WOW! I think MARS really sets the bar of what is considered a good drama. I'm not entirely sure what I was expecting from MARS before going into it but I must say that it has blown me away. I was surprised at how amazing this drama was, especially being from 2004. I think I generally have a little bit if bias towards any drama in generally made before 2010, especially ones from Taiwan because they generally don't match up to the overall quality of Chinese or Korean dramas. I think what really sets this drama apart from so many others is that is isn't cheesy, its not too far-fetched, it feels very real and I think it speaks to the human experience.
MARS is a poignant love story about two college kids who try to move pasts their own past sufferings and trauma together. It tackles subjects like mental illness, suicide, and rape. I have never seen or heard of another drama that portrays those dark subjects in such a skillful and respectfully done way. I love that there are some minor love triangles going on they are NEVER the main focus of the overarching story-line, nor are they as malicious as other dramas. Also, in many dramas, I feel there is never any character growth, but wow I think every single character has some sort of major character development/ growth.
I think as well, that the actors did such an amazing job. Never did I feel like I was watching someone acting, it all felt real, I also attribute this to the pacing of the story. Hsu Barbie, Chou Vic especially did amazing jobs portraying such deep and complex characters.
Overall, I think this drama has and will continue to age well. The topics in this MARS will always be relevant and relatable to everyone in one way or another. I think there is a little bit of something for everyone to be able to relate to in this drama.