Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• livelyleonardo83

  Overall 10

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

  An Intellectual Feast for the Contemplative (While endeavoring to avoid giving away too much, I've peppered this commentary with hints that could enrich the experience for those who contemplate it prior to immersing themselves in the narrative.)
  
  Delving into this multifaceted drama is an undertaking that might leave one at a loss for where to commence. Initially, I was swept up merely by the emotive atmosphere elicited by the sublime cinematography and storytelling. One could, if they choose to surrender to the experience, set aside reason...

  and immerse themselves in the existence of these characters, intimately confronting mortality and the complexity seething within the human spirit.
  
  The narrative then delves into a profound exploration of human behavior under the weight of an impending finality, excavating the themes of existential anxiety and the stages of grief:
  Denial
  Anger
  Bargaining
  Depression and Grief
  Acceptance
  
  These stages manifest through the narrative's ingenious repetitions, which, although tedious to some viewers, resonated deeply with my own sensibilities. Without divulging too much, those acquainted with the story will recognize these transitional phases of human emotional response.
  
  As someone who has recently faced the fears of a life-threatening health scare, the protagonist's turmoil resounded with me instantly—her initial dismissal, the mounting anger, the ensuing sorrow, the concern for those left behind, the resentment towards cosmic injustice, and that haunting desire to be forgotten.
  
  Another narrative stratum is the existential odyssey of the central characters—both shackled by despair and a longing for annihilation to escape perpetual suffering. Both characters feel estranged, managing their torment in divergent ways—one with detachment and bitterness, the other through excessive accommodation and the harmful internalization of pain. Each learns a pivotal lesson: to embrace love despite life's fleetingness and to seek self-fulfillment in the face of the inevitable. To live fully is to learn, and learning entails accepting both anguish and delight.
  
  What could be more poetic than the conundrum of needing to find solace in impending doom as a means to survival?
  
  Yet another layer encompasses the religious undertones, presenting two divine counterparts—one a creator, the other a destructor—both arising from humanity's need to rationalize the randomness of suffering, a notion recurrent in many faiths. In particular, Buddhism's perspective on enduring and understanding life’s cyclic pain until enlightenment is achieved is subtly paralleled in the regressive patterns of the characters, especially when both protagonists glimpse what might have been had they not evolved through their experiences.
  
  Beneath the surface lies a wealth of symbols—flora, peculiar dialogues, and literary references—which I confess required a second viewing to truly apprehend, having been initially consumed by raw emotion. Though a self-proclaimed philosophy enthusiast, the nuanced allusions to Nietzsche's "Thus Spoke Zarathustra" initially eluded me, its echoes in the show's discourse and tableaux becoming only evident upon further investigation.
  
  Additionally, the soundtrack merits special mention for its exceptional alignment with the unfolding scenes—a rarity that piqued my usual indifference towards original soundtracks.
  
  Lastly, I refrain from evaluating the series based on its concluding chapter, a practice developed from the recognition that finales often falter, tangled in their own ambitious denouements.

• DarkJennifer47

  Overall 9

  Story 8,  Acting 10,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 7.5

  An Unexpected Delight
  Entering into the realm of this fantastical series, I harbored no specific benchmarks or anticipations—a stance that perhaps laid the groundwork for the unexpected joy I derived from its narrative.
  
  My affection for this drama begins with its richly drawn key characters, whose existence never succumbs to caricature. Their arcs unfold with careful attention, avoiding rushed revelations or half-baked emotions. Anchored by remarkable performances, the female protagonist's ability to solicit tears through sheer force of talent, and the male lead's compelling presence, capable of...

  telling a thousand words with a mere glance, their relationship stands as a testament to the power of nuanced storytelling and believable character dynamics.
  
  There exists a poetry to the series, evoking a feeling that each development, hypothesis, and breadcrumb left along the way connects poetically to form a harmonious whole. The craft and care with which common tropes are weaved into an original closure are indicative of the writer's skilled hand—a tribute to the idea that beneath the surface of every episode, a poetic message awaits.
  
  The themes exploring life's depth and the intersections with the ethereal forces defining our existence continue to resonate powerfully within me. These encounters, devoid of any cloying saccharine, struck a chord and offered a multifaceted journey through the show's duration.
  
  As relationships blossom on screen, particularly the central 'enemies to lovers' arc, there's an undeniable magnetism between the co-stars that make even the most mundane conversational threads captivating. Rarely have I seen such a compelling portrait of fantastical romance grounded so firmly in the realm of raw, human emotion.
  
  With regards to the portrayal of life and death, the elegance of these existential personifications is approached with creativity and poignancy. Avoiding spoilers, it is worth mentioning that the scenes between these incarnations are rich with emotion and thought-provoking dialogue.
  
  The narrative does not stagnate; on the contrary, it flourishes, particularly in the latter episodes. It's during these climactic moments that storytelling and character arcs culminate in a satisfying crescendo of emotion and resolution.
  
