I was pleasantly surprised by this Drama. Everything was visually beautiful and the acting was excellent. The main characters had a deep love between them but very little physical affection. I was expecting and hoped for more than was given Lol. It was quite restrained. However, it was performed so well that it wasn't needed. It didn't feel drawn out to me either. The whole team of actors did very well and I was left feeling moved by this sad and beautiful story.
5 Reviews
The beauty of bones.
taintedsorrow20 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
There's a considerable amount of dramas full of overly wrought love stories in which the conflict seems contrived merely to create drama, comedy or both.
In One and Only the love is so simple yet intricate, that it feels totally believable.
This is one my favourite dramas of all time. The quality of the acting leaves me breathless.
The attraction between Shiyi and Shengchen is obvious, but genuine, and is filled with the kind of "touches" that make it feel real.
Because all of us intuitively know what they are going through as they strip away layer after layer. Who of us hasn't feared exposure of the person we feel the world shouldn't see? As such, we are drawn into their secret as we see them shouting their feelings without a sound. Because one can find someone to share that silence with, and it is that that makes being vulnerable worth it.
There is a scene I can't seem to forget where Shengchen and Shiyi were simply looking at each other eyes, and yet, the magnificent depth and variety of what "those eyes" express is overwhelmingly powerful.
Not every unforgettable love story needs to have a happy ending. The ending while tragic is perfectly fitting;
From the beginning, it was a forbidden love, and a silent one, as historically speaking, women didn't have a lot of rights in Ancient China and were expected to marry whomever the family selected.
On the other hand, even if you were the most loyal General of the Emperor, he could still execute you for any reason at all. It was portrayed as realistically as possible, and beautifully done. It is also a visually beautiful drama.
The haunting OST sets a marvellous tone for the drama, and I found myself listening the main song over and over, each time tracking the path of each voice, an all-embracing delight. It weaves itself into your consciousness through flawless vocals and longing lyrics.
A must-watch.
In One and Only the love is so simple yet intricate, that it feels totally believable.
This is one my favourite dramas of all time. The quality of the acting leaves me breathless.
The attraction between Shiyi and Shengchen is obvious, but genuine, and is filled with the kind of "touches" that make it feel real.
Because all of us intuitively know what they are going through as they strip away layer after layer. Who of us hasn't feared exposure of the person we feel the world shouldn't see? As such, we are drawn into their secret as we see them shouting their feelings without a sound. Because one can find someone to share that silence with, and it is that that makes being vulnerable worth it.
There is a scene I can't seem to forget where Shengchen and Shiyi were simply looking at each other eyes, and yet, the magnificent depth and variety of what "those eyes" express is overwhelmingly powerful.
Not every unforgettable love story needs to have a happy ending. The ending while tragic is perfectly fitting;
From the beginning, it was a forbidden love, and a silent one, as historically speaking, women didn't have a lot of rights in Ancient China and were expected to marry whomever the family selected.
On the other hand, even if you were the most loyal General of the Emperor, he could still execute you for any reason at all. It was portrayed as realistically as possible, and beautifully done. It is also a visually beautiful drama.
The haunting OST sets a marvellous tone for the drama, and I found myself listening the main song over and over, each time tracking the path of each voice, an all-embracing delight. It weaves itself into your consciousness through flawless vocals and longing lyrics.
A must-watch.
So glad there's a sequel
magnoliacream7 April 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Zhou Sheng Chen (Ren Jialun), Junior Prince of Nanchen, is the emperor's brother who prefers to protect the people with his sword than become a royal power player in the palace. At the age of thirteen, he started his career as an accomplished general who has never lost a battle. Among his loyal soldiers are ten orphans he adopted and trained to serve in the Nanchen Royal army.
Cui Shi Yi (Bai Lu) belongs to a powerful noble family in her mother's side and was engaged to the crown prince even before she was born. When her father's family angered the empress, he was forced to leave his wife and daughter so they would not be implicated by his clan's misfortune. This caused Shi Yi to lose her voice. She was sent to the Nanchen Royal Mansion in the Western State to serve as Zhou Sheng Chen's disciple. Shi Yi grows to love her life at the mansion where her master tries to impart knowledge when he is not in battle. She also learns to love the ten orphans who have now grown up to be competent leaders in the army. She and Chen develop affection for each other but due to her engagement and his vow not to have wife and children so he does not pose a threat to the emperor, they could not confess their feelings.
The story at first felt generic, about members of noble families not being able to marry whom they want, not to mention being forcibly involved in palace politics, but Ren Jialun's and Bai Lu's performances kept me from getting bored. They are both loaded with charisma that drew me into their characters.
If this didn't have a sequel, I would have lambasted this to pieces due to its ending. As it is, this fired me up to watch the sequel, Forever and Ever.
Cui Shi Yi (Bai Lu) belongs to a powerful noble family in her mother's side and was engaged to the crown prince even before she was born. When her father's family angered the empress, he was forced to leave his wife and daughter so they would not be implicated by his clan's misfortune. This caused Shi Yi to lose her voice. She was sent to the Nanchen Royal Mansion in the Western State to serve as Zhou Sheng Chen's disciple. Shi Yi grows to love her life at the mansion where her master tries to impart knowledge when he is not in battle. She also learns to love the ten orphans who have now grown up to be competent leaders in the army. She and Chen develop affection for each other but due to her engagement and his vow not to have wife and children so he does not pose a threat to the emperor, they could not confess their feelings.
The story at first felt generic, about members of noble families not being able to marry whom they want, not to mention being forcibly involved in palace politics, but Ren Jialun's and Bai Lu's performances kept me from getting bored. They are both loaded with charisma that drew me into their characters.
