redshoe1000

this is a mid-length psychological dark comedy thriller crime drama (no, really, what exactly is this?) that reads like a film student's last work before graduation, in the form of a love letter to film noir and its German expressionist roots. at times, the cinematography is thoroughly distracting, especially when the framing of characters is so obvious as to lean towards the ridiculous or the low-key lighting tips over into what looks like a stage spotlight with erratic wiring.

but this distraction is actually an asset. in a series which focuses on flawed individuals and a system designed to exclude them if they can't buy their way in, every inappropriate line, peculiar frame or flickering light reminds us just how broken and messed up this universe, and our own, is.

the cast plays into this vision incredibly well. Maggie Huang, who I'd previously only seen in a production I consider subpar, proved to be a revelation in a more thoughtful work. Wang Duo was less of a surprise and there were moments when he almost seemed to enjoy himself too much, but he truly showed why this type of role is in his remit. Qin Junjie felt somewhat underutilised through much of the show despite his screen time but I can't fault his performance.

while I know there isn't much to go on in this review if you are deciding whether to watch this, here is my recommendation. if you like slowburn thrillers, slightly absurd dark humour, damaged psychology, arthouse cinema, it's well worth the time. it's likely not for everyone but where it works, it really does. I have no regrets.