Please Stay “SO NORMAL” Till The Last Moment! - A Journey to Love Halfway Review [CC]

[@ErinBerlintop10]

If Liu Yuning is not considered attractive...well I'm just speechless😂 -- he was the best part of The Long Ballad for me.

[@anavrevilla]

I KNOW RIGHT?????? His evil face in Long Ballad was BEAUTIFUL

[@beansprout_apg886]

Exactly 😊😊😊

[@katherinerose8989]

For me too! I found this drama looking for him as an actor

[@daisybelle5408]

Me too,,even in legend of anle

[@enamart]

Amo a Liu Yuning como cantante y actor 😍.

[@dabneypelegrin1104]

I am impressed with Liu Yu Ning's acting. I like his looks because they aren't the typical pretty boy idol looks. I don't understand why he is considered 'ugly' by the Chinese fans. His face is interesting to look at. Also, I appreciate the difficult journey he has undertaken to improve himself over the years. He basically had very little monetary support growing up, but through his hard work, he has made great achievements. He deserves our respect and admiration.

[@rasmusb43]

😅 I agree 🤔 in my opinion he's much more attractive than the playboy 😏 character.

[@naneunbuddyda]

Chinese and Korean always have the crazy beauty standards lol

[@jrmint2]

He's handsome and substantive, he resonates, which is better than some of the choices I've seen for pretty boy lead roles.

[@user-fd1qv7yr6f]

Totally agree!

[@rayaden_17]

people who think liu yunning is not handsome need an eye checkup. He has such a subtle yet truly hypnotizing beauty. Plus, his eyes alone convey more emotions than any other idol actors (ofc not all but most).

[@Springday0068]

My first Liu Yuning drama and wow! I’m so impressed!!!!! I just recently found out he’s the Liu Yuning that sang many of my favorite c-drama OSTs 😮😮😮 he’s just so cool!!!!!

[@KR-9.5]

I’m so happy this drama is introducing many new fans to LYN!! He worked so hard and overcame so much to reach this point 🥰🥹

[@user-nn3dd8rt6z]

Have you watched long Ballad? He is the lead for the second couple and i really like his role there

[@littlefairy9696]

He's no Yang Yang but I'd take Liu Yuning over any young traffic idol who is just a pretty face with lousy acting skills! There's just something about him. He's not WOW at first glance but he certainly grows on you. (Thats how i felt in The Long Ballad)...There's just something about him! Great charisma & oh don't even get me started on his singing. Amazing voice 🥰 🖕🖕To the haters... 😂

[@syi9306]

I love Yu Ning.... He is not just a pretty face .. but really attractive and his acting ang fighting skills... Omg.. so amazing!!

[@Nania777]

I'm glad he's not a Yang Yang. Lol

[@crystalnguyen5023]

Better than Yang Yang

[@liedshax7619]

...Agree.I dont even know why his so famous I guess China prefer looks more than talent and substance because there are many talented actors who deserves recognition and popularity when it comes to acting and talent but not that famous.Hate me all u want just being honest here and MY OPINION ONLY BASED ON WHAT I OBSERVED IN THE FF'S WORKS ANS DRAMAS .I find Yang2 ,XhaoZan, WangYibo ,GongJun rock stiff and bland they dont know microexpressions and they tend to monotone. WangHiedi ,DengWe, and Hu Yi Tian traffic/stagnant MLs(no effort of acting improvements),Tan JianCi and Leo Wu oily and cringey,they tends to do over the top .Xu Kai and ZhangLingHe still undecided and Neo Hao (bad script) Sorry mates but ,I prefer charisma,appeal, talent and substance rather than physical looks. ChenKun,William Chan, RenJiaLun, ChengYi, QuXiao,Zhang XinCheng, ZhangRouYun,LiChengYin,LuYunXi and DengLun impressed me so far.Looking forward to LiuYuNing,ZhangWanYi and ChangHuaSen they caught my interest in 2023.

[@Insightofanauthor]

Never imagined Liu Yuning as a male lead before . But watching this drama I need to see him as a male lead forever. He is bloody amazing in this drama. I can’t envision any other male lead in this role apart from him. Loooooove him in this. ❤

[@likaturn6679]

Agree!!!! I became his fan and now I’m waiting another drama with him as lead . He is incredible

[@softerhaze]

Having never seen LYN in a cdrama before but being a fan of his music and OSTs for a while, I'm really impressed. Not just by him but the drama so far. Gorgeous in every aspect and no frills. It makes me so sad to see ppl hating on his appearance like wtf??? He has charisma, charm, talent and a lovely voice, sure not stereotypically beatiuful, but he has beautiful features and honestly he's very attractive. I admire his mature responses to all the hate. Netizens are too superficial

[@beansprout_apg886]

You need to see hi in The Long Ballad.. I fell inlove on him in that drama.

[@josuetkiu9322]

ya, I was surprised that some claimed he's ugly.

[@skleroosis]

After all this condemnation with faint praise for his looks I was surprised that he's actually handsome 😅

[@NoviceGarden]

People nowadays are sold to those feminine and “pretty” man looks. LYN is quite attractive in his own ways.

