatched it 5 times and I plan to continue rewatching it. Plan to watch it on the Dec holiday

[@swo2376]

@@annathebell2518 Honestly I usually don't cry that much, it's just this show specifically...

[@AP-uy5ni]

I would add Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace as a 3 goldmine drama. It's so close to being perfect and has so few flaws (no drama is 100% perfect). It left a lasting impression (and emotional scar) on me. It's hands down one of the best dramas I've ever watched. Hard to rewatch because it's so heartbreaking, but it's so well done on every level. Another drama that's criminally underrated is My Girlfriend's Boyfriend from 2017 (I guess it flew under the radar being BL before Guardian and Untamed). It's so close to perfection and the rewatch value is really high. It's not an epic romance, but good comedy I think is even harder to do well than the high budget dramas. If you take it for what it is (comedy with a BL tinge, but more interested in exploring the concept of love in an atypical context), it's just so good in terms of writing, cinematography (unique visual style despite being low-budget), acting, and storyline. The Day of Becoming You - if the ending holds up (have yet to watch the last 2 episodes), it will be a 3 goldmine drama. So far it's practically flawless for a rom-com, and that's extremely rare for a this type of genre.

[@cellorosemusic12]

Same I love it!!!

[@sparkel1140]

Dramas I will consider rewatching are NIF, Untamed and Joy of life. The long night is super good but I won’t rewatch as it’s way too emotionally intense!

[@anotheryoutubeuser]

Love that you rate both iterations of NiF as being top tier. Even when the franchise makes missteps, the overall experience is still head and shoulders above the rest of the Chinese TV landscape. Also, I would include the first season of The Advisors Alliance in the three gold mine category.

[@fianorian]

Nirvana in Fire is one of the series that stick in my mind and I agree with you about the rewatch value of 3GM series. For me, I think I don't rewatch is because I am frightened that it will allow me to pick out all the faults I missed in the initial 'rush' of watching. I don't want to discover that the series I love had feet of clay after all.

[@nayalam6123]

NIF is my go-to drama whenever I'm bored and have nothing interesting to watch. I've watched it like a few dozen times.

[@crochet-and-coffee]

Is it on KZbin??

[@nayalam6123]

@@crochet-and-coffee yeah, with engsub

[@ritadapkey5807]

@naya lam - the more you re-watch NIF1, the better it gets and the more you learn. It is also my go-to drama. I loved the novel as well. I really enjoyed NIF2 and I am waiting anxiously for NIF3 to start filming - hoping for a prequel and that the script was written by original author. We will have to be patient as everything is being kept so secretive. In the meantime we can always re-watch 1. 💖💖💖

[@zelshamada_v]

I'm so happy to see The Long Night on your list because that one is SO good. It's not even a type of drama I like to watch (I did it because Bai Yu is there) but is so well written and the edition and actors are so GOOD! I even re-watched it because I kept thinking about it. Thank you for this list --Now I know better what I can check out next.

[@seraho]

I haven't watched the first NIF but NIF2 is by far my favourite Chinese Drama. I'm so pleased you gave it 3 gold mines 😊

[@yovitasanusi]

you really should watch the 1st one. you'll never regret it. Promise you.

[@beansprout_apg886]

NIF is the greatest cdramas ever. I cannot finish the NIF2 because I was so attached in the first.

[@jenniferariesta6635]

I’m with you! Stuck on NIF but NIF2 I binge through it for a week and now keep putting off watching the final eps just so I still have eps to watch. I guess I just feel for the characters more and not ready to part with them just yet.

[@Korwinexile]

As a history buff, I value good prooduction quality and good acting to make us experience the past. As there never seems to be a historically accurate plot in Chinese dramas anyway, I go for the visual and emotional impact the dramas create. My top 3 of 2015 - 2020 are: 1. NIF, 2. The Rise of Phoenixes, and 3. The Longest Day in Chang'an.

[@aqmalzikri1419]

My top 3 Gold Mines in my opinion would be: 1. Nirvana In Fire 2. Joy of Life 3. Sword Snow Stride I love the fast-pace, the world building, constant scheming and intelligent script writing. It keeps me engaged and on my toes, waiting for the grand reveal of secrets at the end. Used to love romance-like TMOPB but dramas with so much hateful characters and constant bullying, just bores me now, i’d have to watch while fast forwarding. Would love to have more recommendations on intelligent-plots dramas!

[@Boss-hz7yg]

You should try "The Dark Lord" and "Princess Silver"

[@nichareek4493]

I still love Nirvana in Fire until today!

