Summit of Our Youth (2025) – A Refreshing Second Chance Romance in the Halls of High School
Summit of Our Youth (Wo Zai Ding Feng Deng Ni) is a 2025 Chinese romantic fantasy web drama that premiered on Youku. Starring Sun Zhenni as Gu Xuejiao and Chen Jingke as Lin Zhihua, the series is adapted from the web novel Falling in Love is Not as Good as Going to Tsinghua by Shi Wei Tu. With 23 episodes directed by Cai Cong, the drama has quickly caught attention for blending youthful energy with themes of redemption and second chances.
The Story
Gu Xuejiao, once weighed down by regrets over failed exams and unfulfilled dreams, finds herself transported back to her final year of high school. Unlike her younger self who was distracted by romance, she now dedicates her focus to academic success. Determined to change her future, she seeks guidance from Lin Zhihua, the school’s top student. Their relationship grows gradually from mentorship to friendship and, eventually, to love, offering viewers a touching portrait of growth, healing, and companionship.
Key Performances
Sun Zhenni brings depth to Gu Xuejiao, capturing the determination of someone who wants to rebuild her life without repeating past mistakes. Her performance strikes a balance between ambition and vulnerability. Chen Jingke portrays Lin Zhihua with subtle warmth and intelligence, creating a character who is supportive yet never overshadowing. Their chemistry unfolds naturally, giving the romance an authentic slow-burn quality that feels both heartwarming and believable.
Direction and Visuals
Cai Cong’s direction gives the story a perfect balance between nostalgic charm and emotional intensity. The high school setting is filmed with bright, dynamic energy, contrasting with quieter, reflective moments that highlight the weight of Xuejiao’s journey. The cinematography captures both the chaos of student life and the serenity of self-discovery, with careful attention to lighting and framing that makes every scene emotionally resonant.
Thematic Depth
At its core, Summit of Our Youth is about more than just romance. It explores resilience, the courage to face failure, and the beauty of second chances. The time-travel element acts as both a plot device and a metaphor, allowing viewers to reflect on the universal wish to redo the past and make better choices. The drama suggests that true growth comes not from erasing mistakes but from learning to rise above them, often with the support of meaningful relationships.
Final Verdict
Summit of Our Youth stands out as a heartfelt youth drama that combines romance, personal ambition, and fantasy in a refreshing way. With its compelling performances, thoughtful themes, and visually appealing direction, it appeals to audiences who enjoy second-chance stories filled with sincerity and warmth. Whether you are drawn to coming-of-age narratives, inspirational journeys, or slow-burn romance, this series deserves a place on your watchlist.