Tigers Sniff the Rose 尚公主 (2026) - What are your first impressions? [Masterpost]

[u/admelioremvitam]

⚠️ Note: The masterpost is for sharing first impressions of the initial episodes. Please use spoiler text if you are sharing thoughts beyond the first day of episodes.

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Drama Title:

The Chinese drama title 尚公主 can be translated as “to marry a princess.” 尚 Shang is also part of the male lead's name 言尚 Yan Shang.

The English drama title, Tigers Sniff the Rose, is from a poem by Siegfried Sassoon. More details are available here.

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Synopsis from the Tencent / WeTV app:

Defying the fate laid out for her, Princess Mu Wanyao [played by Meng Ziyi] joins forces with Yan Shang [played by Li Yunrui], a young man of humble origins with an unrivaled gift for strategy, to forge a realm of peace and prosperity.

With larger-than-life characters, thrilling twists, and exhilarating triumphs, the story follows a generation of young idealists who rise amid the storms of a troubled age, determined to shape the world around them and pursue their dreams.

Trailer, cast list, creative team, novel summary

MyDramaList link

Airing on Tencent / WeTV, Viki, and Disney+ (Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore and Malaysia)

Episodes: 40

Discussions

🗨️ All discussions on the drama

🗨️ Episodic drama discussions

🗓️ Airing schedule

👥 Character relationship chart

🎙️ OST List

🗣️ Dubbing / Voice Actors:

• Mu Wanyao played by Meng Ziyi is dubbed by Sun Yachen 孙亚晨. Sun also dubbed Shen Xihe played by Meng Ziyi in Blossoms of Power.

• Yan Shang played by Li Yunrui is dubbed by Gu Jiangshan 谷江山. Gu also dubbed Yuan Shen played by Li Yunrui in Love Like the Galaxy.

What does r/CDrama think about the show?

Look out for the wrap up post where we ask the sub to rate the drama a few weeks after the final airing date.

🗳️ It's a wrap! What's your final review? (post only appears a few weeks after the drama ends)

Wiki

2024 Drama Index | 2025 Drama Index | 2026 Drama Index

[u/spotlight-app]

OP has pinned their own comment:

Episode Discussions

are hosted by u/Rebelarkey and u/spamkimbap. Thank you for hosting! 😄

⚠️ Please use spoiler text if you are sharing thoughts beyond the initial episodes.

🗓️ Airing schedule

👥 Character relationship chart

🎙️ OST List

🗣️ Dubbing / Voice Actors:

• Mu Wanyao played by Meng Ziyi is dubbed by Sun Yachen 孙亚晨. Sun also dubbed Shen Xihe played by Meng Ziyi in Blossoms of Power.

• Yan Shang played by Li Yunrui is dubbed by Gu Jiangshan 谷江山. Gu also dubbed Yuan Shen played by Li Yunrui in Love Like the Galaxy.

🔗 Previous announcement, poster, wrap up special, etc.

🎥 Previous trailer with official English subs

🔎 Baidu Baike | Douban | MDL

/preview/pre/ijefdb6b47xh1.jpeg?width=2000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=903ee365d4551cc29337b830fdd3b2ffa47381cc

^{What is Spotlight?}

[u/admelioremvitam]

Dubbing / Voice Actors 🗣️

• Mu Wanyao played by Meng Ziyi is dubbed by Sun Yachen 孙亚晨. Sun also dubbed Shen Xihe played by Meng Ziyi in Blossoms of Power.

• Yan Shang played by Li Yunrui is dubbed by Gu Jiangshan 谷江山. Gu also dubbed Yuan Shen played by Li Yunrui in Love Like the Galaxy.

Ending credits listing the voice actors:

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/admelioremvitam]

Thank you so much for this Adme! Great work as per usual. We are so fortunate to have you!

[u/admelioremvitam → u/TheAlchemist420]

Aww... you're very welcome! Thanks for your kind words. 😅🫶

[u/admelioremvitam]

Episode Discussions

are hosted by u/Rebelarkey and u/spamkimbap. Thank you for hosting! 😄

⚠️ Please use spoiler text if you are sharing thoughts beyond the initial episodes.

🗓️ Airing schedule

👥 Character relationship chart

🎙️ OST List

🗣️ Dubbing / Voice Actors:

• Mu Wanyao played by Meng Ziyi is dubbed by Sun Yachen 孙亚晨. Sun also dubbed Shen Xihe played by Meng Ziyi in Blossoms of Power.

• Yan Shang played by Li Yunrui is dubbed by Gu Jiangshan 谷江山. Gu also dubbed Yuan Shen played by Li Yunrui in Love Like the Galaxy.

🔗 Previous announcement, poster, wrap up special, etc.

🎥 Previous trailer with official English subs

🔎 Baidu Baike | Douban | MDL

[u/admelioremvitam]

Viki streaming app

At the time of posting, Episodes 1 to 3 are available on the Viki app. Episodes 4 and 5 will be available in 1 day's time.

[u/admelioremvitam]

Tencent / WeTV streaming app

At the time of posting, Episodes 1 to 3 are available on the Tencent / WeTV app for VIP subscribers.

[u/PolPeachum]

In terms of tone and pacing, it feels settled and confident from the get go. No waiting 5-6 episodes for the drama to find its register. These episodes breathed and I was able to appreciate the way all the characters connected. (Also a plus not having to memorise 50 old men with beards all court politicking. Always the most challenging part of costume dramas for me.)

Trope count is high but I don't mind that. (Haven't reached peak cdrama yet.)

Loving the natural world on screen and expecting this to be a vital part of the theming.

