The Killer Is Also Romantic (2022)

Mr. & Mrs. Smith but historical China

I saw this described as Mr. & Mrs. Smith but period C-Drama* and I would say that's a pretty accurate description.

The shortness of the drama left no space for filler episodes or unnecessary drama, which honestly was really great to watch. The emotions from the actors were very well portrayed, and I really loved seeing a female lead that was strong and could protect herself (which is unfortunately rare in these types of dramas). I wasn't as invested in the side couple as I was the main couple since I felt they were a little bit more cliché, but they were still interesting enough to watch.

Because this show is so short, I found myself hitting "next" all too often, which made this go by too quickly! But honestly it was truly a well-done show. It didn't feel like they were too low-budget (likely because it was short) so I was never pulled away in disbelief.

Nobody was ever annoying, everyone played an important role. There were funny moments, serious moments, romantic moments, and sad moments. The ending was a little too neatly tied together, but even so I still very much enjoyed it.

This is honestly one of my favorite C-Dramas now, just because it's so fun to watch!

*credit for the description to sarah-yyy on tumblr

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Unexpectedly Good!!

I would have to say for a short web drama, I didn't expect I would love this drama so much!! It is really like a chinese ancient remake of Mr&Mrs Smith. Although I binged and waited for this drama (even watched it raw), I will remove my rose-tinted glasses to give an objective review.

This drama is hilarious, it knows how to push my humor buttons, but soon it loses the novelty and comedy effect as the jokes become a little repetive. The drama also does a good job in balancing humor and seriousness, the first few episodes leading up focused on it being funny, but after the climax, it tones that down.

As it is a 10-15min drama for each episode, the story is jam packed without any dull moments.
***SPOILER***
However, I do think the part on politics and motivations for their mission could be written better, it seems a little underwhelming and weird to me (or it could be that I didn't understand the politics part using my limited chinese vocabulary).
***END SPOILER***

The chemistry between the two leads was amazing, I hope we can see them paired up in another drama. And their kissess oh gosh!!
***SPOILER***
Their kisses were unlike 2 wooden sticks, it was deep and intense, they didn't shy away!
***END SPOILER***

All the characters even supporting characters like the aunty who sells kite were very lovable except for wen fang. I have this love hate relationship towards him. I think its the way that he was written as a dumb but also very pure character so can't really blame him. So just be warned that he can be annoying, but also cute at times.

The production also seem high for a 180min drama. This drama seemed to have a variety of costumes, pretty good soundtracks and I also do like how the scriptwriter uses the fl occupation to discuss about certain topics. The camera language and editing was decent except for this one / two scenes which the episode ending scene and beginning scene didn't connect, it really takes people out of the story... Apart from that I think the production team did a good job in producing this drama.

Nonetheless, this drama really has exceeded my expectations, I laughed a lot and I recommend watching it after a stressful day, super enjoyable! Its really a hidden gem and should deserve more hype, sometimes all you need is a simple and light hearted story. Definitely recommend! Overall, I would rate it 8.3, so rounding it up would be an 8.5!

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Surprisingly entertaining short web drama

Completed - 4/15/2022

MangoTV has been churning out these short web dramas that are surprisingly entertaining. I am not sure why this drama is called "The Killer is Also Romantic" as the Chinese title is the combination of the leads names, Nian Nian Wu Ming. It could be loosely translated as Missing/Thinking of Wu Ming.

In a little over 3 hours, this drama is able to tell a funny and interesting story about a couple who each has a hidden identity. The fun is when each of the leads tries to hide their real identity and personality, and of course, we want to find out what happens when the secrets are out. As another reviewer said, it's like the Chinese historical version of Mr & Mrs Smith. Coming into this, I have pretty low expectations, just like the other MangoTV drama "Emperor or Boss", which has the same male lead, Yang Ze. The plot is simple, but the chemistry and acting are decent. For a low budget web drama, I am pleased to see that nothing seems cheap. There is no annoying character, two smart and capable leads and we got some decent kisses (and many almost kisses).

If you need a palate cleanser from a serious drama and got a few hours to kill, this is perfect.

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Perfect blend of historical romance and action

Literally all I want in my cdramas: smart-witted FL, caring and sweet ML, fabulous and equal romance, fun side action, and low key political plot. It’s the perfect length too at around 3 hours or so. We get lots of cute, romantic moments between the main couple as well as a sweet secondary couple and some kickass action while laughing out loud. Good vibes only!!

Side note: Apparently MGTV is the company making all these shorter web series, and I’m a huge fan!! I also tried out Hold On, My Lady which was also produced by them and enjoyed it as well. Will definitely be following for more despite the horrible subs!

