Two episodes in and its really good, superb acting script is top notch, wish the sub titles stayed on for just another two seconds but that's my problem.
Finished it and have mixed emotions it might have been to complicated of a script for me I'm not Asian so i would get lost with the names not being able to connect them to the characters i think i got the just of the story which is disturbing, sad and beautiful, its worth finishing the ending isn't foolish and gives closure on the lives in the show for the most part.
25 Reviews
Not Exhilarating but Satisfying.. Deep!!!! If you go the distance..
Comphunk3 May 2020
This is more than a Police Drama or a whodunit. The emotions run high with the protagonist having Asperger's. The only problem is the length. They should have edited it to finish in 6 Episodes. I expected a typical serial killer show, was disappointed after 3 eps. But the show really touches your emotional chords in last 2 eps.
It's really deep.. Not exhilarating but satisfying..
Definitely worth a view .. for these reasons
A_Different_Drummer26 November 2020
Just as in the west (THE GOOD DOCTOR) lead characters who are "on the spectrum" is also a popular trope. Solid production values mesh with aggressive performances to form a very entertaining series. Some things to note: (1) some of the english subtitles are slightly off. This is because in China it is common to work as a professional translator but still have problems with English idioms; (2) rare in a TV series, time at the end of each episode is allotted to the producers to explain how the series was shot; and (3) Italian-Asian star Wei-Ning Hsu has one of the most exotic "looks" in the industry and will not go un-noticed by male viewers.
Possibliy 2020 Taiwan Drama of the Year
jimmylikesdonuts5 May 2020
The plot is well written on both the detective aspect and the emotional side. As the story unveils, audience can preceive the mental development of the main characters. The drama spent a reasonable amount of scene to shape the personalities, allowing us to connect with them. Not to mention Chang's excellent performance on portrating a grown up with Asperger's syndrome.
Everything are well balanced. Worth subscribing for Netflix just because of this!
Everything are well balanced. Worth subscribing for Netflix just because of this!
Definitely worth watching!
mayayavas18 May 2020
It's a dark and exciting series. They did a great job on delivering emotional scenes and the acting skills were pretty good. Sometimes it was a bit difficult to follow and at times the story was going too slow but overall I think it's interesting and worth watching!!!
I Need More
Isle197018 June 2020
Was hooked 1st episode. The characters draw you in and you can't help but be interested, in them and the plot unfolding around and through them. I have liked Asian films\series for some time now, but I did have to roll some scenes back a few times, (literally just a few), to catch up and keep the names straight; but that was far outweighed by the times I rolled it back just to really catch the expressions and emotions being portrayed. Such fine acting from so many people. Each main character had their moments to express their story so well - I was stunned by the sheer amount of talent and the masterful directing & production throughout. How I wish our crime dramas were done this way in the States. I will admit that there were some laggy moments in a couple of the middle episodes, but I implore you to continue watching to the end. The sum total is so thoroughly amazing, enlightening, thoughtful, beautiful, humbling and real, that I could not bring myself to give it anything less than a 10. I'm hoping with all I've got that they bring this back for a second season.
Yeah, ok
sloppydope28 May 2020
Warning: Spoilers
Alright, let me get this straight...
1) No lie, the first time I saw the synopsis of this movie, it was interesting because I'm really following crime-murder mysteries genre. So I watch the whole series, and then bam. But, I was pretty curious after that, definitely something inspires this series somewhere in thousands of piles Hollywood crime-murder movies/tv-series with that genre. Well, coincidentally this tv-series is in the same land as Sherlock (tv-series starred by Benedict Cumberbatch) cus both of them available in Netflix. So, couple weeks later I watched first episode of Sherlock, then my mind blows how the episode's plot so similar to this series's whole plot. Well, I'm not the type of guy who complains everything has to be original or anything like that, but atleast the director or the writer give a proper shoutout to Sherlock tho, with the main plot they have taken from it. (I've watched the whole interview after the movie ends so chill out if you get mad) That I guess some minus point because they haven't said anything about Sherlock and always bolding out their statement with how they wrote the plot seriously with people that had mental ilnessess and suicidal.
