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{year}=2024 {episode}=36.END {type}=TV {completed}
Review: In
a Class of Her Own (2020)
In a Class of Her Own (Chinese: 漂亮书生)
is a 2020 Chinese historical romance drama that reimagines the popular Korean
drama Sungkyunkwan Scandal within a Chinese setting. Starring Ju Jingyi
and Song Weilong, this drama blends gender-bending hijinks, scholarly
rivalries, friendship, and a slow-burn romance, all framed within the elegant
aesthetics of a historical Chinese academy. Though the series has its share of
clichés, it manages to captivate with its charming cast, pleasing visuals, and
lighthearted tone.
Plot
Summary
The story follows Xue Wenxi (played by Ju Jingyi), a poor
but intelligent young woman who disguises herself as a man to work and survive.
Her calligraphy skills and quick wit catch the attention of Feng Chengjun (Song
Weilong), the son of a prime minister and a top scholar at the prestigious Yun
Shang Academy. Feng, impressed by Wenxi’s talent, secretly arranges for her to
receive a scholarship and attend the academy — but under the guise of being a
male student.
Now forced to maintain her disguise, Wenxi must navigate the
challenges of living in an all-male environment. Along the way, she becomes
part of the academy’s famous "Four Talents," forming a tight bond
with Feng Chengjun, the mischievous Yu Lexuan (Bi Wenjun), and the stoic Lei
Zexin (Wang Ruichang). Romantic tension gradually brews between Wenxi and Feng,
but her secret identity threatens not only her education but also her budding
relationships.
Strengths
1. Charming Cast and Performances
Ju Jingyi delivers a believable and endearing performance as
Xue Wenxi. While her portrayal leans more on the delicate and soft-spoken side
— which somewhat challenges the believability of her male disguise — her
expressiveness and chemistry with her co-stars carry much of the emotional
weight. Ju Jingyi, with her elegant appearance and gentle mannerisms, brings a
nuanced vulnerability to Wenxi’s character, especially as the stakes heighten
with each episode.
Song Weilong, as the aloof yet deeply principled Feng
Chengjun, provides a strong contrast. He balances restraint with passion, his
character slowly revealing warmth and affection as he uncovers Wenxi’s true
identity. Their on-screen chemistry is gentle rather than fiery — fitting for a
romance built on mutual respect, admiration, and deepening friendship.
The supporting cast also shines, particularly Bi Wenjun’s
playful Yu Lexuan, who adds levity and heart. Wang Ruichang’s portrayal of Lei
Zexin brings depth to a stoic figure whose silence hides emotional complexity.
2. Production Value and Visuals
The drama’s visual presentation is one of its key strengths.
From the serene courtyards of the Yun Shang Academy to the elaborate costumes
and sets, the show successfully immerses the viewer in a refined historical
world. The cinematography is soft and elegant, using pastel color palettes,
natural lighting, and symmetrical compositions that reflect the scholarly
atmosphere of the setting.
The costume design also deserves mention. Ju Jingyi's
gender-bending attire is tastefully executed, with her outfits carefully
balancing the masculine and feminine — never too bold to be unbelievable, yet
not too plain to be unremarkable.
3. Wholesome Themes
At its core, In a Class of Her Own is a drama about
friendship, equality, and courage. The relationships between the Four Talents
are refreshingly non-toxic and supportive. Each character grows through their
interactions with one another, and the drama emphasizes moral integrity,
loyalty, and the pursuit of knowledge over political ambition or vengeance — a
rare message in period dramas often driven by darker themes.
Xue Wenxi’s journey, in particular, is an empowering one.
She fights against societal norms, proving herself in a male-dominated
institution while keeping her true identity hidden. Her character’s
perseverance and cleverness are a consistent inspiration throughout the series.
Weaknesses
1. Pacing and Length
At 36 episodes, the drama sometimes suffers from slow
pacing. Certain subplots — such as the political maneuverings in the court or
drawn-out love triangles — feel like filler and detract from the central
storyline. The middle portion of the series, in particular, lingers too long on
repetitive emotional beats or unnecessary misunderstandings.
The drama might have benefitted from tighter editing and a
30-episode format to maintain momentum.
2. Limited Conflict and Low Stakes
While In a Class of Her Own leans into its feel-good,
lighthearted nature, the lack of significant conflict reduces its tension. Much
of the drama is spent on academic challenges, comedic misunderstandings, and
slow-burn romantic tension. For viewers seeking a more intense or plot-driven
experience, the show may feel underwhelming.
Moreover, the stakes surrounding Wenxi’s identity being
discovered are rarely handled with true urgency. Although the potential
consequences are serious, the plot often resolves these situations with
convenient timing or mild repercussions, which can make the overall drama feel
low-impact.
3. Gender Disguise Believability
This is a common critique of cross-dressing dramas, but it’s
especially noticeable here. Ju Jingyi's feminine features and mannerisms are
rarely convincing as male, and yet the other characters remain oblivious for
far longer than seems realistic. This demands a significant suspension of
disbelief from the audience, and for some viewers, it may detract from the
immersion.
Final
Verdict
In a Class of Her Own is a heartwarming, visually
stunning drama that succeeds more as a character-driven story than a plot-heavy
one. It thrives on its charming ensemble, soft romance, and themes of
friendship and perseverance. While it doesn't break new ground in the historical
romance genre, it offers a delightful escape with low angst and plenty of sweet
moments.
Fans of gender-bending dramas, school settings, and
slow-burn romances will find much to enjoy here. However, those looking for
high-stakes drama or intense historical intrigue may find it too light.
In a saturated field of historical Chinese dramas, In a
Class of Her Own may not be revolutionary, but it certainly earns a place
as a comforting and enjoyable watch.
Rating:
7.5/10