Reviews

Welcome to Thunderdome - Challenge Accepted!

Wuxia, wuxia, wuxia! Score! To be honest, I wasn't even going to pick it up originally because other then Xing Fei a bit, I didn't know anyone in the cast. But the fact that recommended sources told me that if I wanted a real wuxia that was written by someone well known for the genre, this was it. And I'm so glad I did. This was close to absolutely everything I had hoped this genre would be. Welcome to Thunderdome - challenge accepted!

Pros: Though I usually start this section with outlining my favorite characters, I have to begin by praising my favorite portion of the series; the martial arts! Absolutely fantastic and in just about every single episode or every other one. Every character performed very well when it came to those scenes, it made you just want to cheer for our heroes when they bagged another slime ball. I can't say enough about how much I personally loved the physicality of each sequence, each fight, each battle. I'd give those scenes 10s easily.

Favorite character was MRF; he was beautifully written and executed to perfection by his actor. This man was essentially living or existing in self-loathing and torture over the death of his sworn brother and wife. Running all over the world trying to find the truth of who the real killer was, was evident with every slump of his shoulders, every fruitless trip he made; seemed that with every betrayal, his eyes got gloomier and more despair filled. Only when he had his daughter did that ease a little bit but even until his dying breath he was protecting the ones he cared for and swore to protect and executing his revenge on the villain who sadly was right in front of him the entire time. A real man of honor. Didn't hurt that he looked like D'Artagnon from The 3 Musketeers with the long hair and goatee.

HF, our ML was also great especially as they showed him growing and maturing. Do wish he was less gullible sooner but those are small fries. As he traveled around and met more martial artists and just soaked up the knowledge and won each time he was put to the test, it was a cheerful moment, kind of like a goal at a soccer match. Probably the most touching moment for me in the entire series was when MRF knelt down and put his hand on HF's neck before he went to finish off TGN in episode 39. That real connection between sworn uncle and nephew, I wish it lasted forever. HF by that time knew MRF was innocent of his parents' deaths and MRF was finishing his vengeance and honoring the oath he made to HF's mother, to protect him. MRF's ultimate sacrifice to save HF and the others, I felt was a bit unnecessary as they could have escaped together as is. Though perhaps to him, death was actually more suitable to release him from all of the agony he'd lived with mentally and psychologically through the years knowing his daughter had her mother to take care of her. He could literally rest in eternal peace. So that one is a catch 22; what's better for the audience or the character.

Both of the female leads did very well. I really liked that though there were romantic feelings whirling around, romance wasn't forced into this series. It was a sad ending for all in that capacity but it did serve a purpose. I do wish things were written differently and that will be discussed below. If I had to choose, I do wish HF ended up with ZY as they had the most chemistry and there was no need to show sparks and whatnot; subtle love is fine too. Both women had their own strengths and helped HF grow while they were with him. Just like other people he met along the way, he became a hero in his own right because of the experiences ZY and CLS gave him.

Other favorite characters included official Zhou and his brothers; they were very smart when it came to their own self interests and when it was time to come and go; they were quite comical at times. The other sect leaders and brothers HF met along the way who taught him stuff and backed him up. I did like MCH but she really wasn't a smart person. In the absolute plethora of villains, the most convincing ones were vampire poison and TGN, though I do wish TGN had way less screen time.

Production was beautiful; from costumes, weapons, styling, sets and some of the OSTs. Very little to pick apart in this section.

Cons: This series nearly became the second costume drama to get a perfect score if it wasn't for the final episodes. This is where the really awesome pacing of the entire series became a runaway horse of we need to tie up every loose end somehow even if it looks completely bizarre. How did MCH know what was happening that she appeared on the gate tower to keep the gates open only to jump down and get shot with an arrow? They were so determined to kill her that this completely in-cohesive situation was created. Did she grow wings, learn telepathy, manifest a sword? It was so out of left field, one had no words. Also the swords vs rifles scenes just seemed very weird; bullets will kill a lot faster then a sword will unless you're a master martial artist or sacrificing yourself to protect others like MRF did.

