Are You The One (柳舟记) is a Tencent Video’s Period Romance Drama adapted from the novel “Jiao Cang” (娇藏). The series stars Zhang Wanyi and Wang Churan in the lead roles.
My Ratings: 8.5/10: A deceitful encounter between enemies sets the stage for unexpected love and romance in this captivating period drama. The series offers a satisfying viewing experience with its strong characters, engaging plot, amazing chemistry and stunning visuals.
Episodes: 40
Braodcast Details: August 2024
Broadcast Platform: Tencent Video
Photos credit: Tencent Video/Weibo
Are You The One – Synopsis
Cui Xingzhou also known as Lord Huaiyang (portrayed by Zhang Wanyi) is in search of his archenemy Lu Wen, a notorious bandit leader from Mout Yang. One day, Cui Xingzhou’s camp is ambushed which led him to believe that Lu Wen was behind the act. So, he tries to catch this enemy at all cost. For this, when Liu Mian Tang (played by Wang Churan), who is supposed to be a concubine of Lu Wen is attacked and heavily injured on the way losing her memory, he rescues her. Seizing this opportunity, Cui Xingzhou tries to get the whereabouts of Lu Wen through Liu Mian Tang, who mistakes him for her husband.
However, during this process, Cui Xingzhou finds himself unexpectedly falling for Liu Mian Tang, adding an unforeseen twist of fate to their encounter.
Main Characters
- Zhang Wanyi as Cui Xingzhou: A lord of Huaiyang Cui Xingzhou, seemingly kind but is ruthless
- Wang Churan as Liu Mian Tang: a Leader of Mount Yang
Supporting Characters
- Chang Huasen as Ziyu: a man with a mysterious identity who likes Liu Mian Tang.
- Liu Ling Zi as He Zhen: a daughter of merchant family who runs a porcelain business
- Zhang Qi as Zhao Quan: a physician and a close friend of Cui Xingzhou
- Yuan Yu Xuan as Shi Xue Ji: the daughter of a Shi family and is fiance of Ziyu
Are You The One Impressions And Popularity
So, ‘Are You The One’ was one of the highly anticipated costume dramas in 2024 due to its popular IP novel and lead actors Zhang Wanyi, who gained significant popularity in 2023 and 2024 for his performance in ‘Lost You Forever’ and Wang Churan who got recognition after her debut drama ‘Oh My General’.
Well, the good news is Wang Churan who was severely criticised for her performance last year in ‘Fireworks Of My Heart’ was able to turn the tide through her loving yet badass role Liu Mian Tang in ‘Are You The One.’ Her cold and fierce temparament alongside tender charm as a wife was praised by many. Meanwhile, Zhang Wanyi whose character was overshadowed by other characters in Lost You Forever finally got his own limelight in ‘Are You The One’.
Although, the drama initially received mixed reviews, as the plot progressed further viewers eventually fell in love with undeniable chemistry of the leads and compelling storyline. The drama broke 27, 000 Heat Index on its online streaming platform Tencent Video showing a significant popularity. Additionally, the drama also became the top-rated romance category drama on Douban (DB) in 2024 with a high opening score of 8. According to DB raters, the drama’s story or script flowed consistently throughout the series and the main leads, Zhang Wanyi and Wang Churan had good rapport.
Reasons Why ‘Are You The One’ Stands Out..
‘Are You The One’ explores themes of love, relationships, loyalty, trust, and sincerity. Although the relationship between the main leads, Cui Xingzhou and Liu Mian Tang, begins with deception when they first meet, they gradually get to know each other and ultimately becomes the best version of themselves and a perfect couple. They evolve from being wary of each other to completely relying on and trusting one another. While the drama also touches on other elements like court struggles and business matters, these aspects are less explored, with the primary focus on the development of the relationship and romance between Cui Xingzhou and Liu Mian Tang.
Its not like that we aren’t familiar with this kind of scenarios or plotline in many TV dramas /movies in recent years. Even though its not entirely new, there’s something in the series that will keep viewers glued to the screen until the end. Like any production, it has its strengths and weaknesses, but its strong points ultimately overshadow the shortcomings.