[@neri4548]

Nirvana in Fire is such an amazing drama, I watched it by myself at first and could not get over how wonderful the plot and characters are so I rewatched it again with my grandmother and then with my siblings. Its now my go-to comfort series.

[@kwaod]

I have the exact same thoughts when it comes to the rewatchability of dramas. I too love a good 3 gold mine drama, but usually such dramas tend to be on the more serious tone as they challenge topics or plots that makes you think and are usually more artistically driven, which more often than not are the factors that gives a drama such high scoring, but aren't exactly plots that we want to rewatch as they are a bit too heavy. I guess you can take Oscar winning movies as an example, though they manage to win best picture of the year, but they might not appeal to the general masses as many might find them too serious or hard to understand as they are too artistically driven. But when it comes to lower rated dramas, they tend to be lighter pieces that are easier to watch and hence we feel more compelled to rewatch them as usually the reason we rewatch dramas is because we want something relaxing, not looking for something overly heavy that might add more stress to our already stressful lives.

[@jaetine9006]

I find that both Nirvana in Fire dramas have high rewatch value for me. I watch both of them about once a year. They are so rewarding to watch. Loved Joy of Life because it was so well paced and captivating.

[@linhchanbrown2006]

Thanks to your review, I got to know Nirvana in Fire, and it became one of my favorites as well. From there I also watch Nirvana in Fire II, which at first I thought was too slow, but then wham... I couldn't stop watching, finished it and then went back to watch Nirvana in Fire original, and had a much better appreciation for the plot, the script, and the acting.

[@fangirldiary6465]

Because of your list I watched NIF1 and NIF2, and I don’t regret anything. Thank you for the list! ❤

[@mallikasengupta1046]

Finally!! I've been waiting for this episode for a long time!!

[@elen1112ep]

i was happily surprised by this video :)

[@binudoddy4425]

My longtime favourite and a Masterpiece "Nirvana In Fire 1" is the best overall from strong solid storyline, brilliant scripts, awesome creative Directors, beautiful BGM and lastly great castings of actors. The one phenomenal drama along these years.. ❤️👏👍

[@melodyleong]

This comes at the perfect time! I just finished watching (and rewatching) WoH and all gazillion hours of your livestream on B站. 😅 Am at a lost now

[@minjilover]

I have definitely re-watched Nirvana in fire series the most so much that my mum now actually recognizes the drama at one glance every time I 'm re-watching it!

[@Geraldinelujan]

I agree with Nirvana in Fire, The Untamed and The Joy of Life. Love the plots and how their stories were developed. Majority of the characters were well played by the actors especially Hu Ge, Xiao Zhan, Zhang Ruoyun's characters respectively.

[@verseJ]

Nirvana in fire 1 and 2 both two of my very top dramas. The first season is what started my love affair with Chinese costume dramas and as for second season, for me its strength lied in getting the audience so invested in the characters like it had me sobbing big time

[@Liliana-rc1ky]

This is the episode I've been waiting for 😁

[@elen1112ep]

yes AvenueX you are a gold mine of Cdrama information :)

[@anascolina]

Thanks, Avenue X! From your list, I have only watched JoL, TMOPB, The Untamed and WoH, and have yet to watch the rest of the dramas. I hope there will be more 3 goldmines dramas in the future!

[@jamesl4392]

I come across your videos now and then. Today I happen to click on this one and saw that your opinion (on period dramas, which are the only ones I watch) resonates with me completely. Nirvana in Fire 1 and 2, Joy of Life, The Untamed. They remain my favorite dramas. I like Ten Miles of Peach Blossom as well. I am holding high hopes for Joy of Life 2 :)

[@elen1112ep]

I was happily surprised by the content of this video. It's like a mini-modern historical review of Cdramas :) AvenueX you're precious!

[@jaalisia]

Thank you so much for this list!! I'll try to watch NIF as everyone seems to be in love with it (must be good!) and a couple more of your 3 gold mine dramas 😁

[@halfmoon03]

I got into cdramas quite recently and started many that were praised in comments but i ended up totally disappointed. Since I found your channel, I know where to look for recommendations. The latest I watched thanks to you is Nirvana in Fire and my perspective on dramas changed forever.

[@elen1112ep]

agree. I always return to AvenueX's channel. It is very informational and interesting :)

[@riicesea1330]

I watched your last video about your favorite cdramas for this 2020 and I watched many of them because of you and I LOVED them all. You making this video is a HUGE blessing. Thank you AvenueX 🥺❤️ it’s happy drama watching with you!!