Let's backtrack a bit to the idiot father-son duo whose arc took forever to end, the nun who essentially manipulated her disciple aka ZY into following her into becoming a nun too, instead of letting her follow her heart and be with HF. I hope the nun doesn't turn MCH's kids into monks but lets them choose their own paths as was decided by both their father and HF. There seemed too much heavy-handed approaches to situations that didn't need them. TGN and NL had way too much screen time and that was really the only time the drama got slightly boring; though she learned the truth in the end and chose the right path, she was too dumb for too long. Though TGN was one of the biggest villains, he was so annoying and childish, you wanted to shove him off a cliff the minute you met him. You knew immediately he was not a good person and that just snowballed from there.

Returning to the last episode, why couldn't CLS's death be written better? They literally waited until then to have her face off against vampire poison and his puny disciples; then when she starts to save HF who of course intervened to save her, she paralyzes him leaving him struggling, gaping like a fish out of water while she does her final monologue? It was all very inconsistent and haphazard. I think she deserved a better end since they decided on that. Killing vampire poison in a flashback HF has in the final maybe 5 minutes of the show was also very lackluster and unsatisfactory considering who he was and what he had done. Literally the last 1.5 episodes of this entire series botched what would have been a perfect score but otherwise the show was/is really great!

Would I recommend it? Absolutely, 100%! The last 1.5 episodes notwithstanding and a few parts in the middle, this series hit every aspect of a terrific wuxia. As far as I'm concerned, the challenge was met, accepted, and won!

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First off, i will admit that I've never been much of a fan on shonen. Whether its anime or drama,I've always preferred watching romance. For someone like me, who only prefers romance dramas, i fell in love with this!

Yes, the movie definitely changed some things from the anime. But what movie doesn't? Especially for anime, some things would look a little weird without changing it while doing the live action. And this way, you're not watching the exact same thing. I found both the anime and the movie very entertaining, and i recommend both.

The acting in this was also really great! The actor who played Light was very impressive, I could see where he was coming from, and what type of personality he had easily. L was played really good too! I'm team L all the way, and never once was on Light's side!

So if your considering whether to watch it or not,here is what i suggest: if you are an avid anime fan keep an open mind that there are changes to the movie. If you've never seen the anime, i suggest watching that first. That way the movie won't spoil you with what will happen. Or vice versa. Whichever you prefer. Hoped this helped!

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What an outstanding chamber play with two extremely gifted, stellar actors

Father's House" has two episodes only.
What an outstanding chamber play, though!

With two extremely gifted, stellar actors. Choi Min-soo, already living acting legend at that time, and Kim So-hyun, then just in the starting blocks for fame. Choi Min-soo and Kim So-hyun deliver an unforgettably intense, mature performance and thus the authentically touching portrait of a dear, profound, yet often clumsy father-son relationship over a period of more than 2 centuries.

Male feelings are the focus. The heroes in "Father's House" are men of simple, humble origin - with either a gruff, rough and rumbling or withdrawn demeanor of hidden feelings that are rather reluctant and probably seldom felt, let alone shown. However, having feelings and showing emotions is allowed in this KDrama. It's difficult to deal with, yes, but it's possible. Necessary even.

Emotional sincerity has a liberating effect. The three male protagonists - son, father (and his adopted father) - actually become role models. "Father's House" came as a distinct year-end television show at the turn of the year 2009 - with reruns after that...

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This new 2020 drama is another fantasy, wuxia romance that everybody needs to watch. Typical of IQiyi productions, My Fantastic Mrs. Right, is a light hearted, well written, fantasy/wuxia drama that delivers plot-wise, production-wise, and acting wise.

The plot is well written, problems and angst are not overdrawn and resolved at a satisfying rate. The leads have great chemistry and their love story doesn’t take a long time to develop (surprise in ep3) but is still believable. The writter and director was also very generous on the kiss scenes (>.<). The romantic scenes may not be as steamy as in Eternal Love but it’s still as sweet as it can get.

