Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• slowangelina

  Overall 9

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

  Based on a well-known novel, the TV series is a departure from its source material due to script changes. Although billed as a wuxia drama, it encompasses elements of romance, court intrigue, and political scheming, with a particular emphasis on romance and courtly affairs. The production boasts a generous budget, evident in its high-quality sets, costumes, and visual effects. Directed by Yin Tao, known for previous acclaimed works, the series opens with the characters' adventures in Jianghu, intertwining their fates with court politics. The narrative...

  strikes a balance between pacing and character development, drawing viewers into a web of intricate plotlines.
  
  The standout aspects of the series are its lead characters and well-choreographed fight sequences. Both protagonists exude strength and intelligence, engaging in compelling banter and showcasing a balanced dynamic as they face adversaries together. One character's strategic prowess contrasts with the other's daring spirit, creating a captivating push-and-pull dynamic. The fight scenes are executed with precision and energy, devoid of unnecessary slow-motion effects, enhancing the viewing experience.
  
  Fronted by charismatic leads, the cast delivers noteworthy performances, with the chemistry between them adding depth to their interactions. While the series shines in portraying character dynamics, it falls short in terms of editing, leading to a rushed storyline and uneven visual effects. The prolonged focus on political intricacies detracts from the Jianghu plotline, resulting in an imbalance that compromises the overall narrative coherence. Additionally, the CGI quality diminishes towards the conclusion, detracting from the impact of pivotal scenes.
  
  Despite its flaws, the series offers a captivating blend of romance, intrigue, and action, making it a suitable choice for viewers seeking a lighthearted historical drama or exploring the genre for the first time.

• CoolJamie41

  Overall 9.5

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

  This visually stunning, action-packed TV series boasts a mesmerizing duo at its core - Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi, known collectively as the Hei-Bai Fengxi pair. They embody a complex relationship characterized by rivalry, camaraderie, and a touch of romance. Bai Fengxi is depicted as a fierce yet charming heroine with a hidden royal identity, while Hei Fengxi exudes elegance and cunning beneath his hero facade, navigating palace intrigues while harboring a soft spot for Bai Fengxi.
  
  The chemistry between the leads is palpable, with both...

  actors delivering nuanced performances that elevate the characters' depth and charm. The supporting cast adds layers to the narrative, with standout performances that enrich the viewing experience. The production values, from costumes to CGI, are top-notch, enhancing the story's immersive quality.
  
  While the series delves into political machinations, its heart lies in the journey of Hei and Bai Fengxi as they navigate personal and professional challenges. The soundtrack complements the narrative beautifully, enhancing key moments with emotive melodies.
  
  In conclusion, this series is a captivating blend of martial arts, romance, and intrigue, anchored by a compelling central relationship and elevated by stellar performances and production quality. It's a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and dynamic character dynamics.

• jollycamel57

  Overall 8.5

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

  Brilliant Wuxia Drama Unveils a Riveting Tale! A mesmerizing concoction of martial arts mastery and strategic alliances, this Wuxia drama paints a compelling narrative rich in tradition and ambition. At the heart of the story are two formidable martial artists - Hei Feng Xi and Bai Feng Xi, whose intricate dance of friendship and rivalry adds layers of depth to the plot.
  
  Hei Feng Xi, the enigmatic Head of the Foundain Abode and one of the esteemed Four Gentries, finds an unexpected ally in Bai Feng...

  Xi, a fierce and beautiful warrior from the Tianshuang sect. Despite their contrasting personalities - Hei's poise juxtaposed with Bai's wild spirit - the duo's unbreakable bond transcends mere camaraderie. Unbeknownst to many, they harbor royal identities and aspirations that intertwine with the fate of their kingdoms.
  
  A standout feature of this drama is the immaculate portrayal of Hei and Bai Feng Xi by the talented cast. Their on-screen chemistry is nothing short of mesmerizing, drawing viewers into a world where alliances are tested, and loyalties are forged in the crucible of destiny. The impeccable performances by the lead actors showcase their versatility and emotional depth, elevating the storytelling to greater heights.
  
