Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• EnergeticCinderella

  Overall 9

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

  Please be mindful that this commentary may reveal pivotal plot elements.
  
  A Refreshing Gem in the Pantheon of Yearly Offerings
  
  In my quest to unearth television delights that keep one perpetually on tenterhooks, I chanced upon a drama that has swiftly ascended to the pinnacle of this year's viewing pleasures. The allure commenced with a synopsis that enigmatically held my attention, and so using actors' renown as a barometer was abandoned (though I confess it took multiple episodes to recognize Wei Daxun's commanding presence as the...

  protagonist).
  
  The initial unveiling of its promotional artwork on a streaming platform some months prior to release left me simmering in a stew of skepticism. My aversion to investing in narratives that might lose their appeal halfway was on high alert. Much to my satisfaction, not only did I embark on this series' journey, but I navigated its entirety with an unwavering commitment that spanned mere days.
  
  While romance seemed to be a promised hallmark of the series, as suggested by its categorization, those anticipations were only partially fulfilled. Instead, our principal characters embarked on an odyssey replete with trials and tribulations. Fear not, for the romantic at heart, as their journey is supplemented by two endearing secondary couples. The scriptwriters excelled in sculpting the character of Tang Jiayu, presenting her as a fortress of maturity, shaped by life's myriad tribulations – a fortress not so easily conquered by tender emotions.
  
  The series boasts an array of merits:
  - Multi-dimensional characters traverse our screens, their actions and histories unfolded in such a manner that animosity is replaced by understanding.
  - An endgame that defies expectations yet leaves viewers with a contented sigh.
  - A sparing use of graphic medical procedures is a considerate nod to the squeamish amongst us (a detail to which I, for one, am indifferent).
  - The auditory landscape is graced by Zhou Shen's vocal artistry, elevating the opening theme to a sensory delight.
  - Episodes depicting the evolution of relationships dance on a tightrope of realism – from adversaries blossoming into allies to the tender reciprocation of respect.
  
  Yet, no piece is without its blemishes:
  - A palpable deficit in the screen time allotted to our lead characters, Tang Jiayu and Ye Yiming, left many viewers yearning for more.
  - The narrative, not shying away from the grim reaper's embrace, paints a landscape of mortality that might leave one's nerves frayed in anticipation of the next poignant exit.
  
  The structural pacing of the series aligns neither with the brevity of a miniseries nor the marathon of an epic saga – it finds itself comfortably settled in the median, characteristic of its format.
  
  In sum, this tapestry of medical endeavors won't align with every palate – it's an exquisite dish for devotees of the genre, whereas romantic epicureans might find their appetites only partially satiated. My endorsement comes with the caveat of personal inclination. Should you choose to immerse yourself in this drama as I did, may it be an experience that resonates. Wishing you a journey through its episodes as enrapturing as mine and a day nothing short of spectacular.

• giantjumanji

  Overall 3

  Story 8,  Acting 6,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 1.5

  Caution: This review may include spoilers
  
  
  In this medical series, the dissemination of obscure medical conditions stands out as an exceptional feature. As a viewer with immense curiosity about the intricacies of human health, I appreciated the enlightening exposure to ailments that are typically not the focus of mainstream discussion. Had the series pared down the romantic entanglements of its protagonists, it could have capitalized on its educational strengths, elevating its overall impact.
  
  The romance, which ultimately felt shoehorned, culminated in the female lead's last-minute acceptance...

  of the male lead's affection. This, for me, was one of the series' pitfalls. The male protagonist was frequently depicted as someone whose persistence bordered on desperation, which in many respects detracted from the grace you'd expect from a figure of his professional stature.
  
  A significant disappointment was the way the male lead's integrity seemed to be compromised by his preoccupation with personal gossip, most notably concerning the female lead's marital status and family conversations. Rather than embodying the confident and professional demeanor one would associate with a medical director, his onscreen presence was relegated to that of an overzealous suitor, more akin to a security guard or service attendant than a respected physician.
  
