The reviews got it right. For 36 episodes (which should have been more, so the ending didn't have to be so rushed) we shared the lives of 5 children who held on to the only thing in their lives that were true - each other (most especially their eldest brother). Taking into consideration the era, the culture, the changing times, new inventions - this production was so well done!

The performance of the actors was magnificent, each and every one of them. However, the three actors who truly outdid themselves were Bai Yu, Liu Jun, and Song Zu Er. Bai Yu was definitely the star of this production - but when an actor can make you despise them in the role they play or evoke so much emotion you feel like you know the character, that is great acting. With that in mind, I have to give the biggest credit of all to the child actors who portrayed the four main siblings as children. Their performances were stellar, and they each have great promise. It was them who drew me into the story to begin with, hungry to see how they grew up, how they managed, and who their characters became.

The OST was beautiful. As expected, Zhou Shen's opening song was haunting and beautiful. All the musical score was excellently placed and so appropriate.

There are enough reviews with recaps and analyses. I just cannot emphasize enough what a great production this was. The writing, directing, ACTING, music, cinematography, everything. This series rates so much more than a mere 10!