Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• oldhelen

  Overall 7

  Story 7,  Acting 8,  Music 8.5,  Rewatch Value 5

  Once upon a time, there was a drama that held so much promise. Its story had a refreshing and exceptional quality, unlike anything seen before in C-dramas. The opening sequence was a sight to behold, captivating the audience from the very first moment. And oh, the OST! It was so enchanting that not a single episode went by without immersing oneself in its melodic allure.
  
  One aspect that stood out was the filming on location. The authenticity it brought to the series was commendable, and...

  the actors' use of their own voices added an extra layer of realism. It was a pleasant surprise to witness such dedication, for it seemed that every other C-drama opted for CGI-laden studios, replicating forests that lacked genuine charm.
  
  However, for all its potential and anticipation, the plot stumbled its way through a confusing labyrinth. There were times when understanding the events unfolding on screen became an arduous task, leaving many viewers, including myself, bewildered and scratching our heads. Perhaps it was my own shortcomings, but a significant portion of the show remained a puzzle that never quite fit together.
  
  Furthermore, the chemistry between the main leads left much to be desired. Their romance felt lackluster and failed to ignite any sparks. It was a great disappointment, as the hope for a deep emotional connection between them slowly faded away.
  
  Despite its originality and the initial excitement it generated, this drama tragically failed to live up to its full potential. It became a forgettable tale, lost among the vast sea of other shows. Although it must be acknowledged that effort was made, there was a lingering sense that it could have been so much more.

• YoungWalrus

  Overall 10

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

  Hey there, fellow drama lovers! So, I recently stumbled upon this gem of a cdrama and let me tell you, it was a pleasant surprise! Now, I didn't have high expectations, considering its lower budget and "lightweight" fantasy vibes, but boy was I wrong.
  
  The story starts off with a dramatic opening, where one of the lead characters almost bites the dust in a car accident. But fear not, blood transfusion saves the day and brings our characters closer together. The chemistry between them is off...

  the charts, like fire and ice, making it an absolute delight to watch.
  
  Now, I have to admit, the plot takes a bit of time to kick in. But if you hang on until around the second or third episode, things start to get really interesting. The mysteries that unravel will keep you hooked, trust me. And hey, if you're a fan of breathtaking cinematography, this drama has got it all. The scenic shots are absolutely stunning, showcasing the beauty of nature and the impressive sets.
  
  What also caught my attention were the fabulous cheongsams our leading lady wears. It's not just about the looks though, the story is where this cdrama truly shines. The supporting characters have their fair share of secrets and surprises, making you constantly wonder who's coming back and who's really gone for good.
  
  Now, I won't spoil everything, but let me just say that the identity revelations and unexpected twists had me at the edge of my seat. This drama kept me guessing until the very end, and I have to give kudos to the writer and director for keeping me on my toes. It's not often that a drama surprises me like that.
  
  Of course, I can't forget to mention the adorable main couple. Their chemistry is so sweet and heartwarming. I honestly could have used more episodes of them just doing everyday activities together. They're that cute!
  
  Lastly, let me mention the director, who did an amazing job in a particular episode turning the whole thing into a horror show. It was mind-blowing and definitely left me wanting more. I hope to see them take on a full-blown horror series in the future.
  
  Overall, Rattan is a cdrama that starts off slow but packs a serious punch at the end. It's not your typical fantasy drama with a rushed ending. Nope, this one takes its time and delivers an unforgettable finale. Oh, and make sure to check out the extra episode with an alternate ending. It's definitely worth a watch. *Thumbs up*

• jollypinocchio79

  Overall 9

  Story 9,  Acting 9.5,  Music 9.5,  Rewatch Value 8.5

  This TV series is absolutely mind-blowing! It's like nothing I've ever seen before. The storyline is tight, there are no plot holes to be found. And the cinematography and CGI are simply mesmerizing. The acting is top-notch, and everything is executed almost perfectly. Plus, the soundtracks and OSTs are spot-on. From start to finish, "Rattan" had me hooked and smiling.
  
  The plot revolves around Si Teng, an alien from the Yi Tribe, and Qin Fang, who reluctantly helps her but ends up falling for her. The...

  mystery and romance genres blend seamlessly together, which is a major strength of the show. It's mainly focused on Si Teng's journey and her story is captivating. The unexpected twists and surprises kept me on the edge of my seat. This drama is refreshingly unpredictable, avoiding all the typical cliches and overused tropes.
  
  Let's talk about the characters. Si Teng is one of the best female leads I've encountered. She's strong, intelligent, elegant, and stunning, yet she still maintains her integrity and kindness. And despite her badass nature, she has these adorable moments that never fail to make me smile. Qin Fang is such a sweetheart, always willing to go the extra mile to help Si Teng. They make the perfect pair. And I have to mention Yan Fu Rui, who steals the show at times. Not only does he add comedy to the mix, but he's also super cute and adds another layer to the mystery and romance genres.
  
