The Popular 'Ghost Blows Out the Light' Series: Adventure, Suspense, and Romance in 'South Sea Tomb'
The "Ghost Blows Out the Light" series is considered popular in the web drama market. From works such as "Dragon Ridge Maze" and "Yunnan Insect Valley," we can see the combination of adventure and suspense, which brings about a fluctuating plot tension. In "South Sea Tomb," the main storyline introduces a romantic element, as Hu Ba Yi and Xue Liyang finally come together.
However, things are not as they seem. As the plot progresses, it is nearing its conclusion, and unexpectedly, there is even a special preview of the finale. After watching this part of the content, many people find it unsatisfactory. For example, the crude designs: when Hu Ba Yi and Ruan Hei descend underwater in a diving bell, as soon as they enter the water, a coral reef appears, displaying a colorful underwater world with various fish happily swimming around, creating a joyful atmosphere.
But then, as the diving bell submerges several tens of meters, the appearance of the coral reef remains unchanged and still looks like "plastic products." When the "dragon" drags this "ghost ship" and speeds through the water, eventually flying into the sky, it can only be described as soaring into the clouds. These few scenes look far from realistic. Not to mention the lack of visual impact, Hu Ba Yi and Xue Liyang fall from the sky and eventually land back in the water, surrounded by the shattered remains of the "ghost ship."
At this point, the emotional storyline becomes too prominent, reducing the suspense. Have you noticed that the pacing design of "South Sea Tomb" is quite interesting? The early part of the plot is relatively slow, taking almost two episodes to explain the background of the events and why Hu Ba Yi and others are searching for the Qin Emperor's Mirror in the Coral Spiral.
Pan Yue Ming's acting is top-notch and he portrays the character of Hu Ba Yi effortlessly. At the beginning of the story, when Xue Liyang blames Hu Ba Yi for agreeing to Professor Chen's request to go to the Coral Spiral, he immediately softens his attitude upon seeing his girlfriend angry. With her presence, Hu Ba Yi is noticeably much gentler.
On the way to the Coral Spiral, no matter what dangerous situation they face, Hu Ba Yi always protects Xue Liyang behind him, giving the impression that their relationship is strong. As a suspenseful adventure drama, what the audience wants is an atmospheric experience, not just a display of affection. This aspect could be appropriately reduced. Due to time constraints, "South Sea Tomb" does not provide clear explanations for many subplots, and there may not be another installment.
For example, helmsman Ruan Hei, who was expected to play a significant role throughout the story, unexpectedly dies from a shark bite, which is quite a clichéd way to exit the storyline. Judging from the current criticisms, the ending of "South Sea Tomb" is indeed somewhat outrageous, with multiple characters exiting, confusing logic, and an overly emphasized romantic plotline.
Do you think the ending lives up to expectations?