For everybody looking for fantasy wuxia series, watch this as this has probably THE BEST HAPPY ENDING you can hope for.

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Without much expectation nor anticipation for the drama , I decided to check out the said drama as it was available on one of the App I was using for viewing. Truth to be told, episode 1 gave me a hesitant feeling whether or not to proceed with the drama. it was fun and an enjoyable ride however it made me question its 'purpose'. BUT wait, don't ever think of dropping this one. J-drama fan or not, it is the type of drama anyone can sit back and enjoy. No lies there. Don't question at all, Confidence Man JP is not the type of drama where you need to do much thinking but instead it is the type of drama you should pick up when you're totally exhausted, stressed, or depressed.

The cinematography is something you'd see in Fuji TV Dramas? Nothing exceptional however the lighting helps with the 'feel' or 'atmosphere' of the show, giving it a warm and lighthearted feel. Music-wise, it is a drama where nostalgic songs such as GreeeN's Kiseki would play..why? You'd have to find out for yourself.

That's right, this drama isn't just about the entertainment and thrill the three characters may give you on screen but it also displays a lot of morals for the viewers. What's true happiness? Does Money really matter? and so on.

Actors? The likes of Konihata Fumiyo is someone you will typically see in all sorts of drama but his portrayal of Richard leaves an impression! Truly, I do not think Richard will appear as a seemingly 'gentleman' if it weren't for the tone of his voice and his image. This is followed by Higashide Masahiro who has been gaining much popularity in the Japanese Acting Industry as of late, well.. what do you expect, Higashide will make a character as charming as he is! The gullible Boku-chan is one of the highlights of the show so do look out for him. Last but not the least ( as you'd have to consider the wonderful guests each episode offers), Nagasawa Masami. She has never been in my list of favorite actresses as her previous acting skills did not 'wow' me at all despite her long stay in the industry but if you have seen her acting or state back then, then you could pretty much see how much she's grown over the years. With that said, I can finally say Dako won't be as fun as Dako without her cheeky and bright portrayal. She truly shined in this role and she fits it 100%. No overacting from the three at all. so rest assured.

Overall, it was fun.. it was fun to the point that once the drama hit its final episode, I was too sad to bid goodbye to the three characters. The ending was well-played too.

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Finding Yourself

Aristocrats tells the story of two women from different social classes, family backgrounds, and outlook on life who embark on a journey of self-discovery and finding their place in the world, amidst the constraints of familial expectations, gender discrimination, class system and traditional values that are deeply ingrained in Japanese society, particularly amongst the upper class or, in the context of the film, the aristocrats.

Based on the novel Ano Ko wa Kizoku by award-winning author and essayist Mariko Yamauchi, which was serialised in the monthly magazine Syosetsu Subaru in 2015 and published as a book in 2016. Yukiko Sode, who is a notable indie-film director, wrote the screenplay adaptation and directed the film. Yasuyuki Sasaki serves as cinematographer while Takuma Watanabe composed the original score. Aristocrats had its world premiere at the 33rd Tokyo International Film Festival in 2021.

What I Appreciated

The character-driven and female-centric narrative is told from the perspectives of the two women, Haibara Hanako and Tokioka Miki, structured in a converging parallel plot format. Certain flashback sequences are involved but, for the most part, a linear storytelling approach is adopted which preserves the overall cohesion and coherence of the multiple POVs. A number of themes concerning conservative social constructs, narrow mindsets and stereotypes are manifested while the concepts of marriage, friendship and love are also explored to a certain extent.

Running at just over 2 hours, this film covers quite an extensive scope but gives the impression of taking its time to allow the various elements to breathe and gradually sink in. Nothing ever feels rushed or abrupt as the tempo of the storytelling remains delicately poised all throughout. This aspect is complemented by the equally subtle cinematography technique that renders a series of exquisitely framed moments. A more subdued colour grading is employed with a slight textured effect that filters the warmer colour palettes. The gently imbued orchestral accompaniment that induces an introspective mood provides the finishing touches to the end product - a motion picture that showcases visual aesthetics and technical artistry.

