Playing Ep 19

What people are saying

• calmseo

  Overall 8

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

  I recently came across a hidden gem of a series that seems to fly under the radar for many viewers. It stays quite true to the source material, a novel that fans hold dear. The adaptation remains faithful to the original work, capturing the essence of the characters and their dialogues in a way that truly resonates with fans of the book. The runtime is quite manageable, making it easy to binge-watch and stay engaged throughout. However, I have mixed feelings about the additional scenes...

  that were tacked on towards the end, particularly those involving a certain character that felt a bit drawn out.
  
  The lead actor's portrayal of a carefree yet valiant character was spot-on, embodying the spirit of the protagonist flawlessly. Another standout performance came from an actor who brought depth and intensity to their role, adding layers to the narrative. While the rest of the ensemble cast delivered suitable performances, they didn't necessarily steal the spotlight.
  
  One aspect that I appreciated was the attention to detail in the costumes, distinguishing each sect member clearly and aiding in character differentiation, a crucial element in such a vast and diverse cast. However, I couldn't help but yearn for the iconic music and songs from a past adaptation, which I felt added a certain charm and nostalgia to the viewing experience.
  
  Despite its flaws, this series remains a beloved favorite of mine for its faithfulness to the novel, a quality that I find lacking in more contemporary adaptations. The newer versions seem to veer off course, losing touch with the essence of the original story that captivated audiences. There's a certain timeless quality to this adaptation that keeps me coming back for more, a testament to its enduring appeal and staying power.

• mightyelephant70

  Overall 8.5

  Story 8,  Acting 9,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 8.5

  This series serves as a testament to the power of exceptional acting and captivating storytelling in transforming a production into a timeless classic. Just like the central character, who is a true gem amidst challenging circumstances, the series shines brightly. Admittedly, the series faced budget constraints that led to noticeable shortcomings in the fight scenes and special effects, a stark contrast to the lavish production of a different television show airing concurrently. The costumes seemed hastily put together, and some visual elements, like peeling wigs...

  and unrefined makeup, were hard to overlook.
  
  However, any blemishes are easily overshadowed when the incomparable Jacky Lui graces the screen. Lui's portrayal of the main character was so authentic that it felt like he effortlessly leaped from the pages of a well-loved novel. His portrayal captured Linghu Chong's complexity, blending a carefree demeanor with underlying depth and sensitivity. With every expression and line delivery, Lui brought out the multifaceted nature of the character, making it a joy to watch him inhabit the role.
  
  Another standout aspect of the series was its array of compelling villains, each uniquely crafted with their own distinctive traits. From a boyish smile that could turn sinister to a fatherly figure with a dark side, the villains added layers of intrigue and nuance to the narrative. Particularly noteworthy was the portrayal of Dong Fang Bu Bai, a character shrouded in mystery and malevolence, making a lasting impact despite limited screen time. The actor's rendition brought to life a truly menacing figure, embodying the essence of a formidable antagonist as envisioned by the creator.
  
  The series also marked a significant shift in storytelling within the wuxia genre, departing from traditional hero-villain dynamics to explore more nuanced character portrayals. Faithfulness to the original material was upheld while introducing additional scenes to enrich character development. Some narrative additions, such as delving into characters' backstories, enhanced the viewing experience, while others, like a subplot reminiscent of "Romeo and Juliet," felt somewhat out of place. The incorporation of a subtle romantic thread amidst the prevailing themes of violence and mortality provided a welcome breather, adding a touch of warmth to the overarching tale.