  Moreover, commendation must be given to the cinematography and the soundtrack, both of which enhance the show's aesthetic without overshadowing its essence. Through simple yet profound visuals and a poignant musical score, the drama captures the beauty in life’s minutiae, effectively elevating the storytelling.
  
  However, the series is not without its minor missteps. Concerning the secondary love triangle, its portrayal felt somewhat lacking in depth when juxtaposed with the central love story. While the intentions behind these secondary relationships became clearer as the series progressed, the emotional payoff did not resonate with me to the extent I had hoped.
  
  In essence, the drama resonated due to its core characters and their interactions with the supporting cast. The profound messages, the compelling portrayal of relationships, and the beauty found in everyday life all contributed to a wholesome viewing experience – a bright spot during the monotonous days of lockdown in my country.
  
  Final thoughts? Each viewer will undoubtedly navigate through this tale's landscape differently. While I harbored a few reservations, particularly with elements of the secondary plot, the central narrative, bolstered by strong performances, ensured my undivided attention and emotional investment from start to finish. In the vast expanse of media, this series has solidified its place amidst my cherished experiences.

• sweeturanus59

  Overall 7.5

  Story 7.5,  Acting 8.5,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 7

  Caution: This critique may reveal key plot elements
  
  Untapped Promise
  An initially gripping saga and promising premise devolved into an overtly maudlin affair. It was poised to be a sensation, alas, it wasn't to be.
  
  What were the makings of a sensation? It boasted a beloved fantasy milieu, an enigmatic and ever-youthful protagonist, an ensemble of top-tier talent, palpable romantic dynamics, and an initially enthralling narrative arc.
  
  So, what led to its shortfall? A muddled sequence of events, underwhelming presentation, subpar character progression, an anticlimactic peak, and,...

  above all, an overload of repetitive sorrowful separations and laments from a heroine confronting her mortality.
  
  I found the early episodes delightful, marked by the heroine's pact with a doom-bringing entity, sparking their doomed liaison. Her vow to ensnare his affections—classic melodrama—was a hook I relished. Yet their love progressed too hastily, slipping into cyclical emotional farewells that felt unsubstantiated, puzzlingly void of the depths one would expect from sacrifice-borne love. Visually, they were a match, yet something in the narrative underpinnings was amiss.
  
  Initially, the convolution of dialogue—particularly between this immortal being and a celestial character—suggested a strategic buildup. This buildup, however, fizzled into insignificance. The anticipation of narrative twists led simply to disappointment. It was akin to enjoying candy floss: delightful at first taste yet dissolving too quickly, leaving an unfulfilling aftertaste. Indeed, the second act of the series felt hollow. The celestial character, with her untold potential, inconsequentially drifted into the background, succumbing to fate far too readily: a curious bystander in the central couple's saga.
  
  A nuanced exploration of evolving emotions would have served better than the repetitive cycle of tears, flight, and reunion. As for the secondary figures, their triangular drama proved tedious, though an exception exists—the intriguing role of one who delivered confessions, sarcasm, and humor with an earnest stoicism
  
  My commitment to the series persisted largely for the performers. I savored the lead actor's magnetic charm, the lead actress's endearing expressions, and the rival's resonant tones. Beyond the allure of the cast, the storyline's predictability dampened excitement. The leisurely pace allowed for missed episodes without loss of continuity, indicative of the tale's straightforward trajectory.
  
  This perspective is personal, and diverse opinions certainly populate the discussion boards. Despite the shortcomings, I don't regret the watch, hence it scrapes by with a grade just beyond mediocrity. It finds itself outshone amidst a sea of competing dramas, yet, in the grand scope, it's far from the worst. It's decent—just one amongst many, neither a standout nor a calamity.

• CrazyJupiter

  Overall 6

  Story 5.5,  Acting 7,  Music 6,  Rewatch Value 5.5

  Delving into the heart of one of the most polarizing dramas of recent times requires a bit of a preamble to address the sharply divided audience opinions. On one side of the divide are fervent fans who can't get enough, while on the opposite, critics brand it a misstep in storytelling altogether. For those pondering whether to dive into the series, one begs the question: is it truly worth the watch?
  
  Central to this debate, and unanimously recognized by both fans and detractors, is the casting....

  For enthusiasts of Korean dramas, it's likely the luminary ensemble was the initial draw. Celebrated actors rise to the occasion, with our leading lady portraying a character faced with life’s cruelest twist, and her male co-star breaking away from his usual roles to embrace the enigmatic complexity of a celestial being, while a suave and smooth-talking secondary lead delivers witty repartee. Not to overlook a vibrant supporting crew that ensures the palette of the drama is never one note.
  
  Yet despite such a promising cast, the show stumbled, and many point to the writing as the crux of its troubles. The series certainly tries to cast a wide narrative net with its foundational premise centering on a protagonist battling against her own destiny. The intersection of her path with a personification of disaster promises a combustible romantic trajectory. But here lies the rub; the reliance on well-worn tropes and clichés that unfortunately don't always evolve into substantial plot or character development. The gravitas of the lead character's illness is lost in translation, her dire straits feeling more like a contrived mechanism for drama than a chance for profound personal exploration. Similarly, her otherworldly counterpart teeters on the brink of being fascinating but is hampered by sudden and jarring personality shifts.
  
