User Reviews

I'm a baby boomer so this drama revives my memories of those youthful years, where naivety, hope for the future, romance is aptly depicted in the drama. The lead actor, Xiao Zhan has brought out his character vividly as the strong leader with his cool-headed rationale and great camaraderie around the group. I've watched the 5 & 6 episodes and the drama has unfolded that young people already see opportunities in South China, Shenzhen is mentioned, and some are willing to go for their adventures. We are also looking at the cultural and normal practices in China from an overseas perspective, that is, you have to have some "connections" for career, medical accessibility etc.. which most of the time we took it for granted in our own country.

Looking forward to this drama on how China became the manufacturer of the world in the coming decades and Xiao Zhan's character progresses into the fast paced 80s and how his life unfolds.

The drams is actually good, the male lead is very good and the rest of the actors/actresses. It was fast paced and no fillers so far and no cheesy romantic slow motion camera work which I hate in any drama!

I just thought strange that the main female lead was hardly seen in the first few episode though I sort of like it since it does not go with the norm. I am not sure if the drama is exactly what it was during the 70's in Beijing but so far I liked the plot and hopefully the drama will not change its tone all the way to the last episode like other Chinese and Korean dramas that I have watched.

I've been waiting for this drama since the moment it started filming, so I was looking forward to it a lot, but I didn't expect it to fall in love with it so deeply. It's really a great drama. All the characters have their own stories and struggles. You can't hate any character because each one has its own reason. It's a drama I haven't missed a second of. It's simply worth all the time and effort. No wonder it's receiving so much attention even though it aired yesterday. I'm looking forward to every next episode. Finally, thank you Xiao Zhan for choosing to play this character. I found a drama with amazing people.

A rarely seen period of Chinese history, right after the Cultural Revolution throughout the next few decades is shown to us through the ups and downs of the main character, Xiao Chunsheng, and the people whose lives intersect with his. Written and produced by people who have lived it all in Beijing, it has a very authentic feel that will give us a glimpse of China of that time and the huge expansion that ultimately followed.

The characters are individual and distinct, with their own histories, joys and hurts. There is no exaggeration in emotion or situation. It is a realistic portrait of humans who are struggling to make the best possible decisions in trying times. The director and scriptwriter have a delicate, subtle touch as they weave this story of showing us who these characters are and what place shaped them so.

Led by a great performance of the Chinese star Xiao Zhan, who masterfully depicts the maturation and development of Chunsheng, the whole cast gives an excellent performance while bringing this era to life before our eyes. They wander the streets of Beijing, fall in love, struggle, fall and get up after life inevitably strikes them down, all accompanied by a magnificent instrumental BGM that provides an appropriate sense of nostalgia. Give it a try, you won't be sorry.

This period drama has characters that feel real and are insanely charming in their own ways. No one feels like they were written. They feel like they had indeed lived during this period of change in the 1970s China. Their struggles and emotions mirror what many face even today but the setting makes the story even more unique. The casting is phenomenal as each actor chosen are serious actors. Not the usual dribble found in Chinese idol dramas. As an adult this drama hits home on many levels. As a child I probably wouldn't be able to relate but as a working adult who has gone through my own growth I can empathize for the characters and understand their struggles.

The drama takes place in the 1970's and follows the journey of a group of friends. The audience will follow their triumphs, their heartbreaks and their wins/losses. I am on episode 4 of the drama and I have nothing but praise. The story, production, pacing and acting have been more than satisfactory. I'm really impressed with every aspect. Each episode is better than the last. Every character has their own charm and plays an important role. There are no weak points. I'm really looking forward to watching the rest of the series. I highly recommend it. You won't be disappointed. Don't miss out on such a heartfelt, funny, and inspirational story.

Each character has a distinct and vivid personality. There is a particular romance that belongs to this era. I enjoy the small details in the library, which add to its charm. Additionally, there is a sense of chivalry and temperament among the boys growing up in the 70s. They possess a resolute and passionate character, always pursuing justice and fairness. They are willing to selflessly sacrifice themselves for their friends and family, safeguarding that deep bond of affection. This spirit of chivalry allows them to display fearless courage in the face of adversity, never backing down. Looking forward to the development of the story.

Excellent worldbuilding. In one or two episodes I was transported to 1970s Beijing. The cinematography is excellent. Just excellent.

Fast but good pacing-quick and they manage to tell a story without too much extra scenes.

Well written and well acted characters. This is what makes the show amazing. With the power of great screenwriting and well written dialogue, you will immediately grasp the characters. They are fully realized, characters with motivations and different paths.

In one episode, I was in love. Especially with the main male lead. Well done! If youre here for the male lead, you def wont be disappointed (he is so handsome, his acting is so good such a well fit for the young man he portrays) . All the characters were well acted too. I know they took attention to detail. I can even hear the Beijing accent! The team did well with casting the actors and actresses. I also liked the ending song very melodic and enjoyable.

