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Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes

Two in one since they’re all Hu Ge’s dramas. 🙂

English Title: Nirvana in Fire
Chinese Title: 琅琊榜
Cast: Liu Tao, Hu Ge, Nick Wang
# of Episodes: 54
Airing Days: TBA
Broadcasting Station: Beijing TV, Shanghai Oriental
Synopsis: How far will a mighty soldier go to protect his people? During the great unrest of 4th-century China, war breaks out between the feudal Northern Wei and Southern Liang dynasties. General Lin Xie of Liang takes his only 17-year-old son, Lin Shu (Hu Ge), into battle and successfully fights off the hostile Wei army. But when a political rival frames General Lin Xie, it causes the deaths of 70,000 Chi Yan army soldiers. Lin Shu is able to escape with his life with the help of a loyal subordinate. Twelve years later, Lin Shu establishes the Jiang Zuo Alliance and returns to the capital as the leader Mei Changsu. When the Northern Wei forces mount another attack, to what lengths will Mei Changsu go to protect his own people? “Nirvana in Fire” is a 2015 Mainland drama series directed by Kong Sheng and Li Xue. [Credit: Viki]

NOTE: Stream Nirvana in Fire with English Subs @ Viki.

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***160th COMPLETED PROJECT!!***

English Title: The Disguiser
Chinese Title: 伪装者
Cast: Hu Ge, Jin Dong, Song Yi, Nick Wang
# of Episodes: 41
Airing Days: Everyday
Broadcasting Station: Many stations
Synopsis: Set in the Japanese occupation era, the rich yet naive young master Ming Tai is trained to become an agent, and is later sent to become an underground spy for the Communists. Together with his brother and double agent Ming Lou, they try and bring down Wang Wei’s Kuomintang Secret Service Headquarters. [Credit: Viki]

NOTE: Stream The Disguiser with English Subs @ Viki.

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***159th COMPLETED PROJECT!!***

Kap: Alright, I’m encoding both dramas at the moment and they should be done tomorrow afternoon. In the mean time, have fun with the First Impression Seashell Chart! =)

Our Seashell’s First Impression Rating Chart (based on first four-six episodes)
– Story:
– Chemistry:
– Acting:
– Directing:
– Entertainment Value:

Use this star symbol ✪✪✪✪✪. Half a star = ½

  1. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Bookmarking!

    The Disguiser

    – Story: ✪✪✪✪
    I had to Wikipedia some of the history background for the first few episodes. The beginning is somewhat confusing as they’re introducing the characters and their positions in the government, but as the story progresses, things become clearer.
    –Chemistry: ✪✪✪✪
    There are many pairings here, none of them of the romantic variety. The bromance is strong and their interactions can either be entertaining, amusing or touching.
    – Acting: ✪✪✪✪
    I wanted to give 5 seashells here but I’m still in the early part of the series (ep 9) so I’ll do 4 for now. I love almost everyone here so far, but Jin Dong, Liu Min Tao, Nick Wang and Song Yi stand out the most. Hu Ge is his usual self and I’m waiting for his character’s breaking point to find out if he gets the 5th seashell.
    – Directing: ✪✪✪1/2
    Coming from the same production company as Battle of Changsha, I was expecting top notch quality. However, there are a few exaggerated elements that caught me off guard. Hoping this improves later on.
    – Entertainment Value: ✪✪✪✪
    Love the bromance, love all the confusing identities. I’m having fun guessing their true identities. ?

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      Bromance is definitely strong with this one. I would’ve given The Disguiser 5 stars if only their female characters didn’t have sudden and random onset of complete idiocy. (Like delaying a rescue mission for a runaway kid or yelling his name at the top of her lungs in the midst of stealth operation. Yes little rabbit, do hop right into the trap.) Other than those momentary lapse in judgment, the show is well written and jam packed with intrigue, action, and of course, character development. “There are no friends nor enemies, just people with the same or different goals.”

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      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        if only their female characters didn’t have sudden and random onset of complete idiocy

        Hahaha! I haven’t gotten far into the drama yet but I’m now waiting to see this. Yu Man Li is the reckless one so far and while I like Song Yi’s performance, the character annoyed me at the beginning with her selfish decisions. Like her trying to escape during their first mission and in the middle of a bombing. How about finding a place to hide and not get blown up first?

        Do you feel the same way about the older sister Ming Jing?

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        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          I feel the older sister Ming Jing is the female lead. People either adore her and worship the ground she walks on (see the Ming brothers). Or hate her enough to want to shred her to pieces (see Wang Man Chun). She is the only female character behaving consistently throughout the whole drama. The ways she babies and disciplines her younger brothers would have you cover your mouth and hope you didn’t laugh too hard. Then there is her wanting to help with the war effort but don’t know how and is clueless to the minions operating in her house. Subterfuge and subtlety, she is not.

          As for Yu Man Li, femme fatale to the end. She loves with deadly passion and reckless abandonment. Ming Tai and her make an awesome team dancing, flirting and shooting their way through the enemy defense. I read online that she is not his romantic interest. Such a pity.

          Wang Man Chun and Cheng Jin Yun are two women who upset me to no end. Textbooks worldwide should use their faux pas as examples of how a woman agent should not act in war time.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Thanks for sharing your thoughts. 😀 What episode are you on?

          I loved that part where Ming Jing crashed the party and started to rip Wang Man Chun apart in front of the others.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Best party crashing scene EVER! Ming Jing goes right up to Ming Lou demanding to know when he was back in Shanghai and without waiting for a reply she SLAPS him across the face…in front of everybody. Yes, sister, don’t let a few bystanders stop you from disciplining your brother. Then her scathing remark comparing Wang Man Chun to a book really takes the cake. You can practically see fire shooting out of Wang’s eyes. That woman sure knows how to push ppl’s buttons.

          I’m up episode 32. Almost the end.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Wow! I only finished episode 9 the other day. Not enough time for two great dramas at once.

          Her book analogy was the highlight of that scene for me. Wang Man Chun’s face was priceless. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a better confrontation scene than that between two women.

          Poor Ming Lou had to endure the whole thing. I’m starting to feel sorry for him.

  2. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    I am Hu Ge fan but I don’t think I’m watching these. Don’t think the story line would be good. Possibly lots of dragging out moments. Anyone planning to watch this, please do update us with the progress. Thanks.

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      I generally don’t like dramas that are too political and “plot-y”, which both of these are, but trust me. They’re actually pretty amazing. It’s from the same producer, and both are really tight plot-wise. Plus, the acting is amazing from nearly everyone.

      Reply ↓

  3. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    ALWAYS HERE FOR MORE HU GE!!! 🙂

    Seriously, I’ve missed having Hu Ge’s wonderful charisma gracing my screen – and I’m so glad to see his dramas finally airing! I can’t wait to spend some time sitting down with Nirvana in Fire! 🙂

    Reply ↓

  4. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    I think of the two dramas, the premise of The Disguiser intrigues me more but I’m in love with Liu Tao as a general. She looks lovely. Hu Ge continues his sickness from Sound of the Desert. Lol. But subbing for both dramas are rather slow so I can just leisurely wait and see!

    Hu Ge – Jin Dong – Nick Wang are like real bros now. They come as a set of three. LOL!!

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      All we’re missing is a modern drama from the trio. The collection will be complete then. XD

      Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      But I think Hu Ge’s so much hotter in this one, cuz this sick dude is totally in control. He came back with a mission. He’s cunning, can be cruel, and is out for revenge. No more Mr.-nice-i-will-sacrifice-for-you. Now it’s I-can-and-will-sacrifice-any-of-you (except a few) -to-complete-my-awesome-masterplan.

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        I love your description… lol. I agree Hu Ge’s Mei Chang Su is scheming and calculative that I like, not saying I don’t like Jiu Ye, they are similar due to their so-call sickness and the gracefulness but Mei Chang su is still much stronger and less nicer than jiu ye…. like you say the guy got the whole palace under his control… I enjoy watching him wreck havoc… ”Evil Laugh”

        I really love and enjoy watching both nirvana and disguiser right now, yall would not believe the struggles to go back and forth to watch one or decide which one to watch first… lol im exaggerating but I really love both drama right and a little lazy so I am going rate a big fat 5 for everything because I’m bias….

        Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      Maybe they will do a modern drama next.

      LOL@ Sick dude in control. You made him sexy all in one line.

      The bros in a selfie and sending it to each other. =D

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        I think those three are so adorable in interviews/promo-stuff. The bromance is AMAZING between Jin Dong and Wang Kai’s characters, but I feel like Hu Ge’s a little left out of their brother-circle in the drama. He seems closer to his fellow comrades from the military school (Yu Man Li and the other dude that’s part of their “squad”).
        I wasn’t planning on watching The Disguiser at first, but I ended up starting it and now I’m watching both. They’re both so. good!
        Except. In The Disguiser, I’m really disliking Cheng Jin Yun (aka Ming Tai/Hu Ge’s love interest). She’s…bland. They have no chemistry, her character’s kind of flat and idiotic, and their love progresses in a strange and unrealistic, too-fast way. IMO, Yu Man Li and Ming Tai have a lot of chemistry, but alas, they’re not destined to be.

        Reply ↓

  5. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Finally finished the first batch of Nirvana of Fire episodes.

    – Story: ✪✪✪✪
    I loved the book so I may be a bit biased here. =P The story so far is very quick paced and a few things have been changed from the book, such as extending the beginning of the story to give the audience a more complete picture of Mei Changsu’s history. The author is also the scriptwriter so I am fairly confident the drama will not stray too far from the novel.
    – Chemistry: ✪✪✪✪
    Hu Ge has also worked with a few of the leads and I can certainly see some of the sparks that they bring, e.g. Jin Dong and Hu Ge, Chen Long and Hu Ge, of course Nick Wang with him as well. =P Now, many people say that he and Liu Tao don’t really match here. I am neutral about that. The air between them right now is kind of interesting. They definitely look too comfy as friends who have just met, but that’s the impression that Liu Tao’s character gets from him. Last but not least, I really like Leo Wu’s Fei Liu with Hu Ge.
    – Acting: ✪✪✪
    Shanying doesn’t just hire anyone for their dramas. It’s srs bsns for them. I think that’s why they’re able to produce high quality dramas with great casts. I’m giving it 3 seashells so far because I feel that it’s way too early to judge the newer actors. But if you want to know, the veterans are doing just fabulous.
    – Directing: ✪✪✪✪✪
    I love the colors. So muted. And is it just me or doe most scenes have this calming, ethereal effect to it?
    – Entertainment Value: ✪✪✪✪

    Reply ↓

  6. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Despite my lack of Chinese, I like Nirvana’s first 2 episodes! Acting is great from all the cast, and I love the muted colors too! I had to pause several times while watching, though, to read the characters reference (with their matching pictures) and the synopsis, otherwise I’d be totally clueless. Will be rewatching when English sub is available – hopefully soon.

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      Don’t the muted colors remind you of a Chinese shan shui (mountain water) painting? So pretty. It’s a refreshing change after seeing so many bright sets and costumes.

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        It does, and it’s so soothing to the eyes :). Wish for more like this in period dramas, esp those set in ancient times 🙂

        Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        I LOVE the muted colors because it’s what historical/period dramas should look like. The period dramas lately have too many bright colors that looks pretty, but aren’t very true to historical accuracy.

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  7. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    reading your comments guys, i hope viki team will sub this 🙂
    and DC or Myasiantv will upload it hehe..

    btw Nirvana in fire’s ost by Liu Tao is still my jam.. i dunno.. but she delivered the feeling of that song so well.. so gonna watch that drama with engsub of course 😀

    Reply ↓

  8. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Just finished episode 7 of Nirvana in Fire and I can’t even describe how much I love it so far. Sure, there are some major changes from the book, especially between Ni Huang and Mei Chang Su, but it all works out. I like the tension between the two of them and I appreciate that it’s not overly done. A step up from the novel but fantastic nonetheless.

