Dian Wan Da Lian Meng: Zhao Jun Ya & Xiao Xiao Yu – Part 21

Eh…she lost her voice? Aww… Anyway, they were promoting Rookies’ Diary album once again – with her holding it up like that.

Trying to scare us? LOL!

OMG! Busted! YES, he was smiling when he mentioned beautiful girls. LOL! So funny seeing him trying to defend himself though. He brought that upon himself this time. she didn’t have a hand in it. At least she didn’t initiated it this time around.

Games: 天龍八部 Online, 天龍八部 2 Online, 劍俠世界 Online, 仙劍 Online, 迷你格鬥 Online

She should stop doing gestures behind his back. (For her safety, of course, LOL!)

And yes, he looked like he wanted to strangle her.

She didn’t get it? Or she looked like she didn’t want to get it. (Just to drive him crazy that was.) LOL!

OMG! I knew it! No wonder she was all asking him those questions. It seemed like she wanted to use that opportunity to let him show off his photogenic memory. LOL! So much for it! He was way off! Okay, Jim was still J (i.e. his answer with John), but Rebecca was WAY off (since he said Jean). Man, it was so funny seeing him edged out of it! LOL! (I was really laughing like a nut at that part.) He should surrender already. YES, she said it! John and Jim were similar in tone or somewhat similar. But Rebecca? Seriously! LOL! (Yeah, I was watching and writing at the same time so sort of paused before it got to this part with her saying it.) And who was he kidding during the narration? He’s the one always thinking of girls, and he said he wasn’t hinting at that? AND he used ‘la feng’ again.

Yup, he learned from the past since seeing her smile couldn’t be good. She’s up to something again, LOL! OMG! She was still laughing about the whole “John Jim…” thing. LOL! She got me going again. Man, that was really funny though! That was strange he got it mixed up. Then when they were moving onto introducing the next game, she asked him what was the names of the characters again! LOL!

She needed to stay alert so she was doing those gestures while he was talking? LOL!

Okay, so it’s his turn to pick on her now? Well, we’ll see if she would let him. So funny how he was saying that she was acting like a smart aleck again, LOL! It was too funny to see her so jumpy though. Well, no surprise since she was usually very active and excited to play games. Yet her ‘overly-excited’ died down since awhile back because she had to take on the ‘mature’ role when he was having one of his episodes. YET now she was all jumpy again. In fact it was like since the last episode? Not that I don’t like it but seemed a bit strange. Wonder what happened, lol. Oh well.

What is it this time? Hmm…her energy drained after all that jumpy movements from earlier? His presence was causing her to feel unwell? Really? LOL! Great…they were back at it again…nothing new. Okay, she was only kidding. LOL!

OOOOHHHHH…busted again. YUP, lol. She only wanted to test him with the character name(s) again YET he accidentally exposed himself. LOL! So funny with her saying that he would remember beautiful girl(s) and compared it with the number of girls on his cell phone book.

Yay, she was getting back to her cheerful self. And he was going crazy too. Equal. No need to fight now. LOL!

Man, strange game but looks like fun. Funny that she was disappointed that it wasn’t a multi-players game. Can’t beat him, right? LOL! OMG! That was so cool! Didn’t realize what they were doing until later. At the kicking part, I was wondering if she would end up kicking him since she was so focused on the fight, LOL!

Look at her, all excited! LOL! But then again, I would too. LOL! Anyway, they showed his version of the story while he was narrating. Cool stuffs!

They were so in-sync with each other, LOL! A wacko episode but indeed cranked up the hype a bit more.

*All images were captured by DTLCT

Submerged

Happy Friday the 13th! Well, NOT so happy for some of you. AND the positive side is it’s probably over for some of you already. But anyway, what’s this post about? This is a gift I just drawn up just for today. It doesn’t come in the form of cheering anyone up though because I’m using this day to present the last fan fiction that I would be writing in regard to Cyndi with Tony, Wallace, and Nic. What’s the 2nd last one? It hasn’t come to light yet though will be posted in the future when I get that done. (Of course it’s one of my usual long-winded ones.) What made me come to such decision as to exterminate my fan fictions with Cyndi in connection with the three guys? Honestly, they’re probably my favorite Cyndi pairings ever. Sadly, through all my lame attempts to create some kind of sparks had failed miserably all these years. So I thought I finally hang my hat. That doesn’t mean I won’t write about those artists anymore. I just said that it’s just in relation to Cyndi, NOT excluding them all from fan fictions from now on. So yes, I would still be working on fan fictions that have the three guys in them. Some notes before I post the story: (1) this was of course written today, (2) it was inspired by Tony and Cyndi’s song “Jian Ao”, and (3) the story is random like my usual ones. The title itself already reflected my moods relating with Cyndi and the three guys. But NOT seeking for pity points. Just saying. Without further ado, here it is (including disclaimers – OF COURSE):

DISCLAIMER: The following is of fictional work and should not be taken seriously or be accounted for actual facts in any way. It is not aim to confuse or mislead anyone for that matter. It is not meant to offend or disrespect any of the artists mentioned in the work either. Its purpose only serves to entertain and share with other fans who also like those artists. Thank you for reading.

Cyndi descended the familiar rough stone path leading into the garden. She did not stop there because she spotted Tony on the other side, admiring the view. He looked like he had been there for a while now. In fact, he had probably stood there all morning waiting for the moment when the sun rise. Each step taking her closer to him caused her heart to increase its skipping. Just when she was about to speak up, calling out his name to declare her arrival, he dissolved into smoke. And just like that, she panicked and turned abruptly, searching for him everywhere and anywhere she could think of. Yet her feet fail her since it was her mind zooming faster than her motor nerves would allow. The next thing she knew, she had awakened in cold sweat. Like many nights before. Since the day she learned he was engaged to someone and was getting married soon.

*****

You don’t love me, do you? The words echoed repetitively in Wallace’s mind. He knew the day would come when she would break up with him. It was a matter of time. But he just didn’t want to let go. They’d been together for so long. How could he accept the fact that he was not the most important person in her life? And the most ironic thing was having them both at the same wedding in the coming days. He needed to get creative with the upcoming meeting. Tony was not going to like it. But he knew he had to severe the ties. It wasn’t about saving face but more about his heart that was still feeling the tormenting.

*****

Nic never liked being a replacement but if Wallace asked, then he had no choice except to agree. Tony didn’t like the last minute change. But Tony had to go along with it anyway. Because Tony’s bride-to-be wasn’t going to let go of Wallace’s supposed partner. When push came to shove, they had two choices: called off the wedding – or give in. And Tony had chosen the latter. Yet Nic pondered what had happened to cause the breakup at such a time. But it wasn’t like he wanted the third degree from Wallace. At least not when it was rapidly approaching Tony’s wedding day.

*****

Tony returned his glass to the table and waved the others off. He had enough. He didn’t want to be drunk. Not tonight. What he wanted to do was reminisce about the past with them. For just one last time. Tomorrow, after the wedding, he was off to start a new life with his wife. Also, at the wedding, Wallace was leaving for an unknown trip – to mend his heart. Nic? Nic volunteered to wrap up everything while he, himself, could enjoy the rest of the time with his wife without worrying. What about Cyndi? Tony didn’t know. She seemed strange since the day he returned to announce his upcoming marriage. It was like their group of foursome had a silent, mutual agreement to move forward without wanting to care about what the future would bring them. And without telling one another what that future would include.

“One more,” Wallace said, slamming his glass down on the table for emphasis. He was not letting the others go easily tonight.

“You know it’s his big day tomorrow, right?” Nic reminded Wallace.

Wallace turned and gave Nic a sharp glare. He didn’t care. At least Tony’s life was going to turn toward the better direction. As for the rest of them? As far as Wallace was concerned, Nic was going to be cleanup crew, he – himself – was going to disappear to a far place and become a chameleon, and Cyndi? He didn’t know. In fact, none of them knew. And he quit caring about her well-being since the day of the breakup. In fact, he was done caring for anyone after that day.

“No big deal,” Tony interfered. “I’ll just watch you guys drink.”

“The hell you are!” Wallace objected, shoving a full glass of beer toward Tony. “You’re not leaving until we’re all drunk. And that includes you.”

“I thought we’re out tonight to celebrate for Tony and not watch you soak in your misery,” Nic sabotaged Wallace again.

Wallace was about to confront Nic but that was when Cyndi appeared. She was still in her work uniforms. Wallace’s eyes barely raked past her before raising his hand to call to the waiter.

“No more,” Tony said before Wallace could order some more beers.

“What are you doing, man?” Wallace demanded, turning to Tony.

“I know it’s not the best of time for you. But we have to stay alert for tomorrow. Wouldn’t it be too much if I show up late for my own wedding?”

Wallace scoffed. “So you’re acting all mighty now?”

Tony didn’t want to penalize Wallace for Wallace’s current attitude. He understood too well. It was too big of a blow for Wallace. It was also the reason why he had turned down the others’ ideas of a bachelor’s party. And had opted for a casual gathering with just the four of them. Because he knew that it was the three of them who had been with him throughout these years, growing up and changing their lives together. Not some outsiders who just wanted to throw some wild party as an excuse for a gathering.

“What’s with him?” Cyndi asked as she settled down at the seat between Tony and Wallace. She was staring at Nic – who was facing her at the moment – for an answer.

“Haven’t you heard?” Nic asked back.

Cyndi shook her head, confused.

“His girl just broke up with him.”

Cyndi gasped but recovered quickly.

“Yeah, laugh all you want,” Wallace muttered bitterly.

Cyndi ignored him, gesturing for the waiter to take her order. She, too, ordered some beer instead of the usual regular light drinks. In fact, while she was at it, she told the waiter to bring another glass for Wallace.

“Are you crazy?” Tony exclaimed, looking at Cyndi in bewilderment.

Cyndi turned to him with her icy cold glare. “Not everyone is as lucky as you to have found your happiness.”

“Speak for yourself, Miss Wang.”

Cyndi didn’t care to look at Tony anymore. She directed her eyes toward Wallace. “I just broke up with my boyfriend as well.”

It was then that Wallace sobered up to listen in. He exchanged a look with Nic like they were best friends again.

“It’s for the best,” Cyndi said. “Than dragging it out and hurting him even more.”

“You girls and your reasoning,” Wallace mumbled – his bitterness returning.

Cyndi still had her eyes on him, not backing down to his threatening tone – or his terrible attitude at the moment. “Would you rather be lied to?”

Wallace scoffed, diverting his eyes away from Cyndi on purpose. “Perhaps you shouldn’t give us hope at the beginning then. If you knew you couldn’t do it.”

“Let’s not talk about it tonight,” Tony interjected.

“That’s right,” Nic agreed.

Cyndi placed her handbag loosely behind her then and picked up the glass that the waiter just put down in front of her. “How about congratulating Tony tonight?”

Wallace smiled then. It was strange that he was, considering his dark moods previously. “That’s right.”

Nic didn’t wait for Wallace to change his mind again. He picked up his glass and placed it alongside the others. “To Tony’s new future.”

Tony knew he couldn’t turn them down so he risked another glass. Or at least another sip.

“We’ll always be friends, right?” Tony asked after he drank a sip – and the others a little more than that, especially Wallace.

Wallace’s amused smile turned on then. “What do you think?”

And Wallace wasn’t kidding. They were all heading toward a new destination tomorrow night. Who was to say they would meet again? It wasn’t like it was impossible. But not too probable.

*****

And Wallace was right because over the next few years, the course of their lives steered themselves way clear of one another. Whether it was intentional or unintentional, they had no idea. Yet they knew for sure that one day. Perhaps one day, they would reunite – regardless of how they vouched to never meet up again.

That little reunion happened on an autumn day when the leaves had already turned to various colors of the spectrum. And Tony was still married and happy. Even looking forward to be a father. Wallace, the bitter Wallace, was still bitter. Because he was never the happy-go-lucky among the four of them anyway. But he was no longer bitter because of lost love. Instead, it was because of a familiarity they could all relate to since they came to know one another. Nic, on the other hand, was ever so unchanging, welcoming their return and had been waiting for them all these years. His life had taken toward the path he had wanted, not dwelling on whether he would meet them or not once again. Because deep down in his heart, he knew they would return one day. Their curiosity would never allow them to stay away for such an extended amount of time. Not to mention this was what people called a lifetime. Cyndi? They couldn’t find Cyndi. Not at first. But all three knew where she would be.

Cyndi was at the garden. All three guys smiled upon seeing her there. Like they had expected. She still carried that dark, forlorn aura they seen her since the day she heard of Tony’s engagement. It wasn’t like they didn’t know. Or perhaps Nic and Wallace had known. If Tony had known, he wouldn’t expect her to attend the wedding so forcibly like that. Though they only saw her back by the fountain but it was enough. It was her trademark pose. And the crème scarf. And the light tan dress with the white hat. It was like she hadn’t changed since she left them that night. In fact, since they all left Nic behind that night.

“It’s good to know some things are still as predictable,” Wallace spoke up in his usual teasing tone.

It was rare that Wallace was the one offering any source of peace toward any one of them. Though deep down, they always knew he was grateful to have them as his friends.

Cyndi turned then upon hearing Wallace’s voice. She turned with an actual smile on her face. A smile that surprised them into speechlessness. What was more, there on her hand was a ring sparkling in the afternoon’s hazy sunlight. And Wallace’s smile made its appearance next. The rare sincere one, not the one reeking of mockery.

“Your Singles’ Club Card,” Wallace said, extending his hand toward her. And he meant it with sincerity.

“I’m sorry,” Cyndi said, still smiling and playing along with Wallace. “But I fed it to the shredder a long time ago already.”

“Then you need to compensate us for the damaged property,” Wallace replied. He had meant himself and Nic.

“What are you talking about?” Nic asked, turning to Wallace. “You’re the one who should be compensating us for breaking the contract.”

Wallace smiled, knowing Nic had found him out. He stepped forward and made his way closer to Cyndi. He wasn’t demanding her share of the compensation fees though. He grabbed hold of her right hand with his left. Cyndi didn’t resist or made a move to undo his hand from hers. Instead, she returned his smile. They finally turned toward the other two.

“I bet you never would have thought of this outcome, huh?” Wallace asked. He was looking at Tony. Because Nic already knew through the similar designs of both rings.

Tony smiled then, admitting defeat. “Leave it up to you to upstage me on every single occasion, good or bad.”

Wallace still had on his proud smile. “Who would have thought that the two unlucky beings of your wedding would end up getting together when you want to announce another good news?” And the biggest irony of it all was being dumped by someone who loved Tony dearly and then ending up with another who once felt exactly the same about Tony as well. Though Wallace had more confidence with this one, and he had made a right choice that day when they both stumbled into each other two years back. If that wasn’t fate, he didn’t know what the hell it was.

Tony nodded. “One day…”

Wallace pointed at Tony. “No, there won’t be one day. Because we’re not leaving anymore. We have a new mission now.”

Tony had on his puzzled expression. “What mission?”

“Find that special someone for our buddy here.”

Then Tony understood. They all turned to Nic. But Nic just smiled, not making a big fuss like the last few times that they had teased him about his sad soul status. He pulled out his wallet and showed them a picture of a girl. In fact, it was a couple picture – with both smiling happily. Or so it seemed.

