Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• DarkWill

  Overall 2

  Story 2,  Acting 5,  Music 3,  Rewatch Value 1

  This review delves into the complexities of a TV series that explores a controversial romantic relationship. The writer candidly expresses their personal opinions and emotions regarding the series, highlighting both positive and negative aspects. While they acknowledge their initial enjoyment of the show's genre elements and character dynamics, they express strong disagreement with the central romantic storyline. The reviewer finds the power imbalance between the characters disturbing and compares it to a parent-child relationship. They perceive the show as an outlet for the writer's personal...

  grievances, driven by spite and a desire to cause emotional pain. Despite their criticisms, the reviewer appreciates certain characters, particularly one who breaks gender norms. Ultimately, they view the series as a learning experience and express hope for the future improvement of the genre.

• SleepyKeira73

  Overall 10

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

  Note: The following review may contain spoilers.
  
  The acting in this costume drama is truly remarkable! The lead actress delivers an exceptional performance that makes this series a complete standout. Among all the captivating actors, she truly shines and deserves recognition for her talent. The storyline revolves around a complex relationship between a young woman and her mentor. Their bond as master and disciple is severely tested when circumstances take a dark turn. This element of the series truly showcases the lead actress's skills and...

  solidifies her reputation as one of the finest in this genre. Instead of divulging too much about the plot, I'll let the rave reviews from others speak volumes. If you're in search of an engrossing drama, this series is definitely worth watching.

• quickyoo

  Overall 7.5

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

  I was drawn to this particular drama due to its focus on cultivation, a theme I am personally fond of. As a result, my opinion of it may be somewhat biased. However, overall, the story was satisfying. I appreciate the character development of the female lead as well as the other individuals in the show; they all underwent growth and were not just static figures. Their transformations felt true to human nature.
  That said, there was one aspect of the drama that I found quite...

  distressing. It seemed that nearly everyone conspired to harm the female lead, and for rather foolish reasons. This constant onslaught of antagonism was not only aggravating but also diminished the sympathy I felt for her. It became increasingly difficult to endure these moments throughout the series.

• tinywill8

  Overall 8

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

  Saved by the captivating antagonist in haute couture. This drama, despite its numerous flaws, manages to captivate viewers and earn higher ratings than it deserves. An orphan with a curse, Hua Qiangu, attracts demons but is saved by the powerful and reluctant immortal, Bai Zihua, who becomes her master. Though they fall in love, their relationship faces obstacles, including Hua Qiangu being destined to bring about calamity, and Bai Zihua's duty to suppress the demon goddess within her. As factions of the Demon Sect seek...

  to obtain magical artifacts, Hua Qiangu embarks on a quest to recover them, even at great cost. A mysterious antagonist adds an unexpected twist to the plot.
  
  While the chemistry between Qiangu and Zihua could have been stronger if the latter had not been so cold and aloof, the secondary leads steal the show. Andy Zhang delivers a convincing performance as Dong Fang, but it is Kyle Ma's portrayal of Sha Qian Mo that truly impresses. Ma embodies both the fearsome Demon Lord and the tender protector of Hua Qiangu, displaying impressive range. It is this character that saves the drama, with his fashion-forward style, sarcastic beauty advice, and sage warnings about loving someone so callous. Ma's performance leaves a lasting impression, and I hope to see more of him in future roles.
  
  The overall story-line is intriguing and maintains a good pace, although it becomes slightly confusing towards the end, with a rushed and abrupt conclusion. It feels as though the show ran out of time, wasting precious moments on an irritating CGI character. The directors and scriptwriters missed the mark here, as this fantasy drama had the potential to be so much better. However, despite its rushed ending, the chemistry between the two leads in the finale is satisfying. Overall, the series remains enjoyable and worth watching.

• GentleShin

  Overall 5

  Story 3,  Acting 6,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 1

  Spoiler Alert: This review contains spoilers for a TV series.
  
  In December of [year], I watched a TV series and shared my opinion on YouTube. While many people enjoyed it, I found myself in the minority. I believe the story would have been more compelling if they had incorporated more of the book's content following the main character's death and subsequent resurrection. The protagonist endured significant pain and suffering, and it would have been beneficial to explore that further.
  
  One issue I had with the series...

  was the lack of chemistry between the two main characters. The heavy makeup used on the male lead to make him look older created a noticeable disconnect. Throughout the entire series, he remained emotionally distant, resembling an iceberg. In an interview, the actor mentioned the challenge of portraying a romantic relationship with his co-star due to their significant age difference. Unfortunately, this dynamic translated onto the screen, adding to the coldness and lack of character development.
  
  The writers missed an opportunity by not exploring the concept that "love and duty can co-exist," a crucial line from the book. It would have been enlightening to have another character explain this to the male lead during a monologue. By opening his heart and allowing himself to love, he could have overcome his celibacy struggles and realized the true purpose of the "fated calamity" they faced. Perhaps the intended outcome was not death and destruction, but rather a lesson in love. This realization could have saved everyone, as demonstrated by other characters in the series.
  
  The most compelling character, in my opinion, was the Holy Ruler, who acted as a sibling figure to the female lead. The actor delivered a remarkable performance, showcasing exceptional character development and depth. I would have preferred to see the female lead end up with him, even if it was purely platonic love. Throughout the series, the Holy Ruler consistently demonstrated unwavering dedication and protection for the female lead, going as far as assisting in her resurrection. Amidst a sea of men vying for her affection, the Holy Ruler was the only one who truly succeeded in safeguarding her, always acting with sincerity.
  
  The biggest issue I had with the series was the abruptness and lack of explanation surrounding the female lead's resurrection. It felt rushed, as if the creators were hurrying to conclude the series without providing a satisfying resolution. There was ample material from the book that could have been utilized to provide a more fulfilling and happy ending for the main character.
  
  In summary, while the TV series had its strengths, such as the phenomenal performance by the Holy Ruler character, it fell short in terms of character development, chemistry between the leads, and a rushed ending that left several loose ends untied. I can't help but wish the creators had taken more inspiration from the book to provide a more cohesive and poignant conclusion. These are solely my personal thoughts on the matter.