Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• SadKingKong

  Overall 9

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

  Be aware that the following musings may reveal key plot elements.
  Mere moments after the credits rolled on this drama series, I find myself at a loss for words. It's not a sentiment borne out of regret; rather, it’s a profound satisfaction—a feeling seldom stirred within me by this network's offerings—that has taken hold. The journey embarked upon from the first few minutes signaled that this was the work of a deft storytelling crew. Guiding viewers along the eerie hallways and sinister stairwells, the series...

  laid the groundwork for an engrossing narrative web involving complex characters from the outset.
  
  The network's sophomore venture into urban fantasy—distinct from its initial supernatural series—feels long overdue, perhaps previously hamstrung by fiscal constraints or the caliber of available writers. This hesitation may also have stemmed from a desire to craft a distinctive urban fantasy amid a global landscape teeming with similar endeavors. Thankfully, this hesitation becomes inconsequential as the series taps into the rich tapestry of Hong Kong's own streets, resonating the city's unique essence rather than leaning too heavily on genre tropes.
  
  The allure here isn't derived solely from otherworldly elements; it's the human stories, societal critiques, and dimensional characters that demand attention. Audiences have emotionally invested in these nuanced portrayals—ache and outrage at a child's fate, empathy for a grandmother's tender gestures—transcending the screen to echo the experiences of ourselves or those we hold dear.
  
  Remarkably, the restraint shown in the use of CGI, especially in earlier episodes, elevates the series beyond the expected trap of second-rate fantasy fluff. Instead of succumbing to overt visual cues, the narrative trusts its audience, casting ambiguous threads that intertwine reality with the unknown, provoking a lingering disquiet. The lack of extraneous effects underscores the writing's potency, ensuring the focus remains on the undercurrents of social commentary it seeks to address.
  
  Performance-wise, the cast shines—particularly one actress's dual roles manifest as a testament to her range. One character breezes through life with a demeanor as light as her voice, while the other, shaped by adversity, stands her ground with a more weathered, solitary composure—vocal tones and physicality shifting in kind. Although her co-star holds his own, portraying likeable earnestness against suave charm, he's somewhat overshadowed by the sheer luminosity of his counterpart's performance.
  
  Without delving into an inexhaustible analysis, this series stands out as an earnest love letter to Hong Kong; atypical of the network's usual fare, yet undeniably rooted in the heart of the city. It's precisely these rare gems that deserve our collective celebration and support.

• tinykim93

  Overall 10

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

  This particular drama has swiftly soared to the ranks of my all-time favorite shows, synthesizing a varied palette of genres that is as delightfully haunting as it is resonating. Enveloped within the mysterious walls of a residence known as "Twilight Mansion," the central thread of the narrative weaves a tale of romance between its dedicated security guard, an earnest young man named Siu, and the enchanting flight attendant named Alex. Their unfolding romance is further mystified by Siu's dreams, which inexplicably tether his fate to...

  Alex and the mansion's enigmatic past.
  
  The lore of the mansion itself is a character in its own right, manifesting an axiom akin to folklore: a proverbial cat and mouse game that flips on its head when thunderstorms loom. This foundation anchors the drama in elements of supernatural fancy that I gleefully embrace. Across a tapestry of subplots, each resident carries their own cryptic past and contributes to the mansion's overall puzzle.
  
  The intimacy of the storytelling shines through in a dance between past and present, interconnecting love and destiny through the ripples of the butterfly effect. With its period-appropriate accoutrements, the historical flashback sequences are a feast for the senses, pairing visual opulence with a rich soundscape, all contributing to an extraordinarily gripping saga.
  
  Character development is handled with finesse; both protagonists evade the trappings of stereotype. Siu's affable, heartfelt nature and Alex's strength and autonomy make them individuals impossible not to root for, brought to life by performances that foster a genuine connection with viewers.
  
  The additional narratives unspooling within the confines of the building are nothing short of compelling, tackling social themes and everyday struggles through a fantastical lens—a spectrum of stories dealing with loneliness, discrimination, loss, and longing. The emotional weight of each story varies, some culminating in hope, others in despair, preserving a suspenseful unpredictability that is both refreshing and profound.
  
  With episode titles like "Sleepwalking," "Strange Dreams," and "Crow," the drama cements its atmospheric prowess, fueling my adoration even further. From the first episode to the last, I found myself completely engrossed. It mastered a delicate balance of heartwarming moments, bouts of laughter, and whispers of fear (shying away from outright horror), all while catering to an unyielding interest.
  
  The conclusion of this series is bittersweet, as departing from its world and its denizens leaves behind an echo of longing. The collective journey, both beautiful and somber, is one I was not ready to see end. This is a drama that greeted me with surprise at its depth and narrative richness, securing a spot in my memory as a masterpiece of storytelling, delivering a heartfelt, multifaceted experience I won't soon forget.

• coolwill3

  Overall 8

  Story 9,  Acting 9,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 6

  Initially, my expectations for this particular drama were quite far off the mark—I had pegged it as a horror series, which is not my cup of tea. However, my curiosity was piqued by mentions of its unexpected narrative twists, prompting me to give it a chance. To my pleasant surprise, moments ripe for cheap thrills were instead artfully crafted into engaging, richly layered narratives.
  
  The series unfolds within the confines of a single building, weaving together a tapestry of tales that are by turns tender and...

  unsettling, each imbued with a potent sense of humanity. These vignettes touch on the complexities of life, often using symbolism to underscore their points. The ongoing saga of Alex and Coco provides a thread of mystery that has me eagerly anticipating how their fates will unravel in the anticipated follow-up season.
  
  With a cast as varied as the stories themselves, the acting remains consistently impressive, bringing depth and authenticity to each character. This ensemble performance is key to making the series' portrayal of everyday struggles feel immediate and true to life.
  
  A certain song becomes a familiar refrain throughout the series—heard so frequently it nearly becomes a character in its own right. Despite its repetition, the tune has lodged itself fondly in my memory; its simplicity and resonance make it a timeless classic that underscores the show's emotional beats.
  
  In essence, this series is like a collection of short stories, each 'chapter' offering its own unique flavor—some will lift your spirits, while others may give pause as they reflect the trials we all face. It's a sensitively crafted drama that delivers a satisfying blend of the unexpected and the relatable.