2) I hate the fact that the main protagonist, the surgery guy, didn't have enough screen why he has this "emotionless syndrome" that he has suffered since the beginning, even tho the director or the writer had explained in the interview. That kinda step me back for a bit, because this surgery guy only had a little character development if you go blind without knowing what he suffered with. (without watching the interview too)
3) The Li Ya-chun lady was great, but her character development with the execution in the end is not that fully finished after she talked with the reporter lady. They should give her little enough screen with what happened to her after she talked to the reporter lady. Will she be in the dilemma after what she did to those "people", fighting her own state of mind or just let it be like crazy? That would be excellent. It's just a half-baked character at the end for a plot device.
4) Other than that, all of them great. The acting, the special effect, the drama aspect.
That's it. My fingers need to sleep
1) No lie, the first time I saw the synopsis of this movie, it was interesting because I'm really following crime-murder mysteries genre. So I watch the whole series, and then bam. But, I was pretty curious after that, definitely something inspires this series somewhere in thousands of piles Hollywood crime-murder movies/tv-series with that genre. Well, coincidentally this tv-series is in the same land as Sherlock (tv-series starred by Benedict Cumberbatch) cus both of them available in Netflix. So, couple weeks later I watched first episode of Sherlock, then my mind blows how the episode's plot so similar to this series's whole plot. Well, I'm not the type of guy who complains everything has to be original or anything like that, but atleast the director or the writer give a proper shoutout to Sherlock tho, with the main plot they have taken from it. (I've watched the whole interview after the movie ends so chill out if you get mad) That I guess some minus point because they haven't said anything about Sherlock and always bolding out their statement with how they wrote the plot seriously with people that had mental ilnessess and suicidal.
2) I hate the fact that the main protagonist, the surgery guy, didn't have enough screen why he has this "emotionless syndrome" that he has suffered since the beginning, even tho the director or the writer had explained in the interview. That kinda step me back for a bit, because this surgery guy only had a little character development if you go blind without knowing what he suffered with. (without watching the interview too)
3) The Li Ya-chun lady was great, but her character development with the execution in the end is not that fully finished after she talked with the reporter lady. They should give her little enough screen with what happened to her after she talked to the reporter lady. Will she be in the dilemma after what she did to those "people", fighting her own state of mind or just let it be like crazy? That would be excellent. It's just a half-baked character at the end for a plot device.
4) Other than that, all of them great. The acting, the special effect, the drama aspect.
That's it. My fingers need to sleep
It totally blew me away
ScGreen208 May 2020
Watching the first 10 minutes of 1st episode, I knew I've struck gold.
What's so different about it? It relies on shots angle, facial expressions and ambiance to induce the atmosphere. None of those annoying background music.
My God, the story, the camera shots, the scenes, the acting are all top notch.
And what makes this series so lovely is that it depicts normal people with real life problems. None of those over-the-top, bigger than life, over dramatic characters seen in other movies. If only more TV series were made like this.
What's so different about it? It relies on shots angle, facial expressions and ambiance to induce the atmosphere. None of those annoying background music.
My God, the story, the camera shots, the scenes, the acting are all top notch.
And what makes this series so lovely is that it depicts normal people with real life problems. None of those over-the-top, bigger than life, over dramatic characters seen in other movies. If only more TV series were made like this.
Could be better
RaidahTan18 May 2020
Mediocre storyline. The actors were good, but the tempo of the drama is too slow, and the way they construct the stories were quite similar to one another. Didn't make it to the last episode.
P/s: the props in the series were exceptional and carefully made.
The best of serial killers sereis 2020 Original Netflix Must Watch!!!
folk_egm2 May 2020
The investigative series created very carefully in every detail. Various design productions Very realistic. Delve into the forensic laboratory investigation. Search back to the victim's life with a profound Asian philosophy of life. This is masterpiece of Taiwan, But every nation can deep into the spirit of the story.
Asperger's Disorder is Master key of story. When you finish watching it, you will understand why the protagonist is like this.
Asperger's Disorder is Master key of story. When you finish watching it, you will understand why the protagonist is like this.
Who is the victim ?
alaningle713 May 2023
A brilliant forensic detective with Asperger's Fang Yi Ren (Joseph Chang) finds out his estranged daughter is linked with a series of gruesome serial killings and with the help of journalist played by Ann Hsu tries to discover the truth. The detective is a stickler for making sure everything is correct but hides evidence when he discovers his daughters involvement. It is well acted and being only 8 episodes still manages to develop each character. The detective needs to locate his daughter to find the truth and risks his entire career to do this, but he is also faced with his inability to read human emotion and this causes him problems in getting to the truth.