[@fuchurZero]

He is the SML in The Long Ballad, way better couple wirh Zhao Lusi than Wu Lei and Dilraba, there was 0 chemistry between them

[@nevermorelenore4700]

Liu Yuning is far from ugly. He is quite handsome.

[@csp8429]

Thank you for being so kind to Liu Yuning. Some people are very unkind to him. I appreciate that he’s a man & not a boy, which is very appealing. This is a riveting drama with very artistic treatment. Music is also epic. I couldn’t agree more with you about He Lan Dou, who plays Yang Ying, the little princess. What a star she is! I can’t wait for the big reveal in the drama. Her discussion about her death with Yuan Lu, played by Chen You Wei, was hilarious and just what the scene needed at that point. I love this drama!

[@mediumbetsypalmer808]

I came here to say that ;)

[@csp8429]

Just watching Ep 20 RN

[@deannador]

​@@user-hl1om5ft5d That is exactly why the dramas are just more or less eye candies with no real story to tell.

[@vincentgrace800]

Liu Yuning and Liu Shishi fit so perfectly in this drama. The acting of both the lead actors are so amazing, as well as the supporting cast. It's so good. I laugh and cry at the same episode. So so sooo good!!! ❤️

[@Engenesim]

Actually this is the best C Drama in 2023 so far. Long time no watch such good wuxia drama with such good acting skills, CG, best actors, OSTs and plots. I don’t think other actors could portray or perform better than current actors of this drama. Especially Liu Shishi’s emotional eyes acting and Liu yuning’s tall & cool aura.

[@msfruityface]

I love this drama. I love how nothing is dragged out. For example, that Zhao Ji guy from the beginning, I thought he was going to stay on as the villain, but he got killed off right away. 😆

[@yeeher4284]

lol! I was really surprised by that too.

[@valw3212]

Yah I was expecting him to go on hating but was pleasantly surprised it was short lived. One down how many to go? ♥

[@thecloudflower7844]

Same!!! I was so surprised and happy he died right away. Lol

[@liliachan3753]

Yeah, the shocking killings off of villains has been great! 😂 it’s like, I don’t have to put up with their evil antics for the next 20 episodes.

[@funnybunny3823]

And he was killed so fast I had to rewind to watch it again 😂

[@chitru1983]

Liu Shi Shi's form is perfect for wuxia. So elegant and pretty and strong.I could actually imagine her to be someone who has practiced martial arts for a long time. If she isn't, big props to her because she plays and looks the part perfectly for me. Now that you said it tho, I wish I could watch her old wuxia dramas when was on her top form.

[@ErinBerlintop10]

I first saw her in Scarlet Heart where she does no fighting whatsoever, but it is just so loveable...her warmth exuded from the screen and she was a pleasure to watch.

[@asj685]

Liu Shishi’s Chinese dance background enhances her Wuxia moves

[@mediumbetsypalmer808]

For all the haters that say LYN isn't handsome enough....I have 1 question: Are you blind? I am appreciating watching a man, not a boy, in the lead for this story. Don't get me wrong, I adore the idol boys (Deng Wei I'm looking at you 0_0 ), but this is a refreshing change

[@March9370]

👍👍😊

[@lalbiaklianipautu6354]

Hello, I am also looking at Deng Wei!! But LYN is the Man of the hour. Quintessential charm of being what a man should be, not boyish

[@Jojoitaly]

Very good review! Surprisingly captivating drama. So glad to see finally Liu Yuning and his talents have been seen by more people in the Chinese drama land, despite all the hate and unfair criticisms.

[@jujutsushira9649]

Agree that the casting is perfect and yes! Liu yuning just keeps improving and so proud of him. Just watched 19 and 20 and that emotional scenes with LSS they totally nailed it.😭

[@Quartermaster_Veteran]

This is my first Liu Shishi drama and they way she poses and holds her form in her combat scenes is picturesque! So wonderful to watch her in action scenes! He Lan Dou's performance is terrific and gets you emotionally attached to her character. Great drama so far!

[@manalnadeem9190]

Came for liu yunning but literally the little princess has been the best character and performance in the drama so far .... She has done such a perfect job, such perfect acting even the actors working for years arent as good as her ... i was shocked and had goosebumps at many of her scenes!!!!

[@gongbuyeayo6970]

Agreed, her and Li GuanTong are the two characters I am most invested in.

[@hhh8979]

Liu Yu Ning is such an impressive handsome actor for me. I really want to let him know that there are many more people who love him around the world than those few haters. ❤❤❤ 😊

[@Yaya88007]

OMG, Thank God you gave such a wholesome review with all the elements put together, I'm definitely watching this. Thank you for Liu Yuning, I do not think from any point that he is Ugly, Those people are truly sick. I guess they are jealous because of how he landed this role and their pretty boy is still doing oily business in every drama known. Im surprised to see the second lead too, he was the second lead in The Long Ballad I guess. Both started as SL and now they are together in here too. I'm so eager to see this drama. Thak you for this review.