If this didn't have a sequel, I would have lambasted this to pieces due to its ending. As it is, this fired me up to watch the sequel, Forever and Ever.
Beautiful
antheaphilander14 February 2022
I cried my eyes out!!! Its beautiful and very easy to follow. Top notch acting skills by all parties concerned main leads and supportive cast. Definitely going to watch the sequel. 10/10 for me. Always a Bai Lu fan, now appreciating Allen Ren more. Great chemistry portrayed and a total recommendation from me.
Disappointed
entervv11 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Lilian, a friend of mine, extended a warm invitation to engage in a game of tennis earlier today. However, I must admit with regret that I inadvertently missed her initial message. It was only later, when I finally reached out to her, that I learned about the delightful distraction that had ensnared her attention - a captivating TV show that had clearly captured her imagination. Lilian, in her typically candid manner, shared her enthusiasm for this new show, and it became evident that she was wholly engrossed in its plot and characters.
This revelation led me to ponder the potential ramifications of Lilian's newfound fixation. I couldn't help but wonder whether this alluring drama might gradually consume more and more of her time. The reason for my concern was not solely rooted in her decision to prioritize the show over our planned tennis outing, but rather in the broader implications of such a choice.
In a world teeming with countless forms of entertainment and diversion, one's choice of leisure activities can significantly influence their daily routine and long-term priorities. Lilian's preference for the TV show, while perfectly valid, could potentially reshape the way she allocates her time and attention. As with any engrossing narrative, the desire to unravel the mysteries and developments of the show's storyline may lead to extended viewing sessions, ultimately diminishing the time available for other pursuits.
The act of watching television, though often enjoyable and culturally enriching, can sometimes blur the boundaries between leisure and preoccupation. It's not uncommon for individuals to find themselves inadvertently drawn into the enticing world of a series, causing hours to slip by unnoticed. While this immersive experience can offer a welcome respite from the demands of daily life, it can also disrupt established routines and commitments.
In Lilian's case, her eagerness to indulge in the show raises questions about the future dynamics of our shared activities. Tennis, a recreational sport we both enjoy, had been a source of not only physical activity but also social interaction and shared experiences. Our games on the tennis court were moments of bonding and laughter, offering a unique opportunity to connect beyond the confines of our busy lives.
Yet, Lilian's newfound TV show interest introduces an element of unpredictability into our plans. The potential for future conflicts between her television schedule and our tennis sessions is a genuine concern. Balancing personal interests and commitments is a delicate art, and as friends, it's essential that we navigate this terrain with sensitivity and understanding.
It's worth noting that Lilian's choice is entirely valid, and I respect her autonomy in selecting her preferred form of leisure. After all, the pursuit of personal interests and passions is an essential aspect of self-care and personal growth. The challenge lies in finding a harmonious balance between individual pursuits and shared activities, such as our tennis games.
In conclusion, Lilian's enthusiastic exploration of a captivating TV show has prompted me to reflect on the dynamics of our friendship and shared pastimes. While I have reservations about the potential impact on our tennis outings, I also recognize the significance of allowing each other the freedom to pursue our interests and passions. It is my hope that we can continue to cherish our moments on and off the tennis court, finding a harmonious equilibrium that accommodates both our personal indulgences and our shared experiences.
This revelation led me to ponder the potential ramifications of Lilian's newfound fixation. I couldn't help but wonder whether this alluring drama might gradually consume more and more of her time. The reason for my concern was not solely rooted in her decision to prioritize the show over our planned tennis outing, but rather in the broader implications of such a choice.
In a world teeming with countless forms of entertainment and diversion, one's choice of leisure activities can significantly influence their daily routine and long-term priorities. Lilian's preference for the TV show, while perfectly valid, could potentially reshape the way she allocates her time and attention. As with any engrossing narrative, the desire to unravel the mysteries and developments of the show's storyline may lead to extended viewing sessions, ultimately diminishing the time available for other pursuits.
The act of watching television, though often enjoyable and culturally enriching, can sometimes blur the boundaries between leisure and preoccupation. It's not uncommon for individuals to find themselves inadvertently drawn into the enticing world of a series, causing hours to slip by unnoticed. While this immersive experience can offer a welcome respite from the demands of daily life, it can also disrupt established routines and commitments.
In Lilian's case, her eagerness to indulge in the show raises questions about the future dynamics of our shared activities. Tennis, a recreational sport we both enjoy, had been a source of not only physical activity but also social interaction and shared experiences. Our games on the tennis court were moments of bonding and laughter, offering a unique opportunity to connect beyond the confines of our busy lives.
Yet, Lilian's newfound TV show interest introduces an element of unpredictability into our plans. The potential for future conflicts between her television schedule and our tennis sessions is a genuine concern. Balancing personal interests and commitments is a delicate art, and as friends, it's essential that we navigate this terrain with sensitivity and understanding.
It's worth noting that Lilian's choice is entirely valid, and I respect her autonomy in selecting her preferred form of leisure. After all, the pursuit of personal interests and passions is an essential aspect of self-care and personal growth. The challenge lies in finding a harmonious balance between individual pursuits and shared activities, such as our tennis games.
In conclusion, Lilian's enthusiastic exploration of a captivating TV show has prompted me to reflect on the dynamics of our friendship and shared pastimes. While I have reservations about the potential impact on our tennis outings, I also recognize the significance of allowing each other the freedom to pursue our interests and passions. It is my hope that we can continue to cherish our moments on and off the tennis court, finding a harmonious equilibrium that accommodates both our personal indulgences and our shared experiences.
See also
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