‘The On1y One’ Netflix Series Review - A Brave Attempt

This Chinese drama is undeniably bold, stepping into the complex terrain of family dynamics, identity, and unexpected relationships. If you’ve seen *Call Me By Your Name*, you might pick up on similar thematic threads of unspoken emotions, self-discovery, and the boundaries of connection. But for those who are still unsure, let’s dive into the details of this intriguing series.

The story introduces us to two high school boys—Sheng Wang and Jiang Tian—who, through an unforeseen twist of fate, suddenly become stepbrothers. Their lives are thrown together in an abrupt and disorienting way, forcing them to navigate not only the difficulties of adolescence but also the complexities of a new family structure.

Sheng Wang is the quieter of the two, a reserved and soft-spoken young man whose calm demeanor makes him seem almost delicate. He’s the type of person who avoids conflict, choosing politeness and peace whenever possible. In stark contrast, Jiang Tian is fiery, moody, and unpredictable—a classic "angry young man" whose internal struggles manifest as outward defiance and aggression.

From their very first encounter, it’s clear these two boys are as different as night and day. They share a brief and somewhat awkward moment at school, but it’s only when Sheng Wang returns home that the real shock hits—Jiang Tian is now his stepbrother. The realization that they are no longer just classmates but bound by family sets up a palpable tension that will only grow more complex.

Sheng Wang, in his quiet way, tries to reach out to Jiang Tian. He extends the hand of friendship, trying to bridge the divide between them, hoping to build a connection amidst the confusion of their new reality. But every attempt is met with rejection. Jiang Tian remains distant, seemingly uninterested in forming any kind of bond with his new stepbrother. His anger and defensiveness become walls that Sheng Wang, despite his efforts, cannot break through.

Yet, the drama refuses to settle into predictability. Just when it seems like their relationship will remain forever strained, an unexpected twist occurs at school. During a game, Sheng Wang is dared to kiss Jiang Tian—a challenge that shocks both of them. Sheng Wang, although hesitant, follows through with the dare, leaning in to kiss his stepbrother. The moment is fraught with tension, confusion, and perhaps something deeper that neither of them can fully comprehend.

Despite Jiang Tian’s usual fiery nature, he doesn’t respond as expected. He doesn’t lash out or push Sheng Wang away, nor does he reciprocate the kiss. Instead, he stands there, his silence leaving an open question about what this moment truly means for both of them. Sheng Wang is left bewildered, and the audience is pulled deeper into the emotional complexity of the story.

At its core, this drama explores the fragile line between family and something more. It raises questions about identity, emotional boundaries, and the unexpected ways in which relationships can evolve. Will Sheng Wang and Jiang Tian remain trapped in their respective emotional worlds, or will they find a way to connect beyond the labels of stepbrothers and classmates? The show promises to explore these nuanced dynamics, taking viewers on an emotional journey that defies easy answers and challenges conventional understandings.

Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times