Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• sunnybirdman

  Overall 5.5

  Story 5,  Acting 8,  Music 5.5,  Rewatch Value 1.5

  Caution: Potential spoilers ahead.
  Indulging in this recent drama was akin to a lesson in regret, a stark reminder that one should not blindly follow high ratings and popular casts. Despite my admiration for the actors from a previous famed series, their participation could not save this venture from being an utter disappointment.
  
  To begin, the series' premise promised the intriguing exploration of a female protagonist with the ability to glimpse into the future. Unfortunately, this concept was swiftly abandoned a few episodes in, giving way...

  to a narrative mess devoid of logic or substance.
  
  In my experience as a critic, I’ve encountered many a female lead, always looking for that silver lining even in less developed characters. However, this leading lady tested my patience beyond measure. With a track record of mistrusting her male counterpart, her journey was a tedious loop of repeated mistakes with predictable outcomes, devoid of any character development. Despite preaching about trust and honesty, she dismally failed to extend those virtues to those closest to her, notably her mentor and spouse, despite his continual demonstrations of faithfulness.
  
  Her interactions with the second male lead raised questions about her regard for marital respect, especially given her husband’s articulated unease. Rather than loyalty to her partner, she exhibited an odd and unwarranted absolute trust in the second male lead, based on a fleeting childhood connection—the logic of which eluded me. And even as the narrative ended, the prospects of her character elicited indifference, bordering on exasperation at her potential survival or demise.
  
  The second male lead personified one of the most irrational revenge-driven journeys I've seen. Instigating a dark vendetta over an incident from his youth, without seeking the truth, this character's narrative arc was as nonsensical as it was infuriating. His performance, characterized by a lack of emotional range and a peculiarly immobile facial expressiveness, detracted further from his believability as a villain.
  
  Our secondary couple, though initially charming, quickly became a tiresome affair with their redundant dance around courting rituals. The predictable cycle of flirtation without progression became especially grating within the context of a historical drama, where matrimony is oft an expedited affair.
  
  Equally frustrating was the sub-plot involving the former ally of the female lead, whose vendetta, spurred by a simple misapprehension, dragged on needlessly without resolution—another loose end that sullied the narrative.
  
  In a surprising turn, the most character growth was observed in the once irritating princess, who managed a semblance of a development arc, albeit from irksome to mildly sympathetic.
  
  The male lead remained the drama’s singular saving grace, with moments that thawed his otherwise cold exterior, revealing brief flashes of humor and warmth, particularly in relation to the female lead. His unfortunate plight was the series’ repetitive theme, an endless cycle of misplaced distrust amidst his constant struggle to prove his innocence.
  
  By the end, the special episodes held no allure—I had lost all interest. Any depiction of a joyous conclusion involving the female lead seemed antithetical to the happiness of the male lead, who deserved a far more trusting and loving partner. In my ideal finale, he would have found contentment with a new love, one capable of reciprocating his deep affection and unwavering trust.

• tinymercury14

  Overall 6

  Story 6,  Acting 6,  Music 6,  Rewatch Value 3

  This review may contain spoilers
  
  
  As a fervent observer of romantic narratives on the small screen, the initial episodes of this tale captivated my attention with their promising start. Yet, as the series unfolded, my enchantment waned with the progression of the plot. Central to my concerns is the fundamental flaw in the love story: the lack of trust that permeates the relationship between two key characters.
  
  The female protagonist's persistent skepticism towards her partner left me exasperated. Despite ample time and experiences shared, she...

  remains trapped in a cycle of doubt, failing to grasp the true essence of his character. This oversight paints a picture of love that's tainted by uncertainty, transforming what could be a heartwarming journey into a bitter ordeal.
  
  One side seems to be bearing the weight of the emotional labor—a partner who appears to offer love in its fullest form, standing across from a character strikingly reminiscent of a disgruntled spouse rather than a loving equal, highlighting the one-sidedness of their devotion.
  
  Moreover, the subplot concerning vengeance seems overblown, taking dimensions that far exceed what was originally hinted at, casting a shadow over the storyline and leading to an escalation that borders on the absurd.
  
  The finale in particular left me underwhelmed with its unconventional and rather perplexing climax—invoking the forces of nature in a way that felt more misplaced than magical.
  
  There is, however, a silver lining in the narrative surrounding the protagonist's sister, whose journey unfolds in a more compelling and relatable manner, perhaps overshadowing the central storyline itself.
  
  In essence, this series is a testament to the adage that love unanchored by trust can only drift towards an unsatisfying conclusion, leaving viewers like myself pondering what might have been, had the narrative been steered with a firmer hand on the wheel of emotional authenticity.

• calmshin4

  Overall 8.5

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

  Be aware, the following text may reveal pivotal plot points.
  
  The air of nostalgia is thick as the beloved team behind a widely celebrated historical drama series reconvenes to bring forth another period piece laden with meticulously woven love stories. At the helm is the adept director and a scriptwriter with a talent for bringing complex characters to life. A familiar main cast headlines this series, with seasoned actors gracing the screen alongside a competent supporting ensemble. Though fans may miss the presence of a...

  certain actor whose character's disposition in this new story would have been misaligned, the current cast steps up to fill any void.
  
  This drama is unofficially perceived as a sequel to its predecessor, with hints of reincarnation of past iconic characters who entranced the audience. Formally, however, this stands as a unique narrative, loosely inspired by a web novel celebrated for exploring the nuances of love. Spread across its fabric are endless varieties of love: from passionate to companionate, from playful to tragic, encompassing all the classical categorizations and beyond, including a love that spirals disastrously out of control.
  
