Playing Ep 13

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• smartviola98

  Overall 8.5

  Story 8.5,  Acting 9,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 8

  In the ever-challenging realm of television dramas, one recent series exploring the complex world of paid assassins has proven to be an unexpected delight. Having spent a week contemplating this action-packed saga, I can confidently declare that it stands as a riveting piece of entertainment, with a sharpness and execution that has become increasingly rare in its production house's recent offerings.
  
  At the heart of the narrative is a riveting plot set in the murky domain where lethal hitmen lurk, signaling a welcome departure from the...

  mundane to something much more compelling. It unfolds the tales of two formidable figures in this deadly game: an assassin whose prowess was unrivaled until personal disaster struck, precipitating his fall, and signaling the rise of a new, equally skilled successor. Assumed identities involving a punk persona and a café proprietor serve as their public façades.
  
  Integral to the plot are the women who entwine with these men — a single mother with a whimsical yet opportunistic edge who becomes entangled with the top assassin, transforming initial pretenses into genuine connection; and a loyal confidante who offers solace to the once-celebrated hitman during his darkest hours.
  
  The initial episodes weave an intricate tapestry around the assassins' lives, showing immense promise with each cliffhanger. Side narratives are skillfully integrated without detracting from the central theme. Our protagonists' motivations are fleshed out with emotional depth: vengeance, family reconciliation, and maternal dedication are just some of the woven threads that create a compelling watch.
  
  As the climax approaches, a few narrative threads fray, with certain secrets left in the shadows, and the final chapters meander slightly from the initial tight storytelling. While more scenes spotlighting the interaction between the two lead assassins would have elevated the experience, the finale demonstrates a measured approach that culminates in a poignant and well-crafted resolution, bringing the story full circle.
  
  The cast includes two powerhouse performers who draw eyes effortlessly with their persuasive delivery and charismatic presence. Their relationships form the bedrock of the drama — one couple exuding humor and warmth, the other serving up earnest, heartfelt emotion. It is impossible not to note the adaptability and range of the actress portraying the quirky single mother — a testament to her standing as one of the finest talents in the company's roster.
  
  However, the supporting cast presents a mixed bag. Bright spots include an enigmatic and intense role, though some characters struggle with either convoluted development or insufficient backstory. Among the standouts, a vibrant character balances a public life of spirituality with a covert existence and forms a pivotal link in the protagonist's lives, displaying notable depth. Further, the charismatic rapport between the agents and their lethal clientele provides a delightful hint of bromance and comic relief.
  
  The series' soundtrack deserves praise as well, particularly for a track that sets an electrifying tone akin to a cinematic hero’s theme, perfectly priming audiences for the unfolding drama.
  
  Ultimately, this series emerges as a formidable contender for the title of the year, marked by its unexpected twists, superior character development, and stylish execution. The risk of leaning on event sequencing and the characters' actions to propel the storytelling has provided a consistent and rewarding payoff. It sets a high benchmark for subsequent offerings and is a compelling example of what happens when creative risks are taken and pay off handsomely.

• darkuranus87

  Overall 5.5

  Story 6.5,  Acting 7.5,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 1

  This review may contain spoilers
  Captivating Concept, Lackluster DeliveryQuick Thoughts: Imagine a world where the occupation of choice is assassin. A vast, shadowy organization orchestrates assassinations, with diligent managers coordinating jobs and discreet cleanup crews erasing all traces of their existence. While the average citizen remains blissfully unaware, a single, fresh-faced detective suspects something sinister beneath the surface. An original notion for a television series, indeed – something this network has not previously ventured into. Regrettably, as the narrative unfolded, the series' quality diminished.
  
  Narrative: Inconsistencies...

  in character development and subpar scripting plague the series. Clichés run rampant, and predictable turns mar the pacing. Predictability can be a joy if handled with a deft touch, but here it only led to disengagement as I watched, dismayed by the fates of the characters.
  
  The chemistry between 'Zero' and 'Cash' never felt authentic, the former friends with benefits inexplicably becoming passionate lovers without a tangible spark. Characters' intelligence fluctuates to suit plot needs, with savvy assassins inexplicably having lapses in judgment. Significant, startling oversights – such as a billionaire unable to protect themselves (let alone think to hire an assassin in a show about them) or a seemingly invincible villain who blatantly defies established rules of the criminal underworld – detract from the show's credibility.
  
  The narrative is disjointed, with crucial subplots and threats from antagonists like 'Faat Ye' introduced only to be dropped for episodes, diluting their impact. The series struggled to weave the numerous storylines together, resulting in a fragmented narrative where issues could have been resolved with better character interaction.
  
  Characters: 'Sam Sam' stands as a paragon of perfection but is done a disservice by the plot. Her brilliance in emotional intelligence and her logical approach to love was admirable, making her a character viewers root for, yet she remains isolated by the series’ end. Her dynamic with 'Cash' felt greatly imbalanced – it’s puzzling how she tolerated 'Cash''s thankless nature.
  
  'Bingo', a bright spot, provided humor and depth, a contrast to his exploitation by 'Ah Mou'. 'Megan' and 'Parker', collectively a portrait of empathy and tragedy, suffered from a narrative that failed to explore 'Parker''s descent into darkness convincingly.
  
  'Man Man' was hard to sympathize with, as her naivete and subsequent destruction felt unearned and insincere. Her tragedy becomes an exercise in frustration as she persists in blaming 'Zero' and 'Yim Mou' for her choices, undermining their credibility as seasoned assassins.
  
  Conversely, 'Cash' was grating; her existence in this lethal world was baffling, as she was endowed with an inexplicable intellectual prowess and skills that felt out of place with her character.
  
  'Zero' diminished in stature through his unexplainable affection for 'Cash', while 'Yim Mou', referenced humorously by his changing nicknames, fell short with his initial defeatist attitude, though he eventually rallied to his own legend.
  
  Performances: The actors delivered remarkable portrayals, with standouts including Moses, Wayne, and Brian Tse. Moses brought charisma and nuance to 'Zero', elevating the material with his performance. Wayne, a reliable presence, excelled in depicting a character's struggle with demoralization and self-hatred. Brian Tse shone, navigating the complexity of a troubled fortune heir succumbing to a darker nature. Katy Kung's portrayal of a dangerously infatuated assassin impressed with its fervor.
  
  Music: The series boasted an energetic opening theme and a melodious ending score that, while pleasant, seemed slightly out of step with the overarching theme of the narrative.