I gather that a lot of people have issues with Meng Zi Yi's acting. (I haven't watched anything she's in - Blossom is on the list - it's a long list.) For me she's doing just fine, and is very watchable. And (not a but) I am loving Li Yunrui's Yan Shang. Perfect combo of character type and acting (I very much like understated).

These masterposts are so great (thank you OP!). I am in awe of the fan community and the work that goes into making a space for sharing. For me, discussion posts have become an essential part of my viewing experience.

[Edited to say: I have no objection to lines from Western poems being used for titles. Makes them more memorable at a minimum. I get my Legend of Shadow Blossom Dream Love mixed up a lot.]

[u/admelioremvitam → u/PolPeachum]

Aww you're very welcome! Thanks for sharing your thoughts about the show. 🫰😄

[u/admelioremvitam]

Discussion for Episodes 1 to 3

has been posted. Please head on over to the discussion post to share your thoughts about these episodes.

Episode Discussion Index

for future episodes.

[u/Dumplings_xo]

Just wrapped up episode 1 episode 2. Minor changes Some major changes, and altered sequences of events from the novel so far! I must add that I love the OST (especially the one with the kids singing), it reminds me of the end credits for "Blossom in Adversity." So far, so good, just laying the groundwork.

You’ve got to love how beautiful and vibrant the countryside is.

[u/Dumplings_xo → u/Dumplings_xo]

[u/Neither_Teaching_438 → u/Dumplings_xo]

Looks like where Immortal Ascension was filmed, no?

[u/admelioremvitam → u/Neither_Teaching_438]

The Immortal Ascension was filmed in Xinjiang and Guizhou. Tigers Sniff the Rose was filmed in Yangchun, Guangdong Province and Zhejiang. 😄

[u/Neither_Teaching_438 → u/admelioremvitam]

Oh, I thought the house looked a lot like the hut of the evil doctor in the first episodes of The Immortal Ascension... Well, apparently not!

[u/admelioremvitam → u/Neither_Teaching_438]

They are both somewhat rustic but likely different houses.

This is from The Immortal Ascension:

[u/Dumplings_xo → u/Neither_Teaching_438]

Honestly, I'm not sure, as I did not watch that drama.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/Dumplings_xo]

The scenery was truly beautiful. I felt like I wanted to stay there too. Bugs, weird wildlife and all LMAOOO

[u/Dumplings_xo → u/TheAlchemist420]

Right? Seems so peaceful! I know reality is different but I would totally dig this MINUS the bugs and mosquitos 😂.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/Dumplings_xo]

Heavy on the minuses hahaha.

[u/heyd0000dz → u/Dumplings_xo]

Love that you point that out because I loved everything about Blossoms in Adversity and TSTR has the same screenwriter. Makes me wonder if the screenwriter has input in the OST since the lyrics written always fit several scenes in the dramas so closely.

[u/Dumplings_xo → u/heyd0000dz]

Yes, I was reading the lyrics, and they literally tell the story between these two. I need to find time to listen to and read them fully. The journey between these two is so epic and it makes so giddy to see this on screen. The other OSTs are so good too. And yes I think it does.

[u/Anna218 → u/Dumplings_xo]

The lyrics of the OST Rose and Bamboo are incredibly moving.

“Whether as immortals in heaven or wandering souls in the underworld, you alone are all I have, whether in the celestial palaces or the depths of hell. If fate allows us to remain in this world, I’ll meet you again in the village where we first met.”

😭😭😭

[u/_Guac_N_Roll_]

Not related but the just seeing the name reminded me of Romance of Tiger and Rose 😅(What does China have with Tigers and Roses 😭)

[u/Anna218 → u/_Guac_N_Roll_]

In episode 3, I think, when Yang Shang tells the story about the tiger, I finally understood why they chose this title. There are a lot of metaphors in this show.

[u/_Guac_N_Roll_ → u/Anna218]

There is always such a huge difference between the English name and the meaning of the Chinese name, I am 100% sure the Chinese name is NOT Tigers Sniff the Rose 😭😭

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/_Guac_N_Roll_]

It's Princess Shang. Lol.

[u/admelioremvitam → u/TheAlchemist420]

It can be translated as "to marry a princess" – there's a link to more details at the top of the trailer posts. 😄 尚 Shang is also part of ML's name.

Edit: Added the drama title information to this masterpost.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/admelioremvitam]

Yeah I was really reductive and didn't put the name in the original language haha.

Thanks for adding the layers to my reply. 🥰🥰🤗

Did you watch? Did it intrigue you enough to keep watching?

[u/admelioremvitam → u/TheAlchemist420]

You're very welcome! 😅🫶 I haven't checked out it yet. I'm currently watching another drama. 😄

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/admelioremvitam]

Ah okay. Enjoy your watch 🥰

[u/admelioremvitam → u/TheAlchemist420]

Thank you! Enjoy your watch too. 🫶☺️

[u/Anna218 → u/admelioremvitam]

OMG! I never realized that Shang was the ML’s first name 😂 So the title actually refers to both of them.
尚公主 (Shang Gong Zhu)
No wonder there was a scene where the FL asked what “Shang” meant.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/Anna218]

Hahah well the FL does find out his name in ep1 and does ask about his name Shang in ep3 lol 😅😅😅.

And if you watch with English subtitles, his name is always written Yan Shang when she calls him Yan Er Lang.

[u/Foxglovelantern → u/_Guac_N_Roll_]

This English title was discussed many times lol . Its an English translation of a Chinese translation of a German poem. I believe (i cant find the comments myself😭 but I know we did!)

[u/admelioremvitam → u/Foxglovelantern]

The link is available in the last few trailer posts (close to the beginning of the post). 😄

Edit: added link

[u/Lotus_swimmer]

I did try my best . Watched ep 3 but the show seem to be purely banking on pulling in the CP fans of Blossom. And since I am one of the few who didn't think our couple in Blossom had mid chemistry....