  The cinematography in "Rattan" is breathtaking. The scenic locations and gorgeous greenery create visual feasts for the eyes. And the costumes are absolutely stunning, adding to the overall beauty of the series. The OSTs are perfectly timed and enhance the scenes they accompany.
  
  I must also give a shoutout to the child actress who played Si Teng. She was absolutely perfect for the role. And while the ending might not please everyone, I thought it was the most fitting and satisfying conclusion. Lastly, I have to mention Wafang, who didn't get much screen time after the first few episodes but was undeniably adorable.
  
  Overall, I loved "Rattan." It remained consistently good from beginning to end, and I can't praise it enough.

• SourYoon

  Overall 9

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

  Once upon a time, there was a captivating drama that can only be described in one word: beautiful. From start to finish, everything about it exuded a sense of aesthetic wonder.
  
  Let's start with the characters. Finally, I found a female lead that I truly admired. Si Teng was a queen in every sense of the word, and I couldn't help but fall in love with her. She possessed a rare combination of strength, intelligence, and confidence, while also harboring a kind and vulnerable side. What...

  truly set her apart was that she didn't tolerate any nonsense from anyone.
  
  The male lead, on the other hand, defied expectations. I expected him to struggle or be intimidated by Si Teng when she made him her servant, but he surprised me. He was genuinely kind and obedient, yet he wasn't afraid to confront Si Teng when he disagreed with her. Slowly, he managed to win her over, and it was evident that he had fallen deeply in love with her. Their connection was palpable, showing just how vital Si Teng was to him, and vice versa. It wasn't just about her protecting him; they protected each other. Their emotions and expressions were a joy to witness.
  
  Another standout character was Yan Fuiru. Initially, I didn't think much of him, but he turned out to be an incredibly loyal and funny friend. Even Bai Ying, who I disliked at first, managed to win me over by the end. The acting from the entire cast was outstanding.
  
  The story itself was incredibly intriguing. It was a web of mysteries, each one adding another layer of intrigue. The show never revealed too much, preferring to keep the audience guessing until the halfway point. At times, I did feel a little lost, but that only fueled my curiosity even more. Just when I started to wonder what was truly happening, I found myself completely engrossed in the story once again. The drama struck a perfect balance between funny moments and deeply emotional ones, particularly as the plot developed.
  
  The aesthetics of the show were yet another strength. The filming locations and cinematography were breathtaking. The scenery, with its rural, old-world charm, coupled with historical buildings and forests, created a captivating backdrop for the story. Si Teng's outfits were simply gorgeous, contrasting beautifully with the male lead's modern attire. The inclusion of fantasy elements, reminiscent of cultivation dramas, added an enchanting touch. The drama had a timeless quality, with its blending of modern and historical elements. It felt like watching a seamless fusion of a period piece and a contemporary drama. And let's not forget the stunning OST, particularly the mesmerizing "Falling Star" by Mian Zi, which perfectly captured the show's emotional essence. Even the opening of the drama was a sight to behold.
  
  In conclusion, this drama offered a compelling and mysterious story, filled with unpredictable twists. Its aesthetics were undeniably pleasing, enhanced by the captivating dynamics between the male and female leads. Si Teng was a strong and confident female lead who felt refreshingly authentic, while the male lead was unique and kind. Their love story was truly beautiful, and I found myself pleasantly surprised by the unfolding narrative. It might not be for everyone, but if given a chance, it's a drama worth experiencing. So go ahead, take a leap and give it a try. You won't be disappointed.

• FastGiraffe

  Overall 9

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

  In this TV series review, "Rattan" breaks away from typical c-drama cliches and introduces a new genre of science fiction/fantasy with unique character dynamics. The strong female lead drives the plot, while the male lead takes more of a side character role. The drama also incorporates elements of mystery, with over half of the episodes centered around discovering the female lead's identity and motives. As the audience uncovers the truth, the second half of the drama picks up pace, leading to a faster-paced plot as...

  the female lead pursues her goal and navigates obstacles. Alongside the mystery plot, viewers can also enjoy the beautiful scenery, stunning wardrobe, and a slow-burn romance. The acting and production are commendable, with the main actors delivering natural performances and demonstrating great chemistry. Despite some confusion in the plot and unanswered questions, "Rattan" has gained popularity and favorable reviews, with an alternate ending to satisfy those who prefer a more positive outcome. Overall, this TV series is worth a watch for its fresh plot, distinct setting, and compelling characters.