Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• smartuma

  Overall 8

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

  Warning: This analysis could reveal key plot points of the series.
  Delving into the intricate tapestry of intertwined destinies, this series captivates viewers with its poignant narrative that traverses the depths of human emotions. The exquisite cinematography elevates the storytelling, breathing life into the characters who evoke laughter, tears, and a myriad of emotions from the audience. The palpable chemistry among the characters adds a layer of authenticity to the unfolding drama, drawing viewers deeper into their tumultuous journey.
  
  As the protagonists navigate a landscape fraught...

  with challenges and heart-wrenching decisions, viewers are compelled to binge-watch, eager to unravel the characters' fates. The exploration of redemption and atonement resonates throughout the narrative as the leads grapple with the consequences of their actions, seeking to mend the fractures in their intertwined destinies.
  
  However, it is in the denouement that the series falters, as the resolution of the characters' arcs leaves a lingering sense of disappointment. Despite the characters' valiant struggles and sacrifices for love and redemption, the conclusion feels somewhat abrupt and unsatisfying. The ambiguity surrounding the fate of the characters and the mysterious twist introduced in the final episode may leave audiences grappling with unanswered questions and a sense of bewilderment.
  
  Yet, this enigmatic conclusion also sparks contemplation and reflection, inviting viewers to ponder the intricate web of fate and love that binds the characters together. The unresolved mysteries and the haunting imagery of the lovers on the bridge linger in the mind, leaving a lasting impression that invites reinterpretation and speculation.
  
  In the end, while the series stumbles in its final moments, it remains a testament to the enduring power of love and the complexities of human nature. Through its evocative storytelling and nuanced character portrayals, the series leaves an indelible mark on viewers, prompting them to ponder the timeless themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption long after the screen fades to black.

• bravememento

  Overall 9.5

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

  I thoroughly enjoy the narrative, musical score, animation, special effects, pacing, and the stellar performances by the cast in this TV series. However, I found the conclusion a bit rushed, particularly the moment when Bai Yao Yao and Zi Xuan cross paths, with Zi Xuan sporting his distinctive white hair. It left me yearning for a more extended interaction between them. The ambiguity surrounding their encounter, whether it was real or perhaps a figment of Bai Yao Yao's imagination, adds a layer of intrigue to...

  the finale. Despite these minor qualms, the overall storytelling, acting prowess, and musical accompaniment have left a lasting impression on me, prompting multiple revisits to savor the series once more.

• fluffyplatypus

  Overall 7.5

  Story 8,  Acting 10,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 8.5

  The performers delivered exceptional performances throughout the series. However, the overall narrative fell short of expectations. The turmoil primarily originated from the deities, especially the divine ruler, and the envy felt by Crane towards Bai Yao Yao and Zi Juan's relationship. Despite this, it was Bai Yao Yao and Zi Juan who bore the brunt of the consequences, with Bai Yao Yao facing the harshest criticisms. It was puzzling why demons were looked down upon despite the heavenly ruler belonging to the demon clan -...

  a plot thread that warranted further exploration.
  
  Bai Yao Yao, despite her thousand years of cultivation, did not showcase significant prowess, unlike other characters who rapidly developed their skills. It seemed reasonable to assume that Bai Yao Yao should have been able to overcome Ling Neng. It was also disappointing that Ling Neng escaped unpunished for her transgressions.
  
  The leads, while making numerous promises, faltered in effective communication and repeated past mistakes due to this lack of dialogue. The series missed an opportunity to illustrate that individuals can alter their fates and that heaven is not as merciless as depicted. Love, such as that shared between Bai Yao Yao and Zi Juan, has the power to transform destinies, a concept that the series failed to fully embrace.
  
  The subplot involving the demon emperor and Taitoie seemed unnecessary, as neither character was inherently "evil" to begin with. The focus should have remained on the central players - Bai Yao Yao, Zi Juan, Ling Chu, and the green snake - who bore the brunt of the divine leadership's machinations.
  
  A potential second season could offer closure, illustrating Bai Yao Yao and Zi Juan's enduring happiness, alongside Ling Chu and the green snake's resolution.

• lazychimpanzee38

  Overall 8

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

  The acting in this series is truly top-notch, especially from Allen Ren, Yang Zi, and Liu Xue Yi who portrays the demon king with both talent and charm. Yang Zi's portrayal is moving, although she occasionally falls short in delivering the full emotional impact of her lines. On a second viewing, I found myself enjoying the series even more at the start, but my opinion soured as the final third unfolded. The pacing became tediously slow, weighed down by excessive dialogue that failed to hold...

  my interest once the mysteries had been unraveled. While there was a surprising twist near the conclusion, it failed to inject much-needed suspense into the overall narrative, which had grown somewhat stale by then. The female characters, while aesthetically pleasing, often appeared foolish, lacking the depth that would have truly impressed me.
  
  The storyline felt disjointed, riddled with inconsistencies that sometimes changed within the span of a single episode, giving the impression that the plot was being invented on the fly. Despite its flaws, the series managed to maintain a certain level of intrigue, keeping me hooked as I strived to unravel its tangled web. The excessive displays of emotion and stubbornness by the characters grew tiresome, making it difficult to empathize with their choices. Their tendency towards self-destructive behavior painted a concerning picture of their mental states, particularly the heavenly emperors, whose bureaucracy at times made the demon king seem almost sympathetic.
  
  One repetitive motif that grated on me was the constant back-and-forth of "you go, no, we go together," a tired device used to manufacture artificial suspense during moments of impending danger. While the series possesses a certain clichéd charm, if a second season is planned, I urge the creators to focus on strengthening the script. Despite my reservations about the narrative structure, the standout performances of the cast warrant recognition and elevate the viewing experience.

• fierceporcupine

  Overall 8.5

  Story 9,  Acting 9.5,  Music 8.5,  Rewatch Value 8.5

  This review delves into a captivating drama starring a familiar face, Yang Zi, whose performance never fails to impress. From her previous roles in dramas like "Battle of Chansha" and "Ashes of Love," Yang Zi once again shines in "The Destiny of White Snake" as the innocent character whose actions often lead to unforeseen consequences, always rescued by her hero. The series boasts stunning costumes, a talented cast, and an intriguing storyline, though it may feel slow-paced initially, a common trait in lengthy Chinese dramas.
  
  In...

  "The Destiny of White Snake," we follow the journey of Bai Yao Yao, a white snake yearning to experience life as a human, and Xu Xuan, a healer. As their paths intertwine amidst a competition for immortality, Bai Yao Yao undergoes a transformation and embarks on a quest to save Xu Xuan's soul, testing the limits of their love in the face of cruel fate.
  
  The evolving relationship between Bai Yao Yao and Xu Xuan is both heartwarming and heart-wrenching, as they navigate challenges and misunderstandings, questioning the depths of their emotions and the sacrifices they are willing to make for each other. The drama expertly weaves moments of affection, betrayal, and redemption, keeping viewers engaged despite a slight dip in pace towards the finale.
  
  Despite some lulls in the storyline, the standout performances, particularly from Yang Zi, elevate the viewing experience, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of wuxia dramas. The picturesque scenes, especially those set against a backdrop of peach blossoms, add a touch of charm to the series, enhancing its visual appeal and emotional depth.
  
  Overall, "The Destiny of White Snake" may not reach masterpiece status, but it nevertheless captivates with its character dynamics and poignant moments, staying true to the essence of classic romantic dramas. An enjoyable watch for those who appreciate intricate storytelling and stellar acting, this series offers a blend of romance, fantasy, and emotional turmoil that keeps viewers invested until the uncertain yet satisfying conclusion.