The beginning of the series is slow, as they really go in depth with the main lead's character and career developments. But I dropped the series at first because I found her character to be unrealistic, as she's ever so hopeful in a world of corrupt politicians--funny, because this becomes the point of the series. How do the four main leads change as they try to bring justice in society/what kind of leaders do they develop into? Can Chen Yi Jun remain as hopeful and persistent throughout? After picking up the series, I began to root for Chen Yi Jun's "unrealistic" idealism myself.
The last ~three episodes were rushed and it felt like some scenes were missing, but didn't leave many unanswered questions, in a good way.
I would say the best part of the series was the amazing character development, as you really begin to feel for the different characters by the later half of the series, whether it's fortunate/unfortunate how they've developed.
Overall, the series was very inspiring to watch if you're interested in social justice/politics. Unlike other political dramas, this isn't just about corrupt political dealings and unlike other coming of age dramas, this isn't just about romance/family/career.
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This review may contain spoilers
So when I first watched it, I was 14, pretty easy to shock and I had no knowledge of Thai dramas. The concept of slap-and-kiss was totally unknown to me. I both loved and hated it. I loved it because the slap and kiss was new and spicy to me, because the male lead was a great actor, because I loved to him scheming in the second part of the Lakorn and also being extremely in love with the female lead.
However, there were things that I hated : I was very shocked when he raped the female lead and although this is very common in Thai lakorns, rape is totally unacceptable where I come from so I had a big problem with it. Moreover, the female lead was too weak, took an incredible amount of slaps and I know a lot will disagree with me, but I think Aff is off to me. Nevertheless, this Lakorn hold a special place in my heart, probably because it was my first slap and kiss and my first thai dram.
And then, recently, out of curiosity, I watched the previous versions of this story (this is based on a Thai classic novel that is still extremely popular).
And now, this version totally lost its value to me.
In the original novel, there’s no rape between the leads, something that relieved me but also made me disappointed with the 2008 version because then, I don’t see why they added this unnecessary plot (and rape is unforgivable so they should stop presenting it as if it is). More importantly, in the original novel, Harit and Soraya come to really form a true bound and to fall in love much before he realizes her true identity so their love makes much more sense (he even releases her before knowing who she is because he wants her to go back to the one he thinks she loves : and she’s very sad to leave him but keeps writing to him so that they wouldn’t be completely parted)
However, here, this is just hate and torture and BIM ! he realizes she’s not Sansanee after raping and suddenly decides he’s in love with her even though we didn’t see much development in their relationship, and what’s more, this is even more senseless coming from Soraya after everything he put her through (and again, no development : I don’t see when or how she fell in love with him but BIM ! she says she loves him).
And finally, Soraya and Harit are smarter and more interesting in the novel : Soraya intentionally lets him think she’s Sansanee to protect her (something I can understand), being smarter and logical than this new Soraya who just keeps screaming she’s not Sansanee but burns a picture of the real one that might save her from Harit.
So, to put it simple (because I actually might go on for hours) : now that I have more experience in Thai dramas, I’d say that the 2008 version revamped the story in a way they shouldn’t have because the original material was much more interesting and consistent and now that I’m grown up, I don’t see why this had so much success. It’s nice to watch but it’s not epic
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this drama was based off a true story, which makes it sadder when you realize it, and considering they only made 11 episodes, they fit quite a lot and still made it an excellent drama.
the cast was p e r f e c t i o n ! Erika played Aya amazingly while Nishikido Ryo played his supporting role well. (his crying scenes made me BAWL) the family was also great and same with the others that had small roles. the music was also just perfect. the songs put you into a certain mood, it's hard for me to even explain but it makes the drama that more emotional.
i would recommend anyone to watch this. it's very sad but also extremely inspiring. and if you can, read the real diary from Aya (;
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Another good K-BL drama!!
Actually I didn't know about this drama and I accidentally saw it and decided to watch it on the spot...and I definitely didn't regret it!!S Korra lately is giving us so many good BL's I'm grateful and excited for the upcoming ones.
This drama is so cute and fluffy, with healthy relationships between friends, family and couples!! There's only one toxic character and he got what he deserved. I really liked how much the main couple trusted each other,and especially how Hantae didn't doubt Baram even for a second!!
