Surprisingly bland.
I wanted to love it, but there was truly not that much to love about it. I feel awful saying that. The fact is, the drama barely made me feel anything.The bromance was fine, the cases were fine, the stakes were fine. But I felt like the whole show lacked... emotions. With the rather diverse variety of the cases, victims and perpetrators, it seemed like the majority of them reacted the same subdued way. Even for situations that would validate a proper rage, despair, fear - there was barely anything. I felt like the whole show lacked... emotions.
As I said though, we do get quite a variety of different cases that focus on different social struggles and dilemmas - social and workplace discrimination of women who struggle to secure their place despite presenting outstanding skills, loneliness of the youth, desperation that comes from love, social stigma towards victims of sexual abuse and how it can lead to not seeking justice, cyber crime against seniors that uses their lack of technological literacy and love for their families against them and many more.
What’s more to love? The acting was amazing, I give it to them. Tan Jian Ci might be one of the most diverse young actors in China right now. The way he can deliver a baby girl energy here, and edge lord energy in Lost You Forever alone should be the proof. He truly becomes the character he is playing - nothing about his performance seems fake.
While he truly became the star of the show, I do want to give props to the casting director. Crime procedural shows have a lot of guest roles for all the witnesses, victims and perpetrators - it’s not easy to have good actors play every role. Under the Skin managed to achieve that.
I think my biggest issue was how unrealistically good Shen Yi was at his job. I understand that professional forensic artists can do this, but he was not one when he took the job for the first time. The level of skill he showcased fitted more the “about to retire, working criminal cases for past 50 years” scenario. If they made him make some mistakes, maybe I could accept that, but they truly made his skill borderline supernatural.
So it did not matter how much I loved his character, when I could not stop laughing every time he started to sketch. I don't even want to talk about the prosopagnosia case, because that was a bit of a clownery. While it’s clear the production team researched a lot about forensic art and art overall, I cannot say the same about various other topics that were presented.
What’s more? Bromance was not truly bromancing for me. There were a few scenes here and there, but overall, I don’t think Tan Jian Ci and Jin Shi Jia have that much chemistry on screen, or maybe it was the issue of directing their scenes? I guess we will see in the second season.
Overall, something did not click right with me when I was watching. I was enjoying it, but I was not obsessed, even though on paper it seems like a drama I should want to binge watch in one sitting, forgetting to eat, sleep and pee…
Was this review helpful to you?
The Best C-Drama on First Half of 2022
I think this drama underrated, because the story is unique about face painter and mystery crime, that rarely told in many dramas, and of course there are many forensic science that use not just autopsy, but there are cyber forensic and psychology forensic. I am very excited for the first I read the synopsis and watch the trailer, and went it comes to air, I am very happy because the drama is more than I expected, Thanks for all Under The Skin Team to make this drama and give me more information to solved the case with many methodWas this review helpful to you?
Solid throughout, addicting to watch - TL, DR below
I really wish I could give this a higher rating as it was hard not to binge through at once. But apart from a lot of minor issues and the fact that I am mad there's not more episodes, my expectations were a bit let down, too.First things first: Since only the first season is available on viki as of now and the second hence might not be available to all viewers, let me assure you that you can absolutely watch season 1 without ever needing to watch season 2 to get closure. (That is, if you don't get insanely hooked and addicted for more.)
The plot: It's a crime series that is rather episodical with a hinted main plot that occasionally comes up and has its final arch towards the end. The cases take longer to solve which allows for suspense and more attention to detail, making it stand out from all those western crime dramas that mostly solve one case in one episode. We get drawn into the victims' and culprits' lives, discovering their motives and going through every little detail of their actions. While this makes it stand out, it also means you might like some cases more than others, depending on how much the backstories stir your interest. The final arch, despite not being anything unique and solved rather quickly, was as solid as everything else, but with the cases stretching over several episodes we got to see rather few normal cases before the finale.
The few episodes also allow for many details to be missed: When does a painter, who suddenly joins the police, learn all the things he certainly has to learn to be allowed to visit crime scenes, catch culprits and solve cases? We rarely get to see his professional development, he is sort of displayed as someone who's almost genius-like.