From Enemy To Lovers
Both leads are capable individuals with their own paths and goal to persue. When the two come together living under the same roof under the circumstance like female lead having amnesia and mistaking Cui Xingzhou as her husband and him trying to take advantage of this situation to get intel on his target, it keeps viewers on their toes wondering what will happen next, especially as he slowly falls for her.
Just imagine someone who has never cared about or experienced love before suddenly falling for a girl he captured to use as a bargaining chip. It’s a tough situation, isn’t it? How long can a relationship built on such lies and deception last? He’s torn between telling her the truth or keeping her in the dark forever.
With her temperament, telling her truth means simply losing her, which he doesn’t want at any cost, but he also doesn’t want to keep her in a castle built on a lie. So decides to tells her everything once the righ times comes. This decision of him reveals that he is a sincere person who values relationship and the person he loves. Yes, Cui Xingzhou may appear ruthless on the surface, but he has a softer side too, which is only visible when he’s with those he deeply trusts or cares about, such as his mother and Liu Mian Tang.
So this specific incident was like a turning point in his life or in other words, it was like a blessing in disguise for Cui Xingzhou. This mistakes of him not only gave him a chance to discover a different side of himself but also meet his soulmate. Through this, he was able to be someone who doesn’t value things like love and emotion to personally experiencing it, and realizing what kind of mistake he committed. The good thing is, he would do everything in his power to redeem his mistakes and win Liu Mian Tang’s heart.
Since it was his turn to pursue Liu Miantang and win her over, every reaction and action of his was entertaining to watch. It was both hilarious and adorable, making it impossible not to root for him.
During the first half of the show, tension runs high as viewers are left wondering how Liu Mian Tang will react once she discovers that everything was just a game from the beginning. Given her straighforward nature and someone who cannot tolerate lie, Cui Xingzhou is likely to suffer once his lies are exposed.
Not A Typical Damsel In Distress
Unlike the typical damsel in distress female lead, Liu Mian Tang is proactive, smart, and composed. She can be both ruthless and kind. The interesting part is, even if she loses her memory, she’s quick to question any actions or consequences that seem odd or out of place. She’s like; Do you really think I’ll just sit idly and wait for my husband to return and solve everything? Nope, that’s not Liu Mian Tang way. She’s the kind of person who will work for whatever she wants, never allowing others to take advantage of her, and those who try often would find themselves in trouble.
Trust me, while watching this series, viewers really don’t need to worry much for this female lead because one will be pleasantly surprised by her every clever moves. She rely on her own effort and merits and fulfills her purpose to live her life with freedom, and support her family and people. After meeting Cui Xingzhou, she also learns to love and cherish love. This new encounter leads her life in a new direction, bringing her peace, happiness, and a new beginning.
Initially, as she is kept in a completely fabricated world by male lead, Cui Xingzhou making her believe that he is indeed the husband of her, she does everything to help him prosper financially. And this aspect of hers shows, she’s a hard working, enduring and an independent woman.
Consistency and Uniqueness: The Cornerstones of ‘Are You The One’
honestly, What I love about this series is the consistency in its characters and the overall plot progression. Unlike many series where the female lead starts off strong but gradually loses that strength to make other characters, especially the male lead, stand out, ‘Are You The One’ truly excels in this regard. From start to finish, the heroine needs no man to protect her. Her sharp mind, agility and smart moves always keep her safe and those around her. And, it goes same for the male lead Cui Xingzhou. Both characters are well crafted and maintain their original trait throughout the series, which is a rarity in C-Dramas because many scriptwriters fail to achieve this.
Also, If the director or screenwriter had not been so careful in handling the amnesiac plot, it could have easily become just another entry in the crowd of similar dramas. thankfully, they didn’t let this happen and presented the stoy in a very uniquely engaging way.
So, even though the story might be typical, the way how it is presented onscreen is surely captivating. There is laugh and humor to keep the overall story engaging. The pacing is neither too slow nor too fast, the script is well written and the plot execution is also well done.