Overall, absolutely recommend. If you are a beginner to cdrama GO WATCH THIS NOW.

Am at episode 6 right now. So far, the story line of The Youth Memories (also known as Where Dreams Begin) is very engaging with its realistic plots and authenticity of environment. Most impressive is the acting by the whole cast. The cast blended well to portray life's uncertainties, but always with an element of hope. Special mention is the male lead, Xiao Zhan. Xiao Zhan portrayed ChunSheng as this affectionate, high-spirited, positive, bold, brave and quick-witted guy who is big brother to everyone. Xiao Zhan's realistic performance draws the audience into his fold, and you can't help but root for Xiao ChunSheng as he holds his friends and family unit together. I am looking forward to the rest of the story.

BeginOmg,actually first I don't belive I like this drama becausethis is urban drama but after I watch first episode I understand this is not complex ubrn drama fill with all serious talk,There have lot of funny and romantic parts my heart feel very relax when I watch this after finish all I feel realy brutal because I want to wait next episode now,i can't wait this is very beautiful ,and under this beautiful story there have lot of meanings and I also learn some chinese valuble history and After watching few episodes I understand there have deep meaning even the poster. I higly recommend this all.

This period drama is total different where the plot is so exciting and not boring as I thought. The drama really bring you back to the vivid scenes and the struggles of 70's era. In addition the music, charming videography and cinematography, intriguing script is excellent. Each character has their own storyline and its beautifully weaves into the plot. The handsome, smart and confidence Xiao ChunSheng who display fearless courage in the face of adversity, never backing down and together with buddy united by their unwavering desire to fulfill their dreams. WHERE DREAMS BEGIN, Looking forward to more episodes... Highly recommended to watch.

"Where Dreams Begin" is a breathtaking TV series that captures the essence of imagination, adventure, and the pursuit of one's dreams. From its captivating storyline to its remarkable performances, this show weaves a mesmerizing tapestry of emotions, leaving viewers spellbound with every episode.

The series introduces us to a group of diverse characters, each on their own unique path, united by their unwavering desire to fulfill their dreams. The depth of character development is truly exceptional, as we witness their trials, tribulations, and triumphs. Through their personal journeys, the series explores universal themes such as friendship, love, perseverance, and the power of self-belief.

Recommend.

Have just finished watching 6 episodes in just 2 days on WETV platform. I must say the story plot is excellent, original and authentic. Story is set in the 1970s where China is just opening itself up to the outside world. It tells the story of ordinary Chinese people working hard and striving for their dreams, the value of kinship, friendship and the sincere feelings to their loved ones. In those days, people are less materialistic and this story can really touched you alot. Very good acting by the main characters as well as the supporting roles. And all the characters have well developed story of itself. I would strongly recommend this drama to my friends!

Popular actor Xiao Zhan once again presents to us another interesting role, Xiao Chunsheng: a multi talented character with an extroverted personality. Xiao Zhan captivates the hearts of his audience with his amazing acting skills. I am amused by Xiao Chunsheng' wits and humour, and empathised with his sorrows in this drama. Do get ready some tissues for those sad and heart warming moments.

Despite many ups and downs, setbacks, injustices, and hardships that he faced, he has chosen to face it with courage and shines brightly. The drama didn't sing the praises of suffering, neither did it sell misery. Very insightful and motivational to the viewers.

On a whole, it has distinctive characters, good actors' acting skills and meticulous service. It is the best drama that is worth your time and is highly recommended.

Very impressive story. Mr. Xiaozhan has performed an excellent job as the leading actor in the drama.it's surprised me that he can perform a character who lived at 40 years ago who has a life journey from 19 to 50 years old. From Xiao's acting, it's hard to tell that he is the most famous young actor in his country. He supposed to be vey fashionable and modern style. However he looked very down to earth and ordinary.. You can not tell his real appearance and true characteristics traits a lot. Obviously, Mr. Xiao is very talent and hard working person, the most important, he is the global brand ambassadors for famous top brands like Gucci, Tod's and Zenith etc.

This drama is not typical C-drama which is either fantasy based or love story based. It described a vivid life story of a group of young people who lived in Beijing in 70th. I was pleasantly surprised how exciting and attractive this drams was. The main character Xiao Chunsheng was illustrated by Xiao Zhan who did a wonderful job in this drama. His life story is full of twist, really hard to express in few words, both his career development and personal life development are full of inspirational. I guarantee you once you start watching, you would like to finish the whole story in no time. I'm not going to spoil the story here, w/o further due, please start watching.