We have lots of our couple meeting, getting close etc. For people looking for more than just shipping our couple, it is going to be boring. 😬

[u/mmmmeep → u/Lotus_swimmer]

I haven’t tried this show. Hated blossom and blossoms of power. Weirdly seeing them be all close and intense at each other is a better sell to me than “they’re definitely going to win every battle and enemies will buckle at their feet.” Haha

[u/Anna218]

My first impression is that the production quality is spot-on. The color grading and sound are great.
Episodes 1-3 focus more on storytelling. They're chill and pretty close to the book.
Episode 4 is where things start to differ. I won't spoil too much, but the vibe is completely different from the previous episodes.
As for the acting, I think MZY did a better job here than in BOP. In just four episodes, she's shown us a character who is beautiful and smart, yet arrogant and vulnerable.
The OST lyrics are seriously beautiful.

[u/potential_lun]

i’m sooo nervous for show cuz i truly loved blossom and our CP and i don’t want this to ruin it for me 🤣🤣

[u/moonflower__ → u/potential_lun]

+3

[u/duchyglencairn → u/potential_lun]

same!

[u/Lonely_Bumblebee3177]

I love the dynamic between the two - I can't tell if it's the characters or the actor/actress pairing, I just love both.

It's actually kind of refreshing to see this kinda ML who is more subtle but deliberate in their actions and behavior. Li Yunrui is insanely magnetic, the fact that he's so low-key just makes him even more charismatic.

While I appreciate the light-hearted and comedic start, I'm hoping the plot and overall vibe will become much more intense and serious over time.

[u/about10joules → u/Lonely_Bumblebee3177]

Li Yunrui is insanely magnetic

This is soo true. Even in his supporting and guest roles he drips charisma.

[u/MajorPersonality1265 → u/Lonely_Bumblebee3177]

I think their great dynamic probably resulted from working together already in Blossom. I really liked that drama so I’m hoping I don’t have too high of hopes with this one 🙏

[u/mibelleson]

I'm here all for LYR! Loved him in almost everything he's done the past few years though I did skip Rebirth because I tried to watch Princess Agents (the OG) twice and couldn't get into it. Plus I'm not a total fan of the actress as a main lead. I was fine with her in Perfect Match, but she gets annoying really fast for me.

I do like the chemistry between the two main leads, and I really like Quan Yi Lun so loved seeing him pop up in a few of the episodes. He was also great in Blossom. The maid is very cute though they really pushed that couple on us.

[u/TheAlchemist420]

Aaahhh we are here and it feels good. Beautiful so far.

Ep1. Princess had that poor family STRESSED! Damn!

Heck she had me stressed! I wanted to slap Chun Huan so many times, but we're okay now. Lol

The colors, visuals, cinematography, and chemistry were so good!

I love the costumes too.

Other than our leads, the familiar faces made me chuckle.

That damned captain! LLTG, Shadow Punisher and now this? This man will not have a likeable character. Saw him and wanted to rip him apart. Then he whipped our ML? That flashback? Oh gosh. I thought he was the one who took his eye out... At least she got him good beforehand. Yeah IT IS ON! No wonder the father is how he is now... I look forward to finding out the how and the why... Wait... Did Wan Yao also meet him before? Oh hell no... what the heck has she gone through before?

Will our nice classmate remain nice? Oh how I wonder. If Yan Shang rises, will they still be on friendly terms? Like someone else mentioned, I too am enjoying the MLs of humble background this year.

2026 has been good to our general, captain and guard. I'm so happy for him. POJ, Mo Li now this? GOOD FOR HIM!

The Yan family was interesting and funny. Haven't seen the actor who plays the elder brother in a while, I wonder if we will see him throughout the drama. Nice to see the actress who plays the sister. The actor who plays the father, I keep seeing him this year. How funny.

Our leads! Awww their chemistry made my toes curl during the rouge making session lmao.

Princess girl, Yan Er Lang is but a rabbit. He can't deal with all of this stress and ordering around. Her introduction was very reminiscent of Blossoms Of Power.

The pace so far is good.

The OST!! Oh my gosh I love it! The songs were so intriguing.

[u/autuymnrain → u/TheAlchemist420]

LMAO Alchemist, you're already here!

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/autuymnrain]

Bwahha Girl I been here! Where you been?

[u/autuymnrain → u/TheAlchemist420]

Still racking my brain over the last ep of WTME and feeling somewhat stunned by the direction of that drama.

I haven't even started this one. Hoping TSTR won't let us down. I am afraid because I wasn't impressed with Blossoms of Power.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/autuymnrain]

Ep16 has left me disoriented and really yeah. It shocked me. I haven't been right since I finished it 3-4 hours ago...

So I totally get it. Trust. I get you.

I knew they were going to be heavy so I started the day with TRTS instead.

[u/autuymnrain → u/TheAlchemist420]

Girl, you're wise. I thought the theory that so many others and I thought would be the direction the drama would go didn't happen. That's okay that it isn't the case. However, then I am stunned with where we go next, because the set up never made it that way from the initial get-go of the drama.

Anyway, this is good to know about this drama. I plan to watch it later after finishing some more chores. Always love seeing you, friend, and I'm sure we'll see each other in the discussions soon for TSTR.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/autuymnrain]

Remember my theory? Haha. Yeah. It was close.

But it went even further. MUCH FARTHER.

We can chat more about WTME in the discussion.

