The love triangle was a bit corny, but what really worked here were the supporting cast members that helped establish the main character. Angeline Tan who plays Madame Lim is a definite standout here - really enjoyed this character. I had no idea about colonial Malacca and the significance of it being a gateway of sorts between east and western cultures - such a magical place that fit in with the theme of ghosts. Also very interesting as I had no idea that even today, the marrying of ghosts can take place in some provincial towns. A great watch.
31 Reviews
Entertaining but probably better for teens
borgolarici28 January 2020
This series has some strong points: the dead-living interactions and the interesting and refreshing historical setting (not Victorian England for once lol).
For a teen series it's perfect but a more adult public may not enjoy it to the fullest since the the plot doesn't always make sense and some characters are clearly meant to appeal younger people.
Average but okay
summer_rain00030 January 2020
I hope it was so much more. I don't know the book, but the trailer was promising. It never gets to suspenseful. I wasn't fully engaged to the characters. I wish I was.
I do like the beautiful sceneries of the countryside and the underworld was also well done. The wardrobes were also nice. The daring costumes from Tiang Ching, the colorful traditional Chinese "Qi Po" of the issued, Li Lan's black dressed and the sophisticated western dresses of Isabelle. There were some scenes which was with mr. Wong which were kinda scary.
Funny there was some Cantonese spoken in some scenes. Average series, don't expect too much, watch it for fun.
I do like the beautiful sceneries of the countryside and the underworld was also well done. The wardrobes were also nice. The daring costumes from Tiang Ching, the colorful traditional Chinese "Qi Po" of the issued, Li Lan's black dressed and the sophisticated western dresses of Isabelle. There were some scenes which was with mr. Wong which were kinda scary.
Funny there was some Cantonese spoken in some scenes. Average series, don't expect too much, watch it for fun.
Not like the book
jessicaamakens8 June 2022
I absolutely loved the book, so I was very excited to discover this was on Netflix. Unfortunately, it is nothing like the book, only small remnants of the amazing story. I was very disappointed, but watched it through to see how it ended. If you didn't read the book it is a very interesting fantasy show. For me, I wish it was truer to the book, but still didn't mind it as a stand alone.
Hidden Gem
jennifer-b-oneill23 March 2021
During another COVID weekend of solo Netflix and chilling, I watched the Korean horror series "Sweet Home," then the quirky "School Nurse Files." I thoroughly enjoyed these vastly different productions, and when "Ghost Bride" was recommended after each of them, I thought, "Why not?" I was unfamiliar with the source and mistakenly thought this was another Korean production.
I cannot comment as to the historical or linguistic accuracy of this show, but I'm glad I decided to watch it. Briefly, the heroine is the only daughter of a spice merchant. Her mother died when she was young, and her father raised her with the assistance of a nanny and cook. However, his business is suffering and his health begins to fail. When the wealthiest family in town presents her with the opportunity to marry the deceased heir, she must decide whether to accept the offer and save her family from destitution.
I binge-watched the entire series. From my point of view, it was an effective period piece set in the 1890s with exquisite costumes and settings. The cast is solid all around. The storyline has elements of romance, humor, drama, and, of course, the supernatural. While I would not describe it as particularly complex, not once did I think that teens were the target demographic. The insight into the religious and cultural beliefs in play was fascinating. I happily recommend.
I cannot comment as to the historical or linguistic accuracy of this show, but I'm glad I decided to watch it. Briefly, the heroine is the only daughter of a spice merchant. Her mother died when she was young, and her father raised her with the assistance of a nanny and cook. However, his business is suffering and his health begins to fail. When the wealthiest family in town presents her with the opportunity to marry the deceased heir, she must decide whether to accept the offer and save her family from destitution.