    I’m having a much easier time watching this than The Disguiser. I love that one too, but NIF is just so attractive in all aspects. Flying through the episodes and wishing there was more time in my schedule to watch.

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      Sigh, I wish I could understand Mandarin! I’m just at episode 5, and were it not for the constant reading and rereading the characters description and the English translation of the first several chapters of the book, I’d probably given up and would wait until the sub is available. OK, not true, I would still have watched it regardless LOL. The cast are great (though I can’t help comparing Hu Ge here and in Da Mo Yao), but I’m wondering if Princess Nihuang was played by Jiang Xin or Jia Qing 🙂

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        You can watch it without the subtitles and just admire the cinematography, then come back to it later when the subtitles are available. =)

        I haven’t watched Da Mo Yao. Felt really bothered by the major changes in names and the release took too long so my interest was lost. But I did read the books and can see some resemblance between Mei Chang Su and Jiu Ye. MCS is more multifaceted in my opinion. One can never figure out what he’s truly thinking about.

        Jiang Xin and Jia Qing could pull off Ni Huang, but I think Liu Tao brings a different kind of feeling to the character. I’m liking her so, though I can’t pinpoint what it is that makes her enjoyable.

        Reply ↓

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          I think Liu Tao brings in the maturity and the self-confidence of a seasoned general and someone from a highly affluent family in her delivery. Her Princess Nihuang is badass and no-nonsense, has strong self-control, but is also sometimes motherly. Jiang Xin and Jia Qing, while probably giving a perfect portrayal of a confident and accomplished general, may not be as successful to show that kind of maturity.

          Thank God the first episode has been subbed (YASS!), so I could return and filled in the voids from the first time watch. Warning SPOILER: it’s a great episode because it introduces us to more strong female characters, Xia Dong (the female investigator and Prince Nihuang’s army fellow) and Prince Yu’s strategist (Qin Banruo). Even if they’re working for the antagonist’s side, they are strong, highly intelligent, and have integrity. I hope their characters won’t be turned into the stereotypical evil and cunning women.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          If they are sticking to the book, then no, Qin Banruo and Xia Dong won’t be the typical evil women. I think in a drama like this, there’s no true evil character. They are just doing what they think is right in their position. I prefer this much more than the harem dramas where the women seem to have nothing to do but make lives miserable for each other lol.

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      I’ve said this in another thread but seriously Nirvana in Fire is EVERYTHING I wanna see in a historical drama. It’s on the caliber of the epic Three Kingdoms and I don’t say this lightly because that one was a frign classic of epic win proportions. Nirvana in Fire has restored my faith in Cdramas. I knew I could count on Shanying and they seriously did not disappoint.

      Everything from script, cast, acting, costumes, setting, music, mood, artistry, action choreography – A++ QUALITY. This is truly the best Goddamn drama of the year and OMG I can’t stop singing its praises.

      The muted colors are perfect for a drama like this and fits historical accuracy much more than the colorful palette often in the Cdramas of late. The acting is top-notch and I LOVE the atmosphere. The script is nicely paced and even though there’s not much fighting, there’s always tension to keep me on the edge of my seat. This is where artistry and entertainment meet into a perfect balance and if only all Cdramas were made with love like this! I love the action scenes cuz it’s got none of that overdone CGI stuff – the wuxia these days are so overloaded with that and it just totally destroys any realism I expect to see in a historical drama.

      Hu Ge and Liu Tao are SO AMAZING in their roles and everyone else in the cast is great too. This cast is more mature and their experience brings so much more gravitas to the roles. Even the younger cast members (like the girl who plays Gongyu) are great too. LOL Wu Lei fans should see this cuz he’s cute as a button while being badass at the same time.

      Reply ↓

  9. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    May I ask how many episodes do we get each week for the Nirvana in Fire? So far, I am watching ep11 on youtube.

    Reply ↓

  10. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    I’m watching NIF but my Chinese is so dismal that I’m back to waiting for subs for episode two lol…enjoy it so far

    Reply ↓

  11. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    T.T I just watched the latest ep of The Disguiser, and no spoilers, but I cried right along with Hu Ge. He’s an amazing crier. He just makes you cry right along with him. You know those criers that cry either crazy loud and screamy or silent and prettily? Yeah those don’t do it for me. Watching Hu Ge cry though, so real.

    Reply ↓

  12. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    I watched the first 7 episodes of Nirvana in Fire and barely got a wink of sleep as a result! I could gush about this drama all day but here’s my first impression of the drama:

    – Story: ✪✪✪✪✪
    – Chemistry: ✪✪✪✪✪
    – Acting: ✪✪✪✪✪
    – Directing: ✪✪✪✪✪
    – Entertainment Value: ✪✪✪✪✪+

    As you can probably tell, I’m loving it to pieces right now ^o^

    Reply ↓

  13. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Finished ep 17 of Nirvana in Fire and I have to say that, for once, I am glad that they adapted the books into a drama. Even the tweaks work seamlessly, imho.

    Hu Ge is spectacular here, even more so than The Disguiser because Jin Dong stole the limelight there. HG’s portrayal of Mei Chang Su is on spot. So very glad that his fans recommended him to read the book and that Shanying chose him to play the protagonist. You could tell that he fully immersed himself into the role.

    WARNING: SPOILERS

    I shed a few tears at the end of episode 11 when he touched the fire and his bitter laugh following it. One could definitely feel the heavy burden that he is shouldering.

    Episode 12 also made me cry. The whole scene of Princess Ni Huang confronting him at the pavilion was done so nicely. The tears in her eyes as she watched him speak and also the background song. Ugh. So. Pretty. I totally lost it when she pulled up his sleeve and pulled down his collar, trying to look for traces of his former self. I usually don’t like crying reunion scenes as they can be incredibly corny, but this was so poignant.

    END SPOILERS

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      Hu Ge is a phenomenal actor and has so much charisma that he totally holds your interest in him the whole time. Excellent choice in choosing him to play Mei Changsu cuz there aren’t that many actors who can play his complexity so well and look the part at the same time. Hu Ge is a natural at period dramas and this sort of role is perfect for him.

      Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      Hu Ge needs to do more Shanying dramas because their quality productions do justice to his talent. I’m so glad he doesn’t film so many Tangren dramas these days cuz they waste talent there.

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        Yep, I’m glad he doesn’t film TR dramas that often. But I think his status in the agency is so high up now that he’s able to choose his projects more freely. Which is good because we want more Shanying dramas for him!

        Reply ↓

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Yeah I liked Tangren back when they did Chinese Paladin…but ever since then, I feel like there’s been no growth in quality. Everything’s sort of idol-ish and meh. There’s like a lack of quality substance, and things just look nice…and don’t even looks that nice either. In fact, I don’t think ANY production company is decent anymore, now that I’ve gotten my first taste of Shanying. Sigh. Shanying’s awesomeness has spoiled me. I probably won’t ever like another company’s drama anymore for anything more than mild entertainment factor.

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      I’m in love with Nirvana in Fire’s soundtrack and it’s expertly used here to create the right mood all the time. I sound like I’m exaggerating but seriously I can’t find fault with anything in this drama so far (up to ep 18). Apparently it’s like 54 eps or something so I can’t wait to see more 🙂

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        This is like one of the only dramas where I can sincerely say, I wish this was like 1000 eps! I swear I could watch this forever. With our awesome author herself writing the script and the amazing Shanying and cast, so far the drama hasn’t ever, even for a second gotten draggy. Not ever for a second have I ever lost interest!

        Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      I’ve loved Hu Ge since his early dramas, but I’ve always thought he was a great actor, but you guys are right. Lately he’s been taking more roles that have more nuanced characteristics, and I definitely think he should take more shanying productions. Even though his role in The Disguiser wasn’t as developed, and his character wasn’t as complex as Mei Chang Su, I think both dramas definitely show off his acting skills. I’ve been watching both at the same time, and his portrayal is so different and so completely thorough that you don’t see his other roles while you’re watching him. For ex, you know how some actresses like Liu Yi Fei and Tang Yan, or actors like Hawick, you see their acting and there expressions just remind you of their previous characters. Hu Ge in The Disguiser is so completely and utterly different from Hu Ge in Lang Ya Bang. He’s just so amazing. Hopefully he’ll be taking more dramas now. I know he’s got three/four(? if you count that soccer one) dramas lined up this season, but I hope he doesn’t go back on a hiatus afterwards. He hasn’t really done any shows that I like, that he shines in since…a really long time before now (he was great in Da Mo Yao, but I feel like he was limited by his character…I mean he didn’t really change or develop throughout the story, and he was sort of always mysterious that he felt like a supporting character only).

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      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        I agree. It’s like when an actor has two or three dramas being aired at the same time and it’s so easy to get their characters mixed up. Not Hu Ge this time. It’s pretty impressive.

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        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Lol. He’s so amazing, I couldn’t help but go back and look through some of his old dramas. I actually really hate The Myth, but I LOVE Hu Ge’s character in it! He’s carefree and playful like Li Xiao Yao, but he’s also super smart, good at surviving and while he’s kind and loyal and all that, he’s also got a selfish side that makes him more human too. Also, I can’t help but love Hu Ge as a historical soldier. I really think he’s awesome and cool as a commander (esp in period dramas). I love NiF, but I also can’t wait to see him go out in the battlefield in armor at the end of NiF.

  14. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    I’m in love with Nirvana in Fire as well, but I’m watching it at snail pace because of my lack of Mandarin (yes, I’ve been saying this in all my posts here LOL). I’m still at episode 8, and going back to ep 4 for the English sub.

    Like many, I’m very impressed with Hu Ge. He’s never been bad, but I used to think that his buddy Yuan Hong was a better and more versatile actor. Here he displays a vast range of emotions in a very, very subdued way. His eyes speak thousands of words with the flickers or the gaze, and the slight smile can be interpreted in a million ways.

    But this is also the kind of acting conveyed by the other actors. They are really bringing the characters to life, it feels as if I am among them instead of just watching them. Also, nobody is one-dimensionally good or evil. Everyone is human. Cinematography is top notch, every detail is well thought of, colors are muted and soothing. Kudos to the PD, the director of photography, and the screenwriter.

    Liu Tao is lovely, and I really like her portrayal of Princess Nihuang. But I’m currently having a major girlcrush to Zhang Lin Xin who plays Xia Dong. It’s funny, Lang Ya Bang is quite famous for the bromance side stories, but here I really enjoy the interaction between Nihuang and Xia Dong. Here you have two female characters who are strong and equal to their male counterparts. So far I haven’t seen a damsel in distress, all the women in this series are strong and smart in their own way.

    If I’m being nitpicky, I must say I don’t really dig the women’s styling (hair, jewelries) for I find them a little OTT. The men are spot on, though. Also, I can see from various forums that Fei Liu is a favorite character. I’m in the minority (if not the only one, LOL). I think he pouts too much. But maybe because Wu Lei is the youngest cast here, so his acting is not IMO as polished as the other actors.

    SPOILER, SPOILER: I know they change the romance arc from the novel, so that Nihuang and Mei Chang Su will have a romantic relationship. While I can accept the change, I think I’ll prefer the original story. How I wish that one day we’ll have the male and female leads in an ancient drama to be in a platonic relationship.

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  15. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    I just saw the last episode of The Disguiser, and I …don’t understand the ending. Is it over? That’s it? Is this continuing some sort of recent trend for season 2? Or is it a really vague really open, really abrupt ending?!