“Sometimes, you have to admit that you two aren’t the only ones with the surprises, right?” Nic asked. He meant Tony and Wallace.

“What’s her name?” Wallace asked, wanting to go the long way – instead of snapping at Nic upfront.

Nic still had on that placid, unscheming smile. “Amber.”

“All we need is more sunshine in our lives,” Wallace teased.

“At least we don’t have to worry that he’ll turn into some lonely old man anymore,” Cyndi reminded them all.

“Who knows?” Wallace said. “Maybe one day….”

“There won’t be one day,” Nic repeated of the phrase Wallace said earlier. “Because I know what I’m doing.”

“Unlike the rest of us?” Tony asked, his voice challenging.

“No.”

They continued to wait without interruptions.

“Because I’m an old man.”

Wallace reached over and clapped Nic’s shoulder then. “You bet you are.”

It was just a joke. An inside joke. Because they all knew it actually meant that Nic was a careful person, once he decided something, he would never back down. And regardless of his passive exterior, he had more determination in him than all of them combined.

© Friday, January 13^th, 2012

Forensic Heroes III

Just finished watching this so I want to talk about it. This is probably one of 2011′s better series. Though some might disagree, but I wasn’t disappointed at all – even if I had some doubts at first. I’m probably in the minority group that didn’t care about the cast change (because it was associated with the last two parts). Look at it this way, this is another team out in the field working, not just always the same team. Or it’s okay. I wouldn’t want to force anyone into accepting. I must say that the result’s pretty good because it made sense for the most part. The cases weren’t that complicated yet it wasn’t that terrible either. If you compared it to the first two, the complexity had gone WAY down regarding how it was planned, etc at times. However, it didn’t mean that there was a lack of planning in some cases. Most were relating to accidental deaths or impulse killing/those in the moment of the heat or anger type. Yet don’t those cases happen more often in real life than those super complicated ones? We like to watch more complicated ones because it makes us think. And these ones, some were so stupid after we found out the result or how it had happened in the first place, but doesn’t half of those reflect real life situations? I swear it’s not going to get that interesting. Because of the too messed up world today (whether we want to admit it or not), sometimes killings happen for senseless reasons OR just some dumb argument. It’s scary that it’s just that simple and some people couldn’t control themselves. But wasn’t too dumb.To turn back to the cases though, the way they handled the forensic parts and investigation weren’t too lame.

The Team:

• Wayne Lai as Pro Sir. OMG! A clever and witty character yet didn’t turn out disappointing at all. I was so scared that his character would go downhill by the time his wife returned. Yet he was so firm on his belief and it was so consistent with his character that I had to clap the writers on. Should I even compliment Wayne even more? Hey, I’ve been supporting him since forever so no need. LOL!
• Maggie Cheung as Mandy. Maggie was really on par with Wayne’s character in here and they didn’t lose a beat. That was so cool though. Her character was consistent enough and Maggie made it both cute and clever at the same time.
• Ron Ng as Wind. What can I say about Wind? It was really funny at first. Then it got even more sad for him since the whole incident with his family. But lucky all of that passed. Yet I still like to see his humorous side more. His ‘NG47′ nickname was so funny as well. I meant come on now. Was that a hint? Interestingly enough since I was watching ‘Wax & Wane’ at the same time, I found his performances so different. I’m so serious here. It was like he was much more comfortable and more natural in here. Okay, so the cool character helped. But did anyone notice the ‘rocking motion of his body’ in the other one, especially when he was talking to Roger or the others in ‘Wax & Wane’? (Except with Kate since after several collaborations, he should be quite comfortable with her.) In here, he was like more laid-back and more composed. I don’t know what happened. Even if he did appear a lot in series this year (2011), I still notice some differences. Just don’t want to take points off just because TVB scheduled series back-to-back just like that.
• Kate Tsui as Ada. At first, I had some doubt of Kate being a madam. So unfair to her but I still want to see how it would work. Though I already seen her as a cop in ‘Speech of Silence‘ but she wasn’t a madam in there so it would be interesting to see how that went. I thought she was convincing enough as the leader since she did manage the pose at the appropriate times. Then she was also relaxed off-work. That made her character not too one-layered. SO I was glad the script-writers didn’t try to make her into another ‘Madame Leung’ or ‘Madame Ma’.
• Edwin Siu as Ken Ho. Interestingly, he got an important role in here. NOT that I oppose it since I actually want to see him in different types of roles too and this role really suited him. OR he made it convincing enough.
• Aimee Chan as Angel Chiang. A tomboyish role for her. Kind of repetitive but it was all right. I liked it that she didn’t stand out so much but still had some sort of story. I so didn’t know she would die later but honestly, that was SAD. Kind of somewhat unexpected and unnecessary BUT I guess I’m not so sore about it anymore.
• Ram Tseung as Paul Yau. After watching his portrayal in ‘Twilight Investigation‘, it was interesting to see him back on this side of the scale. LOL! (Not that it wasn’t fun to see how he could portray the other one so convincingly.) I liked how he was a veteran and amazed how his character was experienced in so many areas. It was funny that he was telling his stories when the others asked, thinking they were worshiping him but when he looked, he realized they had gone back to work already! Awww…but still funny. And I had a good scare thinking that his son was actually involved but glad he didn’t have to suffer too much.

Others:

• Ruco Chan as Jim Fong. Is it just me or is it since he returned to TVB, he didn’t look so hot anymore? (OR so people like to use with ‘hot’ or whatever.) Not that I would like him any less. But I think he needs to sharpen it up a bit more, not get too comfortable. It’s like they had given him a certain parameters and how he returned to the ‘box of TVB’, not so impressive anymore. YET not disappointing either. Perhaps I would restore my faith in him when I muster up the courage to watch ‘The Other Truth’. But we’ll see. It wasn’t like his character wasn’t great. But it was like his acting style got crammed, like not allowing so much creativity anymore.
  
• Nancy Wu as Eva Chow. I honestly think Nancy’s better with those roles where she’s the semi-villain. I meant she wasn’t technically bad in general. YET she possessed those fatal personalities with being so driven by her ambition and would do anything to achieve it – regardless of techniques or consequences. She showed that side quite well. Yet what I was thinking the whole time (and thanks to my mom for pointing it out) if it was her acting or the script with the part where she was celebrating too early and sort of smiled and Pro Sir saw her. It was the scene in court where she heard that the witness couldn’t come and she smiled. (The girl was portrayed by Lily Ho.) If according to her character, she was a clever and cunning lawyer, so why would she let such a small detail make her celebrate so early and smile just like that in front of everyone? She had to repress herself upon hearing that right? Or did they the script-writers need something for Pro Sir to suspect hence making her character smile like that? Too contradictory so I could only thought of it as script error. AND I so thought or guess that she was going to get killed by Felix Lok later YET I was wrong. I meant she messed with fire so she gotta pay? I thought the plot was steering in that direction. But okay, whatever works. Lesson for this one: Curiosity kills the cat. She should’ve walked away when Pro Sir warned her of danger, etc. Or was her pride getting in the way again? (Aka proving to him and others that she could crack the case. We all know she’s capable, don’t need to prove it too much. Or was it for fame? Still not worth her life.)
• Geoffrey Wong as CIP Jason Ko. Another silly role for him. It was so funny that the others had misunderstood him AND they kept thinking that Wind would beat him yet it wasn’t so. They finally get to witness his famous ‘shadowless foot’ technique. LOL!
• Yuen Wah as Pro Sir’s father. So funny. What made it funnier was him keep trying to match-make Pro Sir with others YET ended bringing trouble upon himself. I got a good laugh out of that. Always liked Yuen Wah since the old days so enjoyed his performance.
• Angela Tong as Rebeca. Hilarious! I found it extremely amazing that she was able to make her character so funny. Though just a few scenes here and there but she made my day more than some characters in here.
• Mary Hon as Ada’s mother. Mixed feelings. I don’t doubt Mary’s acting since I’ve been seeing her act like forever. NOT that long but it has been too long. What bugs me is her character at times. I found her extremely funny for using Wind as her handyman at first and all. Yet it was quite disturbing when she took those packages of goodies from Wind’s mother. It sort of made her and her daughter look bad. Fine if she didn’t like the woman (and I don’t like Wind’s mother either) BUT that move made her less graceful. She scolded the woman and then took her things? The least she could do was paid in full so the other party wouldn’t think of her as some flaky person. (OR so it seemed.) The other thing that was funny of her was how she was arguing with Mandy’s grandfather and mistaken Jim for Ada’s boyfriend that one time.
• Rosanne Lui as Wind’s mother. Annoying. Not sure if I was still biased against her since after watching ‘Be Home For Dinner‘ but her performance in here was similar even if the character was different. I don’t know. I used to be less bugged by her though saw her in other series already. BUT for some reason, she has been bugging me lately. OR was it because she got more important roles and couldn’t handle it? Too ironic that she was disappointing, considering her age. I guess this was one of those cases that veteran artist does not mean good acting? I don’t know. Her character didn’t help her case either.
• Law Lok Lam as the main villain. Well, sort of since he had to do with the last case. Creepy. I swear I thought they had to deal with Felix Lok’s character since he was mentioned as a character that wasn’t easily messed with. BUT it was Law Lok Lam’s character. Haven’t seen him in an important villain role for a while now. (At least I probably didn’t watch the right series, LOL…) He was convincing as being creepy all right. And I must say after watching ‘Be Home For Dinner’ with his silly role, this was proof that he hadn’t lost it with being versatile since he looked so silly (or funny, lol) in the other one yet this one was like quite chilling to the bones.

Pairings:

• Wayne and Maggie. It had been a long time now since I seen a favorite couple. I meant it more in terms of characters than as actor and actress yet it could just be both. If I hadn’t mention it before (though I’m sure I did), I always like it when couples would match wit-per-wit instead of having one extremely smart and the other brainless. OR at least have each with a strong area instead of those helpless weaklings (or make the main girl/guy dumb on purpose). SO it was really enjoyable to watch for me with these two. They were so in-sync with one another when they were still partners and/or friends that was so amazing. Then when they were finally a couple, they showed both respect and love for one another that made it even more special. They didn’t just say those words yet proved true throughout. I was so scared they would make his character so wishy-washy when his ex-wife return and all. After all, they were married for years before. YET he had made his point clear and what was really priceless was seeing Pro Sir always bringing Mandy along on trips when Eva demanded for his attention or some type of meeting. It was sad for Eva, BUT I was glad he didn’t cause any misunderstandings by leading Eva on accidentally – if he had appeared alone, etc. I was glad the script-writer didn’t reduce his character to nothing for once. I was so sick of the recent main guys always making the ‘oops’ because they thought it was unnecessary to inform the current gf about stuffs if the ex-gf/wife had pulled some stunts – and the typical thinking he shouldn’t trouble her. I was soooo glad they steered away from that formula. Though I’m sure Mandy’s the understanding type and wouldn’t be swayed or feel threatened by Eva’s subtle threats yet I found it necessary to see those scenes with how Pro Sir had always made it clear. It let us – as the audience – see that Pro Sir was determined to make his relationship work with Mandy – and how his character was consistent throughout with him being smart, etc. One of the scenes I loved the most was seeing how in-sync they were at that one restaurant/bar when he ordered her drink and food for her already and later when she finally came, he asked about the lectures, then they shared the food, etc. It was so cute YET showed their tacit interactions. SO wrong of me to enjoy it when Eva was there but it  made me so convinced that Pro Sir and Mandy belonged together. Not to mention how the scene repeated itself later on too, not just that one time. Wayne and Maggie sure made the effort to build this chemistry. (Because I wasn’t so sure on this pairing at first though I wouldn’t mind seeing this fresh pairing. Now I’m convinced.)
• Ron and Kate. How many times have they collaborated already? Well, as a pairing. I guess TVB’s still compensating – or trying to compensate – us for that one time in ‘The Brink of Law‘ AND I think it’s WAY over now. Once in a while is good, but too many times a year? I love them together – and that’s saying something about current pairings. But please spread it out. LOL! I enjoyed their chemistry in here, of course, and found it different – or so they managed to make it work. It was so funny that she was so wacko when she got drunk. Scared the world out of him the first time around. She even dragged him into all those crazy things, LOL!
• Edwin and Aimee. Mmmm…would never imagined them together yet I got into the storyline. It depends on people’s taste, but I thought  I was fine with it. Then the ending just brought forth more tears than ever. Mostly because of Edwin’s convincing act with the mourning and all. I didn’t know why they killed her off until the last scenes of him remembering back to what she said to him at various times.
• Wayne and Nancy. Seriously, that was odd. Maybe because it was the age lapse or they just looked weird together. They were the correct choices for their roles BUT extremely odd together. I sort of cringed when they were being intimate at various points at the beginning. I don’t know. It was so odd for me. NOT picking on one or the other. I guess it was just one of those couples that didn’t work. Their story was all right I guess. However, what I found was odd was why she loved him so much YET was willing to give such a promising marriage up for that one job? I meant okay, it seemed to be projecting that she was lured in by those luxuries (jewelry store scene with her taking that watch) and the mansion (Felix Lok took her to the mountainside and told her to look down at the row of houses at this one place). OR was her pride getting in the way? Like how she was trying to prove Pro Sir wrong with how he was saying it wasn’t good to mix the other dude? NOT too sure but I’ll just let it go since it’s not worth getting mad over. BUT it wasn’t too unrealistic with couples suddenly breaking up out of nowhere.

The two worlds – FH I & II vs. FH III. YES, had to include this section since I know people love to compare. And I’m somewhat curious too.

