1
This review may contain spoilers
Are they already dead?
The problem with Exclusive Love is that the formula being used is outdated. The storyline is actually interesting on paper, but the experience of it was not. Where was the drama? The well modulated tones of each actor seemed more of a sedative than an energizer. It does nothing to the performances that drag on for no apparent reason. 10 episodes in, and I was questioning why all this could not have wrapped up in 5. Granted, they're part of the funeral business, but they're not dead.
Moments are missed when the romance could have been enhanced but falls flat. TDZ asks WZ to lay on a table to show him how the dead, in their final moments before burial, are treated with respect. He proceeds to use oil to massage WZ. They're interrupted, and I happily say with good reason. It did not have the intensity needed and was as boring as paint drying. TDZ, who has feelings for WZ, was not affected by actually touching the pliant flesh being manipulated by his fingers.
The impending death of TDZ's brother brought no urgency to the story to push it further but more of the dull lackluster acting. On hearing that, Ian has feelings for him, WZ is shocked. I am truly grateful for the addition of Ian, as he is the only one who seems to still be in the land of the living. The second couple fared a little better but not by much. The subterfuge of JH inadvertently got YQ to the point of reaching the alter. A double wedding that fit well into the lifeless pattern of this series. The one aspect that really irked me was the living funeral. Why? Anyone will speak kind words when they know that you are dying. How everyone treats you in the course of your life is what should matter.
Taiwan used to produce intriguing storylines and enigmatic acting. Sadly, this is a reminder that everything changes and has an end. In this case, thankfully, also. 12 episodes was too much of this dribble. If after watching, your consensus is the same, don't say I didn't warn you.
Moments are missed when the romance could have been enhanced but falls flat. TDZ asks WZ to lay on a table to show him how the dead, in their final moments before burial, are treated with respect. He proceeds to use oil to massage WZ. They're interrupted, and I happily say with good reason. It did not have the intensity needed and was as boring as paint drying. TDZ, who has feelings for WZ, was not affected by actually touching the pliant flesh being manipulated by his fingers.
The impending death of TDZ's brother brought no urgency to the story to push it further but more of the dull lackluster acting. On hearing that, Ian has feelings for him, WZ is shocked. I am truly grateful for the addition of Ian, as he is the only one who seems to still be in the land of the living. The second couple fared a little better but not by much. The subterfuge of JH inadvertently got YQ to the point of reaching the alter. A double wedding that fit well into the lifeless pattern of this series. The one aspect that really irked me was the living funeral. Why? Anyone will speak kind words when they know that you are dying. How everyone treats you in the course of your life is what should matter.
Taiwan used to produce intriguing storylines and enigmatic acting. Sadly, this is a reminder that everything changes and has an end. In this case, thankfully, also. 12 episodes was too much of this dribble. If after watching, your consensus is the same, don't say I didn't warn you.
Was this review helpful to you?
