royal showdown
I’ve watched the first six episodes of The Princess Royal and I like it a lot. A big part could be my absolute biasedness towards Zhang Linghe, who I find handsome and endearing. I’m aware there are comments about his big teeth and acting; but what can I say. I love the way he looks onscreen, love his pleasant voice, love the way he carries himself in period clothes, and just love his personality in variety shows. He has good-natured charm that is part dorky, part braniac. He’s fast becoming my Chinese equivalent of Nam Joo Hyuk. To my surprise and relief, Zhao Jinmai is way more watchable here than in Amidst A Snowstorm Of Love and Li Rong is a likeable character.
Back to the drama. The pace isn’t draggy, and it doesn’t take long for Li Rong and Pei Wenxuan to figure out they are both reincarnated in the same lifetime over a game of chess. Kinda love how they are old 40-forty-year-old jaded souls in their 20-year-old bodies. Their snarky age-related comments and past marriage grievances are funny and witty. Amid the humour, there are the quiet reflections of their past life, past decisions, past regrets, past happiness. There’s also the court intrigue, which is decently presented. There’s a modern edge to the production even though it is set in historical times.
Pei Wenxuan is a stoic, intelligent, and practical person and stands by the practice of “Never complain, never explain”. There were many instances in their previous life he could have explained his actions and feelings to Li Rong; but he chose not to do so for various reasons, which led to major misunderstandings that resulted in a breakdown of their marriage in its early stage. Wenxuan went on to become the Prime Minister, supporting Li Rong and her younger brother’s ascension to the throne. They remained political alliances, but led separate lives. Li Rong ended up having a live-in lover/companion for 17 years – albeit a castrated one. Wenxuan tolerated their relationship until the very end, which I found fascinating.
Anyway, I hope the drama keeps going as it is, because it’s just fun to watch and boasts a visually appealing set. And of course, Zhang Linghe.
this is “coming soon” to Viki. I had already noted it as something I’d like to watch.
I don’t know if Season 2 of Lost you Forever will be on Viki right away but I will most likely do a month long subscription just to watch that on whatever channel I can! That remains one of my favorite dramas ever.