  Embedded in a tapestry of palace intrigue and adorned with subplot intricacies about the pursuits of rival jewelers — notably a prestigious pavilion dealing in exquisitely crafted pieces — these romantic tales are accentuated within a context that seems to be secondary to the true theme of love’s multifaceted dimensions.
  
  Character exploration takes precedence over complex plotting, with a straightforward narrative hosting a gallery of adversaries that pose little real threat. An opportunity was perhaps missed to delve deeper into the intriguing premise of prophetic dreams, lightly touched upon at the series outset and leading to discussions about excised sequences from specific episodes. Despite these omissions, the story maintains its cohesion, and those with access to the uncut version via cable will find little difference to the central storyline.
  
  The series boasts remarkable art direction and visual storytelling, although its editorial continuity may falter. It offers exquisite wuxia sequences, weaving these displays of martial prowess seamlessly with romantic escapades, providing a stylish soulfulness to the courtship unfolding on screen.
  
  Our protagonist resonates with spirited youthfulness, displaying a notably different temperament to her previous incarnation, and yet, she is imbued with an endearing mix of innocence and courage. Her portrayal by an actress of notable charisma is grounded, though not without contentious choices in makeup styling.
  
  Another character, a prince at first resembling a familiar stoic figure, evolves into a layered personality that captures the viewer, with particularly emotive performances that resonate deeply. Meanwhile, another princely character presents a complex mix of motivations, though his journey through the spectrum of unrequited love evolves in ways that stretch credulity.
  
  The subplot involving a secondary romance offers a narrative delight, excellently crafted and brought to life by talent and charm, which arguably outshines the main pairing in depth and relatability.
  
  Less endearing are the cast of characters designed to provoke viewers, from a meddling emperor to a marquis whose posthumous influence lingers, and a princess whose frustrating presence on screen tests the limits of audience tolerance.
  
  The soundtrack itself is a symphony of voices harmonizing with the series’s emotive core, featuring songs performed by key cast members whose vocals add an ethereal layer to the already rich atmosphere.
  
  Ultimately, the series presents a satisfying resolution that echoes the lingering necessities of its thematic predecessor. Easter eggs and nods to this earlier saga will delight long-time fans, while newcomers are welcomed into a fresh love story adorned with the elegance of a supporting romance. Despite not quite reaching the heady heights of its forerunner, the series still offers ample enjoyment and merits the attention of all who revel in tales of love’s boundless landscapes.

• EnergeticHuang

  Overall 5

  Story 3,  Acting 8.5,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 1

  A Letdown After Much Anticipation
  
  As a self-professed enthusiast of historical dramas and captivated by Zhang Zhe Han's charm, my excitement knew no bounds upon the release of this much-anticipated series. Initially, it showed promise, capturing my attention with a few solid episodes. However, as the plot progressed, my enthusiasm waned to the point of disillusionment.
  
  The narrative soon stumbled into the realm of the absurd, and I found myself disengaging before even reaching the halfway mark. A brief attempt to rekindle my interest led me to...

  skim the finale, but alas, even the closing chapter only held my gaze for mere minutes.
  
  Echoing the sentiments of fellow viewers, I found the motivation behind the series’ antagonist to be disappointingly flimsy, a poorly constructed basis for vengeance that challenged believability. Moreover, the female lead, whom I had greatly admired in previous works such as "Legend of Yunxi", was presented here in a light that rendered her character almost unendurable—a far cry from her previously strong portrayals.
  
  On a brighter note, the soundtrack was a delightful aspect in an otherwise underwhelming series.
  
  To the scriptwriters, I implore a return to form—I am eager to continue supporting Zhang Zhe Han and the talented cast featured in the series, but not at the expense of substantive storytelling. Our dedication as an audience should not be taken for granted with mere aesthetics alone. With a generous heart, I offer a single star in my rating, clinging to the hope of improved narratives in the future.

• RoughJumanji

  Overall 5

  Story 6.5,  Acting 8.5,  Music 7.5,  Rewatch Value 2.5

  For those who revel in the throes of melodrama and the intricate dance of mistrust between protagonists, there exists a series that might just fit the bill. The saga kicks off on a high note, offering us a poignant love narrative, replete with the classic romantic triangle—one that sees a suitor pining for the effervescent yet paradoxically clever and oblivious leading lady.
  
  The initial episodes draw us into an idyll rich with promise and affection, only for the latter half to hurl viewers into a tempest...

  of fury and disenchantment. As the tale unfolds, the machinations of a vengeful adversary, intent on sowing discord, become apparent. The journey morphs into an emotional rollercoaster, underpinned by the exasperating skepticism of our heroine towards her male lead—a skepticism that refuses to abate despite the overwhelming evidence of his devotion.
  
  Spectators may find themselves gnashing their teeth in the face of the heroine's unfounded credulity towards a childhood acquaintance—a shadow from her past who has insinuated himself into her life and confidence—while simultaneously witnessing her readiness to cast aspersions and sever ties with her partner. His tangible acts of love appear futile against her readiness to embrace doubt and forsake the bond they've shared.
  
  Thus, the series courts a delicate line between engagement and vexation, offering the committed viewer a narrative as confounding as it is captivating, leaving us to question the roots of trust and the trials of love in the face of adversity.