Featuring “Fight for You” stars, Andy Ko & Nelson Ji, “Black & White is Real” diverts into two different stories. Fans who enjoyed watching the first project might be naturally drawn to this show because of the natural chemistry between the main leads. Unfortunately, the executive falls short and the storytelling remains abysmal. At times, it seems like the storytelling heavily leans on the chemistry between the main leads; the vertical format works against the pacing as well. The suspense pertaining to the two different stories adds a nice charm to the narrative and is a surprising addition. Despite that, the show was disappointing to watch, and I was nearly exhausted from watching the 2 mins video everyday.

The Storyline-

The show opens with a short prelude where we are introduced to best friends, Tian You (Andy Ko) and You Zi (Nelson Ji). Tian You seems to have unspoken feelings for You Zi. But he never acts on them. You Zi’s girlfriend has doubts about their relationship which she often voices openly. Feeling guilty, Tian You decides to study abroad.

There is a transition, and suddenly we are introduced to Bai Xing (Nelson Ji) and He Yan (Andy Ko). He Yan is a popular actor while Bai Xing is a budding star. There is a certain awkwardness between these two, not remains unexplained. Bai Xing’s manager, Chen Xiao An (Wills Sia), and He Yan’s manager, Lin Bing Chen (Jack Sun) have their own issues. The tension between the managers causes friction between their actors too. Things take an unexpected turn when both actors audition for a supposedly straight commercial which turns BL-themed, when the director notices the obvious chemistry between Bai Xing & He Yan.

Before shooting commences, Bai Xing & He Yan are sent to a stowaway, where they have to live together and their interactions are recorded. Like most reality shows, they are given missions and their reactions are captured for behind-the-scenes videos to create a buzz. As they live together, Bai Xing & He Yan grow together, as they have casual conversations and learn more about each other.

Returning to the normal world, they still remain in contact, as they slowly start falling in love. As they grow closer, their managers, Chen Xioa An & Lin Bing Chen also rehash ancient history, resolve their past disagreements and get back together.

The Chemistry-

The only saving grace for this show is the awesome chemistry between Andy Ko & Nelson Ji. Even though the vertical format, choppy storytelling and faulty execution is a major disadvantage, Andy Ko & Nelson Ji breeze through their performances. The chemistry between the supporting couple, Wills Xia & Jack Sun is refreshing.

Final Impressions

After watching “Fight for You”, I was kind of excited to watch Andy Ko & Nelson Ji in their second project. Sadly, this show fails to arouse the same kind of excitement, and it pretty much fails on all counts. The NC scenes betray the strong chemistry between the main leads, but that isn’t enough to hold your attention. The transition between the first and second stories isn’t seamless & remains confusing. I wish they hadn’t invested so much time in dragging out the story for 77 episodes and finished it relatively faster.

Rating- 2 out of 5

Streaming on- Youku & VBL Series YouTube Channel