Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• DarkRatatouille

  Overall 9.5

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

  This reflection has been long overdue, drawing solely from my personal experience. Without any deep-rooted knowledge of the subject matter's cultural origins. I was first introduced to a fantastical realm of warriors in the early, more carefree days of my childhood. Back then, owning a VHS player was considered a luxury, and my father swiftly acquired one, introducing me to a treasure trove of wuxia tales rented from our local video store. These epic dramas, though we colloquially referred to them as kung fu series...

  rather than by their proper wuxia genre designation, already held a special place in the hearts of many in my country. From that point on, I was utterly captivated by the genre, immersing myself in countless tales that, while now all but forgotten, helped shape my burgeoning love for storytelling. Despite losing touch with these captivating narratives during my formative years, a recent nostalgia-induced craving led me back to the world of wuxia about a decade ago.
  
  One particular series, which had left an indelible mark on my memory, resurfaced in my thoughts—the story of a mystical hero. This series, from its iconic characters to its unforgettable musical score, had firmly embedded itself in my consciousness. The version that I revisited after all these years proved to be a true gem. Its enduring legacy continues to inspire awe. And so, I delve into what makes this series an enduring favorite of mine.
  
  **What I Admire:**
  
  **Casting:** The actors who brought the main and supporting characters to life delivered performances of exceptional quality. Barbara Yung's portrayal of Huang Rong was nothing short of spectacular. Without having delved into the original source material due to linguistic barriers, my perception of Huang Rong was solely shaped by this series. Barbara's portrayal, rich in complexity and depth, showcased the character's multifaceted nature masterfully. Her portrayal effortlessly fluctuated between fierce determination and endearing generosity, leaving an indelible impression. Watching her antics, whether lighthearted or cunning, was a sheer delight. Comparing subsequent adaptations, Barbara's rendition remains unmatched in my eyes.
  
  Felix Wong's embodiment of Guo Jing remains a personal favorite to this day. His portrayal exuded innocence and humor, particularly in his interactions with mentor figures like Hong Qigong and Zhou Botong. The chemistry between the lead actors, including Michael Miu and Sharon Yeung, lent emotional depth to pivotal scenes that linger with me to this day.
  
  **Kung Fu Choreography:** Despite not being trained martial artists, the actors' dedication to executing intricate fight sequences was truly commendable. Their efforts instilled authenticity into the action scenes, captivating viewers with their skillful performances.
  
  **Story:** While deviating somewhat from the original novel's narrative, this adaptation weaved additional subplots seamlessly into the overarching story, enhancing its enjoyment without detracting from the main plot. Each character's journey resonated with an authenticity that enriched the storytelling experience.
  
  **Music:** The evocative musical score evoked a range of emotions, from stirring patriotism to poignant melancholy. The soundtrack's enduring impact underscores its significance in enhancing the series' narrative depth.
  
  **Costume:** The meticulously crafted costumes not only reflected the characters' social status but also served as visual cues to their personalities, adding another layer of nuance to their portrayals.
  
  **Minor Gripes:**
  
  **Setting and Location:** While the studio-shot scenes may betray their artificiality upon closer inspection, given the technological constraints of the time, this minor flaw is forgivable. The limitations of the era, juxtaposed with today's advanced CGI capabilities, underscore the series' production challenges.
  
  In summation, this series stands as a benchmark for exceptional wuxia storytelling, featuring a captivating narrative, stellar performances, dynamic fight choreography, and a haunting musical score. Its enduring legacy continues to resonate, solidifying its status as the quintessential wuxia series in my repertoire.

• SoftZhou

  Overall 10

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

  I was introduced to this series as one of my earliest experiences with dramas, reminiscing about my childhood days in the 's when my mom used to bring home those Vietnamese-dubbed box sets. The themesong still echoes in my mind, sung in both Cantonese and Vietnamese. While the storyline might be familiar to fans, the standout feature of this adaptation lies in the impeccable acting and stellar cast. Featuring a lineup of TVB's crème de la crème during its era, from the lead actors to...

  the supporting roles, every face on screen feels like a reunion with old friends. The chemistry between the main characters is portrayed with such finesse that it draws viewers deeper into the narrative. Despite the dated production quality, including the now-outdated CGI and non-HD resolution, this rendition remains a gem within the LOCH franchise. The martial arts sequences are a spectacle to behold, a testament to the dedication of actors in classic HK dramas who honed their combat skills for their roles. Even now, this series holds a special place in my heart as an all-time favorite. While streaming services may not offer easy access to this beloved drama, I cherish the nostalgia of rewatching it on DVD.

