Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• fluffyspaceballs73

  Overall 7

  Story 6,  Acting 8,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 5.5

  Be advised, this critique might unveil pivotal details
  Let me lay my cards on the table: those advocating that a certain popular East Asian series represents the pinnacle of edge-of-your-seat, enigmatic criminal pursuits are, frankly, not entirely on the mark. As an aficionado who has consumed a plethora of crime and mystery narratives, it became apparent that this show's plotline was devoid of genuine surprises. Our so-called intellectual heavyweight protagonist, Simon, to be blunt, has been aggrandized beyond measure. The so-called brilliant deductions could easily...

  be attributed to a fledgling in the detective trade. More often than not, the "eureka" moments were so glaringly evident that I was steps ahead of our detective protagonist—a disappointment given the show’s portrayal of his cerebral prowess.
  
  Indeed, the finale's grand unveiling of the antagonist felt lackluster. It aimed for a moment of sheer narrative wizardry—"wow, wow super wow"—yet I met it with a mere shrug, having unraveled this supposedly intricate mystery aeons prior.
  
  Let's turn our gaze to the leading lady. She exists, essentially, to be a decorative complement to our main man — a character relegated to the sidelines, whose intelligence and initial potential are squandered, resulting in a regressive portrayal of a helpless stereotype. It's disconcerting, as a female viewer, to witness a promising character reduced to no more than a conventional figure in distress throughout the series, in line with the traditionally male-dominated themes often seen in Asian dramas.
  
  Now, let's dissect the crux of the show's acclaim and high ratings. The secret to its success is not its storytelling, but rather the magnetic appeal of one man: Wallace Huo. Visually striking and bestowed with the kind of acting prowess that transcends the material, Huo captures attention effortlessly. His sublime performances and undeniable charisma are the pillars upon which this series stands. Whether he's articulating profound dialogues or merely moving through a scene, he imbues each moment with an elegance that is simply mesmerizing.
  
  Let's not downplay the show's visual feast — it is certainly brimming with it. However, without Huo giving life to the character of Simon, it would amount to little more than an assemblage of attractive faces and superficial charm. And, despite my qualms, I must concede that a climactic scene — a wrenching performance by Huo that sees Simon in a harrowing emotional bind to thwart his nemesis — sealed the deal and justified the viewing of preceding, somewhat lackluster episodes.
  
  So when one rallies behind the show, singing praises for more than its lead actor's brilliance, take it with a grain of salt. Wallace Huo is the indisputable jewel in its crown. His performance alone elevates the series fundamentally and makes it a memorable experience.

• energeticrobert

  Overall 10

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

  A captivating performance. This was my introduction to the world of dramas led by Wallace Huo, and what an introduction it was! I've come to expect a certain caliber from mystery and crime shows, having been an ardent viewer of western procedurals that have set a benchmark in the genre. Yet, this particular series managed to surprise me with its more harrowing, technologically savvy, and psychologically intense approach, so different from its western counterparts.
  
  Wallace embodies the character of a sharp criminal psychologist with an endearing...

  flair. Balancing the nuances of awkward romance and cool professionalism, he brings a dual nature to his character that is profoundly engaging. His shift into an alternate persona within the storyline showcases his range as an actor. Opposite him, Sandra fits seamlessly into her role – her enchanting appearance betrays a 'girl-next-door' essence that pairs perfectly with Wallace's character. Their dynamic channels a certain vampire-human romance that has captivated audiences before – a cool, collected male protagonist alongside a perceptive yet emotionally open female lead who manages to melt his somewhat icy exterior.
  
  Their on-screen relationship is further sweetened by the male lead's peculiar affection for seafood, a small yet charming detail woven into the plot. The series smartly veils its antagonist, delivering a twist that I admit caught me completely off guard. It's a testament to the storytelling that I remained engrossed and unsure until the reveal.
  
