LayarHijau – Republican-era romance drama Overdo (这一秒过火), starring Zhang Linghe and Wang Churan, got off to an impressive commercial start. Before its premiere, the series reportedly secured 120 million yuan (approximately US$16.7 million) in sponsorship deals, surpassed 10 million reservations, and quickly climbed to the top of multiple popularity rankings after its release.
Less than half a day after debuting, Overdo claimed the No. 1 spot on Maoyan’s drama popularity chart. The series also delivered strong performance on both iQIYI and Tencent Video, making it one of the most talked-about Chinese dramas of the summer.
Support Layar Hijau
Layar Hijau is an independent media outlet dedicated to sharing news and stories about the Asian dramas you love. If you enjoy our content, your support helps us keep going and bring more stories to fellow drama fans.
Every bit of support means a lot to us. Thank you for reading, following, and being part of Layar Hijau's journey.
For supporters in Indonesia
For international supporters
For more information, click here.
Despite its blockbuster launch, however, the show’s overwhelmingly positive pre-release buzz has been matched by an equally intense wave of criticism since its premiere. Widely expected to become both a ratings hit and a critical success thanks to its popular source material and visually appealing lead cast, Overdo instead sparked sharply divided reactions after its first five episodes aired. Director Yi Jun has become the main target of viewers’ complaints.
Many viewers argued that Overdo looks more like a low-budget vertical drama than a premium long-form television production. One of the biggest complaints centers on the show’s excessive use of pale color grading and heavy skin-smoothing filters, which many believe strip away the rich atmosphere and visual depth expected from a Republican-era drama.
Its cinematography has also come under fire. Viewers criticized the frequent use of face-filling framing and extremely tight close-up shots, techniques commonly associated with short-form dramas. They argued that the camera work focuses too heavily on showcasing the actors’ good looks while failing to highlight Zhang Linghe and Wang Churan’s strong screen presence and well-balanced physical proportions. The scene composition was also described as repetitive and rigid, lacking the visual storytelling typically expected from a full-length drama.
Another point of contention is the drama’s opening title sequence, which was created using AI technology. Many viewers felt the result looked rough and out of place, clashing with the production’s overall visual style. At the same time, critics said the story moves at a rushed pace, offers insufficient emotional development, and piles on melodramatic plot twists without giving the characters enough time to breathe. As a result, the high expectations surrounding the series quickly turned into disappointment, with discussions about Yi Jun continuing to dominate social media in China.
Within fan communities, many viewers accused the director of putting minimal effort into Overdo, arguing that the production failed to make the most of its attractive cast. Even so, Wang Churan and Zhang Linghe are both expected to reunite with Yi Jun on future projects.
One of those projects is Tales of the Floating World (浮生), a fantasy romance starring Chen Zheyuan and Wang Churan. Adapted from Sha Luo Shuang Shu’s novel Fu Sheng Wu Yu (浮生物语), the drama follows Sha Luo, a thousand-year-old tree spirit who disguises herself as an innkeeper, and Ao Chi, a mysterious young military commander. Their encounter during a supernatural case leads them on a journey across time and space, where each mystery they solve reveals stories of love, freedom, and redemption.
Yi Jun is also rumored to direct Ci Tang (刺棠), a costume drama produced by Lemon Pictures. According to industry rumors, Zhang Linghe has been cast as the male lead, while Lu Yuxiao, who is represented by the same agency as Zhang, is reportedly in talks to play the female lead. The project, however, has yet to be officially announced.
The back-to-back collaborations have left some disappointed fans worried about Yi Jun’s upcoming productions. Many hope the director can address the concerns raised by Overdo and deliver a stronger showing in his future works.
Ultimately, the debate surrounding Overdo highlights that commercial success and audience approval do not always go hand in hand. While the drama has enjoyed remarkable business results and widespread attention, many viewers believe that production quality, cinematic aesthetics, and compelling storytelling remain the true foundations of a successful series. All eyes are now on whether Tales of the Floating World and Ci Tang can overcome the criticism currently surrounding Yi Jun’s work.
Chinese dramas products
Rosy Zhao Rosydoedian Authentic Dachshund Plush Doll Squeaky Soft Stuffed Decorative Throw Pillow Collectible Gift
Authenthic Dachshund plush doll from Zhao Lusi's Rosydoedian.
It's only available for shipping to certain countries.
Official Genuine Pursuit of Jade Drama Collectible Photocards Zhang Linghe Tian Xiwei Photo Trading Cards Holiday Gift
Official genuine collectible photocards These Pursuit of Jade Drama collectible photocards are officially licensed and authentic, featuring beloved characters Zhang Linghe and Tian Xiwei. Perfect for fans seeking genuine memorabilia from the popular drama.
New Drama Fangs Of Fortune Official Merch Collectible Cards Zhao Yuanzhou, Wen Xiao Characters HD Photocard Cosplay Gift
Official Merchandise from Fangs of Fortune This collectible card set is officially licensed Fangs of Fortune merchandise, featuring beloved characters Zhao Yuanzhou and Wen Xiao in high-definition detail for true fans.
