Playing Ep 02

What people are saying

• sharpbirdman

  Overall 9.5

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

  Be advised, the following review may unveil key plot points
  In the realm of serialized storytelling, my approach is without preconceived notions. Yet it's the laughter, the eclectic ensemble, and the shared meals that cement my viewership. There's a certain appeal in the bumbling genius with an insatiable appetite, though it's disheartening to witness his dilution towards the series climax; thankfully, this is a fleeting phase.
  
  While initially jarring, the voice-over for the stoic right-hand man eventually found its place in my experience. His camaraderie is...

  particularly noteworthy, not to mention his culinary prowess and the heartthrob status he seems to hold universally. The enigmatic official is another who captures attention, his backstory unraveling to reveal steadfast loyalty and intelligence that's far from ordinary.
  
  The puzzle-solving escapades are engaging, cleverly intertwined with an undercurrent of humor reminiscent of a certain martial arts legend. Supporting players add depth and vibrancy, the collective's chemistry especially shining during convivial banquets or stealthy operations – moments that linger in memory.
  
  Antagonists aside, the cast is devoid of irksome characters, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the narrative. Visually, the production doesn't skimp on aesthetics; from composition to fight choreography, there's an evident dedication to craft. Musical scores may have been a secondary observation for me, but the bookends of each installment resonated with quality.
  
  Early on, the editing presents as haphazard – jarring transitions and episodic inconsistencies surface. The narrative watertightness ebbs notably in the midsection of the series, perhaps a symptom of attempting to sustain an extended episode count.
  
  But the dénouement? It's a thing of beauty, stirring a hunger for continuation rather than melancholy closure.
  
  Fans with a leniency for narrative discrepancies and a penchant for frequent dining scenes might find this series to be a palatable adventure.

• fastbae

  Overall 9

  Story 8.5,  Acting 10,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 8.5

  This review may contain spoilers.
  
  Without revealing too much, this historical drama series is irresistibly engaging, quickly becoming a visual addiction that compels you to see it through to its climactic end. The brilliance of the ensemble cast cannot be overstated, with standout performances from the trio of main actors whose on-screen dynamics form the backbone of the narrative. The male lead personifies a blend of charm and exasperation, walking the fine line between endearing and vexing with expert finesse. His counterpart comes off initially...

  as stoic, but layers of emotional complexity unfold as his backstory emerges. The actor portraying the politically savvy yet multifaceted third lead delivers depth that belies his relative newness to the industry.
  
  Kudos also goes to the young actress portraying the lead's loyal companion, whose portrayal adds heartfelt dimension to the series. The production values are stellar, with set designs, costumes, and cinematography that are nothing short of breathtaking, transporting audiences to another time and place with such authenticity that one might forget they're watching a painstakingly crafted fiction.
  
  

  Now, diving into spoiler territory:
  
  The camaraderie and evolving bond among the main characters is portrayed with a realism that is captivating. Their relationships are the heart of the series, authentic in their complexity and stripped of unnecessary romantic subplots, providing an unsullied view into a multifaceted bond that's a rarity on screen.
  
  However, the series is not without its flaws. Pacing issues do arise, with some storylines languishing in development before racing to a conclusion. This erratic tempo can detract from the narrative's overall cohesion. Additionally, certain arcs lack the urgency or significance to make them compelling, leading to an emotional disconnect with the viewers.
  
  Curious scripting choices leave untouched potential and loose ends that beg for attention. The plot involving a historical battle and intertwined personal fates is mired with questions, not all satisfactorily answered by the narrative.
  
  Despite certain plotlines being somewhat convoluted or extraneous, leaving holes and audience fatigue, the strength of the main story arc, centered around the investigation, ultimately holds sway, buoyed by exquisite character interactions.
  
  In closing, the series stands as a visually stunning piece with a powerful core cast. The aesthetic pleasure of handsome leads and strong female characters does not overshadow the gravitas of the story. Memorable moments between the two male leads are particularly poignant, along with the commendable addition of a skilled third actor, elevating the drama to a must-watch spectacle for those who revel in nuanced character exploration within a rich historical tapestry.