PROS
❀ Unique main romance set-up | I feel like it’s uncommon for cdramas to have the couple be together when the show starts. Well, this is it. While we get a couple minutes of flashback to see how they got together, most of the romantic storyline is them hiding their hidden identities and then realizing how much they love one another despite those identities. I love how both of them can fight while having a normal civilian life (he’s a doctor while she’s the owner of a clothing store). They’re way more similar than not! Especially since both of them work as spies LMAO.
The side couple is cute too! It features the FL’s visually impaired sister with the ML’s good friend that he’s protective of. It’s a wholesome romance line with a very adorkable couple.
❀ Good enough action and plot to keep the story going | While the couple is trying to be a normal couple, they’re also trying to leave their spy jobs. Seems like it’s not that easy, and the plot thickens while their love gets tested.
❀ Yaas skinship | Got some good skinship moments. Sometimes the couple’s kisses are awkward but at least they be trying!! Unlike most kisses that are barely there/just a tap. Plus all the actors are eye candy so sis ain’t complaining.

CONS
✕ MGTV really thinks they can just machine translate and be done with the subs | Apparently this company is known for their bad subs, even though they produce such fun dramas. Sad!! It felt worse than Google Translate at some points as nouns were literally being mistranslated (they called someone a “proton” like —). I guess it wasn’t too bad for me since I’m used to reading machine translations of cnovels (truly a skill…) but it does take away from the enjoyment :’)
✕ Not the biggest fan of the ending | It was so anticlimactic. (SPOILERS AHEAD) so they just gonna live under the radar outside the city forever?? What a waste of their spy abilities and missions from the past. While I enjoyed the action, the whole political plot felt a bit lazy/loosely written, and there could have been a more satisfying ending for the couples. I understand it’s important that they have each other, butttt I’d rather have them living a normal life rather than keeping themselves hidden in the outskirts of city life. I’m certainly not expecting top notch resolutions considering this is a short drama, but I feel like our couples deserved better (even though they were certainly alright. I guess the important thing is that everyone is alive, lol?)
✕ Misunderstanding level: 0/10 | While the couple hid their secret identities from each other, the resolution was pretty solid and didn’t drag out. Plus it led to some steamy romantic scenes so again, I’m not complaining ;)

OVERALL
Honestly the only reason I picked this up was because of the raving comments. Do yourself a favor and give it a try! The episodes are only 12-15 min long - not a huge commitment. The comments about comparing it to Mr. and Mrs. Smith are spot on, so if that’s your vibe then you won’t be disappointed. No need to thank us later ;)

TL;DR: this shorter drama will make you laugh out loud with both its comedic and romantic moments. Just be prepared for the cumbersome subs.

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Strong female killer finds romance

This is a fast paced action romance with plenty of smiles and laughs.
I liked that our strong FL decides he is the one for her and pursues him. They are both hiding their secret identities so the decision to marry carries some danger and they both need to hide deceive the other.
Our FL is a very competent businesswoman and used to giving orders and sidelines as a very good assassin.
Our ML looks like a sweet gentleman and is a clever doctor who sidelines as a bodyguard.
Their marriage interactions are funny as the FL tries (often unsuccessfully) to appear as a demure and agreeable lady.
The action scenes are good and the overall look is well done for a budget drama and it has fast paced action to fit in the short series of episodes.
The FL's sister is given the added interest of blindness and her protector is very sweet to her.
This is entertaining and easy to watch - perfect as a foil to the more angst inducing Wuxia dramas.
It would be nice to have a second season as I don't think our heroes can maintain domesticity for too long.

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Entertaining short drama!

I found this drama engaging and entertaining. There were 3 episodes of close to 1 hour each.

What I liked:
- FL and ML have good chemistry. I liked that they were very adult in their behaviour. The last part in which they fought each other and then, made up with each other with kisses and a romp in bed was too cute.
- The supporting characters are generally likable and aren't too annoying or villainous.
- Despite being hired killers, the FL and ML are inherently good people who do not go after the innocents.
- Plot is very fast-paced and action-packed.
- The visuals are very pleasant.
- I found the plot meaningful. (i) To avoid conflict and misunderstanding with the other important parties/ persons in our life, we should be honest with them and not hide/ have secrets; (ii) All of us have different facets. We show some sides and we hide some sides. But, they are all us. All our facets, whether shown to others or hidden from others, make us who we are; (iii) We need to understand that there are sides that others wish to hide from us and they have their reasons for doing so; (iv) We should try to accept our significant other's true personality and preferences. We should try to be open and accepting.
- Happy ending!!