The acting is very good and the chemistry of the main couple is great!!
The music is also very nice and as a plus there are some moments with great cinematography!!
Overall I really enjoyed the drama !!
I binge-watched it and when it ended I wanted more, so I totally recomend it!!!I'm also glad that they released all the episodes at once!!
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A sweet upper when you’re feeling down
My Fairy Doctor is the perfect short format drama if you’re feeling sad/depressed after your favorite standard drama *Love Between Fairy And Devil* just ended.|Plot as sweet as your lozenge but has some kick in the end|
Plot has some cliche time traveling hijinks like the forced co-habitation but the story still delivers a decent amount of unique conflicts/surprises. Even though it’s a short format drama, the characters are well fleshed out even with the little dialogues that they have. The “real life” conflict are believable in real world perspective and the fantasy conflict provides us with just the right amount of angst to balance out all the sweet scenes.
|Cute chemistry but not that much skinship|
I’ve always liked the FL even when I saw her in My Neighbor Can’t sleep because she has that sunny/vibrant aura that fits most Cdrama heroine. She’s not the prettiest but she definitely has good chemistry with her MLs. I’ve seen the ML in Maiden Holmes but he didn’t shine as much because Zhang Linghe is just too good looking to notice anyone else. But here in My Fairy Doctor, he got to showcase his manly charms. He’s not your typical idol/boy toy ML but has a more serious, manly look like a young Feng Shao Feng. They didn’t have dramatic scenes but the OTP did deliver the right amount of angst, and romance that the scenes needed. I guess they are more comfortable with acting together because they only have a 1 year age gap
Finally, I would recommend watching My Fairy Doctor if you want something light but still has good special effects and set. Even though it’s a short format drama, yo7 can see that the production still invested in the effects and chose the right setting.
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This review may contain spoilers
Hidden Love: A Heartwarming Journey Through Love and Growth
"Hidden Love" is a spellbinding youth romance drama that captures the essence of love, friendship, and personal transformation. Adapted from the novel of the same name, the series introduces us to Sang Zhi and her secret affection for Duan Jiaxu, her brother's friend, as their relationship blossoms.This drama is a refreshing take on the genre, with a focus on heartfelt storytelling and character development. Sang Zhi's journey is portrayed with authenticity, avoiding the clichéd "love at first sight" trope. Instead, her feelings develop gradually, showcasing the realism of young love. Duan Jiaxu's character is equally well-crafted, adding depth and sincerity to the narrative.
One of the drama's standout features is its balance between tender romantic moments and the exploration of deeper emotional themes. The talented cast's comedic timing and chemistry add layers of enjoyment, making every interaction engaging and relatable.
Zhao Lusi and Chen Zheyuan deliver extraordinary performances as Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, capturing the audience's hearts and emotions. Their portrayal is a testament to their exceptional acting skills, as they convincingly bring their characters to life.
Supporting characters, including Sang Yan and the parents, contribute to the richness of the narrative, making the world feel authentic and relatable. The drama's cinematography captures the essence of youth and adds a visual dimension to the storytelling.
While a few minor drawbacks like pacing and filter choices exist, they do not overshadow the drama's overall charm. The soundtrack complements the story beautifully, adding an extra layer of emotion to the scenes.
In summary, "Hidden Love" is a captivating exploration of youthful romance and growth. With its exceptional performances, engaging storyline, and genuine characters, it offers a heartwarming viewing experience that will leave you smiling, laughing, and cherishing the journey of love. Don't miss this delightful drama that invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty of hidden emotions and blossoming relationships.
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Ancient Chinese Detectives Go Sci-Fi
In a year when I’m getting far more out of C dramas than K ones, Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty still manages to be a standout. It’s been hailed an underrated treasure where its been seen and indeed, I don’t disagree. While the title and cast might not inspire hordes of viewers to take a peek, it is a worthwhile entry into the crime genre. What makes this series shine ever so brightly is the meticulous and painstaking world building. Of course the show wouldn’t be quite as entertaining without the core male characters, Lu Lingfeng, Su Wuming and Fei Ji Shi who are wonderfully penned to be as alike as chalk and cheese. There are female characters too but are relegated to support roles and love interests. While I wouldn’t go so far as to say that they aren’t needed because they do have significant parts to play especially those within the investigative team, the joy of watching this 36-episode drama is not found in their exploits.The world where all these crimes are staged bears a strong resemblance to the Tang dynasty probably during the second reign of Emperor Ruizong due to the presence of the powerful Princess Taiping and her equally powerful nephew, the crown prince Li Longji. The politics matter quite a bit as it influences how the lead characters navigate their way around key crimes involving nobles and the royals in Chang’an, Nanzhou and Luoyang. After cracking a major case involving the sale of a tea with dubious ingredients in the capital city, Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming are banished for their good work to the south. One has the feeling that it’s done in part so that Lu Lingfeng can get his delightful growth arc and for the two men to do some much needed cleaning up in these places.
