Outsiders, assemble
I am part of the minority that like this second adaptation. The story theme of this story is tighter with only 13 episodes.
This entire adaptation revolves around Chen Duo - her origin, her upbringing, her intention, and her wants. At first, I thought it’s another character arc of a possible ally. Turns out Chen Duo’s role has greater meaning and is the necessary stepping stone to progress the story for future adaptations, if they continue with it.
This story arc also has the working together camaraderie that I feel was lacking in Season 1. The NDT Express Operatives were all one of its kind - benefitting of the arrogance and pride of a solo “Xia Ke” (martial artist / superhero). Getting them to work together needs a big enough common threat that makes them feel working together is one plus one bigger than two; and a reason that touched with their guarded cold heart because Chen Duo’s story reminded them of themselves. This is my kind of story.
The greater mystery surrounding the eight supreme skill and greater villain behind the curtain remain a mystery. The story is also getting more complex, seeming to involve worlds outside of Earth. However, for the story of Chen Duo, it got an appropriate resolution in this second season adaptation. The philosophical stance between the main villain of this season, Ma Xian Hong of wanting “equality” and the NDT Express Operatives who believed that power needs to be rightfully earned are also good food for thought.
If season 1 has the main duo, Peng Yu Chang and Wang Ying Lu, well casted, we have great addition in season 2. Vicki Chen and Yan Yi Kuan are great as Chen Duo and Yan Yi Kuan. I like the other NDT Express Operatives too.
Comparatively, season 2 is a more somber story, and thus, lack the slapstick comedy that others probably like more in season 1, given Chen Duo has a sad and pitiful origin story. In fact, season 2 feels like it can be a standalone story on its own. While we are still unsure what’s install in the upcoming season, I like how season 2 delves deeper into the motivation of why and what Outsiders are fighting for from another lens, through another character. And they possibly found allies after fighting solo for a long while.
This entire adaptation revolves around Chen Duo - her origin, her upbringing, her intention, and her wants. At first, I thought it’s another character arc of a possible ally. Turns out Chen Duo’s role has greater meaning and is the necessary stepping stone to progress the story for future adaptations, if they continue with it.
This story arc also has the working together camaraderie that I feel was lacking in Season 1. The NDT Express Operatives were all one of its kind - benefitting of the arrogance and pride of a solo “Xia Ke” (martial artist / superhero). Getting them to work together needs a big enough common threat that makes them feel working together is one plus one bigger than two; and a reason that touched with their guarded cold heart because Chen Duo’s story reminded them of themselves. This is my kind of story.
The greater mystery surrounding the eight supreme skill and greater villain behind the curtain remain a mystery. The story is also getting more complex, seeming to involve worlds outside of Earth. However, for the story of Chen Duo, it got an appropriate resolution in this second season adaptation. The philosophical stance between the main villain of this season, Ma Xian Hong of wanting “equality” and the NDT Express Operatives who believed that power needs to be rightfully earned are also good food for thought.
If season 1 has the main duo, Peng Yu Chang and Wang Ying Lu, well casted, we have great addition in season 2. Vicki Chen and Yan Yi Kuan are great as Chen Duo and Yan Yi Kuan. I like the other NDT Express Operatives too.
Comparatively, season 2 is a more somber story, and thus, lack the slapstick comedy that others probably like more in season 1, given Chen Duo has a sad and pitiful origin story. In fact, season 2 feels like it can be a standalone story on its own. While we are still unsure what’s install in the upcoming season, I like how season 2 delves deeper into the motivation of why and what Outsiders are fighting for from another lens, through another character. And they possibly found allies after fighting solo for a long while.
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