- Drama Title: Filter
- Also Known As: 滤镜, Filtro , Lu Jing , Lv Jing , Фильтр
- Director: Chen Yue Jin
- Cast: Tan Jian Ci, Li Lan Di
- Screenwriter: Tong Hua
- Genres: Comedy, Romance, Fantasy
- Episodes: 32
- Date of Release: February 24, 2025
- Original Network: Tencent Video
- Where to Watch: Netflix, WeTV, Tencent Video, Viki
Dear readers… raise your hand if you’ve ever smoothed your skin just a little too much before posting a selfie. No shame, we’ve all been there. These days, filters are like digital makeup. Who needs to spend hours dabbing concealer or layering on eleven steps of skincare every night, when one tap can give you glass skin, a sculpted jawline, and anime-sized eyes?
But, what if you could go beyond filters? What if you could literally change yourself into someone else… or maybe even an alpaca? Curious? Good! Because I’m about to dive into this quirky, fun, and thought-provoking drama. No filters here, just the Fiter Chinese drama review. Happy reading!
Filter Chinese Drama Synopsis
Su Cheng Cheng is just an ordinary young woman. She currently unemployed and freshly rejected from a job interview solely because of her looks. As if that wasn’t enough, she’s humiliated at her high school reunion right in front of her longtime crush.
Devastated and discouraged, Su Cheng Cheng lamenting about her unattractive appearance and how she wanted to be beautiful too.
Miraculously, she stumbles upon a high-tech bracelet that allows her to completely transform her appearance. With this power on her wrist, Su Cheng Cheng adopts multiple personas and uses her new looks to help others in need.
Along the way, she captures the heart of Tang Qi, a promising young man with troubled eyes. And because of Su Cheng Cheng’s personas, he suffered from consecutive heartbreaks. Tang Qi doesn’t realize that the girl who keeps stealing his heart is the same one standing quietly beside him in her real form. Will Su Cheng Cheng find the courage to reveal her true identity? And when all the filters come off, can love still to bloom without deception?
Filter Chinese Drama Review
Have you ever watched the 2017 K-drama Strong Woman Do Bong Soon? You can find it on Netflix, Apple TV, Prime Video, or Disney+. It’s a charming story about a petite and adorable young woman who’s incredibly strong. I was so impressed by that drama that even now, I often find myself watching snippets of it on YouTube. And when I watched the first episode of Filter, it instantly reminded me of Do Bong Soon.
In Strong Woman Do Bong Soon, the heroine has to hide her strength because using it for personal gain comes with consequences.
Similarly, Su Cheng Cheng, the main female lead of Filter, also hides her “strength”. But in her case, she hid her ability and pretended to be weak because she didn’t want Tang Qi, the male lead, to see her as a weirdo. Her insecurity runs deep. To her, being unattractive and unemployed is already bad enough. But being unattractive, jobless, and only having “unusual strength” as her defining trait feels unbearable.
Watching a character grapple with self-worth issues like this hit hard. Su Cheng Cheng actually has a lot of good qualities, but she can’t see them. That reflects something we often experience in real life. People around us may see our strengths clearly, while we struggle to believe in them ourselves.
Filter is not just a light comedy. It’s a drama packed with positive messages. The romance is sweet and slow-burn, thanks to Su Cheng Cheng’s many personas and Tang Qi’s adorably oblivious nature when it comes to love. The comedy, though, is the part that truly hooked me.
I laughed out loud when Su Cheng Cheng discovered the 3D printing function on her bracelet and transformed it into all kinds of things: a 2D Sun Wukong (yes, 2D!), an alpaca, a bronze statue, a painting, and even a cardboard box. 😂
Another fun thing: Filter playfully advertises the drama Lost You Forever. This happened because it was Tan Jian Ci and Wang Hong Yi’s drama and the original creator of Lost You Forever also happened to be Filter’s screenwriter. You’ll spot Tan Jian Ci’s figurine in several scenes, and the title even gets a few name-drops in dialogue.
One more thing I love about this drama is the soundtrack. I rarely enjoy C-drama OSTs. Music-wise, I usually prefer Western or Korean songs. But Filter surprised me. It has some great tracks. My two favorites are “Up and Down” by Duan Ao Juan, which plays during Su Cheng Cheng and Tang Qi’s first meeting, and the adorably catchy “Alpaca Song” by Tan Jian Ci himself.
