Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• silentmeerkat

  Overall 8.5

  Story 8.5,  Acting 7.5,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 8

  A Missed Opportunity
  
  This drama series had the potential to captivate with its layers of political intrigue, courtly disputes, and a winding narrative rife with neighborly tensions and identity exchanges. Indeed, the premise and varied cast of characters lend themselves to a fascinating exploration of power and romance. One might find threads of engagement in the tapestry of personalities and plots, if not for the one weak strand that threatens to unravel the whole.
  
  Regrettably, much of the dissatisfaction can be attributed to a lackluster performance from...

  one of the principal actors tasked with bringing a central character to life. His performance is marked by a stilted mechanistic aura—akin to a stiff automaton traversing the intricate emotional landscape of a period drama. Despite the necessity for dynamism and nuance, his portrayal is unconvincing, emotionless, and jarringly out of step with the narrative's demands.
  
  In stark contrast, other members of the ensemble inject vitality and depth into their roles, particularly the actress embodying a female character marked by her resilience and complexity. She, alongside her fellow cast members, manages to elevate the narrative, creating moments of genuine connection and pathos.
  
  Of notable charm are the romance plots unfolding on the sidelines, particularly one involving a spirited princess and her mild-mannered suitor. Their chemistry provides a delightful respite, showcasing a lighter, more whimsical facet of the series. Another couple brings a dose of heartbreaking gravity to the table, depicting a love story tinged with the tragedy of circumstance and loyalty.
  
  Yet, not all romantic storylines are as well-received. One character, in particular, seems to diminish the viewers' engagement, with some deeming her scenes a convenient interval for personal intermissions.
  
  At its essence, this series is something to perhaps fill the gaps between waiting for new episodes of more gripping shows. While it doesn't descend into the abyss of the unwatchable, nor does it ascend to the heights of must-see television. It occupies a middle ground—an option for those with time to spare and a generous capacity for overlooking flawed performances.

• loudzhao

  Overall 7

  Story 7.5,  Acting 6.5,  Music 7.5,  Rewatch Value 6

  The below review might reveal key plot points
  A timeless ballad of love serenades through the screen in this touching, albeit formulaic romance saga where the power of an enduring affection triumphs over the odds. The beloved duo is confronted by a tragic past - with the female lead, played by the talented Chen Yuqi, at the crux of a familial vendetta that condemns her mother for the death of her counterpart's, portrayed by Yu Menglong. In a gallant effort to shield his childhood sweetheart...

  from his vengeful relative, he stands as her protector, fashioning her as his aide in an intricately woven double life.
  
  Yet their bond is tested when protection becomes impossible, leading to an elaborate ruse involving a double, a new identity, and an amnesia-inducing potion to sever their shared recollection. Relaunched as a novice law-woman in disguise and free from her earlier engagement to a highborn gentleman, our heroine embarks on an inspirational journey of self-discovery and forging a purposeful life.
  
  Hovering over her anew, our male lead reincarnates as a county official, joining her in unraveling crimes that brush against a grand conspiracy echoing through the empire's echelons. While the narrative exudes levity and charm, a melancholic thread weaves through, marked by the male lead's concealed ailment and subdued affection. Despite her amnesia, she is drawn towards him, rediscovering love in a poignant twist of fate. His silent wish is to ensure her happiness with a more suitable, healthier match, but the heart's yearnings are not so easily quelled.
  
  The character dynamics stand out, notably with a princess whose loyalty and personal romance add a delightful layer to the story. With his ‘plank-like’ demeanor, Yu Menglong's performance strikes a chord with viewers; while his portrayal, intended to evoke a suffering stoicism, instead sparked quips about his woodenness, there were gem moments that showcased emotional depth. Meanwhile, Chen Yuqi glows as a determined, intelligent woman who captures the audience with her radiant charm and comical grace.
  
  The secondary male, though well-acted and engaging, pales in comparison to our leading man, as one simply cannot root for a rival so meticulously preened. The narrative might not break new ground, and though observant viewers may easily sift the villains from the innocents, the vibrant tapestry of characters ensures the journey is worthwhile.
  
  As the story draws to a close, it neatly ties up the weave, leaving viewers with a gratifying resolution rather than an emotional tumult. If the tale had seen a stronger arc in Yu Menglong's final acts, it surely would have ascended further in acclaim.

• gianthe99

  Overall 7

  Story 6,  Acting 8,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 2

  Upon first glance, the promotional art for this series piqued my interest—the aesthetic promised a certain allure. With a mixture of anticipation and curiosity, I ventured into this television journey, albeit with a preconceived notion of uncovering a sweeping romantic narrative set against the backdrop of picturesque settings. However, expectations can be a double-edged sword.
  