  Supporting this powerhouse duo are a host of familiar faces adept at bringing life to their roles, adding nuanced layers to an already intricate narrative. The seamless blend of romance and partnership between the central characters is a refreshing take on traditional love stories, emphasizing mutual respect and unwavering support.
  
  While the drama's breathtaking cinematography and meticulously choreographed fight sequences dazzle audiences, a few shortcomings detract from its overall impact. The plot's initial complexity may leave some viewers bewildered, and certain rushed segments towards the finale hinder the full exploration of pivotal character arcs.
  
  Despite these minor flaws, the drama's intricate web of relationships and its poignant exploration of ambition and sacrifice make it a riveting watch for Wuxia enthusiasts. From the magnetic performances to the stunning visual aesthetics, this series weaves a tale of epic proportions that lingers in the mind long after the final curtain falls.

• HotInterstellar90

  Overall 8

  Story 7.5,  Acting 9,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 7.5

  This TV drama, inspired by a popular novel with a strong female lead, faced production challenges when the director and a key writer exited amid disputes. Despite accusations of borrowing from other shows, the final product surprisingly came together well. The plot revolves around a missing imperial token that sparks a power struggle among vassal states. Martial artists Bai Fengxi and Hei Fengxi find themselves entangled in a web of intrigue, uncovering a secretive sect with ties to the empire's fate. The highlight of the...

  drama is the dynamic between the two protagonists, portrayed with great chemistry and depth.
  
  The characters are a refreshing departure from typical tropes, particularly the smart, independent women who drive the narrative. While the drama excels in showcasing their growth, it falls short of fully developing their stories. The lead actors deliver commendable performances, with Zhao Lusi shining in a role that showcases both her comedic and dramatic talents. Yang Yang impresses with his expressive eyes and romantic gestures, though his portrayal could have delved deeper into the character's complexities.
  
  The narrative falters in its attempt to mimic elements from other shows, particularly in an extended arc that feels derivative and lacks originality. The rushed final episodes leave some plot threads unresolved, diminishing the impact of the climax. Despite its flaws, the drama manages to entertain with its blend of romance, intrigue, and humor.
  
  Ultimately, "Who Rules the World" is a mixed bag, offering moments of enjoyment interspersed with familiar storytelling tropes. While it may not break new ground, it provides a lighthearted and engaging viewing experience for fans of the genre.

• wildfargo

  Overall 9

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

  The series under review, known for its intricate storytelling and dynamic characters, took me by surprise with its depth and entertainment value. Set in a world filled with martial arts, palace politics, and epic battles, it follows the journey of two martial artists navigating a treacherous landscape filled with power-hungry individuals vying for control.
  
  The series is based on a bestselling novel and boasts a talented production team, including experienced directors and action choreographers. Despite facing some controversies during production, the end result is a visually...

  stunning and engaging show that captures the essence of the wuxia genre.
  
  One of the standout aspects of the series is its portrayal of chivalry, heroism, and love within a meticulously crafted fictional universe. While the pacing may feel uneven at times, the intricate web of politics and intrigue keeps viewers engaged as the story unfolds towards its epic conclusion.
  
  The romance in the series is particularly noteworthy, with the lead actors delivering heartfelt performances that resonate with authenticity and charm. Their on-screen chemistry adds an extra layer of depth to the narrative, making their love story one of the most endearing aspects of the show.
  
  From a technical standpoint, the series shines with its production design, cinematography, and fight choreography. The martial arts sequences are breathtaking, showcasing elaborate wirework and visually stunning battle scenes that captivate the audience.
  
  The ensemble cast, led by the charismatic performances of the main actors, brings the world of the series to life with compelling characterizations and captivating interactions. Each character, from the leads to the supporting roles, contributes to the rich tapestry of the narrative.
  
  While the series may falter in certain areas, such as rushed storytelling towards the end and underdeveloped subplots, its overall impact is undeniable. Fans of the genre will appreciate the series for its ambitious scope and memorable characters, making it a recommended watch for those looking for a captivating blend of wuxia, politics, and romance.