Love of Nirvana 流水迢迢 was released on September 14, 2024, and just after the premiere, things get intense such that “he stabs her” was the trending hashtag. The male lead Wei Zhao, played by Ren Jialun stabs Li Landi’s heroine Jiang Ci without hesitation—no mercy at all—his mind only focused on his mission. In fact, there’s no love for her as she’s caught between the two men: first, she gets hit by Wei Zhao, and then Pei Yan gives her another blow from behind. I thought thi was tragic enough, but it gets even worse. She’s stabbed, poisoned, and the male lead even sadistically presses at her wound!
A Heroine Trapped Between Two Ruthless Men
Love of Nirvana mixes politics, revenge, and romance in a historical drama setting. The male lead Xiao Wu Xia who goes undercover as Wei Zhao is undeniably ruthless, driven by revenge. His parents were murdered, his people enslaved, and he’s not just fighting for personal vengeance—he’s fighting for the dignity of his people. He’s clear on his mission even as he finds his match in the heroine.
As for Pei Yan, the second male lead played by Jeremy Xu Zhengxi, he’s also not your love-struck rival. He appears kind, gentle, and caring, but it’s all manipulation. He’s saved Jiang Ci multiple times, seeming to get closer to her, but watches as Jiang Ci is tortured, just to capture the assassin.
Jiang Ci, played by Li Landi, is constantly in distress, but she’s no fool. She’s cautious, smart, and doesn’t want to become a pawn between Wei Zhao and Pei Yan. Her goal is simple: to escape. Honestly, though, you really start feeling sorry for the character who’s in the running for the most pitiful heroine—how is she even alive?
Ren Jialun Deviates from His Usual Male Lead Lead
As for Allen Ren Jialun, who’s known for many historical idol dramas as the good guy, he’s still the protagonist here. But this time, his character is morally gray. Just count how many times he’s tried to kill the heroine already! The main draw of the story thus far lies in the power struggle between the two male leads and the woman caught between them. How will the heroine ever fall in love with him? With all the angst, it wouldn’t be surprising if this drama has a sad ending.
While the political scheming in Love of Nirvana might not be the most complex, if you don’t think too hard, the opening is paced well, gripping you from the start. And with Jeremy Xu Zhengxi completing the love triangle, it’s a treat to see the actor given how this may be among his last dramas. So far, though, I don’t like either guy for the heroine!
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Coralie
I am already ouching for the FL even reading the descriptions…not interested in sadistic shows.
Arduinna
The political scheming in the novel is quite complex, but sadly they’ve dumbed it down a lot in the drama version which is really deplorable.
The same goes for the 2ML who in the novel is a lot more ruthless and miles better at the scheming business. It would have been nice to see Xu Zhengxi in a darker, more challenging role because his acting is absolutely on point.
I really don’t care too much for the fluffy romance and childish cuteness that was added presumably to satisfy the tastes of a younger audience. Pei Yan is the reason to continue watching this!
Una
Agreed. I guess I am officially not in the “younger audience” category, as i really don’t understand what is so interesting about silly unrealistic romances and can’t see why it is a “must ingredient” in almost all drama.
yarnie
The novel was quite dramatic and also has BE ending… I was hoping for a lighter ending or theme for drama itself but looks like ending might be same with novel… Cant wait for painfull love story what can I say x’D
I like the way Alan’s character is quite different than his usual picks! & I love watching Landy Li in any costume drama. Never thought them as a pair before but I like the dynamic between them.