Where the production truly shines lies in the exceptional cast performances, particularly that of the main leads. Kadowaki Mugi and Mizuhara Kiko are hugely impressive in their respective portrayals of Haibara Hanako and Tokioka Miki. Understatedly emotive and compellingly nuanced, these two fine actresses certainly possess the gravitas to utterly enliven the entire film with their commanding screen presence. My only qualm is that I wished both had more scenes together.

Final Thoughts

Aristocrats, at its core, represents an in-depth character study of the internal struggles of two young women against the backdrop of a deeply traditional society amidst the hustle-and-bustle of cosmopolitan Tokyo. It is bittersweet yet inspiring and the story eventually ends on a high note which provides a fitting closure where both leads finally discover their true worth and find their place in the world. This has been a truly evocative viewing experience.

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If you expect something similar to Kanako - it's not, you might be disappointed so be aware.

That having said, the movie touches some taboo issues, but take them in the most natural way possible. it shows a dysfunctional man whose life goes even further away from from what can be called normal as he starts to live with a girl who has lost everything due to natural catastrophe. There are very few supporting characters and the background story remains vague which adds to the mysterious character of the movie.

It is slow paced, so you've got to be prepared for this. The viewer is supposed to feel the climate rather than be shocked and rushed through series of events. So take a good time for this two hours of tragic drama. And try to get swallowed by the emptiness of the coldest parts of Hokkaido.

The acting is superb. We've got two very different actors, acting-style wise, age wise, who managed to create an amazing emotional blend that creates a kind of awkward harmony. Needless to say, Asano Tadanobu greatness is very much visible here and he suits Jungo's character very well. On the other hand, very young Nikaido Fumi proves once again how versatile actress she is.
The few supporting ones are good as well and create rather coherent background.

Music is again a background issue that basically helps to set the mood and proves it really well.

As a summary, one more time: do not expect fireworks, if you look for entertainment it hardly there. But if you don't mind that you might get tangled up in something disturbingly beautiful.

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This is the new STANDARD

I wasn't 100% sure what my overall rating would be but as I was ticking off all the marks, I realised that everything was near perfection and deserves a 8.5.

The music in this show was incredibly diverse and although I appreciate Thai artists being used in Thai shows, the fact that they used English music kind of made it a deeper experience for me. I guess you don't realise how much the lyrics of a song makes a difference when it plays in the background. You unintentionally relate those lyrics to what is happening in the moment. For this reason, the music was a 9.5/10.

The acting and plot was phenomenal and original. There wasn't a boring moment in this show and it really hit all the right markers.

The scene where Yok is doing a nude portrait of Dan is one of my favourite scenes in the show. It was so vulnerable and really set this precedent for BLs to follow. Instead of it focusing on steamy scenes and desires, this show actually showed a deeper meaning which was perfectly worded when Dan said 'I feel like I'm confessing my sins'. 10/10.

Also, the relationship between White and Sean was so naturally introduced. No confusion in what they were feeling, no regret or worry. They just accepted it as naturally as one should accept feelings for another. They didn't hide it from anyone and were so open to what they were feeling. Also, I love that both of them made sure eachother wanted the same thing. Basically, I love the CONSENT.

Great representation of the qommunity (get it.. haha queer community... qommun... anyways you get it). We had some beautiful raindbow flags in some scenes which I love <3

However, it wouldn't be a fair review if I didn't touch on the negatives...
I was a little disappointed with how they reintroduced Black into the story once he woke up. He kind of left the gang after he woke up which just doesn't make sense since he's the one that started it. If anything, I would have liked him to see that what White had done was working better than his plan but it was a little disappointing how he then continued on his own.