  Affectionate viewers may wax poetic about the transformative nature of the central relationship, while others see it as narrative convenience. With a dance of push and pull, the series plays with a storyline of manipulation, desire, and retreat - a ballet of emotions and intent that can mesmerize or muddle depending on one's view.
  
  A spotlight on the chemistry between the leads cannot obscure the ways they are shortchanged by a story that relies too heavily on a 'contractual' device. This nifty narrative construct, while initially captivating, becomes more of a plot device than an exploration of lore within the drama's world. And while it might not be pivotal to have a showdown with a nefarious villain or an internal protagonist-antagonist conflict, the series' final trajectory towards the protagonist's ultimate decision sometimes seems secondary to the 'pairing off' of characters instead of integrating both aspects more cohesively.
  
  Beyond the main tug-of-war, there is enjoyment to be found in the ancillary characters – from a brother fraught with his own demons, to a trio ensnared in a romantic triangle – crafting moments that are endearing yet sometimes feel disjointed from the main storyline.
  
  Subplots and secondary characters often run parallel without intersecting, creating the sensation of watching two separate dramas merged into one. Issues with an intriguing deity-character are felt, both in the opaque character development and a performance that disappointingly reads as flat rather than divine.
  
  The drama's finale, ambiguous and open to speculation until its unveiling, may not have been catastrophic but lacked conviction in tying up loose ends and answering lingering questions.
  
  So, is this drama worth your time? It's a matter of perspective. If you revel in romance that doesn’t stray far from tropes, appreciate beautiful cinematography, and don't mind some loose philosophical musings, the drama will likely resonate. But if your taste skews towards tightly-woven narratives with layers of character depth, you might find yourself wanting.

• EnergeticJupiter

  Overall 10

  Story 9.5,  Acting 10,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 8

  A tapestry of compelling characters and a masterfully woven narrative has not only captured my attention but also has securely positioned itself amongst my top-tier dramas. The story, the characters, the production – it's as though they were tailored to fit my very preferences. Here's a breakdown of why this drama has left such an indelible mark on my heart.
  
  Embodied with sheer likability, the female protagonist resonates with me profoundly. She's crafted with a depth and authenticity that stands apart from the archetypal heroine –...

  her external composure hiding a tumult of suppressed emotions, all to spare her loved ones from worry. Her honesty, her natural charm, her inadvertent humor, have me wishing we could transcend the screen and become friends.
  
  Witnessing the male lead's evolution throughout the series is nothing short of remarkable. His journey from a cold exterior to a warm, life-embracing presence is emblematic of the layered, realistic character development the show champions. His respect and genuine affection for the female lead devoid of any coercion, alongside the mystique and wisdom of the deity character, are testament to a cast of characters designed to be both endearing and respected.
  
  Let's talk about story cohesion. Everything clicks into place with intention and satisfaction, growing organically from episode to episode. There's a sense of fulfillment as every piece of the puzzle fits just right, yielding a narrative that satisfies on a deeply gratifying level.
  
  The scriptwriting is a feast for the intellect and the soul. Eloquence reigns with lines that linger for contemplation, especially the deity's, while the subtlety of the humor is so in sync with my own, it leaves me bursting with laughter.
  
  A refreshing departure from the well-trodden path of miscommunication, our protagonists excel in the art of dialogue. Misunderstandings are minor and never spiral into overblown conflicts. Problems are tackled in tandem, and the transparency they practice with one another is a refreshing attribute of their relationship.
  
  Then there's the storytelling's natural flow – no artificial cliffhangers or distracting cutaways that leave you hanging. Each episode and scene flows to a natural close, providing a seamless viewing experience that respects the viewer's need for closure, yet kindles anticipation for what's to come.
  
  Pacing is key in this storytelling marvel—no filler scenes present here. Every moment is purposeful, driving the story forward in a way that feels both natural and engaging, making the words 'boring' or 'dragging' foreign to this drama's vocabulary.
  
  The performances? They're nothing short of sensational. The lead actors share a chemistry that transcends the screen, likely a testament to their off-screen rapport, which shines through in their effortlessly genuine interactions.
  
  Not to be overlooked, the secondary love story provides a poignant exploration of growth, of letting go, and the transformative power of moving on. It's a relatable subplot that offers a meaningful counterbalance to the central romance.
  
  The Original Soundtracks (OSTs) further elevate the emotional landscape of the drama. Not just background music, these tracks encapsulate the essence of each scene, engraving themselves into the memory long after the credits roll.
  
  In essence, this drama is a resounding recommendation from me, a gem that I encourage viewers to explore. Whether it's through its music, its storytelling, or the profound connections it fosters with its characters, it has undoubtedly left a mark on my heart, and I suspect it will do the same for you.