The television series, directed by Nguyen Duong, aired mid-March, exploring family themes within a modern social context. The drama centers on the marriage of Thanh Mai (Le Phuong) and Hoang Dung (Luong The Thanh). Thanh Mai chooses to abandon her career to become a homemaker, dedicating herself entirely to her family. A turning point arises when she invites Nhu Trang (Ngan Hoa), the daughter of a deceased friend, to live with them. From this point, the relationships among the characters begin to unravel as Hoang Dung has an affair with Nhu Trang.

Although the storyline is not new, the series has garnered attention due to its narrative approach. Hoang Dung and Nhu Trang's clandestine affair unfolds both at work and at home. While the female lead manages the household, her husband secretly spends money to rent a private apartment, maintaining his illicit relationship. In recent developments, Thanh Mai grows suspicious and decides to have Nhu Trang move out and live independently, even providing for her living expenses. However, Hoang Dung continues to secretly meet his mistress.

In one scene, Thanh Mai expresses concern, but Nhu Trang shows contempt for her advice. The supporting female character is depicted with a pragmatic outlook, willing to achieve her desires regardless of right or wrong. Furthermore, Hoang Dung embodies a man who lacks resolve in the face of temptation. The character spirals into impulsive choices, disregarding moral standards.

On social media platforms, many viewers suggest the series overuses dramatic elements, inserts illogical situations, and prolongs conflicts unnaturally. One account, Huynh Nhu, commented: "Watching the show often makes me frustrated, not because the script revolves around an affair, but because many details are pushed to an extreme." Another account wrote: "I sympathize with Thanh Mai's character but also feel impatient because she is too submissive. It feels like tragedy keeps repeating without the scriptwriter offering a resolution."

Several details have been criticized as illogical. For example, Hoang Dung and his son both harbor feelings for Nhu Trang, yet he forbids his son from dating her, citing the need to focus on studies. His daughter repeatedly praises Nhu Trang's beauty, even comparing her looks to Thanh Mai's during a meal. Additionally, the scene where Nhu Trang mistakenly takes the wrong escalator, panics, and is rescued by Hoang Dung is deemed cliche and unconvincing.

Thanh Mai's way of life has also sparked debate. On the surface, her family appears stable, but internally, it endures significant pressure and breakdown. She carries the burden of household chores, faces strictness from her mother-in-law, and encounters difficulties raising her adolescent children. A segment of viewers believes the character is too tolerant, leading to consequences within the family, making other members dependent on her and resistant to changing their habits.

Luong The Thanh (right) and Ngan Hoa in "Bong Ma Hanh Phuc." Photo: THVL

Actor Luong The Thanh stated that the controversial plot points indicate viewers are deeply engaged with the story and the characters' emotions. During filming, if he felt a scene was unconvincing, he would discuss it with the director for adjustments. "I receive many messages from viewers, with them constantly criticizing the character Hoang Dung. I consider this a positive sign for the series. After each project, I review my roles to learn from them, identifying areas for future improvement," Luong The Thanh said.

Actress Ngan Hoa, who plays Nhu Trang, views audience comments as a reflection of the interest and emotions the series generates. She listens to feedback to enhance her acting skills. "I separate myself from the character, so I am not saddened by negative comments; instead, I find it interesting that I have created a unique color for the series," she said.

Cat Tien