[@alixchong9792]

Some fans can be so shallow, for goodness sake, I want a good actor, not some pretty boy in my wuxia drama. LYN, in my opinion is really pretty good in his role, good balance between cool n sympathetic withou5 coming across confusing,. LSS is really classy as a bloodthirsty assassin, truly believable..she looks strong. So much more than most actress who are really just looking pretty. Those actress shld be ban, ughhh

[@toyajohnson6290]

I love this drama. What caught me off guard was the comedy... it's not laugh a minute, jokey joke comedy and it doesn't come at odd times. It's placed just right in the show. This has been such a delight at the end of the year!

[@thecloudflower7844]

So far, loving this drama! The main leads relationship is such a green flag!!! Love the humor, the fighting and all the characters.

[@yhaelie2676]

so agree with your review !!! Liu Yuning is perfectly good looking and he really did a good job in this drama!!

[@om2itlau]

I always thought Liu Yuning was really handsome idk I like his vibe can't believe PPL think he's ugly or average

[@verseJ]

Feels like it's been a long time since I have followed a drama as it airs, eagerly waiting for new episodes, and I'm not fast forwarding them. And 20 episodes aired as of today and it is still holding up great. It's got me on the edge of my seat but at the same time makes me squeal and smile. This drama has it all.Ensemble cast been doing great and I'm very much invested in Ning Yuanzhou and Ren Ruyi's journey to love. The characters, the dynamics are all written so well, the fighting choreo is performed so well and is a treat to watch, I love the costumes, the way this is filmed, the color grading. Both Liu Yuning and Liu Shishi are eating up their roles.Just so happy we get such a good drama just in time to end the year.Really really hope it holds up till the end and it will be one of the very best of the year, especially as an original script. Oh and a big big shout out to Fang Yilun for his performance as Shi San. It has impressed me like nothing else he has ever done before, he's excellent and will probably own many of my favorite light moments in the show!!

[@uyentang4571]

not only do I not fast forward, I rewatched it already. up to ep 20 that was aired today

[@verseJ]

@@uyentang4571 oh I have watched parts of several episodes that I really enjoyed as well.and I could watch them many more times again. I love when a piece of media can have me engaged and invested like that.

[@rabiamufti3692]

This is my favourite drama these days. I have watched 34 episodes so far and I agree there is no dull moment so far. Every scene is important to the plot. This is the drama I watch sitting down, paying attention while alot of others I may watch while doing chores.

[@raymonda6581]

I fully agree.... until episode 34. I wonder if you still have the same opinion after watching all 40 episodes.

[@markesiatatum7552]

I just finished it today and I do.

[@likaturn6679]

I loved drama. It’s the best drama for me. But after 34 episodes with the disappointed with plot : everything happens too fast and sad open endings is not my favourite

[@valw3212]

Yes to all the pretty male leads out there... Do some growth. No names are mentioned. Good looks fade and age creeps up. I guess they just want to make money rather than entertain us whole heartedly. To all the great ML who give their heart and soul to a performance I salute you. Thank you for this and am in agreement. This script is awesome. An arc in every episode. Peace♥

[@b.joseph7744]

Never has a review aligned so perfectly with my thoughts. I love Liu Shishi but He Landou definitely keeps steal my heart and tears through the drama. I am so happy for Fang Yilun getting this role, shows him in a new light.

[@bellabermudas]

I’m really enjoying this drama and I like the fact that the FL is paired with an older man who, by the way has charisma. LYN is loaded with talent. He had to work hard for everything he’s experiencing at the moment. Apparently he has been working on his line delivery and his posture. As a dancer I noticed his posture in his previous dramas but I still think he has a lot to discover about himself. I encourage him to keep digging. The ensemble is terrific! I love when the entire cast is talented and can pull me into their characters. The music is terrific and will probably end up on my phone. I don’t know the words but I can do a mean add lib. Take care and many thanks.💃🏽

[@reedmery1435]

It took Liu Yuning years just to learn Standard Mandarin (bcs he has thick Dongbei dialect), and another years for him to learn how to voice act. Even though he's a professional singer, it doesn't mean he's also alwys been good in talking. Sounding good in singing and talking have different techniques.

[@user-hl1om5ft5d]

you mean FL (matured looking 36) is paired with younger man (33). Chinese people tend to look 5 years younger than they really are, so if they look their age, that's not good.

[@bellabermudas]

I’m enjoying a more mature cast compared to the usual silly girl paired with a model boy who can’t act. Both these leads in my opinion are easy on the eye and are selling their characters to the audience. A Journey To Love is very entertaining with a great ensemble cast. The best actors I’ve seen in Chinese dramas are mainly older actors. 💃🏽

[@ritlua]

I honestly have enjoyed every single episode and have not laughed this much in a drama in a long time. The directing, the acting, the writing.. it's just what I want. Not the best ever but definitely the easiest to keep binging. And it's beautiful. Sooooo gooood.

[@MsFiona33]

I simply adore LYN!He is gorgeous and exudes intelligence and charisma....We need more dramas with him.That said, I am enjoying A journey to love very much : great plot, dialogs, actors on point, unlike other dramas around.

