Playing Ep 05

What people are saying

• wildjumanji

  Overall 6

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

  **Warning: Spoilers Ahead**
  
  A familiar romantic comedy storyline with a likable twist. The plot follows the reunion of a boy and a girl who were once old acquaintances. As they reunite and begin working together, their relationship blossoms and they unite to pursue their individual dreams.
  
  While watching this series, one may notice similarities to a variety of classic dramas in the genre. Both main characters share a gaming background and a history of online dating, reminiscent of similar plot points in other well-known dramas like "Love...

  oo" and "You are my glory." Additionally, astute viewers may catch glimpses borrowed from "My sunshine" subtly woven into the background of certain scenes, adding a nostalgic touch for fans of these shows.
  
  The lead actors deliver decent performances, though not groundbreaking. Although both actors have showcased more impressive talents in other projects, they manage to carry the story with charm and sincerity.
  
  What stands out in this series is the authentic portrayal of the characters. The main leads are refreshingly normal - not excessively sharp, yet far from unintelligent. Their reactions and decisions feel genuine for the genre, staying true to their roles and circumstances. The relationship between the protagonists remains refreshingly straightforward, with minimal outside interference to complicate their bond. Past misunderstandings serve to strengthen their connection, rather than derail it, adding depth to their journey.
  
  However, the narrative itself may leave viewers with lingering questions. The focus on the female lead's family business, known for its nepotistic hiring practices, introduces an element of incredulity. Despite her lack of experience, she is thrust into a position of authority within the company and swiftly ascends the ranks, a plot point that strains credibility. Alongside her, numerous characters within the company appear adrift, yet somehow manage to keep busy without clear direction or purpose.
  
  One notable drawback is the pacing of the series. Across its numerous episodes, an excess of filler material leads to moments feeling disjointed, as if essential scenes were excised in post-production. Transitions between scenes are abrupt, requiring viewers to fill in the narrative gaps independently. Furthermore, the repetitive use of background music, while initially appealing, eventually becomes grating due to its overuse and lack of smooth transitions.
  
  In conclusion, this series is recommended for those seeking a lighthearted romantic comedy that doesn't demand excessive scrutiny. While it has its flaws, particularly in its storytelling and pacing, it offers an enjoyable escape for fans of the genre.

• sleepysun98

  Overall 10

  Story 9.5,  Acting 9,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 10

  Caution: Some spoilers ahead!
  
  
  
  Stellar Chemistry Alert! What led this series to earn top marks from me? The chemistry between the leads was so captivating that I never imagined rooting for anyone other than Janice Wu's previous counterpart. Despite initial skepticism, this duo swiftly became one of my favorite on-screen couples. The storyline, while seemingly familiar, pleasantly swerved away from tiresome clichés. Bid farewell to the overdone love triangle and the pesky second female lead vying for the male protagonist's attention. Here, the main characters...

  were expertly prioritized, with their relationship's complexities explored in engaging flashback sequences from differing perspectives. Striking a perfect balance between professional ambitions and blossoming romance, the pacing was just right. Not too rushed, not too sluggish—each moment felt purposeful.
  
  The characters shone brightly, particularly Xu Yanshi, who's now rubbing shoulders with the likes of Xie Xhi Yao and Song San Chuan in the coveted "Boyfriend of the Year" category. His portrayal as a composed, mature, and thoughtful individual set a new standard. Kudos to Vin Zhang for breathing life into this role. Janice Wu's performance was equally impressive, seamlessly blending humor, charm, and bravery without falling into the damsel in distress trope. Supportive characters like the tech team, the heroine's grandfather, and the endearing younger brother added depth to the narrative.
  
  Let's talk about the music—it was a knockout! While it's seldom that every soundtrack in a series resonates with me, this one nailed it, with each track hitting all the right notes. The happy conclusion needs no explanation as everyone loves a satisfying ending. To future viewers hesitating to give this series a chance, I urge you to dive in. This delightful romantic comedy stole my heart, earning a spot among my top recommendations. My perfect rating isn't solely based on flawlessness but rather on the series' ability to evoke a myriad of emotions, entertain endlessly, and capture my full attention. So yes, this one comes highly endorsed by yours truly.

• sillycha95

  Overall 8

  Story 7,  Acting 8.5,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 7.5

  Picture a series that kicks off in a whirl of chaos, finds its footing in a solid middle act, and ultimately veers into jingoistic territory for a grand finale. Yes, this series is quite the enigma. It may stumble at the starting line with a muddled narrative, but it gradually hits its stride as the story unfolds. However, it does lose momentum towards the end, descending into overt displays of patriotism and flag-waving.
  
  Let's skip the intricate dissection of the main storyline because, truth be...

  told, it lacks depth. Instead, here are some notable highlights and drawbacks to consider:
  
  On the positive side, the series keeps the drama relatively light. There's a mix of family dynamics, corporate intrigues, and a touch of romantic entanglement, though nothing too earth-shattering. The initial tangled web of misunderstandings may test your patience, but the eventual resolutions are surprisingly well-executed and believable. Once the main couple solidifies their relationship, prepare for plenty of heart-fluttering moments and passionate embraces sans any gimmicky camera tricks.
  