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    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      You make me cry a bucket load of tears, and then that’s it???!!!

      Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      SPOILER ALERT! (Don’t read this if you have not watched the end of The Disguiser)

      According to the last scene where Ming Tai and Jinyun wen to find Mr. Zhang Yueyin at Dong Zhong Hutong 2, he introduced himself as Mr. Cui. This make a perfect match with the Mr. Cui profile in All Quiet in Peking(Bei Ping Wu Zhan Shi) which was aired last year(2014).

      BTW, I don’t think am gonna watch the drama All Quiet in Peking sometime soon since I have still been catching up Lang Ya Bang so far.

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        All Quiet in Peking is a different beast from The Disguiser. While they may share one character, AQiP is a full on war period film. It has humorous moments but it’s mostly heavy in tone and too serious for my liking. If you enjoy big explosions and gun fights, AQiP is great. But if you are like me, who prefers plotting, subterfuge and hand-to-hand combat, AQiP is a bit hard to watch.

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  16. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    I forgot what episode it’s in, but I ADORE that scene in The Disguiser where Hu Ge (Ming Tai) dancing with Song Yi (Yu Man Li) with the rifle resting casually over his shoulder. It’s impossible to describe, but there’s something so incredibly hot about his casually dancing with a gun over his shoulder. He’s carefree and happy, but he’s also so jaded that a gun is a natural necessary part of his life. He’s both boyish and badass at the same time. So awesome.

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  17. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    You ladies are unstoppable when it comes to singing praises?!! I guess I just have to skip sleep and watch some.

    Aww has little Leo Wu Lei outgrown Hu Ge gege?

    Nope! XD He can still pick ya up!

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      GUH OMG drowning in the CUTE!!! 🙂

      LOL lil Wu Lei looks pretty much the same in his features, just now that he’s gotten older it’s sharpened a bit 🙂

      I love these 2 together – they seem to have a great chemistry and it’s wonderful in the photos here and onscreen 🙂

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    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      And I will continue to sing this show’s praises because it’s ABSOLUTELY EXQUISITE IN EVERY WAY and so damn addictive like I can’t stop watching it even when I’m so tired (it’s THAT good)… it’s a good thing they air 2 eps everyday cuz otherwise it’ll drive the audience completely mad with withdrawal…

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    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      Awww I didn’t know Leo played Liu Lang in Shao Nian Yang Jia Jiang. So cute!

      @shimokuren MTE! For once I’m actually glad that it’s only 2 episodes a day. I wouldn’t be able to get anything done if it was more than that.

      Reply ↓

  18. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Is it just me or is this drama getting better and better as it progresses?

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    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      LOL nah it’s not you – it really does get better the more it goes along! From the first episode I was hooked and so far EVERY episode is awesome. It’s so rare to see in a drama because even for good dramas there are bound to be some episodes that aren’t so good, but Nirvana in Fire is ON POINT EVERY episode! It’s testament to how good a production this is. Shanying did a great job in choosing its team: cast, directors, scriptwriters, cinetographers, composers, etc.

      It’s a great move to get the original author to also be the sole scriptwriter (so that she won’t be pressured by other people). Any deviations from the novel (which are very minimal from what I’ve seen so far) are actually changes that I LIKE (most notable the thing with Ni Duo – EXCELLENT change, I must say!).

      Everyone in the cast can act and there’s the perfect balance between artistry and entertainment. The pacing and tension are spot on and the music, cinematography, mood – all work together to bring out so much emotion. I’ve been hooked since the first ep and the addiction gets worse with every episode LOL.

      I LOVE the original novel but Goddamn, I’m loving the drama version even more! The drama is a beautifully and lovingly crafted masterpiece that not only does justice to the novel, but actually fleshes out the novel even more. Watching the drama made me go back to reread the novel because it’s everything I wanted to see in a drama adaptation and made me love the story even more.

      Haha I can’t sing enough praises for this masterpiece. I expected it to be awesome and it really did not disappoint. I’ve been most anxious to see this ever since I first heard it was being filmed. There were 4 dramas I was looking forward to most this year: Lost Tomb, Hua Qiangu, Nirvana in Fire, Chang Ge Xing.

      Nirvana in Fire was my most anticipated because it had the best story and characters and is my fave genre. Extra bonus for the fact that the original author is also the scriptwriter. The cast is also a fave (because I’ve been a Hu Ge fan ever since Chinese Paladin and I REALLY missed seeing him grace my screen). Also I have faith in Shanying because it’s got a good reputation as a production company that is dedicated to quality productions.

      After the disappointment of Lost Tomb (a Goddamn disastrous mess all around with Yang Yang being the only saving grace) and Hua Qiangu (the cast is great but the script is effing terrible, the production looks cheap, the CGI fights are awful), I lost all faith in Cdramas (with all the continuous terrible productions that have awful scripts, cliched characters, zero logic … terrible productions that piss me off rather than entertain me). But Nirvana in Fire has successfully restored my faith in Cdramaland and it’s like a breath of fresh air after being a stinkroom for so long 🙂

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      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        I’m really glad Shanying invited Hai Yan to do the scriptwriter. It’s honestly something that production companies should consider doing. I feel like it’s already a privilege for an author to sell the copyrights to a production company, so the least they could do is invite the author to be the scriptwriter. No sane author would want to ruin his/her own work onscreen! But then we all know money and sponsors play a factor so it’s wishful thinking on my part.

        Yes, the cast is excellent. Major props to the casting director. I know some people had doubts about Wang Kai playing Prince Jing but I think his acting speaks for itself and has proven those skeptics wrong. As for the others, I think they have done their characters justice, especially Liu Yijun who plays Xie Yu. He is exactly the way I had envisioned the character with the right amount of manipulation and guts.

        Isn’t the novel just amazing? I usually don’t read this genre but I was pulled in from the beginning of the story. The drama did the same to me, too. I haven’t stopped watching and praising it since episode 1.

        I agree that Cdramaland has been in limbo this year. So far I can only count four dramas that I watched this year that are considered decent: Grow Up, Battle of Changsha (I only watched it this year so I’m counting it haha), The Disguiser (still watching but it’s great) and Nirvana in Fire. Notice that three out of the four productions are from Shanying, my preferred production company from now on. Count this month’s Love Me If You Dare then I would have a collection. Lol.

        I know Shanying is now filming Ode to Joy so I’ll be looking forward to that. Never watched their modern series—have they even done one?—but with such an impressive list of great productions under their belt, I wouldn’t expect anything less from them.

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        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          That’s why Shanying has a good reputation for being respectful to original novels and original authors. It’s this respect that makes their productions so good. Nirvana in Fire is amazing in so many aspects: novel, script, cast, direction, choreography, cinematography, music … I can’t think of anything to criticize! Hai Yan is an amazing author and she’s made the story even better with the way she wrote the script. Kudos to the amazing cast (this includes everyone like supporting cast, etc., and not just the main leads) for their wonderful acting and making the script and characters even more dramatic! 🙂

          I’ve never seen Wang Kai before but he’s incredible here as Prince Jing. Hu Ge has always been charismatic and a great actor so when these two are together their epic acting sizzles! Even the supporting characters like General Meng, Consort Jing, all the Jiangzuo Alliance people, little Fei Liu, Duke Yan (this guy is SUCH a badass and I smile every time he graces my screen :)), etc. – they’re all awesome. The bad guys like Xie Yu, Prince Yu, etc. are so evil and makes the conflicts even more entertaining to watch.

          The cinematography and choreography is so artistic and such a pleasure to watch. The direction is excellent because they keep the pace and tension just right and every episode is riveting. LOL I’ve been following the eps and story closely so while we’ve had lots of great stuff so far, the REALLY good stuff is about to start! TBH Nirvana in Fire is such a strong story with complex characters that it’s awesome from beginning to end, but the climax is even better cuz that’s when all the juicy stuff comes out hehehe 🙂

          LOL the funny thing is, I already know what’s gonna happen cuz of the novel and episode summaries, but it actually makes me even more anxious to see the drama because I wanna see how it plays out onscreen! I swear 2 eps a day aren’t enough!!!

          Oh and I really hope the OST for this comes out soon cuz the music is amazing!!! 🙂

          Hahaha Hu Ge and Wang Kai have awesome chemistry – probably from all their joint projects playing brothers! Every scene with Mei Changsu and Prince Jing together are precious! The epic bromance is EVERYWHERE! 🙂 I can’t wait to see Prince Jing find out the truth! It was a great moment in the novel and I can’t wait to see what the drama version will be like.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          LOL we’re gonna have to wait a while for the truth to come out cuz it doesn’t come out till like ep 50-54 or something!

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          LOL even rereading the novel isn’t enough to tide me over when waiting for the episodes. This drama is more addictive than heroin

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          I have to agree with both of you guys about the awesomeness of NiF and Shanying (guys is it Shanying or Shandong? I’m so confused and my chinese is a little spotty on the reading side). Too lazy to type a commentary because it’s so amazing I’ll just go one forever. Plus it’s like impossible to describe everything that makes it so good. From the acting, the directing, the scripting, the music, the pace (the pace is amazing…attributed to the directing and script. Because the pace of the plot is fast and moves along, but the pacing of the shots and how events play it is calm and never hurried. You get the sense that the universe revolves around Hu Ge/Mei Chang Su, and even when everyone else is panicking, he’s always in control.) It’s just fucking amazing. Lol yeah, 2 eps is definitely not enough at all (even though by all means it’s already broadcasting at a really fast rate). I watch the new eps at noon – 1 (the uncut version) everyday, then rewatch some parts, then watch all the teasers for tomorrow multiple times, then rewatch the long trailer to compare what scenes I know have happened, and what might happen later. It’s so amazing. This is literally the only drama I’ve followed this vigorously for so long. It’s worth every second. I’m already starting to feel so sad, because even though I want to marathon and watch all the following episodes, I also don’t want this to ever end, and it’s already nearing the end at 38 eps out of 55. So depressing.

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        guys, i wish there’s LIKE bottom then i like your comments million times, haha.. totally agree! 😀

        im just so into this NIF. haha

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        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Hi Yui! Come join us on the discussion. 😀

          At first when I saw the number of episodes I was worried that it would drag. So far I’ve finished 34 and it’s still paced just right. We’re nearing the climax and it keeps getting better and better. I can’t wait for that moment when the truth is revealed.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          this is the first time, i watch a drama even without engsub. now im on ep 30 and ep 14 for engsub. With my very poor Chinese, i try hard to understand the story, plot and conversation, lols.

          but, im wondering about the girl who always beside Prince Yu. Who is she actually?

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          @Yui: that’s Qin Banruo, she’s Prince Yu’s strategist (though how far their relationship goes is up to anyone’s interpretation. She massages him sometimes!)

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          “She massages him sometimes!” LMAO. seriously, i laughed so hard here in the office. At first, i thought she was just his ‘toy’ in the palace, but then she gave him so many ideas.. such a smart girl. definitely a strategist.

          but i mean, she stays in the same ‘house’ with Su Zhe’s people, i forgot their names, 13 and the other girl. is she also someone Su Zhe sent to prince Yu or she’s purely a strategist of prince Yu? i watched the episode without engsub, which Su Zhe and her met in prince Yu’s house. she tried to talk to him, but he ignored her, haha.. poor her but im curious with her motive..

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          The girl who works with 13 is Gong Yu. She is one of Mei Changsu’s subordinates.

          Hmm, I think you might have mistaken the girls. Qin Banruo was the one whom Mei Changsu ignored at Prince Yu’s home. It wasn’t Gong Yu because she’s not allowed to leave her post without permission.

