While Tony's acting is solid, the hardest role to play well is that of the Emperor. The Kangxi gradually grows and changes throughout the series from an immature boy to a great Emperor; balancing friendship, mercy, and ruthlessness to protect the dynasty and in a way the subjugated Chinese people. Very skillfully done by Andy Lau, especially at such a young age without extensive acting experience ...
While Tony's acting is solid, the hardest role to play well is that of the Emperor. The Kangxi gradually grows and changes throughout the series from an immature boy to a great Emperor; balancing friendship, mercy, and ruthlessness to protect the dynasty and in a way the subjugated Chinese people. Very skillfully done by Andy Lau, especially at such a young age without extensive acting experience (he's a waiter in a lot the restaurant scenes in the other TVB series, kind of funny to notice that).
The supporting cast is filled with veteran actors who play their roles straight without over acting. There are some flaws particularly with the actresses of the some of the less prominent wives (all but two), and reusing actors (like the dead officer in first episode or two ends up as one of those super Shaolin monks).
A lot of it had to do with a great original story, but the execution was well done as well.
Complex and engaging storyline, character development, great casting, great chemistry between the two main characters, funny dialog, strong supporting characters throughout with their own goals and motivations all make for one of TVB's best series.
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It wont hurt. 