• ancientostrich

  Overall 9.5

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

  The drama at hand could very well be renamed to an endearing call for family reunion around the dinner table. It's the embodiment of familial warmth, where shared meals bind the characters, an act that sits close to my own heart as an embodiment of life's simplest yet profound pleasures.
  
  At its core, the series unfurls an intricate tapestry of mystery and drama, with three disparate protagonists combining their unique talents to untangle a web of crime and subterfuge, while safeguarding their empire. Their tasks are...

  Herculean - rooting out corruption, advocating for the innocent, and delivering justice, all in the name of the unwavering loyalty to their sovereign ruler.
  
  Chen Kuan Hong, or Darren Chen, delivers a performance that is truly a study of contrasts as Tang Fan - a humble government scribe with a lofty intellect, whose escapades oscillate between the genius and the nonsensical. Darren's aesthetic appeal and emotive faculties capture the viewer’s affection with an undeniable charm.
  
  Our resident stoic and protector, Sui Zhou, portrayed by Fu Meng Bo, is the epitome of the strong silent type, with a hidden reservoir of kindness. His commitment to safeguarding his comrade’s six, coupled with his culinary prowess, is nothing short of impressive. His action sequences are a particular delight, hinting at an off-screen proficiency in the kitchen.
  
  The enigmatic eunuch, Wang Zhi, enacted by Liu Yao Yuan, is the sly fox amongst men; wielding extensive influence alongside a penchant for ruthless strategies. Liu's boyish appearance belies a seasoned capacity for navigating the shadowy halls of power, a performance that is spot on and utterly enchanting.
  
  The synergy among this trio is the narrative’s lifeblood - a dynamic mingling of camaraderie that's perhaps more precious for its subtlety. The essence of their relationship is at times elusive, yet indisputably rich.
  
  A hat tip is due to the ensemble cast, each leaving an indelible mark. The young and sharp-witted Dong'er, courtesy of Huang Yang Tian Tian, commands the screen with a maturity that outshines her age, often leaving the adults in her wake.
  
  Not introduced until a pivotal flashback episode, the origin stories of our main characters intricately weave their past to their present, setting a firm foundation for their motivations and alliances.
  
  Helmed by a director reminiscent of the legendary Jackie Chan, the series glides with a blend of humor and folly, marked by brisk pacing and a cadence of stunt work that would do Chan proud. Although the martial artistry is a spectacle, the accompanying scores sometimes disrupt rather than complement the tension of the scenes.
  
  While the narrative stumbles occasionally with minor fissures in plot and execution, these are but specks on an otherwise captivating canvas. The finale closes the chapter with finesse, granting each storyline its deserved resolution.
  
  As the last moments hint at the prospect of further adventures in a potential follow-up season, this richly woven drama secures its place as a laudable watch, leaving an imprint of imperial intrigue and unshakeable bonds.

• OldFootloose50

  Overall 9

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

  Be advised, the following critique may reveal key plot points
  
  Fear not, aficionados of deep male friendships fortified by shared adventures, for your concerns about unnecessary romantic subplots eclipsing the central camaraderie are unfounded. Those familiar with the novelistic origins will recall its depiction of a same-sex love story, which often undergoes a transformation to adhere to stringent broadcasting regulations, sometimes even morphing into a heteronormative narrative. Initially, there are fleeting hints of a romantic thread, yet this subplot thankfully recedes into the background, allowing...

  the intricate tapestry of brotherhood to flourish, subtly tinged with domestic warmth as the story progresses.
  
  The evolving partnership between the astute advisor and his stalwart protector is depicted with a refreshing subtlety and believability, deviating from the hackneyed benchmarks of instant connection after a single heroic act that are so common in this genre's storytelling.
  