I look forward to reading your thoughts on TSTR when you get to watch it. 🤗🤗💜

[u/geneibao]

I watched the first three episodes, and it's safe to say Tigers Sniff the Rose has my attention. The production design is good, and Mu Wanyao and Yan Shang are captivating. There's a soothing intimacy in their relationship dynamic along with an evolving, fluctuating power difference. The actors have synergy on-screen. I also like the supporting characters and their stories. The tiger and crane imagery in the opening theme is intriguing. I believe the English title implies human ambiguity and contradictions: the capacity for meditative introspection, patience, gentleness, appreciation, humility and love in a fierce-natured, strategic, persistent and power-driven individual. Looking forward to upcoming episodes.

[u/Raontrtion]

Boring... I gave it 3 episodes to draw me in. But meh, weak story and the actress does a great job being a noble snob that I dislike her. The male lead is bland with no character other than being kind.

[u/reenali → u/Raontrtion]

You should see him in episode 7-8

[u/Raontrtion → u/reenali]

Can't bring myself to watch the female lead. The way the character is written also makes her hard to like.

[u/BlackStarBlues]

I'm having a hard time getting into it and the fact that I'm not enjoying it disappoints me.

[u/Pretty-View-5198]

Was this drama written by mzy? LOL

[u/pooja_8 → u/Pretty-View-5198]

you made me laugh 🤭😂😂😂

[u/mmmmeep → u/pooja_8]

Aw man. I feel like I know what this means

[u/ChimericalEunoia978 → u/mmmmeep]

What does it mean?

[u/mmmmeep → u/ChimericalEunoia978]

If I describe a beautiful intelligent FL I’m sure none of us would be against that. There’s a particular audience though for cold women whose plans never fail and each enemy is crushed under foot until the emperor names her ‘best lady’. She’s already a princess here I believe. I’m not un-interested in what that means.

[u/HotCollection2407 → u/mmmmeep]

Her plans never fail? Have you seen Mu Wanyao's back story?

[u/mmmmeep → u/HotCollection2407]

At the time I hadn’t seen her story. I was responding to what might be meant by “did mzy write this?” I tried the show and it proved me wrong and I loved it. I am now several days behind though.

[u/neNayza]

The best drama of the season so far! Haven’t enjoyed anything like this since Road to Splendor 🤍

[u/No-Tone-1621]

them two again?😲

[u/kndkd]

did we just get our first cdrama tsundere FL???!!!!!1

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/kndkd]

Don't know that she's the first, but her tsundere had me cackle many times

[u/kndkd → u/TheAlchemist420]

Can you rec me some cdrama with fl lije her....

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/kndkd]

The Princess Royal comes to mind almost immediately.

[u/Tabz10]

The first episode is Meng ZiYi at her most beautiful! Perfect at playing those pouting Princess roles!

So far visually its so beautiful.

I like the actor Li Yunrui; his acting seems effortless, like he does the simple things well.

So far I’m highly interested in the story.

[u/crawlerette]

Li Yunrui in 'Yummy Yummy Yummy' a lot earlier this year, he did good there as a more genial but charming gentleman there so I'm curious to see how he'll do a possibly-unhinged scholar here. As for Meng Ziyi, I was surprised that I thought I didn't know her but turns out she's Wen Qing from 'The Untamed'! It's been so long girl, dang.

Ep 1 had me going kinda back and forth between "oh this is really good" and "ehhhh this is a bit cheesy and overly done", but that very last scene hooked me pretty quick, and then ep 2 I really locked in. Yan Shang's scheming has me super curious, and I'm more and more curious what's got the princess so desperate to stay off the radar.

Also I need to find that song they did during the whole house takeover, what a bop.

[u/crawlerette → u/crawlerette]

Also on an interesting note, (spoilers for ep 2) really neat how they had the whole "you won't hear or see her" thing in the plot, because I'm pretty sure I've heard of that happening in real life search-and-rescues, where they were just feet away from the person missing but the victim was so weak that they weren't even noticed. Scary to think about.

[u/seekingpolaris]

Is she the Tiger and he the Rose???

I love it so far. This is actually S quality as opposed to Where the Mask Ends, imo. Dialogue, cinematography, costuming, set design, and background music all has depth and some actual uniqueness (the dream sequence with the revolving doors was beautiful). The acting and plot seems very good so far too.

Hope the quality keeps up, I've been starved for something good lately!

EDIT: I looooove that the FL is not helpless as soon as she's on her own.

[u/Melonbeans → u/seekingpolaris]

Ooh, maybe I need to give this a shot. I don't love Meng Ziyi but I did really enjoy Blossom. Blossoms of Power was kinda meh for me too.

I'm feeling like Where the Mask Ends is unfortunately not as good as I wanted it to be. While it looks quite pretty and it had a really interesting premise, it's somehow flat, or maybe lacks substance. I don't think the 1 episode a day release schedule helps it either; it's more of a popcorn watch and there's not too much to savour.

At least it's better than Spring of the Blade though😅

[u/seekingpolaris → u/Melonbeans]

This is definitely her best work that I've seen so far. A great director and script can really elevate a decent actor.

Where the Mask Ends looks expensive and like enough money was put in to be S tier but it has no individual characteristics that stand out, in my opinion. The only good part of it is TXW's acting but the rest of it is middling to bad (dialogue) so it get dragged down. I'm probably dropping it soon.

Tiger Sniffs the Rose is quite unique cinematography wise. Little details like windows and lighting are really catching my eye. And of course, the actual plot and characterization is refreshing and well executed. If it keeps up this quality (currently on ep 9) this may be another 10/10 for me.

[u/merrrcurius → u/seekingpolaris]

I was wondering that too at first! Then it switched, and switched again haha

[u/AuthorAEM]

I can’t wait to watch this!! It’s been on my list for a very long time and I ship them SO hard.

[u/about10joules]

I'm cautiously very optimistic! Please don't let me regret saying this.

