Oh My General [OmU]

Oh My General captivates viewers with its unique blend of romance, historical drama, and comedy, expertly spun into a compelling narrative. Released in 2017 and offered by Amazon Addon, this Chinese drama is sure to provoke thought, laughter, and tears from all who venture into its engaging world.

The backdrop of Oh My General is the Song Dynasty, an era rich in culture, marked by its vibrant artistry, enigmatic political intrigue, and complex social conventions. Throughout the 60 episodes, viewers are invited to travel back in time and navigate the captivating landscape of 10th century China with our protagonists. From opulent imperial banquets to fierce battlefield clashes, the series provides a visually stunning portrayal that is sure to mesmerize.

The storyline challenges societal norms by featuring a strong, independent, and fierce woman, General Ye Zhao, as the lead character. General Ye Zhao is a remarkable fighter known for her leadership and martial skills that have won countless battles. Her reputation precedes her, leading everyone in the kingdom to admire her. However, her remarkable feats on the battlefield make finding a husband quite challenging, as men are intimidated by her prowess. This paints an intricate image of a powerful woman who excels in a typically masculine role, yet is bound by the societal norms of her time.

The drama unfolds when General Ye Zhao is matched with the scholarly and effeminate Zhao Yujin, the Prince of Nanping, the polar opposite of the valiant General Ye. A mix of duty, palace politics, and societal norms, their unlikely match leads to a union of opposites. Zhao Yujin, the epitome of grace and elegance, finds himself out of his depths as he tries to adapt to a life intertwined with war strategies and battlefield bravado. This balancing act between General Ye’s military mandate and Zhao Yujin’s royal responsibilities forms the crux of the show. Their conflicting personality traits and the situational comedy arising from it serve to lighten the plot, making the episodes both delightful and engaging.

Yet, beyond the laughs, the series explores deeper themes. It examines attitudes towards gender norms in a society that's usually strictly bound by them. General Ye and Zhao Yujin, by their very nature, challenge and subvert these expectations, offering a progressive narrative in a historical era setting. It is a refreshing portrayal that aids in stirring up thought-provoking questions.

The rich, nuanced characters in Oh My General are brought to life through exceptional performances by the actors. Sandra Ma as General Ye Zhao and Peter Sheng as Zhao Yujin give standout performances that aptly capture the complexity and charm of their characters. The progression of their relationship is beautifully portrayed, with an equal mix of rivalry, respect, and affection that deepens as the series progresses, keeping viewers hooked to their screens.

Complementing the stellar performances and the engaging plot are the top-notch production values. Detailed and grand sets, meticulously designed costumes, and beautiful cinematography collectively serve to capture the essence of the Song Dynasty era, creating a believable and mesmerizing experience for viewers.

Oh My General combines a multitude of elements to deliver a series that is both entertaining and inspiring. The compelling narrative, dynamic characters, intriguing historical backdrop, and striking visuals seamlessly merge to create an immersive viewing experience. The series is a must-watch for fans of historical drama, romance, and comedy, and for all who have an appetite for character-driven stories that challenge societal norms. With its 60-episode run, Oh My General assures a long-lasting, engaging watch that enchants and entertains in equal measure.