Netflix’s latest Chinese-language romantic comedy series, « I am Married… But! », takes a fresh look at the realities of married life, challenging the traditional notion of « happily ever after ». The 12-episode series, which premiered today, offers viewers a humorous yet thought-provoking exploration of the complexities that arise after the wedding bells stop ringing.
Directed by Li Nien-hsiu, the show stars Alice Ko as Lin I-ling and Jasper Liu as Zeng Xue-you, a couple whose fairytale romance takes an unexpected turn post-marriage. The series wastes no time in diving into the nitty-gritty of married life, bypassing the honeymoon phase to focus on the challenges that emerge when the rose-tinted glasses come off.
I-ling, who has been living with her in-laws for three years, finds herself trapped in a cycle of contemplating divorce every week. Her husband, Xue-you, is portrayed as a « mummy’s boy, » adding another layer of complexity to their relationship. The show doesn’t shy away from depicting the less glamorous aspects of marriage, from endless chores to the irritation of a partner’s deafening snores.
As I-ling grapples with her marital frustrations, the plot thickens with the introduction of two potential romantic interests. Tseng Jing-hua plays Liu Wen-chieh, a charming pharmacist who catches I-ling’s eye, while Fu Meng-po appears as Zhang Ren-wei, I-ling’s former college boyfriend turned colleague. These characters serve to complicate I-ling’s emotional landscape, raising questions about fidelity and the nature of long-term commitment.
The series also explores the male perspective on marital challenges. Xue-you’s character arc involves an encounter with Chen Hsiao-lu, a single mother whose vulnerability stirs protective instincts and potentially more complicated feelings.
Producer Vita Huang emphasizes the show’s commitment to authenticity, noting that some viewers who’ve seen snippets of the series joked about surveillance cameras being installed in their homes. This relatability factor is likely to resonate with married couples who see their own experiences reflected on screen.
« I am Married… But! » doesn’t aim to provide easy answers to the challenges of matrimony. Instead, it offers a « woke » take on romantic storytelling, as described by director Li Nien-hsiu. The series invites viewers to consider whether love can endure when the fairy tale facade fades away, revealing the sometimes messy reality underneath.
As streaming platforms continue to diversify their content offerings, « I am Married… But! » represents Netflix’s foray into more nuanced portrayals of relationships. By blending humor with honest depictions of marital struggles, the show aims to both entertain and provoke thought about the nature of modern marriages.
For viewers looking for a romantic comedy that goes beyond the typical « boy meets girl » narrative, « I am Married… But! » promises a fresh perspective on love, commitment, and the ongoing work of building a life together. As the characters navigate their complicated relationships, audiences may find themselves reflecting on their own experiences and expectations of married life.
Where to Watch « I am Married… But! »
The Cast
Ko Shu-Chin
Fu Meng-po
Tseng Jing-hua
Aining Yao
Ting Yi Chu
Xie Yi-lin
Shu-Han Liang