The ending was a little disappointing as well. They spent the entire show trying to take down Tawi but in the end, all of their efforts seemed to just be a symbol for society to stand up. We didn't have an epic scene where Tawi got taken in by police which I was looking forward to.

Also, I didn't fully understand why Dan all of a sudden changed his mind and went to arrest them. Like I get that someone powerful told him that he needs to step in line but AS IF that would be enough to scrap all your efforts and the effort of someone you supposedly love.

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Surprisingly I loved it!!!

This is a bizarre series, slow-paced and sweet in its own -um unique- way!


I will try to explain why I like this series so much, even though admittedly it had its shortcomings. Personally, I like the main couple and their dynamics. It is one of those rare times that we get the chance to see a couple of two similar personalities that suit and complement each other. Both MLs are introverted, quiet and a little bit depressed. I enjoyed how they seemed to attempt to achieve a more happy outlook and get some goals in their lives -especially Mon- through each other's influence. The dedication they both showcase to each other and the support and friendship that progressively turns into something else were the wining points for me. If you're looking for an intense romance, full of declarations of undying love or jealousy outbursts, this would not be your cup of tea. But if you like to see how a very closed off, nearly antisocial guy re-opens up his heart through the care and support of the one person that strives to help them resume following their dreams, then maybe you'd love this as much as I did.
Also, it is notable that the second lead here not only isn't annoying and exhausting as usual, but he's lovely and his intense feelings for the ML do not go unnoticed by the viewer. He is so lovable and honest that you find yourself supporting him and wishing to see him happy and loved as well.
The music was maybe the most bizarre part of the whole series. At times I tried to decide if it even fit the scenes or made them more awkward but after a point I got used to it. Also, having Soh being a music major and having his own band, I think maybe they could have developed their music choices more. This, however, in addition to the long pauses in several scenes. gave you the time to get into the characters' mentality and inner thoughts.
In general, this series is a breath of fresh air that will give you some time to think, relax and appreciate what most of us take for granted everyday. The cinematography is very well done, and the characters are complex and flawed. I got really invested while this series was airing and the excitement for what would come next never left me. They did follow some cliché patterns that could have been avoided, but as it was very mild in terms of the shock element, those moments gave us the chance to get to know the characters and their feelings better. The ending for me was the perfect way to end this series and suited both characters but also the reality of such a relationship! I hope more people give this series a chance and can enjoy it as much as I did!

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Finally a Cdrama that's well done - thank you! Finally, an mature storyline & great story!

Story: Divorce lawyers of opposing sides find the love spot as they both work though the bad luggage they acquired from previous relationships. Not a new storyline, just a well acted and directed story.

Actors: Main leads chemistry was simply delicious and heartfelt. The side actors (and their stories) were well matched and performed.

Music: well matched and placed

This drama might resonate with any viewer who has been through any major life events and survived to be better on the other side. The leads have magnetic chemistry which make this so delightful to watch.

Rewatch: 46eps is long to rewatch but I might hop around to view episodes to keep these characters and their journey as a reminder on some key life points on love, marriage, divorce and smiles. Well done drama.

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While it isn't rare to have cdramas these days that are focused more on the women of the drama than the men, it's rare to have one done well and where the lead doesn't have to choose to be successful at work or successful in love. This drama takes on the ever typical arrogant, bossy CEO and secretary pairing, and puts such a refreshing spin on it.

TSY shines in her role as Ning Meng, our feisty, stubborn and kind to fault dreamer that starts out as a secretary to a successful businessman but ends up becoming a boss woman in her own right. We are given a front row seat to her growth from the very start to the end and you'll find yourself cheering her on through all the trials and struggles she endures. I've always been a fan of TSY (and it was because of this that I even started this drama in the first place) and this has turned into one of her best roles to date. She is perfectly casted as Ning Meng and undoubtedly, it's her charm and likability that makes this drama so good.