          The actress who plays Qin Banruo, whose real name is Wang Ou, actually joked about her characters in NIF and The Disguiser on her Weibo. She said that Wang Manchun (TD) was a nail salon owner (she checks her nails out a lot there) and in NIF she is a massage salon owner lol.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Polaris, why is it Gong Yu not allowed to leave her post without permission? She seems to be restricted in comparison to other Mei Changsu’s subordinates.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          No one outside of Mei Changsu’s gang knows where he gets his information from, especially about the corrupted officials. As Gong Yu works in the same business as Qin Banruo, she is able to obtain information for MCS and also keep an eye on QBR’s activities for MCS. If she is seen at his place too often, QBR would easily guess their relationship and then there would be complications that could threaten MCS’s plan.

          Another reason that is speculated in the book is that MCS knows GY has feelings for him. He doesn’t want her to waste time on him as he knows he’s sickly and his time is limited, so he tries to avoid seeing her as much as he can.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          so that Qin Banruo has nothing to do with Su Zhe? i got it. thank you polaris 🙂 but i think, another reason that GY has feeling for MCS is correct. she wants to see him so bad.

          i watched ep 31 last night, without sub, haha.. and Qinbanruo found out that MCS had a spy.. will that spy tell abput su zhe?? spoiler pleaseeeeeeeee, hahaha

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          SPOILERS AHEAD Yes, unfortunately Tong Lu ends up spilling the beans about MCS. Luckily he doesn’t know the most important details so MCS is still safe for now.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Thanks, Polaris! I guess he’s avoiding her not because his time is limited, but simply because he can’t reciprocate her feelings.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          thank you polaris. ah.. i hope when they know about MCS, he already make Prince Jing get the crown. Im super curious hehe

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        Quick question, who’s Ni Duo? What change was that? I haven’t read the book (because sadly there’s no translation and my chinese is limited in the reading aspect) yet.

        Reply ↓

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Nie Duo was the one that Mei Changsu sent to help Ni Huang when she first became general SPOILERS. In the book, Ni Huang fell in love with Nie Duo during that time. It’s also one of the reasons why Mei Changsu cannot be with Ni Huang since her heart has already another man. In the drama, they decided to drop Nie Duo and in place put Wei Zheng as the person who went to aid Ni Huang. They also dropped the romantic tie between the characters so that Ni Huang is solely Mei Changsu’s. Wei Zheng is also in the book and he is married in both the book and drama. END SPOILERS

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Forgot to add that Nie Duo is Nie Feng’s younger brother.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Nie Feng? Is that General Nie, Xia Dong’s late husband?

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Yes, that’s him.

  19. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    huaaa, you have this! im so happy reading every comment here. you know, im so into this drama, i mean.. nirvana in fire so.. i’ve been here and there to search anything bout them, hehe.. but the disguiser hiiikkzz,, no engsub yet.

    but huge acts alongside wang kai in the disguiser and NIF.. haha.. bromance everywhere??

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      Definitely so much amazing bromance! idk if you’ve seen the latest clip (i don’t know what’s it’s called, teaser?) for the next two eps, but in the teaser for ep 40 (if you can watch without subs NiF’s on youtube)…no spoilers. But in that teaser, Wang Kai’s acting is so emotional! Hu Ge and Wang Kai have been totally rocking the romance in Nirvana in Fire (actually, Hu Ge and basically everyone), but in the teaser, it’s the first time Prince Jing is visibly, shaken and crying in memory of his “dead” bro. I mean, he’s angry a lot, and bent on vengeance and injustice, but this is the first time we see him, not just sad, but crying. It’s amazing.

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        i watched many many ancient dramas, but the character that made me fall in love in the very first sight was Prince Jing (while Eddie Peng’s character in Sound of the desert, more like bcuz of novel). Wang Kai makes it so real.. like i could feel his hope, his feeling, his anger, his expression wrote well in every scene. haha, bias much, i know.. but besides Hu Ge, i really really really adore him. im not a fan of Hu Ge, he’s just not my type of fave actor, but i admire his acting in this drama.. way better than in Sound of the desert..

        ep 40?? do you have any link? i tried to find some new ep in youtube but got nothing 🙁 i just got the download link from dramacool. and for engsub from subscene. but i watched some episodes without engsub and i already watched until ep 31.
        why prince jing cried?? why?? 🙁

        Reply ↓

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          thank you 🙂

          so, until ep 39, he still didnt know that MCS is his bestie??? hehe, asking for spoiler. prince Jing once got mad at Su Zhe in ep 35/36 i forget, and made SZ went to his home.. what happened actualy? i jsut watched without knowing anything haha, i need to learn chinese again.. 😀

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Actually Prince Jing doesn’t find out about MCS’s real identity until like episode 50 (LOL). He suspects about it but he really doesn’t “know” until then … and his reaction upon the news is something I really wanna see onscreen hehehe 🙂

          Prince Jing is conflicted because MCS is everything he doesn’t like. He hates schemers with a passion because they caused the death of his beloved brother and bestie’s whole families. He doesn’t like MCS but MCS reminds him of Lin Shu (his bestie) in so many ways and as time goes on, he’s starting to like MCS too. LOL this sounds like the plot of a Kdrama romance 🙂 He got mad at MCS in ep 33-34 cuz of misunderstandings.

          MCS doesn’t want Jing to know who he really is because MCS himself hates who he’s become, but he has to do it anyway because of his plans to get Jing on the throne and to get justice for what happened to he and his family.

  20. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    *spoiler*

    So I just finished ep 42, and I was totally LOL-ing at the conversation between Jing Fei (Prince Jing’s mother) and MCS. Lol. The mom suspects MCS is Lin Shu, but isn’t sure so keeps subtly testing him, and Prince Jing’s just sitting there listening to them with a perplexed expression on his face. Lol it’s so cute…he’s totally not catching on, he just knows his mother’s being a little strange and his confused expression is cute and hilarious. And MCS himself. Haha. 40-some episodes and we basically never see him out of control. But here, he looks distinctly uncomfortable with her questioning. Gah. Hu Ge (and Wang Kai) acting is AMAZING! His change in expressions and eye-power (idk how to say it in English. lol) are so so so subtle, but you can totally tell what he’s expressing. He’s not acting. He basically is MCS/Lin Shu. His acting was exp. amazing when Wei Zhen is recounting to Prince Jing what happened at Mei Ling battle. As MCS listens at the side, he transitions from an indescribable sort of acceptance/memory, to sorrow and vengeance/bitterness at what happened, to sorrow and regret for Prince Jing to have to carry the burden of never seeing his bestie and him feeling guilt for what happened. And Hu Ge doesn’t say a word. He expresses this through eye-emotion and body language. It’s amazing and touching.

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    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      Oh I totally agree with you! I was watching that Mei Ling recount bit and I was so impressed with the awesome acting from everyone! Actually the acting by the cast throughout the whole series is phenomenal. SO MUCH SUBTLETY OMG! It’s exquisite! These guys really know their craft and seriously Nirvana in Fire is one of the most well-acted dramas I’ve seen in a very long time! Both the characters and the script are very complex and have many layers, and it really needs seriously acting chops to pull it off and show all the inner conflicts and emotions!

      Seriously I think this is Hu Ge’s finest work so far! He’s always been good but his MCS really shows his maturity as an actor and he’s improved so much in both acting and singing (again, he’s always had a nice voice but his vocal technique really shows in the ending theme song). MCS/Lin Shu is a difficult character to play but Hu Ge has totally made him alive – this character is amazing in the books but seeing Hu Ge’s portrayal make MCS even better 🙂

      This is the first time I’ve seen Wang Kai but I’m so impressed by his acting. With a character like Prince Jing, if an actor can’t show the emotions very well then it will become a very flat character. However, Wang Kai is so expressive and really brings Prince Jing to life.

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        I know right! That’s really all I can say, since your comment pretty much sums it up. It’s just an amazing, layered, complex, captivating production. So much thought went into this, it’s truly like everyone’s living their character. This is what a true palace-conflict show should be like. Less crazy-women-schemes that sound cruel for no purpose and just flat out unreasonable. Seriously. The plot is timed so well and so interesting; it keeps us on our toes without being completely unreasonable and not-understandable (that plan from the rescue of Wei Zheng to the defeat of Prince Yu and Xia Jiang…was GENIUS, and utterly logical…it doesn’t depend on a bunch of crazy variables and coincidences…just pure brain prowess). And none of the characters are purely malevolent for the sake of being evil. Every single antagonist is so human. Despite Xie Yu and Prince Yu and Xia Jiang being despicable, their motives are stil understandable and logical even if they’re selfish and greedy. There are so so many layers to each and every character…If all shows were like this, I won’t need to do anything but watch dramas every day. I wish Shanying (shanying or shandong?) would make more productions, esp with this cast.

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        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Julianne, have you watched Battle of Changsha? It’s another impressive Shanying production and highly recommended. I usually skip dramas set in WWII but this was so good.

          Also, I think you’ll be happy to know that Shanying often invites their past actors back. Wang Kai is one of them. Ode to Joy will be his 6th time in a Shanying production. If you watch enough of their dramas, you’ll find familiar faces as well. The actor who plays Li Gang in Nirvana in Fire is a recurring face as well. I read somewhere on weibo that the supporting actors in NIF are also part of the production crew. It’s amazing that they’re able to create such a beautiful drama while displaying their acting skills.

          Shanying has been making dramas since the 70s according to Baidu, but it’s only in recent years that they’ve started to hire younger actors like Hu Ge, Wang Kai and Wallace Huo to attract audiences in the younger generation. I have to say they have a hunch for picking the right actors.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          IKR? Isn’t it great to finally watch a drama with such a clever plot? Finally there’s a drama that treats its audience like the intelligent people they are! The ladies in this story are complex and badass. This is what a palace/political drama should be like! None of that dogblood melodrama / Mary Sue / damsel-in-distress / catfight / bitchfight / everyone falling for the same guy/girl bullshit that Cdrama keeps bombarding us with. I’ve been SO SICK of Cdrama lately with all the shitty productions one after another that I’ve lost all hope for it, but then something precious like Nirvana in Fire comes along and I feel revived (LOL)

          I love MCS’s plans cuz as you said, they’re just pure brain prowess and not just random/contrived bullshit. That whole thing with Wei Zheng was effing GENIUS, right down to how they manipulate the Emperor and bad guys into “losing”. Seriously, Nirvana in Fire is THE drama of the year, if not one of the contenders for drama of the decade! It deserves ALL THE AWARDS OMG 🙂

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          @ chasingpolaris: LOL most of the Jiangzuo Alliance guys (Li Gang, Zhen Ping, Tong Lu) are actually part of the directing team! Xia Jiang (the big baddie) himself is a veteran stage actor and is one of the executive directors (LOL).

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Hu Ge needs to make more productions with Shanying cuz their professionalism and work ethic is a great place for serious actors to hone their craft. Hu Ge has said many times that he won’t do idol dramas anymore and wants to be taken as a serious actor, so filming with Shanying is definitely a wise move for him career-wise (and wonderful for us audience cuz then we can see Hu Ge’s awesomeness grace our screens and awesome dramas with awesome casts and a production that RESPECTS the work and their audience :)).

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Guys, thanks for suggestion. That’s so interesting about Shanying. Looking forward to Ode of Joy and their other productions.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          ChasingPolaris, Is ChangSha really good? I’ve heard great things about it, but I’ve never been particularly into Wallace Huo’s acting.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          It’s really good. Before Changsha, I wasn’t even a fan of Wallace Huo. To me he was the vase-type. Pretty to look at but nothing else worth my time. But in Changsha, the rest of the amazing cast pushed him to go beyond his limit and that’s when I could finally see his acting potential. His character in there is also very well-written. Nothing I’ve ever seen from him before.