• The LEADER: Bobby vs. Wayne – Tim Sir vs. Pro Sir. NOT bad on both counts. I swear they do look cool as the boss. And were equally intelligent – with their own methods. Though I must say I prefer Wayne over Bobby. NOT the characters, but actor. Maybe it was because I never abandoned Wayne before – even if he was in the shadow in the past all these years versus Bobby (whom I lost track for a while). It’s my own personal lapse AND not because Bobby’s not cool.
• The DOCTORS: Frankie vs. Maggie – Dr. Koo vs. Dr. Chung. Yes, I chose Maggie to represent the doctor side though technically both she and Wayne were. YET Wayne had to represent the leader spot. Character-wise, I actually felt Frankie’s character was crafted more complex and had better foundation. Perhaps his life wasn’t so dramatic. But that wasn’t Maggie’s fault for getting the role of a victim in some case as well. But what made it interesting was how he was also an author. Dr. Chung was very creative and intelligent in her own way, but Dr. Koo’s character was really well written and more unique. However, I thought the love story with Dr. Chung was crafted better. Why? I guess being paired up with the main guy made it better advantage since she was the first female lead. Dr. Koo’s love story was all right I guess but I didn’t care for it much because of his other half. So it was half and half for both instances. But I like Frankie and Maggie equally so no choosing there.
• The MADAMES: Yoyo vs. Charmaine vs. Kate – Madame Nicole Leung vs. Madame Bell Ma vs. Madame Ada Ling. Madame Leung was strong and independent, and not to mention aggressive. That made her name ‘yau’ (柔) even more ironic because it meant ‘gentle’. She was also a ‘no-nonsense’ type of person. Madame Ma looked aggressive and was intimidating at one point yet she had a soft heart at others (and had developed her strong exterior because she had to protect her mother). Madame Ling, on the other hand, was more tolerant of her subordinates when they got random and were messing around during meetings. Though there was no doubt she could use her power to make the others work. But I think Yoyo was the more powerful one with the vibe that she exuded. Not that Charmaine and Kate didn’t look aggressive enough since both were shown as capable leaders as well. I just felt like Yoyo pulled it off better as a ‘madame’. Not bringing Charmaine or Kate down because I actually liked both (by now if I hadn’t in the past), but that was what I felt. However, I must say I like all three equally in their own way so no points lost actually.
• The SIDE-KICKS: Raymond Cho vs. Ron – Shum Hung vs. Wind. Shum Hung, they didn’t say much about him in all the two parts that he appeared? I forgot already since that was years ago since I watched both installments.YET he really stood out as Madame Leung’s side-kick every time he appeared. And his rash personality made him all the more lovable. Not to mention how he had such a sense of humor as well. I couldn’t remember quite well with his capabilities either. But I swear he got robbed – even if he was still up there in the cast list. I think with the character development, Wind had it made out better with him being the side-kick and how his background story with him being a rich boy, NOT just a typical cop. Not to mention how he also knew taewondo and competed in this one competition with Ko Sir. All in all though, I like both characters just fine. They were different in their own way. Acting? Raymond Cho’s actually the better one here. I’m not saying that because Ray’s like one of my favorites. But Ray started out better than Ron and is still so – even if he kept getting pushed aside at times. The other thing was how little information Ray had with his character but was able to make his character shine out, making it memorable. Perhaps his loyalty to Madame Leung and his colleagues made it the most memorable.
• The ROOKIE: Linda vs. Aimee – Lam Ding Ding vs. Angel Chiang. Honestly, I didn’t want to put them in since it would get too personal. But since I already put the others on the table, why not? I thought both developments of their characters were about enough, not too much and not too little either. So people shouldn’t even complain about it. Both characters were meant to be cute and charming with their curiosity, etc. Both died as well. Though I must say even if they dressed Linda in cute outfits and letting her wearing those braids, I didn’t like her that much either. I meant the character, SO don’t say I’m picking on Linda. In fact, I never forgive her for sneezing into that one evidence while Fred (Madame Leung’s brother) was doing the test for it hence causing it to become invalid, and not to mention causing trouble for Fred. (YUP, he got scold at – though he was nice enough to not blame her.) Angel, though she was too silly with her different views at times and even clash in cultures, but was more professional. Her death, I swear made sense even more – though it was frustrating. Who do I prefer than? Aimee actually. Because I never liked Linda since she started. People are throwing stuffs at me for making that decision since everyone’s putting dirt on Aimee right now. Yet I felt Aimee exuded the cute look better though she was the tomboy type of character in here.
• The OTHER FORENSIC TECHNICIAN: Fred Cheng vs. Edwin Siu – Fred Leung vs. Ken Ho. Yes, interestingly Fred was also named Fred in here though his Chinese name was different. (PHEW!) Anyway, Fred was sort of a pushover because of having a madame sister – and to complete the irony of it all, his name was actually ‘kong’ (剛) – meaning strong. Though he was really hard-working. Ken Ho, on the other hand, was a funny type of guy who wouldn’t mind striking up an argument. I thought that his character somewhat reminded me of Ray’s Shum Hung. OR was that it but they just tossed him toward the forensic side so it was less obvious? Yet both managed to deliver even if there was lack of screen time for Fred.
• The OTHER GIRL COP: Vivien Yeo vs. Jessie Shum -  Josie vs. Calorie. Lack of memory, but I remember Vivien’s character, Josie, being in the background most of the time, except it was until she had to help the others retrieve statements from different witnesses, etc. Yet I like her being around with the rest of the team. Calorie was the loud one in here but still had her own moments.

Goofs/Complaints/whatever else:

• The tip of scale between both teams. Though I soon got used to the teams. But I must admit the tip of scale at times for both teams – cops and forensics. Why the tip? The reason was putting both Wayne and Maggie on the forensic side (though under different specialized area). They should have separated the two to maintain equilibrium. However, was the creators’ intention to make it different from the other two installments? NOT sure. Probably so though since putting both Wayne and Maggie on the same side paved the story for their characters better as a couple, how in-sync they were, etc. But I didn’t think that Ron and Kate were useless even if Wayne and Maggie had put most of the pieces of the puzzles together. Because this was after all ‘forensic heroes’ so they had to put more stresses toward the ‘forensic’ side. Ron and Kate had action scenes when it was needed or necessary for the cases. So both teams actually collaborated quite well with one another. Not too bad actually if analyze a bit more.
• CSIs DO NOT carry guns. During the 7th case when Angel was in one of the rooms (the study?) collecting evidence, Hilbert (Wind’s uncle) walked in and was chatting with her on how she helped him one time in New York running after a culprit with a gun.  He had assumed that she was a cop, but she explained to him that she wasn’t because the difference between CSI of both New York (or the States?) and Hong Kong was that NY CSIs could carry guns while Hong Kong CSIs do not. YET that was basing it on the TV Series, NOT real life. Because technically in real life, CSIs DO NOT carry guns regardless in the States. SO therefore, that little detail was a glitch. Were the script-writers basing it on those TV Series instead of doing actual research on the real CSIs in the States? CSIs could only carry pepper sprays – if they wanted something to protect themselves. I wanted to let it go. YET I couldn’t because they repeated it again in a later episode so I didn’t want to let it go.
• A Hana Kimi took over? I’m so serious here! I know it’s a coincidence and could happen to anyone (or probably from other series too). But I couldn’t help thinking of it when they mentioned Ken Ho’s character not being able to drink wine or he would go crazy. Later it was revealed that he would go on a kissing rampage. Same as what happened with Quan in Hana Kimi when he got drunk (and had kissed the main girl too).
• Eva’s death and the aftermaths. Was it just me or it seemed like they moved forward in two shakes? YES, Pro Sir did blame himself for not answering to her suggestion/request YET Wind had told him to not feel guilty but focused on solving the case to seek justice for Eva. SO that part made sense. Yet I honestly hoped the ending was like several months later OR until Pro Sir and Eva’s kid recovered. ‘Cause she cried like mad when her parents divorced and all. SO it would be too strange to see her all happy and looking forward to Pro Sir and Mandy’s wedding. According to some exchanges between them and Ken Ho that Ken had asked for a leave to go take care of Angel’s situation and returning the ashes to her parents in the States. SO I hope some time had passed for everyone to recover regarding Eva as well.
• Were the cases too easy? This is NOT a complaint on my part but more like I heard some people talking about it. I think it was in a sense. YET the deduction made it fascinating. Even if the cases seemed too brainless or wasn’t as complex as the cases in the first installment but it wasn’t too unreasonable either. Why not? If comparing to CSIs/Criminal Minds/ those other ones, not every one of those cases had to be so mind blowing to make it a case, right? Let’s just file these under the every day type of crime. It wasn’t too unreasonable because people nowadays might just kill for no reason. NOT a good or reassuring to know what type of messed up environment we might live in. Yet it wasn’t too off either. The only complaint I had was Wind’s case was toooo long. Okay, maybe I was just impatient that the family just pissed me off so much with their inconsiderate nature, except for Wind. SO yeah… (I put this up there at the beginning of the review already, BUT thought I would ‘bullet point’ it too! LOL!)

What made up for it all? The technology actually. And the way the deduction was made. They really managed to take advantage of the technology all right. It reminded me of one of the most recent seasons of ‘Criminal Minds’ where everyone was carrying a tablet with them. Pretty cool to think about. (Though not sure if everyone was as equipped in the real environment, lol.)

Recommended? NOT recommended if you’re going to compare it to part 1 & 2. I did it too, I know. YET I didn’t have a problem with it. Why? It’s a cop series. But I must say that it was the only series from 2011 that I managed to finish. What about the others? Dropped halfway through or somewhere along the way. OR I didn’t bother. So that said something. But maybe because I’m too easily rattled. Your choice really.

Love Together: Episode 2

*WARNING*: MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD. If you DO NOT want to be spoiled, please DO NOT read. You have been warned.

The story picked up when Xiao Yu and Xiang Xiang (Xiao Yu’s best friend since childhood – portrayed by Su Yan Pei) went to the doctor’s clinic to get some food for Xiao Yu’s dog. They found an intruder there – whom both girls attacked without caring for an explanation. Push came to shove and the guy ended up getting hit over the head with something. Minor injury but soon things were resolved when Uncle Zhu arrived in time and explained it was only his grand-nephew, Ah Bao (portrayed by Kurt Chou). Though the problem didn’t end there because the victim obviously wasn’t going to let it slide, even calling the girls crazy for attacking him before he could even explain. So it was revealed that because Ah Bao was misbehaving (or was mixing with the wrong crowd in Taipei) hence his mother sending him to Uncle Zhu’s place to curve his attitude. Seeing the situation was steering toward more than hectic, Xiao Yu soon jumped in to apologize about her rash actions previously. However, Ah Bao brushed it off and scolded her, even going overboard with calling them all names. That, of course, made Uncle Zhu even more upset over the matter, scolding Ah Bao and telling him to get lost – if he didn’t want to stick around. (It was also revealed that Ah Bao had gone into trouble with some gang leader in Taipei hence his mother sending him to Uncle Zhu’s place to hide.) But Ah Bao didn’t give up because he switched tactic, stating that the place was his mother’s right? (The doctor’s clinic – that was.) The result? Ah Bao threw them all out, saying that they couldn’t have a say in the whole matter anyway. So there went the plan with Uncle Zhu letting Xiao Yu and her mother moved in that place. So the rest of the group had to meet up and think the matter over again – regarding Xiao Yu’s family situation.

After much debate, it seemed hopeless with just arguing over which method was right. Since Xiao Yu’s mother didn’t want to pressure Uncle Zhu, that left them with little choice. Xiang Xiang, upon seeing Zhong Ze’s car, jumped out and asked him to help them. Yet Xiao Yu interfered and told Xiang Xiang not to cause more troubles. But Zhong Ze insisted on returning to Taipei to see if he could come up with another plan to help them. (False offer here but they had no idea, thinking he was actually trying to help them. This was revealed in the scene later that night when he was chatting with Ah Sir on MSN.)

When Zhong Ze went out for a walk that night (probably just need a breath of fresh air after all that work he was doing ), he saw Xiao Yu sitting at her tent. He made a move to leave her alone but she called him back and insisted that he sat there with her. So he did. They watched the night sky together and she revealed that she had went to Taipei to work at one point. (So she wasn’t so oblivious to the world outside of General Street.) Out of the blues, she confided in him about going to the landlady and begged her to change her mind regarding the place yet there was no use. (Well, he pretended not to know since he already seen that part earlier in the day when he drove by there and actually stopped to witness the scene.) He decided to reassure her about her still able to visit the place (since she said that it was probably about time she said goodbye to the place). Yet she stressed it was different. Like a typical protagonist, she went on passionately about it was their home and how they had been there since forever hence developing feelings toward everything so it wasn’t the same as coming back to visit, etc. And it was too funny that through his attempt to half discourage but also tried to comfort her, he reminded her of her capabilities hence her claiming that she would go to Taipei with him tomorrow morning to seek out her friend for help. (NICE going, Zhong Ze. He wasn’t the only one stumped. I was too since I thought she would be super silly with only begging Heaven to help. Hey, it was sort of far-fetched that she would succeed in this case, but at least she was thinking of realistic actions.) Look at his expression when she thanked him for cheering her on! LOL! OMG, that was priceless!

The next day, they set off after some mushy goodbye scenes between Xiao Yu and the villagers. Honestly, it looked like they were sending her off to some far, far away place since it seemed to be endless with all the instructions and precautions. But they finally were on their way.

Yet on the ride, Xiao Yu fell asleep in the car and Zhong Ze had to wake her up. And for the record, waking her up required calling ‘Xiao Yu’ three times, NOT just once. Well, he just can’t shake her away in some barbaric way, right? He was a gentleman after all – regardless of his underlying motives or actions seen elsewhere. But I was wrong, he wasn’t such a gentleman after all because he shooed her out of his car, claiming that she did not need to accompany him regarding the other matter. Well, if he let her follow him, he would be exposed with the fake meeting.

Watching the next few scenes with her unfruitful meetings and his day full of relaxation made me want to smack him over the head with something. Yet had to admit she did want to come along and take care of her own plans. So… (But it seemed like it was several days, not just one day since he had gone home to change? And she did as well. Probably staying elsewhere and had some rest?)

Well, he finally called her up and said he was ready to go back. So they met up. Of course he told her his attempt with the persuasion was unsuccessful. He was scolding her for the silly plan? That was kind of funny though since he guessed the amount of the money and was surprised but she soon corrected him. And that was so cute with her hooking her hands through his and dragging him away. (And he didn’t mind.)

As if that wasn’t enough for their adventure already, they returned home and ran into a pregnant girl asking about Ah Bao’s whereabouts. Seeing the girl’s stomach, Xiao Yu was forming her own opinions. But they didn’t have to assume or ponder long because Ah Bao soon appeared and the girl went over to give him a piece of her mind. (Why was Ah Ze looking like he was enjoying the show?) Before they could investigate any further about who was wrong (though they had an impression that Ah Bao was the party in the wrong), they had to rush the girl to the hospital since her stomach was hurting and needed medical attention pronto.

After much waiting, Zhong Ze persuaded Xiao Yu to leave (since he could see that she was unusually cold) but she insisted on waiting a bit more. What happened next? Duh, she fell asleep on his shoulder (and he had to drape his jacket over her.) It wasn’t like her jacket wasn’t thick enough but it was because she was getting sick (without knowing it – or more like wanting to hide it from him and even lied to herself). After what seemed like forever, they were informed that ‘mother and daughter were both fine’ so Ah Bao was more than relief while Xiao Yu congratulated him. She had no idea. (LOL!)

IF anyone was wondering if their little adventure was done for the day yet, it wasn’t. Not really. Because after Zhong Ze took Xiao Yu home and stared at her as she walked away with her mother (YUP, he was staring), Xiang Xiang called Xiao Yu up to tell her about some incident. Of course Xiao Yu had to rush to the site to see for herself. Not to mention needing to stop the matter. It was at the building of that company that wanted to buy their lands. Dan Zhu (Uncle Zhu’s son) and Xiong Mao had led a group of people there to protest, etc. When they got there, Xiao Yu and Xiang Xiang managed to surpass the security guards in front but there was still someone inside (of course) so Xiang Xiang jumped in to stop him while Xiao Yu fled elsewhere.