[@Dramalandkimchi]

A friend recommended NiF to me. It was the first C-drama which I rewatched coz it was super intriguing and a great plot. Its on my 10/10 list.

[@SR-kh6yq]

Ohh I didn't expect Joy of Life to get 3 goldmines too! I thought it'd be a 2. Personally, I love it but if I had to rate it, the fact that it's still an incomplete story would hold me back from giving it the highest rating. A perfect drama in my book needs to give me a perfect conclusion too 😁 And I agree, often dramas that are "too good" don't have the same rewatch value as others that have more flaws but a bigger and longer-lasting emotional impact on you, I guess. For me, I think it mostly comes down to the characters. I always go back to dramas where there are characters (or parings) I fell in love with - who became my "moonlight" - even if the story, the production quality or other technical aspects are a bit flawed, and I'm less inclined to go back to technically perfect dramas that gave me an amazing viewing experience _in the moment_ but where I didn't really get attached to any of the characters. The two Light On dramas or Someday or One Day are an example of the latter for me.

[@jasvlogs1023]

Season 2 will be aired next year, I guess. #jOLfanhere 😅

[@rao0733]

I’ve been rewatching Nirvana in fire II for so many times that I could literally recall all the lines.

[@dolefomo]

just thinking about SOOD, images of Li Zi Wei flash through my mind and makes me tear up. I actually didn't love the drama when I finished, I initially felt it was overhyped. But after some time, it still lingers with me and gives me a sense of melancholic nostalgia. Also Last Dance by Wu Bai is my most streamed song of 2021 SUCH A CLASSIC

[@MrOzzygator]

I only watch c-dramas so i agree with you on NIF1@ 2 AND Joy of life which are by far the best c-dramas over the last 5 years i would also throw in a few more like Love and Destiny, Story of Minglan,Untamed and my favorite Wuxia drama Evernight.

[@Fancy8733]

I was wondering why evernight1 wasn't mentioned. I liked this drama.

[@Momojeboo]

Thanks so much for posting this video! I have always wondered what your 3 gold mine dramas were from previous years!

[@kechoify]

I am really glad you made this video as I always wondered, "what kind of drama would earn AvenueX's 3 Gold" since there were no more than 2 were granted..... so now I can get the gist of it. Love Nirvana in fire (both 1 and 2), glad they got 3 gold!

[@elen1112ep]

now we know the AvenueX's picks :)

[@sigyul2283]

I could not finish The Bad Kids as I am just not ready for the double whammy that the story leads us to. So I bail on the darkest and saddest part to save my own peace of mind. I will reminiscent historic period dramas when I don't feel the urge to watch new ones, Love and Destiny, NiF I and II, Ashes of Love etc. I love your warning label at the left bottom corner

[@kaixinsoh]

Hahaha, before this video, I had a secret trick to finding the dramas you liked: 😂 1. Scroll through your KZbin channel 2. Look at the thumbnails 3. If the thumbnail was of you smiling, it meant you probably liked the drama

[@elen1112ep]

AvenueX you're my guiding star! I was confused when I started watching Cdramas in 2018. I wait for your reviews which are informational and entertaining. I already watched some of those dramas you mentioned. I will try to watch the Taiwan dramas? Maybe a new world will be opened for me :)

[@naddynaddy0309]

Before watch this video: okey nirvana in fire absolutely will be in this 3 gold mine list. woah the first drama in this list🤩🤩🥳

[@amu33331]

Joy of life had me by the neck. Am still waiting for the next season. Well, I guess I need to watch nirvana in fire.

[@TheMRock888]

I love your content, you are so eloquent! I have a mid-level understanding of Korean culture/history/language, because I've been a Kdrama fan since 2012. On the other hand, I just started watching Chinese dramas (on and off) around 3 years ago and they are so beautiful, but I'm so lost a lot of the time because I know nothing about Chinese culture/history. You're videos give me some insight on that, so thank you for the content you upload! I'm looking forward to your future videos!

[@bedhyachetri8036]

I got the new drama list now....and gonna jump right through.

[@elen1112ep]

agree! I will also try to watch these three gold mine dramas :)

[@HKogen]

Thank you for your analysis! I'm watching NIF2 right now, and I find it more realistic and profound, also better acted, than NIF (even though I love NIF to pieces and regularly revisit some pivotal scenes). You surprised me with your bit of info on Huang Xiao Ming. Why was he not loved? I found him the most striking and engaging actor in NIF2 (he was also very good in Winter Begonia). Concerning the rewatch value - in my opinion, it is not directly related to the overall quality of a drama. A generally mediocre drama can have moments deeply engraved in your mind. A consistently high quality drama can tell a story that exhausts itself naturally and satisfyingly and doesn't call for repeated viewings.