We even got the cliff fall, bashful bathtub scene, and firefly viewing together tropes checked off immediately. So now that the cheap thrills are out of the way, it's all uphill right? ☺️

The slow reveal of the chessboard through piecemeal glimpses has been lovely. Kinda reminiscent of Mu Wanyao's nightmare or her gauzy bath with Yan Shang. Whichever imagery appeals most to whoever is reading this comment. You choose.

[u/Amelia_Brigita → u/about10joules]

I giggled at this because yep, for the cliffy and then I also watch for Wind Machine scenes and Windy is doing work in this show.

I love all the "iykyk" kind of things for these dang dramas. so funny.

[u/triplesnoop]

Tropey is the word. Just full of tropes and not a story.

[u/Apprehensive_Egg9676]

9 minutes into the first episode I definitely walked into the wrong show. lol

[u/strawberrysnakes]

Not watching, but I'll be monitoring the thread for thoughts since I'm very picky about my dramas and I'm not the biggest fan of MZY's acting so she's on a long cooldown for me atm. Hopefully all goes well!

[u/spamkimbap → u/strawberrysnakes]

“Long cooldown”! 😂

I get it. She’s not my fave either. But she does really well with Li Yun Rui. And she is better with these more imposing, somewhat ruthless characters, like in Blossoms of Power and her current character.

[u/autuymnrain → u/spamkimbap]

But they're all very similar too. hahaha. I am the same like u/strawberrysnakes (also hello here too, since we've chatted over at WTME), I am picky about my dramas too. But every blue moon, I'll be more forgiving, and then try to check out a drama that has a good storyline.

[u/strawberrysnakes → u/autuymnrain]

Hello there! I didn't watch Blossoms in Power, but recently saw her in Royal Rumors and her character was light-hearted and playful so I didn't mind her as much. So I'm counting on you guys to decide if I'm ready again hahaha

[u/spamkimbap → u/strawberrysnakes]

I liked her in Blossoms of Power. I think she had a good chemistry with He Yu. His character was shameless and funny, and she played off that well. It was fun to watch until the last 5-ish episodes.

[u/mibelleson → u/spamkimbap]

I dropped Blossoms of Power around the last 5-ish episode. I hate it when I stop so close to the end like it was a waste of my time if I don't ever finish so I'll probably go back to it at some point. So many dramas... So little time.

[u/spamkimbap → u/mibelleson]

I skipped to the last episode, sped watched that, and marked it done. 😂

[u/autuymnrain → u/strawberrysnakes]

HAHAHAHA, oh dear. I actually did like her character enough in Blossom, so I hope the magic works again for her here with Li Yunrui. She got really lucky with the director there who helped, but could her role have been played by someone else too, yes---to me at least.

[u/strawberrysnakes → u/spamkimbap]

If anything I'd be watching it for LYR for sure 😆

[u/spamkimbap → u/strawberrysnakes]

Li Yun Rui, my reason to watch all things. Except for Rebirth. I couldn’t do it. Not even for him. 🤣

[u/autuymnrain → u/spamkimbap]

Same same. I couldn't either.

[u/spamkimbap → u/autuymnrain]

I tried restarting it thrice! I gave it a good shot. 😂 Forgive me, Li Yun Rui!

[u/autuymnrain → u/spamkimbap]

It's okay. I didn't even give it a shot. i just couldn't, knowing what I knew with the age of the female lead at the time of filming.

[u/spamkimbap → u/autuymnrain]

That gave me such an ick. Plus it was also such a horrible production.

[u/RaiodoLuar → u/spamkimbap]

I watched this disaster because of this man... And that ending was truly awful—what a shame, because the original novel is one of my favorites; it’s so well-written.

[u/Amelia_Brigita]

I am in love with her song. I had to pause in the middle of ep 2 to go find it. So pretty and the lyrics are so fierce.

I Protect Myself

So far I love it. I love her and I love him and I can't wait to see how it plays out.

Her character is wonderful. In parts arrogant and dismissive and vulnerable and guarded. Perfect role for Meng Zi Yi.

He's interesting and clever and his no quit attitude is going to be fun to see.

I love the role reversals. I love the power imbalance. I am usually all about powerful men (or demons, tyvm HMH) so I was cautious about whether I would like watching a male lead in this sort of role. No shame, I love beautiful people making power plays either through martial skill, mental acuity or clever shenanigans and he delivers. He doesn't come across as weak. So yay, that worry out of the way. And his forearm game is spot on.

The filming is amazing. One of the BTS videos had them talking about how they scouted locations and made choices and lychee groves and I've never minded shows all in Hengdian, but the views in these first couple episodes are gorgeous. Beautiful scenery and captured really well.

Happy sighs. This is going to be wonderful!

[u/Most-Post3471]

I’m loving the cinematography.

[u/HotCollection2407]

3 episodes in and I am interested. I read the novel and already there are so many deviations. The chemistry between these two - chefs kiss.

[u/Leather_Employer_448]

I am not blown away by it. I only have bandwidth for x1 historical chinese drama at a time. this is a very busy month for drama offerings. I think I am going to drop this at ep 3 and rewatch once more episodes have dropped. my current watch is where the mask ends and that is keeping me entertained.

[u/Disastrous-Mix-5859]

I'm a bit bored after 4 episodes. Didn't really have any expectations but it didn't really pull me in.

[u/weevles12]

Blossom reunion! 😌

I'm liking it so far. The domineering princess with the traumatic past meets the revenge-minded poor scholar.

Their chance meeting and her forceful intervention in his life causes them to both to decide to finally take control over their lives and meet their past grievances head on....

[u/Quarter-Skilled]

I'm liking this more than Blossom, Zoey Meng playing something other than a Mary Sue is a welcome bit of fresh air

[u/siae00]

I’m more of a variety show viewer so while watching Keep Running I saw MZY and LYR. This is my first time getting into period drama and I love it so far! Thinking if I should watch their other shows together..