Tang Qi and Su Cheng Cheng are no ordinary leads. Both are flawed and very human. The drama makes no attempt to idealize them. If you prefer perfect characters, Filter might not be your cup of tea. But if you like heartfelt, quirky stories with down-to-earth leads, it’s definitely worth a watch.
The Story – Not Your Average Cinderella (She’s Stronger)
Filter has a surprisingly good pace. You won’t get bored because the story is full of surprises and lighthearted twists. But what truly makes it special is its strong, positive core message.
Filter is a story of self-acceptance, told through Su Cheng Cheng’s journey of discovering her worth. The drama gently reminds us that your opinion about yourself is what truly matters. People may judge, label, or dismiss you. But their opinions don’t define your value.
As Antoine de Saint-Exupéry once said, “What is essential is invisible to the eye.” Real beauty lies in our character, our compassion, and our uniqueness. To accept yourself means to embrace both your strengths and flaws, with love and honesty.
Su Cheng Cheng comes from a simple but harmonious family. Her parents love her and support her. But despite this, she still battles insecurities. Why? Because society’s standards shaped her self-worth. In her world, a woman is expected to have a proportional body, flawless skin, and an impeccable fashion sense.
Her older sister, Su Qin Li, embodies all those traits. Growing up in the shadow of such a “perfect” sibling, Su Cheng Cheng likely endured endless comparisons from relatives, neighbors, or classmates. Those small comparisons grew into big doubts over time.
The first episode powerfully highlights how society’s judgment hurt Su Cheng Cheng. She applies for a marketing job but is dismissed before the interview even begins. Why? Because she doesn’t fit the “ideal” image: she’s not tall, not stylish, not “impressive.” The interviewer even says, “Everything with you is wrong.” That moment crushed her.
But Su Cheng Cheng didn’t give up. In a satisfying scene later on, she delivers the perfect retaliation to the interviewers.
Despite her self-doubt, Su Cheng Cheng’s personality shines. I love her character because she is warm, kind, and always willing to help others. She never acts arrogantly and is an incredibly supportive friend. Helping others comes naturally to her. It’s just who she is. That’s why Filter is not just a cute fantasy; it’s a drama with substance. It’s about learning to love yourself beyond the filters and appearances.
Tang Qi falls for Su Cheng Cheng not because of how she looks or how clever she is. But because of her sincerity and warmth. Ironically, he never realizes that the many personas he loves are all the same woman standing beside him. That’s the bittersweet charm of this drama.
Filter was written by Tong Hua, who also created Lost You Forever drama, Scarlet Heart (adapted into the 2016 K-drama Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo. This is a beautiful but heartbreaking drama), and The Starry Night, The Starry Sea. She brings her signature warmth and layered character development to this series, too.
The supporting characters in Filter are not just fillers. Each of them has their own charm and importance. I especially liked the story between Gu Yu and Lin Yuan. It was sweet and engaging. And Su Qin Li, who at first seems like the cold, arrogant sister, eventually shows her caring side. Yes, she can be annoying (as many siblings are), but when Su Cheng Cheng needs help, Su Qin Li steps up without hesitation. She may act mighty, but deep down, she’s protective jie jie.
Lin Yuan is the best kind of friend. She’s loyal, supportive, and never judges Su Cheng Cheng. When she finds out about the magic bracelet, she doesn’t question it. They celebrate together! That’s the kind of friend everyone needs. Gu Yu, on the other hand, has a quiet charm that sneaks up on you. He and Lin Yuan make such a lovely pair. it’s impossible not to root for them. 😊
In the end, I love Filter not just because it made me laugh, but because it delivered valuable messages wrapped in fantasy and fun. It has a happy ending that filled my “satisfi-meter” to the brim. So yes, I will definitely be rewatching this one.
The Story – Love, Laughter, and a Dash of Chaos
Filter has a strong romantic core, thanks to the undeniable chemistry between Tan Jian Ci and Li Lan Di. Both actors fully embodied their roles, bringing charm and nuance to every scene. I used to know Tan Jian Ci as the cold, powerful Xiang Liu, the nine-headed serpent demon from Lost You Forever. He was ruthless, stoic, and oh yes, he robbed from the rich… and also stole my heart. 😉
But in Filter, Tan Jian Ci transforms completely. As Tang Qi, he plays a stubborn, socially awkward nerd who undeniably handsome and hardworking, but with a cold shell and very few facial expressions early on. Watching him slowly open up and express emotion with just the subtlest twitch of his lips or eyes was truly captivating.
