Intense Love is a strangely entertaining drama. I have mixed feelings about it.

Okay so although some parts, especially in the first couple episodes, were a little boring to me, the good parts make up for it.

Unpopular opinion incoming...but... I don't really think the chemistry between the main couple in this drama is as strong as most people say it is. The kiss scenes were hot I'll give you that. But in their other romance scenes, when they're together, I just can't sense that they truly understand each other or have that emotional bond. Having their engagement arranged already, it's funny how their love for each other seemed to have emerged out of nowhere. Though a doctor-actress pair is pretty unconventional, which makes for an interesting watch.

Whenever Jinbei tries to act cute towards Dr. Zhou, I cringe a little on the inside. I get it's her way of displaying affection, but she sometimes sounds like a spoiled, whiny five-year old who is trying to manipulate others into doing things she wants them to do. She does it to her manager too and her manager can do nothing but give in to her requests even when she's fed up already. Idk maybe I'm just not used to that behavior.

I don't hate Jinbei's other qualities though. In fact, I love that she's truly kind-hearted, moral, and hard-working. It's just her dramatic fake acting with her bf that I don't like and kind of ruined their relationship for me.

Also I know Dr. Zhou is a doctor and doctor's are usually serious, cold and rational but I thought Ryan's acting could be a little less stiff. He warms up to her later on which is nice, but it wasn't like a believable, slow development in personality.

Enough about the things I don't like. There are many positive things I'd like to mention as well.
1. Dr. Xiao!! He was my favorite character in this drama. His crazy hilarious antics made this drama worth watching. If he weren't in this drama, it would just be all drama, romance and kissing devoid of funny moments. The addition of his character was a breath of fresh air.
2. The music!! I don't know why people have been giving low ratings for the music because I think the tracks they chose to go with the scenes fit the mood well, not to mention the intro and ending song are both sweet and calming.
3. Xu Jia wei - Ying ying relationship!! A bit unrealistic but cute af! I SHIP. Ying Ying is truly living every fangirl's dreams! Lucky girl. But also, I'm relieved Jiawei finally found a girl who actually gets him you know.

Overall, this was a really light and easy-to-watch drama. :) It's also my first time reviewing a Chinese drama, so do keep in mind these opinions are from someone who's a C-drama newbie. I've only had experience with K-dramas so perhaps I'm reviewing this through a K-drama lens. But I definitely plan on watching more C-dramas in the future so if anyone has recommendations, please do share.