Xiao Yu managed to escape from the security guard but ran into trouble again. She needed to use the restrooms but the ‘ladies rooms’ were closed for cleaning so she had to go to the ‘men’s rooms’ instead but the stall she entered ran out of paper so she had to get crafty, asking for paper in both Mandarin and English (since she heard someone outside). It was actually Zhong Ze on the other side but he kept quiet and just handed the paper to her by tossing it craftily inside. She thanked him but he just left. Though after she got out, she fainted and he must had heard the crashing sounds from the inside and returned in time to carry her to the hospital. That also caused Zhong Ze to miss his appointment with the landlady of that one place AND was not able to meet the goal. At the hospital, Zhong Ze found out that Xiao Yu caught a cold but it wasn’t severe (through his fierce look since Xiao Yu didn’t want Xiang Xiang to say it at first). Yup, that was from when she was drenched in the rain and then sat in the hospital with the AC blasting away previously. It was so funny how he was looking at her with disapproval and she looked like a timid kid. (SO CUTE regardless.) And he still dared to question her presence at the company? She stepped out of her timid shell and demanded an explanation as well. (OMG! That was so slick, he dodged right out of it with that explanation? Okay, he was slick all right. Poor those two. They had no idea.) But that was so cute with Xiang Xiang’s description with how Zhong Ze was carrying Xiao Yu like a prince carrying sleeping beauty. (OY, if only they knew.) Then Dan Zhu called to tell them the good news that the landlady’s meeting didn’t go well so they were celebrating – with Xiao Yu calling it a miracle. Yet if she only knew it was because she fainted that prevented the incident from happening. Okay, more like a delay but still. (Short version of what happened next: Zhong Ze got scolded by Li Li, and he went home and took it out on Xiao Yu. YET they all mistook it for his caring for her health too much hence scolding at her for exerting herself too much. NICE?)

Back to the land acquirement matter, Li Li had to step in and interfered before they were able to sign that deed. (Li Li’s actually the boss’ grand-daughter and was overseeing the land acquirement project and had previously let Zhong Ze handled matters on his own, trusting his abilities. Yet because of other matter, she was disappointed in him temporarily.) That also severed Xiao Yu’s chance to collect enough money to purchase the land back from the other party. Devastated, Xiao Yu ran off to cry it all out, feeling so helpless and frustrated. She really have to leave now, not being able to change anything. (Ye Jia Yu could really cry. That scene was really touching and made the rest of us want to smack Zhong Ze even more.)

Though breaking down previously, but Xiao Yu bravely comforted Xiang Xiang during the goodbye moments. It was too ironic that Xiao Yu’s mother had to apologize to Zhong Ze regarding how he got kicked out so soon though he just moved in recently. She wanted to return the deposit to him but he didn’t accept. Lucky Xiang Xiang’s mother interfered and told Xiao Yu’s mother to keep it. (They had no idea it was his guilt coming into play instead of the whole ‘good-natured’ as they were claiming.) All wasn’t lost because Xiao Yu and her mother soon got a break when Uncle Zhu decided to let Xiao Yu stay at Ah Bao’s place (aka kicking Ah Bao out). The decision was made after one of his confrontations with Ah Bao. (Ah Bao’s biker friends came and caused another misunderstanding – though they didn’t mean to. NOT really.)

So they waited nearby as Uncle Zhu talked on the phone, explaining the situation to Ah Bao’s mother. Xiang Xiang was even touched by Uncle Zhu’s persistence in helping them. That inspired Xiao Yu to talk about her fellow simple-minded townspeople. They seemed silly to others yet they were all heart, unlike those cold-blooded, etc, etc. Yup, she seriously went on and on, causing her mother to put a hand on her shoulder – and even Xiang Xiang trying to signal to her with her eyes. Xiao Yu finally got it after much patting from her mother and turned to Zhong Ze, clapping his shoulder – and reassuring him that she wasn’t talking about him. (BUT seriously, she might as well be.) Well, the good news was – after Uncle Zhu got off the phone – they were able to stay. YET the bad news was – after much sweet talk from Xiang Xiang’s mother to Ah Bao’s mother – that they had to take care of Ah Bao. Uncle Zhu wanted to turn her down YET Xiang Xiang’s mother grabbed the phone in time, LOL! Yup, Uncle Zhu refused to come back on the phone SO Xiang Xiang’s mother had to hand it to her husband to be the middle-man aka vouching that they would help her tame Ah Bao. (LOL!) Moving on….Xiang Xiang was wondering if it was possible Uncle Zhu would let Zhong Ze stay too. AND Zhong Ze jumped in to turn them down YET they were too into helping him to care. SO he had no choice but to move in as well. But Zhong Ze was pondering about Ah Bao. How in the world were they going to divide the habitats between the four of them now?

YUP, the result was Zhong Ze and Ah Bao were fighting for the room upstairs. They wouldn’t hear or care to stop and acknowledge Uncle Zhu’s words until he mentioned about old rooms having odd things. YUP, along the lines of strange insects or other types of living things around. We all know who’s scared of which now, eh? Who won? Well, Zhong Ze was faster and shoved Ah Bao into the room since they were basing it on whoever enter the room first would get it. Well, if it wasn’t for Xiao Yu’s dog, Ah Bao wouldn’t lose as easily. But it was soooo funny seeing two grown men fighting over a room like that. It also boggles my mind how Zhong Ze could be so professional, fierce, ruthless, and even bordering on the side of despicable yet he was so silly at that time? Or were their personalities influencing him bit by bit without him knowing it? (And Zhong Ze was scared of rats? Or was he just grossed out by it? Anything was possible really!)

The battle between the two men didn’t end there because Ah Bao was out to get Zhong Ze again, thinking that he could outwit Zhong Ze. (LOL) Yeah, he saw Xiao Yu’s mother carrying all those boxes so he had an idea, wanting to see Zhong Ze doing all the labor work so he told Zhong Ze that Xiao Yu’s mother was looking for Zhong Ze. (Double LOL) Ah Bao was really getting a kick out of it since he was just finding a spot and standing nearby to witness the scene unfold. Yet he had no idea trouble was waiting for him around the corner. Well, namely Xiao Yu’s dog trying to get him again. LOL! He thought the dog wanted to go again so he told the dog to go away YET the dog advanced on him, causing him to take a step back – until he tripped backward and fell into Zhong Ze and Xiao Yu’s mother’s path while they were trying to carry some boxes. NICE? Someone up there was definitely watching and didn’t want to  let Ah Bao get away with it. Yet Ah Bao was apologizing for his actions? Yup, he really didn’t do it on purpose. But it was still so funny. What next? Xiao Yu’s mother decided to separate the two by assigning one to pack stuffs up at the tea shop. So Zhong Ze gave Ah Bao the look and he went. (LOL!) And they resumed work after Ah Bao left. So funny how Zhong Ze pasted on his sweet smile once again as he helped Xiao Yu’s mother. Trying to score points with future mother in law? (JUST KIDDING…but yeah…)

When Ah Bao arrived at the tea shop, he found some people at work and there was no signs of the shop hence him calling Xiao Yu’s mother back to confirm of the shop’s whereabouts. Xiang Xiang’s mother soon arrived at the scene to spout with the person responsible. It was none other than Yao Shi Hong, who had vouched previously to get involved with the land acquirement project regardless of what Li Li told him not to  do. Zhong Ze, Xiao Yu, and Xiao Yu’s mother soon arrived on the scene to confront Shi Hong but before anyone could do anything, Xiang Xiang came and told Xiao Yu that people were tearing Xiao Yu’s tent down upstairs. That got a reaction all right since she ran upstairs and confronted the crew. And the episode ended when Zhong Ze told the others that if there was any source of tearing things apart around there, they would be the ones doing it.

*All images were captured by DTLCT

When Dolphin Met Cat

I finally decided to watch this for two reasons: (1) because it’s old and (2) because I just felt like it. Sometimes watching random ones interest me more than the current or most recent ones with so much hype surrounding it. So how was it? At first, I thought it was like one of those dramas that should have never been made. YES, that terrible. Not because I was impatient – though it partially had to do with that. They had a good foundation with establishing so many different characters for the main cast/characters yet they ruined it by adding in all the cliches formulas and dragged it until it was so unbearable. The reason why I even stick around until the end was because I wanted to see how much more pathetic it was and I was in the hope of seeing how the ending was or if the ending made sense at all. And I was glad I stuck behind since afterward, the more I thought about it, it wasn’t as bad. In fact, it made a lot more sense than some other dramas out there. But maybe there was some better way to approach some topics versus how it sort of scatter all over the place at one point or another. And because of my frustration throughout, I decided to revamp the previous version of my review to a more appropriate context. It still sounded harsh but I had tried really hard to edit out some comments and consider the first version to just be some notes. Though I did keep some stuffs from the previous versions, like specific scenes because I felt it was necessary or if it was hilarious to mention.

So what about the main cast?