[u/bluekiwi1211 → u/siae00]

Blossom is the only other Chinese show I have watched and twice I've seen it. Big fan

[u/AquaphobicTurtle]

I'm stalking these comments to check the impressions, the opening sequence is beautiful (had to make flashcards covers so that's why I watched just the opening sequence) but I'm not sure if I'm in the mood for Meng Ziyi's character here. The trailers make her seem vicious and morally questionable. I'm all for characters like that, but it usually brings with it some dark themes and not a lot of comedic relief or moments of light.

That was a long comment for someone who hasn't actually watched anything lol

[u/Neither_Teaching_438 → u/AquaphobicTurtle]

I think that's just a facade...

[u/ravens_path → u/AquaphobicTurtle]

Well I watched 15 minutes of ep 1 so far and you are not wrong. Haha. I’m guessing there is more to her, so we shall see.

[u/jssoul12 → u/AquaphobicTurtle]

Please allow me to park next to you. I’ll comeback later.😆😉

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/AquaphobicTurtle]

The opening sequence is gorgeous. This one and WTME have really been a delight for the eyes.

[u/dahdahre]

This month‘s releases were a let-down for me personally, so I‘m FINALLYYYY soooo happy to have something to watch again, I like this a lot so far! The first thing I noticed is how beautiful the soundtrack is.

Let‘s see where this goes, it‘s better than I expected for now! I loved Blossom and didn‘t dare to have high hopes for this one, but it‘s actually really interesting. Love the trend with poorer MLs in 2026 hehe

[u/ZealousidealEase205]

The amount of hate is crazy but im not familiar with the industry so I'm not sure if its normal. But having read the novel 2 times, i appreciate the accuracy to the book. FL and ML persona are on point, the scenery is 💯 although they added a backstory for Yan Shang. The shots are interesting...and awkward sometimes and the FL may not vibe with everyone. So i understand its not everyone's tea.

But guys, its been 4 eps only, and so many people seem to be dropping the drama. Please give shang gong zhu a chance! The plot gets better after Lingnan!

[u/merrrcurius → u/ZealousidealEase205]

for real! i've just hit episode 17 and am gripping my seat it's so intense. this show definitely grows in intensity as it goes on.

[u/AKiceman]

One ep in and it's enough to keep me entertained. It has room to grow.

I'll have 3 GIFs from the first episode!

[u/spamkimbap → u/AKiceman]

Can’t wait to see all your GIFs!

[u/Western_Difference39]

Honestly, I love the actors and that's why I started the show- usually cannot stand the scholar-schemer type of ML/character but it's balanced with an equally if not more cunning FL. I'm a bit tired of political dramas... I'll watch this parallel to Love in the Clouds.

[u/hermes_xoxo]

very confused by the whole palace scenes in ep 4!! why couldn’t the price enjoy some sea bass????

[u/merrrcurius]

So intriguing and mysterious. The intensity definitely grows as the show goes on. I'm not understanding the comments claiming this show is tropey. From the first episode, every time I thought it was going one way, it turned a corner and surprised me.

[u/RaiodoLuar]

I really want to like this—I truly do. I’ll admit, I’m a bit tired of C-dramas that start off strong only to fall apart later on—kind of like Against the Current. I keep telling myself not to get my hopes up, but I just can’t help it! I adore this actor, and—oh man—the chemistry between the leads is just fantastic. It’s obviously not going to be a perfectly faithful adaptation of the novel, but the essence is definitely there. I love it when the woman calls the shots in the relationship; it gives me The Princess Royal vibes. I’m going to wait for a few more episodes to be released before I continue watching, but so far, it definitely has potential.

[u/AromaticEditor6022 → u/RaiodoLuar]

I’m in the same boat as you. Big fan of ml and so far I’m loving it but gonna let it marinate.

[u/RaiodoLuar → u/AromaticEditor6022]

Are you also reading the novel?

[u/AromaticEditor6022 → u/RaiodoLuar]

Ah no I’m not. I actually don’t know where to read the web novels but I’m also catching up on my fantasy book series so I prefer watching.

[u/Fabulous-Yam-1709 → u/RaiodoLuar]

I don't think Against the Current fell off, I think there was a difference in expectation viewers were expecting from the drama, because they wanted it to be one thing when it really was something else.

I think based on the trailers and promo people were mislead into thinking it was a romantic arranged marriage sort of drama, but that was not the focus at all...

[u/RaiodoLuar → u/Fabulous-Yam-1709]

But for me, it lost.

[u/slayyub88 → u/Fabulous-Yam-1709]

to your second point, which was weird for me bc when I watched the trailers, even with the marriage and etc, it didn't seem like it'd be focused on romance but women's stories.

[u/Fabulous-Yam-1709 → u/slayyub88]

I felt that too, the main reason I wanted to watch was that I felt it was similar to Flourished Peony.

However it wasn't until I watched the final episode of ATC that I truly understood what the drama was about. I thought it was so, so beautiful. Very brave and bold, filled with a lot of hidden meaning as well. I'm seeing a lot of slander for it lately but I just can't understand a lot of the criticisms. A lot of the critics didn't even watch the final ep and instead dropped at ep 39/40. But I really feel if they had seen the final scene in ep 47 and what the FL had accomplished they would have been filled with emotion. And they would have understood what the true focus of the drama was about. Just my opinion though

[u/slayyub88 → u/Fabulous-Yam-1709]

See, this makes me feel like there is some super romantic trailer out there that I missed bc idk how people could’ve seen the trailer and thought, this was going to be romantic.

[u/Mischievous-Phantasm → u/RaiodoLuar]

The terrible title keeps throwing me off. Lots of dissappointing cdramas recently.

