Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• quickcamel

  Overall 7

  Story 7,  Acting 8,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 6

  This series certainly has its merits, with an opening season that set the bar high, captivating viewers with its mix of high-stakes medical scenarios and a stellar ensemble cast. As an enthusiast for medical dramas, I was willing to look past the near-miraculous operations and the occasional narrative oversight. However, there's a singular aspect that significantly dims my appreciation for the show.
  
  It's the character portrayed by a certain actress - one that she seems to fall back on with perplexing regularity. Bringing memories of her...

  less-than-acclaimed role in a previous drama, known for its aggravating dynamics, her portrayal in this series is frustratingly similar. The character's history of questionable choices, marked by a blend of naivety and selfishness, is one thing; but watching these traits influence her current romantic entanglements, particularly with the show’s doctor protagonist, takes it to another level of vexation.
  
  Her tendency to make continuously poor decisions, resulting in a string of self-induced misfortunes, is not only maddening to witness but also causes an incongruity in the otherwise sharp narrative. Most baffling is the character's resolution to relegate a potentially deep relationship to mere friendship after a sequence of blunders - a choice that leaves viewers bewildered.
  
  Had it not been for this singular, jarring character depiction, I would readily rate the show significantly higher. Yet, this element alone has a pronounced enough effect to tug the series down from the heights it might have otherwise soared to in my estimation.

• wisehitchcock85

  Overall 8

  Story 7,  Acting 10,  Music 4,  Rewatch Value 8

  This article may include spoilers.
  The sophomore outing of the medical drama failed to live up to its initial promise. Despite a strong start, viewers may have found themselves somewhat disillusioned as several narrative strands seemed to veer off course without clear resolution. A notable example includes the character of the ambitious medical protege and his companion, whose transition to an overseas institution was less than satisfactorily portrayed.
  
  Moreover, the enigmatic circumstances surrounding a key character's fate, as established in the cliffhanger of the prior season,...

  were regrettably left dangling. This lack of continuity in the storytelling could potentially alienate those who, like myself, approach such works with a critical eye for narrative integrity.
  
  The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast, which may be the singular saving grace of an otherwise lacking script. Engaging performances provide a veneer of allure, yet cannot wholly compensate for the absent depth and coherence one might expect from such a heralded lineup.
  
  Without negating its merits, it's worth noting that other titles in the medical genre, although perhaps absent the glitz of a celebrated cast, have outshone this series in terms of storytelling—ironically, some without the prospect of further chapters.

• coolnam27

  Overall 8.5

  Story 8.5,  Acting 9,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 5

  This review may contain spoilers
  There's something inherently reassuring about a well-crafted medical drama that emanates from this dynamic city known for its cinematic prowess. The anticipation was already palpable within the community of enthusiasts, myself included, for the follow-up installment to a previously successful medical narrative. Having dived into the latest offering, I must concur with the widespread sentiment—this sequel has, impressively, surpassed its predecessor.
  
  With a narrative pulsating at the heart of healthcare reform, the series intricately interlaces real-life medical crises and contemporary societal...

  challenges within its overarching theme. This artistic tapestry of storytelling not only ventures into the complex labyrinth of medical bureaucracy but also touches the soul of biomedical ethics. The expansive ensemble cast breathes life into their roles, successfully reinstating a semblance of confidence in the healthcare profession, especially after my recent unsavory personal experiences.
  
  The commitment of the physicians on screen is unyielding as they converge on the battlefield of healthcare once more. Their crusade? To compel the government to demystify and democratize the Drug Formulary, a move which promises a potential lifeline for patients burdened with the exorbitant costs of treatments for rare illnesses. The doctors' selfless acts – deferring treatments, risking infection, enduring injuries, and jeopardizing their careers for the sake of their patients – fortify the narrative, epitomizing unity as their strength.
  
  As for the performances, the camaraderie among the professionals feels genuine. It's as if the hospital corridors have nurtured not only their professional growth but also cultivated a familial bond, extending beyond the confines of the series into audiences' hearts.
  
  The original soundtrack, which reverberates with emotion, fluidly complements the visual storytelling and echoes the poignant tunes of its prequel, reinforcing the drama's soul-stirring essence. For those curious, here's an audio embrace—a medley by the very same melodious voice from the initial series ([URL provided]). This is a series I intend to revisit and share, an ensemble piece that merits a communal viewing experience, even if the emotional weight might be a touch too heavy for a solo rewatch.
  
  On a side note regarding character development—a small thread of incredulity weaves through the fabric of the story. The remarkable recovery of a particular neurosurgeon stretches the imagination, summoning questions of destiny or divine intervention. It's a sliver of a flaw in an otherwise compelling narrative, where sometimes, we are left to wonder if life indeed imitates art or if it's the other way round.

• fluffyghostbusters

  Overall 6.5

  Story 6.5,  Acting 8,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 6

  The latest offering from the renowned television broadcaster left something to be desired. While I hold no grand illusions when it comes to this broadcaster's recent track record, the narrative presented in their latest drama was rife with inconsistencies and lacked depth in character progression—elements that stood out starkly to the discerning viewer. The tendency of the production crew to entangle themselves in a web of overreaching story arcs seemed to plague this series, resulting in a final product that failed to make its mark....

  It appears that when tackling themes of considerable scale and complexity, the broadcaster's constraints become all too apparent. Regrettably, there is little indication that they plan to pivot away from these ambitious but ultimately unfulfilling narrative attempts in the foreseeable future. Dive into my thorough critique for a detailed analysis.

• GentleOh

  Overall 1

  Story 2,  Acting 2,  Music 1,  Rewatch Value 1

  Caution: Potential spoilers ahead.
  Imagine expecting the ups and downs of a thrill ride only to find yourself on a monotonous carousel. This sums up the series in question—it is, in essence, disappointingly anti-climactic. With a central theme circling around the noble cause of seeking funds to democratize medical care, one might anticipate a stirring narrative—yet the delivery is inexplicably tedious. The series repeatedly teases at looming disasters that never materialize. Take, for instance, the characters Zoey and Yan, who each endure a stabbing. Remarkably,...

  they make implausibly swift and complete recoveries. And don't get me started on the surgeon, YT, who defies all odds by returning to the operating room without a single complication post-surgery, as if he were invincible—a medical marvel that stretches credulity to its limits.
  
  Attempts to diversify the plot with additional threads only lead to disappointment with their lack of development or unrealistic resolutions. Zoey's miscarriage is portrayed with a striking lack of emotional depth, and her relationship with Tong Ming seems unaffected by her trauma. Similarly, the character infatuated with Vincent displays a disconcerting lack of response to a traumatic experience, inexplicably persistent in her romantic pursuit.
  
  The narrative arc of the supporting cast suffers from neglect as if their presence is merely ornamental. Rachel's previously established fear of surgery vanishes without a trace, and her romantic subplot is as engaging as watching paint dry—I can scarcely recall her boyfriend's name.
  
  Furthermore, the series' English theme song is egregiously overplayed, making its repeated intrusions into scenes feel like an auditory assault.
  
  For those intrigued by the series' medical theme, there are far more engrossing options available that truly capture the spirit of pediatric care. Consider this a time-saving public service announcement. You're welcome, dear viewers.