Another drama comes to an end, and with it, comes the inevitable dissection of the final episode. For “When The Snail Falls In Love,” the series finale left many viewers with mixed feelings, particularly concerning the very last moments. Is it a perfect ending? Perhaps not. But should a slightly flawed conclusion overshadow what was, for the most part, an exceptional series? Let’s dive into the reactions and key moments of Episode 21 and explore what made this drama so captivating, even if the ending wasn’t entirely smooth.
Recapping the Tension: Ji Bai’s Predicament and Xu Xu’s Resolve
Episode 21 opens with a heart-stopping scene: Ji Bai, our beloved Captain Ji, is captured and at the mercy of the villains, Mr. and Mrs. Bad. Despite the dire situation, the cinematography doesn’t falter, showcasing even in his vulnerable state, Ji Bai’s striking profile and the impeccable lighting. It’s a testament to the drama’s visual appeal, even amidst intense tension. One can’t help but be distracted by his captivating presence, even when facing imminent danger. In contrast, most of us would probably resemble a “homeless person” in such a situation, highlighting the almost unrealistically perfect composure of our protagonists.
Ji Bai is down and at the mercy of Mr. and Mrs Bad in When the Snail Falls in Love finale
Meanwhile, Xu Xu is facing her own terrifying ordeal. Having been thrown from the train, she’s left injured and in shock. However, true to her resilient character, she quickly snaps out of despair. Clutching her bruised shoulder, she pushes through the pain, driven by the urgency to find the emergency pack and escape. The fall from a moving train is no small feat, and the drama acknowledges the potential damage, even if Xu Xu’s immediate reaction is fueled by adrenaline. It’s a testament to her training, perhaps thanks to Ji Bai’s rigorous (and slightly humorous) off-screen training methods, involving luggage carts and airport runways.
Xu Xu injured and determined after falling from the train in When the Snail Falls in Love episode 21
The Chase and a Convenient Rescue: Uncle Zhao to the Rescue?
Lost in a seemingly rural landscape, Xu Xu’s determination shines through. Despite her injuries and lack of direction, she presses on. In a moment of desperation, she lights a flare, a small beacon in the vast wilderness. Initially, it feels like a futile attempt, a tiny fire in an uninhabited area. But, miraculously, a helicopter appears overhead! It’s a relief that she’s in an open area, maximizing her chances of being seen. Let’s hope that pilot has excellent eyesight!
Xu Xu lights a flare hoping for rescue in When the Snail Falls in Love series finale
Just when hope seems to dwindle as the helicopter disappears, a car emerges – a Land Cruiser, no less. And who should step out but Zhao Lang, Zhao Han’s father, Uncle Zhao! It’s a somewhat convenient, almost unbelievable rescue in the middle of nowhere. While a tad far-fetched, especially given the previously tight plotting of “When the Snail Falls in Love,” the arrival of Uncle Zhao does inject a much-needed boost of hope. Plus, it’s worth noting that good looks run in the family, as Uncle Zhao is quite the attractive man, unsurprising given his lineage. Perhaps the helicopter crew spotted Xu Xu and alerted him? Regardless of the slightly improbable circumstances, his arrival marks a turning point.
Uncle Zhao arrives to rescue Xu Xu in the nick of time in When the Snail Falls in Love final episode
Revelations and Reunions: Unmasking Uncle Zhao and Racing Against Time
The reveal that Uncle Zhao has been undercover all along adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. He was even present in Burma during Ji Bai’s initial visit in episode 1, further connecting him to the unfolding events. This revelation retroactively makes his presence less random and more purposeful. Uncle Zhao swiftly takes Xu Xu into his car, and they race to intercept the train, guided by information from their team. However, they discover the train is empty – the villains have escaped! But amidst the disappointment, there’s a glimmer of hope: Ji Bai is alive! The collective sigh of relief from viewers must have been audible worldwide. The thought of losing Ji Bai was simply unbearable for fans invested in “When the Snail Falls in Love.”
Uncle Zhao reveals his undercover operation to Xu Xu in When the Snail Falls in Love series finale
The Unbearable Whiteness and General Po’s Strange Code
Brother Lu is also found, injured, having fallen victim to a trap. Despite their harrowing experiences, both Ji Bai and Brother Lu maintain an almost comical level of pristine appearance. How their white shirts remain so impeccably white after train crashes and forest escapades is a mystery, perhaps involving industrial-strength Scotchguard. It’s a humorous detail that highlights the stylized presentation of the drama – good guys stay pristine, bad guys get dirty.
Ji Bai is alive but injured in the clutches of General Po in When the Snail Falls in Love episode 21
General Po, in a bizarre display of villainous sentimentality, laments to a barely conscious Ji Bai about the rarity of finding worthy opponents, harder even than finding friends. He then proposes a trade: Ji Bai for a car. Despite his weakened state, Ji Bai remains defiant, asserting their inevitable capture. His unwavering spirit is admirable, and perhaps fueled by his own undeniable attractiveness – who could give up when looking that good, even near death? General Po’s name might evoke unintended Teletubby associations for some, but his complex relationship with Brother Lu adds a layer of unexpected humanity to his villainous persona. He seems genuinely attached to her, a strange but intriguing dynamic.