Both men are observant and intelligent but the advantage that Su Wuming has over Lu Lingfeng is the passage of years — wisdom and experience and the privilege of being the only apprentice of the great Di Renjie, the great Tang statesman. It becomes increasingly evident that the older man is meant to instruct the younger in the error of his ways and turn him into a law enforcement officer worth his salt. Lu Lingfeng, who begins his career as a martial arts pugilist, embarks literally and metaphorically on a journey that sees him go from being a rigid arrogant hothead to a far more circumspect, methodical and adaptable detective. There's even an old-fashioned nobility that comes across as quaint. To further assist him in that goal of growth is the persistent Pei Xujin, his love interest who is an accomplished artist in her own right. While the two don’t have the type of chemistry which raises the temperature in the room, some of his character building (on hindsight) does depend on having her hanging around especially when she has her young family retainer Xue Huan in tow.
Along for the ride is the obligatory physician Fei Ji Shi whose greatest pleasure in life is boozing and chomping on chicken. Despite his bedraggled appearance he has real skills and useful medical/scientific knowledge that comes in handy in various cases. He is entirely his own man, wandering in and out of the narrative largely at his own convenience.
Strange Tales is unabashedly a classic detective story modelled after the golden age era. The quirky Su Wuming has the shrewdness of Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot and the self-deprecation of Peter Falk’s Columbo. He is certainly the man to have around when the bodies pile up and the culprits are nowhere to be found. What distinguishes this show from others in the genre are the science-fiction/ fantasy elements. The weapons used to perpetrate these murders are often tools of another world although the investigation process is grounded in the familiar strictures of the genre.
What keeps the show from being deadly serious and unerringly enjoyable is the humour. It is a funny show and the show does have fun at the characters’ expense. But the dialogue is for the most part witty and there are genuinely hilarious moments that emerge from an intelligent script. It’s certainly and easily one of the best things I’ve seen this year.
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Best BL of 2021
I began watching this series before it was completed and had to wait patiently for new episodes. Never have I been so anxious to know what happens to fictional people. I have never seen a story that captivates the unpredictability of emotions so perfectly. The complication of having family drama and the pressure of keeping everyone will be happy at what may seem to be the cost of your own happiness.The story centres around Pat and Pran and builds so much that I honestly was wondering where they can go, but they found a way to not only keep it fresh but captivating. They are separated both at school and at home, due to faculty wars and family wars, which had me wondering if this series is really a BL because their was no one for them to be in the same space unless they are fighting. Then in the heights of emotions and battles, emotions get out of hand and then that balcony scene happened. I was literally holding my breath. The actors really showed of their skills in this scene, the will they wont they dynamics came to a head. the tension, the intensity, the emotion and the uncertainty had me at the edge of my seat. I was so worried about what was going to happen that I had removed the subtitles and tried to judge what was going on from their actions. This had me broken from the moment Pran walked off and left Pat standing there. I literally could not process it and I had to re-watch the scene with the subtitles only for every word to pull at my heart to have it finally ripped out when he walked off.
When it finally began to look like they got everything figured out, the curtain drops and its back to square one. I felt for Wai the most because he actually was genuinely hurt by his best friend keeping secrets. The writing on this show truely captured the essence of having to keep things a secret for everyone to be happy. While also showing that love has no limits and doesn't require much for you to have all you need. That moment when they returned home because they realise it isn't all about their happiness, made it worth so much more for me because too many times people forget your actions affect others.
This show truly was a rollercoaster of emotions with highs and lows, the best part about it is that, no matter which emotion they had someone right there with them. It was an amazing experience going through this part of their lives with them.
