6
52
3
virgievirgie
Lost in Dramaland
Darker and more Mature Sequel; Fast-paced with plenty (or too many) plot twists.
“The Gifted: Graduation” is a darker and more serious sequel to its predecessor. It covers a lot more ethical and moral issues regarding the discovery, use and control of potentials. I can see why many find this sequel not as good as season 1 because of the tone shift. Personally, I am fine with the change, and find the pacing continues to be well and fast.
After a couple years, the young actors and actresses have honed in their skills and I think are better in portraying the more complicated emotions. I critiqued the female cast’s acting in season 1 but I have to say, Claire was a lot better. We don’t see much of Mon, unfortunately, and Namtarn only got a few minutes of screen time. The male cast continues to be the star of the show, with the exception of the twins. Their potential really doesn’t give them much in the grand scheme of things, aside from being a telephone. I think season 2 continues to have the challenge of balancing a big cast’s screen time. In addition to the original cast, we added at least 3 more main characters.
Even though the pacing is fast and you won’t get bored, I do think the overwhelming number of plot twists make it hard to breathe and absorb what just happened. There are a couple episodes when the twist happens one after another and we’re given an explanation via quick flashbacks. I am not sure if it’s an editing issue or a writing issue. Nevertheless, you won’t feel bored and lost your interest. I also find it interesting how the smart Director would just disclose his plans to everyone. I know he's supposed to be super confident in his plans, but isn't that kinda dumb as well? On another note, this main character really shouldn't trust him after being burnt so many times.
It’s been a while since I last saw a Thai drama with so many in-your-face product placements. Maybe because they need a larger budget, or this is a 2020 production? Within the first 7 minutes of the show, we already got a lip balm ad. These products come fast and furious and never really subsides. We have lip balm, ice teas, water bottles, snacks, noodles, face wash, etc. And on top of that, there are a few mini skis at the end of the episode to further showcase these products.
Overall, this is a pretty decent sequel. However, I enjoyed season 1 more. I think the distribution of comedy, ethic/moral issues, thriller and suspense was more well-done in season 1.
Completed: 1/22/2023
After a couple years, the young actors and actresses have honed in their skills and I think are better in portraying the more complicated emotions. I critiqued the female cast’s acting in season 1 but I have to say, Claire was a lot better. We don’t see much of Mon, unfortunately, and Namtarn only got a few minutes of screen time. The male cast continues to be the star of the show, with the exception of the twins. Their potential really doesn’t give them much in the grand scheme of things, aside from being a telephone. I think season 2 continues to have the challenge of balancing a big cast’s screen time. In addition to the original cast, we added at least 3 more main characters.
Even though the pacing is fast and you won’t get bored, I do think the overwhelming number of plot twists make it hard to breathe and absorb what just happened. There are a couple episodes when the twist happens one after another and we’re given an explanation via quick flashbacks. I am not sure if it’s an editing issue or a writing issue. Nevertheless, you won’t feel bored and lost your interest. I also find it interesting how the smart Director would just disclose his plans to everyone. I know he's supposed to be super confident in his plans, but isn't that kinda dumb as well? On another note, this main character really shouldn't trust him after being burnt so many times.
It’s been a while since I last saw a Thai drama with so many in-your-face product placements. Maybe because they need a larger budget, or this is a 2020 production? Within the first 7 minutes of the show, we already got a lip balm ad. These products come fast and furious and never really subsides. We have lip balm, ice teas, water bottles, snacks, noodles, face wash, etc. And on top of that, there are a few mini skis at the end of the episode to further showcase these products.
Overall, this is a pretty decent sequel. However, I enjoyed season 1 more. I think the distribution of comedy, ethic/moral issues, thriller and suspense was more well-done in season 1.
Completed: 1/22/2023
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