Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• jollypenélope

  Overall 10

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

  I remember stumbling upon this timeless gem as one of my early forays into the realm of dramas. Nostalgia washes over me as I recall my childhood days when my mom would bring home those cherished box sets, each episode dubbed meticulously into Vietnamese. The show's themesong continues to echo in my mind, sung in both Cantonese and Vietnamese, evoking a sense of familiarity and comfort.
  
  While the plotline may seem akin to other stories within the same universe, what truly sets this adaptation apart is...

  its stellar cast and performances. It was a gathering of TVB's finest talents during that era, with each actor, whether in a leading role or a fleeting appearance, leaving a lasting impression. The on-screen chemistry between the main characters is portrayed with such finesse and authenticity, drawing viewers deeper into the intricacies of their relationships.
  
  Yes, the visual quality may not meet today's high-definition standards, and the CGI effects may appear dated, but these aspects do little to detract from the overall excellence of this rendition. The real standout here is the breathtaking martial arts sequences that are flawlessly executed. It is evident that many of the actors of yesteryears, especially those from the golden age of Hong Kong dramas, possessed a mastery of martial arts, adding a layer of realism and excitement to the fight scenes.
  
  Even now, amidst the plethora of entertainment options available at our fingertips, this series remains a personal favorite of mine. While I yearn for easy online access to indulge in rewatching, I find solace in revisiting the cherished episodes on DVD, each viewing akin to rediscovering a hidden treasure trove of memories.

• fastxu

  Overall 9.5

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

  This review has been a long time coming. It's important to note that my assessment is solely based on personal experience. Despite lacking knowledge of Chinese literature and culture, my introduction to the wuxia realm began in the early 's. Back in my primary school years, my father acquired a VHS player, a luxury item at the time. He started renting numerous wuxia series from our local video rental store, which we referred to as kung fu dramas. Despite not being of Chinese descent, Chinese...

  movies and TV series, particularly wuxia, were already popular in my country. From that point on, I was completely captivated by this genre. I indulged in so many wuxia series that most of them have faded from my memory. However, I lost touch with wuxia during my middle school years, only returning to it about or years ago. This lengthy hiatus spanned over years before my nostalgia for wuxia series resurfaced, fueled by the accessibility of platforms like YouTube and various streaming services. And among the plethora of options, my mind immediately gravitated towards a particular wuxia series that left a lasting impression - one of the few that remained etched in my mind.
  
  The version of this series that I discovered all those years ago still resonates with me today. It's iconic in every sense, from the stellar cast to the engrossing storyline and unforgettable music. Perhaps one of the standout elements that has kept this series entrenched in my memory for so long is the exceptional casting. The actors who portrayed the main and supporting roles delivered remarkable performances. Barbara Yung's portrayal of Huang Rong, in particular, stands out as impeccable. While I haven't delved into the original material, Yung's depiction of Huang Rong exudes a delightful blend of characteristics and emotions. She effortlessly transitions from ruthless and fierce to whimsical and generous, captivating the audience with every scene. Yung's portrayal remains a benchmark for this role, setting a high standard for future adaptations.
  
  Likewise, Felix Wong's portrayal of Guo Jing continues to hold a special place in my heart. His interpretation of the character as innocent and naive, yet endearing and humorous, is a testament to his acting prowess. The chemistry between Wong, Yung, and the rest of the cast is one of the driving forces that keeps drawing me back to this series. The performances by Michael Miu and Sharon Yeung also contribute significantly to the emotional depth of the narrative, as evidenced by their poignant scene together. And then there's Hong Qigong, a character akin to Gandalf in my eyes - wise, serene, and blessed with a sharp wit. Lau Dan's portrayal of this character remains a standout even today, solidifying his place as one of my all-time favorite characters.
  
  The kung fu choreography in this series is nothing short of mesmerizing. Despite the actors not being martial artists, their dedication to mastering the intricate fight sequences is evident in each fluid movement. The storytelling, though perhaps deviating from the original novel in some aspects, remains engaging and multifaceted. The subplots add layers to the main narrative, enriching the overall viewing experience. Additionally, the music accompanying the series is nothing short of iconic. Its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions and remain etched in one's memory for years speaks volumes about its quality.
  
  While the production values may show signs of aging, particularly in terms of the sets and locations, these minor flaws are easily forgiven given the time period in which the series was filmed. Overall, this series has set the bar high for what a stellar wuxia production should embody - a captivating storyline, outstanding performances, stunning choreography, and a memorable score. It continues to hold the title of my favorite wuxia series to date.