Tang Qi is gifted with a rare eyes condition that make him see more colors than normal people. It makes him a great fit for his job in the R&D department of a cosmetics company. Still, as a character, he’s frustrating. He is judgmental, overly logical, and a bit emotionally constipated.
I often found myself wanting to smack the back of his head! Sometimes I even felt a tiny bit of schadenfreude when things didn’t go his way. Su Cheng Cheng really deserved someone more emotionally available.
Li Lan Di, on the other hand, is known for her expressive acting. Whether as the lively Ye Tan in The Starry Love or the strong-willed An Zhi Que in Angels Fall Sometimes, she always brings depth to her roles. In Filter, she shines again.
As Su Cheng Cheng, she’s vibrant and unrestrained when she was with her best friend Lin Yuan, meek and uncertain around her older sister Su Qing Li, and cautious when interacting with Tang Qi. She truly nails every scene. And yes, she even pulls off a hilarious “stupid human” mutter when she turns into an alpaca. 😁
The romance in Filter is sweet and layered. Su Cheng Cheng has admired Tang Qi since high school, when she saw him as the cool, smart boy with an aloof aura. Meanwhile, Tang Qi remembered her as the overly-strong-trouble-maker-sports-star who looked down on him because he was weak.
Tang Qi completely misunderstood Su Cheng Cheng. He thought she loves to bully fellow students and make fun of him. Although her grades are poor, her friends loves her because she is a kind person.
The second couple, Lin Yuan and Gu Yu, are an absolute charmer. Gu Yu falls for Lin Yuan first, but since she doesn’t trust a playboy, he pretends not to be interested on her. Gu Yu is clever and calculated. He is a logical thinker and a shrewd businessman.
But he never wins against Lin Yuan, whose creativity and unpredictable strategies always throw him off. Their chemistry is evident from their first interaction, and their dynamic is both hilarious and heartwarming.
Filter is packed with laugh-out-loud moments. One of my favorites is when Su Cheng Cheng morphs into a bronze statue. Su Qing Li’s subtle shrug and muttered “Don’t ask me, I know nothing” cracked me up. Lin Yuan’s jaw-drop, followed by Tang Qi’s intrigued face, only made it better.
Then a framed photo comes to life and walks upstairs, only to smack into a wall. Yes, the CGI is hilariously bad, but the actors’ expressions and comic timing make it a standout scene. I’ve rewatched it way too many times and still laugh every time.
There’s depth beneath the comedy, too. The show is full of meaningful lines. They were great for self-reflection or maybe even your next Instagram caption. Here are some for you.
Tang Qi’s important principle: “Honesty is the foundation for a relationship.”
Su Cheng Cheng’s self-reflection: “Everyone has a weakness. But must we overcome all our weaknesses to live better?
Su Qing Li’s gem: “No one is born used to fighting. The first time is always the hardest. But no matter how difficult, it’s easier to rely on yourself than others.”
And for something a bit more savage:
Su Qing Li’s iconic sister insult: “Is your brain just for decoration?”
and
Su Qing Li being a queen: “I inherited all the good genes in our family.”
You know a sibling loves you when their support comes wrapped in sarcasm and glittering superiority. 😂
The Visual – Chaotic Chic Style
The visual design of this drama is absolutely enjoyable. I especially enjoyed the seamless transitions every time Su Cheng Cheng morphed into a different persona. Admittedly, it got a bit over-the-top when she turned into inanimate objects, like a bronze statue or even a tree.
But somehow, I still found it entertaining. The alpaca version? Slightly jarring, yes. But still oddly charming. What truly stood out, though, was the way the show portrayed the world through Tang Qi’s perspective. Everything appeared in black and white, except for Su Cheng Cheng, who was in full color. Those scenes were not only symbolic but also visually stunning. Aesthetically pleasing and emotionally resonant.
The set design also deserves praise. While the office space was fairly standard, I was fascinated by the contrast in home environments. Tang Qi’s house, for instance, was a refreshing change from the typical modern, luxury apartments we often see in dramas. His home was more traditional, featuring a wooden gate and old-fashioned interior.
It was also a little chaotic, with stacks of books on the floor, random photos on the walls, and quirky trinkets scattered everywhere. The dim lighting gave it a moody vibe, but thankfully it never hid the actors’ expressions. It felt completely different from his public image, where he always appeared polished and flawless.
Lin Yuan’s house, in contrast, was a vibrant reflection of her personality. It is bold, colorful, and full of creative energy. I absolutely adored the playful mix of elements: random cute trinkets, pops of bright colors, and, my personal favorite, the emerald green kitchen counters.
