Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• shydiehard79

  Overall 6

  Story 6,  Acting 9,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 6

  Be advised, the following review contains spoilers.
  No one prepared me for this… Really, no one could’ve given me a heads-up? I find myself compelled to unleash a significant spoiler, so take heed—if you wish to remain in the dark, skip my diatribe. If curiosity has the better of you, proceed, but remember that you were forewarned.==================================MAJOR SPOILER ALERT================================What an anti-climactic ending this series gives us—an open ending that leaves story threads dangling maddeningly in the wind! I had been eagerly anticipating the release of...

  this latest series starring the talented Yang Zi, not expecting it to culminate with such an unfinished, cliffhanger ending. Had I known, I would’ve patiently awaited news of a subsequent season so as to spare myself this frustration. I must admit, my rating may experience a slight uptick once a follow-up season is confirmed.==================================================================================With my irritation aired, let’s delve into the finer points of the series.
  
  The concept captivated me from the start. The challenges faced by the 'visitor' resonate with everyday struggles, touching on the stigmatization surrounding mental health. We often shy away from admitting such issues for fear of being labeled 'mad'. Yet this series skillfully illustrates that mental wellness is not solely about the psyche but also about having someone to confide in—a non-judgmental ear.
  
  Turning our lens to the main narrative arc, I couldn’t help but echo the sentiments penned by a fellow critic, Enigma: "the subplots tend to overshadow the main plot". My interpretation, however, varies slightly. I find that the series gets bogged down by an excess of tangential stories. Take, for instance, the final couple we meet—was it necessary to introduce them at all? They could’ve used that time to tidy up loose ends, like the unresolved past of He Dun or Ye Jia Hui's familial entanglements. Why set up promises for a second season instead of delivering some semblance of resolution? It’s infuriating, to say the least—I can only hope they bring us a second act and don't leave us in narrative purgatory.
  
  Also, a note on the score: the background music, intended to be suspenseful, often leads to a sense of expectancy that fizzles into nothing, which can be quite an annoyance.

• RoughMatthew

  Overall 9

  Story 8,  Acting 9.5,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 5

  Warning: This critique may reveal key plot details.
  
  Entertainment enthusiasts seeking a blend of psychological intrigue and romantic tensions may find themselves wrapped up in this particular small-screen drama, an on-screen embodiment of Bi Shu Min's literary endeavor, "Nü Xin Li Shi". At its core, this series weaves together a tapestry of multifaceted psychological cases, each episode delving into the nuanced and complex landscape of mental health disorders.
  
  The narrative serves as a poignant reminder that humans bear an innate responsibility for their own mental wellbeing and...

  that professional guidance should be sought during tumultuous times.
  
  Diving into the deeply personalized and professionally-driven life of the leading psychologist, she embodies resilience and expertise. Her past traumas do not obscure her dedication to her patients, a testament to her character's fortitude. Her high school antagonist-turned-ally complements her, transitioning from a troubling past to a shared goal — his transformation from a radio host desperate for ratings to a top-tier media personality, thanks to their collaborative efforts.
  
  The cast around them provides a dichotomy of intentions. From the malevolent enigma harboring ulterior motives to the lifelong confidante blinded by her pursuit of wealth and love. Notably, the portrayal of the protagonist's mother reflects an eccentricity steeped in questionable humor, infusing a lightness to the drama.
  
  The spectrum of emotion is further colored by the former high school sweetheart, who infuses the narrative with whimsicality. His fear of the spectral and his comedic tendencies inject a necessary levity, balancing the heavier subjects at hand.
  
  The on-screen relationship between our key psychologist and her significant other blossoms gently; fans may crave deeper explorations of their bond, finding the relatively subdued depiction of their romance a touch underwhelming.
  
  Tang Lili's narrative arc teaches a lesson in resilience, her romantic journey painting a portrait of a woman not deterred by past heartache, her ending acting as a touchstone of hope, albeit concluding with a few narrative threads left loose.
  
  Character development is at the forefront, particularly for the protagonist, whose outer calm belies an inner complexity. However, her on-screen attire, viewed by some as too somber, may misalign with her otherwise vibrant character.
  
