Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• mightymeerkat

  Overall 8

  Story 8,  Acting 8,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 7

  Upon diving into the latest addition to the fiery series, my initial skepticism was quickly extinguished by the captivating storytelling and well-rounded characters that unfolded before me. In stark contrast to its predecessor, which heavily relied on dramatic twists and turns, this installment takes a refreshing new approach by placing the spotlight on the challenging world of firefighting itself.
  
  Kudos to the writers and researchers for delving deeper into the mechanics and tools of the trade, shedding light on lesser-known facets of the fire bureau such...

  as the airport firefighting station and naval stations. The meticulous attention to detail in portraying the "fires" and "explosions" not only added thrills but also lent a sense of realism to the show.
  
  The characters in this installment are a far cry from the one-dimensional archetypes of the past. Wong Hei's portrayal is a standout, breathing life into a character who evolves from complacency to a newfound sense of responsibility. His unwavering dedication to his daughter serves as a poignant anchor throughout the series, showcasing a depth of character rarely seen on screen.
  
  While the absence of female firefighters is lamentable, the introduction of Yee, portrayed brilliantly by Maggie Cheung, injects a fresh dynamic into the narrative. Yee's character arc is a testament to Cheung's acting prowess, as she navigates a range of emotions and challenges with grace and authenticity.
  
  The love triangle subplot, while initially irksome, ultimately serves as a catalyst for growth and maturity among the characters involved. The evolution of relationships and the nuanced performances by the cast add layers of complexity to an otherwise conventional storyline.
  
  Notably, the theme song sets the tone for this installment, trading in simplistic bravery for a more introspective exploration of the firefighters' inner struggles and unwavering courage. Aaron Kwok's raw vocals lend a poignant touch to the lyrics, underscoring the multidimensional nature of the characters and their experiences.
  
  In sum, this series strikes a delicate balance between the professional demands of firefighting and the emotional journeys of its characters, weaving them together seamlessly with a sophisticated touch. A standout in the realm of television drama, this installment proves to be a compelling and memorable viewing experience. (It's a shame that the subsequent installment failed to live up to its predecessors' standards.)