I really didn't think I'd like this show as much as I do. There are only a few actors and actresses I like in c-drama in general. Yang Mi is one I follow. But their shows are still a hit or miss.

Pearl Eclipse is a great story, has a great flow. There are certain points that I am not too keen on. Example: the master not communicating or sharing his plans ... he holds too much in. But I guess it goes with the character. Bleh.

Yang Mi hits the mark every time. She appropriately fluctuates between cutesy and serious. Her behavior is subtle and perfect for the role. She doesn't swing to extremes like some FL we see in other dramas.

The emperor was annoying as heck, and has behavioral problems early on and for a good half of the show. But he does have character development. The Consort Shurong is a nice, passive lady. She's so passive that her role (to me) is flat and sits in the background. I do think this role could have been better than how it was interpreted or acted out.

The rest of the support roles hit their marks. I find myself really like the 3rd couple. Sincere, no drama, pure (brother and seamstress).

36 episodes in and it still intrigues me. I am on pins and needles waiting for the next episodes. The actual episodes are not as frustrating as the trailer makes it out to be. And although this is a love story, it looks like it'll be more about Hai Shi's rise. this is my fav in 2021, and certainly one of my favorite 10 out of all the dramas I've seen (and it's a lot).