PS: If you have made it to the where the Pat's dad refused Pat's friend gift. Congrats to their parents for possibly turning into adults.
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This review may contain spoilers
the machinations of a gilded cage
TLDR-You may expect the normal melodramatic saquek, but this drama will surprise you.
Gorgeous OST, beautifully shot cinematography with layers of deeper meaning that'll break your heart when you're paying attention; a strong plot that doesn't meander, and very strong acting throughout to keep it all seamlessly tied together. Even saquek-tired viewers will be pleasantly surprised by this fresh, even modern take on a real-life story.
Thoughts on the main leads:
Lee Jun Ho: I've been a devoted Lee Jun Ho fan since watching his first main role in Just Between Lovers. I first watched that series because I really liked the premise and the cover photo, and quickly became utterly enamored by Jun Ho's character. He was charismatic, deeply troubled, and full of old physical and emotional scars that drew me in throughout the entirety of the series. The arc between him and his grandma crushed me and I thought his emotional scenes were masterfully done (including his public breakdown in the street when he received his diagnosis). I had no clue he was an IDOL until I looked him up afterward and saw that his real-life persona couldn't be more different from his character in the series, which impressed me even more. From then on, I was a huge fan and looked forward to his other roles. His charisma certainly knows no bounds and is not limited to 1 genre. He portrayed his role as the crown prince (and later as the king) masterfully and I can't help but replay his emotional scenes over and over. His relationship with his grandfather, the king, was troubled and full of complications that I enjoyed watching play out on screen. It teetered so often on domestic abuse with the emotional and sometimes physical warfare the king inflicted on him, despite how often he claimed to love him. The dynamic was interesting and effective and I found myself both angry at the king and full of pity. In the end, I could sense the raw loneliness, grief, love, and pain Yi San felt for him.
Lee Se Young: Although I'd only seen Lee Se Young in another saguek, The Crowned Clown, that series also happens to be one of my all-time favorite KDRAMAS so I had high hopes for her. Her role in The Crowned Clown was much meeker in character, and I actually thought her character took away from the overall plot and pacing of the drama because I thought the most interesting aspect of that drama was Yeo Jin Goo's Clown Ha Sun and King Yi Heon and when the romantic melodrama aspect started taking the forefront of the drama and pushing the suspenseful dynamic of the twin brothers to the background, it changed my overall interest in the show (although I still loved it for different reasons). Her role in The Red Sleeve is much more prominent and gives her a lot of room to stretch her acting skills, both emotionally and physically and in different genres, so I especially loved watching her this time. Her facial expressions are so emotive and I found myself laughing and crying with and at her on several occasions.
OST: Gorgeous. Emotive. Enhanced every scene without overwhelming it.
Plot: Surprising and fresh with subverted tropes, strong and empowered female characters, broken stereotypes (female saves male MULTIPLE times, female with strong willpower, sensitive man, etc). I loved Deok Im's strength as a woman in her determination to live for herself, regardless of the pain she'd feel by not going the easy route. I loved that she saved Yi San and was able to protect him on multiple occasions. I loved Yi San's consideration for Deok Im later on in his conviction to treat her as a woman and not as an inferior subject. I loved Yi San's royal guard and his adorable gullibility and fierce loyalty. He brought on moments of much-warranted levity which brightened both the scene and Yi San's countenance. I loved the friendship between the court ladies and the moral greyness of some of the other women. I loved that the "antagonists" in this drama wasn't the true villain; it was the palace and its rules that entrapped our main characters and the "heroes" were the very people that were pillars keeping the palace living and breathing.
Episode 14 Update:
I've grown very frustrated with the relationship between Yi San and Deok Im.
I understand there are many complexities, and I empathize and understand Deok Im's fears and insecurities toward accepting the role as a concubine so I can't fault her for refusing the role and putting herself first; however, Yi San has only ever been fully honest with her regarding his feelings and his desire to keep her safe whilst she's *brutally* turned him down so many times, I've lost count. She disregards his feelings to intentionally hurt him and push him away despite her true feelings, and she only ever treats him for his title and not as a man. Yi San frustrates me as well because he's so painfully aware of his title, that his desperation to be treated as a man by Deok Im understates how serious and challenging that request would be for a normal person to hear. All physical skinship, excluding the reuniting hug, after she saved him from the ambush, has been physically forced and one-sided, including the kiss at the end of Episode 14. If I'm being told to believe she wanted that kiss because she submits into it at the end, no thank you k-drama world, that's not how reality works. I'm frustrated he did that, and I'm frustrated that it was *once again* a one-sided show of affection (that she didn't even ask for). I want to see HER fight for him *as a man* just 1 time and she hasn't. It has only ever been for her king and highness (excluding the time when they were children), and I pity him for that (despite disapproving of his behavior toward her physically).