I binge-watched the entire series. From my point of view, it was an effective period piece set in the 1890s with exquisite costumes and settings. The cast is solid all around. The storyline has elements of romance, humor, drama, and, of course, the supernatural. While I would not describe it as particularly complex, not once did I think that teens were the target demographic. The insight into the religious and cultural beliefs in play was fascinating. I happily recommend.
Similar yet different
HanziTM29 March 2020
The Ghost Bride follows a very traditional and holistic kind of dramaturgy that leads its viewers into the deep jungle of cultural tradition.However, it follows a very similar path to Hollywood and does not add any difference in style & storytelling. In its merit, The Ghost Bride is a great show to watch is you are looking forward to improve your mandarin.
Unexpected but in a mediocre way.
CocoMunster26 January 2020
If you read the book, this adaptation will disappoint you. As someone from the Baba nyonya culture, I felt that the series isn't an authentic representation; though, I'll give them credit for attempting to include a few elements here and there. I tried to watch the series as something separate from its source material but I still don't enjoy it. The ending is so cheesy.
Ironically, the only one I'm rooting for in this series is Tian Ching.
Ironically, the only one I'm rooting for in this series is Tian Ching.
A Beautiful Series of Both Intimate and Fun
mariadebonne24 January 2020
Warning: Spoilers
I'm from Turkey, there were many elements that resembled the old Turkish beliefs, which reminded us of how many common stories we once shared. For example, going to the land of the dead and bringing the lost soul is a shaman to do according to our old beliefs. Other than that, the actors were incredibly sympathetic and the story was just as intimate. I also liked the responsive messages. I'm looking forward to the new season
Watchable, but the film is culturally inaccurate
angel-laroche27 January 2020
I'm only on episode 2, its a fun investigative show so far, I haven't been scared yet. Given that it is set in Malacca in the 1890s, it is culturally inaccurate.
The series is filmed Mandarin which would not have been commonly used at that time. The main family is portrayed as Peranakan, and most Peranakans would have spoken a mix of English, Malay and Hokkien (a Chinese dialect).
The series is filmed Mandarin which would not have been commonly used at that time. The main family is portrayed as Peranakan, and most Peranakans would have spoken a mix of English, Malay and Hokkien (a Chinese dialect).
Disappointing effort
Brit_in_Malaysia25 January 2020
A good start, which degenerates rapidly into a stream of vapid, third rate storytelling, missed dramatic opportunities, incoherent writing, waste of actors, and unconvincing production values. What a waste of a terrific opportunity to dive into the riches of this thread of Malaysia's past.
Two stars for effort such as selecting Chong Fatt Tze Mansion (up in Penang; I wonder what happened to locations in Melaka?) - and valiant efforts from some of the acting leads.
Hopefully, Netflix wakes up out of a Singapore-led content driven stupor and starts to tap the rich potential of pure Malaysian productions and talent.
Hoping for better things in the future.
No spoilers. The show does enough of that!
Two stars for effort such as selecting Chong Fatt Tze Mansion (up in Penang; I wonder what happened to locations in Melaka?) - and valiant efforts from some of the acting leads.
Hopefully, Netflix wakes up out of a Singapore-led content driven stupor and starts to tap the rich potential of pure Malaysian productions and talent.
Hoping for better things in the future.
No spoilers. The show does enough of that!
Interesting from the start to finish
ckrh-153703 February 2020
Building up for something amazing, hope for 2nd season
sisubalan14 August 2022
Actually its kinda good. Unexpected storyline and amazing line of casts that suits the characters attitude. Familiar with few of them. The main leads are highly talented and great acting skill. The sound effects are tolerably good. Few great action scenes, and adventurous. Big fan of the mystical lores but the cgi can be improved. The landscapes are extraordinary and very beautiful, a candy for the eyes. Recommended.
I watched it, but really out of desperation
kirbie218229 January 2020
I watched all 6 episodes, and I have to say I only stuck with it because I was desperate for anything to watch since I've watched everything there is. It was pretty silly, good for pre-teens maybe, but otherwise I wouldn't waste your time. Best to search for something better, but if you're desperate it's watchable, but it's pretty dense & just plain silly.