  The performances across the board are commendable, with the lead actors sharing undeniable chemistry. The female lead exudes a mischievous charm and undergoes a satisfying evolution throughout the series, while the male lead brings a blend of handsomeness and charisma to his role. However, the younger cast members' acting can be a bit hit-or-miss, a common occurrence in similar productions. Notably, the inclusion of a gay character breaks the mold, adding a layer of surprise in a landscape where such representations are scarce.
  
  On the flip side, the initial episodes may leave you scratching your head due to the chaotic and somewhat frivolous tone. The inundation of new side characters may only add to the confusion, leading some viewers to abandon ship early on. While the romantic subplot shines with its sweetness and charm, the overarching plot feels somewhat thin, revolving primarily around typical family conflicts, office politics, and business scheming.
  
  Product placement rears its head prominently throughout the series, sometimes in a less-than-subtle manner. From conspicuously placed cold remedies to an array of beauty products, the blatant advertising can distract from the storytelling. The persistent showcasing of a certain Chinese global positioning system borders on excessive, steering the narrative into patriotic territories with fervent speeches on sacrifice and technological superiority. This shift sidelines several characters and subplots, skewing the focus toward this overarching theme.
  
  In conclusion, this series becomes more watchable as it finds its footing beyond the initial confusion. The blossoming romance and the captivating chemistry between the leads offer moments of genuine warmth. Nevertheless, the overt patriotic undertones in the latter episodes may feel out of sync with the overall tone, culminating in a resolution that falls somewhat flat. Tread carefully, for your viewing experience may vary. Farewell for now.

• silentan52

  Overall 9.5

  Story 9,  Acting 10,  Music 9.5,  Rewatch Value 9

  I thoroughly enjoyed the series for various reasons. Firstly, the female protagonist portrayed a refreshing departure from the typical C-drama leading ladies. She exuded maturity, intelligence, readiness, and a unique sense of humor that felt grounded and relatable, rather than the conventional cute and bubbly demeanor often seen in similar dramas. The male lead, known for his cold character archetype, surprised me by showcasing a deeper level of care towards the female lead's reputation and emotions than is typically depicted in this genre. Despite one...

  minor instance of subpar acting by a supporting character, it did not detract from the overall narrative.
  
  The portrayal of the business aspects felt authentically grounded, adding a realistic touch to the series without compromising its dramatic essence. The progression of events felt natural and engaging, keeping me invested in the storyline. My only qualm was with the timing of the main couple's union; I found myself wishing they had come together sooner in the series. At one point, the female lead rebuffs the male lead due to misunderstandings, despite his clear intentions, which felt like an unnecessary delay in their romantic development.
  
  Setting aside this minor setback, the series shines with its captivating portrayal of steamy kisses and genuine displays of affection between the main characters. Their on-screen chemistry added depth and intrigue to their relationship, enhancing the viewing experience.

• wildli76

  Overall 9

  Story 9,  Acting 9,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 10

  An enthralling romantic series from Asia swept me off my feet with its enchanting storyline and remarkable on-screen harmony between the lead characters. What sets this series apart is the depiction of a resilient, self-reliant female protagonist alongside a male lead hailing from a challenging background, creating a compelling dynamic.
  
  The narrative shines through its outstanding character evolution, gradually unraveling misunderstandings and establishing trust between the protagonists. The script expertly delves into the complexities of their circumstances, illustrating how burdens can obstruct effective communication and...

  pose hurdles in their relationship.
  
  Balancing humor and romance seamlessly, the series offers moments that elicit genuine laughter. The transition from friendship to romance unfolds organically, evoking authenticity and warmth. The undeniable chemistry between the leads adds layers to the narrative, capturing viewers' hearts and earning their unwavering support for the characters' bond.
  
  The portrayal of healthy jealousy by the primary characters adds a touch of realism, enhancing the intricacies of their relationship while preserving mutual respect. This element injects depth into their bond, making their journey all the more captivating to witness.
  
  Be prepared for a heart-racing moment when the male lead steals the spotlight with a poignant entrance, uttering words that evoke a shift in the narrative. The peak of chemistry between the protagonists during this scene immerses viewers in a whirlwind of passion and emotion, leaving an indelible impression.
  
  The intensity of their connection, conveyed through raw emotions and compelling performances, culminates in a scene that is bound to evoke a blush even in the most composed viewer. The stellar acting of the cast breathes life into the characters, adding a captivating dimension to the series.
  
  This romantic gem has claimed its place among my favorites, delivering a captivating love story with well-crafted characters, engaging plot twists, and an irresistible chemistry that will keep you invested until the final moment. I wholeheartedly recommend this series to anyone in search of a love story that will enchant and captivate from start to finish.