A Poetic Journey of Redemption and Romance in Qing Qing Zi Jin (2020)
Adapted from Wu Yu’s novel Gong Xue Has Bandits, this 40-episode series, directed by Xu Fei, aired on Hunan TV and Mango TV from August 17 to October 19, 2020. With a talented cast led by Fan Shi Qi as Luo Qiu Chi and Lu Xiao Yu as Wen Ren Juan, the drama offers a heartwarming mix of youthful energy, literary charm, and emotional depth. Here’s why this Tang Dynasty tale is a must-watch for fans of historical rom-coms.
A Tale of Poetry and Redemption
Set during the Tang Dynasty’s golden age of arts and culture, Qing Qing Zi Jin follows Luo Qiu Chi, a gifted but troubled poet who escaped to the mountains as a child after enduring significant hardships. His life takes a turn when he encounters Wen Ren Juan, a spirited female scholar. Their chance meeting leads him to enroll at the prestigious Zhuxiu Academy, where he hides his true identity to pursue his poetic ambitions and track down an old enemy. The story unfolds as a journey of redemption, as Luo navigates rivalries, friendships, and his growing feelings for Wen Ren Juan.
The drama stands out for its unique blend of historical intrigue and a school setting, with Zhuxiu Academy serving as a lively backdrop for poetry competitions and youthful antics. While the premise of a co-ed academy in the Tang Dynasty stretches historical accuracy, the fun and engaging setting allows viewers to overlook this for the sake of entertainment.ry
Fan Shi Qi delivers a captivating performance as Luo Qiu Chi, a complex character torn between his vengeful past and newfound hope. His transformation from a guarded, bitter individual to someone who embraces love and friendship is both moving and well-executed. Lu Xiao Yu’s Wen Ren Juan is equally compelling—a smart, kind-hearted scholar who softens Luo’s rough edges with her gentle persistence. Their chemistry is a highlight, evolving from a tense encounter to a realistic and heartwarming romance. Fans praise their dynamic, with one review stating, “This is one of the best, most realistic couples I’ve seen in terms of how their relationship grows from strength to strength.”
The secondary couple, Hang Ru Xue (Xie Bin Bin) and Zhao Qing He (Su Meng Di), adds another layer of charm. Their reserved yet soulful connection, conveyed through subtle glances and actions, contrasts beautifully with the main couple’s more expressive dynamic. Xie Bin Bin’s portrayal of the stoic yet endearing general-turned-teacher has earned him praise, with viewers hoping to see him in more lead roles. The ensemble cast, including the comedic boy emperor and rival Fu Yuan Zhi, brings humor and camaraderie, making Zhuxiu Academy feel alive and vibrant.
Themes of Growth and Universal Education
Qing Qing Zi Jin weaves meaningful themes into its lighthearted narrative. The drama emphasizes that education should be a universal right, but it doesn’t inherently make someone moral—a message that resonates through Luo’s journey and the academy’s diverse students. The focus on Tang poetry adds cultural richness, showcasing the era’s literary heritage through competitions and heartfelt recitations. The story also explores themes of forgiveness, as Luo learns to let go of his childhood bitterness, and the power of friendship, as the students support each other through challenges.
The drama’s emphasis on healthy relationships is refreshing. While there are villains, the focus remains on character growth and camaraderie rather than melodramatic conflicts. As one viewer put it, “The camaraderie between both couples and how they support each other” is a standout feature.
Flaws in Pacing and Plot
Despite its charm, Qing Qing Zi Jin has its shortcomings. The 40-episode runtime feels overly long, with pacing issues particularly evident after the midpoint. Reviewers note that “both relationships peak shortly thereafter and while the lovey-dovey couples are adorable, the pace is slow from then.” The villains, revealed early, linger until the end with repetitive and predictable motives, which some found underwhelming. One critique highlighted illogical plot points, such as Wen Ren Juan’s martial arts skills inexplicably fading in later episodes to serve the plot, which frustrated viewers who admired her earlier strength. Additionally, some felt the writing became sloppy toward the end, with the final villain failing to evoke sympathy. Shortening the series by about 10 episodes could have tightened the narrative.
A Visual and Musical Treat
The drama’s production values are a highlight, with vibrant costumes and sets that capture the Tang Dynasty’s aesthetic. The OST, while not extensively detailed in reviews, complements the drama’s tone, enhancing both the romantic and comedic moments. The poetry recitations are a standout, adding an authentic cultural touch that elevates the viewing experience.
Why You Should Watch
Despite pacing issues and some inconsistent writing, the drama shines through its strong character development, realistic relationships, and cultural charm. The chemistry between Fan Shi Qi and Lu Xiao Yu, coupled with the endearing secondary couple, makes it a delightful watch for fans of historical rom-coms. As one reviewer enthused, “The drama is easy to watch and light-hearted… I strongly encourage everyone to give this drama a chance.”
Available on platforms like Viki and Apple TV with English subtitles, Qing Qing Zi Jin is perfect for viewers seeking a feel-good drama with a touch of literary flair. Dive into this poetic journey—you might find yourself reciting Tang verses by the end!