Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• SleepyGhostbusters

  Overall 6

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

  Be aware, potential plot revelations ahead
  I'm quite captivated by the series thus far! Having reached a specific episode milestone, the revival of an iconic period classic reimagined in a contemporary urban jungle is quite the spectacle. In a bizarre twist of fate, the familiar figures we once knew have seemingly returned in new guises, living out a reincarnated existence. It's a peculiar twist where a lightning strike awakens deeply buried past-life memories, but somehow it adds to the charm of the series for me....

  While this concept may raise eyebrows, I'm wholly on board.
  
  We follow the characters on their quest, mirroring the original in their search for a mystical treasure referenced in ancient texts. This narrative carries over into the current era, with a humorous twist on the gender-swapped interpretations of our protagonists. One in particular, portrayed by an actress who must adopt masculine mannerisms, provides many a comedic moment—even if it does stretch the boundaries of believability.
  
  There is, however, an aspect that grates on me. The role of one central figure, as portrayed by an actress, comes off as jarring compared to the original character's portrayal. What once was an amusing, albeit flawed male character now feels somewhat reduced and oversimplified when embodied by a female. It's not the actress's talent that's in question but rather the manner in which the character is written.
  
  Compounding the discomfort is another character who exhibits troubling behavior that dangerously borders on abusive—a stark and unsettling element within the show's otherwise lighter narrative.
  
  A particular low point for me is the series' foray into musical escapades, dominated by cringe-inducing rap battles. As I've yet to conclude the series, I'm hopeful these segments are retired.
  
  As for the series' conclusion, it succumbs to the familiar pitfalls of hasty wrap-ups that often plague this network, causing what was a solid score to dip somewhat. Yet, I cannot completely disregard the moments of levity and wit.
  
  The climactic reveals pivot from the coveted treasure to a panacea capable of miraculous cures, stirring questions about its historical utilization—or lack thereof. The treasure hunt narrative navigates through predictable pathways, including indestructible ancient tech, hidden vaults easily uncovered, and cliché-laden quests fraught with peril. Despite the limited special effects budget resulting in less-than-convincing CGI, the charm remains intact.
  
  Discord among the characters ensues as the sudden antagonist's rise to power takes center stage, propelling a narrative twist that was unforeseen. In these final moments, the production delivers exciting altercations filled with dynamic action sequences. Nonetheless, the resolution feels abrupt and far too convenient, especially in the romantic development of two main characters—a relationship that seemed tidal rather than organically evolved over the course of the narrative.
  
  The conclusion stumbles with a hasty fast-forward and an off-screen romance development, leaving a sense of narrative dissatisfaction. Moreover, the fantastical finale offers a peculiar spectacle of a winged creature's transformation that's both grandiose and baffling, given its apparent absence from the public and media scrutiny in a bustling metropolis.
  
  In a silver-lining perspective, the ensemble cast, particularly actors typically relegated to supporting roles, relished the expanded opportunity to showcase their talents, adding to the series' highlights.
  
  Through the lens of storytelling, the series both entertains and puzzles, proving that, despite its shortcomings, it still manages to capture the essence of an epic treasure hunt with a modern twist.