          The highlight of Changsha is actually the female lead’s brother-in-law. You cannot help but love his character even though he’s so cunning and unbelievably thick-skinned.

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        I’m like rewatching some of Wang Kai’s scenes as Prince Jing, and you’re totally right. Wang Kai’s such a standout this year, he’s so good! Prince Jing’s facial expression generally never changes, but Wang Kai manages to subtly portray a living human person and not a wood-block. With the minute change in start he can go from serious-face-but-contemplatively to seriously-pissed-face with basically the same expression, but with tiny details that totally convey exactly what Prince Jing’s feeling. Like he’ll have the same expression, but one moment he looks calm and stuff and the other he’ll look like he’s suspecting MCS. His acting’s really unexpectedly amazing.

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        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Bingo! I love how he can convey so much with only the most subtle of expressions! 🙂

          It’s what I love to see in acting 🙂

          It’s the same thing I see with most of the Nirvana cast, actually. They really got it right with the casting cuz everyone’s awesome in their roles! 🙂

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        Totally agree with you on the badass females and non-mary-sues. I think what’s amazing is that even if this is set in like BC, the females aren’t treated like unintelligent damsels. I know Shanying isn’t really known for female protagonists, but at least Shanying does a great job at making female characters who are human and just people. Like the king himself praises Ni Huang and thinks she capable and strong. He never disses his concubines/wives as stupid and acknowledges their craftiness and is even weary of his queen. MCS doesn’t really interact with Gong Yu, but he’s never thought she’s incompetent or needed excessive protecting. Prince Yu’s never disregarded Qin Ban Ruo’s plans and advice just because she’s female. Xia Dong is well respected, and even vicious power-hungry Xia Jiang knows Ling Long Princess and Xuan Ji Princess are formidable and sly and genius schemers. There are so many sexist, period dramas dealing with “a female’s struggle in this cruel cruel world”, that Nirvana is refreshingly unsexist…gender is NEVER a factor in anything! Shanying might not be amazing at crafting female protagonists (some people say), but they’re damn good and crafting human characters that’s for sure.

        Reply ↓

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Exactly. I love how females are all strong in their own right are well respected by the people around them. This is a credit to the writer herself who really does justice to her female characters. This author is awesome because ALL her characters, whether they are male, female, good guys, or villains, are all complex characters with many faces. It makes the story so much more interesting and with the talented cast, Nirvana really pulls off the complexity well 🙂

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Do you know if she’s written anything else? Or is planning on writing anything else?

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Nirvana in Fire is her only book so far. She does have a full-time job at a real estate company, though I’m not sure if she quit already since she’s also been writing scripts for Shanying. Both would take up so much time, I assume.

          She wrote the script for the upcoming “Love Me If You Dare” (When He Comes, Close Your Eyes) so I’m looking forward to see how she has adapted the novel.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Yeah. Same with the king. Best thing about the writer (and Shanying’s directing) is that every single one of her characters are smart. No one, not even the basic “underling” is stupid. A lot of the times with palace drama/period dramas, the kind is always like an idiot. A lot of times, you’re like he’s so blind, how did he even become king? In Nirvana, the kind might be stubborn, wrong, despicable, selfish, petty sometimes, he’s never an idiot. He well aware of most of the schemes his sons come up with (except MCS’s plans for Prince Jing), and if he doesn’t react, it’s because he’s biased, not because he’s an idiot and can’t see anything. This king is smart. And also human, like he’s not a characature. No matter how petty he can get, and no matter how selfish his bottom line is, he always has a bottom line, he’s not infinitely forgiving. Like he can allow for Prince Yu’s schemes until he intentionally harms citizens (if only because of his need for reputation). He can allow bribery and corruption until it severely affects the workings of the gov (Qing Guo Gong case). Like he’ll only turn a blind eye to the bros infighting to a certain extent. He’s a living thinking person, not just a mindless idiot there to fill in the king position.

  21. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    OH. MY. GOD! Has anyone else seen the teaser for ep 43!!!! *spoiler*
    Under pressure, MCS accidentally shows the same habit as Lin Shu, only this is a big one. He pulls out Prince Jing’s sword to point at the ground as he’s planning…only this is something I’m sure only Lin Shu would do! This commenter’s comment sums it up perfectly…

    景琰的眼神杀：就是你就是你怎么不是你你就是你就是我就知道是你。。。。。。酥胸：卧槽露馅了露馅了露馅了怎么办怎么办。。。。

    “Prince Jing’s killer stare: It’s you it’s you how is it you it’s you it’s you I know it’s you……MCS: I gave it away gave it away what do I do what do I do….”

    Lol my response: 然後蒙大統領：uh-oh 這下糟了。。。
    “And Commander Meng: uh-oh what now…”

    Somebody go watch that teaser! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8suZj4O_rY

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      LOL I saw that comment last night when I watched the teaser and I LOLed so much! I’d give it so many Likes if I could! 😀

      Reply ↓

  22. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    NIF is still amazing. I have nothing else to say except I am utterly amazed and enjoying every moment of the drama. It has everything that I love in a drama. Sure the romance might be minimal but I’m a sucker for subtlety.

    I’m still catching up with The Disguiser. I know a lot of people prefer Yu Man Li over Cheng Jin Yun for Ming Tai. Personally, now that I’m at episode 21, I have long jumped over to the Ming/Yun ship. Yu Man Li is a very attractive character but I can see why Ming Tai is head over heels in love with Jin Yun. In front of her, he can be himself despite their identities and their missions. Watching them interact is also very cute. What can I say? As much as I admire Yu Man Li’s badassery, I think Jin Yun is a better match for Ming Tai. He needs someone who keeps him grounded and isn’t afraid to say no to him.

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      I haven’t watched Disguiser yet cuz I’m too into Nirvana atm. HOLY SHIT Nirvana is EVERYTHING I wanna see in a drama and it’s SO DAMN GOOD I hope it gets like tons of awards because it’s amazing and exquisite and deserves every award!!!

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        I agree with you! They better win awards at the end of the year ceremonies. Can’t think of a category where an award shouldn’t be given to them.

        Reply ↓

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Yeah! I saw a new report comparing Legend of Zu and NiF, and while I love ZLY, I was like NOOO! They can’t even be compared! The acting in Nirvana and the whole production itself is so many millions of miles out of LegendZu’s league…it’s like comparing…idk something low-quality and something heavenly! I don’t think ANYTHING (except possibly Disguiser, except not really either) can come close to Nirvana’s level this year, maybe ever. I haven’t seen battle of ChangSha yet, but I can’t imagine it getting any better than this.

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      For me, I just like Yu Man Li. It’s not necessarily because I think they make a better couple, I just don’t like Jin Yun’s character as much. I think she’s much flatter than the others in characterization.

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      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        Yeah, it seems like a majority of the viewers think she’s a flat character. I’m definitely in the minority as I find her a very charming character but in a more subtle way compared to the rest.

        Yu Man Li’s characterization is more distinctive but I find her rather boring at the point where I am. She has all the signs of a lovesick woman right now and I kind of want to just fast forward all of her scenes. (I am so sick of watching her with those teary eyes.) She was so exciting at the beginning. So much fire.

        Oh well. At least I still have women like Wang Man Chun and Da Jie to watch. They have yet to disappoint me.

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        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Yeah! Da Jie’s my fav! I have a love-hate with Man Chun. I think she’s interesting and amazingly complex and human, and Wang Ou’s doing an INCREDIBLE job in that role, but at the same time, because she’s an antagonist who keeps messing things up for our dear brothers, I can’t help but hate her too.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          idk where you are, but when Min Lou finally tells Da Jie his true identity (because he needs her help), I love Da Jie’s reaction. She’s sad and angry, but not because of the lies, but because she’s sad that they kept the secret from her because they thought she would hinder them or be rash and impulsive. I love her. She’s like, “to you guys, am I really such a burden? Did you think I would stop you guys? Why didn’t you trust me to share your burdens with me?” Such a formidable woman.

  23. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    I just reached ep 28 — and is that the Game of Thrones score in the background? :))) Nice surprise, and quite funny!

    Reply ↓

  24. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Ep 43 is so amazing! We always see the calm, sad, regretful MCS, but in his conversation with Jing Fei (prince Jing’s mom), we get to see the desperate side of him. The one burning for revenge, who’s so close to his end goal. Hu Ge’s pretty damn amazing.

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      Don’t forget to put a spoilers warning. ^^;;

      I understand your excitement though. Hu Ge’s ability to convey a wide range of emotions is amazing.

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        IKR? Such a wonderfully talented and charismatic actor! I’ve loved Hu Ge since Chinese Paladin and he’s really grown a lot as an actor over the years! He’s getting better with age! Like fine wine! 😀

        Reply ↓

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          I loved him best as Liu Lang in The Young Warriors and to see him progress into Mei Chang Su is wonderful. If there’s any actor out there in the Mainland whom I can count on for being able to act well every single time, it would be Hu Ge.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Kudos to you chasingpolaris! 😀 I first liked him in Chinese Paladin, although tbh I didn’t really know anything about acting skill then. Even though most of it, he acted like a playful lighthearted person, he showed a lot emotional depth and growth as his character was burdened by more and more deaths. Then I saw him in Tian Wai Fei Xian and Legend of the Condor Heroes, which I loved, but didn’t really show his acting skill. The Young Warriors though…that was epic, and I cried so hard. That’s definitely the first time I thought, wow he’s a great actor.

          You’re right. He’s one of those actors that will act well every single time. Even when I don’t like his character, it’s never because of his acting. Like, Hu Ge was overshadowed in Disguiser, but his acting was spot on. His character may be more immature, but when the scene calls for it, he showed a lot of depth.
          *spoiler*
          In the end when Ming Lou was revealing the details of there manipulation from the beginning of his spy journey…wow. When Ming Tai was crying and bawling for the loss of his comrades and teacher, that emotion and anguish. I feel like it showed that he wasn’t any less of an actor at all than Jin Dong and Wang Kai, even if people felt like Jin Dong and Wang Kai stole the show. According to an interview, Hu Ge said according to the original novel, his character was supposed to be even more childish, but he said he was uncomfortable playing a childish high schooler, so they even matured his character more.

  25. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Omg I’m almost DYING! Ep 43 is so good. Prince Jing is so close to the truth and the battle is finally starting! MCS gets to show off his awesome battle strategies!

    Reply ↓

  26. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Ep 44 is SOOOO. INTENSE! It’s unbelievable… So amazing…so close to the end.

    Reply ↓

  27. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    OMYGOD! The teaser for ep 45! I won’t spoil it, but you book-readers out there! Did you guys see that coming?! Shimokuren…have you seen it yet?! It’s *** ****! Like what?! The scene was so freaking touching and it made me cry AGAIN!
    On the other hand, I’m still waiting for Lin Shu to get back on the battlefield. All the summaries and synopsis say that in the end he’ll eat some miracle pill and lead an army again or something…Totally waiting for Hu Ge/Lin Shu’s awesome transformation…

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      OMG. IT’S FINALLY HERE! I couldn’t hold my tears in. This was one of my favorite parts from the book and all I could think of was Xia Dong and how this would end all of her misery after all these years.

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        IKR! It was so emotional. especially the scene where he was hugging the life out of Lin Shu. Like he couldn’t speak coherently anymore, but you could totally feel his anguish and relief at knowing physically that his Lin Shu was still alive. He may seem regressed and slow and less-than-all-there. But once Lin Shu reveals himself, he’s himself. He’s still N** **** the emotional long-lost brother they’ve been mourning. Despite his appearance, he was so so raw and human in that moment when he’s weeping. God the actors…so amazing!!!

        btw do you know if Lin Shu gets to get back on the battlefield again?

