The period mystery drama Ding Feng Bo (《定风波》) recently premiered, initially attracting attention thanks to its genre and the publicity surrounding director Yu Zheng’s contract dispute with Zhao Lusi. However, within just two days of its release, audience feedback has turned negative. Many viewers have reportedly dropped the show, citing similar reasons: implausible plot setups, unconvincing logic in the investigation sequences, and underwhelming performances from the leads.
The early episodes feature a series of unusual murders, and while the suspenseful tone is initially promising, the show relies heavily on so-called “special materials” to explain key plot points—many of which lack credibility. The investigations are largely driven by the male lead’s narration and recollection, rather than unfolding through visible clues or on-screen deduction, leaving viewers feeling detached from the story. Performances from the main actors, Wang Xingyue and Xiang Hanzhi, have also come under criticism. Both are seen as lacking emotional depth, and their on-screen chemistry is notably weak, further distancing the audience from the characters.
While Ding Feng Bo (《定风波》) had the potential to stand out with its mystery-driven narrative, the lack of solid storytelling and character development has hindered its reception. Unless the series significantly improves in later episodes, it may struggle to recover its reputation or maintain viewer interest.