• Eddie Peng as Xu Wei (徐蔚). Wei just recently lost his best friend and then his grandfather so he has disconnected himself from all his friends, leaving to a place called Hua Lian. After listening to his story about how his name came about, I wanted to hug him. NOT just because he’s portrayed by Eddie BUT that was just too sad. (Then it makes one think of arranged marriage and all those craps. But still NOT an excuse to cheat or whatever else that his father did. If the father didn’t like it, then leave NOT wait and harm someone else and then acted all pitiful. Considering this day and age, it’s ridiculous to say he didn’t have any control over things.) Wei was so passive for the majority of the drama and it made sense because of what happened yet when he finally opened up (and some flashback scenes), he was pretty normal. Eddie was able to convince with his passive nature and at times the stubborn nature. Then there was the kind-hearted one as well. Eddie was able to capture these elements and made the character more interesting and easier to relate to. However, just to be fair to others in here, I even got quite annoyed with him and possibly of character inconsistency at various points but his acting didn’t waver.
• Angela Chang as Ning Ying Zi (甯英子). Losing two friends – one to death and the other to depression, she had no choice but to leave after the failed attempt to talk to Xu Wei. I can’t make up my mind to like her or not because of how I was slightly annoyed (or possibly very annoyed) that she confided to Ying Ying so easily of the three’s friendship. (Since it would be too unfair to pick on Ying Ying only when Ying Zi was the one telling the story.) Then there was also the whole entrusting the task of handing over some of Wang Hai’s belongings to Xu Wei. It was too much for me to bear. Yet I tried to hang on. On other things though, she seriously appeared so little for the main lead. I wished she was more involved in the plot though. Or was Angela’s schedule too busy? Because if Ying Zi loved him, she would have been more persistent and would try to go through the harsh times with him, not leaving like that and let some other girl do all the deeds. It could only be explained that Angela’s busy AND not because Ying Zi’s so lame like that. It’s honestly too extreme to have her return like around episode 10. Like honestly? The story is almost over. But I swear, the words she said at the pier that night was worth more tears than anyone’s combined in the last 10 episodes. YES, probably bias but I swear I found her more sincere than the rest for some reason. NOT just because I’m a fan since I was really annoyed of her character too or the script-writers for making it seemed so strange that she was gone for soooo long. But then when some details were filled in again, I wanted to forgive her for giving up that one time. Favorism? No, more like it had been years since Wang Hai passed away so that meant Ying Zi had been trying and trying all these years and then somehow the story just got moved forward and focused more on the others, especially more on Xu Wei’s healing process than her. But I still find it so disturbing she confided to Ying Ying that one time. It made sense that she told Ah Wen many things since she was going crazy (almost) and how they both thought Xu Wei didn’t make it hence the rambling on. Yet with Ying Ying that one time? Didn’t make sense.
• Joelle Lu as Joelle Su Ting (蘇婷). Funny that they were being lazy and used her real English name in here. But that was okay. I found her graceful and composed in here. Kind of a different role for Joelle. I meant I saw her in more of the rouge or daring roles than this type of roles. But I guess it was the typical businesswoman role so can’t have the “too many wild” of a side to her. AND being a businesswoman didn’t dull her character either because there was this mysterious side to her that showed somewhat in episode 4, making us wonder behind that hardworking attitude of hers. Man, mad graceful! Yup, I loved the scene in the rain with Peter in episode 7 where she let go of the umbrella. Like I thought she would somehow caved in since most characters in here have disappointed me already. Yet she was the only one keeping firm on her words and meaning it. Not to mention how she didn’t cave in either when he attempted to hug her. She actually told him off and walked away. Sure, she loved him deeply but she wasn’t so blinded after being hurt for so long. He had better jump some hoops to win her heart over again.
• Ken Chang as Tang Zhong Yue (唐中嶽). Nicknamed Tang Tang by closed friends. A typical poor, rich guy role. Yet he always wanted to learn how to make Western desserts and served as an apprentice under a famous chef. His recent plot consisted of swapping identity with his best friend Shao Peng so they could fulfill their wishes within three months. Being spoiled and talented at the same time was a dangerous formula. Yet I find him entertaining to watch in many ways since he always managed to come up with some schemes to get his way. Being a young master makes him annoying at times yet it’s somewhat hilarious as well. I think it has to do with Ken’s acting and his ability to exude his charm since I was about to give up on him at times in the beginning, but he managed to make it work as the story goes. What I found the most annoying about him (yes, that was the part where I was struggling whether to like him or hate him or just let him stay in the middle) was how he promised Alice to give the chief chef the ingredients/recipe for the order YET he didn’t deliver. What the heck? That was so irresponsible and he still dared brag about his abilities. Should I give him more points for hating on Peter? I swear he’s so funny talking on and on about how much he hates that dude. LOL! Or more like he’s saying how that dude would used such despicable ways to climb the ladder. Yet wasn’t he using his connections too? OR was it because using someone with the whole ‘love’ thing was more wrong? Who knows. Great performance overall.
• Ben Bai as Peter (徐永達). OMG! How could he do that? It doesn’t make it any better that he loves Su Ting the most, BUT using others to get his ways? It doesn’t matter if the other girl flirts with him or not. He has no right to take advantage of her like that. AND I think I must give Ah Ben credit for his acting since I really want to beat him up so much throughout. Yet I almost felt like those idiots deserved it all with being deceived by him, especially Shao Peng. And not to mention how Ah Ben was so convincing during the last few episodes of how he was really sincere and dedicated to Su Ting. I meant I wouldn’t want to root for the evilness that much, but then I think Ah Ben did quite a job of acting that looked quite sincere in the later parts. So he used some underhand techniques, but wasn’t he fighting for his love? Not like people who would just say stuffs yet didn’t do anything. I’m not encouraging evil ways. But I’m just saying just because someone had used the wrong method before doesn’t mean they should be condemn forever. Someone else had to fall for it, right? It made him less fake because he was willing to admit later on how he had done all of those things – and for the first time in history of the fictional world, it was really for Su Ting. NOT like how it was tossed around by the evil guy as an excuse.
• Ke Yu Lun (柯宇綸) as Wei Shao Peng (魏少朋). An unlucky guy who wanted to enter hotel management and was quite hardworking in improving his English. Got lured in by his best friend Tang Tang to swap identities but he found it impossible and didn’t want to use that type of connections to learn. I’m so annoyed with him during episode 5 and 6 from time to time. YES, he had every right to be frustrated and mad at Tang Tang and himself or whoever else since he made the wrong choice when joining in the conspiracy. YET did he have to mix with Peter? Honestly! Sometimes, I think he deserves to be tricked. HONESTLY! So frustrating. By episode 8, I want to personally drown him! GOD! How could he reveal Tang Tang’s password to Peter? YES, definitely demoting him to the 18th Level of Hell. Honestly, that was sooooo dumb. Tang Tang trusted in him AND he went and gave away Tang Tang’s password just like that? Too bitter, didn’t fight but would want to reap. (His tossing the wedding invitation away.) Though by the time I got the pieces of the puzzles and could sympathy with Peter more, but his actions during those times in the middle were quite frustrating. It was like he didn’t know who to trust or trust so easily that he fell for the preys but didn’t blame himself. Just blame other people. How old is he? So naive. Though there were other characters in here that who had quite a gentle heart too but I felt he was the weakest in not knowing how to take care of himself. Who could he blame but himself then?
• Monie Tung as Li Niang Ying (李念英). Tang Tang’s childhood crush. A hardworking person. At first, I feel like I like her. Maybe because it was from Tang Tang’s point of view and obsession. Yet somehow, I find her too trying and annoying later on. Maybe it was because of Xu Wei’s point of view and passiveness toward the people around him. AND not to mention how it was annoying and beyond nosy that she was spying on Xu Wei and Ying Zi’s conversation when the two met again. I meant okay, it was an accident at first since they just happened to be standing in front of her place. YET what about when she knew? She kept eavesdropping and made it her business when it wasn’t. Then out came the story with their friendship (aka Xu Wei, Ying Zi, and Wang Hai). So I could blame Ying Zi for telling Ying Ying about it, BUT that was an annoying scene all right. I love to learn more about the friendship YET not through that conversation. I felt it would be better if Xu Wei told it instead. OR it would be too much of his bias and grief-stricken words than the actual truth? AND sticking in the fact that Ying Ying has this incurable disease doesn’t get sympathy points from me. I don’t know. I felt her character too cliches and her acting doesn’t bring it out either. Talking about acting, I felt she looked too bored – regardless if she tried to keep the sincere smile on her face or not – when Ying Zi was telling her the story. Maybe she didn’t want to listen but it contradicted her nosy glances earlier. Maybe if it was some other girl portraying this role, she might bring out the character better. I don’t know. AND maybe having Ying Zi tell the story to Su Ting would be more relevant and making the scene much more meaningful. I meant I know Ying Ying have to find out somehow BUT Monie’s expressions are not convincing enough. Having Joelle and Angela doing that scene might be better because I’m sure Su Ting would be as worried for Xu Wei after that strange encounter. YUP, I could see more and more of Ying Ying’s nosy nature showing as she tried to probe into Xu Wei’s life, NOT compassion or sincerity. Though I know the character possesses those two personalities. I just can’t see it the way Monie portrays it. She’s trying too hard to be cute and charming. AND I think Xu Wei nailed it when he finally told it to her face that she was too nosy. Honestly, she IS. The fake bomb incident proves her nosy nature even more. GOD, when will she stop meddling in places that do not concern her? What’s with her lecturing others? Okay, so she’s concerned for Shao Peng and all BUT I find it annoying that she keeps interfering with others’ businesses. By the time she was congratulating Xu Wei about his acceptance into the dolphin place, I had no idea if the character was too trying or Monie was too trying BECAUSE honestly, it was just too trying no matter how you look at it. Trying to make conversation, trying to be nice, you name it. Trying to be those things so she could probe even more. If she’s so kind and nice and loves helping others, there are millions out there, NOT just Xu Wei so that excuse doesn’t slide with me regarding her character. YUP, she doesn’t know when to stop, honestly. Like Xu Wei said ‘good night’ all these times and she still didn’t get it, kept trying and trying and trying to the point that he finally walked away. I was glad he dropped his polite attempt altogether. There was no point talking to her anyway. And she still dared to call him Weirdo? He didn’t ask her to care. YUP, 200% nosy all right. Honestly, I really hate to pick on her all the time but the signs are showing and showing even more that it’s hard to ignore. I’m serious, the part where she let it loose with Sky liking Quan Ge when she picked up the cake for Sky from Alice was just too much. OMG, I can’t figure out her personality anymore. I meant I know it’s good that her personality isn’t so one-sided or too one layer, BUT it’s annoying that it seems too fake with so much liveliness in it at times YET so freaking gentle that it’s corny at other moments. Now that I got started, what else is there to pick about? Honestly, stop wearing so thin of a clothing. It’s really cliches. I hate that the most in dramas ’cause though it seems romantic or manly that some guy takes his jacket off for the girl, etc BUT it’s so cliches and makes the girl dumb since she doesn’t know seem to own a coat or is brainless or something. I’m sure it wasn’t Monie’s fault ’cause she had to follow the script with this stuff, but I’m hinting at the scriptwriter and director for making such a lame character by adding that. LAME! AND just when I thought I was done, there was the littering thing with the can. Sure, she wasn’t tossing the can somewhere on the floor/ground YEt it still qualifies as littering when she left it there. YEAH, I get it that the purpose was to inform Xu Wei she was there, but so what? Better find another technique. Blame the director and script-writer again since they had to use that method. With all those rants, maybe I should compliment her a little AND because I honestly want to – not because I’m trying to make up for my picking on her character. What’s good about her? Or at least what makes me like her – if just a little? Her persistent in keeping a distance from Tang Tang and other men who she wasn’t interested in. Maybe that was more admirable than just flirting – or seem to be treating everyone the same, causing even more misunderstandings. YES, often the supposedly kind and nice girl would have that wishy-washy personality that would drive us insane by creating even more misunderstandings. Yet she tried to stay away from others – even if that meant sad for Tang Tang, but she wasn’t so clueless as to think everyone could be friends. YES, she tried to stand up for Shao Peng and tell Tang Tang to stop with his schemes, but she wasn’t acting all close with both guys versus her wanting to be close to Xu Wei. Though I found it quite annoying since I wasn’t rooting for her regarding Xu Wei, but must give her points for NOT making it even more confusing as to who she likes. AND for being known as a considerate, kind, and nice person I don’t know how she could be so inconsiderate of others, especially about Quan Ge’s situation. I wanted to slap her so much (YES, no longer care about restraining to pick on her because I quit) in the beginning of episode 8 when she begged Quan Ge to start the ‘not bringing An An over tomorrow’ instead of like Quan Ge planned. So Ah Wen forgot to tell her, BUT Quan Ge have his difficulties too. He can’t just back off every single time. It doesn’t matter what her relationship status is like at that moment OR who she likes since that’s her life. YET wanting others to cave in to her every demand was ridiculous. She looked like she was remembering her script in episode 14 when Xu Wei asked her about Tang Tang taking her to the States for treatment? *shrugs* I don’t know why since I usually like multi-demisional girl yet I can’t seem to figure her out because she’s all over the place. I think it wouldn’t be too much if I pick on both Monie and the script. So she can’t change it but the way she portrayed it made it hard to sympathize with her or see how she was. And the script didn’t help either with trying to squeeze everything in. Other actors/actresses in here, even Ke Yu Lun (though his character was quite annoying because I hate that type of cowardly character) managed to be convincing in portraying his character more. And her character wasn’t supposed to be that annoying – as oppose to Shao Peng – yet she couldn’t convince? So I’m not just picking on her here. I did consider the other characters/actors too.
• Patrick Li (李沛旭) as Ah Wen (阿文). Kind of rouge but I guess he has his ways hence Quan Ge still keeping him around. Then I found him kind of interesting as well with his righteous streak at times. I thought he was some sort of bully at first for picking on the newbie yet there was this side of him that came out and it showed that he was just protecting himself and his principles from being disturbed by others. Then I take his points away again by episode 8 because he didn’t trust Quan Ge enough. He was blinded by his own biases and how he didn’t get the Japan position. Was Quan Ge wrong? He honestly wants to go there? And not to mention how he accused Quan Ge of such things like sucking up to others. YES, Quan Ge wanted to break Xu Wei and Ying Ying up but that wasn’t the whole story. He was so biased that he assumed away instead of asking directly or investigate further. (If he wanted to go that far.) Then I reconsider and forgive him again. Like perhaps his rash actions fitted with his stubborn behavior. I don’t know. Mixed feelings throughout.
• Zhou Wen Xian as Lu Qi. A somewhat rogue guy but somewhat humorous at times as well. He’s the typical character who would find any means to make money. However, haven’t really gone to the other side quite yet. I found him to be one of my favorite characters later on since he seemed to display the whole money-grubbing exterior yet he valued friendship and love more than half of the characters in here that only talked with their mouths. He provided a great comedy relief for the show as an overall. No complain here. YES, finally.
• Na Wei Xun as Quan Zhi Xian. A dolphin trainer. A very patience and understanding type of guy. He has a cool exterior but is very kind inside. I really like his character though he seems to be somewhat in the background, guiding them, supporting them throughout. Yet one of the things I could never forgive was causing Xu Wei’s family crisis. It doesn’t matter if the others didn’t blame him, it still happened – whether accidental or whatever. He still sided with them – on some level. Perhaps his reason for not cutting off ties with some people was because how Ying Ying’s mother had treated him like a real brother. But I just can’t see it as that way with the loyalty and all. That’s just me though.
• Joy Pan as Alice Guo. Interesting character with a strict personality. Yes, of course she has this gentle and sweet side to her hence creating desserts and all. I really like her character as well. Quite stern and all but she always meant well. At least she’s straightforward. She’s very blunt and admirable. I must credit her also for her careful nature (i.e. testing the cakes before delivering them to their guests). It really reduce dramas around their lives and made it more realistic because I honestly believe people would test stuffs before delivering it – unlike how other dramas often want to make everyone careless to create another obstacle on purpose. (One of the times when I actually want to clap the script-writers on.) I actually wish they had focused on her more and on some others less. Or maybe she was less focused on that made her less annoying? So I guess I shouldn’t be too greedy because the script-writers might get too happy and somehow destroy her character’s foundation as well.
• Guo Shi Lun as Orlando. Found him quite annoying at the beginning. But as the drama progressed, I rather side with him than the other idiots in here. At least he’s straight-forward about his intentions and his bullying routines. AND I found his taunting funny at times, especially when he was saying how he rather go kiss a sea lion’s ass than be like the manager, kissing up to everyone. That was priceless!

Friendships:

• Tang Tang and Shao Peng. I find their friendship hilarious. I guess they just have to be from the two extremes in order to bring out the humor. OMG! Tang Tang’s teaching Shao Peng all the tricks to be him and dramatic. Sure, it has been done numerous times already with people switching identities and trying to teach each other of the habits, but I see more of the girls doing it than the guys so this is definitely worth laughing over and watching the process unfold. More about Tang Tang teaching Shao Peng than the other way around but very funny still. Tang Tang would get so upset when Shao Peng’s not using his emotions when he say his lines, LOL! More emotions! LOL! Regardless of how scared Shao Peng is of Tang Tang at times but I found it extremely touching that Shao Peng would stand up for Tang Tang when Ying Ying was saying all those things about Tang Tang, misunderstanding him. I guess because Tang Tang doesn’t look down on Shao Peng and would always hang out with him hence the loyalty. AND it honestly prove Ying Ying wrong that she doesn’t know Tang Tang at all when there was the scene where the guys were in the kitchen together and Tang Tang was trying to make a cake for Ying Ying using substitute sugar. I guess if it doesn’t concern her or if she doesn’t care, then she doesn’t want to pay attention, BUT she seriously has no right in chiding Tang Tang when she doesn’t even know him at all. She doesn’t even know how serious he could get and how caring he could be – when he wasn’t too off with his schemes. He even remember about his promise to her YET does she still care? Guess not! Anyway, watching Tang Tang and Shao Peng always cracks me up because they’re such opposites and although Tang Tang would throw around words of insults yet Shao Peng doesn’t mind – or too slow to mind, lol. Then there’s the whole trying to help Shao Peng from time to time so their covers aren’t blown, lol. The time where I want to strangle Shao Peng the most was not listening to Tang Tang and socializing with Peter. GOD! He should shut up and not talk to that guy. AND he had to do it. Sure, they were busted but he should go to Tang Tang and yell at Tang Tang OR do whatever else. NOT talk to Peter. I want to beat him up so bad for that. Then he did go confront Tang Tang YET the two made it so much of a joke that I want to beat both up as well – just to be fair to Shao Peng. I guess their pact of friendship was tested major time after the whole exposure. I honestly wish there was something to hold onto. YET this friendship was also a joke. So they managed to get past all that after a fight initiated by Tang Tang at the beginning of episode 8. But let’s see for how long before Peter tricks Shao Peng again. We learned from episode 13 that Tang Tang learned to love from Korean drams? JUST KIDDING, but that was funny. Yet I must admit he’s more persistent, determined, and courageous comparing to Shao Peng. Though it could seem nagging but at least he won’t regret if he loses since he has done everything he could and wants to. Unlike Shao Peng who’s always pitying himself and has too big of a pride. YES, Tang Tang has his pride too but he doesn’t let it stop him from his achievements. Yes, Tang Tang has the advantage since he has a rich background but he also has perseverance hence coming this far. AND he’s so right in scolding Shao Peng for being cowardly. Honestly, he’s so right and funny too for saying that Shao Peng could only catch a small fish since he waits for the fish to come to the hook. He’s being mean, but in a way, it’s his way to encourage Shao Peng on, not wanting Shao Peng to give up. Their exchange at the ocean side when Shao Peng discovered that Tang Tang had lost his sight summed up their friendship (AND finally restored my faith in them) because Tang Tang was saying how he was not able to watch out for Shao Peng anymore. Sounds arrogant, but it was true. Even if Tang Tang couldn’t help with everything but he had always tried to support Shao Peng as best as he could in the past.
• Xu Wei and Ah Wen. I never imagined they would get along so fast. I meant I thought Ah Wen would be the bully until near the end where they somehow reach an understanding OR something along that lame. (Yes, I meant ‘lame’ and not ‘line’.) Yet they had their differences but managed to see through each other’s good sides quickly. It wasn’t out of jealousy or spike that Ah Wen shove Xu Wei into the pool that one time. He was just acting on his principles. Then Xu Wei soon saw Ah Wen’s righteous side as well, not holding a grudge either. It wasn’t fake either. It was just one of those guy things. No need to say anything really. I couldn’t guess that Ah Wen was the one helping Xu Wei conquering his fear of water either. I meant okay, the first punch sort of hinted it, BUT didn’t realize it would be that way with Ah Wen helping Xu Wei step-by-step like that. AND then by episode 8, I think they got into the ‘Hating Quan Ge’ club together hence the attitude toward him. Honestly? That was low! Xu Wei might not know better since he didn’t know Quan Ge as much YET Ah Wen? No excuses. Just when I thought I was watching because I only wanted to finish without leaving out details for this review, they surprised me with the part in episode 13 when Ah Wen was telling Xu Wei all these tips and telling him not to be nervous, etc. It was hilarious with Xu Wei asking, “Mom, can I go to school yet?” LOL! Priceless!
• Tang Tang and Lu Qi. I swear I thought they would be love rivals at the beginning – with how Ying Ying’s hanging out with Lu Qi (mostly for work), BUT I was sooo wrong. Anyway, their relationship could not really be considered as friendship. At least not at first, but I found their random interactions extremely funny. Like the part where Lu Qi was mumbling about that magical piece of wood that would earn him big money hence laughing away and Tang Tang was shaking his head, thinking that Lu Qi was crazy. Then that night, Tang Tang was confronting Shao Peng about his wanting to quit the role switching scheme AND Lu Qi scolded Tang Tang for being loud and jinxing the piece of wood, so Tang Tang had to apologize to the magical wood. LOL! Oh yeah, not sure if it beat other parts, but their conversation in episode 12 was so funny as well. The part where Lu Qi was analyzing the situation for Tang Tang and Tang Tang wanted him to shut up but Tang Tang sort of missed the point, LOL! So true regarding the analysis though! OMG! I didn’t see that coming but should have because Lu Qi used that chance to make money as well! LOL!
• Tang Tang, Shao Peng, and Lu Qi. I have to keep it separate instead of including some scenes into both parts regarding ‘Tang Tang and Shao Peng versus ‘Tang Tang and Lu Qi’ since I found their interactions so hilarious at times – with Tang Tang being the smartest (or at least smart aleck) while the other two clueless dudes are driving him insane, lol.
• Lu Qi and Shao Peng. I remember their exchange at the beginning was hilarious with Lu Qi not charging money if Shao Peng was in a bad mood. It was interesting that it had gone full circle again at the end. Who knew, right?
• Xu Wei and Su Ting. I didn’t plan on putting this in but had to. The advices the two exchanged in the car said a lot. Xu Wei reminded Su Ting of herself in the past while Xu Wei knew the truth behind Tang Tang and Shao Peng’s identities but didn’t reveal it. Instead, he warned Su Ting of others’ intentions. They don’t say much yet their friendship is really genuine.
• Lu Qi and Ying Ying. I didn’t realize Lu Qi was so loyal to Ying Ying. Okay. to some extent yet it made it quite interesting since I thought they were just thrown together for work and that her father wanted him to help by looking after her at work. Yet he did show support for her at various points.
• Tang Tang and Alice Guo. Okay, they’re more master and student than friends but I thought their discussions at times touched me more than other people in here. (Well, except for Quan Ge’s pep talk of course since his are the best aside from Alice’s lines.) I thought her harsh, meaningful words are more effective than some people’s fake promises or empty talks in here. And because he respects her, he takes her seriously – at least later on more than in the earlier parts. But she influenced him to turn his life around, not exuding the young master attitude so much anymore, and to be more genuine toward his work. She also taught him the truth meaning of being a chef, allowing him to be a calmer person and not act on impulse and get in touch with his inner self in order to become a good chef. It didn’t matter that his initial reason was for Ying Ying. If he put in his effort, he could master his skills. I especially like her words to him in episode 13 when they finally cracked the code of the miracle fruits.
• Xu Wei and Lu Qi. I never thought I put them in since they were basically having an owner/renter relationship aka business mostly. Yet Lu Qi pulled through by distributing those flyers for Xu Wei without charges. Then it made me remember all those other scenes with him trying to help Xu Wei without caring about money as much.
• Ying Zi and Ah Wen. I seriously didn’t want to put this in earlier because I felt it was just some casual scene they bonded when they thought Xu Wei was dead. Yet he followed up on it and kept in touch with Ying Zi throughout, even wanting to match-make for the both of them (aka Xu Wei and Ying Zi of course), which was equally cute. Funny how he was reporting Xu Wei’s expression to Ying Zi over the phone, lol.

