Life Is a Long Quiet River (2022)
Follows two sisters-in-law navigating family tensions and personal growth in modern Shanghai after a tragic loss. A poignant family drama.
MyDramaList Rating
Info
| Original Title | 心居 |
|---|---|
| Formats | Streaming |
| Seasons | 1 |
| Episodes | 35 |
| Duration | 45 mins |
| Status | Ended |
| Year | 2022 |
| First Air Date | March 17, 2022 |
| Last Air Date | April 4, 2022 |
| Broadcast Day | monday, tuesday, wednesday, thursday, friday, saturday, sunday |
| Network | iQiyi, Tencent Video |
Trailer
Synopsis
It has been ten years since Feng Xiaoqin, a foreign daughter-in-law married with a big belly, to the Gu family, but Gu Qingyu, the eldest aunt, has always been wary of this woman who wrote "change her destiny" on her face. Feng Xiaoqin urged her husband Gu Lei to borrow money from her twin sister Gu Qingyu to buy a house, but Gu Qingyu deftly resolved her and revealed her plan to buy a luxury house. After Gu Lei's unexpected death, the conflict between aunts and sisters continued to escalate, and the single mother Feng Xiaoqin was almost desperate. For the dream of her youth, Gu Qingyu reshaped her cognition of life in reality and dreams, from flash marriage to flash divorce. The two women have gone from confrontation to mutual understanding. No matter how stormy the future may be, they will carry the family together.
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Editor's Review
Life is a Long Quiet River (心居) is a Chinese drama that aired in 2022, directed by Teng Hua Tao and written by Teng Xiao Lan. The series, which spans 36 episodes, delves into the intricate dynamics of family life, societal expectations, and personal growth, set against the backdrop of modern Shanghai.
The story revolves around two sisters-in-law, Feng Xiaoqin (played by Hai Qing) and Gu Qingyu (played by Tong Yao). Feng Xiaoqin, who married into the Gu family, has always been viewed with suspicion by her sister-in-law, Gu Qingyu. The tension between them escalates when Feng Xiaoqin urges her husband, Gu Lei, to borrow money from his sister to buy a house. Gu Qingyu, however, cleverly avoids the request by revealing her own plans to purchase a luxury home.
The plot takes a dramatic turn when Gu Lei dies unexpectedly, leaving Feng Xiaoqin to navigate life as a single mother. This tragedy forces the two women to confront their differences and work together to support their family. Through their journey, they both undergo significant personal growth, moving from relentless confrontation to mutual understanding.
Character Development and Performances
One of the standout aspects of “Life is a Long Quiet River” is its deep character development. Feng Xiaoqin’s transformation from a desperate housewife to a resilient single mother is portrayed with remarkable nuance by Hai Qing. Her performance captures the struggles and triumphs of a woman determined to secure a better future for her child. Tong Yao’s portrayal of Gu Qingyu is equally compelling, showcasing a character who evolves from a skeptical sister-in-law to a supportive family member.
The supporting cast, including Zhang Song Wen as Zhan Xiang and William Feng as Shi Yuan, also deliver strong performances, adding depth to the narrative. The interactions between the characters are realistic and emotionally charged, making the audience empathize with their plights and root for their growth.
Themes and Social Commentary
“Life is a Long Quiet River” is more than just a family drama; it is a commentary on societal issues such as class disparity, the pressures of urban life, and the complexities of familial relationships. The series highlights the challenges faced by individuals trying to navigate the socio-economic landscape of modern China. It also explores themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the pursuit of personal dreams, making it a relatable and thought-provoking watch.
Cinematography and Direction
The cinematography of the series is another noteworthy aspect. The visuals effectively capture the essence of Shanghai, from its bustling streets to the quieter, more intimate moments within the Gu family home. Director Teng Hua Tao’s ability to weave together multiple storylines while maintaining a cohesive narrative is commendable. The pacing of the series is well-balanced, allowing for both character development and plot progression.
Conclusion
“Life is a Long Quiet River” is a poignant and engaging drama that offers a deep dive into the complexities of family life and personal growth. Its strong performances, well-developed characters, and insightful social commentary make it a standout series in the genre. Whether you are a fan of family dramas or looking for a series that provides both entertainment and reflection, “Life is a Long Quiet River” is definitely worth watching.
Have you watched this drama? What did you think of the characters and their journeys?