I truly enjoyed this drama because it is 'short and sweet'. I'd say: Watch It! It's a cute and fun ride! :)

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Entertaining, funny and sweet romantic comedy

Binge worthy mini drama (18 episodes with each episodes only ~12mins long). Unexpectedly good production with excellent chemistry between the leads. If you are looking for a light hearted romantic comedy, I would highly recommend this series. I found it funny and entertaining. Relationship between leads develops very fast, love the passionate kisses and strong female lead character. Plot was interesting and has good pacing though you can't expect too much for such a short series.

I have not watched the 2 leads before but am interested to check out other dramas by these 2 actors, especially the ML (Yang Zhe). His other drama Destined to Meet You seems to have good reviews though it is also a short drama series. I hope he gets opportunities to do full drama series in future.

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A great little drama literally murdered by horrible subs by MangoTV.

This is Mr. & Mrs. Smith wuxia style. They adore each other, bless their little hearts, but he's the palace's secret agent and she's a gun for hire - so to speak. And they don't know that about each other.

Goodness gracious, the shenanigans! Not only is the writing truly hilarious, the actors play their parts perfectly which adds to the overall funny - and yet loving - tone of this web drama.

It's too bad that Mango butchered the subs so badly. Because of it, the overall plot with the palace intrigue and whatnot is literally lost in translation. I kinda doubt that the visiting... official or whatever was really a "proton" 🤨

Also, the ending song is truly lovely.

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One word "Perfection"

When I got this recommended I wasn't so sure about this cuz they said it's Mr and Mrs Smith in ancient china
I was a bit skeptical Oh how wrong I was
It was so good
The cast also did a great job
I really love the fighting scenes and it makes me thrilled too
The comedy in there will makes you laugh every seconds without ruining the storyline
It doesn't feel like I sat there watching it for some hours It felt like a minute
I really love the pace of plot
And the romance scenes are so sweet

If you haven't watched it yet I'm telling you You're missing out! Go watch it!

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A wuxia drama that ticked all the boxes

Obviously, a bold statement like that comes with caveats. This drama works because it is so short. In total length, it is the equivalent of an extra long movie or a very short drama series. It is chopped up into bite sized pieces for easy consumption. While some short form web dramas stick to a fixed episode duration, this show is more flexible and is designed to finish each episode logically and sometimes even with a mini cliff-hanger. Similarly, such short dramas tend to be cheaply and quickly made for obvious reasons. However, this show didn’t feel overly cheap. It used a lot of existing assets so that it can still look lush without having a huge overhead. Its short run helps when you can literally shoot the same house/streetscape from different angles and time of day to make it look like a much larger set has been used without being repetitive. That takes clever planning, cinematography and direction.

The story is straight out of the classic Book of Plots. It is as tropey as any wuxia drama can be, but the Show distilled it down to the bits that people love about this genre, but do away with the excess baggage. There is nothing new about the plot nor the characterisation, but they are done well.

Being a wuxia romance, I can’t fault their take on the two key elements. There are some decent fight scenes that are cinematic and well choreographed. The two main leads have great chemistry and there is a decent amount of skinship including several passionate kisses. The 2OTP was a little contrived but they are a cute and innocent couple. It was a pleasure to see the push-pull of the 1OTP over and done with in 5 minutes instead of being dragged out for hours. Huzzah!

Another aspect that surprised me was the amount of comedy in the show. There are actual laugh out loud moments. Yes, they are clichés, but they ain’t forced nor laboured. I also appreciate that the plot is logical (within the realms of a wuxia playbook) and it flowed smoothly. Just when you expected something to happen with the plot, it happens. They even have time for some sweet CP moments which gave nuance to their relationship which can be lacking in dramas that are much longer. Like I said, this drama really know how to tick all the boxes.

In terms of acting, the cast did well. There are no big-name actors on the roster but there was energy and commitment from the cast. The 2 main leads were particularly well suited to their roles, and they have their moments. By keeping the cast small, there is time for some the support roles to shine as well.

From my perspective, there are two things that can be improved. Firstly, the ending was nice but lacked impact. I would have like to see the two leads fight as a team to take down the antagonist. The ending is also a bit wishy-washy as if the Show wanted to leave it open for a sequel (yes, please!). Secondly, the English sub was bad. At times it read like auto generated dross (which it probably is). Occasionally, it is completely out of sync.

There is no point in comparing this show to a classic wuxia drama from the "golden era" but it certainly held its own against some turnkey productions. For a quick wuxia fix, you can do worse.

OST was nice and appropriate. I can certainly rewatch this show without hesitation.

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