  To my mild disappointment and surprise, romance took a backseat in this saga. From the onset, the show pulses with a vibrant energy that hints at excellence. It is far from...

  saccharine; the plot weaves through a tapestry rich with adrenaline. Action sequences and taut battles are its heart, complemented by a seasoning of complex relationships and misunderstandings that spiral into vendettas. As the narrative developed, it became clear—the romance was merely a subtle undertone to a more prominent mystery that unfolded like a game of whodunit.
  
  The chemistry between characters fizzled rather than sizzled, with moments intended to be deeply passionate feeling more wooden than warm. As for the storyline, it felt like navigating through a fog—elusive and indefinable. Fortunately, the series did manage to stick the landing adequately, if not remarkably.
  
  For those in pursuit of an ebullient period piece that offers enigmas waiting to be unraveled, peppered with a faint whisper of love, this could be your cup of tea. But for those yearning for a romance-drenched historical epic that stirs the soul with its relational dynamics, you might wish to cast your gaze elsewhere in the vast ocean of content.

• wildemma

  Overall 8

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

  Diving into the sea of opinions surrounding the performance of the actor portraying Alan, I anticipate that my viewpoint might ruffle some feathers. However, in my humble opinion, Alan's portrayal was executed with commendable skill. Indeed, the actor embodying Jing Ci displayed an almost statuesque poise in his gait, a detail that caught my attention. Given that Jing Ci's storyline involves overcoming a significant physical setback, his deliberate movements make sense strategically, as he seeks to conceal his vulnerability from antagonistic forces.
  
  In the realm of...

  emotive expression, Jing Ci's demeanor offers tender moments of warmth and congeniality, although these instances are deliberately reserved for those in his inner circle whom he trusts. This restraint speaks to his complex upbringing and survival tactics; he is a character, after all, who need not cloak himself in false cheerfulness. Perhaps the camera tends to linger too long on his stoic facade, tipping the balance toward overrepresentation.
  
  One element that fell short for me, however, was the penultimate interaction involving Mu BeiYan—a moment that felt somewhat disconcerting in its execution, as if the character stepped out of his established persona.
  
  In terms of the main female lead, YuQi, her performance seemed to echo a previous role from another series which may jar viewers looking for novelty. Nonetheless, her interpretation of twin characters within this narrative is praiseworthy, as she skillfully differentiates each sister, earning my respect.
  
  Moving onto the romantic thread—a core element purportedly driving the narrative—it disappointingly lacks the necessary spark. This results in an ending that leaves something to be desired.
  
  On a brighter note, the supporting cast contributed solidly to the series, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
  
  Contemplating the broader themes of the drama, such as the prescriptive nature of romance according to male decree, we tread on familiar, historical ground; the classic lens through which the show was created is heavily tinted with antiquated notions of gender roles, a concept I'll leave for viewers to dissect on their own terms.

• ToughBraveheart48

  Overall 10

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

  It's indeed a rare delight when a series transcends mere entertainment, elevating itself to the pinnacle of dramatic storytelling. The exhilarating narrative seamlessly weaves through the tapestry of emotions, engaging viewers with its potency and depth. The ensemble cast shines extraordinarily, each member delivering performances that reverberate with authenticity and excellence. Within this lustrous array of talent, a particular actor stands out, capturing the audience's imagination with a compellingly intricate and heartfelt portrayal of his role.
  
  The nuanced rendering of the characters is nothing short of...

  breathtaking, with naturalistic performances that pull at the heartstrings, invoking tears, eliciting empathy, and ultimately carving a pathway to the viewer's capacity for joy. The presence of a gifted actress adds a shimmering layer of grace and authenticity, her embodiment of her character striking evocative chords with effortless skill.
  
  There's a magnetic allure between these two leads, a chemistry so palpable that it spills out beyond the confines of fiction, igniting the screen with the vibrant energy of what appears to be genuine affection and companionship. Their on-screen partnership is a splendid dance of emotions that echoes profoundly with the audience, leaving a lingering impact long after the credits roll. One can only yearn for future collaborations between these two actors, their synergetic magic proving to be an irresistible pull for viewers across the globe, enchanting and capturing hearts universally.
  
  I extend an unreserved endorsement of this series, stoutly suggesting immersion in its episodic journey time and time again. It resonates with clarity and accessibility in its story, cocooning the viewer in a world that's rich, engaging, and thoughtfully crafted. Equally commendable is the sublime soundtrack, so captivating that it warrants a place in personal playlists, an accolade to the series' pervasive influence. This drama is, in every aspect, profoundly commendable — a triumph of the heart and screen.