A Familiar Stranger (2022)
A captivating blend of romance, intrigue, and magic. Swap faces, hidden identities, and a tantalizing love triangle. Watch now!
MyDramaList Rating
Info
| Original Title | 虚颜 |
|---|---|
| Formats | Streaming |
| Seasons | 1 |
| Episodes | 18 |
| Duration | 12 mins |
| Status | Ended |
| Year | 2022 |
| First Air Date | September 23, 2022 |
| Last Air Date | October 3, 2022 |
| Broadcast Day | monday, friday, saturday, sunday |
| Network | Mango TV |
Trailer
Synopsis
Shi Qi (Ke Ying) is a talented and good-natured artist who, during one of her painting assignments, learns of an affair between the chancellor’s cruel and exploitative daughter, Shen Qin (Kay Song), and the ruler of the realm, King Ning (Wang Ze Xuan). Shen Qin, however, is engaged to marry the powerful general Xiao Han Sheng (Ryan Cheng). But when Shi Qi accidentally witnesses deadly and nefarious goings-on at the court, she finds herself drawn into trouble. Shen Qin devises a way to enlist a magician to swap her face with that of Shi Qi – so that she and the painter can “switch” identities. As such, Shi Qi ends up “engaged” to Xiao Han Sheng, while Shen Qin takes up the painter’s identity. But the “real” Shi Qi has already crossed paths with Xiao Han Sheng many years ago – even though he has no idea who she truly “is” now.
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Editor's Review
A Captivating Blend of Romance, Intrigue, and Magic
“A Familiar Stranger” weaves a spellbinding tale of love, deception, and identity in a historical fantasy setting. With only 18 episodes, this miniseries manages to pack in a riveting plot, well-drawn characters, and unexpected twists.
The story begins with Shi Qi, who embarks on a quest to find her long-lost sister. However, fate takes a dark turn when she crosses paths with Shen Qin, the scheming daughter of the Prime Minister. A magician’s dark magic swaps their faces, leaving Shi Qi married to General Xiao Hansheng in Shen Qin’s place. Meanwhile, Shen Qin assumes Shi Qi’s identity and returns to her lover, the ambitious and ruthless Prince Ning.
The tension escalates as Shi Qi grapples with her dual role: protecting her sister, held hostage by Shen Qin, and concealing the truth from both her husband and Prince Ning. The plot masterfully entangles affairs, murder, treason, and a tantalizing romance. The face-off between the two women, fueled by secrets and hidden agendas, delivers a gobsmacking twist that leaves viewers breathless.
The chemistry between the lead couple crackles with passionate intensity. Their relationship blossoms authentically, grounded in the idea that Shi Qi’s unique identity transcends mere physical appearance. Her soulmate recognizes her core essence, a stark contrast to Prince Ning, who lacks insight and connection.
But it’s not just the central romance that captivates. The second couple’s dark chemistry adds another layer of intrigue. Amidst the darkness, witty banter and humor infuse the dialogue, especially between General Xiao Hansheng and his military advisor. Their evolving relationship is both heartwarming and hilarious.
The young cast delivers heartfelt performances. Their kiss scenes sizzle, and they breathe life into their characters. While “A Familiar Stranger” may not be a masterpiece, it’s undeniably addictive. The suspenseful plot, combined with the sensual romance, earns it an 8.4 rating.
In summary, this drama is a total find—a delectably sexy and suspenseful gem that defies expectations. Don’t miss it. And a special shoutout to @Noel for the stupendously good recommendation.