Individuality/USP: In general, this is nothing new. The concept of catching killers with a pen is, but everything else is the A to Z of crime dramas. But it's solid and well-made and by far not entirely foreseeable. Don't expect everything to be realistic, and you'll be fine. Also, of course MLs brilliance will be the preferred excuse to explain how he is able to do things that realistically probably wouldn't be possible (but I'm neither an artist nor a genius so what do I know). I do wish for the series to go a bit more beyond the standards and dare to be a bit more unique. The core idea of solving crimes with drawings was used througout the series but could have played an even bigger role, hence I can't give it a higher rating. I know I am nitpicking, but with so much potential already fulfilled, seeing the series leave the last bits to become a masterpiece untouched bugs me.
The limited screen time was this series' biggest issue, way beyond the "it was so good I want more episodes" problem I have right now (as that will be hopefully fixed with season 2).
The characters: I liked all characters but the main leads especially. We see character development and growth, although it's not huge, and changes in dynamics that were displayed really well and satisfying to watch. Side characters aren't left alone and forgotten but continuously interact with each other and play important roles throughout the story.
Acting: I am not good at rating acting, but the main leads did a great job. While both main characters are supposed to be rather reserved and hard to see through, their personalities obviously differed and had their own unique traits. They were proof for all those romance dramas out there that quiet and reserved ML does not equal stone face.
Also worth mentioning:
Despite being a crime drama with a couple of action or emotionally heavy scenes, there's so few screaming and yelling. Shen Yi's personality also had a very calming effect, not only on the viewers, but also those around him. It was awesome. It also isn't very violent, graphic or cruel, so it's safe to binge through in the middle of the night.
The art pieces were actually beautiful and Shen Yi does have his very unique style, making his drawings seem very authentic and easily recognizable. A lot of professionalism and thought went into displaying his art.
I actually learned more interesting facts about art and even got a bit of life advice out of it that I then tried on other people (who were impressed by my wisdom).
TL, DR: When do I NOT recommend watching:
- You are tired of typical crime series and their tropes
- You want a series about one single case that is investigated in detail
- You don't want anything complex at all, only episodical short cases
- You want to see detective work only, not know more about the characters
Other than that, give it a try!
Was this review helpful to you?
the movie
I really appreciate the author of this series, the story was smooth and easy to understand, it gave a little learning about how the police work and the psychological world, I'm very impressed.I really appreciate the author of this series, the story was smooth and easy to understand, it gave a little learning about how the police work and the psychological world, I'm very impressed.
I really appreciate the author of this series, the story was smooth and easy to understand, it gave a little learning about how the police work and the psychological world, I'm very impressed.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Multifaceted Mind of a Sketch Artist
Had watched "Are You Safe?" with TJC and was very impressed with his acting so wanted to see more of him and this was recommended by some trusted sources. He didn't disappoint and this 20 episode drama really was a breath of fresh air in terms of sticking to a flowing storyline. Seeing his character use his strengths in the face of some pretty hard blows, was awesome. We really see inside the multifaceted mind of a sketch artist.Pros: Favorite character was, of course, the lead SY played by TJC. Even in his hardest moments of dealing with a repressed memory and PTSD, he was this calming force. His iron willpower and acknowledgment that he was able to do amazing things was one of the many things that helped his character be as plausible as he was. I'm very much hoping there will be a season 2 given the open-ending with the same cast especially him.
The storyline never dragged, each character was there for as long as they needed to be. SY's partner or DC at the bureau definitely started off being a cynical grouch for all the right reasons but it was great that he thawed fairly quickly and their friendship was built on trust, respect, and even their rough history. All those hardships helped build them to be what they became by the midpoint.
Loved how interwoven the main plot was with the sub plots that were very well and handled properly; the antagonists were also placed very well and even the big bad behind the original murder that brought everyone together, was expertly placed and executed. All OST's, CGI, explanations behind how a sketch artist worked, and other procedural techniques were very understandable. It even had a few bits of comedy where SY would always fall asleep in the car as DC would be explaining a case to him or when he would bolt out of a room without telling anyone and people would just be left staring like "what just happened?" This was a great crime drama.
Cons: This drama was on its way to get a rare perfect score from me but it had just one problem I couldn't get beyond. SY was a sketch artist, a fantastic one at that, probably a prodigy in art and in his field but when they gave him a gun, strapped a vest on him, put him in the field, or had him interrogate suspects, get evidence for them, basically made him a Jack of all trades, it was very unrealistic. There's no way a sketch artist in any police department of any country would ever be a detective, interrogator, etc. Everything else was wonderful but that one portion just took a bump down; they should have just kept him in his element; even teaching makes sense but not that. Like when did he get training? He never went to a police academy.
