MollySF
Feel good, mature drama- unexpected from C-Dramas
Starting with a compliment- It didn't feel like a Cdrama.
There was no simpering , overly cute, dolled up female character or a rich cold male character. The realism in the characters felt more like a Taiwanese or even a Korean drama. Loved the sports theme which was developed very well, all the characters looked like lean mean sports machines. Loved the way the characters remain in their sports garb, sweatshirts, with very little make up, just how you would expect serious sportspersons to behave.
The acting was to the point and chef's kiss to the leads. They literally carried the story on their shoulders. I am so amazed by Wang An Yu, he is evolving into one of the most competent actors in Cdramas-- note: his Forever Love remains one of my top rated dramas. He brings a rare believability into all the characters he plays. Wishing him all the success.
Same goes for Gina Jin, the FL. However I hope she doesnt do any more noona romances, because her character kept blurring into her last very very similar project, Why women love. Do yourself a favor, Gina, dont get typecast.
The weak point of the drama, is the story... After the confession, the story felt a bit like a documentary.. the narrative was a tad boring and flat. But the first 18 episodes were really good
The biggest issue I was uncomfortable with was the romance between a coach and her student. No it was not a deal breaker, but it made me think deeply about how most of us in the West, Korea, Japan and even global south would not be comfortable with a romance between a teacher and student. I think we are all very sensitized to asymmetry of power in the post me-too era . I know for sure that a romance between a teacher and student would not get produced by any Hollywood studio. I think maybe China still hasn't received the dispatch on this .
I esp appreciate the attempt to use pop numbers with English lyrics. This nod to the growing English speaking audience is worth applause. Not that the lyrics are of high quality, no indeed, some are poorly constructed, but the thought counts!!
Overall a very good satisfying watch
There was no simpering , overly cute, dolled up female character or a rich cold male character. The realism in the characters felt more like a Taiwanese or even a Korean drama. Loved the sports theme which was developed very well, all the characters looked like lean mean sports machines. Loved the way the characters remain in their sports garb, sweatshirts, with very little make up, just how you would expect serious sportspersons to behave.
The acting was to the point and chef's kiss to the leads. They literally carried the story on their shoulders. I am so amazed by Wang An Yu, he is evolving into one of the most competent actors in Cdramas-- note: his Forever Love remains one of my top rated dramas. He brings a rare believability into all the characters he plays. Wishing him all the success.
Same goes for Gina Jin, the FL. However I hope she doesnt do any more noona romances, because her character kept blurring into her last very very similar project, Why women love. Do yourself a favor, Gina, dont get typecast.
The weak point of the drama, is the story... After the confession, the story felt a bit like a documentary.. the narrative was a tad boring and flat. But the first 18 episodes were really good
The biggest issue I was uncomfortable with was the romance between a coach and her student. No it was not a deal breaker, but it made me think deeply about how most of us in the West, Korea, Japan and even global south would not be comfortable with a romance between a teacher and student. I think we are all very sensitized to asymmetry of power in the post me-too era . I know for sure that a romance between a teacher and student would not get produced by any Hollywood studio. I think maybe China still hasn't received the dispatch on this .
I esp appreciate the attempt to use pop numbers with English lyrics. This nod to the growing English speaking audience is worth applause. Not that the lyrics are of high quality, no indeed, some are poorly constructed, but the thought counts!!
Overall a very good satisfying watch
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