A medicine to the world
ks-605007 May 2020
Cuz of covid19 makes me watch lots of drama these days. Korea drama best in revenge, romance. Thailand is funny and real life. Taiwan drama is quality content and bring some contemplation. After "world between us", another master piece have been produced from Taiwan. Series of killing looks like what it's, there's a serial killer behind. Its true, the serial killers are people around the victims. For the storyline, it's not only entertaining and suspicious, it's just so real of what the society is. An extend of "world between us" but not a copycat. For the acting side, Zhang acting really deserves a nomination. Its very different from his previous styles and to a new level in this drama. Again, the best part is really brings us some rethink of what the society sickness nowadays. It's not only a drama, a healing medicine in order to change
Devastatingly beautiful
patygbalutel26 May 2020
This is not the typical detective/crime tv show. It grasps your attention from the first episode -- impressive plot, realistic characters and a beautiful and very needed message nowadays: life is worth living. There is always hope.
Tackles important subjects, such as suicide. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who needs a reminder that you may find happiness and a reason to live even in the darkest moments.
Pretty Close to Perfect
gjenevieve10 September 2020
This is an amazing series. Great acting. Good story line. Keeps you on the edge of your seat. One of the great things is what comes at the end of each episode. You have to watch the credits and then there is a short preview of what is coming next. However, after you get through all of that, they have a deeper look into the series. Very fascinating and informative. It helps explain how they came up with the concept, what they use to help make it so real, etc. I highly recommend watching this series and then making sure you watch the information after the credits.
The Victims' Game
Tweekums3 October 2022
Following the discovery of a body in a bath of acid one of the main leads is CCTV footage of a mystery woman going to and from the area at the time of the death. One forensic detective, Fang Yi-Jen, immediately recognises her; she is his estranged daughter! He does not reveal this to his colleagues; as it is he is somewhat unpopular with them as he has Asperger's Syndrome so often comes across as rude. Soon another body is found; this time the victim has been immolated. Fang is certain that despite the differences the cases are connected. As more victims appear a link is established but that doesn't mean the case will be solved easily. In his desire to find his daughter and solve the case Feng establishes a working relationship with Hsu Hai-Yin, a reporter who's methods some might consider unethical.
I really enjoyed the Taiwanese drama. The characters are interesting; especially Fang. He might not be the first TV detective with Asperger's but that doesn't make him unoriginal. Joseph Chang really impresses in the role. Almost as interesting is reporter Hsu Hai-Yin; her methods of securing an interview are amusing in their inappropriateness. Hsu Wei-ning is a lot of fun in this role. The deaths are fairly grisly even if we only see the aftermath. There is a nice twist fairly early on which changes people's view of the nature of the crime and gives a hint to the identity of later potential victims. The series is very well shot; everything looks great. I was glad to hear that a second season is planned; I'll certainly be watching. Overall I'd definitely recommend this to fans of crime drama.
These comments are based on watching the series in Mandarin with English subtitles.
I really enjoyed the Taiwanese drama. The characters are interesting; especially Fang. He might not be the first TV detective with Asperger's but that doesn't make him unoriginal. Joseph Chang really impresses in the role. Almost as interesting is reporter Hsu Hai-Yin; her methods of securing an interview are amusing in their inappropriateness. Hsu Wei-ning is a lot of fun in this role. The deaths are fairly grisly even if we only see the aftermath. There is a nice twist fairly early on which changes people's view of the nature of the crime and gives a hint to the identity of later potential victims. The series is very well shot; everything looks great. I was glad to hear that a second season is planned; I'll certainly be watching. Overall I'd definitely recommend this to fans of crime drama.
These comments are based on watching the series in Mandarin with English subtitles.
Hope is the answer
baunacholi-8615927 May 2020
Separates itself quickly from other whodunit's as it reveals more and more layers and twists as the show progresses up to point it actually becomes redundant who killed them all - What a bold, smart and completely unexpected move! From here, the victims game becomes something way more substantial. It starts to get truly emotional, faceted and deeply psychological. An intelligent concept with an authentic and very different sight on the things around us and in our life which truly matter. Can't think of any other show or movie tackling such a sensitive topic with both empathy and tension.
Too slow... lose interest
nthang-7699321 May 2020
Thrilling and touching. A story that goes beyond crime.
andreagama-5668411 June 2020
It's a sensitive and deep show with many undertones. Each scene has sentiment and is delivered delicately and respectfully. It never goes over the top to display emotion and the plot is sound. The story is built in a understandable sequence and in a verisimilar way.