Chemistry & Acting
Zhang Wanyi and Wang Churan onscreen chemistry is definitly a highlight of the show in ‘Are You The One’. I found myself giggling and kicking in the air every time this couple appeared in the second half of the series, especially once Cui Xingzhou started chasing the female lead. Zhang Wanyi and Wang Churan’s chemistry might not be off the charts, but yes the spark between them is certainly there. Their interactions are sweet, natural, pure and simply beautiful. And Zhang Wanyi’s cuteness? it was beyond adorable.
What I really liked about this onscreen duo is their tacit understanding, maturity and the mutual respect and support they have for each other. They might have spent very little time together, but they know each other the best. It’s just that before knowing each other, they somehow considered each other as enemies. But after their fate suddenly or unexpectedly brought them together, they became perfect soulmates. As a man, Cui Xingzhou understands what Liu Mian Tang truly wants and let her choose whatever she wants. The same can be said for Liu Mian Tang as she never impose limitations on him.
Zhang Wanyi as Lord Huaiyang Cui Xingzhou and Wang Churan as bold and ruthless leader was a perfect combination. Both actors carries this charm or aura that perfectly suited their characters and they both nailed their role perfectly.
In addition to the lead actors, Zhang Chi, who played Zhao Quan (Xingzhou’s right-hand man), never failed to make me laugh. Zhang Wanyi and Zhang Chi’s compatibility as a close friend was another delightful part of the drama. Additionally, Yuan Yu Xuan who played the fiance of Ziyu also left a significant impact on the show as her character transformed from being bullied in her own home to fighting for herself. Veteran actress Xu Mei Ling, who played the Grand Nanny, also brought humor and enjoyment to her role especially with her famous line “What A Sin”.
Iconic Scene in ‘Are You The One’
While talking about the most unforgettable scene in the drama, undoubtedly it would be the wedding of the main leads, Cui Xingzhou and Liu Mian Tang, in Episode 36. This particular scene is a beautiful piece of realism, extravagance, and exquisite detail. It’s clear that the director and scriptwriter including the whole production team poured great effort into crafting such a visually stunning sequence. The wedding scene perfectly conveys the profound importance of their love and the deep affection they share. It was a heartwarming yet powerful symbol of their commitment to each other.
Honestly, I’ve never seen a wedding in a costume drama as authentic and impressive as the one in “Are You The One.” It felt like I was personally attending their event, making it a truly special and joyful viewing experience. This was possible because the production team dedicated almost half of the episode for wedding procession, which is rare in most C-dramas. The ceremony included all the essential elements of a real wedding, making it feel very realistic. And let’s not forget how every line, every interaction between the two leads, and even the supporting characters, enhances the overall impact.
This wedding is one of those I’ll remember for a long time.
What Could Have Been Better
There were a few instances where the story felt somewhat rushed. For example, in Episode 23, after Liu Mian Tang find out the truth and depart, the scene abruptly jumps forward three months. During this time significant events occur in the city, particularly within the imperial palace such as the replacement of the old king and the restructuring of the entire court system.
it’s quite understandable since this arc isn’t centered around the two main characters. But it felt like something was missing or lacking in depth especially regarding the second male lead Ziyu. He had so much potential as a character and his growth, but it was kind of pity that he just appeared as very one dimensional character. Also, it somehow disconnected the overall emotional impact of Cui Xiingzhou and Liu Mian Tang’s departure because of this time jump.
Furthermore, every battle scene was chopped off hinting that the production team was on a tight budget. Cmon, from the opening scene, I was expecting more solid fighting scenes. Since the male lead, Cui Xingzho himself is the official minister who takes charge of the war and battlefields, i believe viewers at least deserves to see him in action except for just getting a few brief glimpses.
My Verdict – Absolutely Worth Watching
For the past few years, before watching any dramas, I’ve made a habit of keeping low expectations. “Are You The One” was no exception. Why? Because, even if series fall below expectations, i won’t get disappointed. But I’m happy to say that “Are You The One” is definitely one of the costume romance dramas I’ve enjoyed thoroughly in 2024. It has everything you could possibly ask for in a romance drama. So, If you’re a romance drama fan, especially those set in a historical backdrop, then “Are You The One” is definitely worth watching.