Would I recommend it? 100%! That one negative doesn't negate an excellent story, characters that make sense, no forced anything. If you like good acting, great writing, and crime dramas, this show is definitely for you. Very glad I watched it.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Brilliant. ❤❤❤❤❤Highly Recommended.
Love it.Already craving for Season-2 .
I love everything about Under the Skin, especially the flow of plot in every mysteries while Shen Yi struggled to find that mysterious woman who took advantage of his art.
Love the way SY (TJC) never gives up.
Tan JianCi did a Wonderful job of portraying SY. Would love to see JianCi as SY solving mysteries again.❤❤❤
It has a satisfying cliffhanger ending.
I hope they makes S-2.
The painting slashing in SY apartment by that mysterious person, gives goosebumps in a good way. It Gives excitement for more.
Was this review helpful to you?
Unique talent/focus of the artist is the biggest draw of the show.
Completed - 5/26/2022I am not sure how accurate the portrayal of police sketch artists is in this drama and if they are really that smart and fascinating in real life. However, the biggest selling point of this drama is Shen Yi. I am in awe of his techniques, perceptiveness, and intelligence in solving crimes using his art. Can you really sketch someone's face by deducing what's behind a mask from an unclear CCTV footage? Or from skull and bone structures? Or from the restructuring of facial muscles and tendons? It's really fascinating to watch all of Shen Yi's scenes and to learn from him and what's going on inside that brain of his.
The length of each case is just right. Oftentimes, cases are either too long and you get bored, or they are too short and start back-to-back that I feel like I couldn't catch a breath. Some of the cases in the first 1/3 of the show are more exciting to me than others. I was hoping these cases will slowly provide clues of the main overarching storyline of the murder case 7 years ago. However, aside from that one case and the last arc, the drama seems to have completely forgotten about this general plot. Even though I enjoy most of the cases, I was never on the edge of my seat. I am missing mini climaxes throughout the drama. Because of this, the drama lost my attention in the middle.
A personal pet peeve, I was very irritated when the psychologist disclosed patient confidential information. How unprofessional is that? She's giving out both diagnosis and treatment information without the patient's consent. On another note, why was the crime scene medical examiner be called to assist another station with a rape patient? Don't they have hospital doctors to do that?
We also have a slow burn friendship/bromance going on. I was actually expecting better chemistry, as I saw so many feeds post about the male leads when this drama was airing. The development of the friendship happens towards the last 1/3 of the drama. Other than that, the leads are just like regular co-workers working side by side. I am not feeling the connection of the characters and am missing the human side of their stories. I don't dislike anyone, yet I don't particularly like anyone either.
The beautiful drawings/paintings, and the uniqueness of Shen Yi's talents are what kept me interested in the drama. Unfortunately, I don't share the same excitement of this drama as other watchers.
Was this review helpful to you?
very clever!
This is my first thriller/suspense type of drama, mainly checking on TJC works after watching LYF, and i have truly enjoyed it!I never thought how much is done behind a crime in terms of sketching a criminal and, with the use of the fast developing AI in every industry, thsi drama has shown how dangerous it would be to solely rely on it as it could be easily manipulated by interested parties.
Every crime is keeping the viewer highly engaged as it is given 2-3 episodes to be solved.
We have a satisfying ending.. but.. there is a 'but'.. the last scene.. is opening new opportunities for a second season... which is in discussion as of today's date 🥰🥰🥰
Was this review helpful to you?
I love how they portrayed Shen Yi, a genius from the very beginning, but managed to make him an empathetic and warm character. Du Cheng is almost his antithesis, while Shen Yi is calm and often collected, Du Cheng is brash and it shows in his interrogation scenes.
My only problem with the show is that my small brain got confused during the middle and end. But that can honestly be looked over because it all gets explained later.
The actors all captured my heart, there were only one to two criminals that didn't allow me to feel empathy for. And the main team are all likable and have their own part of the story. Tan Jianci and Jin Shijia stole the show with their performance, Shen Yi and Du Cheng's relationship and trust in each other was an amazing thing to see.
All the subplots in the story give it an almost slice-of-life feel. I enjoyed pretty much every episode that I watched.