        Reply ↓

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          OMG that scene was EFFING EPIC! Holy shit! So much emotional outpouring OMG! AWESOME EPIC acting from everyone in this scene!

          LOL N** F*** comes back for 10 minutes and MCS is already revealing his identity to him, while Prince Jing has to struggle for 50 eps before he get the truth HAHAHA. No wonder Jing feels like crap when he finds out – his bestie loves everyone else more than him! XD

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          SPOILERS FROM THE NOVEL:

          Lin Shu/MCS does get back on the battlefield again (at the end of the story after the Chiyan army and Prince Qi get their names cleared), but as more of a strategist since he can’t fight anymore cuz of his ill health. Other countries try to invade Liang country but Prince Jing is already the crowned prince, so while he wants to go out there to lead troops himself, all the officials beg him not to go cuz if anything happens to him then they have no Emperor.

          MCS was gonna go relax and take a well deserved break, but to protect the Liang country he volunteers to go to the frontlines again because the invaders used to be defended against by the Chiyan army, and as the last member of the Lin family, MCS sees it as his duty to defend Liang country from the northern invaders. He knows that if he goes he won’t live to come back, but if he can’t live as Lin Shu, then he can choose to die as Lin Shu (what an epic badass).

          MCS/Lin Shu successfully defended Liang against invaders and so Jing eventually becomes Emperor and peace reigns across the land. But while everyone is happy and at peace, Jing does not forget those who sacrificed themselves for the peace of Liang country, and in a quiet room in the palace he keeps a book of names of all who fell in battle (from lowest rank to highest rank) that he wrote down by hand. But whenever he comes to the last name in the book (3 guesses whose it is), he drops his brush and cries inconsolably upon his desk, so upset that not even his wife, etc. can console him…

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          The novel ending makes many people cry, so I think the drama ending is quite different. According to episode summaries, they leave it as an open ending so that MCS may or may not be dead… 🙂

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Nooo poor Prince Jing!!!!! Poor friends of Lin Shu…like Commander Meng, Ni Huang, the bros of Jiang Zuo Meng, Fai Liu, Lin Cheng…everyone!!! T.T Idk though whether the drama ending will be any less cruel. I just saw the 60 minute teaser/trailer that BeiJing TV posted for 10/15, and it basically was full of spoilers…and even with the open ending, the scenes near the end are So. So. Cruel and emotional!.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          *spoiler*
          In the uber teaser, Lin Cheng doesn’t want him to go (I’m assuming to the battle field, they don’t say), and MCS’s like “you always so you don’t know Lin Shu, but I believe after you know Lin Shu, you won’t be disappointed”
          The translation doesn’t sound as touching, but that one phrase was so so emotional!
          In ep 45, Jing Yan says, I don’t know why I thought MCS was Lin Shu, they’re so different. But I think as the end approaches, as MCS allows himself to let down his guard and peel off his mask, we see more and more of Lin Shu’s fiery uncontainable personality.

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        Hell yeah that was one epic emotional reunion! So looking forward to it!!! 🙂

        Reply ↓

  28. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    AHHHH! the teaser for ep 46 is even worse!!!! To sum it up, here’s my fav comment:

    景琰你是有耳屎听不清吗？！！！ 给了你这么多次机会了！！
    绝对是聋，不然就是傻
    是傻！是傻！水牛！！看弹幕啊！！！！！

    “Jing Yan are you deaf and can’t hear?! You’ve been given so many chances!!!”
    “Must be deaf, that or dumb (*but in a more fond tone…like “slow”*)”
    “He’s dumb (a nicer word)! He’s dumb! Water Bull!! (*idk how to translate the last phrase…someone help me out*)”

    SO EXCITED for tomorrow’s episodes!

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      LOL Prince Jing has moments of greatness with his intellect yet when it comes to MCS his intellect decides to take a hike 🙂

      Can’t blame him though, cuz it’s all the will of the scriptwriter hahahaha

      Reply ↓

  29. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    lol! My only comment for the teaser of ep 46:
    靖王！！！拜託，他的話我看甄平都聽清了！你傻啊！

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      LOL IKR? MCS said it pretty clearly hahaha

      Reply ↓

  30. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    SPOILERS

    Ni Huang returns in ep 44 and saves the day. I love that scene where she’s on the horse and she’s got this confident smile on her face. Perfect.

    Also, Duke Yan’s worried face as he sees his son fighting off the enemies. Kudos to Yu Jin!

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      My fav part of ep 44…basically the entire battle part. The plan was pretty genius, and MCS did his best to put off direct confrontation with the whole front-line ambush and forest trap. And the directing was so amazing during the siege part. Like they would alternate between reg-speed and slow-mo, but the slow motion wasn’t overboard at all, and the music fit perfectly! And the scene wasn’t rushed at all. Like they didn’t just cut to the end of the battle, and cut out the scenes where there was waiting. I feel like watching the guarding soldiers standing waiting and waiting built up so much suspense. The waiting of the soldiers, the waiting and stillness in the chamber inside the palace, it makes you want to know what happens like mad, but you don’t ever feel like you want to fastforward either. Like you’re 100% inside the scene, and you’re waiting and fighting with them. They spent a lot of scenes on the battle and waiting, and while other crews might cut that out cuz they think it’s repetitive, Shanying did in a way that made it so tense and suspenseful; the switching between the battle outside to the frozen-waiting inside…so amazing. That and the actors were so skilled, they didn’t look like they were just standing there. You could practically feel the emotions yourself.
      btw, thank god Zhen Ping didn’t die. When he got shot by the arrow, I was like…NOOOO! and then whew! Same with Yu Jin and Gong Yu. I almost thought they were going to die…and then Fei Liu saved the day after standing there watching the fighting for like 5 minutes. Lol

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        Holy shit Ep 43-44 totally takes the cake in awesomeness! So many badasses in these episodes! So much epic acting from everyone! LOL MCS pretty much outed himself as Lin Shu so if Prince Jing doesn’t realize it I really worry for his intellect. Thing is, Jing’s proven himself pretty smart and he’s always suspected MCS so I can’t wait to see the revelation 🙂

        The battle scenes were frign awesome and Nihuang was SUCH A BADASS OMG!!! Actually there were so many badasses like Duke Yan, MCS, General Meng, Zhen Ping, Yujin, Gongyu, and Fei Liu…

        We have epic acting from Prince Yu and Consort Jing. MCS and Prince Jing and General Meng are awesome as always.

        I saw the teasers for the 45-46 and I know what’s coming so it’s really exciting! 😀

        Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        Oh yeah, the strategy and the battle sequences were bloody fantastic! It was impressive from beginning to end, from the strategic planning in the tents to the epic battles! I love the whole sword thing and secret road thing with Prince Jing (MCS pretty outed himself LOL) and good old General Meng to always makes us laugh 😀

        Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      I swear Duke Yan is SUCH an underrated badass!!! He’s my favorite out of the old guys LOL 🙂

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        If he were 10-20 years younger, he’d definitely be slaying the enemies with General Meng.

        Reply ↓

  31. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    First time I feel like Ni Huang and Lin Shu are a cute couple, and not just a tragic couple. Lol Ni Huang’s finally jealous (of Gong Yu no less). LOL people who’ve seen ep 45, when MCS was uncomfortably trying to explain Gong Yu’s presence, and Ni Huang’s just like. Ok, from now on, I’m responsible for your guards, and cooly walks away. Haha!

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      I loved that scene so much I watched it twice. It’s probably the only time we’ll see Ni Huang being jealous. And MCS being uncomfortable is just too hilarious. He had no idea that his explanations of “I didn’t know anything beforehand” or “She stood outside my tent as a guard” would fuel her jealousy further. LOL.

      Reply ↓

  32. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Ugh! this show is so cruel! From the start of ep 46, it’s a sob fest. From the beginning, watching Ni Huang cry…me cry tooo!!!

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      I can’t wait to see Prince Jing bawl his eyes out once he find out the truth … there was a spoilerific 1 hour preview on youtube and it showed a bit of his reaction after finding out the truth 🙂

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        IKR?! It’s so so so cathartic in a way. I love how even thought our dear bromantic CP was never meant to be, and even though we all know it probably won’t end to well for those two besties, they still gave a little bit of happiness. I love when Jing Yan finally gave Lin Shu that pearl, and he gives a smirk and is like “this is what you owed me” and Jing Yan sort of rolls his eyes.

        Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      HUAAAAAAA.. YOU GUYS ARE AMAZING!! i read every single spoiler here.. and teary eyes.. im so loving it. but i plan to comment it later but stop here to give a comment.

      why why why nihuang cried??? she felt jealous and…?? havent watched the unsub ep yet, cuz kinda busy on weekend and yesterday 🙁

      thank you everyone who gave so many spoilers.. huaaa.. so happy.

      ps : im so into Prince Jing too.. he’s one of the best actors!!!!!

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        She was crying because she’s sad that her dear Lin Shu suffered so much and she can’t share that burden with him.

        Reply ↓

  33. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    I’ve been watching Nirvana on youtube, but I’m tempted to just spend a few hours downloading all the episodes here just so I can keep them FOREVA!

    Reply ↓

  34. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    So I watched that one hour trailer for NIF. Well, the last 15-20 minutes of it. Started tearing up right away. 淚點好低。。。

    It’s going to be really hard to say goodbye to this drama. I’m going to give historical dramas a rest after this as I don’t think anything could be better than what we’ve been shown here. The acting, the cinematography, the story…it makes all the other ones that I’ve watched seem super trashy.

    Hu Ge better win best actor for this. He’s just too good!

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      I just know I’m gonna rewatch this from the beginning as soon as we finish. Got to keep the amazing complicated feelings fresh forever! Nothing like it in the entertainment world! I hope Hai Yan, Shanying, Hu Ge, Wang Kai, and other cast work together again and again! Such an amazing team.

      Reply ↓

  35. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    AHHHHH! Have you guys seen ep 47? No spoilers, but the reunion is soooooo emotional! I totally teared up right away. Even Li Gang was tearing up!

    Reply ↓

  36. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    OMG tomorrow’s episodes!!! AHHHH! SO. MANY. FEELS! I can’t. So close. So close!

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      The end is almost here. I can already feel the water works coming.

      Reply ↓

  37. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    *spoiler******
    Rewatching ep 45, and I love the part where MCS’s health is acting up and Fai Liu goes outside to yell for the water bull. That name means so much. All through the series, Lin Shu’s been behind the scenes, supporting Prince Jing, sacrificing for his bestie, being there for him all without him knowing. This time, the one time Lin Shu needs the help and support of his bestie, the beloved water bull doesn’t disappoint and comes to the rescue. So touching/emotional! And when Lin Shu’s at his weakest, with all guards down, the besties share an emotional, wordless heart-to-heart (except our dear, slow Prince Jing didn’t HEAR a word he said…at least his still felt touched, and knew deep down that MCS is his friend, his dearest brother).

    Really can’t wait for tomorrow’s ep 48/49! I know with the teaser of Xia Jiang spilling the beans, Prince Jing will definitely, finally know!!!!

    Also, the scene in 46/47 when the pain and endurance and suffering Lin Shu suffered with the poison was finally revealed…wow that was so so so emotional! Lin Cheng’s pointed remarks, Ni Huang and Meng commander’s slow realization, Nie Feng’s sad, indiscernible grunts of shared pain when Lin Shu walked away. It’s well acted! All the emotions! You could feel everyone’s pain and empathy for Lin Shu and Nie Feng, for having endured so much just to survive. MCS’s mask is truly a man with a mission. He became Lin Shu for the sole purpose of clearing the names of 70,000 soldiers. I survived and suffered and endured to return to complete this one goal. Once it’s over MCS will no longer exist…whether Lin Shu will exist…well. Who knows, since the drama is rumored to be an open-ending. Imagine the iron-will and spirit needed to willing endure the pains of the poison, the pains of removing the poison…knowing that it’ll be the worst, most painful choice, but to still choose because of his sense of duty and responsibility and loyalty. An amazing person.