As someone who’s currently obsessed with emerald green, this made me especially happy. The colored glass blocks added even more flair, while the beige walls and flooring provided just the right balance. Interior goals, honestly!😍
Filter Chinese Drama Characters
Su Cheng Cheng (Played by Li Lan Di)
Su Cheng Cheng is a simple, independent young woman. Self-reliant and quick-thinking, she bravely faces the hardships that life throws her way. Despite struggling with insecurities and low self-esteem, she possesses an endless well of compassion and empathy.
Whether it’s family, friends, colleagues, or even strangers, Su Cheng Cheng is always ready to lend a helping hand. But don’t be fooled by her gentle heart, when faced with injustice, she’s not afraid to fight back.🤼♀️
Tang Qi (Played by Tan Jian Ci)
Tang Qi is a quiet, thoughtful, and sensitive soul. Not only is he sensitive to light, but he’s also incredibly attuned to his own and others’ emotions. This sensitivity makes him prone to mental stress, and his mental state often affects his vision. As a result, his trips to the ophthalmologist sometimes feel more like therapy sessions.
Despite his stubbornness and tendency to overthink, Tang Qi is an observant, perceptive man with a romantic heart. Though his actions can be frustrating at times, his affection for Su Cheng Cheng’s many personas reveals a deep longing for genuine connection.
Lin Yuan / Lin Qia Qia (Played by Huang Si Rui)
Lin Yuan, also known as Lin Qia Qia, is the most adorable eccentric character in this drama. As a comic writer, she fully embraces the quirks often associated with creative minds in fiction. She’s imaginative, full of wild ideas, and her thoughts rarely follow a linear path.
Impulsive yet kind, loyal, and sweet, Lin Yuan brings a unique sparkle to every scene. In my opinion, she’s the cutest character in the entire series. Unlike the cunning and business-savvy Gu Yu, Lin Yuan is a bit naïve, especially when it comes to business. She loves her craft but has zero patience for the business side of things.
Gu Yu (Played by Gao Han Yu)
Gu Yu is Tang Qi’s best friend and trusted colleague. He is the only person who truly understands him inside and out. As a business partner, Gu Yu is reliable, logical, and level-headed. As a friend, he’s fiercely loyal and always ready to lend a hand or a sarcastic remark whenever Tang Qi’s life spirals into emotional chaos.
Though he’s naturally straightforward, pursuing Lin Yuan, with all her unpredictability, forces Gu Yu into unfamiliar territory. He must wreck his brain to get close to her. Still, he gives it his best shot.
Gu Yu is a nerd in a good fashion. His has a surprising passion for animals and an encyclopedic knowledge of random zoological facts. You never know when he’ll drop a fun (and slightly unnecessary) fact about animals. 😅
Su Qing Li (Played by Jia Ze)
Su Qing Li is Su Cheng Cheng’s older sister. As a successful divorce lawyer, Su Qing Li is intelligent, fashionable, and undeniably attractive. With her sharp mind and composed demeanor, she exudes confidence and poise. Compared to Su Cheng Cheng, she seems like the “perfect” one: elegant, eloquent, and effortlessly impressive.
But don’t let appearances fool you. Behind her professional polish lies a surprisingly chaotic side. Su Qing Li’s room is full of mess. Her love life is a revolving door that even their mother playfully critiques. Despite her pride and occasional sharp tongue, Su Qing Li has a deeply caring heart. She’s fiercely protective of her sister, ready to charge like a stylish mother hen whenever Su Cheng Cheng faces trouble. In her own way, she loves fiercely. Just with fewer hugs and more pointed advice.😁
Filter Chinese Drama Conclusion
Filter is a very enjoyable drama. It was funny, heartwarming, and surprisingly touching. I can’t believe I almost missed it and only stumbled upon it now! It’s the perfect pick for a daily dose of entertainment. No need to rush through episodes, this drama is best enjoyed slowly, like your favorite cup of tea.
The comedy will lift your mood after a long day, while the romance might just make you crave a warm hug from your partner, a friend, your sibling, your parent… or even your pet.
And guess what, Filter is best enjoyed with company. So call up your favorite person, tell them to come over, and dive into this charming little world together. It’ll be a sweet shared experience you won’t regret. So, what do you think, dear readers? Are you ready to watch it? If you do, don’t forget to share your thoughts about this one. I’d love to hear your thoughts. Until the next drama review, dear readers. See you and happy watching!
