Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• TinySigourney

  Overall 9

  Story 9,  Acting 10,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 8

  Warning: Spoilers ahead
  This TV series proves that WatchTVB still has the magic touch. It marks a strong comeback for the network, which had been struggling with declining standards in recent years. The return of familiar faces, including Linda and Kevin, adds to its appeal. Alongside the always-reliable Kenneth, this drama had me eagerly anticipating each new episode.
  
  The show strikes a perfect balance between the medical scenes set in the hospital and the budding romances that unfold. Each character has their own distinct personality and...

  quirks, making them relatable and endearing. The ensemble cast, featuring both main and supporting roles, ensures that no one overshadows the others.
  
  While it would have been nice to see a continuation of the storyline to witness the further development of each couple's relationship, the overall execution was spot-on. In summary, this TV series is definitely worth watching. (Special mention to Linda for delivering a remarkable performance.)

• dullim42

  Overall 9

  Story 9,  Acting 7,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 8.5

  The way the director presents the plot in this TV series is quite impressive. It follows a standard flow, which may seem predictable, but it actually makes the drama easy to follow while still leaving room for deeper reflection. The themes explored in the series may be clichéd, but there are unexpected twists scattered throughout that took me by surprise. These subtle turns of events may not be groundbreaking, but they truly touched my heart and made me empathize with the characters. The writing technique...

  employed in the series adds another layer of appreciation, allowing viewers to approach the drama from a literary standpoint. As for the ending, it may be short and somewhat predictable, yet it manages to provide a satisfying conclusion. Despite its clichés, it is a fitting finale that left me longing for more after such a long time.

• gentlebraveheart

  Overall 8.5

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

  A Balanced Blend of Medical and Everyday Life.
  
  After a long hiatus from Hong Kong TVB dramas, I recently dove back into the genre with "Kids Lives Matter." With the wide accessibility of dramas nowadays, I didn't have to rely on my local Chinese TV station and was able to find it on YouTube.
  
  "Kids Lives Matter" can best be described as a hybrid of a medical drama and a slice-of-life series. It successfully weaves together medical cases, patient stories, friendships, family dynamics, gentle romance,...

  and hospital politics. If you're looking for a drama that offers a little bit of everything, this one hits the mark. However, if you crave action-packed scenes and intricate medical mysteries, you might feel slightly underwhelmed.
  
  What struck me about this drama was the prevailing sense of tranquility throughout. Unlike many Asian and Western medical dramas I've watched, there was a noticeable absence of urgency, even in supposedly critical cases. The hospital settings were brightly lit and immaculate, resembling luxurious offices or upscale hotels. Even the pediatric ward, adorned with adorable wallpapers and stickers, lacked the usual chaotic atmosphere one might expect.
  
  Despite the lack of intensity, "Kids Lives Matter" possesses a genuine warmth that left a lasting impression. While the medical cases might not induce heart-pounding excitement, the patient stories and their relationships with the doctors were truly heartwarming. I particularly appreciated narratives such as a mother hoping her child's tumor would grow larger to qualify for government assistance and the touching tale of two boys who formed a bond through a double liver transplant. The surgeries were also well-presented on screen, allowing for close-ups of the actors' faces. Furthermore, displaying the surgery names in both English and Chinese added a nice touch.
  
  The drama delves into the intricate web of hospital politics, which permeates the storyline from start to finish. Unfortunately, I was disappointed by the "Hard Team" concept. I anticipated an abundance of exciting and challenging cases, but instead found a preoccupation with power struggles rather than medical complexity. The unimaginative name itself, "Hard Team," did little to add to the team's appeal or credibility.
  
  Despite this letdown, the camaraderie among the trio of best friends was a highlight. Their contrasting personalities and dynamics brought delightful energy to their scenes, whether they were at odds or supporting each other. Romance, while not the central focus, added subtle layers to the story. Viewer satisfaction with the romantic subplots may vary, but personally, I found the relationship between Max and Can to be the most endearing, even though they were not the main leads.
  
  The final episode ties up most loose ends, neatly wrapping up the narrative in a satisfying manner. While a couple of minor side plots may have been overlooked, the overall conclusion left me content. In summary, I would recommend "Kids Lives Matter" as a well-rounded, lightweight medical drama. However, it is worth mentioning that all the medical cases revolve around children, so if witnessing sick children suffering is something you would prefer to avoid, this might not be the ideal choice. On a rating scale, I would comfortably round it up, hoping to encourage more viewers to give this heartfelt series a chance.

• sharppeng

  Overall 7.5

  Story 7,  Acting 9,  Music 3,  Rewatch Value 3

  While not without flaws, this TV series is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition and viewership. It may not be the perfect medical drama, but it is a well-produced show that tackles compelling and heart-wrenching cases involving children in need of surgery at a prestigious hospital. The series delves into the harsh realities of healthcare accessibility and affordability, as well as the politics within the hospital administration.
  
  One of the highlights of the show is the balanced tone it strikes. Amidst the emotional heaviness, there...

  are two charismatic and responsible doctors portrayed by Kevin Cheng and Linda Chung. They bring not only laughter and joy to the sick children awaiting surgery but also instill hope for their recovery. Their on-screen chemistry and budding romance make them captivating to watch. Linda's character's loss is particularly gut-wrenching.
  
  The four main leads deliver stellar performances. Kevin and Linda, both former TVB stars, have effortlessly captured the hearts of both the on-screen children and the viewers with their kindness, warmth, and humor. Kenneth Ma and Catherine Chau shine as well, portraying senior doctors who navigate the complexities of hospital politics while ensuring the best care possible for their patients. Kenneth's growth as an actor from his previous medical role is evident in this series.
  
  The attention to detail in the surgery scenes is commendable. The show demonstrates the professionalism and dedication of the medical staff, providing audiences with a realistic portrayal of the surgical process. However, it's important to note that these scenes can be quite graphic and may not be suitable for sensitive viewers or meal times.
  
  One downside of the series is the frequency of surgery cases. Nearly every episode features a surgery, with detailed scenes of incisions and blood. While this adds to the authenticity of the show, it can be overwhelming for some viewers. Additionally, the realistic stories of children in need of surgeries, coupled with the despair of their parents and the limited resources available to the less privileged, can be emotionally challenging to watch.
  
  Despite its flaws, this TV series is a solid production that tackles important themes in an engaging and thought-provoking manner. It currently holds a high rating on douban, and rightfully so. If you have the courage to endure the heartbreaking moments, this show is worth the watch.