This review may contain spoilers
History3 Make our days count is a raw gem. It could have been astounding without some "flaws" in the writing or in the pace or without the ambiguous message it conveys. Nevertheless, it is a must-watch in terms of acting, emotional connection and chemistry. Definitely one of the best BL drama this year.
Positive points :
- The plot is simple but effective.
- The relationships between the characters (friends, family, lovers) are all really well done and detailed.
- Some scenes were so beautifully shot they left an everlasting impression (the love-making scene, Wayne's gripping distress...).
- The acting is excellent especially from Wayne Song, Huang Juan Zhi and Sara Yu. Let's not forget about Xiang Hao Ting's sister who has played her part really well.
Negative points :
- Sometimes the pace seems a little too fast or a little too slow : some conflicts are resolved too quickly or not really dealt in depth.
- There are some exaggerated expressions going with the comedic aspect of the series and it feels sometimes awkward.
Debatable points :
- BL tropes : stalking, a forced kiss, the possessive and jealous boyfriend, dubious consent in the fever scene...In Make our days count, you can find the usual problematic BL tropes. However, they are more or less acknowledged in the series as something that should have an answer (an apologize, a character recognizing his problematic behavior and acting accordingly later, etc.). It is not something you see often in a BL series.
- The ending ? Make our days count is a tragedy and the title is ominous enough to tell you there won't be a happy end for the main couple. The ending is also ambiguous about Xiang Haoting's future. His ghost-like appearance in the last episode, his dialogue or his words are at best unclear. You can really wonder if he has the will to live without his most precious person.
And the problem lies with that. The ambiguity is at odds with the message of a franchise sold as a safeplace in BL world because of its usual "happy" endings. It is also at odds with the stated "hopeful" message of a series which says to cherish your love ones when they are still there and to go on with your life despite a terrible loss. The "dead-end"(and cruel) ending does not really convey that message.
It is no wonder the last episode has caused such a strong (and almost hysteric) reaction in the BL fandom and community. However, the extent of this reaction should tell you something of a rare and undeniable quality Make our days count has : the ability to create a deep emotional connection with your audience (for better or for worse ?).
Positive points :
- The plot is simple but effective.
- The relationships between the characters (friends, family, lovers) are all really well done and detailed.
- Some scenes were so beautifully shot they left an everlasting impression (the love-making scene, Wayne's gripping distress...).
- The acting is excellent especially from Wayne Song, Huang Juan Zhi and Sara Yu. Let's not forget about Xiang Hao Ting's sister who has played her part really well.
Negative points :
- Sometimes the pace seems a little too fast or a little too slow : some conflicts are resolved too quickly or not really dealt in depth.
- There are some exaggerated expressions going with the comedic aspect of the series and it feels sometimes awkward.
Debatable points :
- BL tropes : stalking, a forced kiss, the possessive and jealous boyfriend, dubious consent in the fever scene...In Make our days count, you can find the usual problematic BL tropes. However, they are more or less acknowledged in the series as something that should have an answer (an apologize, a character recognizing his problematic behavior and acting accordingly later, etc.). It is not something you see often in a BL series.
- The ending ? Make our days count is a tragedy and the title is ominous enough to tell you there won't be a happy end for the main couple. The ending is also ambiguous about Xiang Haoting's future. His ghost-like appearance in the last episode, his dialogue or his words are at best unclear. You can really wonder if he has the will to live without his most precious person.
And the problem lies with that. The ambiguity is at odds with the message of a franchise sold as a safeplace in BL world because of its usual "happy" endings. It is also at odds with the stated "hopeful" message of a series which says to cherish your love ones when they are still there and to go on with your life despite a terrible loss. The "dead-end"(and cruel) ending does not really convey that message.
It is no wonder the last episode has caused such a strong (and almost hysteric) reaction in the BL fandom and community. However, the extent of this reaction should tell you something of a rare and undeniable quality Make our days count has : the ability to create a deep emotional connection with your audience (for better or for worse ?).
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