“The Story of Ming Lan” is a daunting task for even us, the extreme drama addicts, due to its length. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea for three reasons: (1) it is a slice of life filled to the brim with family drama, (2) may seem slow at times, and (3) action is scarce. I took a chance on Ming Lan because it does not fit my usual preferences, but in return, I was given a rewarding experience.

Story:
The core focus of the story is to showcase family dynamics fueled by blood purity, filial piety, and social class. Those born under a man’s main wife are considered legitimate, while those under a man’s concubine are illegitimate. Despite either status, one is expected to observe and conduct filial piety under any and all circumstance. One must not, and cannot afford to, offend their superiors in a higher social class than them. Revolving these three main fires, conflicts arise, and are mainly put out through dialogue.

For the most part, the presentation of the plot was told ever so matter-of-factly. There was rarely any over-exaggeration of arguments, discipline, or punishment. It was almost as if the drama shrugged, and said, “This is how things were back during the Song Dynasty.” If there was a dramatic scene, it would be shown comedically (you would know by the accompanying instrumental), almost in a satirical way, inviting the viewers to, yes, laugh at the characters.

The story could feel repetitive. The two main leads, Ming Lan and Gu Ting Ye, are extremely intelligent, meticulous, and calculative. Once they devise and implement a plan, everything goes their way, pawns moving and barking according to how they predicted. When others scheme against them, the leads are able to safely weave themselves out of their enemies’ web by using their wit. Despite the predictable end to all problems, it is interesting to see how the leads set up traps and watch their prey fall in. The drama also does a fantastic job at delivering comedic relief during appropriate times to break up the monotony.

Characters:
One of the drama’s charms is its undoubtedly large cast. Though it may be difficult to recognize and remember everyone, the writing and its conveyance of each supporting character make it easier. Each character has layers of depth, a personality that makes them memorable and human. Everyone, from mere servants to the emperor, has a role in contributing to the plot. The characters are a product of their birth status and social class. Their actions are driven by their desires to seek wealth and a higher class, or to preserve their reputation and lives. If you cast modern thoughts aside and step into these characters’ shoes, it is a joy to watch, especially as some risk it all to achieve their goals.

The main leads are more modern, suiting better with most viewers. They seek justice and happiness, preferring not to be entangled with their families’ struggles, but they soon find out they have no choice but to step up. They may not want conflict, but trouble finds them.

Ming Lan understands how the gears turn in the society she lives in; therefore, she does not overstep the boundaries that have been set around her. Always proceeding with caution and pretending to be a typical young lady from a scholarly family, it is a wild turn when she reveals her true nature to those closest to her in order to uphold justice.

Gu Ting Ye is the eyesore of his maternal and paternal families who covet wealth and a noble title. Blood is not always thicker than water, and GTY gets this rude awakening early on in the drama. Surrounded by people who put on a facade, all he wants is someone who loves and treats him sincerely. It is a heartwarming sight to see how he repays that genuineness.

ML+GTY:
More often than not, I watch female leads start off smart and strong, but when their other half enters the picture, it is as if the female forgets how to think or fight.

Romance is not the drama’s focal point. It is mostly subtle, but when it is explicit, the scenes are both cute and endearing. Ming Lan and Gu Ting Ye are undoubtedly a power couple, probably the best pairing I have ever seen. They communicate, airing out their feelings and thoughts, and support each other in their respective endeavors.

What I like about them the most is the fact they complement each other, never outshining or overshadowing the other. They are equals, fully understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses. For example, ML encounters countless of issues, but she solves them all without the help of GTY who trusts in her ability to overcome them. In exchange, ML trusts GTY to save and protect her from danger because she does not know martial arts. 
The drama is called “The Story of Ming Lan”, so I appreciate how the titular character’s strengths are not diminished due to her partner. Instead, he lets her spread her wings and soar like the phoenix that she is. Ming Lan is given the respect and the spotlight she deserves.

Conclusion:
Overall, I would not say this is a must-watch drama, but I would say to give it a fair chance despite the perhaps overwhelming reasons not to do so. Given the ensemble cast, do expect ZLY and FSF to disappear from time to time. The collective effort of all cast members make this project what it is, a well-rounded and enjoyable drama. It is truly unlike any other.

I like to say, “Long dramas often take you on wonderful journeys.” Do keep that in mind.