  Visually, the series doesn't shy away from using unique camera techniques like the fish-eye lens, which adds to its aesthetic value. Not to forget 'Andy,' the protagonist's car—a practically sentient addition to the cast, providing both advancements to the plot and comedic moments. The storyline is constructed in such a way that each case is distinct and absorbing, preventing any sense of staleness. Notably, the deep-dives into criminal analysis are gripping and an educative experience in itself, while the overarching narrative ties each individual case back to the central malevolent force.
  
  Every major character is presented with their own history, providing layers of depth to the narrative and making the drama feel full-bodied. While certain sequences push the boundaries of the squeamish, it balances the act by not tipping into the excessively grotesque.
  
  Andrew Yin steals scenes as the ultimate friend, bringing levity to the otherwise intense investigation scenes through his chemistry with Wallace's character. Wang Kai delivers a compelling portrayal as a secondary lead, although the story never quite aligns him as a formidable rival in the love interest stakes, his portrayal as a committed law enforcement officer is praiseworthy.
  
  The first few episodes unravel slowly, which is essential in laying down the foundation of what becomes a swiftly paced story. Instead of drawing out scenes unnecessarily, the series moves with an efficient momentum.
  
  With a score peppered by suspended breaths and intense moments, the music shines—particularly with its refreshing orchestral pieces setting it apart from conventional drama soundtracks.
  
  Would I immerse myself in this series again? Absolutely. It stands tall as my preferred choice amongst Chinese dramas and comes highly recommended for those who find themselves drawn to suspense-filled crime investigations punctuated by an engaging romantic subplot. However, it might not align perfectly with viewers seeking a pure crime mystery experience devoid of romantic elements. Regardless, the series is a stellar demonstration of the genre and has something to offer all sorts of audiences.

• oldyang39

  Overall 9.5

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

  The series in question was an absolute masterpiece—an cerebral escapade that demanded my undivided attention, leaving me enraptured as I pieced together the puzzle of each episode. A clarion call to every aficionado of the crime genre, rest assured, this narrative is a cut above the rest.
  
  Our protagonist, a discerning criminal psychologist with a sharp mind, embarks on a journey through a labyrinth of complex cases alongside his fresh-faced assistant. As they delve into individual mysteries, their dynamic unfolds in the quintessential dance of partnership...

  seen in dramas, yet it manages to defy predictability every step of the way.
  
  Layer upon layer, the story's fabric is woven with a bigger tapestry in mind—a hallmark of the genre, yes, but executed with such finesse that it defies cliché, marking its place as a beacon of originality in the crime drama sphere. The writing is of the highest caliber; the scriptwriters continually upend expectations, leading viewers down one path before abruptly veering into uncharted territory, leaving us agape and ensnared in the best possible way.
  
  Among the thrills and twists, the emotional tapestry is rich, drawing me through a spectrum of feelings alongside the characters. The beauty of a well-crafted mystery is the allure of the unknown, and here, it was laid out in spades. The conclusion had me fixed to my screen, utterly stunned—such a rarity in today’s predictable landscape.
  
  The chemistry between the lead characters was palpable, lending an authenticity to their interactions that was delightful to witness—especially given the protagonist's endearingly stiff nature. There's an undeniable charm in watching an intellectual giant awkwardly navigate the terrain of human affection.
  
  While side characters enriched the narrative, there was a longing for a deeper dive into certain personalities, particularly one enigmatic figure whose every appearance whetted my appetite for more.
  
  What sets this drama apart is its resistance to succumb to the allure of a romance-centered storyline—which often overtakes the essence of similar shows. Instead, the focus remained steadfast on our main character's unique perspective, an exploration of the intricate workings of a criminal analyst that was deeply satisfying.
  
  And while music may seem like a footnote, the ballads, especially the closing theme, struck an unexpected chord with me—a true testament to the series' power to enchant all the senses.
  
  For enthusiasts of detective tales rich with enigma, tenderness, and just a dash of amour, this series promises to captivate and is a seminal addition to the genre's collection.

