This classic sports manga/anime has been adapted a few times already, yet none of them gained international recognition as much as other live adaptations had. Admittedly, it is difficult to translate on screen as it involves gravity (and logic) defying tennis techniques and matches and a slapstick comedy that requires emotionally-exaggerated characters; in short, overacting.
But this, this made an exception. The Prince of Tennis closely followed the manga (both characterizations and story arcs) and made all the elements work. It perfectly balanced the caricatures, the emotions, the team work, the self-growth, and most importantly, the friendships. The tennis competitions, while extremely unbelievable, were fun and intense. Those who watch sports anime like Prince of Tennis and Haikyuu would know what I am talking about. One game could drag for more than an episode, yet it would not affect our focus and emotional investment; in fact, it only heightens it.
I was one of those who were skeptical with the 40 episode count but I was just greedy by the end. From regional championships to national championships—I wanted it all. I laughed, I cheered, I cried, and I loved. I loved all the members, I loved all the teams, and I especially loved all the friendships. I know a second season is a far long shot but this does not take away that this is a perfect 10 in my list. Highly recommended!
PSA for those looking for real kisses: So majority of the kisses are just pecks or lip smacking BUT there is a real one. He was literally devouring her but it was all good as it was nicely reciprocated 😉
The drama that had me giggling, screaming, kicking my feet - and reliving high school. The is a drama that had me, someone who experienced a rather simple and uneventful but contented teenage years, feeling represented. No social, economic, or self issues. No angst. No toxicity. This is THE epitome of a youth drama.
Not to mention, THE perfect final episode. Not rushed, not slow, and not just fluff. A perfect goodbye not just for the drama itself, but also to the characters and their youth.
It was not a surprise for me, his acting ability is underrated, they just don't challenge him enough and give…
Oh yeah, was not surprised with his acting ability. I was rather (pleasantly) surprised that he got to show more with this role. I just didn’t expect his character to go down that route.
I’ve been saying that for years since they are my favorites and they both are age-compatible (1989, 1988), good friends (who have done films and editorial photoshoots together), and quite underrated with the international audience. Just imagine my excitement and eventual disappointment when I found out and saw the Shadow Play (2018) wherein the two were the main leads.
They show their acting chops better in films, so I do wish they would work again - hopefully in a romance melodrama.
Nagano Mei and Suzuka Kyoka delivered fantastic performances and were the stars of the show with no doubt, but Nakagawa Taishi was such a pleasant surprise with his mental breakdown!
Oh, Lord. Sang Zhi isn’t the only one who is going to have a heart attack over Jiaxu’s actions. He’s so cheeky and flirty and shameless. And he’s not even actively pursuing her yet. I don’t know how I’ll survive once that starts - or worse, when he becomes a full on boyfriend. Please pray for Sang Zhi and my heart. Thank you.
The release date? They haven't started shooting it yet. The expected release date is 2025, at best the end of…
Joy of Life 2 has officially released the character posters and announced the start of filming today, May 10, 2023.
Zhang Ruoyun (Fan Xian), Li Qin (Lin Wan Er), Chen Daoming (Emperor), and Wu Gang (Chen Pingping) are confirmed to return. And majority of the cast is also back.
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But this, this made an exception. The Prince of Tennis closely followed the manga (both characterizations and story arcs) and made all the elements work. It perfectly balanced the caricatures, the emotions, the team work, the self-growth, and most importantly, the friendships. The tennis competitions, while extremely unbelievable, were fun and intense. Those who watch sports anime like Prince of Tennis and Haikyuu would know what I am talking about. One game could drag for more than an episode, yet it would not affect our focus and emotional investment; in fact, it only heightens it.
I was one of those who were skeptical with the 40 episode count but I was just greedy by the end. From regional championships to national championships—I wanted it all. I laughed, I cheered, I cried, and I loved. I loved all the members, I loved all the teams, and I especially loved all the friendships. I know a second season is a far long shot but this does not take away that this is a perfect 10 in my list. Highly recommended!
Not to mention, THE perfect final episode. Not rushed, not slow, and not just fluff. A perfect goodbye not just for the drama itself, but also to the characters and their youth.
Soul Mate is my favorite performance of hers in which she (and her co-star Zhou Dongyu) made a historic double win for Best Actress!
I’ve been saying that for years since they are my favorites and they both are age-compatible (1989, 1988), good friends (who have done films and editorial photoshoots together), and quite underrated with the international audience. Just imagine my excitement and eventual disappointment when I found out and saw the Shadow Play (2018) wherein the two were the main leads.
They show their acting chops better in films, so I do wish they would work again - hopefully in a romance melodrama.
To make things worse, he decided to CRASH the press conference of his victim “to apologize” in person, making the victim break down. https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4924971
Absolutely disgusting.
I loveeeed him as the Second Prince so much, he carried that role so damn good!
May 10, 2023.
Zhang Ruoyun (Fan Xian), Li Qin (Lin Wan Er), Chen Daoming (Emperor), and Wu Gang (Chen Pingping) are confirmed to return. And majority of the cast is also back.
Booting ceremony video: https://m.weibo.cn/status/4899865698242649#&video
More character posters: https://m.weibo.cn/status/4899870983062649?jumpfrom=weibocom#&gid=1&pid=1