I have been binge watching chinese dramas of late focusing on love, romance and hardship faced during China republican era of 1912-1949. There are many things that I find intriguing of life and cultures during that time. Even the clothes, fashion and styles are interesting to watch. The actor that really portray this era well to me is Harwick Lau. I have been binge watching his dramas of late and I picked this drama Mother Wife because of it's interesting title. From what I have read, male children from rich families in that era were often betrothed at a young age (some even from babies) for business purpose, to ensure obedient daughter-in-laws, maintain friendships and lots more. Therefore, roles of girls/young ladies become demeaning and powerless as they are being forced into loveless marriages.

Crystal Zhang Yu Yuan, veteran of bitter sweet dramas plays the doomed Qiu Ju. Married off at 18 to 8 years old Yao Zong (played by the cute Leo Wu). His mother was dying, and wanted a Wife who also will carry the role of a Mother to her son, protecting his position and wealth from her husband's devious second wife. Qiu Ju had to endeavor a lot of torture, pain and hardship until she found happiness at 80 years old!!! Truly a woman of substance and Crystal Zhang was perfect in her role.

Harwick was also very good in depicting Yao Zong as a bitter, revengeful, ambitious young adult who went through extremes to get what he wants. He made the role really hateful and yet at times he could make us feel his warmth and love for Qiu Ju. A man caught in his own devious plans and in the end forced to walk that route of guilt and regret.

Wow, all 38 episodes of a full on drama worth watching even though it was released in 2009. The drama is not perfect and can get really angsty. However, I am just glad that I watched something a little different from the norm where the overall entertainment value is at 8 for me.