  The depiction of Qian Kaiyi leans into the lighter side of things, his quirky mannerisms and follies adorning many enjoyable moments. His journey from frivolity to a deeper connection with the leading lady mirrored the growth seen in many of this series' characters.
  
  Praises ring out for the actors, whose chemistry is undeniable — a sentiment shared by many who admired Yang Zi's performance and Jing Boran's professionally crafted portrayal. This drama marks a stamp of excellence for the actors involved, reaffirming their status within the industry.
  
  For serial binge-watchers, one might ponder the rewatchability of such a series. While its gripping themes and characters are undeniably mesmerizing, the genre's severity might pool it into the 'one-time-watch' category for those seeking lighter viewing experiences in their repeat indulgences.

• fiercetoucan88

  Overall 6.5

  Story 6,  Acting 9.5,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 5

  Be aware that the following critique may reveal key plot elements
  The Splendid ... The Lackluster ... & ... The Chaos
  
  In the initial chapters of this engrossing series, the quality was unimpeachable. Pace, plot, performance—each element dovetailed to create captivating television. The standout, for yours truly, was the subplot involving the intricate psyches of seemingly mundane characters—each one a case study unto themselves. The depth of psychological exploration akin to a detective series yet far more nuanced, with the resident "mind-reader" dexterously peeling back layers...

  of the human psyche.
  
  Among a sparkling ensemble, a particular thespian stole my affection. His character's infectious humor offered a welcome counterpoint to the show's denser, more shadowed narratives. With his bright wardrobe choices bordering on comical, he became the pivot upon which the emotional scale of the show balanced. As for the leading performances by the respected actors playing the primary duo, both were laudable for their nuanced turn as protagonists.
  
  Alas, enter the decline. Circa midway, the script seemed to lose its compass. A disheartening shift in focus truncated the once-rich subplots. The once thrilling central story turned tepid and tepid turned to mediocre. My expectations, inflated by early excellence, were unfulfilled as the so-called mastermind's gambit against the seasoned professor unraveled with little intellectual grace. The scandal that ensnared him—an easily collapsible house of cards if only examined properly. A day's digging by a loyal sidekick exposed motives ripe for tactical exploitation, yet this angle mysteriously fell by the wayside, a negligent omission in an otherwise sagacious narrative.
  
  The concluding stretch proved most exasperating. A sequence of broadcasted chapters seemed designed to distract rather than resolve. With new faces, amorous diversions, and additional narratives crowding the scene, the originally tight narrative balance was lost. Leaving a maze of unanswered questions, the creators compounded confusion, strewing about red herrings and loose threads, suggesting a sequel could be in the hatchery.
  
  Such a myriad of unsolved enigmas needn’t be the hook for the anticipated continuation—a single, intriguing loose end would suffice. Despite the final act's shortcomings, the series’ onset was masterful, and that alone makes it worthy of an audience. The later episodes, I'd advise to approach with tempered expectations to avoid the sting of disillusionment. This drama, distinct in conception from its cultural counterparts, floundered in its narrative execution, failing to carry its early momentum to the curtain call.

• tinybladerunner1

  Overall 8

  Story 8,  Acting 9.5,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 7

  Discovering a series that manages to intertwine the complexities of the human mind with the tender beats of romance is always an exhilarating experience. Venturing into this domain primarily out of admiration for the leading lady's previous work, it was surprising to find myself completely captivated by this genre-blending narrative. Initially, I held reservations about psychological dramas, often finding them a bit distant from my preferences. However, this particular series not only shattered my preconceived notions but also left a profound imprint on my understanding...

  of mental health.
  
  It wasn't an immediate love affair; it took a handful of episodes before the storytelling completely reeled me in. But once hooked, there was no turning back. The pacing of the narrative was impeccable, skillfully unraveling intricacies without ever feeling sluggish or hastily done. The series adeptly balanced its dual themes—knowledgeably exploring the demanding realities faced by mental health professionals, while simultaneously charting out a love story that felt both genuine and heartfelt.
  
