Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• EnergeticEarth

  Overall 10

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

  In the shimmering world of the outrageously affluent, this series effortlessly captivates with its intricate tapestry of narratives that delve far beyond the superficial allure of opulence. It artfully exposes the raw fragility of its characters, enveloping viewers in a narrative rich with complex psyches, marked by unresolved traumas. The sagacity and altruism showcased is counterbalanced by the calculated malevolence simmering beneath polished facades.
  
  Rarely do I find myself compelled to etch my thoughts into words for a review, but this is undeniably an occasion where...

  praise is warranted. It is, without a shadow of a doubt, resoundingly deserving of an A+ accolade. The series is nothing short of phenomenal, leaving an indelible impression through a harmonious blend of exceptional storytelling, stellar performances, and astute direction. It's a complete triumph.
  
  The evolution of the characters is nothing short of a masterclass in character development. Prepare to be riveted as the series continuously keeps you on your toes with jaw-dropping twists and turns. And while I'm dispensing commendations, let's just acknowledge that there is one character, Miriam—without giving too much away—prepare to experience a breadth of emotions where she is concerned.
  
  Trust me, this series isn't just good—it's sublime. Allocate the time, immerse yourself in its grandeur, and perhaps you, too, will understand why it stands as an exemplar of television excellence.

• SharpCamel12

  Overall 9

  Story 9.5,  Acting 9,  Music 7.5,  Rewatch Value 8.5

  Well, what a thrilling journey that was! Initially, the prospect of diving into this particular series didn't exactly set my world on fire. However, considering my fondness for the cast, I adopted a 'why the heck not' attitude and plunged in. Let me tell you, I am swimming in zero regrets. The screenplay was a veritable jigsaw puzzle, intriguingly missing a piece here and there, only to have it cunningly slide into place when least expected. By the fourth episode, every turn of phrase and...

  glance had me second-guessing if we were being fed truth or deceptions. A gentle nudge for those about to embark on this adventure: deception runs rampant.
  
  Characters that initially seemed like mere blips on the narrative horizon ended up being keystones to the intricate storyline. Leaps back to those seemingly trivial early moments became pivotal revelations, sneaking up on us when it mattered most.
  
  Now, regarding the performances – spectacular! Opposition emerged from every shadowed alley of the plot, morphing and multiplying, each new adversary more ambiguous than the last. Trust was the currency of this realm, but it was as counterfeit as a three-dollar bill. Every actor delivered with such gripping fervor, embodying their characters so wholly that you'd find yourself pledging loyalty to one, only to defect to another's camp in the next act. The mistrust was palpable, the air practically thick with it, leaving me to marvel, "Could they all possibly be weaving tales?"
  
  The director's masterful orchestration of the solid script was echoed by a cast sinking their teeth into every single scene. This confluence of narrative and performance artistry created quite the spectacle.
  
  So, to set expectations: if philosophical musings and heart-wrenching transformations are what you seek, this series might not be your cup of tea. But for those craving a rollicking, unpredictable escapade, step right up and prepare for a delightful romp. Rest assured, the entertainment factor was sky-high!

• silentleonardo31

  Overall 5

  Story 5,  Acting 6.5,  Music 6,  Rewatch Value 1.5

  Imagine the sensibilities of a daytime drama infused with a multitude of episodes. This series was heralded as a whodunit, a cerebral challenge; alas, those elements played second fiddle to a cocktail of emotional turmoil, excess, and sequences that wouldn't feel out of place in a glossy music video. Picture it: the enigmatic broodings, our protagonists drowning sorrows, interspersed with fragments of the past—all unfolding at a languorous pace to the strains of the original soundtrack. Eventually, one realizes that narrative cohesion has been sacrificed...

  at the altar of visual allure.
  
  Within the bounds of this show, certain segments seem to serve no greater purpose than to occupy time, bordering on extraneous. The storyline stagnates in tepid waters, never achieving the menacing depths of the psychological thriller it aspired to be. As for the personas that populate this universe, they are disappointingly one-dimensional, uninspired. Even from the outset, the central figures seemed disengaged, failing to connect with the essence of their roles. But for the commendable effort of the supporting cast—valiantly shouldering the storyline from the third chapter right through to its conclusion—my own commitment to this journey would have been severed prematurely.
  
