Exclusive Fairytale
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| Exclusive Fairytale | |
|---|---|
| Chinese | 独家童话 |
| Genre | |
| Based on | Once We Come Across Love (兔子压倒窝边草) by Yi Jin |
| Directed by | Gong Yushi |
| Starring | |
| Country of origin | China |
| Original language | Mandarin |
| No. of seasons | 1 |
| No. of episodes | 24 |
| Production | |
| Running time | 35–45 minutes |
| Production companies |
|
| Original release | |
| Network | iQIYI |
| Release | July 27, 2023 |
Exclusive Fairytale (Chinese: 独家童话; pinyin: Dújiā Tónghuà) is a 2023 Chinese television drama starring Wen Junhui, a member of the South Korean boy group Seventeen, and Zhang Miaoyi. The series is adapted from the popular youth web novel Once We Come Across Love (兔子压倒窝边草) by Yi Jin.[1] It premiered on iQIYI on July 27, 2023, with all episodes released simultaneously for VIP members.
Synopsis
[edit]The story follows the lifelong bond between Ling Chao (Wen Junhui) and Xiao Tu (Zhang Miaoyi). Born just minutes apart, the two have been inseparable since birth, growing up as neighbors and childhood friends.
Ling Chao is a highly intelligent, sensitive, and independent overachiever who is often perceived as cold. In contrast, Xiao Tu is a carefree, energetic, and slightly dense girl who struggles with academics but excels in martial arts. Despite their opposite personalities, Ling Chao has harbored a deep-seated love for Xiao Tu since childhood, though he masks it with playful teasing. As they transition from high school to university, their relationship evolves from sibling-like bickering into a mature romance as they navigate career pressures and external rivals.[2]
Cast
[edit]Main
[edit]- Wen Junhui as Ling Chao: A genius student who is deeply devoted to Xiao Tu. He excels in technology and computer science.
- Zhang Miaoyi as Xiao Tu: A bubbly and loyal girl who is often oblivious to Ling Chao's romantic feelings.
Supporting
[edit]- Xiong Aobo as Yin Zihan: A rival student who initially challenges Ling Chao but eventually becomes a friend.
- Cheryn Lin as Xu Ling: Xiao Tu's best friend and confidante.
- Hao Zhujia as Jiang Juanjuan: Xiao Tu's supportive mother.
- Zhao Lu as Ling Yue: Ling Chao's father.
Production
[edit]Casting and Development
[edit]The project gained significant international attention due to the casting of Wen Junhui, marking his return to acting in a lead role in China. The series was produced by iQIYI in collaboration with Sanfu Interactive Entertainment, targeting the "sweet pet" (youth romance) market segment.[3]
Filming
[edit]Principal photography took place in Wuxi, China. Filming began in late 2021 and concluded in early 2022. The production design was noted for its nostalgic depiction of Chinese school life and the cozy domestic atmosphere of the characters' neighboring homes.[4]
Soundtrack
[edit]The soundtrack features songs that emphasize the themes of youth and first love.
| No. | Title | Artist | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Exclusive Fairytale" (Opening Theme) | Wen Junhui | 3:42 |
| 2. | "Come to Me" | Zhang Miaoyi | 3:15 |
| 3. | "Perfect Source" | Various Artists | 4:02 |
Reception
[edit]The drama was a commercial success for iQIYI, reaching a popularity index of over 7,000 on the platform within days of its release. It trended globally on Twitter (X) in several countries, including Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines, largely due to the global fanbase of Seventeen.[5] Critics praised the chemistry between Wen and Zhang, noting that the series successfully balanced humor with emotional growth.[6]
References
[edit]- ^ "Seventeen's Jun and Zhang Miaoyi to star in new youth romance drama". NME. 24 July 2023.
- ^ "Exclusive Fairytale: A sweet childhood friends-to-lovers story". iQIYI. Retrieved 8 January 2026.
- ^ "iQIYI Highlights Global Content for 2023". Variety. 15 May 2023.
- ^ "Exclusive Fairytale wraps production in Wuxi". China Entertainment News. 15 January 2022.
- ^ "Exclusive Fairytale tops iQIYI Global Charts". South China Morning Post. 5 August 2023.
- ^ "Review: Why Exclusive Fairytale is the must-watch youth drama of the summer". Soompi. 10 August 2023.
External links
[edit]- Official website
- Exclusive Fairytale at IMDb
- Exclusive Fairytale at Douban (in Chinese)