The best thing about the show is the characters development and the in-depth exploration of emotions, motivation and relationships of the characters. It is exciting without having to rely only on the cliff-hanger of "who did it", but also on the way each person's story relate to each other and how they came to be. It is incidentally a story about people and not about crime.
The show manages to sustain fairly well the suspense and incite curiosity, despite not being as fast paced as investigation dramas from the US. In the mid episodes the plot drags a little, but being an only 8 episode series it doesn't take away from the experience.
The last episode is absolutely beautiful in every way: acting, imagery, soundtrack and message. By the end, the show conveys an optimistic perspective on a life worth living that embraces sadness, doubt, hurt and forgiveness.
The best thing about the show is the characters development and the in-depth exploration of emotions, motivation and relationships of the characters. It is exciting without having to rely only on the cliff-hanger of "who did it", but also on the way each person's story relate to each other and how they came to be. It is incidentally a story about people and not about crime.
The show manages to sustain fairly well the suspense and incite curiosity, despite not being as fast paced as investigation dramas from the US. In the mid episodes the plot drags a little, but being an only 8 episode series it doesn't take away from the experience.
The last episode is absolutely beautiful in every way: acting, imagery, soundtrack and message. By the end, the show conveys an optimistic perspective on a life worth living that embraces sadness, doubt, hurt and forgiveness.
VICTIM'S GAME: A Compelling Crime Drama
Jinxxa_Wolf21 October 2023
VICTIMS'S GAME is a super dark and compelling Taiwanese crime drama that spans only 8 episodes. I can only hope there will be future seasons coming, (as hinted in the series) as this was certainly an exceptionally great drama series and one to remember. The characters were highly memorable and well acted. The plot engrossing and suspenseful. Great story and slow boiling plot that packs hard punches and deals with very painful subject matter, in a very tasteful way, all things considered. Dark and gritty, to be sure.
The main male lead, brilliant Fan Yi-Jen, (remarkably played by Hsiao-chaun Chang) is a forensic detective with ASD (Autism/Aspergers) and is compelled to investigate a specific case of serial killings with a strange connection to someone linked to him. Meanwhile, ambitious journalist Hsu Hai-Yin (playered by the charming Wei-Ning Hsu) is also drawn into to investigated the strange string of murders, at first for her ambitions but then for more compelling motives. The two form an unlikely alliance and this unique relationship a very good boost to the series. They are very likeable characters and gradually grew on me.
Both characters are excellently acted, the actors did a great job bringing the two characters to life and cementing them in my mind. I could easily empathize with them, quirky and eccentric as they were. The character development was very strong and well done in this series. I'd happily watch more of Victim's Game, and Taiwanese crime drama's like this in the future. Although this was a really dark series with highly graphic depictions of murder victims, it was also really great, mysterious and compelling. Although a bit slower paced it was definitely worth the watch.
The main male lead, brilliant Fan Yi-Jen, (remarkably played by Hsiao-chaun Chang) is a forensic detective with ASD (Autism/Aspergers) and is compelled to investigate a specific case of serial killings with a strange connection to someone linked to him. Meanwhile, ambitious journalist Hsu Hai-Yin (playered by the charming Wei-Ning Hsu) is also drawn into to investigated the strange string of murders, at first for her ambitions but then for more compelling motives. The two form an unlikely alliance and this unique relationship a very good boost to the series. They are very likeable characters and gradually grew on me.
Both characters are excellently acted, the actors did a great job bringing the two characters to life and cementing them in my mind. I could easily empathize with them, quirky and eccentric as they were. The character development was very strong and well done in this series. I'd happily watch more of Victim's Game, and Taiwanese crime drama's like this in the future. Although this was a really dark series with highly graphic depictions of murder victims, it was also really great, mysterious and compelling. Although a bit slower paced it was definitely worth the watch.
Madly Entertaining
Glue2Screen20 May 2021
This is an extremely captivating mystery packed crime shies that carries a heavy punch in subject matter.
Show did a great job in mixing experienced-long-time actor/actress to rarely seen newcomers. Never at any point did I felt any of the acting was over dramatic or fake. It all felt so natural.
The story is well knit and full of mystery. Kept me engaged from the first minute. Each character has their own back story and each 'evidence' is slowly revealed to the audience with delicacy.