[@maggientonados8798]

I think Liu Yuning is handsome and I have enjoyed his acting since Ultimate Note. I love his singing as well.

[@rainbow2375]

Liu yuning really did so well, I was surprised by his acting in the first episodes

[@gudrun5531]

I really like Liu Yuning and I'm eager to watch this show once it has finished airing. I found his role great in The Long Ballad, and then he really surprised me with his role in Heroes (quite a darker wuxia than I'm used to, but a pretty meaty role for him).

[@oohkalanzi]

I don’t understand why the male lead is not found attractive. I find him so cute!!!! Like I genuinely do not understand 😂

[@thecloudflower7844]

Agreed! Found him to be so cute and handsome lol. Don't know why people call him ugly.

[@stephanieo.8216]

Chinese netizens better leave my mans Liu Yuning alone! Never heard of him till this drama, but I'm willing to go China for him, and I don't even leave the house! I'm sooooooo smitten, HELP😭

[@deirdreconley6295]

Love Liu Yuning in his guest appearance in Wonderland of Love! Good looking, interesting face.

[@phyzchox]

I enjoy this drama so much. I agree that the princess character is the most interesting among all, simply because she has much character development from a know-nothing princess to a badass princess. I wonder by the end of the journey if she's going to be the new ruler of the kingdom as she's getting wiser and wiser more than her bros. Look forward to the ending. Let us pray together they're not going to mess up

[@March9370]

Love this drama so much. Can feel the actor’s devoted performances. Thumbs up for the cast👍👍👍. Go, go, go…. Liu Yuning

[@tifftiff4952]

Liu Shi Shi is so beautiful and elegant. She did age a bit but still classy as ever

[@melonseeds1988]

I really agree. It's not the BEST period drama out there and pretty much normal BUT IT DOESN'T DO STUPID THINGS we are used to see in crappy chinese dramas. That is why it stands out.

[@Mizwanderer1989]

Chinese fans seem to forget that beauty and fame are relative. Who cares how beautiful an actor/actress is if the character they play isn't described as the "beauty"? Do they really want to see only bad acting as in the case of Yang Yang and Dilireba?

[@johnnylee1617]

I've watched 19 episodes and I recommend this drama to anyone into engaging Chinese series. It's got everything that makes a show great: romance, action, mystery, without falling into clichés or weak plots. Personally, I'm not drawn in just because of good-looking actors and actresses; I value chemistry between the couples. Too often, dramas squander potential with stunning leads but falter due to weak chemistry, silly plots, and uninspired dialogue.

[@ddzgdt]

Obsessed with Fang Yilun's character lol. I have also been following his journey in dramaland for quite a while and I'm hoping this is the big break he deserves!

[@simsgazytech2013]

he looks like Hyunbin seriously. i hope he will got carreer as good as Hyun bin in future .

[@likaturn6679]

I saw other drama with him and I was not very good drama . I finished only one: something about hypnosis. I hope very much that his career ‘ll grow up after this drama. he deserved it. excellent comedian, he doesn’t need the role of sufferers

[@Cthulhu_451]

When AvenueX mentions things like Guardian or Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms it makes me think about how far her channel has come. I think it would be a really cool idea if AvenueX did like a monthly review of an old video, kinda like how the Movie Pitch Meeting guy revisits his older videos and comments on them (if you've seen his channel). I think it would be a great way to introduce all her new subscribers to some older dramas, or even rant videos of dramas to avoid, especially seeing as 2023 has been a pretty poor year for Chinese dramas. I think it's a good way to highlight her older videos too and it doesn't require too much extra work for her as she's just basically re-watching her videos and commenting on them in retrospect.

[@msolqq]

I really really wish it was easier to search AveX old reviews by titles

[@butterfly224ll]

I like Lui Yui Liang as well he didnt have any plastic surgery, and his expression is so natural to look at. I am unsure why the netzien called him ugly! Everyone should have a good look at themselves in front of mirror!

[@kara-karina8530]

100% agree! ❤ Waiting with baited breath for each episode. I am so happy for Liu Yuning for getting a main character role finally. I noticed him in The Long Ballad first, and then kept liking the soundtracks he sings. He is such a lovely singer. And holy shit, he looks great here! They both do. So refreshing to see such mature relationship, and it makes sense now that I know the scriptwriter wrote The Dream of Splendour which I adored. Even the comedy moments are just right. May it continue with same strength as it started!❤🤞🤞

[@wishfulkelly3669]

Yayyyy, finally a positive review from AveX. ❤❤❤ TBH, Liu Yuning for me is quite good looking. Why would someone call him ugly, or even ok? His love is definitely above ok. Such a talented and hardworking artist. I really hope Prisoner of Beauty will air soon.

[@vestriarose]

lots of love for the cast, story, messaging, music, directing, production, everything! Took only one episode for me to be drawn in. Also Liu Yuning + his character here is so lovable - flawed just right, morally upstanding & adorable. Handsome no matter what the critics say.