I'm not the biggest fan of LGX and will issue a warning that he is completely unlikable as Lu JiMing for the first ten or so episodes. You'll find yourself wanting to hit him, trip him down a flight of stairs and throw a drink (or five) at his smug face. In that sense, LGX has done a great job in his role. However, as much as this is a drama about Ning Meng's growth in her career, it's also a drama about Lu JiMing's individual growth from becoming an arrogant CEO who takes his temper out on everyone around him to becoming a truer version of himself that learns how to communicate and be more honest. As awful as his mouth is, he's someone with integrity, grit, and a good investor (but a terrible boss).

Many will say that the romance is lacking in this and they would be right. This isn't your standard lovey-dovey romance with lots of cooing and kissing, but a drama with one of the most realistic takes on love and relationships. The secondary female lead isn't an awful scheming woman but a mature one that knows herself and knows when to retreat. The secondary male lead is a bit more challenging but an important reminder that love isn't the be all end all and not an ultimate savior.

Perhaps it's the advantage of having both a female director behind the lens and a female scriptwriter but for once, I truly felt that this was a drama that was focused on the female lead and not just the female lead in relation to the male lead. A truly solid 8.5 drama but a 9 for the fact that it doesn't fall back on the typical romantic stereotypes and manages to inspire and end with one of the most satisfying endings for a drama I've seen.

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We will feast on the enemies flesh and drink their blood.

Full River Red is an ancient dark comedy whodunit set in Song dynasty. It is Zhang Yimou's most commercially successful movie to date That is no reason to dislike it. For Zhang Yimou never fails to stun with the sheer brilliance of his cinematic vision and his ability to provoke and capture profound human emotions. It is his narrative style that tends to be weighed down by illogical, at times exaggerated plot points and inconsistent characterisations that rarely does justice to his incisive camera language. While there are traces of these habits, this twisty, stab-happy mystery is the tightest plot I have seen from him in years.

As much as the critical political and societal undertones of Zhang's earlier works discomfited the Chinese government, his recent works are now accused of pandering to government propaganda. Every Western film critic has remarked upon the movie's jingoist note with a sense of unease. The Chinese title Mǎnjiānghóng/满江红 or crimson river sets the tone from the start. This eponymous poem attributed to patriot Yue Fei is ubiquitous; it spoke to me even before I could understand its prose. People's hero Yue Fei was a revered Song general who relentlessly defended his homeland against the invading Jurchens. He was betrayed by the enemy within, a jianchen/奸臣 treacherous official Qin Hui who goes on to be prime minister. What happened to Yue Fei is one of history's terrible injustices, one that still resonates eight hundred years later. The common people appeased their deep sense of sorrow and thirst for justice by deep frying dough sticks in oil yóu zhá guǐ/油炸鬼 or deep fried guǐ/ 鬼 or devil, which in Cantonese is a homonym for Hui/Kuai/桧 in Qin Hui. When I was a kid, my dad used to rant about the dastardly Qin Hui every time we bit into his favorite crispy fried dough sticks.

The movie opens four years after the unjust death of Yue Fei. A Jin envoy is murdered on the eve of his meeting with Prime Minister Qin Hui. The important missive he carried is missing. The unfortunate night patrol is put under the knife as heads must roll for this diplomatic disaster. Desperate to buy time, corporal Zhang Da convinces Deputy Commander Sun Jun that he may be of value in solving the case. They make some small progress and are given two hours by Qin Hui himself to recover the missing missive. Thus begins a high-strung, knives drawn chase through the serpentine military compound as they question unreliable witnesses and fend off duplicitous officials vying to get their nefarious hands on the missing letter.

In a departure from Zhang Yimou's signature, bombastic color drenched cinematic style, the palette is muted, somber and haunting in its clean lines and simple, gorgeous grey toned soberness. There is a sense of profound gravitas that overhangs the thrill and suspense of unraveling the conspiracy at hand. The pacing is start stop as the narrative slows down enough to allow important plot points to soak in only to pick up again to the tune of a clattering amalgamation of hip-hop and Chinese folk music as they race through the complex to pin down the next clue. The body-count piles up as suspects are dispatched suddenly and brutally with dark humor that is as sharp as the knife play. I won't spoil the ending other than to say it is wildly, enormously satisfying and yet it still respects history.

