First, I have to say that the acting was very good, especially the main character who was very skillfully portaited. He was exactly how one of my friend (who's autist) is and well, that's amazing how even the way he walks was greatly portrayed. I really loved how each characters was deeply developed.
The story in itself is good, although maybe too long. For a perfect show I would've cut a little bit earlier in the story... As there were some romance/irrealistic things that were really different from the rest of the drama. Also, at times you really get the impression that they just want to make the story longer; I guess they should've made the same story but with only like, 35 episodes. They show some scenes during 3 minutes just with a different angle and your like, yeah, well, that's not even the most epic/emotional scene so could we just advance in the story?
And the ending was a bit too much... Lovey Dovey, I'd say. But I guess romance lovers have to be satisfied too...
But that doesn't mean the show wasn't good. You stay on the edge on your seat, wanting always more and more and to know what happens to the characters, whom you really become attached to. You see how the main character grows up and become stronger, and that really is an inspiration for everybody. I actually stayed up until 2am to watch a few more episodes, and I don't do that for every dramas out there- there were really some epic moments !!
As for the music, I really liked the ending song, and the few music out were nice, although not memorable.
What is incredible is how you're projected in the 1950. The set is beautifully done and the clothes are perfect.
As for the rewatch value... Well, I'm sure I'll rewatch some part of the drama- there are some really epic scenes hehe- but maybe not in its entirety.
Anyway, if you like spy/action dramas, this is for you!
And if you love romance, well, there are some hints in the beginning and the last ten episodes are for you, hehe
(Sorry for my bad English~)
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Unsung Heroes
Decoded tells the story of a Mathematics genius, who has a form of autism, being part of a team of young recruits joining a confidential decoding unit of the Communist military, during their war against the Nationalists (Kuomintang) at the beginning of the Mao administration. Based on the novel of the same name by bestselling spy novelist, Mai Jia, the drama chronicles his journey from humble beginnings as a college student to becoming a hero of Unit 701 by successfully decoding the hitherto invincible Purple Code, an encryption program used by the enemy.The premise is reminiscent of The Imitation Game and A Beautiful Mind, while the storyline resembles Young Blood (2019). Action, thriller, suspense, and romance infused with slice-of-life and humour along with themes of coming-of-age, family, brotherhood, friendship, betrayal, tragedy, revenge, as well as redemption. This drama has it all neatly condensed into 41 episodes.
The drama showcases high production values in recreating the setting for Ningzhou in the late 1940s, in addition to the impressive art direction and authentic costume designs of the era. It features commendable performances by Chen Xue Dong and Ying Er in the lead roles of Rong Jin Zhen and Zhai Li respectively. They are supported by the talented Zhang Zhe Han and Jing Chao, along with notable veterans Guo Jing Fei and Bai Qing Lin. Li Nan delivers a compelling portrayal of the villainous Chen Jian Nian while Wu Wen Jing makes a memorable appearance in a guest role.
The plotline and characters are generally well written, although certain aspects of the storytelling defy belief somewhat through rather surprising turns of events and shocking twists and turns. A couple of story arcs are presented longer than necessary, thus resulting in uneven pacing especially at the halfway point. However, all major characters are fully fleshed out while the drama does finish strongly, albeit a little rushed particularly in the last episode that brings closure to the overarching plot.
Renowned composer Roc Chen (阿鲲) provides the hauntingly evocative theme song for the production, Wei Man (微芒) which is beautifully performed by Cao Yang (曹洋).
Overall, Decoded is quite an engaging and well-acted drama that provides enough thrills and spills from the decently-rendered action sequences and depiction of spycraft, as well as more than a few emotive moments throughout. I find myself quite invested in Chen Xue Dong’s portrayal of Rong Jin Zhen in his journey of self discovery where he experiences much character development that results in a truly remarkable transformation.
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Now, I know 41 episode might scare you away, HOWEVER, it was really well formulated and the scriptwriters did a great job at making each episodes exciting and entertaining. I wasn't bored at all during it (which sometimes did happen with others dramas this long). Most of the scenes were relevant to development of the story, and keeps you at the edge of your seat.
What I really liked about this drama was the whole development of each character, how they grew throughout the story and the changes that they experienced. The interaction between characters was also great to see!
I have to give kuddos to the production team, LOVED the sets and all the different outfits! Really felt like i just jumped back in time into the republican area.
I definitely recommend this drama! It is really entertaining and has a great plot, not to mention all the great actors in it! Give it a try, you won't regret it!
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Even though the plot and the things happening are usual for chinese series, but this is on another level. And even though it's kinda cliché and you think you know exactly what's coming, there's always a twist and it's really different from other series I've watched before.
I hope that you'll Watch it, and if you don't like it.. try watching a few more episodes and you'll find yourself unable to stop watching it <3
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The Life Journey of A Genius; From Autistic to an Unsung Hero
The first thing that attracted me was that this drama is based on a novel by Mai Jia. Set in the early era of Communist China. But judging from the storyline it should be around the 1960s, because one of the characters in the story, Manager Wang said he was a war veteran who had fought Japan, Taiwan and join the Korea war (the Korean war ended in 1953).Although it is acknowledged that the drama's headline is about espionage, like all great stories, it evolves around the integrity of human struggle, sacrifice, love for the country, and romance. The way the characters deal with all the obstacles, suffering, and losses, could stirs our emotions. In 41 episodes we are not invited to explore ways of solving codes using mathematics. Of course, this is not a story about that. We are also not invited to explore espionage specifically. The strength of the story is not in those aspects. Rather, the aspect of the struggle of the main character finds the fact that human potentials are unlimited, all we need to do is challenge our limitations.
In my opinion, 41 episodes is a bit long-winded. Some less relevant passages would be fine if they were not included. For example, Rong JinZhen encountered with Zheng Dang on his campus. Bullies scene against Rong at 701 headquarters. Lie Ting who likes to throw a tantrum, until Yan Shi humiliates Rong who has become a hero and his superior in front of the trainees. Perhaps, while maintaining a suspenseful, and heartwarming storyline, 35 episodes will suffice. The ending of this drama is very beautiful. Only in the rescue of Mrs. Rong, and Miss Rong by Rong Jinzhen on the train didn't even stand out.
All the cast of this drama are amazing. The main player, Chenney Chen perfectly plays an autistic person, and transformations along with his mental development. However, it's not only Chen who plays well, every player, even the supporting roles are able to bring the story characters to life and make us recognize the characters.
I think I will rewacth this serie in the future. I find it phylosophycally rich, For example, the 701 members were loved their country, but inside they still could feel the bitterness. At the end they're just human. If the lost their humanity, they will become fanatic, or extremist.
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Acting/Cast/Music : They only have 1 song for this drama I believe. Music plays really well, hit the right moment - To be honest, I’m crybaby. But gosh the story, the way their introduced the cast’s characters and develop their background stories in the drama....it’s amazing and I think I cried most of the episodes....honest!
Rewatch : I re-watch-ing...now haha
Oh ya, I actually didn’t sleep up to 22 hours....minus 10 hours of working, bath, eat...I watched straight 12 hours...really good!
I’d like to applaud to the whole production team, scriptwriters, producers, casts and all the people who involved in creating this amazing work >< thumbbb up!!
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