LayarHijau— iQIYI’s latest historical fantasy drama Fate Chooses You (佳偶天成), starring Ren Jialun and Wang Herun, officially premiered on May 25. Although its initial ratings have yet to reach the top, the drama quickly captured attention with its fast-paced and high-intensity storytelling from the very first episode. Many viewers believe it has strong potential to turn things around, thanks to three standout strengths that have earned widespread praise.
The first key strength lies in its fresh and bold storyline. Adapted from the novel by Shi Si Lang, the drama follows Lu Qianqiao, an orphan from the War Ghost clan who is burdened with the “Five Imperfections Curse.” He cannot see colors, taste food, feel pain, sleep, and even develops bloodthirsty tendencies, losing almost all normal human sensations. In one poignant line, he says, “Compared to immortality or limitless power, I would rather live like an ordinary human.” To be reborn as a complete human, he must endure five extreme trials: replacing his skin, flesh, bones, blood, and heart.
From the very beginning, the drama breaks away from typical costume drama formulas. In the first episode, Lu Qianqiao—disguised as the corrupt official Lu Huai—marries Xin Mei, a gifted cultivator burdened with a fate that brings misfortune to her husband. The story quickly escalates as Lu Qianqiao is subjected to brutal torture, while Xin Mei begins to uncover the truth behind his identity and fights to clear his name. This rapid pacing and layered conflict create strong dramatic tension that keeps viewers engaged.
The second strength is its impressive action sequences. Ren Jialun delivers multiple intense fight scenes, including throws, mid-air spins, and long-take combat choreography. A significant portion of these scenes were performed by him personally, showcasing his dedication. Meanwhile, Wang Herun stands out with her character transformation. Previously known for strong antagonist roles, she now portrays Xin Mei as both composed and emotionally compelling. One particularly memorable scene shows her rushing back to the execution ground to save Lu Qianqiao after learning the truth, even stumbling along the way—highlighting her urgency and emotional depth.
The third strength comes from its solid production team and cast. The drama is directed by Guo Hu, known for One and Only (周生如故), ensuring a high level of production quality. In addition to the two leads, the series features a strong supporting cast including Riley Wang, Liu Xueyi, Xiao Shunyao, and Zheng Yecheng. With an experienced director and a visually appealing ensemble, each episode delivers a rich and engaging viewing experience.
Although some viewers feel that Ren Jialun’s role bears similarities to his previous performances, the drama still shows strong potential. With its unconventional storyline, high-quality action, and compelling cast, Fate Chooses You is widely seen as a contender that could rise in rankings and become one of the standout dramas to watch.