Hats off to the art team with all the details put into all the paperwork, photos, bodies and props. This show does rely heavily on these elements, so worth nothing.
I recommend this series, but it isn't for the weak of heart. There are some graphic scenes and does deal with the matter of death. If you enjoy mystery and crime solving with a twist--as well as can handle heavier subject matter--give this a shot.
Show did a great job in mixing experienced-long-time actor/actress to rarely seen newcomers. Never at any point did I felt any of the acting was over dramatic or fake. It all felt so natural.
The story is well knit and full of mystery. Kept me engaged from the first minute. Each character has their own back story and each 'evidence' is slowly revealed to the audience with delicacy.
Hats off to the art team with all the details put into all the paperwork, photos, bodies and props. This show does rely heavily on these elements, so worth nothing.
I recommend this series, but it isn't for the weak of heart. There are some graphic scenes and does deal with the matter of death. If you enjoy mystery and crime solving with a twist--as well as can handle heavier subject matter--give this a shot.
Mastermind of all was the weakest character written and acted
ankitanabar28 July 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Great series of only 8 episodes. Only flaw was person who was shown as mastermind of all murders. That character should have been written strong also actor playing that role looked more foolish than convincing to be a mastermind of serial killing.
Much more than I bargained for
insanehorseback14 May 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I thought I was watching a Taiwanese version of CSI, maybe some realistic crime TV, or even a serial killer.
It turns out to be totally different from what I expected. I wouldn't have started watching if I knew what it's about. I'm not into serial tragedy. But once I started, I watched the whole season one non-stop. The story is pretty original.
Netflix gives us an opportunity to compare international TV. The Taiwanese vs Chinese/Korean series is a bit like UK vs US. This series doesn't use flashy showoff locations but slump buildings. It doesn't use pretty young actors. It not a high dollar investment. There's not a lot of A-list actors and not a lot of extras.
The story and script is good. Directing is decent. The lead actors are doing pretty well. And the underwhelming extras also seem to do their job well.
Spoiler follows.
It could have been made by PBS. It condenses so many public do good services in one series - LGBT, metal disability, depression, suicide. The stories involving children got to me most.
Everybody is a tragedy. Even the investigating team lost a member but couldn't convict the killer.
It turns out to be totally different from what I expected. I wouldn't have started watching if I knew what it's about. I'm not into serial tragedy. But once I started, I watched the whole season one non-stop. The story is pretty original.
Netflix gives us an opportunity to compare international TV. The Taiwanese vs Chinese/Korean series is a bit like UK vs US. This series doesn't use flashy showoff locations but slump buildings. It doesn't use pretty young actors. It not a high dollar investment. There's not a lot of A-list actors and not a lot of extras.
The story and script is good. Directing is decent. The lead actors are doing pretty well. And the underwhelming extras also seem to do their job well.
Spoiler follows.
It could have been made by PBS. It condenses so many public do good services in one series - LGBT, metal disability, depression, suicide. The stories involving children got to me most.
Everybody is a tragedy. Even the investigating team lost a member but couldn't convict the killer.
Thrilling and heartfelt serie
sufukndh8 February 2021
My boyfriend and I watched this serie in only two days, therefore doesn't take much to know that we absolutely loved it. The plot is very well written and detailed and every episode keeps you wandering what's coming next. The character's' background are explained in a very original way and portrayed excellently by the actors. This serie includes thriller, mystery, love, friendship and the daily struggle that we can all face daily.
The only downside is there are plenty of names and follow up that need to be read carefully and you need to remember the clues and hints given to put together all the pieces of the story, therefore I'd not recommend this serie for people with low deficiency attention.
Ps. Just a question for the casting directors, if you choose a western/Taiwanese actress that obviously looks western, at least cast the respective actors that can resemble her in her young portrayal! How can the young Asian child actress that plays the same character become a westerner looking woman in her adulthood???? No sense in this choice.
The only downside is there are plenty of names and follow up that need to be read carefully and you need to remember the clues and hints given to put together all the pieces of the story, therefore I'd not recommend this serie for people with low deficiency attention.
Ps. Just a question for the casting directors, if you choose a western/Taiwanese actress that obviously looks western, at least cast the respective actors that can resemble her in her young portrayal! How can the young Asian child actress that plays the same character become a westerner looking woman in her adulthood???? No sense in this choice.
See also
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