Episode 15:
"I have deceived his Majesty. His Majesty may deceive the court ladies at his will, but a court lady may not deceive the King."
UGH. Still pretty frustrated with their relationship. They're both in very difficult positions, both on the level as a man and a woman and as King and court lady. I selfishly really just want her to hug him and tell him she cares about him too and he's not so painfully alone in the world.
Epsiode 16 & 17:
Oh. My. Tears. What a heart-breaking, gorgeous, beautiful, punch in the gut.
I love the ending so much. I love the subtle and nuanced cinematography that captured so elegantly the "prison walls" that framed so many of our characters throughout. I loved that Yi San stripped away and laid himself bare for Deok Im and that she *finally* openly acknowledged her love (and without saying it still) for him. I loved that they ended up together and both willingly chose the other in the end. If I'm not making much sense atm, it's because I'm still typing through my tears.
Can't recommend this drama enough, and I'm so happy our beloved cast and crew received the proper attention and accolades that were well deserved.
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I just finished the series an hour ago and the songs kept playing on my mind so I thought of writing this. Overall, the series is cliche as to most of us who read and watch dramas. But what makes it unique is how the artist portrayed each character that changed the viewers perception from ordinary to extra-ordinary. I was actually been waiting for this drama.
Plot wise, a common wealthy male lead falls in love to a nobody female lead. But of course, that what gains the public's interest. The transition of the story line was indeed smooth. There were unexpected twist but most were predictable. If you ever love music this series is for you. It contains finding your inspiration, persevering for your dreams and overcoming sufferings. RomCom side of this story is strongly bonded at the same time I find it cute. As for the other side stories, I must say, only Cdrama made me hate second lead male. Originally I would vouch for the second leads, but this drama just didn't work that magic. Nonetheless, the antagonists made just the right balance to make this drama perfect.
As for the characters, what I hate about dramas are female lead being too submissive and weak, and so, that's one of the strong points of this series having a strong personality for a female lead. Although sometimes she acts stupid, it only shows the natural flaws of a person in reality. ZTao on the other hand, was the perfect guy for this drama. Like he was just being himself during the whole duration of the series. The vibe he portrays were all natural and not just an act, from his singing and interaction with other the casts. Just like watching the life of a real star unscripted and that's what amazed me.
Of course, there will always be a weak points. What I dislike about this drama is that it has to end while the story was just starting. I think, 44 episodes were enough, but then it felt like most of the airing time where wasted by unnecessary side stories and ended up rolling the credits way too rush. I was really anticipating for his time on the stage but saw none, what a petty. What are those practices for??!! (Ranting because its unjustifiable, you'll know when you finish this series)
Nevertheless, I would recommend this to those of you who's lost their purpose in life. Learn from the script and the characters way of life. There were many hurdles, but despite that they overcome.
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This review may contain spoilers
Heal the World; One Heart at a Time
I wanted an easy on the brain rom-com without tropes and this was exactly that. I know both leads from various other series but the first time watching them in a modern. They had great sparks from the first episode and it really was like healing the world, a heart at a time.Pros: The comedy and strength of the leads chemistry even before they get together. It's a slow burn but not to the point where you don't know whether you're coming nor going. The ML played by Joseph is a breath of fresh air in a modern lead where he's optimistic, loyal, kind, always has the FL's back no matter what the situation is. He keeps bringing her out of her low-self esteem stage due to her childhood. She in turn starts to grow and expand in her element as a doctor before our very eyes. It's quite lovely to see.
The two supporting best friends as someone mentioned in a previous review, don't just bust out with unhelpful comments and advice but who take real life into account and always offer advice that will lead to the best outcome. It's quite realistic. There aren't any overbearing parents, in fact both sides are very supportive of their children. No stalker, clingy ex's either or really dumb misunderstandings. Everything is real, mature, and worth the watch and the laughter.