In terms of the cast, it really doesn't get better than this. I was surprised by Shen Teng and Jackson Yi's chemistry and how humorously they convey just the right mix of conflict, mistrust and empathy. I must applaud both Lei Jiayin and Zhang Yi for taking on roles outside their comfort zone. I could see that Lei Jiayin absolutely relished playing the vilest most hated villain in Chinese history. While far from the monster of my childhood imagination, his Qin Hui is still a wicked, cunning creature but also realistic, mortal and even almost human. To me, the memorable highlight of the drama was to watch one of China's very best actors recite the titular poem. Yes it is a very patriotic poem but its message is universal - everyone loves their country for better or worse and will defend it with every ounce of their being. This is the one time that Zhang Yimou's famous digressions is actually fitting and gives a deeper meaning to the story. The movie's big message is also universal; that there are some truths that must be revealed at whatever cost.

This movie hits all the right buttons for me - a dark comedy conspiracy thriller with a touch of wild history around characters that set my imagination and sense of right and wrong afire as a child. It smacks of Zhang Yimou's hallmark provocative brilliance with small flaws and is one of the rare times I enjoyed his storytelling almost as much as his visual composition style. This is an 8.5/10.0 for me.

Full River Red (follows the toned down movie translation):

My last words reflect my thoughts
Full river red
My hair bristles with anger
I lean against the rail
The rain has stopped
Looking at the sky
I let out a cry
Emotions well up in my chest
My achievements in the past are merely dust
I fought bravely with the clouds and the moon
Don't wait
When your hair turns grey you can only regret
The national shame has not been avenged
When can my hatred be wiped away
Riding war chariots we will tumble the Helan Mountains
We will feast on the enemies flesh and drink their blood
When we recover our lost lands
We will satisfy people's demands

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Whodunit

Despite the rather unimaginative title, Who is the Murderer tells you exactly what this drama is about without the need to check the genres, tags or even read the synopsis. The thing with whodunits is the less you know heading into it, the better for your overall viewing enjoyment. In fact, I would suggest that you skip the synopsis entirely to avoid being spoilered.

What I did know beforehand though was that this drama is the third entry to iQiyi Mist Theatre’s Light On series for 2021. For the uninitiated, the Mist Theatre Light On series which was launched in 2020 focuses on high quality thrillers (typically crime) presented in short format (around 16 episodes or less). At least, that is the planning intent by the Chinese OTT provider. Unfortunately the first two offerings of the year, The Pavilion and Wisher, IMHO, didn’t live up to the high standards set as far as the quality of the screenplay is concerned and in comparison with some of last year’s higher-rated productions. The good news, however, is that Who is the Murderer finally broke that trend and turned out to be the best yet, of this year's batch. How the fourth drama in the series, Gold Panning, compares when it airs later this week remains to be seen.

Principal photography for the drama began in August 2020 with Wuxi serving as the primary filming location and the setting for Haizhou City, both of which are located in Jiangsu province. The director helming this production needs no introduction for he is none other than Sun Hao, who famously directed the much-loved Joy of Life. The plot is based on an original screenplay by Chen Wei Han and Kong You You.

A neo noir psychological crime thriller focusing on the mystery of unsolved serial murders that span a period of 17 years, from 2000 to 2017. The plot revolves around three main characters - Leng Xiao Ping, the hardboiled Violent Crimes detective who is haunted by the past; Xia Mu, the promising young police recruit with demons of his own; and finally Shen Yu, the enigmatic psychologist with her own hidden motivations. All three somehow discover an inextricable connection to the unsolved murders.