  In commendations:
  - The investment in production quality pays off, as evidenced by the environment's authenticity and the restraint in the use of glaring CGI.
  - The storyline is engaging with its cleverly constructed cases.
  - A cast of nuanced characters who are consistently engaging and three-dimensional.
  - Combat sequences impress, perhaps owing in part to the tutelage of an action legend, boasting a connection with realistic physics that's a rarity in this realm.
  - Performances across the board are commendable, and even an initially incongruous accent becomes endearing over time, resonating with the character's charm.
  - The portrayal of male bonding retains its integrity, never resorting to the contrived frailties that plague similar series.
  - Let's not forget the young prodigy - the clever child who inherits the best traits from her guardians.
  
  In criticisms:
  - At times, the editing and visual narrative can be jarring, albeit showing signs of improvement as the series unfolds.
  - The insertion of certain female roles may be a nod to censorship requirements, an imperfect solution but one that's ultimately tolerable.

• RoughYang30

  Overall 8.5

  Story 8,  Acting 9.5,  Music 8.5,  Rewatch Value 8.5

  In this delightful blend of wit and whodunnit, a trio of unlikely comrades unite, each wielding distinct expertise, to tackle criminal cases that threaten the very fabric of their nation. The debonair yet surprisingly inept when it comes to gastronomy, a sixth-ranked magistrate leads the charge with a blend of charm and chutzpah that could charm the dim sum out of a bamboo steamer. This quick-witted magistrate's antics and insatiable appetite for life (and food) are a joy to behold, especially when paired with his...

  secondary occupation as an erotic novelist – because why should sleuthing pay all the bills?
  
  Flanking him is the embodiment of stoicism, a high-ranking embroidered guard with a penchant for concocting dishes as lethal as his combat skills. This brooding figure provides a grounding counterpoint to the magistrate's flamboyance and, much to the delight of certain fan corners, shines as the yin to his domestic yang. Their living situation, ripe with tension and unspoken undertones, offers indulgence to fans seeking more than just partnership on the streets but within the subtlety of their shared abode as well.
  
  Rounding out this ensemble is the enigmatic court eunuch, an influencer in the corridors of power with loyalty as sharp as his intellect. His transactional view of relationships is clear-cut, but there's an undeniable charm that emerges through his steely exterior, making this triptych of talent complete. The rookie actor behind the eunuch delivers a performance that manages to balance sinister intentions and undeniable likeability, a potent mix for a character who plays with political strings.
  
  Melded into the historic backdrop of the Chenghua Emperor's reign, this series intertwines authentic characters and events with the fictional exploits of our heroes. Though some of the supporting cast fall into expected archetypes, their contributions remain integral to the unfolding of high-stakes scenarios spanning from the street to the throne, threaded together across episodes which lend depth and familiarity.
  
  As for the crimes themselves, they are less a labyrinthine challenge for the cerebral and more an invitation to ride along with the characters' journeys. The investigations occasionally meander into comedic diversions that may outstay their welcome for those craving a more straight-laced detective narrative.
  
  An unfortunate undercurrent of sexism tinges the portrayal of female characters, casting a dated shadow on an otherwise vibrant tapestry. The progressive harmonization of each gender's representation remains a hopeful development for future endeavors in storytelling.
  
  The series then elevates its visual narrative with fight sequences that are pure kinetic artistry, a thrilling yet clean homage to the distinct style of a legendary action icon, minus the habitual mid-fight slapstick. This refined approach to choreography is matched by cinematography that rivals that of the silver screen, betraying a budget that has been as generously dispensed as the blows in its breathtaking brawls.
  
  For devotees of this iconic martial artist and entertainer, the series serves as a delectable sampler of his multifaceted career. Although the reliance on physical comedy and spectacle might seem a staple of yesteryear, the series is evidence of a matured approach that still maintains the essence of his dynamic flare.
  
  This confectionery of a drama is best savored with an appreciation for lighter narratives and a palate for humor that doesn't aspire to be too profound. While the cases are robust, they rarely transcend into the realm of extraordinary, hence my personal grading leans towards the modest yet respectable side. However, for those seeking escapism with a side of chopsocky nostalgia, this may very well be a masterstroke.