Worth the watch, the characters were able to depict human nature that as a viewer, u felt some of the characters attitudes reminds u of someone in your life. It portrays how we human beings are without making u bored, u will actually agree with the portrayal of the behaviours of the characters. Kudos to the writer, directer, casts and crews who managed to give us this life lesson drama. It shows how as humans, we really haven't changed that much since the 70s till now. The greed, the selfishness, the desire to never give up, the betrayal, the desire to follow your dreams and realising they are worth chasing, the fact that sometimes ur childhood friends wouldn't be your friends through out your years, the dedication and honor of oneself, the understanding of why people make choices that leads them to the wrong path, the regret and realising, there is no pill for regret, the hope and above all the desire to never giving up on friends and family even when u know, they are going down the wrong path and the realisation of self love. All these attributes are packed in this drama, I didn't watch a drama, I lived it cos that's how we humans are, and the casts made an amazing job of delivering that. My best drama in 2023 so far.

"Where Dreams Begin" or "The Youth Memories of Xiao Zhan" is a captivating Chinese drama series that has been aired by CCTV 8, Beijing Satellite TV, and Dragon TV. This review aims to highlight the reasons why you should watch this exceptional drama. Filled with heartfelt performances, an engaging storyline, and relatable characters, this series offers a nostalgic journey that will resonate with audiences of all ages.

1. Compelling Storyline: "Where Dreams Begin" or "The Youth Memories of Xiao Zhan" presents a compelling storyline that explores themes of dreams, friendship, and love. The plot follows the journey of the protagonist, Xiao Zhan as Xiao Chun Sheng, as he navigates the challenges and triumphs of youth, striving to achieve his dreams. The narrative is rich with emotional depth and provides an insightful reflection on the complexities of life, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking an immersive and thought-provoking viewing experience.

2. Stellar Performances: The drama boasts an ensemble cast of talented actors, with Xiao Zhan leading the way with his remarkable performance. His portrayal of the protagonist is nuanced and captivating, allowing viewers to fully connect with his character's emotions and experiences. The supporting cast delivers equally outstanding performances, adding depth and authenticity to the story. Each actor brings a unique flair, contributing to the overall excellence of the series.

3. Nostalgic Ambiance: "Where Dreams Begin" or "The Youth Memories of Xiao Zhan" masterfully captures the essence of nostalgia, transporting viewers back to a bygone era. The attention to detail in recreating the setting, fashion, and cultural references of the time period adds an extra layer of authenticity to the storytelling. Whether you personally lived through that era or not, the series has a way of evoking a sense of wistfulness and longing, creating a truly immersive experience.

4. Relatable Characters: One of the strengths of "Where Dreams Begin" or "The Youth Memories of Xiao Zhan" lies in its relatable characters. Each character is thoughtfully developed, with their own dreams, aspirations, and struggles. Viewers will find themselves invested in their journeys, as they encounter the universal challenges of youth, such as identity, friendship, and romance. The characters' growth and development throughout the series resonate with the audience, leaving a lasting impression.

5. Production Quality: The production value of this drama is outstanding. The attention to detail in set design, costumes, and cinematography enhances the visual experience, creating a visually stunning series. The soundtrack further complements the storytelling, immersing viewers in the world of "Where Dreams Begin" or "The Youth Memories of Xiao Zhan."

Conclusion: "Where Dreams Begin" or "The Youth Memories of Xiao Zhan" is a must-watch drama that beautifully captures the essence of youth, dreams, and nostalgia. With its compelling storyline, stellar performances, relatable characters, and high production quality, this series offers a truly immersive and captivating viewing experience. Whether you are a fan of Chinese dramas or simply looking for a heartfelt and thought-provoking series, "Where Dreams Begin" or "The Youth Memories of Xiao Zhan" will not disappoint. Go and watch it!

The storyline is unique and refreshing. First few episodes introdces all key characters effectively with twisting warm-up events. The storyline revolves around the friendship, love, ambitions, achievements and development of a group of childhood friends living in Beijing in the 70s and 80s. It also focuses on how these youths grew up positively and able to contribute effectively to the society. All actors and actresses portray their roles very well especially the lead actor Xiao Zhan. The setting is very nostalgic and realistic of China's lifestyle and environment in the 70s and 80s. The drama seems interesting and spurs viewers to look forward to chasing the drama.

A must-watch film, every character has their unique charm. You won't want to skip a single second because every segment is captivating and enjoyable. The dialogues in the movie are also excellent. The chemistry between Xiao Chun Sheng and Xiao Yan Qiu when they were young, and the chemistry between Xiao Chun Sheng and Tong Xiao Mei when they grew up are different but equally sweet, with distinct flavors. Tieu Chien portrays these two types of chemistry exceptionally well; it's truly remarkable.

The film has an impressive achievement, deserving high ratings, popularity, and favorable reviews. Congratulations to Xiao Zhan and the film crew.