Once Again (2024)

Marriage -- A Carousel of Love and Struggles

This drama is a poignant exploration of marriage and family dynamics in modern China, where the rising divorce rate has become a pressing societal issue. In mega-cities like Shanghai, over half of marriages end in divorce, with Tianjin reportedly reaching an alarming 75%. The government's intervention with policies like the mandatory "cooling-off" period for divorce reflects the urgency of this problem. Against this backdrop, the drama becomes highly relatable, delving into the intricacies of family, love, and societal expectations.

A Storyline That Mirrors Real Life

The plot centers around Hao You Jia (Zhang Xiao Fei), a pediatrician from a blended family. Her parents divorced when she was young, and her mother remarried, blending two families with children from previous marriages and one from their union. Despite being adults, the six family members live under one roof, dealing with the aftermath of divorces and complex family ties.

Hao You Jia works alongside her husband, Peng Hao Dong (Tong Da Wei), in the same hospital. While she is a brilliant but blunt doctor with uncompromising ethics, he is a charismatic leader well-loved by colleagues and her family. Their contrasting personalities lead to frequent squabbles, further strained by Peng’s devotion to his overbearing mother, who shares a contentious relationship with Hao You Jia.

The drama takes an interesting turn when Hao You Jia demands a divorce. However, due to the new laws and societal pressures, they keep their separation a secret, continuing their daily routines as if nothing has changed. This facade eventually unravels, leading to chaos and revelations that test their bonds and values.

Complex Characters and Exceptional Acting

The cast delivers stellar performances, bringing depth to their roles. Zhang Xiao Fei and Tong Da Wei skillfully portray a couple caught between love and conflict. Their fast-paced arguments and emotional exchanges are engaging and relatable.

The supporting characters are equally compelling. Peng Hao Dong’s mother, initially grating with her pretentious demeanor, evolves into a poignant figure—a lonely woman clinging to her sons out of love and unfulfilled hopes. Similarly, Hao You Jia’s mother, driven by societal pride, undergoes a transformation as she prioritizes her children's happiness over appearances.

The siblings' stories enrich the narrative. Luo Wen Cong (Yu Yi), Hao You Jia’s stepbrother, shines as a resilient action movie double and devoted father to his mute daughter. His twin sister, Luo Wen Hui (Sui Jun Bo), is a sympathetic figure, navigating life as a single mother after her ex-husband’s infidelity. Their bond adds warmth and humor. Meanwhile, their youngest sister, Luo Yu Ting (Hu Yi Xuan), brings gentleness and compassion to the story.

A Subtle Approach to Romance

While the drama primarily focuses on marriage and family, moments of romance add charm. The main couple’s relationship, though fraught with tension, includes genuine displays of affection. Side couples offer lighter, engaging romantic subplots, including a heartwarming age-gap romance and rekindled love between divorced partners.

A Realistic and Heartwarming Ending

The drama concludes on a hopeful note, emphasizing growth, understanding, and acceptance. Rather than a clichéd rags-to-riches transformation, the characters learn to coexist peacefully, embracing imperfections and building stronger bonds. The closing wedding scenes beautifully encapsulate the theme of resilience and reconciliation.

Peng Hao Dong’s reflective words resonate deeply:

"Marriage is not a competition. The best relationship is heart-to-heart, built on trust and understanding. A home is a safe haven because it’s where the person who knows and loves you the most is. Walk into each other’s hearts, become part of each other, and create a warm home filled with acceptance and support."

Final Thoughts

This drama is a heartfelt portrayal of modern relationships, blending realism with compelling storytelling. It captures the challenges and joys of family life, leaving viewers with a deeper appreciation of love, compromise, and connection. Whether you’re familiar with Chinese cultural nuances or not, this series offers universal lessons on what it means to build a home.

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