Lost You Forever is a different breed of xianxia drama. It explores love in its many forms, whether it be possessive, destructive, enduring, or honest, in a way that pays equal attention to all characters, so you can never really know where their relationships with each other are headed (if you haven't read the source material). There are a lot of dramas boasting insane production and interesting premises only to fall into cliches at the last half of the series, but the first season of Lost You Forever kept me hooked until the end with its unpredictability and impeccable chemistry among ALL members of the main cast. The plot does get draggy a bit in the third quarter, but by then you're probably in too deep and rooting for at least one favorite character to get a nice ending.

The characters, particularly Xiaoyao, Cang Xuan, Tushan Jing, Xiang Liu, and Chishui Fenglong have their unique charms that draw the audience in and drive the story forward. The characterization is complex, but so far consistent. For example, Xiang Liu undergoes some character development, but he doesn't completely change; his cruelty and coldness remain present. Tushan Jing is smart in business but too naive and kind for his own good, even though he tries to be more forceful. Xiaoyao shifts into the role of a princess but still retains some manly habits. Personally, I like Chishui Fenglong the best (as a character, not as Xiaoyao's love interest)-- he's introduced late in the series but he brought a bright, rejuvenating energy that helped prevent the story from being too heavy or too cutesy, and he seems to be the character that pulls everyone and everything together. Also, fashion king (the colors, embroidery/patterns, and silhouettes of his costumes are so pretty).

Of the cast, Yang Zi is phenomenal as always, and I want to praise Zhang Wan Yi as Cang Xuan, because boy, can he match the Yang Zi's energy especially when acting out the lowest points and most tragic moments of their characters (the screaming, the way they clutch at each other, the shaking and crying). Another standout is Tan Jian Ci, whose looks are arguably the softest out of the main leads, but magnificently brings the deadly and intoxicating Xiang Liu/Fangfeng Bei to life (his range!!) Also bless his sweet vocals in the official soundtracks.

The first season of Lost You Forever has it all with compelling storytelling, an impressive cast, gorgeous production, and lovely music (I've read some translations of the lyrics of a couple of songs in the drama, and I'm in love with the intricate lyricism.) I caught a couple of errors in the special effects, but they're only memorable because the effects are normally so beautifully done. I've seen glimpses of Season 2 from the official trailer, and we're gearing up for heartbreak, but here's to hoping the quality is up to par with, if not better than Season 1.