Under the Power (2019): A Ming Dynasty Gem of Romance and Mystery
Under the Power (2019) is a Chinese drama that has captivated audiences with its blend of historical intrigue, romance, and action-packed mystery. Set during the Ming Dynasty’s Jiajing period, this 55-episode series, adapted from Lan Se Shi’s novel of the same name, follows the journey of two headstrong investigators whose clashing personalities spark both conflict and chemistry. If you’re a fan of wuxia, romance, or crime-solving dramas, here’s why Under the Power deserves a spot on your watchlist.
Plot Overview
The story centers on Lu Yi (Ren Jialun), a cold and authoritative officer of the Jinyiwei, the Ming Dynasty’s secret police, tasked with investigating the disappearance of government funds meant for river repairs in Yangzhou. He’s paired with Yuan Jinxia (Tan Songyun), a spirited and talented constable from the Liushanmen (Six Gates) who has a knack for getting under his skin. Their initial rivalry, marked by witty banter and competing investigative methods, evolves into a deep bond as they tackle cases involving murder, corruption, piracy, and rebellion. However, their budding romance faces a major obstacle when Jinxia uncovers a devastating truth about her family’s past, forcing her to choose between love and revenge.
The drama weaves a rich tapestry of political conspiracies, driven by the ruthless Yan family, with Yan Shifan (Han Dong) as a compelling antagonist. Alongside the central mystery, the show explores themes of loyalty, justice, and sacrifice, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Ming Dynasty China.
Why It Stands Out
Dynamic Leads and Chemistry: Ren Jialun’s portrayal of the stoic yet principled Lu Yi is a perfect foil for Tan Songyun’s lively and fearless Jinxia. Their enemies-to-lovers arc is a highlight, with moments of humor, tension, and heartfelt connection that keep viewers hooked. Fans have praised their natural chemistry, with Tan Songyun’s expressive acting balancing Ren Jialun’s understated intensity.
Strong Female Characters: Jinxia is a refreshing departure from typical historical drama heroines. She’s smart, skilled in martial arts, and unapologetically bold, refusing to be defined by her gender in a male-dominated era. Supporting characters like Shangguan Xi and Madam Qi also shine as capable women, adding depth to the narrative.
Blend of Genres: Under the Power masterfully balances action, romance, comedy, and mystery. The investigative cases, while sometimes predictable, are engaging, with twists involving court intrigue and betrayal. The wuxia-style fight scenes, especially the Jinyiwei’s group battles, are well-choreographed, though some CGI (like underwater scenes) can feel dated.
Costume and Production Design: The Jinyiwei’s embroidered uniforms, particularly Lu Yi’s striking red attire, are a visual treat, earning praise for their detailed craftsmanship. The vibrant sets and costumes enhance the historical ambiance, despite occasional criticism of overly bright lighting.
Memorable Soundtrack: The drama’s OST, including Tan Songyun’s “Wish/Yuan” and Ren Jialun’s “Heart Wall,” complements the emotional highs and lows, with lyrics that resonate with the characters’ struggles and romance.
Strengths and Flaws
The drama excels in pacing, keeping viewers engaged across its 55 episodes with a mix of suspense, romance, and humor. The development of Lu Yi and Jinxia’s relationship feels organic, with standout moments like Jinxia tending to Lu Yi’s wounds or their poignant cliff scene. The supporting cast, including Han Dong’s chilling yet nuanced Yan Shifan, adds layers to the story.
However, the show isn’t without flaws. Some viewers found the plot predictable, with familiar wuxia tropes and a rushed ending that leaves certain events unresolved or glossed over. The reliance on flashbacks can feel excessive, and secondary characters like Xie Xiao and Chun Yu Min occasionally come off as one-dimensional or annoying. Additionally, while the drama tackles dark themes like torture and betrayal, it sometimes softens their impact for a lighter, rom-com tone.
Critical Reception
Fans highlight the leads’ performances and chemistry, with one viewer calling it “a perfect ensemble of action, mystery, and romance” despite its length. However, some critics found the plot convoluted and the romance underdeveloped until later episodes, labeling it “a mess” for its reliance on clichés. On X, fans continue to recommend it for its charm and rewatch value, even noting its low-budget appeal.
Should You Watch It?
If you enjoy historical dramas with strong character-driven stories, Under the Power is a must-watch. Its blend of crime-solving, romance, and wuxia action makes it accessible to both newcomers and seasoned C-drama fans. While the 55-episode length may seem daunting, the engaging leads and well-paced plot make it binge-worthy. Be prepared for some clichés and a bittersweet ending that might leave you wanting more, but the journey is well worth it.