Pairings:

• Xu Wei/Eddie and Ying Zi/Angela. Interesting pairing but I guess they do match to some extent. I was so scared that they wouldn’t end up together since she had so little screen time. Man, it was quite nerve-wrecking and I ended up watching the last few minutes of the last episode before flipping back to watch properly. They were indeed cute together as the story unfolded more. What I found really cute was the ending where they were sitting together and playing the harmonica and the tunes were the same. Back-tracking since I had cheated. Anyway, the flashback scene in episode 5 was so cute also with how he was missing her and remembering the time about the words he wrote on the soda can. In fact, the soda cans became their link and was brought back in episode 10 and 11, and lastly episode 14 when he talked about their communication method. It was indeed special. Though I hated that it dragged out the relationship with him and Ying Ying but I thought upon mentioning Ying Zi and how Ying Zi appeared, it didn’t dull their relationship at all. It was like they were one of those couples who could pick it up from where they left off ages before. (His relationship with Ying Ying harmed Tang Tang’s foundation more than Ying Zi’s, which was interesting. I guess because he spent more time with Ying Zi these past years than did Tang Tang and Ying Ying so they were less affected.)
• Tang Tang/Ken Chang and Ying Ying/Monie Tung. I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. Like I said, I like the idea and like her through Tang Tang’s cute description and some flashbacks in the beginning. Yet found her extremely annoying, more than I thought he would be. I meant I thought he would be annoying with his young master attitude at the beginning and how he was late for that one test. However, he wasn’t as annoying as I would expect but she was even though she was supposed to be the kind and gentle girl? NO clue. But I guess whatever makes him happy. Then that one time when she was speaking up for Shao Peng, she seemed to act like Tang Tang’s wife so I thought it was a bit cute and somewhat interesting. Something to ponder about YET I had to hang on, not wanting to get my hopes up too much. And by the time I reach episode 4, I felt like she doesn’t deserve him at all. YES, that coming from me when I don’t want to force people to like others. I meant, okay, she could choose whoever she likes. YET the words she said to him were so hurtful in many ways. She seemed to be a considerate person – or from what others see of her and the way her image was projected thus far, but she said all those things to Tang Tang? He doesn’t have feeling? Just because he’s rich and spoiled, he doesn’t have feelings? As a friend, she sucks big time since she knew him since young yet doesn’t understand him at all. No wonder he and Shao Peng are best friends AND not her. Oh yeah, that was WAY too interesting that Tang Tang was dreaming of running after Ying Ying in the flowers field, not wanting her to run so fast, etc – AND the reality was she was also running in the flowers field. Freaky or what? Or a hint? Then I have to add some points back for her at the beginning of episode 5 because it was revealed that she no longer trusted Tang Tang since he left about 10 years ago and not because she was heartless. OR at least she tried to build herself up and that she was still mad at him. Though she said she didn’t care anymore but it showed that she was still mad hence not taking his words so seriously anymore. Their little talk at the end of episode 7 brought out her emotions of the past even more yet I found it extremely funny that she forgive her mother or assumed her mother had reasons YET didn’t think that Tang Tang would have his reasons as well? Anyway, I kept thinking more and more near the ending that Ying Ying fell into the same trap as her mother because of how much Tang Tang did for her. (Her father was right in making the call and not letting her be in debt. Not to mention what he told her after handing his account info over, regarding how money could not buy marriage, etc and that she should think clearly of what she wants the most, NOT relying on other factors. She still have time to stop the tragic to play out, unlike her father.) The scene where she found him (Tang Tang) at the ocean side listening to the waves was quite emotional yet I felt Monie’s acting was like kind of bland to make it worth it. She didn’t have to exaggerate or anything but it seemed like it was some guy down the block and she was giving him the daily weather report. Though she did a tad better when she moved with the story about her father telling her about finding the right pair of shoes. I thought Tang Tang nailed it when he said she was saying those words because he’d gone blind already. NOT really that convincing since the script-writers had to leave everything to the end. Yet I guess their foundation since young sort of proved what she was saying true. Yet it was a shame that it was so slow and if the script-writers could have cut out some useless/frustrating scenes to build foundation back for Tang Tang and Ying Ying then it would be better.
• Xu Wei/Eddie and Ying Ying/Monie. Honestly? I’m so against this and I was so freaked out that they would end up together. I’m so serious. I don’t like it at all but I know the two do not look that bad together. Yup, it was way too obvious that she likes him because she keeps nagging him and wanting to know more about him. AND I think I’m probably qualified as heartless by now since when I watched that scene with them looking for each other that one night – when he got beat up by Orlando and his gang, I didn’t even care. I was even annoyed. Maybe it was too much to think that he would fall for her so easily? (Or I must have read it wrong and I rather be wrong.) And it was too much of a betrayal to Ying Zi, not caring for her feelings but was just loyal to his good brother. (YES, I hate when girls are treated as objects.) The other reason why they shouldn’t even be together is I find Ying Ying more natural when she’s with Tang Tang. I just don’t know. When she’s with Xu Wei, she’s more manipulative, always plotting different schemes to get his attention versus Tang Tang. Maybe because she knows Tang Tang too well and doesn’t think of him as much versus wanting to impress Xu Wei? I don’t know. Okay, whatever it was that made me want to just consider their relationship for a bit – even with the obstacles they have to face – made me disregard all caring for them because of what Ying Ying said to Tang Tang about her feelings for Xu Wei. NOT because I was siding with Tang Tang since she has the right to like whoever she wants. But what I was irked at was her ‘love at first sight’ phrase. I hate that type of love the most! Seems so impulse and fake. *shrugs* NOT picking on her this time, BUT more like the overall of the situation. I just hate that formula – or at least it’s one of the formulas I hate. Oh yeah, maybe the ultimate reason why I do not even support this pairing is because of how Ying YIng’s sort of the third-wheel and knowing it. YES, Xu Wei pushed Ying Zi away. But it still felt so wrong that Ying Ying jumped in like  that. It was like she was so clueless not to know or care about others, just her feelings.
• Su Ting/Joelle and Shao Peng/Ke Yu Lun. Seriously, he doesn’t deserve her. NOT because of his background either BUT because he’s too dumb at times. Well, not that extreme YET like I said in the other parts, he trusted Peter and confided in him when he shouldn’t be. Haven’t he listened to Tang Tang at all about what type of person Peter is? Honestly! Not to mention what I have already said in the other part under the character section is how he didn’t even try or fight hard enough yet he was bitter about losing? If he had been braver and all, and gave his best, he wouldn’t regret it – even if she doesn’t choose him. He could at least say ‘he tried’ but no. He has to let himself fall into others’ traps and then play the self-pity game.
• Lu Qi and Mei Lan. They’re seriously so cute though they’re not that focused on. I’m so serious. Maybe that’s why they’re tolerable to watch? Thank the script-writers for not dragging out the details of their relationship so it’s a lot more lovable. It’s so cool how her name fits right in with that one song he often sings, LOL!
• Peter/Ah Ben and Su Ting/Joelle. Seriously, I thought they matched more. Not just because of how it was revealed Peter had meant it with wanting to get back with Su Ting. That was after he went into a coma and all. But I always thought they matched more chemistry wise. Or perhaps Ah Ben was better at acting. I just don’t know. I reminded myself of all the despicable things Peter had done throughout yet I still shed a few tears while watching the flashbacks of their past. Strange…or perhaps it was the song playing in the background all along while Su Ting was reading the letters?

Interesting things? OR other discussions.