The first antagonist was dealt with properly and maturely. Wish same went for the second one.
Cons: I really wish we got to see what happened to President Gao. He created so much havoc towards the end and then there was just a small message of "oh he went to jail". For what? That could have been shown better. I had to fast-forward the beginning parts a bit because though they were comedic, they were too slapstick and not my personal preference. Also wish the second couple got together a solid 5 episodes before the finale, it would just have flushed out their storyline better. Lastly, wish that our FL didn't wear her hair in that weird bun looking thing; either hair down where she looked liked an adult or a ponytail. Just made her look like a kid. Other than that, I saw no other cons with this series.
Would I recommend it? Yes I would. Especially for people who like easy, funny rom-coms. This is definitely the way to go. Grab some popcorn and enjoy.
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Rating:
3 points = 'hmmm...'
Rewatch value: I normally don't rewatch dramas, therefore.....
6-7 points = 'it's not better or worse than any other drama out there'
Story: nothing new, but enjoyable nonetheless
Music: not bad, but not very memorable either
9 points = 'I loved it'
Acting: Matt and Krit were fascinating. I could imagine them reacting the same way in real life. And for once the gay best friend was kind of funny and not simply annoying. Besides, I loved their friendship! It showed throughout the whole show and made my heart all fluffy ;)
10 points = 'I would die for it'
I don't give away 10 points. It really is that simple :)
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I have no idea what the budget for this drama was but they must have spend it a fair bit, especially for the overseas locations. I can't say that the actions were done that well but for a Kdrama, it has one of the biggest gun battle scene I've seen in a drama.
Overall, the acting was okay, the story was good but what was exceptional was the OSTs, there were some very memorable ones that stays with you.
I would recommend this drama to anyone who is bored with rom-coms or melodramas and want something with a revenge theme and a lot of action.
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Yoh and Mizuki are each other's home
When an aspiring manga artist Tanada Yoh (Mashiko Atsuki) was in a tight spot in his job, he agreed on an unusual contract with a weather forecaster Segasaki Mizuki (Higuchi Kouhei) to live together. In exchange, he cooks and cleans for him. What comes from such a contract is a codependent relationship that makes them both happy and anxious.At first, Yoh was basically a slave of Mizuki, who later implements a way to earn Mizuki's sympathy and possessiveness so that he can indulged in Mizuki’s gentle yet "rude" behavior. Since the two never communicate well, they often misunderstand day-to-day situations. Most often I find this frustrating, but here it allows for Mizuki's character to be fully fleshed out as story goes. It was so heartwarming when I saw the kind of person he really is.
Of course, this won't be as satisfying if it wasn't for the engaging dynamic between the timid Yoh with his dark quirkiness and a drunk clingy Mizuki. The fact that each of them has a peculiar personality makes it an engaging watch. From them provoking each other so casually, the sunny day lovemaking, to the ASMR scene of them doing finger in mouth thing... Their sweet and romantic moment was a delight every time! Even when they are just eating dinner together, clearly crazy in love, like how newlyweds are. Yoh and Mizuki are each other's home. This is just the beginning of their relationship. If season 2 is coming, I hope to see more on Yoh and Segasaki improving their communication with each other.
-Jan 2024, Yovita
Find me on Instagram: @kdramajudge
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False face must hide what false heart doth know.
The biggest draw of the Disguiser is its best loved Nirvana in Fire cast. Paradoxically, this spy thriller could not be more unlike Nirvana in Fire yet at the same time, it cannot be more like it. Boiled down, it is another memorable bromance built around a family that sacrifices for a worthy cause; in this case the kind of country they want for their future generations.Set in 1940s Shanghai during the time of the Japanese puppet government, the prominent Ming family is caught up in the struggle between Japanese, KMT and CCP forces. Ming Jing, the matriarch is formidable in terms of how fiercely she both disciplines and loves her three brothers, whom she raised. She is the family peacemaker and the one the brothers deceive to protect. The Ming family hierarchy is hilarious - both Ming Tai and Ming Cheng fear oldest brother Ming Lou, who is in turn terrified of Ming Jing. Since the youngest Ming Tai is Ming Jing's favorite, he is actually the most powerful brother! Although both Ming Cheng and Ming Tai are adopted, their bond exceeds that of most blood siblings and the individual relationships between the four siblings are well dimensioned and developed. The remarkable chemistry between this veteran cast effortlessly draws us into feeling a part of this amazing and perfectly imperfect family.