What I Liked

This drama is slow burn yet gripping where the suspense never truly lets up once it grabs a hold of you. The pilot episode starts off very strongly with frantic action and extreme urgency that establishes the background of the mystery. From the second episode on, it eases into an engaging tempo where the story transitions into the present day. The plot features a number of unexpected twists that are smartly written and delicately revealed. Utterly surprising yet makes total sense, with neither the fanfare nor suspension of disbelief. I especially enjoyed the subtle cat and mouse games that ensues between the three characters.

The roles are very well crafted, where each of the three main characters is given much depth and complexity. Merely stating that they are extremely grey with many dimensions doesn’t do justice to the elaborate characterization. The same can be said of the other characters, whether in a supporting capacity or simply guest appearance. Not a single character appears out of place in this drama.

The acting well and truly breathes life into the characters without compromising the ingenuity of the design. In Zhao Li Ying’s second appearance this year since Legend of Fei and after the birth of her son in 2019, her portrayal of Shen Yu is perhaps one of the finest in her career. Nuanced, sophisticated, calculated, and profoundly complicated. This drama wouldn’t be the same without her masterful performance.

Likewise Xiao Yang who plays the detective, Leng Xiao Bing. Aside from the brief instances of levity, the level of street smarts that he infuses into his character is convincingly smooth. His version of hardboiled isn’t overly gritty and actually comes across as quite affable. My first time seeing Dong Zi Jian and his depiction of Xia Mu is quite interesting, to say the least. He manages to convey the necessary emotions in face of challenges that his character gradually goes through, in the course of the story.

The production design is top notch, in terms of the cinematography technique and framing of the visuals, as well as the art direction. I love the application of softer colour grading, as opposed to the typical edgy darker schemes of noir productions. Additionally, the flow of the storytelling is not interrupted by the infusion of flashback sequences and references to the earlier timeline.

As far as the music is concerned, I enjoyed Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata during the stylish title sequence and the outro theme by Jin Minqi. Full listing as follows:

Moonlight Sonata
藏 Hide - 金玟岐 Jin Minqi
藏 Hide - 徐明浩 Xu Minghao
你看 Look - 金志文 Jin Zhiwen

What Could Have Been Better

In terms of the technical execution, the editing is somewhat inconsistent where certain scene transitions do not appear as seamless as it should to match the general quality of the camerawork.

The conceptual vibe of the storytelling is quite pronounced throughout the drama, which may compel viewers to strain their concentration in making the connection to certain plot points. This appears to be a stylistic choice rather than a deliberate attempt to dramatize the depiction of events. Sometimes it works and at other times, it becomes somewhat confusing.

As much as I have enjoyed Dong Zi Jian’s performance, I feel that his appearance does not suitably match his characterization at times. He looks more like a college kid than a promising police recruit or probationary detective. His mannerism as well as propensity to disregard authority and instructions are somewhat jarring compared to the other characters who appear more believable in their roles.

Finally, the ending. It did feel somewhat underwhelming. I honestly anticipated a more mind-blowing conclusion to the whole overarching mystery...

Overall

Notwithstanding the criticisms, Who is the Murderer represents a return to relative form of iQiyi’s Light On series and is one of the stronger C-drama thrillers to be released this year. It may not be flawless and while it doesn't end as strongly as it starts, I do appreciate the intricacies of the storytelling and the compelling performances of the leads, particularly that of Zhao Li Ying.

Leggi di Più

A simple and beautiful story about love and grief

This movie will be in my memories for a very, very long time.

The whole storyline was nothing out of the ordinary, but that was precisely why it works. It was so, so relatable that it hurts to think about because it reminded me of my own experience in life with my grandparents.

I cried throughout the entire movie. The cinematography was gorgeous, and reminiscent of growing up in an Asian household.

I highly recommend this movie. But it's definitely not everyone's cup of tea. If you're a fan of the slice of life genre, then this movie is for you.

Nothing dramatic happens throughout the movie, it just tells a story about a grandmother who is dying, and how the family deals with the aftermath of the heartbreaking news.

Leggi di Più