Drama Digest
Gentlemen of East 8th is a 2022 Chinese drama, that tells the story of four men: Tong Yu, Guo Chong, Li Jiesen, and Xiang Xiaofei. They are close friends since university. Tong is an artificial intelligence engineer, Guo Chong is a university lecturer, Xiang Xiaofei is a manager of a branded shop and Li Jiesen is a chef of a western restaurant They all are well settled and happy with their professions but all of them face difficulties in their lives.
The Feel-Good Part
This is a pleasant show that shows us the introspective view of people in their mid-age. It gave us more exploration of human emotions and shows the growth and character development of all four men. They learn and make mistakes throughout their daily life and hence gain maturity from it. This drama is male-centric which shows the hardships of settled men. It also shows the friendship and support that they maintained since their university life. The cinematography and production of the show are perfect.
The Disappointing Factor
This drama is based on the viewer’s perspective of watching. Some viewers have enjoyed it to the core while it has disgusted others. They do not approve of the behaviors in the male society and hence disapprove of this show. Some scenes have cringe monologues and cliches which are disliked by many people.
In-Depth Analysis
As their lives go on, Tong Yu is having difficulties in research and development, Guo Chong has no dedication to his stable job anymore, Li Jiesen is also facing problems in his job and even Xiang Xiaofei has his struggles with money and ideals. Despite problems in their career, they also face troubles in their love life. Tong Tu is dating his company’s manager Xu Duo and they have many sweet and bitter days. Gu Chong is dating a graduate lady named Ai Mi. Their relationship is complicated and they are not sure if they are distant or close. Li Jiesen is not yet successful in his love life. He is pursuing a weibo author, Yue Wo Qian. While Xiangfei and a businesswoman named Liu Sheng Nan get married. All four middle-aged men face a crisis in their life and offer each other a shoulder. In the end, all of them decide to love their life as it is and act maturely in tough situations.
Star Power
The four main characters played by Zhang Han, Du Chun, Jing Chao, and Huang You Ming did a remarkable job with their performances. Yet some viewers may have disliked them.
Overall Opinion
This show is completely based on one’s perspective or thinking of how they view the male society. For many, it can be misogynistic, but others might as well enjoy it. Overall, it is an excellent show with great character development and life lessons.