• Both female leads have the word ‘Ying’ in their names. Possibly it was done on purpose hence Xu Wei’s mantra about hating girls having ‘Ying’ in their names.
• Alice Guo saved the day with making the cake again. Honestly, I thought it would cost the restaurant’s reputation with the whole mixed up and how Tang Tang re-wrote the recipe from memory – or so he claimed. I was thinking of a typical controversy before things get sorted out. YET it was so great that the mix-up didn’t occur. That would be their next step in the typical drama. Then I forgive the director and/or script-writers for not changing the script and making it lame. They let Alice tasted it first, which made sense since it was really important, considering how it was a special delivery. Lucky some stupid drama was avoided. I don’t care if Tang Tang got into trouble too much at that point because I swear he needs to learn a lesson or two and needs to take responsibility for what he’d done.
• Wang Hai’s message to Xu Wei through the CD. Honestly, I thought they were going that route and expect us to think it’s cool that two guys were valuing friendship, neglecting Ying Zi’s feelings. YET they (the script-writers) made it clear through the message Wang Hai wanted to send to Xu Wei. I totally agree with what was said. Ying Zi is not a piece of toy they fought over from childhood. She’s a person and has a right to choose. Xu Wei could choose to reject but not because he wanted to push her to someone else. Wang Hai was very straight-forward about his wanting to fight and not just give up so easily, but didn’t want to play that pity card. AND just when I wanted to compliment the script-writers, they let Ying Ying step in to ruin the moment Xu Wei shared with Wang Hai (even if Wang Hai already passed away). I didn’t think her being there was necessary since this was between the guys and he deserved to grieve officially for his friend and playing the harmonica one last time together – without the disturbance of outsiders. Seriously, that scene was SO LAME. Xu Wei had been keeping everything inside for so long, he needed to cry. We know Ying Ying likes him and doesn’t want to see him so sad YET that made the scene lame, robbing us from the overall message. AND not to mention how I found all those condolences are so lame. Those are just empty words. Ever heard of irreplaceable? People are irreplaceable. It doesn’t matter how many more people care for him, they ARE NOT Wang Hai. Leave him alone to grieve for his friend – for once. He will move on, but NOT be rushed into it. Just because others do not want to see him sad doesn’t mean they have to force him into acting like a machine again. I probably lost the point here but I felt that was just so ruining a special moment.
• Xu Wei and Ying Ying are step-siblings? WHAT?! Just my guess from episode 4′s with the phone conversation between Quan Ge and Xu Wei’s father. This is so throwing us off. Though they’re not really related but would be too weird IF they end up together. Then there’s the past grudges with their mothers (somewhat indirectly). AND then I never celebrated anything more than this upon learning the possibility. Mean or cruel even of me to celebrate like that but I’m not rooting for the two SO I want to be evil on severing their ties.
• The confrontation between Tang Tang and Xu Wei in episode 4. Honestly, that was priceless. It reminded Xu Wei of the past and how Wang Hai was declaring war on him as well, but regarding Ying Zi (of course). It was an interesting one because it made Xu Wei think even more. And whether he was lying or not, I would like to believe him that he doesn’t like Ying Ying because it just seemed too fast. Perhaps he was just opening up to her because of her kind nature. But that was definitely interesting that Tang Tang was doing that. I meant I would think he would go and pull some schemes on Xu Wei behind his back more than be front. NOT that I don’t have faith in Tang Tang but his love for Ying Ying could blind him. He’s capable of bunch of schemes so it’s not impossible. Yet it was cool to see him so straight-forward. AND yes, according to Xu Wei’s words to An An in episode 6, he was lying about his feelings for Ying Ying. I swear I’m hating everyone in here. No loyalty. Liking someone else so quickly. Well, except for some people BUT yeah… ANYWAY, I totally agree with Tang Tang when he said Xu Wei’s words weren’t worth anything. So Tang Tang’s annoying too when he’s being mean to Xu Wei YET he’s forward and direct about it, even declaring war. YET Xu Wei just had to hide and be all fake.
• The choices Lu Qi made versus Peter. I always thought since learning of Peter if Lu Qi would have chosen the same path if that was presented to him. YET I think it would be too far-fetched and not fair since no one would know how he chooses. But then near the end of episode 4, I got my answer. Though Lu Qi values money and loves all schemes that would provide him with the opportunity to make money, but he wasn’t heartless. Though it was a misunderstanding, but he was really upset for Ying Ying upon learning that Xu Wei and Su Ting might be involved. YES, he was so talking nonsense when he said he would’ve chosen Su Ting too versus Ying Ying, but his being upset for Ying Ying made the decision more clear as to what he chose in a more serious manner.
• People in here likes to confide with strangers? By the time it reached the part where Peter was confiding with Shao Peng regarding Su Ting, I swear it reminded me of Ying Zi suddenly confiding to Ying Ying at the beginning. It’s like the script-writers wanted the audience to know some history of the characters involved YET did not know how to do it better than just let them tell it to some strangers. So maybe I shouldn’t take Ying Zi’s points off after all? I meant since Peter’s doing it too?
• Ying Ying not appreciating her father? Well, she IS quite grateful of him. Yet what made her think her father was at fault with her mother leaving? NICE…a slap in the face for him all right if he were to know how much his daughter supports him. Thinking that he didn’t appreciate her that was why she left? Well, no one know the real version yet up to episode 5, but that was so out of line with not trusting her father.
• The truth with Tang Tang and Shao Peng’s identities got exposed in episode 6. Thank you for not dragging it out! Darn! I would hate it that people try to solve it at the last episode. It would come out eventually anyway since they can’t con everyone forever so better sooner than later.
• Lan Ying aka the other woman blamed it on her ex-husband regarding their marriage. Well, at least it seemed so from her exchange with Quan Ge in episode 8. What the heck? YES, her daughter definitely takes it after her.
• They left An An alone in the room so they could go outside and talk? WHAT?! This was episode 8. Nothing happened yet since I paused the episode to type BUT it’s cliches enough to cause some mishaps. Idiots! YES, I’m being intolerant of everyone now. NO longer holding back. Including that dumb Tang Tang for listening to Lu Qi and putting the pressure on Quan Ge. Quan Ge should just quit and let them do what the hell ever they want. GOD! YUP, just continue on AND they couldn’t use the pails for the performance. Thanks a lot, dummies! Now Quan Ge have to be creative – IF he could. Sucks to be him.
• Shao Peng sort of compensated himself by finally telling Ying Ying about what happened to Tang Tang years ago when he suddenly disappeared. NO, it will not make up for the damage he’d already achieved with passing out Tang Tang’s password. BUT I thought that was worth some points that he decided to tell Ying Ying the truth. Regardless of how she decides, it’s NOT up to anyone and she has the right to choose. Yet the truth finally revealed made it less annoying. OR so I thought. But it was lame hearing her ask why Tang Tang didn’t tell her. DUH! Each  time he wanted to, she shut him up.
• Ah Wen supported Ying Zi? WHAT?! Okay, I would be more than happy to see Ah Wen so supportive of Ying Zi, but it was so strange since he was so aggressive and was supporting Xu Wei and Ying Ying. Perhaps he really bonded with Ying Zi that night – just like he claimed? (And that he knows why Xu Wei and Ying Ying wouldn’t work?)
• People sympathizing with Ying Ying more. NOT that I want to pick on the sick girl, but I think that’s the sole reason why she got more support than Ying Zi. Oh yeah, not to mention how those people know Ying Ying more, of course. Lucky Ah Wen seemed to stay neutral or it would become even harder. Though I was a tad annoyed with Sky for it. YES, she was being a supportive friend YET she only think of Ying Ying, not of others surrounding them all. And not to mention how it seemed to imply that Ying Zi is the other woman. Though IF anyone wants to keep things straight or settle scores, Ying Ying’s actually the other woman.
• What’s so good about Ying Ying anyway? I honestly didn’t want to go that low since I know her character was supposed to be having some kind nature (since Xu Wei did say she’s an angel at one point). YET I just can’t seem to see any good in her. She’s especially so ungrateful with how Lu Qi was trying to comfort her later on. Though he was saying bad things about Xu Wei, but that was the only technique he knew of to comfort her YET she was scolding him? It doesn’t matter how sad she is, she should appreciate her friends. Thinking Lu Qi only cares for money? YEAH, so what? At least he’s there when others needed it the most. Like they don’t need money to live. IF not, they should all quit their jobs. At least he thought up of all those techniques himself, not wanting to slow down, unlike others only knowing how to sabotage or ruin plans.
• “Living in happiness is just a fake world.”  This was said by Ying Ying to Tang Tang at the end of episode 11, indicating that she was living in her own made up world, not getting in touch with reality. YET I think it was more along the line of if life didn’t go her way, it was fake. Since she didn’t get Xu Wei, she felt depressed and wanted to take it out on the world as well. Honestly? I don’t know. She has the right to be depressed, but it made her mantra more fake than anything in the past about what she chanted to others but couldn’t do herself hence her nosy nature was so obvious from the beginning. Not being able to take care of her own problems yet meddling in others.
• The whole story revealed. This was the part in episode 12 where Tang Tang went to seek Ying Ba Ba out for the chat and also the part where Quan Ge told Xu Wei what happened in the past. I was glad they didn’t make up excuses – OR tried too hard to defend Lan Ying’s actions. I meant Quan Ge blamed himself, but it was not hard to figure out some details. Ying Ba Ba was too emotional. But Xu Wei was right. What did that have to do with others? Sure, the marriage between Ying Ba Ba and Lan Ying were too much like some business transaction, but did that leave her any right to treat the other dude like that? Perhaps Ying Ba Ba wasn’t too bright either with accepting the marriage. Yet did Lan Ying had to run away with a married man? She could have ran off with some other person out there. OR blame her gambling father. It wasn’t like it was Ying Ba Ba’s fault. If it was, then it was the fact that he was too weak and paid off the debt for Lan Ying’s father.
• Xu Wei and his father are the same. I was almost laughing when Xu Wei was saying how he wasn’t like his father. He was dead wrong BECAUSE I’m still keeping the score with him forgetting Ying Zi so easily and moved onto Ying Ying so fast. SO what if he was in pain about the other relationship? He seemed to move on in two shakes too.
• Claiming to follow the heart doesn’t mean you can hurt anyone and everyone around you. YES, listening to your heart is the best – or so they say. YET why are these people using it as an excuse to be irresponsible and covering up for past wrongs? It’s not about judging others, but it’s about how much pain was inflicted directly or indirectly and intentionally or unintentionally.
• Xu Wei didn’t follow on the tip about Peter posing as Shao Peng to create trouble outside.  This was the part at the bar in episode 13. Thank Orlando. That was so sweet! Priceless! Why? Orlando just had to spit it out to Xu Wei about Peter using Shao Peng’s name to get the schemes going. That was obviously a key point in uncovering the truth. YET Xu Wei didn’t think anything of it? He knew the Lan Tan company were luring people over so why didn’t he report anything to anyone? It was too lame. It wasn’t like Orlando was talking random. He had a basis AND even repeated those stuffs about the recruit and how the guest lists were purchased too. I guess when things do not concern people in here, they just don’t care. Unless it was their own group of friends? HONESTLY… Even if he thought Orlando was spouting nonsense, he should’ve told someone or Su Ting even to follow up and check it out to see if it was indeed just that. Maxing out possibilities will help her investigation. It wasn’t like he didn’t know or forgot who Shao Peng was. How could he not say anything? They (the script-writers) waited for episode 14 – THE LAST EPISODE – to let Xu Wei tell Su Ting? What the heck? That’s not being clever and making it intriguing, but making the characters slow and stupid on purpose to drag out the plot.
• Blood so fake! It was the scene when Peter fell saving Su Ting. They didn’t achieve the effects because his blood flowing out looked so fake! Not the one on his face but the one on the ground when his head hit the rock. OHhhh…so he was the one in coma/needing surgery AND NOT Shao Peng like I thought…
• Peter’s punishment for leaving Maggie. WHAT?! How delusional was that? She has the power to conjure Heaven to help her or listen to her? Does that mean she’s more mighty than Heaven? That’s ridiculous. Peter and Su Ting started first then Maggie jumped in and seduced him and snatched him away YET Maggie said that Su Ting snatched Peter away from her? I seriously am boggled. Nice one, but that was really lame. Trying to be graceful yet failed. I’m not blaming Maggie since Peter fell for it SO it was his fault mostly for deceiving both girls. YET it was ironic when Maggie use the ‘snatching’ concept like that.
• Full circle. Not only was Lu Qi’s joke about not charging Shao Peng if he was in a bad mood a familiar scene from the beginning but also Tang Tang’s disappearance after Ying Ying’s surgery.
• Tang Tang ended up blind? I saw this coming when he asked Alice if it would affect his cooking abilities if he lost his sights. She said it would enhance his other senses but wouldn’t affect his cooking if he made the effort. Then there was also the clue with Ying Ying returning alone, and no Tang Tang. Yet I didn’t want to believe it was true until he appeared at the ocean side while Shao Peng was out there again and saw him – eventually since he heard Tang Tang scolding at the servants. Yet it was super strange that it had allowed Shao Peng to muster up his courage a bit more, realizing how cowardly he had been and how hateful and disappointing it was to see someone so full of self-pitying when others were supporting and encouraging him/her on.
• “As long as there’s Mommy, everything would be solved.” Tang Tang’s mantra and proved that he was a momma’s boy. Yet it was indeed funny when Shao Peng was finishing the sentence after he reassured Shao Peng there was still his mother.

Goofs:

• Major character inconsistency. YEAH, most of the cast in here suffered from that throughout and I must say it had to do with the script-writers.
  
• Episode 13 when Ying Ying’s mother arrived at the festival to place the hat on her head. That was the part where she almost fainted and Lu Qi wanted to help her with her injection. What in the world happened? Did seeing her mother make the dizziness/fainting spell go away? Though I’m sure she was beyond herself and was very happy to finally hug her mother, but I didn’t think the sickness would give Ying Ying a break. OR did they squeeze that little session in after the initial hug but not let us see?

The similarities between this drama and TVB’s “Be Home For Dinner“:

• Tang Tang and Sam’s situation of breaking out of their destined career choices. Tang Tang and Sam are more interested in making/baking cakes/desserts than being stuck in some office doing corporate paperwork. Though the differences are obvious with Tang Tang much more arrogant, self-centered (from time to time), and spoiled because he’s a young master of a huge hotel corporation after all. Sam is also spoiled but could be considerate and down to earth in many ways, and is not as bossy as Tang Tang. The other difference is Tang Tang’s reason for wanting to make desserts is because of Ying Ying, and Sam has a great passion for being a dessert creator. Oh yeah, Tang Tang actually studied in the U.S. versus Sam studying in Canada. But it was interestingly revealed later that Sam wanted to prove that success could be achieved through hard work and determination AND not other despicable means like his ex-girlfriend had used SO it was after all the same with both characters – influenced by love. At least at first.
• Tang Tang and Sam both have a best friend since young. The difference was Shao Peng was less confidence than Tian Kai. However, both parties’ love interest had a higher rank/position at work than them and that could cause them to have some ‘pride’ trip from time to time. Though Tian Kai’s ending was better than Shao Peng because of the obvious confidence both possessed or lacked of. Not to mention how Tian Kai actually ended up with Si Ya and not the person he thought he liked.
• Both Tang Tang and Sam’s masters are strict yet effective in their teaching techniques. Alice Guo gets less focused on than Bei Er (Sam’s master) but her role is equally important because she has to mold Tang Tang into being a more responsible chef than just learning how to do it. Though Tang Tang was more rebellious in his learning process and had been expelled once before succeeding in the end versus Sam wanting to learn yet was threatened by Bei Er’s presence at first.
• Su Ting and Bei Er are similar characters – somewhat. Their background are different but the thing with them having trusting issues and how they have to overcome it is quite emotional. Not to mention how they were strong, independent career women.
• Xu Wei and Bei Er are SO much similar in their family background. Both parties have been abandoned and the family breakup was actually similar though the context was a bit different. Xu Wei didn’t have a younger brother/sister but the nature of how his father abandoned him had left a deep scar.
• Ying Ying and Bei Er both have to learn how to forgive their mothers. Though Ying Ying was more gentle of a character than Bei Er but the nature how they had to go through the pain of being left behind and wondering why, making up reasons was similar. Again, like Xu Wei – yup for the comparison between Bei Er of them – not an error on my typing of names, Ying Ying didn’t have a younger sister but she was still left behind with her father – who was supposedly more short-tempered and bitter (rightly so). But then again, when it was revealed later on in BHFD, it seemed like Bei Er’s father was more bitter. Regardless of who was actually right or wrong in the past, both sides had to learn to live with their mothers or seek some point of understanding. There were also bracelets being involved in both cases to remind them of the past but the difference was Ying Ying’s mother made the bracelet she wore versus Bei Er’s grandmother’s golden pair of bracelets. Ying Ying was able to forgive her mother more because that was the type of person she was versus Bei Er’s stubborn nature (but not her fault because of past scars). In a way, Bei Er was more like Xu Wei because of their stubborn natures. The more obvious differences between Ying Ying and Bei Er was Ying Ying was sick versus Bei Er being pretty much healthy. The result was more forced in ‘Be Home For Dinner’ for Bei Er regarding how the forgiveness scenes eventually rolled out later on. Moreover, the ending of this drama was better because it didn’t force everyone to be together, making it more realistic than ‘Be Home For Dinner’ (which was so forced).
• Ying Ying and Bei Er lived with their fathers after their mother left. Though I must say that Bei Er sided with her father more than her mother at one point. Though the difference was Ying Ying’s father wasn’t the party at fault – like it was revealed with Bei Er’s father later. But another thing was Kristal’s acting was WAY better than Monie hence making it more convincing in that part with their father-daughter bond. Thoug Ying Ying appreciated her father but often doubted him (i.e. guessing that it was his fault that her mother left).
• Both Ying Ying and Si Ya couldn’t eat sweets. It was obvious that because of her sickness that did not allow Ying Ying to eat sweets. However, Si Ya could eat sweets but did not like sweets and rather not touch it. (YET the most ironic thing was seeing Si Ya in an earlier episode being rewarded by her father with a piece of cheesecake of her favorite while her father was the one not tolerating sweet stuffs.)
• Both of the story had to have someone come out to clarify some details regarding the family conflicts. For instance, Quan Ge was telling Xu Wei what happened in the past while Tang Tang was listening to Ying Ba Ba recount the story. In the other case, it was one of the parents’ friends came out clarifying to Guo Dong the complexity of the situation in the past with all parties involved and how it led to a misunderstanding. However, because there was an actual affair going on in this drama so it was easier to relate to, not to mention longer recounts that made the details clearer. On the other hand, in the ‘Be Home For Dinner’, the script-writers were trying too hard to defend the mother and condemn the father AND with so little details that it seemed unbelievable. The likeness factor though was that both parties who told the story, i.e. Quan Ge and that one guy were friends of the family.
• Both Tang Tang and Guo Dong ended up blind. Okay, NOT totally the same but was creepily similar by the time it got to the part where Guo Dong had the accident and eventually losing his sight. The incident had led to both parties’ loved ones making a decision. The difference was Ying Ying finally stepped forward bravely to confess her feelings for Tang Tang and even told him why she was reluctant to start over again at first when he appeared again (i.e. fear of getting hurt again after he left the other time). Ying Ying was touched by Tang Tang’s actions and finally believed that he could actually do anything for her – and not just talks. On the other hand, Guo Dong’s ex-wife/to-be-wife-again chose to leave once again because she couldn’t accept him being blind. AND the other difference was Guo Dong was in a much more complicated situation, i.e. loving Bei Er now and only thought of responsibilities regarding his ex-wife. The other thing with both men’s sight was how Guo Dong actually got the treatment and would eventually see but with Tang Tang we have to assume that the time would come for him as well because of his wealth and how his mother was so capable with her connections. (His words and always having his faith in his mother because he was a momma’s boy.)

