Always Home

Plot Synopsis

"Always Home" is a heartwarming Chinese drama that follows the lives of a groupof friends who grow uptogether in a hospital residential compound. Adapted from the novel of the same name by Xiao Ge, the story begins in the summer of 2007.

Sixteen-year-old Chen Huan'er moves from a small town to the bustling city of Tian He due to her mother's job transfer. There, she befriends Jing Xichi, a sunny, soccer-loving boy, and Song Cong, a studious "model student." Together, they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence, sharing everyday moments like studying, weekend outings, and sports meets. The drama doesn't shy away fromportraying deeper issues, such as unrequited love, shattered dreams when Jing Xichi has to give upon his soccer aspirations after an injury, family upheavals, and grief.

The story continues through high school, college, and into adulthood. Tragedy strikes when Jing Xichi's father dies in the line of duty during their senior year of high school. Chen Huan'er supports Jing Xichi, drawing on her ownpast experiences with illness. Though they attend the same university, misunderstandings keepthem apart. After graduation, Chen Huan'erpursues further studies, while Jing Xichi takes a job in Beijing. Their friendshipblossoms into a long-distance romance. Eventually, Jing Xichi returns to Chen Huan'er's city, and heproposes to her upon completion of her doctorate.

"Always Home" is more than just a love story. It's a coming-of-age tale about friendship, family, and finding one'splace in the world. The "red house" of the title serves as both aphysical location and a symbol of the characters'pure, untainted hearts and their journey through life's joys and sorrows.

The drama features a cast of fresh, talented young actors, including Zhai Xiaowen as Jing Xichi, Zhou Keyu as Song Cong, Yang Xizi as Chen Huan'er, and He Qiu as their friend Qi Qi. They deliverpowerfulperformances that capture the essence of youth, with its mix of innocence, confusion,passion, and determination. The series offers a touching and relatableportrayal of growing up, filled with warmth and genuine emotion. The drama is available with English subtitles.

Zhai Xiaowen
Jing Qichi

Zhou Keyu
Song Cong

Yang Xizi
Chen Huan'er

He Qiu
Qi Qi