  Amid the series' more intense moments, dashes of humor provided the necessary respite, coming off as organic rather than forced. The leads' once shared high school past and present encounters were a delightful meld of nostalgia and new beginnings, refusing to surrender any spoilers for eager new viewers. Their on-screen camaraderie was undeniable, eliciting smiles with their every shared frame.
  
  The supporting cast, too, contributed substantially to the narrative. Whether it was with characters that one might not instantly warm to, such as the protagonist's mother, or others who added layers to the main storyline, the series was a testament to well-rounded character development.
  
  Breaking away from the conversation about the intertwining lives depicted on screen, I was thoroughly impressed by the show's soundtrack—an array of tunes that resonated with the show's emotional depth. Of particular note was a track that I’ll refrain from name-dropping, but its melody still lingers in my mind.
  
  When it comes to rewatching the series, time constraints often govern my choices, and despite the leading lady reigning as a personal favorite, I must confess the rewatch value doesn't rise to the top of my list. That's not to say the series lacks merit; far from it. But the likelihood of a second viewing, given the wealth of content waiting to be discovered, remains on the lower end.
  
  Without a hint of partiality, I've rated the series with a glowing endorsement. With a touch of hope, I look forward to seeing its acclaim soar in time. For those who gravitate toward psychological narratives with a heartfelt touch, this drama promises to entertain without a dull moment.

• brightghostbusters95

  Overall 7

  Story 7,  Acting 9.5,  Music 9.5,  Rewatch Value 2

  Caution: This review may reveal key plot points
  A Promising Journey Derailed
  
  There was undeniable promise in this psychological drama—a narrative poised to delve deeply into the therapeutic journeys of a cast of patients, courtesy of a central psychologist character whose expertise framed each episode. Initially, the series offered robust exploration of her professional engagements as well as her personal life, alongside a tumultuous blend of friends, family, love interests, and a notably ominous adversary. Indeed, early episodes were a blueprint for success, as each narrative...

  thread was woven with care and purpose.
  
  However, as the series approached its midpoint, the narrative stumbled, transforming what had been a confidently led exploration into an unfurling cacophony of confusion. Subplots began to cloud the primary arc, and characters acted in ways that contradicted their established personas. New characters were haphazardly thrown into the mix, sowing discord without clear intent or resolution, some vanishing as abruptly as they appeared. Certain scenes hinted at in promotional material failed to materialize, suggesting significant post-production revisions that may have jostled the series' cohesiveness.
  
  The villain of the piece—a character who flitted unnervingly between malevolence and a skewed morality—received a conclusion that many would find frustratingly lenient, considering the gravity of his misdeeds. His motivations were muddled, often revealing themselves as misdirected attempts at vengeance, while the true villainy seemed to lie elsewhere.
  
  The anticipated scandal that was implied to be a pivotal revelation for our protagonist’s somnambulist tendencies ultimately fell flat, insufficiently built-up, and left to the last moments to address. The protagonist’s familial storyline, too, was introduced but left hanging unresolved, leaving a frayed tapestry of storylines. The art of the cliffhanger can be a potent tool, which when utilized selectively, can tantalize audiences with the promise of continuation. In this case, however, viewers were left with a multitude of loose ends rather than a single, compelling thread.
  
  The romantic dynamics underwent jarring shifts as well. The central female character's love life transformed drastically, discarding a wealthy suitor in favor of a more down-to-earth love interest with little narrative foundation, suggesting rushed character development by the writers.
  
  In the closing arc of the series, another patient couple was introduced, their involvement and resolution packed into a few episodes. The conclusion of the antagonist's story segued from high drama into a peculiar, abrupt resolution, leading to an ending that seemed to belong to an entirely different narrative.
  
  While the actors delivered commendable performances and the soundtrack remained a high point, these elements were but vestiges of the show's former strength. What commenced as a series ripe with potential concluded with a disheartening exhibition of misplaced focus and narrative inconsistency.
  
  For viewers considering this series, proceed with managed expectations. The allure of its beginnings may be enough to entice, but the unwieldy latter half and its lackluster denouement may disappoint. Whether one would brave the journey knowing of the uneven terrain ahead remains a personal choice.