So what happened with the differences of characters and how it was placed in ‘Be Home For Dinner’?

• Tang Tang got split into two characters -> Guo Dong and Sam. Guo Dong took over somewhat of the romance and his association to someone who was part of the family conflicts (i.e. Ying Ying/Bei Er). Sam possessed the cake/dessert creator part.
• Alice Guo also got split into two characters -> Bei Er and Roger. Bei Er took the strong personality with strict discipline in cooking lessons while Roger got the cake/dessert creating part.
• Ying Ying’s character became Bei Er and Hai Er. Sort of because they ended up adding in a younger sister for the whole conflict but Ying Ying had become Hei Er because of her somewhat forgiving nature and how she was more gentle than that was Bei Er. Coincidentally, Ying Ying’s character wasn’t that likeable in the drama either – just like how Hai Er’s character seemed to reflect in the other one. In the process, Xu Wei got sacrificed and do away with since they didn’t talk about the ‘current’ husband having a son/daughter of his own. In a way, Bei Er got both Alice Guo’s strong personality and Xu Wei’s stubbornness.
• The type of business was changed. It took the focus away from the hotel corporation and the dolphin training facility to newspaper publishing and culinery skills. Though this one was also focused on with the culinary skills but did not focus too much on the food world, just normal whenever it was necessary to keep Tang Tang’s character consistent with his journey to becoming a responsible chef.
• The story with Su Ting having to resolve some past love conflicts with Peter was somewhat like the conflict Guo Dong had to resolve. YET this one was unexpectedly good even if it was sort of unrealistic in a way. Kind of far-fetched with this one since the essence of the story was different and the details were also different. Yet Peter’s character made a lot more sense than the whole ‘Jessie conflict’ in the other one.
• Peter is Jessie? Because of the previous point, it got me thinking it was so. Because Peter was really cunning and manipulative in his own way. Yet what he did was more forgivable than Jessie. (AND for once, it was really about love.) He did sabotage the other company that sent him as a spy before he confessed his crimes to Su Ting later because his only goal in stationing himself at the hotel was winning Su Ting’s heart back. In ‘Be Home For Dinner’, Jessie’s sole purpose was for her own benefit, something to brag about, NOT love. In a way, Su Ting’s character got sacrificed as well – and her character just went into Bei Er as the strong, career woman type. Yet the conflict had directed itself toward Guo Dong.

*NOTE*: The previous points were ONLY my assumptions, NOT really legit reasons or accusations to throw dirt on the creators of ‘Be Home For Dinner’. Call it a fun activity since I was bored.

Anyway, I kept saying over and over this was better than ‘Be Home For Dinner’ so why don’t I prove it, right? Here goes:

• Their IQs were dropped in both dramas yet it was reasonable in here. YES, it was frustrating at one point or another with some stupid schemes. But it wasn’t too unreasonable because most of them happened within the hotel corporations, telling us how people were capable of pulling those dirty tricks. AND how honest people couldn’t survive if they didn’t shape up with having sharp eyes.
  
• The family conflicts actually made sense. The story was told from various characters in here Xu Wei, Ying Ying, Xu Wei’s father, Ying Ying’s mother, etc. But all the pieces finally fell into place when Quan Ge and Ying Ba Ba explained it to Xu Wei and Tang Tang respectively. But it wasn’t unclear OR not making sense. It was quite clear all right. I guess it was because they had more people recounting of the events and how their point of views were different. You name it with the bitterness, anger, guilt, etc from all the parties who told the stories. YET the story made sense with all the dots connecting in the right places. Even if it was from different interpretations but we saw whose perspective it was from. All the facts were actually consistent enough, like time and dates – how things unfolded, SO it wasn’t too far-fetched. Not to mention how it wasn’t so one-sided like in ‘Be Home For Dinner’, attempting to cover up everything and tried so hard to convince us all that the dead man was the bad guy – since he couldn’t defend himself anyway.
  
• Resolving the conflict. For this one, Ying Ying’s mother – through her current husband (Xu Wei’s father)’s persuasion – finally went to see Ying Ying hence allowing her to feel her mother’s warm touch once again during this one festival the villagers held up on the mountains, and participated in the events with her. YET the parents didn’t stay there or tried to mend the relationship even more. They left for Japan to continue on with their life eventually. Xu Wei, on the other hand, wasn’t forced into acknowledging his father – though his father did try to explain (or make excuses). Xu Wei did come to terms with the past and returned to his cheerful self again (after losing his mother since young, his grandfather several years back, and then his best friend about two years back as well). But he didn’t forgive his father just like that. He just chose not to hate anymore. Not to mention how he didn’t want to waste his life focusing on his father while he could spend it with the people who cared for him. Therefore, it wasn’t forcing Xu Wei to go to Japan with his father and Ying Ying’s mother either – even though the father offered. And just like the after-note that Xu Wei said – even if he meant it mostly for romantic relationships, but it could be explained that dolphins and cats aren’t of similar species hence not being able to mingle regardless of how they try to go past that barrier of differences.
• What was all the pieces of the conflict then? (Those who watched knew.) But let me recap real quick. Both had to do with arranged marriage and how terrible it was supposed to be. (NOT kidding here.) Starting from Xu Wei’s side. Xu Wei’s parents got together because Grandpa Xu had picked the ‘daughter in law’ personally and really liked her (OF COURSE) with her gentleness and possessing the typical traits that would make her the best daughter in law. However, Xu Wei’s father was opposed to it, even fighting with Grandpa Xu from time to time. Yet he gave in at last because he didn’t want to fight anymore (probably both because he was tired of fighting and because he didn’t want to upset Grandpa Xu anymore). So Xu Wei’s parents got married, but Xu Wei’s father was still unrest and would always leave, claiming business matters, etc. When Xu Wei was finally born, he actually got his name from the officer who wrote the birth certificate because when the officer asked the father, “What did you name your kid?”, the father replied, “Just call him ‘Wei’ then.” The father meant ‘wei’ as in ‘hey’, but the officer jotted it down as the ‘wei’ (蔚) from ‘azure’. (So yup, the officer named him with much more grace than the original one that his father had uttered out.) That was why Xu Wei hated it when people called him ‘wei’ regardless because of how his name came about. (This was explained in episode 3.) Jumping to Ying Ying’s side now before the tie together. Ying Ying’s grandfather (her mother’s father) was a heavy gambler hence accumulating quite an amount of debt. He sold Lan Ying (Ying Ying’s mother) to a brothel. Around that time, Ying Ying’s father just finished his military service and had some money. Since he was too soft-hearted after seeing that incident, he interfered and paid off all the debts. Lan Ying’s father, knowing that there wasn’t any free meals in life, insisted that Ying Ying’s father married Lan Ying. Lan Ying, of course was really bitter about this whole marriage because she felt it was like a business transaction instead of a real marriage (because there was no real love). (Age difference was actually another factor that caused the rip since Ying Ying’s father was actually 35 that year and Lan Ying was only 17 years old.) After the wedding and having given birth to Ying Ying the following year, Lan Ying tried to avoid Ying Ba Ba at all cost with busying herself with various tasks, like doing sculptures or investing her times in studying plants and flowers. The connection with how she met Xu Wei’s father was because of Quan Ge. He was Lan Ying’s neighbor once upon a time and she treated him like her little brother. Xu Wei’s father was a businessman who did imports/exports trading and who was also coincidentally a friend of the family to Quan Ge. One day when Xu Wei’s father came to visit, Quan Ge had some exams so he asked Lan Ying to be the tour guide in his place. That was the beginning of Xu Wei’s father and Ying Ying’s mother. Quan Ge blamed himself for being the person who tied the ‘red string’ because of that incident. Yet Ying Ba Ba didn’t blame him because he knew it had to do with the other two parties, and that Quan Ge was still young so he wouldn’t know such turns of events. SO one day when Ying Ba Ba was out working, Lan Ying left her daughter (Ying Ying) with the neighbors and left without words. (She had ran off with Xu Wei’s father, of course.) During the time when Xu Wei’s father was at that town, another incident occurred because Xu Wei’s mother had a heart condition and needed meds, etc. However, when she had a heart attack that one night, Xu Wei was the only person with her and tried to call his father on the phone to get him to come back and help his mother YET it was all too late. What was more was how Xu Wei’s father had called his mother earlier to say that he wanted a divorce (a possible factor that had caused her change in emotions hence the attack). Xu Wei was sooo young at that time and didn’t realize what was going on until he had some info from his grandfather later on, but he only wanted to see his father come home and save the day. YET Xu Wei’s father didn’t and that was how the mother died (not having medical help on time). What made Quan Ge blamed himself even more of the whole incident was because how Xu Wei’s grandfather had blamed him in the past when Xu Wei’s mother died that night. (The reason why Quan Ge knew Xu Wei’s grandfather because the old man saved him one time when he was out at seas on this one boat with a bunch of people and they encountered a storm.) After that, Grandpa Xu actually took in the responsibility of raising Xu Wei hence Xu Wei only having a bond with his grandpa and NOT his father. Not to mention how Grandpa Xu would never accept Lan Ying, etc. Most of the recounts were from Ying Ba Ba and Quan Ge in episode 12 with Tang Tang and Xu Wei – respectively. The rest of the pieces were gathered throughout the drama until episode 12 with the actual fill in of the big pieces. If it didn’t make sense, it was my poor recounts. NOT because of the plot lapses. (The plot did have a bunch of lapses, but with the conflicts between the families, it was actually very clear in the end.)

And while I’m at it, the plot with Xu Wei and Ying Ying being step-siblings and having past grudges creepily bears similarities to ‘The Magicians of Love’ though somehow – though TMOL had a lot of goofs and dragging moments too, it managed better. Also, what Xiao Bei’s mother did was somewhat similar yet her explanation later on made a lot of more sense. The other difference was how Ming Dao and Qiao Qiao actually ended up together versus Eddie and Monie not. The theme also differed, making it steered into different directions and other subplots were different. I found “Be Home For Dinner” much similar because of the same theme and plot, except for some details being shuffled around and additional subplots.

What could have been done to make it less lame?

• X out the love formula between Xu Wei and Ying Ying altogether. I’m not saying this because I’m against them. But I think both pairings DO NOT have to be so complicated. Xu Wei and Ying Ying could meet as two friends and somehow found out about the past, wanting to patch things OR just plain get mad or whatever else. Yet making it into their romance for the most part killed the development and patches between Xu Wei and Ying Zi later, not to mention Tang Tang and Ying Ying. Xu Wei and Ying Ying seemed so deep in love (OR SO THE PLOT DRAGGED OUT TO MAKE US BELIEVE SO), therefore, making it unconvincing that Xu Wei end up with Ying Zi and Tang Tang with Ying Ying. Though I like the pairings that way more but the thing in the middle had dragged to death so the last 4 or 5 episodes did not justify for the turnaround. Though time could tell that Xu Wei would eventually find out that Ying Zi’s the only one for him and Ying Ying could get over the fact that Tang Tang had abandoned her once upon a time (through unavoidable reasons), BUT I rather it focused on healing and patching up both relationships than adding in the romance formula.
• Cut back on Peter’s schemes. YES, we know he’s capable of a lot of things but possibly cut back on it since everyone’s IQ went down millions of points by then. AND they weren’t that intelligent to begin with, except for some. SO that was so unbearable seeing Shao Peng kept falling into the trap. Maybe cut back on how many times Shao Pen fell in. IF he was deceived through Peter’s means, then okay. BUT how he kept running to Peter’s side and feeding information for Peter was like ridiculous. Shao Peng’s too honest for his own good YET at least make him stay away from Peter just because he trust Tang Tang’s words – or something.
• In fact, cut back on all misunderstandings altogether. The one with Xu Wei and Ying Ying’s past and their parents were too much already AND enough for the show. No need to create more stupidity in it. It didn’t stir up intrigues or excitement. But it just proved many people in here are stupid. I don’t like to insult others, not even fictional characters. YET I couldn’t stop saying “Stupid” while watching those scenes. Common sense anyone?

Who’s fault was it? Well, first of all mine since I wanted to watch this in the first place for Eddie and Angela. That’s a lesson for me over and over again YET I ignored in the past. Never watch for favorites since the plot could just suck big time. Secondly? The blame goes to the script-writers. So inconsistent at times regarding some characters. What about the rest? The plot got sooo draggy with so many cliches stuff happening, like dragging out Peter’s schemes AND the whole misunderstanding craps.

What was good? YES, I decided it was better to let it end on a positive note regardless of how torturous it was to watch. Since I did choose to watch myself, NOT influenced by others or being held against my will.

• Soundtrack. It doesn’t matter if Eddie’s a good singer OR not, but the main theme was really catchy and powerful but did not lose its meaningful sense and fitting in with the overall theme. Moreover, I love the song sang by Ah Ben – regardless of his role in here. I was used to hearing him sing upbeat songs more so it was quite refreshing for me to hear him sing a much more soapy song (lol).
• Cast. Except for some variations here and there, I thought the overall cast was a good choice for their roles. Whether the production team had problems or not, I don’t know and probably we won’t know some inside details, but they managed to be convincing enough. (EXCEPT for SOME.) IF only the plot was better and that some of the personalities were better controlled – either changing one way or another, NOT because of inconsistency. But I don’t want to go into more details since I already ranted up there AND trying to keep things positive here.
• The approach with the beginning scene tying in with the ending. Seriously, that was so cool. If only I was more patient then I would have seen more signs.
• Su Ting ended up with Peter. I was seriously stumped yet I found that plot good. I’m so serious here. I hated the other parts of it being dragged on and on. But now that it was that way, I felt that was pretty clever, leading us on like that. But I still stand by my words with cutting back on annoying schemes. And I guess I wasn’t playing enough attention to the scene at the beginning with Su Ting wearing a wedding gown and someone was in a coma with machines attached. I thought it was Shao Peng later on into the plot. Yet it was actually Peter when the scene where he was in a coma rolled around. I had to switch to the first episode again to check. Clever move. Going full circle. Getting back to the idea of them being together, I felt it was less cliches. I meant okay, it could happen that they get back together – and like it wasn’t done in the past already. Yet it made it like Peter wasn’t just the typical bad guy that would end up in prison or worse. That would be too one-dimensional and predictable. Then it was like what Su Ting said, Shao Peng was not brave enough to withstand all obstacles. Don’t blame Peter for being despicable, but blame Shao Peng for not standing strong. YES, Peter had tossed out some traps but Shao Peng had too big of a pride and didn’t stay to fight alongside Su Ting. Instead, he chose silent retreat.
• The after notes. Honestly, that made sense with Xu Wei/Eddie’s narration because I honestly didn’t see the point of putting romance into the whole thing and wanted to cut it out altogether. Yet I still feel it wasn’t necessary with some of the dragging parts. The moral of the story was bird of the same feathers flock together hence Xu Wei ending up with Ying Zi and Tang Tang with Ying Ying.

Recommended? Your choice.