Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• crazybladerunner

  Overall 7

  Story 7.5,  Acting 8.5,  Music 4,  Rewatch Value 5

  This review may contain spoilers
  In what might be considered a sleeper hit within its network's offerings, this under-the-radar series managed to capture my attention, especially in its initial chapters. The early episodes boasted a blend of suspense and humor that was expertly paced, leaving the audience guessing with developments that were both unexpected and riveting. The unfolding mystery and the dynamic narrative had an undeniable hook. However, the early reveal of the perpetrator led to a subsequent loss of momentum, with subsequent episodes feeling...

  needlessly prolonged.
  
  While the series sought to illustrate the lengths to which a man named Sam would go to shield himself from consequences, certain choices made for his character felt forced and regrettably turned a complex situation into a convoluted one. This included a pivotal action taken against Lai Guo Meng and the tragic collateral damage impacting Gan's family.
  
  In terms of character progression, the focus was less on nuanced growth and more on the plot mechanics, despite the story revolving around Sam's survival instincts spiraling out of control. Shaun Tam's portrayal of Sam was a major highlight—in his nuanced performance, he gave life to a character who walked the line between hero and antihero. Despite this, the character's moral descent didn’t seem as persuasive as might have been intended. Yet, probable accolades are deserved for what is arguably Shaun's most compelling and authentic portrayal to date.
  
  Regarding the romantic subplot involving Sam and Gan, it struggled due to a palpable lack of on-screen chemistry between Shaun and Mandy Wong. Sam's ultimate plea for redemption seemed unearned, as the audience was never privy to the depths of his supposed affection. Their dynamic, while essential to the stakes of the narrative, certainly required greater depth and credibility.
  
  Conversely, the secondary romance involving characters Yat and Sin was a pleasantly unexpected highlight. Despite my previous reservations about one of the actors and my skepticism surrounding their trope-laden relationship, their on-screen connection proved engaging. Vivian's portrayal of Sin was particularly commendable, demonstrating her commitment to authentically representing a deaf character.
  
  Finally, the thematic resonance with another acclaimed series depicting the heavy toll of living with guilt, the transformation of friendships, and the psychological landscape of a hardened city was evident. The nod to one of my personal favorites in the final sequence, which paralleled a memorable imagery from that series, was a satisfying touch. It simultaneously acknowledged its influence and brought the journey full circle, prompting a gratifying smile of recognition from those familiar with the reference.

• ShiningRatatouille41

  Overall 5.5

  Story 5,  Acting 8,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 1

  The series in question offered a captivating journey throughout its tenure, deftly keeping viewers engaged as it delicately unwound its narrative thread. Yet, it stumbled into a sudden apex of events that seemed to derail its previously smooth trajectory. This turn of events considerably dampened my enthusiasm for the series. The concluding segments, in particular, provoked a sense of discomfort, and it's likely that audiences will be polarized in their reactions. From my perspective, it was akin to observing the metamorphosis of the series into...

  something unrecognizable – it was as if I were watching two distinct series past a certain juncture. Nonetheless, I acknowledge the possibility that some viewers may adopt a different lens, one that views the series as a chronicle of one man's inexorable decline.
  
  When it comes to making the decision to delve into this series, it's essential to approach it with a clear understanding of the experience you're signing up for.