Uncensored costume BL drama: brave step forward

If you want to create uncensored costume BL drama, how to outwit Chinese censorship? Make the drama a collab project, produce it by a Thai company and distribute to international platforms. Bingo! When I've first heard about it in spring, while the drama was in production, my reaction was: "Looks intriguing. I wonder what they can come up with. I'll give it a try when it airs". So what's the result of the experiment?
First thing that impressed me was how the start of the story is built on contrasts. Jin Xiaobao is young master from a rich and loving family: spoiled, flirty and frivolous, however kind, caring and sympathetic. Zongzheng Huaien, cold as ice and aloof, was raised by cruel father; he's never seen kindness from anyone and views romantic love as a bad thing. This is how their story begins.
Secondly, I was glad to see that the drama had significant background. It's not just a romcom which started with a crossdressing. Actions of people obssessed with power, revenge and past grievances collide with MLs' family backgrounds and put their budding relationship to the test. The second half of the plot is very intense. Characters' development is beyond doubt: Xiaobao eventually turns out to be much stronger than seemed in the beginning, Huaien with his possessive personality finally realizes that true love can't be forced. The final episode is so peaceful and heartwarming, the best ending possible.
Does the drama have drawbacks? Yes. Minor problems with costumes, accessories and wigs are not that important, I barely noticed them. Acting, production and martial arts could have been better, but considering the low budget and the whole project being the experiment, the team did a decent job. The only thing that really worried me is the consent issue in the first half of the story. I know the drama follows the novel which I haven't read, but I don't want such an issue to become a trend for future dramas. If this project paves the way to more Chinese uncensored costume dramas of better quality and about healthy relationships, excellent. I'll wait for them.

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Amazing drama that will capture your heart

First of all, I admit that I haven't read the original novel. Actually I didn't know neither about the novel nor about the existence of its adaptation, just got very curious when all this story suddenly began in February... So I accepted the adaptation as a given and really enjoyed all its storyline and twists.

I first saw Huang Jun Jie as Zhang Qiling in DMBJ universe. Back then, watching Reunion: The Sound of the Providence, I thought that something was wrong with his role and realized: he does his best, of course, but this role isn't meant for him. It doesn't let him display his talent. But here in The Spirealm Huang Jun Jie truly shines! Perfect match. I totally loved his character's development, from being confused, unconfident, shy and a bit funny in the beginning to mature, confident and charming later. Ling Jiushi is kind, loyal and compassionate, and what I like most about him is that he doesn't harbour resentments. "I cherish what I have now".
Surely people already made a lot of comments about Ruan Lanzhu. Let me share my impression too :) Xia Zhi Guang performed such a complicated task brilliantly, I admire how he portrayed different sides of his character: mischievous, flirty, charismatic (and dangerous) behind the door, other times serious and (seemingly) indifferent, and his soft side meant for Ling Jiushi alone. And their wonderful bond. How this relationship changed them both. I don't mind the absence of frank confessions, because all is so crystal clear! To tell the most important things without words, just with those affectionate gazes, full of love and caring, that's beautiful. This is what art is.
The whole story is engaging and I would even say, addictive! I felt comfortable with the plot structure, foretasting every new adventure in the world of doors. All arcs were carefully written, characters, visuals, music, all is good. And personally I accept the ending.
Will I rewatch? Definitely yes! No goodbyes. Just see you later...

I wrote this review almost two months after completing the drama. Still can't let go.

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Smart detective trio seeking truth and justice

Since I'm into mystery genre and Republican dramas with their special visual style and vibes, Strange Tales of Jiang Cheng turned out a real gift for me. And of course I was happy to see Xia Zhiguang and his personal growth as actor.
So this is short-length drama, fast-paced and packed with interesting and complex cases. It's very captivating, every episode left me craving for more. The plot, the style, humour and characters' dynamics are all very good. One shortcoming is perhaps that the drama could have shown us more interaction between characters after some case is closed, however dramas of such format have their limitations.
The characters' dynamics is admirable. I enjoyed how Qin Huole and Song He became friends. Their relationship started with a conflict, they argued a lot with each other but gradually became partners who trust and respect each other. Someone perhaps would complain about a lack of bromance, but for me it's not the reason to rate the drama low. I see strong friendship between them and I can't say that there is no affection here at all! And I want to especially praise Fan Xiaofan, truly likeable female lead: she is smart, brave, professional, kind and decisive. Our detective trio joins skills, seeks truth and support each other. The most precious thing.
The story ends with an open finale, so there is a hope for season two. I really want them to return.

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