“Love After Addiction” Series Review (Ep.5 to 12)

Their homecoming is over, and I’m still enjoying the feels!!

Lin Feng Song & Chen Wen’s long-awaited reunion obviously piqued my curiosity. They first appeared in the 2016 sleeper hit “Addicted Heroin”. Even though they played supporting roles, their characters were endearing, and they did gain a certain amount of popularity, until Chinese censorship knocked them over. It took them ten years for this comeback and although their return wasn’t anticipated, it is certainly entertaining. The show suffers because of low production value and abysmal storytelling, but Lin Feng Song & Chen Wen’s chemistry overshadows those flaws. Unfortunately, that isn’t enough to tide over a show that drags for almost 12 episodes!!

The Storyline & Chemistry

Award-winning actor Yoki (Lin Feng Song) hits rock bottom after a series of scandals and chronic insomnia derail his career. His manager suggests that he should join a reality show to rebrand his damaged reputation. Although initially reluctant, Yoki realizes that the show is show will be shot in the same town where one of his loyal fans resides. As he travels to the small fishing town, unexpectedly, Yoki reunites with Yang Meng (Chen Wen), his long-lost school friend. Their reunion is backed by several ups and downs as Yang Meng initially avoids him. But Yoki doesn’t back down and before long, they start dating earnestly. Unfortunately, Yoki’s cheap tricks to deceive the audiences come forth and Yang Meng’s misunderstands his intentions. They have a break-up and Yang Meng resolutely returns to the city with his estranged father. Yoki decides to apologize for his behavior by stepping away from the entertainment industry. He also reveals his sexual orientation at a press conference. A year later, while traversing through a desert, Yoki saves a dying man, who turns out to be a renowned director. He decides to turn Yoki’s life story into a movie. Ultimately, Yoki reunites with Yang Meng when they return to the fishing town.

Lin Feng Song & Chen Wen’s onscreen & offscreen chemistry is equally strong. Every time they are together, the magic never ceases to exist. It is like traveling ten years in the future and watching their advanced years. Lin Feng Song’s comic timing is fantastic, something that hasn’t changed in years.

Final Impressions

The actor’s awesome chemistry can only save the show upto a level!!

Even though Lin Feng Song & Chen Wen have a fiery chemistry, and they keeps you invested in this story, the script suffers from unnecessary loopholes and odd pacing. The low budget doesn’t help the production value. The show is indeed an earnest comeback for the lead stars, but I wish the script was better. Also, the supporting couple are forgettable, you wonder why their part was added.

Rating- 3 out of 5

Streaming on- Gagaoolala/Viki/GTV Drama English YouTube Channel

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