Not the best adaptation
brandy-cryts10 April 2020
I really enjoyed this book so it was a little disappointing to see it turned into a soap opera. Set, costumes, & effects really great and they did stick to the basics of the story but just seemed to make everyone a bit silly and ridiculous. This said, it did grow on me and that's mostly due to the actors.
Where are the credits for the rest of the cast??
sugarqueen24 February 2020
I quite like this series, even though it's very young. Because of the apparent target audience, I will only glancingly mention that mylar didn't exist during the period represented. On another note, I would, however, ask that the full cast be credited, as we are wracking our brains, trying to remember their names.
Watchable, but a very poor interpretation of the book
the_headspace19 September 2021
The novel is a serious, if not so well-written, look at love, traditional social structures, and SE Asian mythology with a large supernatural element ... while the Netflix show is a poor melodramatic interpretation with attempts at slapstick comedy and amateurish overacting (typical of many Malaysian and Singaporean TV shows). At times, it really can't seem to help itself. But it's still kind of watchable, if rather painfully at times. It would have been nice to have a more faithful version of the book.
Not that bad, could have done better
ahmadtobeng8 February 2020
For me, the storyline didnt get me interested, probably because I'm not a fan of Chinese myth/supernatural. But overall, for Malaysia's first Netflix original series, it's not that bad. I hope that this series will be the breakthrough for more original series from Netflix.
For editing and vfx, I think Netflix could do a lot better. I was hoping for a bigger Malacca 1890s background, but it was only a small set in the market that made Melaka visible in those days. But the sets in the house and the wardrobe are pretty and should be praised.
Not a fan too when it comes to most of all the main casts are from Taiwan/China. There are not many Malaysian actors/actresses -- one of the most notable ones are Angelina Tan. Yes, it may take international stars to attract more viewers out of Malaysia to this series, but if we can get all the casts from Malaysia, it would be much prouder moment for our industry.
I didn't read the book, so I rated the story from only this TV series. And I don't know what's going to happen next (because it ends up with interesting cliffhanger), if Netflix wants to go into season 2.
For editing and vfx, I think Netflix could do a lot better. I was hoping for a bigger Malacca 1890s background, but it was only a small set in the market that made Melaka visible in those days. But the sets in the house and the wardrobe are pretty and should be praised.
Not a fan too when it comes to most of all the main casts are from Taiwan/China. There are not many Malaysian actors/actresses -- one of the most notable ones are Angelina Tan. Yes, it may take international stars to attract more viewers out of Malaysia to this series, but if we can get all the casts from Malaysia, it would be much prouder moment for our industry.
I didn't read the book, so I rated the story from only this TV series. And I don't know what's going to happen next (because it ends up with interesting cliffhanger), if Netflix wants to go into season 2.
Exceptional Malaysia-made Series
RaidahTan24 January 2020
Overall Good, script is well written(I didn't read the book). The Peranakan elements in the series are eye opening,but the accent of the main actors are not-so-local,as I was expecting a more Malaysian- style accent.(not to mention their accent are different from one another). Also, the Malay pronunciation could be better(esp Er Lang).
If Only
charmainez5 November 2020
This was just lacking in so many aspects of the series . It really could've been a pretty cool little series if only ( in my opinion ) , the direction , acting , & voice overs , were a bit more convincing . I'm sorry to be so critical , but I hope it's taken as constructive criticism .
An Enjoyable Fantasy
charleslanobucklin13 February 2021
I don't know why this has such a low rating. I found this to be a very enjoyable Fantasy. Acting, cinematography and story were all first rate. I thought the actor who played Er Lang, the Heavenly Guard stole the show.
