Playing Ep 20

What people are saying

• bittertron

  Overall 10

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

  Beware of spoilers ahead
  As a devoted fan of the captivating duo in a popular romance novel, seeing them brought to life on screen was a real treat.
  
  The story follows a young woman named Feng Jiu, who becomes entranced with Dong Hua after he saves her life. Determined to repay the favor, she enters his palace as a maid and puts herself in perilous situations to protect him. Despite her initial naivety and infatuation, her character development is evident as she matures throughout the...

  series.
  
  The narrative takes us through various realms and lifetimes of the main characters, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and destiny. Watching Feng Jiu and Dong Hua navigate their complex relationship amidst trials and misunderstandings is both heartwarming and heart-wrenching.
  
  The visual elements of the series are a true delight, with stunning cinematography that captures the essence of each setting flawlessly. The costumes, while not as elaborate as in similar productions, are well-suited to the characters and the world they inhabit.
  
  The music in the series is a standout feature, with tracks that perfectly complement the emotional depth of the story. The OSTs are so enchanting that they become an integral part of the viewing experience.
  
  In terms of rewatch value, this series undoubtedly offers a compelling narrative that would entice viewers to revisit it multiple times. The intricate storyline, combined with the engaging characters and beautiful production values, make it a truly immersive and enjoyable watch.

• QuickIdris95

  Overall 8

  Story 7.5,  Acting 8.5,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 7.5

  As a devoted fan of a certain beloved TV series, I approached this new show with caution. During its airing, it faced its fair share of criticism, but eventually won over audiences, leading me to give it a chance. While it wouldn't be fair to compare it to its predecessor, this version falls short in terms of epic lore and excitement. Its appeal mainly lies in the chemistry between the main characters and a penchant for love stories. The ensemble cast, particularly in the first...

  portion, stood out, and I particularly found myself missing a certain familiar face from the previous series.
  
  Plotwise, the dynamic between the female lead, Fengjiu, and Dong Hua becomes a source of frustration as she navigates her feelings for him. Despite expecting heartbreak due to Dong Hua's aloof nature, Fengjiu endures multiple emotional blows early on, invoking sympathy for her naive yet playful demeanor. The mortal realm offers a lighter contrast to other fantastical dramas, with a tonal shift upon their return to heaven, barring a particular subplot that required some fast forwarding. As for the conclusion, it managed to exceed expectations by reuniting the central characters and resolving their temporary separation.
  
  Fengjiu's character arc emerges as a standout feature, showcasing substantial growth from initial immaturity to a more developed persona. Dong Hua's character, although initially exasperating, undergoes a redemption arc that serves as a key narrative thread. While lacking the same gravitas and chemistry as previous characters, the central duo still delivers an enjoyable viewing experience. Antagonists, however, fail to leave a lasting impact, with performances that feel lackluster.
  
  In terms of performances, the leads deliver varying degrees of effectiveness. While Dilraba's portrayal benefits from her character's simplicity, Vengo's interpretation falls somewhat short of expectations given the complexity of his role. His demeanor oscillates between icy aloofness and romanticism, yet falters during more poignant moments, revealing a slight mismatch in acting prowess required for the character depth.
  
  Overall, the series offers a dose of saccharine escapism but leaves something to be desired in terms of plot and acting. While it may not prompt any sleepless nights of obsession, it does provide insights into character growth and redemption arcs that may resonate with viewers. Whether to indulge in this offering or opt to skip it remains a subjective choice, as it offers a mixed bag of elements to consider.

• shiningbattleship

  Overall 10

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

  This captivating drama is a hidden gem that is truly worth the wait for any avid viewer. Despite featuring some familiar characters, it is important to note that it is not a sequel to its predecessor. Instead, it delves into the enchanting love story between two protagonists, offering a fresh narrative that stands on its own.
  
  The adaptation from the book of the same title is commendable, with minor changes that do not detract from the overall storytelling. While some performances may fall short, the majority...

  of the cast shines brightly, bringing depth and emotion to their roles.
  