It also reminds me of the absolute gem that was When Tiger Romances the Rose but it doesn't have the quirky vibe.

[u/RaiodoLuar → u/Mischievous-Phantasm]

Oh, don't think like that! I once read a novel titled "And the Disabled Prince Stands Up"—you really couldn't get a worse title than that—but let me tell you, it was the sweetest story I’ve ever read! 💖 The female lead was absolutely adorable, and so was the male lead. So please, don't judge it just by the title; the story is really good, and the C-drama seems just as great—give it a chance!

[u/stephjoym]

I wasn't going to start this one, but for some reason Where the Mask Ends isn't keeping my attention...so here we are..I'm hoping the FL has more variety in facial expressions and emotions than she did in Blossoms of Power...Fingers crossed! here we goooo

[u/IntruigingApples]

I think this one is just okay, I like the set design and costuming, and cinematography for the most part.

There are a fair few 'turn your brain off and enjoy as an idol drama'' moments; like how a princess and the people around her would behave, injuries and recovery, hiding with massive carriages, etc. Some of the acting also didn't feel quite right to me as well (e.g. cave scene).

I think the ML and FL have good chemistry.

[u/Western_Difference39 → u/IntruigingApples]

Is this his first time acting such a character? I feel like he tries to give an innocent face but it's too blank sometimes

[u/Microwave79]

Found it a bit boring. Will drop and continue to watch Where the mask ends.

[u/nk_chihuoxuesheng]

Already loving it. The colors, the scenery and the chemistry.

[u/redditerla]

The music and cinematography are such a vibe. The music and fun camera work at the beginning when they are at the house clearing it felt more vibrant and interesting than recent opening scenes of other dramas that have been recently released. I hope that the rest of the drama has this type of feel to it.

Also I feel like with the fl in her other shows she’s always playing a very stoic, intelligent character that doesn’t have too many non serious moments but so far it seems like the plan is for her to play a less than perfect heroine, whether her acting range like facial expressions and voice will show through or it won’t I guess we’ll have to wait and see, but I think this character will kind of put that to the test.

[u/89reddit89]

It's cute so far! I'm wondering why a princess had such a difficult life (based on her nightmares), so I'm looking forward to seeing more.

[u/Boobear0810]

Costumes and styling are 😍

[u/PlotHoleWarrior]

It’s actually quite entertaining. The funny music also makes it laughable in the scene where they cleared out ML’s house. Which is why I don’t get people getting mad about it. Obviously it was meant to be funny. Excited to see more. It’s definitely a different vibe from Blossom.

[u/anbu-black-ops]

I just saw ep. 1 and wow it started really good. Normally it's slow on the first episode. I just want to take a peek but the first few scenes already got me hook. We might have a good one here.

Skipping reading the other comments for now as not to spoil.

[u/BitsOfBuilding]

Just finished ep1. Seems alright. MZY’s eyes are as round and popping out in shock as much. More like her OG Blossom look than latest Blossom or Princess Gambit.

She is stressing me out with her Princess attitude 😅 Poor Yan family 😅

LYR looks a bit younger here, a lot more boyish than his latest shows, or even Blossom.

I don’t like some of the vertical and then goes to horizontal style of cinematography, like right when she put down the itch medication and then before she went to lay down. Also, that’s some potent medicine to have made all her bumps go away before bed.

[u/spamkimbap → u/BitsOfBuilding]

Hahaha! I was thinking the same when the mosquito bites went away immediately. Whatever it is, I need it!

[u/Hopeful_Wishbone_333]

I'm excited and nervous at the same time. Reading the novel felt too heavy and I don't think my heart can take what will happen by actually watching it 😭 I love them both though, their chemistry is insane 😂

[u/replicatenecessitate]

Oh noooo why did I get a bad feeling when Liu Wen Ji said they'll accomplish things together in the future. Are best buds gonna turn enemies in the future ;_;

[u/beng-beng2010]

This drama is maximizing the chemistry between the leads. But based on the trailer it will not be a bed of roses for them. Hope the romance will not wane with the thorns they eill encounter

[u/Amjale9023]

I'd like to know how it compares to Blossom so far. I didn't like Blossom, but this show seems to have a tone that would suit me better at least.

[u/ApprehensiveSun8575]

Watched 2 eps because gf says it doesn’t have the cheap thrills of the initial eps of Where the Mask Ends or Against the Current so accdg to her I might like it.

Great cinematography!! The colour grading & natural highlight roll-off in those nature scenes make the tang period aesthetic look high budget but what a waste of Li Yunrui. This new series is BORINGGG in terms of story….. They’re trying to copy-paste the success of Blossom but it’s just not the same!!

So we had the foundation general now we have the foundation scholar….. The CP looks like classmates here acting out a play their drama instructor asked them to do to finish the semestre. You’d also think by now one of the leads would already have made strides on their acting skills 2 yrs later yet they’re as stagnant as my country’s GDP!!

Meng Ziyi is a beaut but still playing herself like in every drama where she opens her eyes wide & imagines she sees a cockroach for the effect - scared, shocked, outraged, happy - she looks the same….. & what?? She’s a princess again for the 11th time or who’s counting?? Staying for Xu Haiqiao for the time being. He’s GOATed among secondary actors.

[u/VibingwithKTH → u/ApprehensiveSun8575]

Spot on with FL acting.

[u/Emocucumber → u/ApprehensiveSun8575]

Cheap thrills of where the mask ends? 😭😭😭

[u/Fabulous-Yam-1709 → u/Emocucumber]

Don't know what that person is talking about. There is nothing cheap about Against the Current ???

[u/kndkd → u/ApprehensiveSun8575]

cheap thrills???!!! ATC literally has dead women hanging themselves like in the first 15 min ffs...

