Be With You (2020) Chinese Drama Review
The Story
Be With You (2020) is a romantic Chinese drama that delicately blends themes of friendship, love, and second chances. The story follows Qi Nian, a budding manhua artist who unexpectedly finds inspiration for her male lead character in Ji Yanxin, a cold, perfectionist psychology professor.
Though initially distant and guarded, Ji Yanxin is gradually drawn into Qi Nian’s world of warmth, creativity, and youthful energy. Their evolving relationship is filled with humor, misunderstandings, and tender moments, as they learn to navigate the gap between their very different personalities. The series captures the sweetness of first love while exploring the vulnerability of opening one’s heart.
Key Performances
Sun Qian brings charm and vibrancy to her role as Qi Nian, balancing playful energy with a quiet determination that makes her character both lovable and relatable. Zhang Yujian, as Ji Yanxin, offers a restrained yet powerful performance, portraying the emotional growth of a man learning to connect with others after years of isolation.
The chemistry between the two leads is natural and compelling—their banter is witty, their conflicts feel authentic, and their affection develops at a believable pace. Supporting characters, particularly Qi Nian’s friends and Ji Yanxin’s colleagues, add lighthearted humor and subplots that enhance the main romance.
Direction and Visuals
The direction keeps the pacing smooth, focusing on everyday moments that slowly build intimacy between the leads. The use of soft lighting and warm color tones reinforces the drama’s romantic atmosphere, while urban backdrops highlight the contrast between Ji Yanxin’s rigid academic world and Qi Nian’s colorful artistic lifestyle.
Costume and set design are also thoughtfully done—Qi Nian’s style reflects her creativity, while Ji Yanxin’s minimalist wardrobe underscores his disciplined personality. The soundtrack, with sweet and mellow tracks, matches the tone of the story, accentuating both the lighthearted and heartfelt moments.
Thematic Depth
Beyond its charming romance, Be With You explores themes of healing, vulnerability, and acceptance. Ji Yanxin’s guarded nature reflects the struggles of individuals who build emotional walls, while Qi Nian embodies the courage to pursue love despite setbacks.
The series also emphasizes the importance of balance in relationships—accepting differences, encouraging growth, and finding joy in companionship. While it stays light in tone, it resonates with viewers who appreciate stories about emotional growth and the transformative power of love.
Final Verdict
Be With You (2020) is a heartwarming modern romance drama that succeeds through its charming leads, genuine chemistry, and relatable themes. It doesn’t rely on heavy melodrama or forced plot twists, instead offering a comforting and engaging love story that feels authentic. For fans of sweet romances and character-driven storytelling, this drama is a delightful watch.