    I also really love Lin Cheng (not only cuz Jin Dong’s amazing…plus MCS and Lin Cheng’s interactions are so adorbs!). He acts playful and uncaring and blasé, but so many of his comments are so pointed. He might say lighthearted words, but you can tell from his eyes that he’s pissed at Lin Shu for forcing him to help him ruin his own body, pissed because Lin Shu’s not taking care of himself. How can you ask your friend to help quicken your death? The unspoken guilt and gratitude and care and worry and belief in each other…between them. Such strong bonds between the cast members and between the characters. I love that Lin Cheng knows him as both Lin Shu and MCS. We learn that their dads were friends and so Lin Cheng knows all sides of Lin Shu. That makes that phrase from the 60 minute preview all the more poignant. “You say you don’t know Lin Shu, but I believe once you don know him, you won’t be disappointed.” So much more powerful because we know that Lin Cheng does know Lin Shu; LC doesn’t want his friend to go off and essentially embrace certain death, but at the same time knows that it’s his personality, that he can’t ever NOT be Lin Shu.

    I can never run out of praise for this show… T.T I don’t want it to end! In fact, despite loving Hu Ge, I don’t know if I can bear to watch his Good Times. Good Times seems to lighthearted after Nirvana. I couldn’t possibly watch Hu Ge in a rom-com while still so attached to Lin Shu gege. While still drowning in the ocean of feels from Nirvana! And Hu Ge without Wang Kai, without Jin Dong, without Chen Long?! All his bros?! After watching a season of these bros together (well not Chen Long, but Hu Ge and Chen Long have worked together so much, their bromantic-chemistry is undeniable. Plus Meng Commander is too cute for words sometimes), I can’t tear myself away from their awesomeness together!

    Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        and that Lin Shu became MCS, not “he became Lin Shu”. Lol when you’ve got a lot to say, you say things wrong. Sigh. Need to learn proofreading skills.

        Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        waaaahh… bromance in this NIF is really something. they were cute, tough, rough sometimes.. definitely a drama that i can re-watch again and again later.. now i watch twice, first without engsub, then when the sub is ready, i watch it again.. hehe

        thank you for the spoiler. ep 46 please if you dont mind and you have time, 😀 cuz now im watching ep 45 and reading your recap spoiler to help me understand here and there 😀

        Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      Also, MCS lying to Ni Huang about how much time he has left, him asking Xia Dong to take care of her when he’s gone. I pretty much bawled my eyes out during 47/48.

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  38. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    OHMYGOD! Right from the very first second of ep 49, my heart is pounding like crazy. SO. EFFING. INTENSE!

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    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      Such a terrifying episode from start to finish! The pace does not let up at all!

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        Ahhh and the end of 49! Prince Jing seems to be in shock…not processing.

        Reply ↓

  39. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    As much as I’m loving this drama (i’ve been waiting for it for so long! having read the book when Hu Ge first recommended the novel in 2012 way before he was cast) I do feel that despite Shanying’s AMAZING dedication and determination to be true to the novel and to create a wonderful adaptation, there are some parts that are lacking – in the sense that they could have milked certain aspects to induce a more emotional effect? For example I think that the characterisation of Lin Shu is pretty weak – he only appears in very few flashbacks and the scene at Mei Ling has been repeatedly shown many times, yet these flashbacks all serve to emphasise the plot/his backstory with Jingwang and Nihuang and don’t really show just how lively or how wonderful he was as a teenager?

    While I do adore how the drama is able to effectively paint many characters just based on dialogue between characters – for example how Yanhouye talks about Linshu with a tinge of regret at how its so 可惜, or how everyone talks about Qiwang with reverence/hatred laced with begrudging respect (depending on whose side you are on haha) – I do think it would have been more impactful if they’d shown more flashbacks of Lin Shu to characterise him more, to show just how 意气风发 he was to further juxtapose against Mei Chang Su’s 隐忍 and subdued character and to really hit home how much Mei Chang Su had to change to get here today.

    Basically I think ShanYing could be more 煽情 in certain aspects hahaha maybe its cos its a predominantly male production team? (i’m not sure also but judging from the various directors cast in the show) In this aspect, while I don’t really like recent Tangren projects, Tangren is quite good at effectively elevating certain plot points to create a very emotional impact on the audience. (Although it’s not like I haven’t shed enough tears over this whole book/drama!)

    Haha, was prompted to comment this upon seeing a comment above talking about Yang Liu Lang, given how many fanvids of LYB before the drama came out cast Hu Ge’s Yang Liu Lang as Lin Shu; imagining Lin Shu to be just like Yang Liu Lang makes me super emotional as Hu Ge’s own experiences somewhat coincide with Mei Chang Su’s. ;_;

    Haha i’m not sure if I’m being incoherent or if i’m making any sense 😛 But this is truly one of the best dramas I’ve ever have the fortune of watching! :’) ahhh

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    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      I think that would be a question for the author as well. Perhaps she did include flashbacks in the script but they were cut out for some reason. (Just like they supposedly filmed MCS’s reunion with FoYa but it never appeared in the broadcast. I am kind of iffy about that but the rest of the drama is so wonderful that I’ll let it slide.) I can see why maybe a few more flashback scenes would significantly ramp up the audience’s emotions and help explain why there are so many people still missing him. This would be particularly helpful for those haven’t read the book.

      On the other hand though, I’m on the fence about this because the lack of such scenes means we have to rely heavily on the other characters to show us what kind of character Lin Shu was. I think almost every major character drops a hint or two about their own encounters with Lin Shu and how they feel about him. It really drives the cast to do their parts well to help create a profile for Lin Shu. I would list out most of the clues that I’ve picked up from them but that would be another big wall of text lol. That’s why I’m kind of neutral about the flashbacks—they would help but I feel like so far what we’ve been shown is sufficient.

      My Shanying experience is only limited to Battle of Changsha, NiF and The Disguiser but I don’t think 煽情 would go very well with their productions. At least in Battle of Changsha, you’d think it would be 煽情 because it’s a war drama and they’d add all these crying and shouting scenes over deaths to pull the audience in even more. Yet all of the crying and shouting very very toned down to the point where they actually mute the shouting/screaming. There’s no need for it because we all know what it sounds like and why the person is doing it, so not only our ears are spared from it but the emotional impact is even stronger than if it hadn’t been muted. We’re able to focus on the actor’s expression (and this is why I love Shanying and their casting—they never disappoint!). In all, Shanying really trust that their audience will be able to feel without spoon-feeding them too much.

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  40. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    SPOILERS

    AHHH! That one scene in 50, where MCS and Lin Cheng are talking about Yu Wang and Hua Zhu. So incredible. We get to see both how MCS’s genius mind works to come up with answers. Man, his brain moves in leaps and bounds. Also we see more of their awesome bromance and friendship. They’re definitely partners-in-crime. MCS only needs to say he suddenly thought of Prince Yu, and immediately Lin Cheng connects to Yu Wang and Hua Zhu have a relationship. Then they arrive at the conclusion that Xuan Ji must have has a son (close enough). Two genius minds working at light-speed in tandem. awesome. Plus we get to see a much more playful, naughtier MCS, which is like the core of his Lin Shu personality shining through. Think, man, Lin Shu must have been so special (true to his name Lin “Shu”, the Shu in “te shu”, special). A genius and a kungfu-battle strategy prodigy. What Lin Shu could have become. Makes Yan Hou Ye (idk, Marquee? Duke? Yan)’s words so much more true, when he said “regretful/such a waste” that Lin Shu was killed at such a young age.

    Lin Shu should have been, both a genius and a prodigy, cunning but arrogant and carefree and a loyal, empathetic, straightforward kid at heart. Instead Lin Shu was forced out of duty, responsibility, brotherhood, loyalty to hide parts of himself. the happy him, the carefree him, the arrogant straightforward no bullshit him. He had to hide that part of him and instead force himself to be a man of few, careful words, to hide his intentions and maintain neutral to the likes of Prince Yu despite hating them to the core. He hides himself and only allow those parts to show around his fellow bros of Jiang Zuo Meng, around commander Meng, around Lin Cheng and Fei Liu. He has to hide from Jing Yan, and hide from Ni Huang even. Because even though Ni Huang knows the truth, Lin Shu doesn’t allow himself to be anything other than strong, serious, solemn. While he shares his pains with her, he still keeps a lot from her in consideration of her feelings.

    So sad and depressing, yet I feel like MCS suits him. He’s as much MCS as he is Lin Shu.

    I think that why his words to Lin Cheng in the 60 min preview hit me so hard every time I hear them. “You say you don’t know Lin Shu, but I believe once you don’t know him, you won’t be disappointed.” It’s not that Lin Cheng doesn’t know Lin Shu. But since Lin Shu’s dad became friends with Lin Cheng’s dad, Lin Shu’s dad was always, to them, Mei Shi Nan, and thus Lin Cheng only acknowledges Lin Shu as MCS. I’m sure the Lin Shu (MCS) that Lin Cheng interacts with is a much different part of him than the one Jing Yan knows. In the end, MCS is Lin Shu, but Lin Cheng has always been unwilling to acknowledge that. Whether it is out of worry, denial, idk.

    Bookreaders, please tell me more about Lin Cheng and MCS’s relationship. This is just what I guess from the clues in the drama.

    Actually I really agree with ChasingPolaris about the flashback Lin Shu characterization. I’ve never read the books, but I feel like the character profile compiled from the clues other people give really creates Lin Shu as a 3D character. I feel like I know him, despite there only being like 5 different flashbacks. Whether it’s the way Wei Zheng and Nie Feng act around him, the comments Duke Yan wistfully drops, the indignant attitude and fondness and sense of loss that Jing Yan speaks of him with, the whiney (in a cute way) comments Yan Yu Jin drops, how granny empress adored him. The almost-fear and respect Xia Jiang and Xie Yu speak his name. I’ve always thought it’s the relationships that define (in part) a person. And through these people’s relationships with Lin Shu, I feel like we get a pretty complex and complete picture of him.

    Speaking of Yu Jin, I really love his relationship with the old Lin Shu. When he would sullenly talk about how Lin Shu thought he and the other kids were stupid. How JingRui’s favorite was still Lin Shu despite his temper and lack of patience. I loved that small poignant scene before the revolt battle at Jiu An Shan tents, when Yu Jin’s like how come you never teach me things, and MCS’s like, who first taught you the rules and etiquette of hunting, and Yu Jin says Lin Shu, and MCS just gives a small smile. Small things like that, I think, really round out Lin Shu, and also better meld Lin Shu and MCS as one person, and connects Lin Shu, MCS, and the other characters.

    Sorry this is another wall of text.

    I can’t help it. Nirvana is just too good. I always have good things to say.

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    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      I totally agree – I think using other people’s memories and reactions works better in terms of showing us what an incredible character Lin Shu was, instead of too many flashbacks or dictation. The fond ways that his elders like Consort Jing, Duke Yan, etc. speak of him, the awe and hero-worship from the younger people like Jingrui and Yujin whenever Lin Shu comes up, the love that Nihuang remembers him by, and the most epic bromantic soulmate love of all time reactions whenever Prince Jing thinks of Lin Shu – I think that says more about how special Lin Shu was than all the dictation ever could. The scriptwriter did a great job of SHOWING how awesome Lin Shu was, all with subtlety and using the great acting talent of the cast.