[@deyayona]

So I started 2023 with Liu Yifei and now its ending with 2 more Liu's I discovered this year😄.. Loving this drama so far. Almost halfway there and it still hasn't started dragging.. Hope it never slows down. I remember Shishan in Long Ballad but he's so much different and better here.. But the best performance must be from Prince Li or princess.. She is incredible in the drama..

[@thehealthyzucchini6878]

I was pleasantly surprised by the accidental encounter of this drama three days ago. I've enjoyed every moment and am so glad to see AvenueX's support as well. I've dropped so many dramas prior to this I can't even count. Delighted I found this gem.

[@arkytior]

People think he is ugly?? WTF??? Are they blind or what?

[@user-hl1om5ft5d]

i think he is the most handsome man in the world.

[@LittleAmyHe]

RIP Liu Yuning XD I took so much emotional damage from people thinking he’s ugly??? I always thought he was conventionally good looking. Or at the very least, quite cute. This is the same level of emotional damage I felt when I found out that people call Zhang Ruoyun and Wei Daxun “ugly handsome”. You have 100% convinced me to watch this drama. Thank you!

[@thecritic6977]

I've been enjoying A Journey to Love so far, I'm particularly mesmerized by the FL, Liu Shishi. I'm so sad LYN is facing so much unnecessary hate, this is reminding me of the nonsense directed at Ren Min too. Some of my favorite actors / actresses are not conventionally attractive, and I think that's precisely because they can't rely on their looks and are actually incredibly hardworking. I'm thinking in particular of Zhang Ruoyun & Chen Kun. If someone is steadily improving, putting in the work, and not a pain to look at, who cares that they don't look like a model. Acting requires talent and hardwork, not just good looks.

[@bellabermudas]

If I could have given you two thumbs I would’ve. Great post.👍🏽👍🏽

[@thecritic6977]

@@bellabermudasThank you!

[@user-hl1om5ft5d]

he is not the only actor with haters. this is common thing apparently.

[@caren6310]

Did they give Chen Kun hate??? 😮 he’s amazing I particularly loved his work on The Rise of Phoenixes

[@atsa8821]

I've always thought Chen Kun is considered as conventionally attractive though? Maybe it's just my personal preference haha

[@valkang2844]

Liu Yu Ning is outstanding in this drama despite all the bashing and critics from some insane ruthless fans of competitive oppositions. He is good looking as an Asian guy, multi talented as a singer, actor and streaming online artist especially his line delivering skill, great voice indeed. Yes. I pray too that this drama won't crash at the end. Liu Yuning is worth it on his way to stardom with his great character and humour, an extremely conscientious strong Chinese artist. LSS is a married woman so not advisable to CP them in real life. Her fans are attacking LYN ever since they started shooting the drama last year Stop that nuisance only ambarrasse yourselves.

[@lamusiquefanatique]

And I agree. I hope this drama is really A Journey to "Love" not a Journey to "Hate"...what I mean is, I hope it doesn't crash and burn because I love it so far. I love the characters and the action scenes. I'm rooting for its success.

[@xyzhtm]

I like the way Liu Yuning act naturally, he is not so stiff as other Chinese actors in costume dramas. And he is handsome!

[@buddyl3340]

Journey to Love gave me a flavor of the "Golden age of TVB Hong Kong 80 Wuxia", scripts, characters, acting, OST, ...Tony Leung, that has been missing in recent years! Much better than The story of Kunming place! I am glad Lui Yunning is filming in the legend of jewelry with Zhao Lusi despite all that ridiculous complaints. Love that little princess when she acts so nervous doing the first fighting.

[@ingenakel]

I started to watch this on a whim and got hooked. I love watching your reviews and feel your opinions are spot on.

[@thechronnocle4990]

I love this drama a lot! Yes it's not the greatest out there but definitely one of the best this year. Richie Ren is singing the OST I guess because he's a good friend of Liu Yuning? They were a pair of team on Our Song season 1.

[@asj685]

The 2019 series of Our Song is a gem!

[@cecildolorfino5632]

Finally! The reaction I have been waiting for. Since this drama aired, it's been a journey. Cecilia Liu is one of my favorite actresses. Liu Yuning, wow! I am starting to be a fan of his. He is in no way ugly! I don't understand Chinese beauty standard. He has his own charm and he is actually charismatic. And what a superb singer! His songs have been added to my playlist. Apart from the two leads, I like the character of the princess. I thought she is doing justice to her role pretending to be a prince. Looking forward to your Final reaction...

[@mitjong855]

finally a good drama to watch for me after lost you forever

[@jacqt4432]

I'm quite amused whenever I remember how some netizens called Liu Yuning ugly😂😂😂...like really? He's a handsome guy! Maybe those complaining wanted him to be the usual "pretty" boy routinely seen on screen🤷‍♀️ Anyway, I'm also glad that his acting keeps getting even better and better. He also uses his own voice in the drama and it's a strong one & emotive one. Both leads & supporting actors are doing a great job! Alen Fang is killing me each time he goes "beauty" 😂😂😂. Prince Li/Princess Ying has impressed me alot. Her character has quite contrasting sides to it and she nailed it. She seriously irritated me, annoyed me, then made me feel laugh. I felt sorry for her & cried with and for her, and I also managed to feel proud of her. The fighting scenes are great! A great mix of serious scenes with just the right splash of romance and hilarious scenes. The plot is slowly unfolding. The OSTs are the icing on the cake!