[@puananihoku7302]

I didnt know a lot of chinese dont like him and I wonder why? He is a great actor but several years back when his wife Angelababy was being bashed by the netizens for poor acting, he actually agreed with the netizens that his wife couldnt act! I thought what a jerk of a husband. If he felt that way, he should have just kept his mouth shut and quietly supported her. If he was so brazen to say it out loud, I wondered how he is in the privacy of his home. Since then, I refuse to watch his dramas. I dont expect our actors/celebrities to be perfect, but common decency or kindness to your wife would be nice. Will I miss any of his famous dramas...nope.

[@ampm9100]

@@puananihoku7302 And they finally divorced.

[@puananihoku7302]

@@ampm9100 wishing Angelababy happiness, new adventure, lots of laughter with her and baby on their own!💖

[@heavenlypickler]

The first Chinese drama I've watched was Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms in 2018 then the Princess Agent. Thank you for recommending the Nirvana in Fire series. I will watch them next.

[@thegroundedcircle]

Here is my 2 cent: sometimes we don’t rewatch really great produced dramas simply because they are pretty intense and could put us through too much of an emotional drive. It might be too exhausting, so probably 1 drive is enough lol. Also great drama doesnt mean it’s relatable so it might not add any more value in our life. Hence, no need to rewatch.

[@richaarunendu4080]

I started watching c dramas in 2021 after accidentally stumbling upon The Untamed. It’s definitely a rewatch for me, I’ll add NIF and The Long Night to my watchlist. Thanks

[@amifraise]

Agree for most of all, Guardian I like it but not as much other. And I’m glad I watched Someday or One Day because of you, it break my heart in a good way like I cannot move on from Li Zi Wei (longer than I thought I cannot move on from Lan Zhan and Wei Wuxian) Like I’m a fans of Greg Han now! Thank you for always good recommendation

[@elen1112ep]

Thank you for this 2015 to 2020 review. I like "Guardian" a lot! I will also try others. AvenueX the information you give us is also a gold mine :)

[@titiadeyemo1218]

@@elen1112ep p

[@borneoorchid]

Nirvana in Fire 1 swept me away & got me hooked on C dramas, and not just on K dramas. It should have gotten some major award for the level of acting, script & others. I re-watched it twice. To me, it was the very best.

[@lilianjuo]

After watch your video, I decided to try "Someday or One Day" and I just love it. It engaged me since the first episode. Thank you for the recommendation!

[@glacecoco]

I did the exact same as you.. I'm currently searching for a drama as good as this one and I can't find anything 😭 if you have any good recommendations..

[@jasvlogs1023]

@@glacecoco try ROYAL NIRVANA. It's a good one, too.

[@tsuvtom7668]

I agree with you on NIF1 and NIF2. Two of the very best period dramas. Until now, nothing comes close. However, I can not believe you missed on "Story of Minglan."

[@yvelle2001]

I have been waiting for this video!!! Woop Woop!

[@janemuses3031]

I totally agree - the best dramas like Some Day or One Day take you through such an emotional journey that once is enough to have it linger in your memory. Maybe one doesn't want to mar that initial intense experience?

[@darlenerichard1589]

I'm not an expert and new to the ancient, costume drama series, but found The Legend of Haolan and Love and Destiny amazing story-wise and visually delightful. Have you watched them and am I far off base. I truly agree with you about Nirvana in Fire 1 and 2, but the two I've mentioned may meet your three gold mine standard. I discovered you while watching Love and Destiny when you did such a wonderful video on the 'mis-playing' of zithers - I've never watched a Chinese drama the same since. Thank you.

[@lourayuen1229]

Good morning to you..it is cooler this morning. I watched NIF when I began watching C.dramas. I can’t say it is the top of my favourites. My 3 gold mine will be given to The Longest Day in Chang’a, love the music, the production, the costumes and everything. Watched it 3 times and every time I learned and discovered more about the storylines of the drama.

[@ashura515]

I was waiting for this 😃

[@elen1112ep]

I was happily surprised by the content of this video. It's like a mini-modern historical review of Cdramas from 2015-2020. AvenueX thank you very much for sharing your talent :)