Brother Lu injured but still defiant in When the Snail Falls in Love series finale
Snail Trails and a Sniper Shot: Xu Xu’s Detective Skills and Perfect Aim
As Uncle Zhao and Xu Xu drive, she notices familiar fragments – pieces of her drawings! Ji Bai, in a clever Hansel and Gretel move, has left clues for her to follow. The blood on the snippets is a stark reminder of his perilous situation, fueling Xu Xu’s fear and determination. It’s a testament to Ji Bai’s trust in Xu Xu’s sharp detective mind, even in the face of danger. While continuity questions about the amount of blood on his shirt versus the paper scraps might arise, the emotional impact of Xu Xu piecing together the clues is undeniable.
General Po and Brother Lu with their captive Ji Bai at the river in When the Snail Falls in Love episode 21
They reach the riverbank where Ji Bai and his captors are located. Ji Bai appears unconscious, and blood from his ear is a worrying sign. General Po declares his intention to release Ji Bai once across the border, leaving his fate to chance. The tension escalates as Brother Lu raises her gun, seemingly aiming at Ji Bai! But then, Xu Xu appears, a beacon of hope and skill. In a triumphant moment, she shoots Brother Lu, saving Ji Bai. Xu Xu’s marksmanship and bravery are on full display, solidifying her growth throughout the series. She has undoubtedly proven herself worthy of the Major Crime Unit.
Xu Xu finds Ji Bai's clues in When the Snail Falls in Love series finale
Brother Lu aims her gun at Ji Bai in a tense moment from When the Snail Falls in Love finale
Xu Xu shoots Brother Lu to save Ji Bai in When the Snail Falls in Love episode 21
Xu Xu makes the perfect shot to save Ji Bai in When the Snail Falls in Love series finale
Action-Packed Climax and a Long-Awaited Evaluation
A chaotic gunfight ensues. Uncle Zhao is injured, but reinforcements arrive, and the helicopter returns. Xu Xu rushes to Ji Bai, who briefly awakens, enough to topple General Po and prevent further violence. General Po is ultimately captured, mirroring Brother Lu’s fate. The episode becomes a whirlwind of action, perhaps a bit overwhelming in its intensity. But after Ji Bai’s near-death experience, a decisive and action-packed resolution feels necessary.
The rescue operation and gunfight at the river in When the Snail Falls in Love finale
Xu Xu cradles Ji Bai, begging him to wake up. He opens his eyes and delivers the long-awaited evaluation: “Good shot. You have passed the evaluation.” She’s officially in the Major Crime Unit! Then, he passes out again, leaving viewers in suspense for a fleeting moment. It’s a touching and slightly humorous scene, highlighting the unique dynamic between the Lion and the Snail. While a darker ending with Ji Bai’s demise and Xu Xu taking over the unit could have been impactful, a happy ending is definitely preferred.
Xu Xu cradles the injured Ji Bai after his rescue in When the Snail Falls in Love episode 21
Time Jump and a Sudden Wedding: Yao Meng and Zhao Han’s Surprise Nuptials
The scene transitions to China, and we find Yao Meng in an apron, attempting to cook. Her culinary skills are… limited, apparently, with “soup” being her sole specialty. It’s a lighthearted and endearing moment, showcasing the domestic side of Yao Meng and Zhao Han’s relationship. But then comes the surprise: they are married! The episode jumps forward in time, and we’ve missed a significant development in their relationship. While their happiness is undeniable, the lack of build-up to this major step feels somewhat jarring and rushed. It leaves viewers feeling a little cheated out of witnessing their romantic progression.
Yao Meng and Zhao Han are married in a time jump in When the Snail Falls in Love finale
Despite the abruptness, their interactions are undeniably sweet. Zhao Han’s adoring gaze at Yao Meng is swoon-worthy, setting unrealistic relationship standards for everyone watching. The reveal of their marriage, subtly indicated by decorations, is a delightful surprise, even if the journey to the altar was skipped. Uncle Zhao’s quick in-and-out visit, seemingly to avoid Yao Meng’s cooking, adds a touch of humor to the scene. While many fans were on board the “Husband train” from the beginning, the missing development between their hospital confession and marriage is a noticeable gap.
Zhao Han gazes lovingly at Yao Meng, now his wife, in When the Snail Falls in Love episode 21
Yao Meng and Zhao Han's wedding decorations in When the Snail Falls in Love series finale
Fishing for Answers and a Wedding Ceremony: Ji Bai’s Return and a Confetti Shower
The scene shifts again to Xu Xu, fishing alone, clearly missing Ji Bai. The setting evokes memories of their earlier fishing trip, highlighting his absence and her longing. The somber mood initially suggests a tragic outcome, leading viewers to believe Ji Bai might have died. But then, the wedding ceremony begins! Monkey’s singing and Zhao Han’s embarrassed reaction provide comic relief. It’s a heartwarming moment, especially when they end up singing together. This wedding scene becomes a highlight of the episode, a much-needed dose of joy amidst the earlier tension and slight disappointment of the rushed romance.