• CoolGhostbusters

  Overall 5

  Story 4.5,  Acting 8,  Music 1.5,  Rewatch Value 1

  In the spirit of brevity, since I recognize that not everyone enjoys extensive critique of a series that seems to have captivated the majority, allow me to begin. I squarely fall among the minority who weren't spellbound. Approaching this highly acclaimed drama with a blend of skepticism and anticipation, I believed the buzz that heralded it as a small-screen sensation was a harbinger of quality. And yet, my optimism quickly soured.
  
  The series opened with promise: a compelling female protagonist and a male counterpart shrouded in...

  mystery, hinting at depths to be unveiled. The narrative initially gripped my attention – admittedly not ground-breaking but had potential. However, by the mid-season mark, it plummeted dramatically. The writing struck me as desperate in its endeavors to astonish and deviate from the beaten path. The so-called twists proceeded to unfold with the finesse of a daytime soap opera, lacking any genuine shock or awe.
  
  Romantically speaking, the series sought to portray a mature relationship, but it did so with such mundanity that it almost became soporific. There was but a singular instance where sparks seemed to fly between our leads, characters named Jin Yan and Jian Yao. Meanwhile, the deductive prowess of Jin Yan bordered on the fantastical, warranting a foray into science fiction genre. While their investigative antics were not entirely devoid of merit, they oftentimes beggared belief.
  
  While the plot was lackluster, it was the cast of characters that felt particularly underwhelming. I found it challenging to empathize with any of them. Jin Yan, with occasional exceptions, was the epitome of stoicism. His lack of human error was more exasperating than admirable. I yearned to see him falter, be vulnerable – the very crises and triumphs that afford characters a semblance of growth. But frustratingly, that evolution never came.
  
  Jian Yao's journey from a formidable force to a mere sideline ornament left much to be desired. Character attachment is the linchpin of serial storytelling for me, yet these characters failed to hold me. There was one exception: Fu Zi Yu provided a much-needed dose of humanity and cleverness.
  
  I could expound further on why this series didn’t resonate with me or merit the laud its received. However, with all being said, I am known for my particularity, and my solitary stance might be among the outliers. So, I encourage viewers to delve into this drama, despite my misgivings, since there's a high chance that you will find an enjoyable experience waiting for you in its polished production and possibly captivating performances.

• gentlegladiator

  Overall 8

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

  Intrigued by the dichotomy of brilliance and disappointment, I find myself gripped by the conundrum of this television series. Initially, the narrative unfolds with enthralling gusto – we're introduced to a protagonist whose intellect borders on the extraterrestrial. His sagacious demeanor captivates, and one can't help but admire the mind that seems light-years ahead of our own human comprehension.
  
  The love narrative, while endearing in its own right, treads a path well-worn by countless predecessors. A contemporary Romeo with a twist, as it were. Nonetheless, the...

  charm is there, albeit shrouded in predictability. A certain willingness to overlook the minor mishaps in law enforcement procedure – part and parcel of the show's charm – and the occasionally unconvincing delivery from the international cast is required.
  
  The initial episodes are woven with a narrative sophistication that teases the intellect; however, a paradigm shift post the romantic entanglement is where the series splits at the seams. Our enigmatic lead, previously an archetype of anti-social peculiarity, begins to blend with the masses, shedding his unique charisma like a snake discards its skin.
  
  Then enters the concluding arc, marked by its staggering predictability. What once was a tapestry of intricate storytelling now devolves into a morass of stereotypes. The episodes prolong, dragging their feet with the lethargy of a languid dream, only worsening with the anticipation of each foreseeable twist. The once razor-sharp editing and pacing now seem to have dulled against the fabric of the storyline.
  
  While the first half of the series could easily be held aloft as a beacon of originality, the latter half succumbs to the weight of its own formulaic narrative. It is with a heavy heart and a reluctant perseverance that one sits through these concluding chapters. Relief comes only in the final episode, which hints at redemption but not quite enough to resurrect the show’s initial magic.
  
  In this tale of two halves, what might have been a soaring score rightly plummets to a more muted, if average, appreciation. Despite the decline, the series retains a certain pull – a promise of what could have been that makes it worth exploring, if only to witness the spectacle of its rise and fall.