This series needs no introduction. It’s internationally famous and a cultural phenomenon. It set the tone for a whole generation. To watch or not to watch, that is not the question. Rather than being a review, this is a look back at what makes Huan Zhu Ge Ge so special to so many.

The theme is that family is more than just blood relations. Sworn sisters Xiao Yan Zi and Zi Wei showed us that. Zi Wei was willing to give up her father and her royal status to protect Xiao Yan Zi. Xiao Yan Wei was willing to give up her life so that Zi Wei can be with the man she loved. These two were sismance before sismance was even a word. Vicky Zhao and Ruby Lin have the kind of easiness only real-life friends could have, despite the rumors otherwise. Their closeness was not faked, simply because I don’t think Ruby was that deep of an actress. The director was smart enough let it play out naturally (he even kept the scene where Ruby gave Vicky an adorable peck on the cheek).

This show would not be what it is without Zhang Tie Lin’s multi-layered portrayal of emperor Qian Long. His love for both of his daughters was obvious, although it was tinged with guilt, regret, exasperation, and even a little bit of pride/egoism. The highlight of the series was his confused feelings towards Zi Wei, who he was drawn to but didn’t realize was his real daughter. The tension was so thick in those scenes you could cut it with a knife. It was daring on a level you don’t see in most Asian dramas.

A great thing about the writing was that Xiao Yan Zi and Zi Wei weren’t always helpless and dependent on the men. Zi Wei may be frail but was courageous when it counted. Xiao Yan Zi was ill-educated but had a lot of street smarts and common sense. It was her quick thinking that saved everyone in the end.

Famed writer Qiong Yao was never able to replicate the success of this show. I think it’s partly because she didn’t really understand what made the show resonate with viewers. It was not just because of the romance. Yes, the romance here was very beautifully done. The key was not to overdo it and not let it overshadow the main plot. The relationship between Zi Wei and Er Kang moved the plot forward instead of dragging it out. Xiao Yan Zi and Yong Qi’s love was forbidden and restrained enough to leave you wanting more.

As wonderful as this show is, it sets the industry back for about a decade. It made people think that good acting was opening your eyes really, really wide and looking as cute as possible. Every other actress wanted to be the next Xiao Yan Zi.