Xu Xu is fishing alone, missing Ji Bai in When the Snail Falls in Love episode 21
Confetti wedding scene from When the Snail Falls in Love finale
Confetti bar scene from When the Snail Falls in Love series finale
Yao Meng’s happiness is infectious, and the confetti-filled celebration is visually stunning. Even a potentially bland wedding cake can’t dampen the joyous atmosphere. Yao Meng hints at someone who can make Xu Xu happy, and then, Ji Bai appears! Looking undeniably handsome even after his near-death experience, Wang Kai in a suit is enough to send hearts racing. The relief and joy at seeing Ji Bai alive and well are overwhelming. The question of why Xu Xu didn’t visit him in the hospital is a plot hole that’s hard to ignore, but Ji Bai’s glorious return somewhat overshadows this inconsistency.
Yao Meng is happy at her wedding in When the Snail Falls in Love episode 21
Wedding cake scene from When the Snail Falls in Love series finale
Ji Bai returns to the wedding, looking handsome in a suit in When the Snail Falls in Love finale
Whispers, Rings, and a Kiss: The Lion and Snail’s Romantic Climax
Xu Xu’s radiant smile as she approaches Ji Bai is heartwarming. Their unspoken communication is palpable. Ji Bai returns her notebook, signifying the Lion finally giving the Snail her answer. He whispers something in her ear, leading to a tearful hug. The intimacy and tenderness of this moment are deeply satisfying for viewers invested in their relationship. The whispered words are left to the imagination, fueling fan speculation and adding to the romantic mystique.
Xu Xu smiles as Ji Bai returns at the wedding in When the Snail Falls in Love series finale
Ji Bai whispers to Xu Xu at the wedding in When the Snail Falls in Love episode 21
Their conversation reveals Xu Xu’s quiet strength and independence. She tells Ji Bai she would have lived fully even without him, but her life would be empty. Ji Bai, in a swift and decisive move, puts a ring on her finger, bypassing any formal proposal. He then seals the deal with a passionate kiss, much to the delight of the wedding guests and viewers alike. It’s a hungry kiss, a culmination of their restrained desires and unspoken feelings. The lack of traditional dating in their relationship is highlighted, jumping straight from professional partnership to marriage proposal.
Ji Bai puts a ring on Xu Xu's finger at the wedding in When the Snail Falls in Love series finale
Ji Bai kisses Xu Xu at their impromptu proposal at the wedding in When the Snail Falls in Love episode 21
Back to Work and a Cryptic Cliffhanger: The Unresolved Case and Season 2 Tease?
Ji Bai also reinstates Yao Meng to the team, completing the happy ending for the main characters. However, the final scene throws a curveball. In a rainy cemetery visit with Ye Qiao, Ji Bai experiences another dizzy spell, a recurring symptom throughout the series that remains unexplained. The scene then cuts to a truck on a remote road, carrying a mysterious body. This abrupt and ambiguous ending leaves viewers puzzled and speculating. Is Ji Bai still unwell? Is he back on a new mission? Or is that Ji Bai’s body in the truck?
Ji Bai and Xu Xu visit Ye Zixi's grave in the rain in When the Snail Falls in Love finale
Ji Bai experiences dizziness at the cemetery in When the Snail Falls in Love episode 21
A mysterious truck and body in the final scene of When the Snail Falls in Love
Final Thoughts: A Rushed Ending but Enduring Love
The ending of “When the Snail Falls in Love” is undeniably rushed and somewhat disjointed. The time jump, the sudden marriage, and the cryptic final scene all contribute to a sense of incompleteness. Many viewers felt cheated by the lack of development in Yao Meng and Zhao Han’s relationship and the abruptness of the Ji Bai and Xu Xu proposal. The pacing of the finale deviates significantly from the carefully constructed narrative of the preceding episodes. It feels like the production might have been constrained by time or episode count, resulting in a condensed and less satisfying conclusion.
However, despite these shortcomings, the core strengths of “When the Snail Falls in Love” remain. The chemistry between Ji Bai and Xu Xu, the compelling crime plots, and the overall visual appeal of the drama are still evident. The ending, while flawed, does leave the door open for a potential second season, hinting at unresolved criminal enterprises and Ji Bai’s ongoing health issues. Perhaps the ambiguous finale is intended to suggest that their work, and their story, is far from over.
Ultimately, while the finale might not be perfect, “When the Snail Falls in Love” delivers a satisfying conclusion to the central romance and crime storyline. The journey of the Lion and the Snail, their unique love story, and their growth as individuals and partners are what truly resonate. The ending may be debated, but the overall impact of this drama and the enduring appeal of its central couple are undeniable. Let’s hope that the cryptic ending is indeed a promise of more to come in the world of “When the Snail Falls in Love.”