• calmlemur89

  Overall 9.5

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

  Once upon a time, in the nostalgia of my youth, I stumbled upon a thrilling drama that left an indelible mark on my memory. While the specifics may have faded with time, the essence of its greatness still shines brightly in my recollection. Let me tell you, dear reader, that the level of excellence displayed in this series is unparalleled. In the realm of fighting and action dramas, it reigns supreme, casting a shadow so grand that modern counterparts pale in comparison.
  
  From the impeccable performances...

  of the cast to the soul-stirring melodies of the soundtrack, every element of this drama weaves together seamlessly to create a tapestry of perfection. It has captured the hearts of not just myself, but my entire family, who stand united in their admiration for its brilliance. There is a distinct charm in action dramas, particularly those tinged with supernatural elements, and this series excelled in delivering a gripping narrative that kept me on the edge of my seat.
  
  Despite my fervent desire to revisit this masterpiece, time proves to be a formidable adversary, with a plethora of new dramas vying for attention. The advances in camera technology also serve as a reminder of the passage of time, subtly nudging me away from a rewatch. However, if ever granted the luxury of abundant hours in a day, I would not hesitate to dive back into the captivating world of this drama.
  
  As fate would have it, a modern interpretation of this classic tale emerged this year, promising a fresh take on beloved characters and storylines. While I embarked on this new journey with optimism, I found myself yearning for the unparalleled magic of the original. The updated version, titled "Legend of the Condor Heroes," while commendable in its own right, failed to capture the essence that made its predecessor a timeless gem.
  
  For those seeking an exceptional action drama that transcends the bounds of time, I wholeheartedly recommend immersing yourself in the world of this series. It stands as a testament to the artistry and storytelling prowess that sets it apart as a true classic.

• SleepyIdris59

  Overall 9.5

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

  A television series that aired years ago continues to captivate audiences with its timeless appeal. While the series deviates from its source material, the addition of extra scenes adds depth to the narrative. The stellar cast, engaging music, and outstanding performances have solidified the series as a classic. Barbara Yung's portrayal of Wong Yung remains unparalleled, showcasing her immense talent that lives on even after her untimely passing. Michael Miu's portrayal of Yeung Hong is unforgettable, leaving a lasting impact that no other actor has...

  been able to replicate. Felix Wong's portrayal of Kwok Jing is executed flawlessly, while Sharon Yeung shines as Muk Nim-chi. The strong chemistry among the four leads elevates the series to greatness. Despite the absence of special effects and stunning visuals, the series relies on its exceptional acting and compelling storytelling to enthrall viewers. Watching this series since childhood, it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many fans, with remakes failing to capture its unique magic.

• fastseo92

  Overall 8.5

  Story 8,  Acting 9,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 7.5

  Some may argue that critiquing the outdated nature of a classic series is futile, a sentiment I choose not to belabor here. Instead, let's pivot to a timeless truth: the power of exceptional acting and writing. Venturing into this series long after its initial broadcast, devoid of any tint of nostalgia, I was pleasantly surprised by its enduring charm. The performances remain captivating, the dialogue poignant. While some deviations from the original material were inevitable, the essence of the characters remained faithfully preserved.
  
  Within the realm...

  of Jin Yong's literary universe, distinct from Gu Long's, the focus transcends individual psyches to delve into the intricate tapestry of society and human relationships. A quintessential hallmark of any Jin Yong adaptation lies in the ensemble cast and their collective chemistry, aspects the discerning director acknowledged and harnessed to full advantage. While luminaries like Felix Wong and Barbara Yung shone brightly, the supporting cast effortlessly held their own even in their absence.
  
  Amidst a tapestry of memorable performances, one portrayal that truly resonated with me was Kenneth Tsang's portrayal of Wong Yeuk Si. A veritable maestro of wuxia, Tsang's portrayal breathed life into a profound father-daughter dynamic. In a visceral yet wordless exchange, Tsang's character unleashes a cathartic moment, smashing the confines of conventionality with a freedom only shared laughter can encapsulate. Such instances of visual storytelling, sans exposition, pepper the series, illuminating the richness of character dynamics.
  
  Eschewing reliance on ornate costumes and CGI extravaganzas, this series opts for a narrative rooted in character and plot progression. The fight sequences, though brief, crackle with intensity, none more so than the enthralling Kwok Jing vs. Yeung Hong duel. This departure from the protracted wirefu spectacles of contemporary productions serves as a breath of fresh air, underscoring the series' commitment to substance over style.