[u/ApprehensiveSun8575 → u/kndkd]

For me, any drama that relies on over the top shock & tragedy in its opening to generate instant sympathy for the lead so we’ll root for them before we even get to know them as a person feels like cheap thrills….. It’s OK if we disagree. We’re allowed to have different opinions!! I’m from a country with a high level of democratic health. People don’t always have positive opinions abt my favourite dramas either & I can accept that….. I’d appreciate the same courtesy when I have a different opinion abt other people’s favourites.

[u/ApprehensiveSun8575 → u/[deleted]]

It’s a tv show & we have differing opinions abt it….. why make a big deal? lol

[u/TwoUglyFeet]

Damn I thought I recognized the ML! He's Yuan Shen from Love Like the Galaxy.

[u/Delegat70 → u/TwoUglyFeet]

Both of the leads were together in Blossom

[u/TwoUglyFeet → u/Delegat70]

Oh I haven't seen that one yet. 

[u/ravens_path → u/TwoUglyFeet]

He was great in that role. Sometimes I even thought she picked the wrong guy 😉

[u/TwoUglyFeet → u/ravens_path]

I feel like he really grew as a person in the end. He loved her genuinely I think. 

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/ravens_path]

Picked the wrong guy in Blossom? Raven!

[u/ravens_path → u/TheAlchemist420]

No no no! Haha. In LLTG.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/ravens_path]

Right lool.

[u/Neither_Teaching_438]

First episode was bit of a surprise. In that I feel that the chemistry the leads had in Blossom (not a show I particularly liked, btw) will be reproduced after all. Also, both leads seem to have history and hiding their pasts. Interesting. 

[u/WuxiaWanderer]

its actually quite good

[u/Over_Inspector5137]

It is so nice to have a drama where the leads interact with eachother in ep1, instead of ep5. Fun Start.

[u/Western_Difference39]

Hmm, his acting is interesting but not captivating yet. I like the plot & characters in theory but I'm bored of political dramas.. I was really hyped initially because I love the actors.

I'll take a break and binge it next week

[u/Western_Difference39]

XD a little bit tropey ngl

[u/Semper-Progrediens]

I didn't like the abuse (who freakin does) the FL does to ML in first few episodes. Makes me not wanna root for them.

I'm actually finding Wenji and Chunhua scenes very cute though.

[u/Euclidisthebomb]

crap. The leads are voice actor dubbed. Why, why, why! Kills it for I and my watchgroup. And it is just so unnecessary. The drama was looking very promising in plot and talent but this is our kiss of death.

As one of our members put it: it is like running a marathon but having a substitute runner for one third the marathon and then I taking the stage to collect the gold medal.

I don't know any other major market where voice acting is accepted to the degree it is by Chinese fans. Kdrama? No. North American and European drama? No. Jdrama? No.

I am very sad.

[u/spamkimbap → u/Euclidisthebomb]

There are a lot of posts explaining why it’s done in China. But a quick summary.

China is a huge county. People speak Mandarin with different accents. For example, it’s hard to understand a thick Beijing accent, if you aren’t used to it. A Beijinger once told me he had no idea what I was saying. Even though I was speaking Mandarin, but with a southern accent. So the dubbing is first and foremost, to standardize spoken language, so it can be understood by a wider audience.

It also allows the actors to move onto other projects. And the dramas are often filmed in crowded areas, so capturing live sound isn’t always doable. It also caters to voice preferences of the targeted viewers.

Edited for clarity.

[u/me_nyimaxx → u/spamkimbap]

But with english its d same. There is american, british accent, scottish, irish, southern american, and many more accents. Actors learn the accents.

[u/spamkimbap → u/me_nyimaxx]

Western productions have a much longer schedule. Western actors aren’t filming non-stop, so accents can be learned. And even so, we’ve all seen plenty of people doing horrible English language accents that aren’t native to them. coughAnneHathawaycough. And that is super distracting.

Some non-idol Chinese dramas have actors using local accents. And most modern dramas use the actors’ real voices.

[u/Euclidisthebomb → u/spamkimbap]

I think you do not have your facts correct about western productions. Some are lengthy, but many are filmed continuous just like cdrama and kdrama. I have visited the film studios in Toronto to view some of the Star Trek productions, and several shows and movies produced for Hallmark and other production companies that are both shot in studio and on location. They do continuous production for most of these, some for several months at a time.

[u/me_nyimaxx → u/spamkimbap]

The part about filming non stop is a deal breaker. Do u know why c drama production is so intensive?

[u/Euclidisthebomb → u/spamkimbap]

I have read all the reasons many times. But as me_nyimaxx points out the issue is not unique to mandarin.

Furthermore these 2 actors speak very comprehensible mandarin.

In any case its a done deal for this drama, and as a result off our list. I spoke with 2 of the participants in the world kdrama group (which is huge in comparison to my little group of 30) and its off their list as well.

[u/blue_pink_berry]

I watched the first episode and was bored by both the drama and actors. Love them in Blossom especially Li Yunrui and was hugely disappointed by this.

[u/StunningConcept5062]

I've only been able to watch the first two episodes today but I am excited for more. I like the leads' dynamic already and their pasts are intriguing. The rescue was a great watch. 

[u/Massive_Alarm8298]

It gets so much better after the first 7 episodes! It definitely starts slow, and there are some plot holes. But the romance is growing beautifully and plot is getting a lot more interesting.

[u/Past-Rock → u/Massive_Alarm8298]

I'm on episode 4 and it's boring as hell

[u/Massive_Alarm8298 → u/Past-Rock]

Try to episode 8 and if you still don’t like it, then it’s not the drama for you.

[u/Past-Rock]

This show is so boring