I think you overrate the actors too much. As for the grand atmosphere, I think that's why I don't like all of Zhang Ji Zhong's recent productions, but love his Xiao Ao Jing Hu. So much less time is wasted on ppl fighting for hours and hours, or trying to delineate the beauty of a zhao shi (movement/skill), or like the scene of Liu Yi Fei swimming in the water, which didn't mean anything. Even though all Jing Yong productions have a wonderful plot, I feel that by trying to make something so beautiful and grand, it takes away from the plot and makes it unrealistic. I feel that Jing Yong should be portrayed more human and less fairy-tale-like. Probably this is the reason why XAJH didn't get so great reviews from the critics.
Those who hope that there is a Lavender 2, there is a miniseries (around four episodes) of Lavender 2. But I have been warned it is extremely bad, so watch at your own risk.
bluegirl11375's Opinions
bluegirl11375 has not written any opinion columns yet.
I think it's the storyline that has the problem. I agree that Yong Qi and Qian Long were miscasts, but the new Zi Wei was quite good.