  The dynamic of having the male lead's parents entreat the female lead added an extra layer of discomfort. His intrusive behavior and lack of dignity were sharply at odds with his esteemed position within the hospital's hierarchy.
  
  As for the acting, it fell short, particularly on the male lead's part, whose emotional expressions were inadequate and at times, cringe-worthy. One rare moment provided a glimpse into what could have been, with his genial smile during a scene set on a trip to Tibet. Yet, such instances were few and far between. The portrayal of the female lead was similarly bewildering, making it difficult to discern her emotional responses.
  
  For those who desire a richer understanding of lesser-known medical phenomena, this series recommends itself; however, the characterization leaves much to be desired. It seems that in the effort to weave a compelling narrative, the authenticity and decorum one might anticipate from seasoned medical professionals were traded for melodrama and improbable scenarios.

• crazyyang34

  Overall 8.5

  Story 8,  Acting 9,  Music 7.5,  Rewatch Value 7

  This review may contain spoilers
  The series in question unfolds at a leisurely pace, delving into the complex lives of its medical protagonists while gradually fanning the flames of their romantic entanglements. Those seeking immediate romantic gratification might find themselves a tad impatient, as the narrative takes its time to reward viewers with those eagerly anticipated moments of passion. My personal adoration, however, lies with a lesser-highlighted duo whose charming chemistry and endearing interactions often steal the show.
  
  Surrounding the central story is a veritable...

  storm of dramatic incidents - indeed, one might argue that the scales tilt more towards intense emotional conflicts than towards heartwarming encounters of love. A note of caution for those sensitive to controversial storylines: the plot does not shy away from themes of infidelity, though rest assured, our main characters remain untangled from such affairs.
  
  For those willing to invest the time, this series promises a rich narrative weave, albeit revealing itself in smaller, digestible portions—ideal for consuming a pair of episodes at a time as they release. Currently available for streaming on IQIYI, I would encourage giving this show a chance, especially if you possess the endurance for a long, yet ultimately rewarding, narrative journey.

• boldchoi78

  Overall 8

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

  Attention, all those yearning for love-laden tales: you may want to temper your expectations. What unfurls before you is a tapestry woven with medical threads, pulsing with an emotional heartbeat, though at times it may seem frayed by its own narrative structure.
  
  The story, brimming with powerful sentiments and brought alive by a constellation of stellar performers, is indeed breathtaking — they sculpt the series into nothing short of a masterpiece. Its narrative is beautifully crafted; however, it does occasionally succumb to a monotonous rhythm. A...

  redundancy of surgical vignettes, the relentless jockeying for position among ambitious surgeons, and the personal upheavals they face—while intended to inspire—sometimes languish in tedium. There are instances where attempts to elevate the dramatic intensity feel mistimed and contrived, failing to resonate as intended. A subplot involving a groundbreaking artificial heart promised intrigue but sadly fluttered weakly in the wings, never taking center-stage.
  
  The ensemble, nonetheless, is a powerhouse of performance, with each member delivering with remarkable authenticity. They carry the narrative, infusing purpose into each twist and turn—save for the rare few who perhaps seem shoehorned into the tableau.
  
  The audio landscape of the series is enveloping and tranquil, with opening and closing scores that are a salve to the soul. These harmonious selections have certainly earned their place in my repertoire of auditory delights.
  
  For those contemplating a revisit to the halls of this emotionally charged medical drama, I affirm your instinct. As one enamored by the sciences, I find myself drawn back to these corridors of medical intrigue and personal struggle.
  
  If your heart desires a tale steeped in romance, I must caution you: this journey is a subdued one, dancing on the edges of romantic entanglement. At its core, it is a study of a resolute female cardiac surgeon navigating a stream dominated by her male counterparts. Should you venture into its depth, it is unlikely you will emerge with regret.
  
  In essence, for those open to trying, this medical series, with its subdued romantic notes and testimonial to professional resilience, is worth the time investment.