      MCS is a damn awesome character in his own right, and let’s face it, he and Lin Shu are always gonna be one and the same. It’s just that MCS is more inward focused now than when he was Lin Shu, and that is because of what happened to him and maturity. Even though MCS lost all his martial arts prowess, his most important trait remains – an incredibly talented mind and a good heart. MCS always feels like he’s become a bad person, but I don’t agree at all, because a truly bad person wouldn’t have such a strong conscience like MCS does. And let’s face it, when has he EVER done anything unforgivable? He’s always tried his best to achieve his goals without hurting any decent person (and he’s actually been quite merciful to others who may otherwise not deserve it…)

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        Yeah I said this in a newer comment (too lazy to rewrite it), but basically. yeah. MCS/Lin Shu is just so pure and his character and morality and just everything. He’s a hero in every sense of the word. I read the translation by Hoju on Fanatical of 一生一世美人骨, and Lin Shu reminds me of that one phrase. He’s got beautiful bones. Whether as MCS or as Lin Shu, his bones, his true character never changes. He’s unwavering righteous and patriotic. He spends his life living for others, for his country, for his father and army, for his people.

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  41. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Ep 53 preview: Holy fucking cow… So intense.

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  42. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    NOOOOOOOOOO! Ep 54 preview…fuck. This better be open-ended. So touching. Last day…I don’t think I can let go of this. T.T Excited for but also dreading tomorrow.

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      omo.. what happen??? aiyaya.. it kills me cuz i havent watched it yet 🙁 thank you for the recap 😀

      Reply ↓

  43. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Let’s brace ourselves for the final episodes. I’ve been crying in every episode so far since…I’ve lost track of when I started to cry, but in any case there will be tears when this is all over.

    Best drama of the year. Nothing I’ve watched so far this year can top it.

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      I’ve been saying it ever since I watched the first few eps of this – Nirvana in Fire is THE best drama of the year, if not one of the best of the decade. There are a few EPIC drama masterpieces I can think of, like Three Kingdoms, All Men Are Brothers – and Nirvana in Fire definitely ranks among them.

      Everything from the acting, script, directing, music, choreography, cinematography, costumes, sets, etc. – just exquisite. They’ve kept the audience emotionally addicted from beginning to end, and TBH I’ll be so relieved once this finishes cuz I’ve been keeping CRAZY hours just trying to catch this drama! Once it’s all done I can watch it properly (and repeatedly!) whenever I want! I can savor its greatness whenever I feel like it 🙂

      I’ve always loved Hu Ge but after this he’s like my 男神 LOL. This wonderful drama also introduced me to some other great actors/actresses because this is the strongest ensemble cast I’ve seen in a very long time. Everyone played their parts beautifully and there are so many complex and interesting characters to love (and hate).

      Nirvana in Fire is a seriously top-notch drama and everything I wanted to see in a period drama like this! Especially with the way the original novel is written, Shanying did a great job at bringing it to life (and dare I say, even better than the novel) – with the original author writing a great script, the epic cast members, and the dedicated work of all the production team. It’s obvious that everyone put in a lot of effort to make this as good as they can, and it really shows. I’m so glad that I got to see this, because I feel like all my time and effort in following a drama has paid off. Nothing pisses me off than faithfully following a drama and then being let down – what a damn waste of time and emotional energy.

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        Like frign Lost Tomb and Hua Qiangu – EPIC disappointments!!! The only saving grace of Lost Tomb was Yang Yang and the only saving grace of Hua Qiangu were the wonderful actors like Zhang Danfeng and Ma Ke (and others).

        Reply ↓

  44. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Ep 53…so so so cathartic! Lin Shu final gets to ask the King all his unanswered questions. He finally gets to accuse the king to his face, and let out all his sorrow and rage that he’s bottled up for 13 years.

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  45. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Can someone explain ep 53? The part where the king tells Lin Shu that his condition is that he could never allow Lin Shu to stand in front of the king, in front of the court, in front of the world alive. Does that mean her wants MCS to die? Or does he just want him to never re-assume the identity of Lin Shu?

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    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      I believe he just wants MCS to never appear as Lin Shu again. He can’t kill him since there’s Jiangzuo and also Prince Jing protecting him.

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      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        That’s what I thought. Just wanted to make sure though.

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  46. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Goooood! The final scene in ep 53 when the King kneels and finally shows remorse…when he says he taught Lin Shu how to ride a horse, helped him fly kites…SO EMOTIONAL! Nirvana is so amazing; even the King’s acting is spot on and superb. I can’t…I’m crying so hard now.

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  47. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    NOOOOO I can’t believe it just ended like that…

    ps That was NOT open ended

    I held strong all the way until the end…then when Jing Yan named the new army…I couldn’t help but bawl my eyes out.

    Man, my heart hurts.

    (guys, clarification. So in the beginning of ep 54 when Jing Yan covers Lin Shu’s plaque with a red cloth, that means he’s still alive? And then in the end when he takes off the red cloth again, he’s dead?)

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      The thing is, they originally filmed this ending with Lin Cheng and Fei Liu back in their Langya place and there’s a shadow of MCS in the background (which is actually just Lin Cheng’s reflections of MCS). However, they took it out when the broadcasted the drama because they didn’t want the audience to get the wrong idea of MCS being alive.

      They wanted to make very sure that the audience knows MCS died, period. *sigh*

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        I kind of wish they released the scene anyways. They show what happens afterwards in the palace, but I want to know happened to all of MCS’s bros, including Lin Cheng and Fei Liu.

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    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      Oh and I love how they played Prince Jing’s song with all the flashbacks and stuff at the end – that was awesome! 🙂

      His song actually sounds better in the drama than in the MV, probably because the drama version was clearer and had less background static 🙂

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    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      Yup. That was so not an open ending… I cried through that episode… Fine. Almost the whole drama, especially near the middle to end…

      So I scoured Weibo and on its official drama page, I read a post which said that it was SUPPOSED to be an open ending, but they changed it kinda last minute… To be in line with LS’s spirit…

      *Just ignore those weird sounds, its just me bawling my heart out…*

      And link to their official drama page: http://www.weibo.com/langyabangdrama?from=feed&loc=nickname#_rnd1444959538812

      Gonna re-watch the whole drama after work and through the weekend~~
      *at least twice….*

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  48. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    To be honest, Lin Shu’s ending is really really fitting. It stays true to his character. All his life, he’s loyal, morally upright in every way. He spends half his life bringing justice to light and proving that again and again. In the end, he goes out with a bang, patriotic and loyal to the bone, and a hero in every sense of the word. Got to repeat this, but that moment when Jing Yan names the new army in the end…it’s hard to describe, but that action completely embodies Lin Shu’s character.

    At the same time…我不甘心. It’s not fair. The ending is so right, but why?! Why can’t MCS/Lin Shu just relax and live for himself for once?! What happened to Lin Cheng, to Fei Liu, to Jiang Zuo Meng.

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    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      They went with novel ending so that’s actually pretty good in terms of the story. Going out as Lin Shu, defending the country till the very end, going out as a hero – that’s what MCS wanted the most so I guess for him it was the best ending he could hope for.

      That whole renaming the army bit? GODDAMN that was BEAUTIFUL. So fitting that the person who loves Lin Shu the most and was closest to the Lin family renames the restructured army “Chang Lin Army”, as a way to forever remember them and keep their loyal and brave spirit alive.

      TBH I want MCS to survive and have a happy life with Nihuang and Prince Jing (and Fei Liu, and all the Chiyan and Jiangzuo people) but alas, that’s probably because I love MCS so much and want him to have a happy ending.

      Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      They went with novel ending so that’s actually pretty good in terms of the story. Going out as Lin Shu, defending the country till the very end, going out as a hero – that’s what MCS wanted the most so I guess for him it was the best ending he could hope for.

      That whole renaming the army bit? GODDAMN that was BEAUTIFUL. So fitting that the person who loves Lin Shu the most and was closest to the Lin family renames the restructured army “Chang Lin Army”, as a way to forever remember them and keep their loyal and brave spirit alive.

      TBH I want MCS to survive and have a happy life with Nihuang and Prince Jing (and Fei Liu, and all the Chiyan and Jiangzuo people) but alas, that’s probably because I love MCS so much and want him to have a happy ending.

      BTW Kappy: my internet connection is acting weird so I apologize for any repeated comments. Please just delete the duplicated comments below and keep this first one 🙂

      Reply ↓

  49. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    捨不得啊！從第一集每天追追追，追到最後。現在又放不下啊！簡直是，不可能有比這好的習了！希望胡歌，王凱，等，全部劇組，山東，海宴，能繼續合作。現在只能從頭再看一遍咯。

    Best expressed in Chinese.

    Followed this drama from ep 1, everyday. Now I can only start again and rewatch it all.

    (and start close your eyes thing)

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      The whole cast + Shanying + Hai Yan need to collaborate again and make more dramas like this cuz Nirvana in Fire was a frign MASTERPIECE <3 <3 <3

      Reply ↓

  50. 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

    Welp. I basically just cried my way through the ending.

    That crying scene between Nihuang and MCS was the most heartbreaking. No words were said but those years and those looks. Ugh. My heart hurts.

    I can’t believe this is the end.

    Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      They went with novel ending so that’s actually pretty good in terms of the story. Going out as Lin Shu, defending the country till the very end, going out as a hero – that’s what MCS wanted the most so I guess for him it was the best ending he could hope for.

      TBH I want MCS to survive and have a happy life with Nihuang and Prince Jing (and Fei Liu, and all the Chiyan and Jiangzuo people) but alas, that’s probably because I love MCS so much and want him to have a happy ending.

      I can’t wait to rewatch the whole thing again once I get some time 🙂

      Reply ↓

    • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

      They went with novel ending so that’s actually pretty good in terms of the story. Going out as Lin Shu, defending the country till the very end, going out as a hero – that’s what MCS wanted the most so I guess for him it was the best ending he could hope for.

      That whole renaming the army bit? GODDAMN that was BEAUTIFUL. So fitting that the person who loves Lin Shu the most and was closest to the Lin family renames the restructured army “Chang Lin Army”, as a way to forever remember them and keep their loyal and brave spirit alive.

      TBH I want MCS to survive and have a happy life with Nihuang and Prince Jing (and Fei Liu, and all the Chiyan and Jiangzuo people) but alas, that’s probably because I love MCS so much and want him to have a happy ending.

      I can’t wait to rewatch the whole thing again once I get some time 🙂

      Reply ↓

      • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

        You know how in the book Prince Jing wrote out the names of those who sacrificed? I wish they had done that ending but at the same time I’m glad they didn’t because that would mean more crying for me.

        But I’m very satisfied with the way it ended because MCS/LS would have wanted it that way. Plus that scene of Gong Yu handing Ni Huang the letter with her name “Lin Ni Huang” as opposed as to Mu Ni Huang spoke volumes. In his heart, she is already his wife. Beautiful.

        Prince Jing’s final touch of naming the army as Chang Lin Army was indeed beautiful.

        Reply ↓

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          I just realized that the letter was address to 吾妹 after looking at captions. Of course through my tears I couldn’t see that very well. T__T

          In any case, my opinion still stands about him thinking of her as his wife.

        • 241 thoughts on “Cdrama: Nirvana in Fire & The Disguiser Episodes”

          Oh so you saw the way he wrote her name too! (I thought I was hallucinating LOL)
          I agree with you – in both their hearts, MCS and Nihuang are husband and wife.

          The ending differed to that in the book but I like how they ended it on the naming the army thing cuz that was more dramatic. The writing all the names and crying bit was so sad so if they acted it out I would’ve been so traumatized 🙁

          Jingyan had really wet eyes and he looked very emotional when he wrote the name so I count that as a nod to the original novel ending 🙂

What do you think?