[@user-yp6xe1iv9t]

He’s natural beauty the real beauty!!! ❤❤❤ and support him!! Man he’s a hottie in this drama !!

[@TemiLagos]

That the problem with cdrama, they want female looking men. Then complain that his too feminine for the role 😂😂😂 The male lead is stunning.

[@Maryquotewindadada]

I can't wait for a second part review cuz i just finished the whole drama and i feel COMPLETELY EMPTY. Spoiler:😭😭😥

[@raymonda6581]

I share the same sentiment. What makes it even more ironic is this could actually be a very good drama. But the scriptwriter / director / producer chose to ruin it.

[@Shoinie]

Saaame. I'm heartbroken 💔

[@Crivitao]

Thank you! I’ve been so hoping this drama would be worth starting, and now I can finally do that. Wonderful holiday present indeed!

[@amandam4692]

I was debating watching A Journey to Love so I was very happy my favorite C-Drama reviewer posted a video. Thank you AvenueX 😊

[@jaksable1]

I noticed LYN in a few dramas and thought him interesting. I haven't watched this yet, it's on my list. I understand that he's actually gotten hate mail telling him he's ugly and he says he is himself. Why? I find him very distinctive and, yes, very good looking with a captivating, wry smile. I'm looking forward to watching this. Thank you for such a thorough review.

[@JB2AMBang]

Big up the review. I really appreciate the music and OST too, the singers line up! Wow! Our leads have such beautiful relationship, mature and understanding. But so far the best thing of this drama is the script for me

[@hinaichigo5701]

Not me feeling incredibly proud of LYN as if he was my child 😂😂 He really has it though.. I remember that back in the ultimate note days, netizens kept calling him fat because he had put on a little weight after some health issues. He made jokes on his livestream but I still think its sad how hurtful netizens can be. Especially when they're doing it on purpose 😢

[@latinaintexas2872]

Asian People are so Vain about Looks!!! I'm from USA and I think he is Very Good Looking and Cute!!!! Asian People need to get Over It!!!

[@user-hl1om5ft5d]

Asian looks cannot compare to Western looks.

[@296shila]

This drama is in my opinion the best in 2023 so far. From the actor and actress and the shot. The story is very good. 👍👍for the team

[@nadineagbohou9486]

Lui yuning, I find him so hot, I like his eyes. And i like his originality. I like his acting too ❤ he his so chrismastic.

[@j-g-s6991]

I am so glad that you made a genuine review about their acting😃 actually I don’t understand why some of the people out there saying why is not handsome or what so ever, hays! yeah you are correct Ning in his character is on point so natural and is really fit for this drama! Salute to the people behind in this drama! It’s very nice❤️

[@allesav]

Im very picky when wacthing historical dramas. Especially the acting and storyline, but this I LOVE IT! I binge watch all 20 episodes and love every minute of it. I enjoy how there were funny moments. Few of the villians at the beginning were killed without wasting no time which is rare in other dramas. The bond the group made while being on a dangerous journey warm my heart. Love how the main leads communicate thier concerns and worries in their relationship. How open they were to expressing their feelings. Really enjoy how supportive the characters were for each other ❤

[@SuperNachoDip]

I really enjoyed this drama. I think LSS and LYN did a good job in this. The pairing was great. The editing, music, costume, makeup - everything was good. Nothing I found ridiculous like some other dramas. I found the actress who played YangIng’s acting was pretty annoying- a lot of repetitive expression in the beginning. But she’s doing great with emotional scenes in later episodes.

[@thecloudflower7844]

Same. I was annoyed by her timid character. But that just means the actress played her role brilliantly. I can't wait to see her!

[@AM-ry4px]

All actors and actresses preformed so WELL in this drama. I got drawn into it after the first 6 eps, then waited un patiently everyday for new ep😅😅😅.

[@akli3481]

I agree with you, I have seen LYN in many dramas and he's definitely been improving. Who cares if he's not handsome or good looking? He fits this role very well.

[@goldHydrangeas]

One thing I noticed is the obvious killing, fighting scenes and stabbings where I can see either it’s retractable dagger 😂 or sword held on the side armpit not the heart where it’s implied fatal wound. Like the amt of hits they got just amazing how RX is still alive& walking after being ambushed by 6 realms, or Ning after giving her all his life force and poisoned.

[@bunnyblue3082]

I didn't know how to word it, but you pointed out my feelings about this drama so eloquently! Love your reviews!

[@jovang3882]

Omg I’m loving this drama so so much! I’m also praying it only gets better and better than it already is

[@cynthiasamson7232]

Attractiveness often does not = standard beauty and of course Beauty doesn't often = attractive. I'd rather watch LYN > YY or ZLH

[@LuArielLor]

YES!!! This drama makes me want to add so many bonus gold mines. 2023 was quite lackluster that though this isn't perfect, its feeling like it is. Definitely am super impressed by Liu shishi's performance and her ability to convey emotions with so little lines. Wish it continues to impress me but I think I have yet to find my it drama of 2023. But I hope this one can end strong and be it

[@goodbyeeechewbaaah]

omg after watching this i have to go back and re watch for the music. Honestly loving this drama so much! I'm eatting everything up! Love the complexity of each character and why certain characters might be a better fit to do or be the middle person between the ml and fl. ughh i cant wait for new eps!!!

