Not a single second gone to waste, a production truly focused on telling a good story
It's been such a long time where I came across a drama that focuses on telling a good story where every scene is significant from beginning to end! There are surprises around every corner; so many plot twists that make you hesitant to make strong claims in fear that you're proven wrong the next second. If you're looking for a drama focused solely on the romance between the main leads, this is not your drama. Just like the drama team emphasized numerous times, there is no character who is absolutely good or evil. Every character has their own arc with their own motivations and resolve. Everyone plays an important part in this story. This drama tells a story about people, not just a couple. I was amazed to learn that the actors were given the entire script at the start of filming and no revisions or additions were made throughout the filming process. I am so glad that there are still talents like this scriptwriter who gets full respect for their work.I am also very impressed with the leads' acting, they truly brought the characters to life and fully internalized the roles they played. Both are very professional with 10+ years of acting experience. I highly respect Hou Minghao for his perseverance in preserving the integrity of the action/fight scenes. They turned out so authentic, just like the old wuxia dramas from back in the day. Not only did he do the stunts himself, he also communicated lots with the directors on how to deliver scenes in a logical and realistic manner. The opening flaming zhanmadao scene took 3 days to film. He was the one who insisted on taking off all makeup and replacing it with stage blood and real dirt after he saw what was captured on camera. As the only actor without heat protectant on his face, he breathed in the smoke and gave it his all with no complaints. He really wanted to honor the role of a general. He was also the one who came up with the idea to kneel in front of the city gates on his last breath instead of falling in defeat. This scene included shots that were one-take because the (poor) production could only afford one chance at it. This is a drama that proves all you need is "a dollar and a dream."
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Not only extravagance and impactful visuals
It's been weeks since I've finished the series and it is still in my head. Their story is one about navigating good and evil, forming friendships, overcoming prejudices, and much more. Despite knowing how the story would end, I couldn't help but keep watching—dreading how destiny unfolds but at the same time, hopeful that the strength of the bonds between the characters will prevail. There are so many details embedded throughout the episodes that one would definitely find new treasures when rewatching. Not to mention the excellent lyrics of the OSTs (which is undermined through translation) and their fit for the story and characters. As one of the many dramas I have watched this year, Fangs of Fortune will be one for reminiscing for years to come.Was this review helpful to you?
Storytelling method is lacking, but awesome chemistry
Many times, especially in the earlier episodes, I felt disconnected from the plot because certain scenes seem too predictable/cliché. This also happens when there is an excessive use of modern ideology in the story which is understandable because it is catering to a modern, young audience, but doesn't suit the setting. Perhaps its due to the filming technique, I also felt there were too many anti-climatic scenes. There also isn't any memorable OST, I don't even recall much music from watching. But, these technicalities aside, you can't help but awe at the chemistry the main leads have and the outstanding, overall performance from the entire cast.Was this review helpful to you?