  For fans of wuxia, costume, and fantasy dramas, this series is a must-watch, delivering a heartwarming tale that will linger with you long after the final episode. With its engaging storyline and stellar performances, it earns a solid recommendation and a definite spot on your watchlist. Get ready to embark on a captivating journey that will leave you eager for more.

• gentleshrek

  Overall 6

  Story 6.5,  Acting 7,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 5.5

  This series, a follow-up to a beloved classic, falls short of the high expectations set by its predecessor. The familiar production team and cast fail to recreate the magic of the original, resulting in a storyline that lacks the emotional depth and character development that made the first series a success. While the actors deliver solid performances and the visuals are stunning, the plot meanders with unnecessary filler episodes that don't add to the overall narrative. Recasting some characters works better than others, leaving fans...

  feeling disconnected from the story.
  
  One standout performance comes from an actor who portrays a character that undergoes significant growth throughout the series, evolving from a cold and aloof figure to one who is transformed by love. Another unexpected character, initially portrayed as an annoying and arrogant figure, surprises viewers by becoming an essential ally to the main protagonists. However, the rushed conclusion to this character's arc feels forced and unconvincing.
  
  Despite some bright spots, such as moments of genuine character growth and development, the series disappoints in its handling of important relationships and key interactions between characters. Cameo appearances from beloved characters miss the mark, failing to recapture the nostalgic charm that fans had hoped for. The absence of certain key characters is keenly felt, especially during critical moments in the story.
  
  Ultimately, this series falls short of its predecessor, lacking the same emotional impact and cohesive storytelling that made the original a fan favorite. While it may not reach the heights of its predecessor, it still offers enough entertainment value to engage fans of the genre.

• bitterpinocchio70

  Overall 10

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

  Prepare yourself for a captivating journey into a world of intricate storytelling and enchanting characters! While there may be countless reviews out there, I couldn't resist sharing my thoughts on this gem that has quickly soared to the top of my list of favorite dramas. Admittedly, I hadn't experienced the source material or its predecessors before diving into this series, making my review solely about the show itself.
  
  I was pleasantly surprised by how addictive the series turned out to be! The reluctance I felt towards...

  watching the final episodes speaks volumes about the depth of my investment in the storyline. Despite my initial hesitation, I eventually succumbed and embarked on the emotional rollercoaster that the show had meticulously crafted. Although lengthy dramas usually deter me, the undeniable chemistry between the main characters compelled me to defy my usual viewing habits. From the intriguing trailers to the regret of not discovering it sooner, every moment was a testament to the show's allure.
  
  The narrative's various arcs, from a pivotal transformation into a pet fox to the ultimate climax, each held their own charm. While some critiques pointed out moments of lethargy, I found myself appreciating the diverse layers that contributed to the rich tapestry of the plot. Fortunately, the conclusion proved to be deeply satisfying, sparing me from the heartache that often accompanies unresolved endings.
  
  The stellar performances delivered by Dilraba and Vengo are not to be overlooked. Dilraba's portrayal of Feng Jiu exuded a captivating blend of sass and grace, perfectly embodying the essence of a legendary beauty. Her character's multidimensional qualities, coupled with Vengo's seamless transition from an icy deity to a lovestruck admirer, added a depth to their relationship that was simply enthralling. Their on-screen chemistry was palpable, drawing viewers into their evolving romance with every nuanced expression and endearing moment shared.
  
  Beyond the central duo, the ensemble cast deserves applause for their contributions to the series. Each character, from Lian Song to Su Mo Ye, brought a unique vitality to the narrative, elevating the viewing experience with their individual charms. Special mention must be made of Ji Heng, whose actions evoked a visceral response, showcasing the depth of emotional investment the show elicited.
  
  Visually stunning CGI effects transported viewers to otherworldly realms with seamless artistry, enhancing the overall immersive experience. The attention to detail in creating these fantastical settings underscored the dedication and creativity that went into the production. Additionally, the OST soundtrack deserves recognition for its seamless integration into the storytelling, finding a permanent place on my playlist.
  
  In conclusion, the rewatch value of this series is exceptionally high, as I find myself drawn back into its mesmerizing world time and time again. The addictive nature of the show is a testament to its quality and the undeniable allure of its characters and storyline.