[@palor2911]

I agree. I was really impressed by the casting. Everyone was well cast. I love Alen Feng's portrayal of Yu Shisan. He steals the show every time he's on screen. Every movement he made was a marvel to look at, to the point where I couldn't wait to see him on screen. The princess/prince Li actress surprised. She nailed every part that she did. She was believable as an awkward, ordinary looking princess and as a naive prince. She was believable and hot in the spicy scene between her and her boyfriend and sad in the heartbreaking scene between them. I also have no complaints about Liu YuNing, the actor who played the male lead. He comes off so naturally playing this character that i couldn't tell if he's acting or if this is how he is in real life. The only thing is, he doesn't have as much screen presence as the other actors. As for Liu Shishi, I know there's been many praises on her beauty and gracefulness. However, she's the weakest link for me. She looks the part, does the fight scenes amazingly well, but she only has a few facial expressions. After a while, I got tired of seeing the same thing. Also, she comes off like a woman putting on a big girl act in front of her enemies and not someone who naturally commands respect and elicits fear. Lastly, i agree with you on the directing and cinematography. However, the weakest part of this series is the romance between the main couple. It is boring and awkward. You cannot tell me it is not awkward and weird when the FL suddenly insisted on having the ML's kid. It made no sense to the point where I'd even call it bad writing. The romance wasn't well developed to give it enough tension for the two, to where anytime they're being lovey-dovey on screen, I either cringe or am bored to death over how unbelievable it is. Edit: Healthy romance doesn't necessarily mean boring. It can be interesting and romantic, but it does require more creativity. My issue with the main couple's romantic scenes is that there's just SO MUCH TALKING. And it's not the poetic moving kind of dialogue either.

[@thecloudflower7844]

Interesting. On the contrary, I love the relationship between the leads. Both are in their 30s, having lived a bloody life. Romance is not a priority in their lives. I actually adore that the FL only wanted a child from the lead and no romantic feelings involved hahaha that set up was one of the most hilarious scenes I ever watched. I found their relationship to be refreshing. It's not your typical beautiful and handsome leads falling for each other's beauty. I felt they had chemistry at first meeting, got to know each other, developed mutual respect, admiration and then realized there was more there then just something platonic. One of the best relationships written so far. I hope the writers continuing having the couple talk and communicate, cause it's such a green flag!

[@Kaori832]

Last point 🎉 I m agree with you as to romance between the leads.He was not shocked .She was not innocent.Also she is not sex experienced or she is 😮 And this is what attractive in her for him or not 😮 Lui Shi shi doesnt look weak to be sexy attractive prostitute agent ,she is a warrior and whatever she wants she says it stright ...but she doesn't act seduce like.First time I was like a lost viewer,it looked like he doesn't like her for that sex experienced job 👍 but with time he suddenly gets involved into her plan witha kid 😮 This was the only thing that i cannot get through 😮😢

[@marinaabreu9323]

Personally, I like their romance. It is very mature and they do not lose their heads or themselves after falling in love, a rare thing in dramaland.

[@Kaori832]

@@marinaabreu9323 She is brave to talk about baby but he understands what's happening, it's sex . So ,he is doing shy because he likes her ,and she acts like a man ,he doesn't face with it before ,so he gets shy .

[@reedmery1435]

But the dialogues between the FL and ML regarding relationship and career is one of the best thing in this drama😂 what they say is kinda relatable for ppl in our era now... i rarely find such a mature couple in costume drama these days.

[@lilsangarden]

noooo!!!! im so hooked after listening to your story and i love your sense of humor!!stay healthy girl!

[@greentortoise4629]

I actually love the ML, he’s a great actor and I can’t wait to see this drama

[@terryb7115]

I LOVE this drama! I fell in love with Liu Yuning when I watched The Legend of Anle. As a matter of fact, the ONLY reason I completed watching The Legend of Anle was the fact that Liu was the saving grace for that failure of a show. I am also greatly offended by comments made saying he isn’t good looking enough? Are you freaking serious? His “maleness” alone is more than enough to melt any real woman’s heart! He may not be an effeminate pretty boy but real women want real men but back to the present show of which we are speaking now, every actor in it is adorable and makes me ache to get back to them as soon as possible. And omg, Alan! The humor makes me roar with laughter! I will be so depressed when this show ends. It has become that important to me. I need this group of actors in my life, always. This year… my heart has been won over by 1) Lost You Forever 2) A Journey to Love 3) Only For Love and 4) Love is Sweet

[@Kiki-en9vm]

If the lead actor is not handsome enough for the chinese,I ask them to look at themselves in the mirror without plastic surgery, and tell me where they fit themselves in the wor.d class of beauty, per shape, length,and body form,I find it so irritating when the chinese complain about beauty,that lead guy is handsome enough.

