“Mirror: A Tale of Twin Cities” Falls Hard from Expectations
Starring Li Yifeng (李易峰) and Chen Yuqi (陈钰琪), historical fantasy romance Mirror: A Tale of Twin Cities <镜·双城> unfortunately did not hit the mark for expectant viewers who are largely disappointed at its plot, editing, pacing, casting, and acting. With only one week left on air, the 43-episode series continues to show no sign of improvement as ongoing criticisms grew. It currently only has a 3.9 star rating on Douban.
Plot Inconsistencies
An adaptation of a popular novel of the same name by Cang Yue (沧月), Mirror: A Tale of Twin Cities initially garnered much attention similar to other -prominent IP projects. However, since its premiere, viewers could only see more flaws than major highlights.
The plot is described to be far from the original. Novel fans found the emphasis on the romance also vastly different from the novel, where there was a broad range of relationships explored and the characters shared a greater sense of patriotism with interesting motives.
While changes can be made to freshen up the drama, viewers found it difficult to justify the plot inconsistencies. They also had trouble immersing in the romance between the leads, who met and fell in love inexplicably. The other characters also felt like they existed simply to support the leads, with no further development or interesting background.
Inappropriate Casting
Another issue was the selection of actors, as many particularly found Yifeng and Yuqi to be unfitting for their roles. Both were heavily criticized for their stiff expressions and unvarying gazes, which offered few emotions for viewers to emphasize with.
Portraying the resentful and unfathomable Su Mo, Yifeng did not emit the same coldness as his original character in the novel. Instead of prioritizing the country and his duty, Yifeng appeared too focused on playing “the hero who saves the beauty.”
Yuqi is largely criticized for her expressionless face, which confused viewers who could not get a grasp her character’s emotions and inner motives. Particularly, her development from Bai Ying to Princess Kong Sang was not evident enough, which inevitably resulted in a dull and empty performance.
Lack Of Attention in Details
Additionally, there are also flaws in styling and special effects. Costume and makeup appear unrefined and indelicate, which are hard to ignore. Also, the special effects were rough and hard to fully engage in. With a number of criticisms, Mirror: A Tale of Twin Cities is another example of a highly marketed IP adaptation which delivered a below par dramatic adaption.
“Mirror: A Tale of Twin Cities” Trailer
Source: Sohu
This article is written by Minna for JayneStars.com.
I thought Chen Yuqi was quite good as a newcomer back in Ashes of Love. Didn’t watch her other dramas but there have been criticisms of her acting. As for Li Yifeng, has never liked or disliked him.
Anyone any good dramas to recommend? I have just completed Reset.
If you have yet to watch, try Sword Snow Stride. I prefer Joy of Life but that ended with a cliffhanger with no confirmed news of when S2 will start filming.
Go watch Novoland: Pearl Eclipse, it is good.
Awwwww…. This Cdrama is one on my list to watch. Maybe it won’t be too bad to watch. Probably these people that complain had a too high expectations. I’ll just admire Li Yifeng when I get ready to watch this. I’m not too familiar with Chen Yu Qi work. Anything that is made into a script will always be a bit different from the book, just because it’s been dramatized.
Chen Yuqi didn’t leave an impression on me in ashes of love but somehow whenever I see her I run away. I’m honestly tired of Xianxia, I haven’t enjoyed many dramas in the genre, it’s all the same these days.
I’m going to catch so much flak for saying this, but neither leads have charisma IMO. I remembered when ppl were raving about Li Yifeng and how he’s an upcoming hotshot bound for top actor status and I was just flummoxed. He wasn’t charming to me – the same way William Chan is not charming to me. Again this is just my taste, everyone has a preference. And then you bound him with an equally lacking partner Chen Yuqi, and substandard direction and storyline, how can they expect the drama to not flop?
I completely agree with you on William Chan. I’m not sure why he is so popular. I still remember his cringe ad for the Chanel watch. I can’t comment on Li Yifeng since I haven’t seen an entire drama that he’s been in. I’ve tried to start a few but I could never finish.
Hahaha… same feelings here for this actor, William Chan or Wallace Chung including many others. I guess everyone have their own preference be it in terms of looks or acting. I do not dislike them but I think they don’t leave any lasting impression at all.
@Bizzybody yes, Wallace Chung too! This guy always look like he’s upset over something, very little variation in facials expressions. Don’t understand his hype. @lilseemonster yes, WC is just not a good actor whatsoever. LYF might be an okay actor, but he has no charisma, so it’s hard to be connected with his acting.