Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• grumpybrad59

  Overall 6.5

  Story 6,  Acting 4,  Music 4,  Rewatch Value 1

  Abstracting a fascinating tale of a mysterious young woman named Ling Long and a powerless emperor named Yuan Yi on the fictional continent of Suchuan, this visually stunning drama captivates viewers with its intricate production and captivating CGI. While some CGI scenes may not be perfect, the overall visual experience is breathtaking, with vibrant color schemes and exquisite costume designs adding to the aesthetic charm. The touching relationship between Ling Long and her father stands out amidst a somewhat convoluted plot filled with flashbacks and...

  ambiguous character motives. Despite some pacing issues and a lack of clarity in the storyline, the heartfelt connection between the main characters is portrayed with sincerity. The actors' performances are solid, with Angel Zhao delivering a commendable portrayal, although Lin Yi's interpretation may come across as somewhat reserved. With a lengthy episode count that contributes to a dragging middle section, the series could benefit from a more concise narrative structure. Ending on a somewhat ambiguous note, the potential for a sequel seems plausible, leaving viewers intrigued by the unresolved threads of the story.

• giantgeorge

  Overall 9

  Story 10,  Acting 9,  Music 6,  Rewatch Value 9.5

  If you are looking for a TV series beyond the usual costume drama fare, this one might surprise you, just as it did for me. Initially mistaken for a love story, the plot takes a turn towards intriguing in the middle episodes. The love triangle involving a key character's father is refreshingly different, with the third party adding a cool and non-intrusive dynamic. The characters make logical decisions at the start, albeit with a slight dip in coherence towards the middle before finding their footing...

  again in the final few episodes. They are not one-dimensional, focusing on substantive matters rather than solely on romantic entanglements.
  
  Featuring a cast of fresh faces, the standout performance comes from Yin Zhuang, who brings a subtle aristocratic charm to her role. Despite potentially coming off as dull, she exudes charisma that's hard to resist, making her a favorite among the ensemble. On the flip side, the once-prominent King of Suchuan disappointingly fades into irrelevance as the narrative progresses.
  
  The production values shine in areas like CGI and set design, elevating the visual experience significantly. While the CGI impresses with its quality, the overall presentation, including the soundtrack and promotional materials, could benefit from a more serious tone. Spoiler alert: an unexpected plot twist involving human experimentation adds a darker layer to what initially seemed like a lighthearted romance and laughter-filled story.
  
  In essence, the series weaves a satisfying overall plot, with some forgivable missteps along the way that are redeemed by the desire to see how everything unfolds. All loose ends are neatly tied up by the end, and the narrative maintains a sense of coherence, reminding viewers that even the most powerful characters have limitations, especially when faced with the inevitability of death. While the background music and promotional material might not hit the mark, the engaging storyline and impressive CGI make it worth the watch.

• tinyanne

  Overall 8

  Story 8,  Acting 9.5,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 8

  Buckle up for a fantastical ride filled with trust, sacrifice, and unexpected romance in this drama that breaks the typical mold. Right off the bat, let's talk about the mesmerizing OST that adds a whole new layer to the emotional and warm scenes. "Opposite" by Zang Zi Ning hits you right in the feels, making every moment memorable.
  
  While the plot may be a tad confusing and incomplete, the fresh ideas, unique characters, and captivating land setting keep you engaged. What sets this drama apart is...

  the refreshing lack of misunderstandings between the two leads, Ling Long and Yuan Yi. Their unwavering trust in each other, despite the complexities of Yuan's Clan's past, forms the heartbeat of the story. The subtle yet profound romance between them, built on trust and sacrifice, is a breath of fresh air.
  
  As we delve into the dynamics between Huo TuXin, Yin Zhuang, and Wu Yuan, we witness a bittersweet tale of unrequited love and tough choices. Even the so-called bad guys like Sheng Yan and Zhu Xi have layers to their characters, adding depth to the narrative. Their motivations and actions, while questionable, showcase their humanity in unexpected ways.
  
  The standout performances by the cast, the palpable chemistry between the characters, and the intriguing storyline make this drama a worthwhile watch. Ling Long's grace and emotional depth leave a lasting impression, while Yuan Yi's strength and maturity bring a sense of stability to the tumultuous plot.
  
  While the story could have had more clarity and development in certain areas, the overall experience is a satisfying one. As the final credits rolled, leaving a lingering sense of nostalgia, it's hard not to hope for a second season to tie up loose ends. For me, this drama's blend of romance, fantasy, and trust make it a memorable journey worth taking.

• roughhalle51

  Overall 10

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

  Gripping and Enthralling
  
  Prepare to be swept off your feet by this captivating drama that will leave you in awe at every turn. From the very first scene of the series, I was completely hooked. The storyline is fresh and innovative, unlike anything I've seen before. The writing is exceptional, giving each character depth and complexity.
  
  The production quality is top-notch, with special effects that are truly impressive. They effortlessly transport you into the heart of the narrative. The characters are all distinct and intriguing, making it...

  easy to both love and loathe them. Trust becomes a precious commodity as suspicions run high among the ensemble.
  
  The main characters are a highlight of the series. The female lead is a powerhouse, unapologetically strong and determined. The dynamic with the king, who admires and supports her, adds a layer of depth to the story. The father-daughter relationship is portrayed beautifully, showcasing the balance between concern and allowing one another room to grow.
  
  While romance takes a backseat, the sacrifices made for love are omnipresent. The various forms of love—parental, sibling, familial, and romantic—are at the core of the narrative. Amidst some lighthearted and comedic moments, it is the breathtaking special effects that steal the show.
  
  The actors deliver impeccable performances, embodying their characters with such authenticity that you can feel the chemistry between them. If you have a penchant for fantasy and exceptional visuals, this series is a definite must-watch. Get ready to be amazed!

• grumpycamel

  Overall 7

  Story 7,  Acting 8,  Music 7.5,  Rewatch Value 6

  A fantastical world torn apart by strife and corruption, a young ruler's quest to restore faith and peace, and the mysterious disappearance of a goddess form the captivating premise of this fantasy drama. The visually stunning setting, especially the enchanting flying fish ships, immediately immerses viewers into the mystical realm of Sichuan. As the story unfolds, unraveling the secrets of the past and the goddess's origins, the intricate world-building adds depth to the narrative.
  
  The standout performance of Yuan Hong as Linglong's father brings a heartwarming...

  and comedic dynamic to the series, making their father-daughter relationship a highlight. Despite the plot losing momentum, their on-screen chemistry keeps the audience engaged. Yuan Hong's portrayal of Huotu Xin is a refreshing departure from typical c-drama roles, showcasing his talent as a versatile actor.
  
  However, despite the strong character development of supporting roles with conflicting agendas, the titular character Linglong falls short of leaving a lasting impact. The complex relationships and dynamics among the ensemble cast add layers of intrigue to the storyline, drawing viewers' interest towards secondary characters who often outshine the central pairing.
  
  As the narrative progresses towards its conclusion, multiple sacrifices are made, leading to a resolution that may not necessarily satisfy all viewers. The unpredictable twists and turns, while at times seemingly forced to drive the plot forward, keep the story engaging till the end.
  
  Overall, this fantasy drama offers an enjoyable escape into a magical world, though it may fall short of fully realizing its characters' potentials. With captivating visuals and engaging performances, it serves as a decent option for viewers seeking a fantastical journey with tempered expectations.