The music gave me chills every time, haha. I think that even with the limited music selection that they chose, they created the correct atmosphere for each situation and episode.
ANYWAYS 9.5/10 SHOW!! Hope there's a season 2! :D
Was this review helpful to you?
And it was, in a way.
You have Shen Yi, who is almost a savant in his abilities to draw portraits out of the most obscure clues and his sidekick and partner Chen Du. You have a series of cases that can only be solved by this ability.
In all technical aspects, the drama was fine, great even. But something was lacking.
One aspect that I can point out is that the mastermind and thus the plot in the last one and a half episodes felt very disconnected from the rest – none of it used Shen Yi’s original ability of drawing or deepened the metaphor of “under the skin”; instead, we got a plot about surveillance and computers. Also, a new metaphor of playing chess was introduced – and suddenly Shen Yi is the greatest chess player ever.
Not only is it that the plot diverged from the established pattern too much but also the dynamics between the two main leads is disturbed: While in the first two thirds, we had Shen Yi as the savant who does his own thing and Du Chen as the upright police officer who is rash and hands-on, this distinction disappears completely later.
Part of it might be the unavoidable propaganda (which is why I approach Chinese dramas with great caution): It could have been much worse, but it’s still there. The police can do no wrong, they are all morally above reproach (apart from the occasional emotional outburst), they are all doing their job out of conviction, and, of course, none of them is not likable. Police brutality? Questionable interrogation methods? Of course not.
Interestingly, the evil mastermind reminded me of a certain American whose name begins with Marc and ends with Zuckerberg – I am sure no parallels were intended.
But even in the earlier episodes, the cases left me lukewarm. There was exactly one moment that caught me, everything else felt … muted, maybe. I would love to see a Japanese remake, I think they would play up the eccentricities and tighten the pace a bit, so the emotions can hit better.
Was it good?
It was great in all technical aspects; but felt too slow at times. I feel that the last case didn’t fit with the rest, and that the world building that was definitely there could have been explored more.
Did I like it?
It was okay.
Would I recommend it?
Not necessarily. Maybe to those who both love classic whodunnits *and* the style of Chinese dramas?
Was this review helpful to you?
Wow this had no Romance!
The storyline was very well done. I'm impressed that this had two main male Chinese actors. I was also impressed that I finally got to see a Chinese drama without romance or competition of female leads for the male lead or vice versa. I love art, the producers were perfect with how their direction regarding sketches, drawings, and what made me very happy is that they showed face blindness having autism. Thank you for bringing attention to autism disorders. Tan Jian Ci who played Shen Yi was excellent with his acting displaying a sketch artist and oil paintings. Very handsome actor. Jin Shi Jia who played Du Cheng, for a minute I thought he was a real detective/police. JSJ was very believable. I thank all the actors/actresses in the characters that they played to make the storyline more believable. This is a rewatch for me!Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Beautiful Tan Jianci and Art, what more do you need?
Another completely biased review from me to you.This is the show that introduced me to Tan Jianci, and I must say I am hooked!💖 What an incredibly talented entertainer he is! I have watched this show a few times. I'm keeping this on my permanent list of shows to watch over and over again.
The opening credit visuals are really striking and set the mood for the entire series nicely. The series can be rather dark at times but it does keep your interest and your heart rate going. The music and lighting all add to the atmosphere. Probably a not-very-realistic depiction of forensic artists but damn they do such a beautiful job showing the process of creating these portraits. I really wish I knew who was doing the drawing when they show close-ups of the hands. Beautiful! And who did the paintings that are part of the series. Whoever they are, fantastic job! Do they show in the credits? Sorry, I can't read Mandarin.
The friendship that develops between the 2 MLs is good, after a rocky start. A spoilery bit: it's sad to know that the age-progression drawing basically ruined/changed both of their lives forever. I find it hard to believe that Shen Yi forgives the cop for the way he blamed him and treated him and ruined his life. A promising young artist has his creative life forever cut short 😢
The different cases are interesting, strange, and somewhat twisted. The methods used to solve the cases may require you to drop your logical thinking for a bit but I really love how they show the process. Being able to draw someone's portrait from a blurry partial side view of a masked person? Hmm, nice skills?
The ending credit song is just so gorgeous and dark and emotional. It perfectly fits the series. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RXOsDojKP0k
I cannot wait for Season 2!
Was this review helpful to you?
