If you think love starts with external factors like looks or status, the drama Boss & Me (杉杉来了) will change your mind. Here, love begins with blood type and lunch boxes. This 2014 Chinese rom-com, starring Zhao Liying and Hans Zhang, is based on a novel by Gu Man and directed by Liu Junjie. It tells the story of a naive office worker who is fed by her stern boss every day, leading to a heartwarming relationship.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
The story follows Xue Shanshan (played by Zhao Liying), a girl from the countryside who lands a job at a giant corporation in Shanghai. Despite her unremarkable profile, she is hired because she has AB Rh- blood type, a rare type that the company values highly. The CEO's younger brother, Feng Teng (played by Hans Zhang), has a sister with the same blood type who needs a transfusion during a C-section. Shanshan is called in to donate blood in the middle of the night, and from then on, her life changes.
To repay Shanshan for saving his sister's life, Feng Teng has his family chef prepare lunch for her every day. As a result, Shanshan, who was originally thin, gradually gains weight, giving the drama its title. Their relationship evolves from employer-employee to lunch buddies, and eventually into a warm romance. However, they face obstacles from those around them and their different social statuses. The drama unfolds at a slow, comfortable pace, focusing on romance and the comedy arising from the heroine's innocence.
Acting and Characters
The heart of this drama lies in Zhao Liying's performance as Xue Shanshan. She perfectly portrays innocence, kindness, and natural cuteness. Although the character can seem a bit 'too naive' at times, Zhao Liying makes Shanshan endearing rather than annoying. Meanwhile, Hans Zhang as Feng Teng effectively shows a stern young man who gradually softens. Their chemistry is excellent, especially in scenes where he takes care of her by feeding her, making viewers invested in their love.
Supporting actors like Cheng Yuanli as Yuan Lishu, a close friend who secretly loves the heroine, and Huang Youming as Zheng Qi, the male lead's friend, add depth to the story. Although some characters follow typical tropes, everyone delivers natural performances.
Direction, Visuals, and Music
The drama is directed by Liu Junjie, who also worked on 'Love O2O'. His storytelling style emphasizes tenderness and warmth. The visuals are beautiful, typical of sweet Chinese romances, with bright, cheerful tones. Scenes in the office and the male lead's home are luxurious but not over-the-top. The background music enhances the mood, especially the opening and ending songs, which evoke happiness.
Although the drama doesn't rely on special effects or standout cinematography, it effectively creates the romantic atmosphere viewers seek. The editing is smooth, with no dragging parts. While some episodes focus a bit too much on the heroine's cuteness, it doesn't detract from the overall enjoyment.
Editorial Analysis
Boss & Me is a drama that's more 'easy to watch' than 'intense'. The plot isn't complicated or full of twists, but its charm lies in the pure sweetness of the main characters and their interactions. It makes us reminisce about simple love without drama or extreme villains. Just having lunch together every day is enough to make your heart swell.
However, the drama follows the classic 'rich man, poor woman' formula, and there are scenes where the male lead seems a bit 'jealous' and 'possessive', which may not sit well with modern viewers who prefer equality. But it's undeniable that this is part of the charm of older Chinese dramas that still have a loyal fanbase. Additionally, the focus on 'blood type' as a starting point for love is unique and memorable.
Verdict
Boss & Me is a drama for those who want something light and heartwarming, perfect for a relaxing holiday with tea and snacks. Although it's not deep or groundbreaking, the leads' charm and warm atmosphere will make you smile through every episode.
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👍 Pros
- +Excellent chemistry between the leads, especially Zhao Liying's natural cuteness
- +Lighthearted plot that is relaxing and stress-free
- +Beautiful soundtrack that fits the drama's atmosphere
👎 Cons
- −Plot is quite simple and formulaic, may not be challenging
- −Heroine is sometimes unrealistically naive
- −Male lead's jealousy may seem inappropriate to younger viewers
Top Cast
FAQ
The drama has a total of 33 episodes, ending in one season.
It is based on a novel by Gu Man titled 'Shan Shan Comes to Eat'.
It is available on Netflix, iQIYI, and Viki with Thai subtitles.
If you like sweet rom-coms without heavy drama, this drama is perfect, especially for fans of Zhao Liying.
