Playing Ep 08

What people are saying

• boldlin

  Overall 7

  Story 8,  Acting 9,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 6

  Warning: This critique contains spoilers.
  
  Immersing myself in this series, I was drawn in by the magnetic performances of Dilraba and Ma Ke, two exceptional talents I greatly admire. Despite the plethora of existing reviews, I prefer to form my own conclusions. The heart of this series lies in its emphasis on action, competition, and the exploration of teamwork dynamics, relegating romance to a secondary role. Unexpectedly, the most captivating relationship unfolds between the two LHSD instructors. The narrative unfolds intriguingly with a complex web of...

  romantic entanglements, showcasing a love triangle and the unnerving persistence of a certain character towards the protagonist.
  
  However, a few aspects fell short for me. Firstly, the title failed to encapsulate the essence of the series, with 'LHSD' appearing to be a more suitable choice. Additionally, the excessive use of repetitive flashbacks proved to be rather irksome, almost insinuating a lack of faith in the audience's memory retention. Unquestionably, the character of Pink Panther, or Tianqi, stood out as the most disconcerting figure. Her unwavering infatuation with the protagonist bordered on obsession, portraying behaviors that would typically raise concerns if exhibited by another character.
  
  The tumultuous emotional journey of the male lead, coupled with the revelation of a potential familial relationship with the female lead, added a layer of complexity to the narrative. However, the female lead's subsequent coldness towards him seemed unjustified, overshadowing the emotional depth of their connection. The relationship dynamics were further muddled by the intrusion of the SML character, whose actions veered towards possessiveness and impulsivity, ultimately detracting from the core plotline.
  
  Despite these shortcomings, the series shines in its portrayal of personal growth and camaraderie among the characters. The evolution from initial arrogance to mutual respect, particularly under the mentorship of the formidable instructor, highlights the transformative power of teamwork and dedication. The intricate weaving of investigative elements into the bodyguard narrative adds depth and suspense to each client engagement, steering the storyline away from predictability.
  
  In retrospect, the series deserves recognition for its focus on action-packed sequences, character development, and the nuances of interpersonal relationships. While romance takes a backseat, the exploration of friendship, loyalty, and professional integrity takes center stage. For viewers seeking a blend of exhilarating action and gradual character evolution, this series is a compelling watch, earning a solid recommendation from me.

• DarkIdris57

  Overall 9.5

  Story 8.5,  Acting 9,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 8

  The show had a strong overall cast and a captivating story. I found myself drawn to most of the characters, although I had some reservations about the male lead. His behavior came across as overly persistent and at times unsettling, failing to respect boundaries set by the female lead. The title of the show, while attempting to appeal to a broader audience, felt somewhat forced and not entirely representative of the content. I originally decided to watch this series due to my admiration for the...

  lead female actress from a previous project. In my opinion, the alternative title "The Bodyguards" would have been a more fitting choice.
  
  Reflecting on the plotline, I couldn't help but brainstorm alternative narratives. Personally, I would have preferred to see the male lead show more consideration for the decisions of the female lead. Additionally, the storyline involving her best friend's betrayal could have been streamlined to maintain a higher impact. Introducing an earlier significant event, such as the passing of the father figure, might have triggered a more immediate and powerful connection between the female lead and her father.

• youngcinderella72

  Overall 10

  Story 10,  Acting 10,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 10

  Just finished binge-watching this series and I must say, it exceeded my expectations! The storyline is captivating, and the soundtrack perfectly complements every scene. There's just one small hitch - I can't seem to track down one specific song performed by a male artist in the final episode's celebratory beach scene. If anyone knows the title and singer, please share so I can add it to my playlist. Despite this minor setback, the series is a gem and definitely worth a watch. It's refreshing to...

  find a show that doesn't center around a typical romance plotline, making it a unique choice for viewers seeking something different.