As far as spy thrillers go, this is suspenseful, fast paced and action packed. While the action shots are visually thrilling and artistic, it is quite incredible that protagonists seem to be completely bullet proof and villains take way too many fatal shots to die. The overall plot errs on the side of being overly intricate and fails to convince that so many pawns have to be sacrificed so callously to ensnare the enemy. That said, some of the most powerful, shattering scenes are at the moment of truth when it dawns on the players they are pawns and when the villains realize they have been played. All the villains are introduced early on and are layered characters with their own individual strengths and weaknesses that make them very, very dangerous; especially Wang Ou's gorgeously unstable, oddly naive and sadistic Wang Manchun. This casts an shadow of imminent peril around our beloved Ming family's idyllic private moments.
The way Jin Dong portrays Ming Lou, a double agent whose "false face must hide what false heart doth know" stands out among superb performances all around from this exceptional cast. He wears many hats - traitor, patriot, mastermind, mentor, disciplinarian, manipulator, liar, brother and family man. His true feelings and loyalties are revealed only in almost imperceptible changes in expression or gestures as he fluidly manipulates his chess pieces into doing as he wishes. He is the picture of sincerity and devotion as he turns the deadly Wang Manchun into a giddy, lovesick fool with his sweet loving lies. Alas, she misses that flicker in his eye that says he actually loathes and pities her. He keeps Ming Jing in the dark to protect her and only lets Ah Cheng get the closest look at his game plan and true intentions. I don't know why Wang Kai always gets saddled with the role of the most loyal but most obtuse one but I get Jing wang vibes every time is onscreen. I am glad this time he is teamed up with Jin Dong and not Hu Ge. I love their relationship - Ming Lou is at surface a tough mentor but by communicating outcomes, he actually gives Ah Cheng agency to execute his missions as he sees fit. His approach with Ming Tai is completely different - he keeps him at a strictly need to know level and at arm's length but gives him the most difficult tasks with much more limited degrees of freedom to make decisions. Ming Lou is an incredibly complex, smart character but not unrealistically so that things always go as planned. In this high stakes game, the enemy is not stupid and is capable of learning from mistakes. Some of the most riveting moments are when the brothers are cornered and forced to choose between family and their mission, their ideals, their country.
Hu Ge as the sophisticated, dashing and deadly assassin Ming Tai aka the Scorpion takes the meaning of eye candy to a whole new level. Paired up with his life and death partner, the vivid and lethal Yu Manli, they cut a flamboyant and bloodthirsty trail through the highest echelons of their enemy. Hu Ge delivers some extraordinary and memorable moments as Ming Tai, notably his love hate relationship with his lunatic, radical mentor Wang Tianfeng and his complex bond with Yu Manli. However overall, I did not love some aspects of his portrayal and how this character was written. Although I don't mind Hu Ge playing the 20 something Ming Tai initially, this character must be able to grow up and mature, which he does masterfully to become the leader of his espionage unit. It pains me to complain about Hu Ge and to be fair, he was short-changed by the scriptwriting and casting. But the frequent regression into his younger self; a spoilt, pampered and immature youth doesn't sit well with me, especially towards the end and after everything he went through. It does not help that his arguably unnecessary love interest Cheng Jinyun is portrayed by a complete plank of an actress. They did not connect and the romance was so irritating I kept hoping she would tragically run into one of the many stray bullets flying around. Casting a mannequin would have been better than this boring and totally expressionless actress. This is made more stark by the fiery, intense and palpable connection between Ming Tai and Yu Manli. Song Yi absolutely stole the show with her insane, bad-ass articulation of this psychotic, relentless assassin And her chemistry with Hu Ge is off the charts. She is the character I cared the most about in the drama, the one that scared me and broke my heart at the same time.
While hardly the masterpiece that was NIF, this is still an excellent drama and a wonderful way to reconnect with a fantastic cast. Not to mention... ahem... Hu Ge in black tie... I rate this a solid 8.5.
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