Great effort but poorly executed
Genkinchan6 February 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Like the title says it all... great effort for Malaysian cast and crew debut International debut mini series.. all the cast we can see put in a great effort to make the series looks good but the outcome could not be delivered
As the series goes on I can already predict every scene and possible outcome on who the murderer is... the plot is thin and kept on dragging it to 6 chapters which is awfully long winded just gave just ended it at chapter 4
A lot of unnecessary scenes to tell a story.. what I finds it interesting was the location scout which took place in peranakan mansion which is in Penang and I particularly fond off
I had already guess the murderer from chapter 3/4 I could not recall when a girl dressed up in cloak came out.. I may not know the back story but is predictable as Isabel ( Theresa Daley) won't be a cameo in this series I can see the locals and international effort in this movie But at the end of the day the story just did not pull it off
The movie tries to cramp in drama, mystery , horror , folklore, romance all into 6 chapters like a saying too much cook spoils the broth .
I rated it 3 stars because firstly the soundtrack is cool secondly the location for shooting is great thirdly the set design was quite charming for example the gambling den, the lim mansion and the pan household making it looks 1890.
As the series goes on I can already predict every scene and possible outcome on who the murderer is... the plot is thin and kept on dragging it to 6 chapters which is awfully long winded just gave just ended it at chapter 4
A lot of unnecessary scenes to tell a story.. what I finds it interesting was the location scout which took place in peranakan mansion which is in Penang and I particularly fond off
I had already guess the murderer from chapter 3/4 I could not recall when a girl dressed up in cloak came out.. I may not know the back story but is predictable as Isabel ( Theresa Daley) won't be a cameo in this series I can see the locals and international effort in this movie But at the end of the day the story just did not pull it off
The movie tries to cramp in drama, mystery , horror , folklore, romance all into 6 chapters like a saying too much cook spoils the broth .
I rated it 3 stars because firstly the soundtrack is cool secondly the location for shooting is great thirdly the set design was quite charming for example the gambling den, the lim mansion and the pan household making it looks 1890.
Loved this show!
littleokitaz26 January 2020
I loved this show! It had funny parts. It had a good storyline, was well shot with looked like they must have had a good budget, and the acting was very good. Of course some of the actors and actresses were from other shows I had seen over the years and I liked them already. I felt they had really excelled in this show. Must watch! Best watched in it's native language and subtitled if need be.
Good Enough
PennyReviews27 July 2023
Taiwanese Drama " The Ghost Bride " is a fantasy drama based on the YA book of the same name.
The story is full of fantasy elements and traditional themes, though it does stray away from the original plot, so if you are a fan of the book, you will probably be disappointed. But, apart from that, the series is enjoyable, even if the ending was rushed.
The characters, in addition, were interesting, even though the main lead was annoying at first. The actors and actresses were pretty great as well with excellent performances for a fantasy drama.
Finally, the SGI were okay and decent enough, but the costumes needed more thought as some of them looked fake.
So, overall, four out of ten.
The story is full of fantasy elements and traditional themes, though it does stray away from the original plot, so if you are a fan of the book, you will probably be disappointed. But, apart from that, the series is enjoyable, even if the ending was rushed.
The characters, in addition, were interesting, even though the main lead was annoying at first. The actors and actresses were pretty great as well with excellent performances for a fantasy drama.
Finally, the SGI were okay and decent enough, but the costumes needed more thought as some of them looked fake.
So, overall, four out of ten.
Waiting for season two!
cguerrero-172923 March 2020
I want to see the adventures that come and what's to happen with the funny guy in season 2. It's like a mix between the Disney channel and the Lifetime channel movie. The bad reviews are from those that read the book. NEWSFLASH the movie is never as good as the book, there is no financial limit to your imagination. If you are watching it with a clean slate, you'll more than likely like it.
Scenery, music and portrayal
kikaan23 February 2020
Althought is different from the book I liked how they combined elements from the modern world with elements of that historical period. The music was amusing and the actor's protrayal of the characters were interesting.
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