• younglee93

  Overall 8.5

  Story 8,  Acting 9,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 7.5

  This classic series stands the test of time with its strong performances and compelling storytelling. Despite being a few years old, it doesn't feel outdated thanks to the timeless quality of the acting and writing. As someone who approached it without the bias of nostalgia, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it still resonates with viewers.
  
  The adaptation from the source material may have introduced changes, but the essence of the characters remained true to their original forms. What sets apart adaptations of this renowned...

  writer's work is the emphasis on the intricate dynamics of society and its inhabitants rather than solely focusing on individual psyches.
  
  A stellar ensemble cast brings these characters to life, with each actor contributing significantly to the series. While the leads deliver exceptional performances, the supporting cast shines just as brightly, ensuring a cohesive and engaging viewing experience. One standout portrayal that captivated me was Kenneth Tsang's portrayal of Wong Yeuk Si, a character who exudes charisma and depth in every scene.
  
  One particularly unforgettable moment in the series encapsulates the beautifully complex relationship between Wong Yeuk Si and Wong Yung without the need for dialogue. The raw emotion and unspoken understanding between the characters leave a lasting impact, showcasing the power of visual storytelling.
  
  This series transcends the flashy effects of modern productions, prioritizing character development and plot progression over extravagant visuals. The fight sequences, though brief, pack a punch and add to the narrative without overshadowing the story itself. In a landscape dominated by lengthy CGI-laden scenes, the simplicity and effectiveness of this series' action sequences are a breath of fresh air for viewers seeking substance over spectacle.

• ShiningNeptune69

  Overall 9.5

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

  In the world of television, there is a series that was born several years ago. Despite the passage of time, it has earned a rightful place as a timeless gem. While the script deviated from its literary origins, the creators infused the storyline with various intriguing elements. What truly sets this series apart is the impeccable performances from the cast, the captivating musical score, and the overall acting prowess that continues to captivate audiences.
  
  Barbara Yung's portrayal of Wong Yung remains unparalleled even after all...

  these years. Her on-screen presence was nothing short of mesmerizing, leaving an indelible mark on viewers. Tragically, her untimely passing further solidified this performance as one of her finest in the realm of dramatic series.
  
  Opposite Yung was the dashing Michael Miu in the role of Yeung Hong. Miu's depiction of the character remains unmatched, as no other actor has managed to embody Yeung Hong with the same level of charm and depth.
  
  Felix Wong's portrayal of Kwok Jing was executed flawlessly, adding another layer of authenticity to the ensemble. Sharon Yeung's portrayal of Muk Nim-chi further strengthened the core cast, creating a formidable quartet of leads.
  
  The supporting cast also delivered stellar performances, contributing to the series' overall excellence. In a time when visual effects were not as advanced, this series heavily relied on the actors' abilities and a compelling narrative to engage its audience.
  
  For many, revisiting this series feels like rediscovering a treasured memory from childhood. Despite attempts at remakes, there always seems to be something missing compared to the original charm of this timeless classic.

• sweetzhang68

  Overall 9.5

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

  I stumbled upon this timeless drama during my formative years, and its impact still resonates with me today. The sheer brilliance of this production is incomparable to the offerings of contemporary action dramas. Every aspect, from the impeccable performances by the cast to the captivating storyline and the mesmerizing music, seamlessly weaves together to create an unforgettable viewing experience. It's a consensus in my household - we are all ardent fans of this extraordinary show, unanimously praising its excellence.
  
  My personal affinity for action dramas, particularly...

  those infused with extraordinary powers and exhilarating sequences, only deepens my admiration for this hidden gem. Despite my busy schedule filled with a plethora of unwatched dramas, the urge to revisit this masterpiece lingers persistently. The nostalgic charm of the older camera quality, although not up to modern standards, adds a distinctive essence that enhances the overall viewing pleasure.
  
  While I did explore the recent adaptation of this drama titled "Legend of the Condor Heroes," I found it lacking in comparison to the original. The newer version, although attempting to capture the essence of its predecessor, falls short in terms of casting choices and fails to recreate the magic of the original storyline. For enthusiasts of action-packed dramas, this timeless classic is a must-watch, offering an unparalleled blend of thrills and emotional depth that continues to captivate audiences across generations.