  So what is the takeaway from investing time in this series? It perpetuates the unsettling narrative that wealth equates to righteousness, and the less affluent stand condemned unless proven otherwise. It peddles the notion that repetition of apologies is a magical panacea, capable of winning hearts despite all odds. And perhaps, it leaves a sliver of hope—one tinged with generosity—that these thespians might one day grace a screenplay that does justice to their potential. But that remains a tepid 'perhaps.' My advice? This production doesn't merit your watch list.

• wilddiehard50

  Overall 9

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

  This review could reveal key plot points
  Against all odds, this series proved to be a delightful surprise! To begin with, the performances were they were indeed impressive. The ensemble effectively channeled the essence of their respective characters, although not without the occasional misstep common in televised dramas, where one can spot moments of slight over or underperformance. But these were minor blemishes in an otherwise enjoyable viewing experience.
  
  Particularly noteworthy was the female lead; her presence was electrifying, especially in the finale, captivating me entirely....

  She did have a tendency to overly dramatize certain scenes—take the pool episode with her male co-star, where his fury was at its peak. Despite that, she truly shone. In the explosive final act involving her character and another pivotal male role, the intensity was through the roof. His brief appearance made a significant impact; one might argue his compensation should reflect it.
  
  As for the overarching narrative and its surprises, they were simultaneously anticipated and not. The search for the deceptive element within the story was rendered redundant—the true 'player' had been hiding in plain sight! The trajectory of various character arcs, like the reconciliation of two friends, was predictable, but it didn't detract from my engagement or eagerness for subsequent episodes.
  
  Although the sense of time within the series felt somewhat compressed, as if events occurred within a span of days or a month, it didn't hinder my emotional connection to the characters. My attachment to certain relationships abruptly dissipated, mirroring one character's swift emotional transition—curious how that narrative alignment felt so natural.
  
  Subjectively, the series was 'good'. Yes, I've leaned heavily on that descriptor, but it fits. While not every intense scene hit the mark, more often than not, they did. Admission: I skipped scenes. The series exceeded my nonexistent expectations, holding my attention and preventing any disappointment.
  
  For those who favor a story with minimal romance, anchored by a formidable and magnetic female lead who eventually reveals herself as the antagonist, this comes recommended. One critique, though—the fight choreography between two male characters lacked continuity and believability. Bruises appeared inconsistently, which was tolerable yet disappointing.
  
  The series opener is undeniably striking. It may prompt me to rewatch the series without skipping parts for a fuller understanding and simply because some series deserve that second chance. However, overall, it didn't compel me to return for multiple viewings—why subject oneself to such stress voluntarily?
  
  In conclusion, lovers of typical TV dramas will find much to appreciate here. Being a fan of the genre myself, I too found enjoyment in the show's offerings.

• sharpliu

  Overall 8.5

  Story 8.5,  Acting 10,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 7

  Venturing into a realm I seldom explore, a genre steeped in mystery and shadowed by the specter of death, my expectations were tempered by the concern of a narrative's potential languid pace. Yet, it was the allure of a beloved actor, P'Tay, showcasing his talents in a refreshingly divergent role that enticed me to press play on this enigmatic series.
  
  From the opening episode, I found myself entangled in its web, my curiosity piqued, eager to unravel the fates of its characters. Would the conclusion spell...

  out a tapestry of joy or would the specter of tragedy leave no pairings in its wake? The emotional investment was inescapable, provoked by performances of formidable authenticity. These portrayals elicited a spectrum of responses; smiles bloomed on my lips, disappointments furrowed my brow, and on occasion, tears breached my eyes.
  
  Upon consuming the series in its entirety, the prospect of a rewatch dwindled, for the element of surprise had dimmed and the progression, which at times felt measured, now lay bare with an ending disclosed. However, this should not deter the uninitiated. For those yet to tread its narrative path, this series emerges as a commendable watch, ripe with first-time discoveries waiting to tug at the heart and provoke the mind.