[@yuenfunong3675]

He is so cool, I like his soulful looks

[@iyakida2053]

what i love about this drama is the fighting scenes..... And the acting is great very unexpected for the characters.... The ending is too sad for me.... I shed many tears....

[@celebritygroup]

Cried like a baby, shouting to the screen: "I don't want him to die!". Writer's revenge.

[@guz3108]

The best drama I've seen. Especially ending episode 35-40

[@borex1596]

They are so well matched! I love the whole crew! The cast are 👏👏👏👏👏👏 CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERYONE. Love from 🇵🇭

[@neonlaugh]

Please review Romance on the Farm!! It is my absolute favorite drama of 2023 and I feel like it’s the same caliber of writing and attention to all characters as Journey to Love. I agree 100% with all your points on Journey to Love and am loving it so far. I also appreciate the leads’ mature relationship. I think it’s the first time I’ve EVER seen a couple in dramaland discuss their future and whether it aligns. More like this in dramaland please!

[@mv5503]

Came here for Liu Yuning! I started following him after The Long Ballad. He’s so talented and FAR from ugly! & I like that he doesn’t have the pretty boy face that all the currently popular actors have. His features are sharp yet soft and mature. I will continue to support LYN!😊

[@elizabethlee1017]

I totally impressed with the crew. Shi shi is so natural without overacting . Yuning shines too. But look at the coleads. The princess acting bringing us with her as she grows from a lovesick immature clumsy girl to a more confident lady with a mind to think. My greatest surprise is No 13, from his past works is not memorable but I noted his good looks. But in this drama, i love his characterisation. Its so funny and self effacing. Good Job. I love this drama for storyline, fighting scene n clever dialogue that gives us roller coaster of excitement, sentimental, romantic and humorous. Love it

[@maryannrondinella5680]

I agree that this is a superior costume drama. I've watched the first 18 episodes and haven't been bored. I am worried that some shop-worn tropes are creeping into the plot: an innocent hostage commits suicide to keep a main character from being coerced; wild animals threatening an injured character (seriously, do the annals of Chinese history include a lot of accounts of wolves eating people?!), and an obsessed younger male pining for the FL. At least so far, no one has fallen off a cliff so that gives it at least one gold mine from me.

[@deannador]

Great review! I do agree this drama is quite a surprise. I enjoy it a lot because the actors, actresses are really good and fit their characters. This is quality acting compared to some overhyped series with the "big names". And I have to praise the director/s, the writers and generally the crew too. I have now been waiting for a drama for quite a while where the characters are not super sweet, dumb or scheming or taking themselves too serious. Here, all of them are credibly real people, OK, this is still a sort of wuxia with a bit of flying around, but there is no lagging in the story. Luckily they terminally finished off the bad guy in the beginning so he would not resurrect (I hope) to cause trouble again. I quite like the fun bits e.g., with the typical superhero movie vibe where the 5 boys line up 😀or it is so good to see that Allen Fang can smile and be so bold without overplaying the character. Yes, Avenuex is spot on saying the Allen Fang has shown so much more in this film than in the other, "more prestigious", charcters that hopefully from now on he will be cast in better roles. The ML Liu Yuning is such a charming and attractive man, anybody saying he is unfit for this character (because he is not handsome enough) is an idiot. I can constantly rant on why netizens watch dramas with a nonsensical story but a beatiful and talentless ML, whatever. They are really shallow. Instead, Liu Yuning needs to be praised and deserves more and more recognition, he is really leaping forward since the Long Ballad. His acting is getting better and better and is very natural, IMO he was one of the best characters in The legend of Anle. Lu Shi Shi is a new discovery for me, I have not yet seen her in anything, and here she is so elegant. The young princess - actually she is one of the stars of the show, let's see how her character develops. And another good thing with this film is the matching ages with mature people acting as mature characters, welldone. At last there is no 5-10 years age discrepancy between a 30ish actress (FL) and the actual young "talent" ML. Let's see how the story ends, I hope this series will have a definitive (and good) ending dissimilar to some of the previous 2023 dramas (we all which ones I am talking about).

[@liztatianaflorez3942]

I've known Liu Yuning's work since "Heroes" and I think he has a very good performance. So, I plan to watch his new drama and thanks to your review all the more reason I will. ❤❤❤

[@user-nd2oj4jm1f]

LOVED this drama. The role reversal of h e r hitting on h I m is already one of Cdrama's iconic funny scenes! Your well-reasoned review is simply excellent. I d o give it 3 Goldmines and a diamond thrown in. WTF is this insulting of Liu Yuning, ML here?? Too tall to be pretty? I am grateful for actors conveying emotion with a tic of an eyelid rather than huge saucer eyes (go-to for surprise/shock/fear etcetcetc). The cast here is simply stellar! Shout-out to the actress playing the boy envoy, and the hot-headed student/general in love with his master, whose desperate love disrupts things often. Pretty boy Alen Fang, Feng?also sooo good! The cast is smart, and their intelligence shines through. ❤❤❤