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The worst adaptation and unbearable to watch
I have read the novel and watched the 1984, 1998, 2001, 2008 and 2014 version. I really don't mind if an adaptation takes a different direction, as long as it is still enjoyable. With this one, the over-the-top acting, comedic soap opera with repeating silly music on the background, the slow pacing and draggy on some parts and rush in other parts, it was really, really unbearable to watch.I like the DOMD/Deer and the Cauldron for its history and political suspense in it, that I don't get in this version. Wei Xiaobao interaction with Chen Jinnan was really quick as if it was not important. I get it they want to make it more slapstick comedy, not satire political dark humor like the book, which is fine. The Dicky Cheung version 2001 took similar route with added comedy tone and liberation of the screenplay, but it was still enjoyable, and the acting was superb. This one, the opposite!
They introduced Princess Jian Ning earlier than in the novel, AND there were a lot of scenes of her that was really draggy, unnecessary for character development and annoying that it took screen time of other important characters. The main actor as Wei Xiaobao was physically fit to the novel's description. Wei Xiaobao in the novel is average looking and short. Too bad, his acting was really low quality. And... what is it with the mainland recent production cannot get proper age actors to play older characters? Ho Daifu was young, Empress Dowager was young. They both are supposed to be intimidating characters but nope, they were just young folks. Arrgh, the only one who seemed to know to act is the actor who played Kang Xi. But again, he also suffered from mediocre screenplay.
If you like slapstick comedy with over-the-top acting and illogical screenplay and mediocre production, this one is for you.
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The best version of Juedai Shuangjiao!
I read the novel and watched the 1979 Shek Sau version, 1986 Tony Leung version and Jimmy Lin and Dicky Cheung version. Each are good in their own way, but nothing as complete as this Handsome Siblings 2020. I am so glad there is finally a modern remake that is not merely "idol pop drama" and eye candy soap opera-like. This version maintains the wuxia elements proportionally. Yes, the actors who played the twins are pretty boys, modern idols, but hey, they CAN act! Xiao Yuer - The actor really showed a wide range of emotions and character development of Jiang Xiao Yu. Not to mention the original music scores from the Roc Chen really added wuxia feel to this version. Tay Ping Hui as Yan Nan Thian is also a strong point. The only one that I thought a little bit miscast is Sou Ying, it doesn't really reflect the independent, super smart and calculating woman like in the novel. Nevertheless, everything else is quite faithful to the original novel.Was this review helpful to you?
Fast paced, no filler, superb acting and true to the novel
Every time I watch the new version of Deer and the Cauldron/Duke of Mount Deer, I always come back to this version because it is the best so far. I have read the novel and the reason why I think this old TVB classic is still the best version, is not for the sake of nostalgia. Yes, it has Andy Lau and Tony Leung, the veteran actors that even in their early career already showed superior, subtle acting. Yes, it is true to the novel. But the acting and the faithfulness to the novel are not the only reasons.I have watched the latest versions 2014 and 2021, which I found so hard to keep me interested like this 1984 version. 1984 version kept me engaged from the beginning and could not stop watching. The pace is just perfect. No unnecessary filler scenes. The political tensions, mystery and suspense built up nicely alongside the dark comedy. The chemistry between the characters is unbelievably perfect. This version doesn't try to "whitewash" Wei Xiaobao character. Tony Leung portrayed WXB just like in the novel: cunning, sly, opportunist. Yet, WXB is loyal to friends and capable to experience genuine feeling of sadness, betrayed and he frequently threw lots of reflective and philosophical questions about revenge, loyalty, freedom. Historical characters like Oboi, the Empress Dowager, Chen Jinnan and Wu Sangui were also supported by perfect casts and acting. I wish there are more recent dramas that keep me engaged like the Duke of Mount Deer 1984.
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