The Silence of the Monster (2022)

Unique cinematography and setting for a cdrama

**this is my first time writing a review so sorry if it is really badly explained**

Cinematography/Directing
The way this drama was shot and directed was such a breath of fresh air to cdramas! It's hard for me to explain but the way the drama was filmed gives off a bit of an indie vibe/more mysterious than your regular romcom cdrama with a bit of mystery. The combination of the architecture and interior design of Monster Vintage plus the costume styling of the characters really helped set the tone for this drama as well. The trailer shown for this drama on MDL focuses more on the drama's romantic aspect, making it seem lighter than it really is. One of the best parts of this drama would be the Monster Notebook segments at the end of each episode. These clips are shot like old films and give more insight into the characters in a fun way. Even if you dislike the romance in this drama, I think the cinematography itself is worth staying for!

Music
Other than the cinematography, the music is the best part of this drama. Every single OST is amazing! I would rewatch this just for the music.

Romance and Mystery
The ratio between romance and mystery in this drama is 50/50 in my opinion. Some episodes are romance heavy while others are focused on solving the cases the two MLs receive or uncovering secrets hidden by each main character. Some of the cases are really dark but a few are a bit more light. The romance aspect is nothing special but the mystery behind each character is what makes this drama stand out more.

Acting
*I have a bit of a Robin fan filter but I'm trying to write this as unbiased as possible*
The main cast are all relatively new so the acting is not bad but not good. Characterwise they all play their roles quite well. Overall the acting is good enough to get through the drama (no extremely awkward acting) but would not rewatch for acting. Also, Robin's character is hilarious. ( I feel like he's most people's favorite character)

Pacing
It's 36 episodes so it can seem a bit slow but it isn't that bad.

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Slice of life with touch of investigation and grim undertones.

Technically The Silence of the Monster had all the typical slice of life elements - a group of characters creating a bond with each other, learning many useful and meaningful life lessons and learning how to overcome their struggles and traumas. It was cute and fun to watch. And yet, the drama managed to add the darker twist to it all, making it seem like the happiness was diluted, and the bubble could burst any time.

It was all possible thanks to the characters and how they were portrayed - especially for Luo Bin and He Chu Feng. The events of their past were still haunting them in the present, and even though they tried to move on, sometimes you need to face the tragedy, before you can build your happiness.

Luo Bin and Chu Feng had a great dynamic going on - one more reserved, the other not being able to stay still and quiet for more than a few minutes. What the show did well was giving small tweaks to who we thought the characters were. Chu Feng was not really this cold and quiet type, and Lou Bin was not as happy and carefree as it seemed.

On the other hand, while I enjoyed Sui Yi a lot, her character had nowhere near as much depth and complexity as the two male leads. For me, she represented the normality in the show - pretty, smart, hardworking, good natured. She brought the sunlight and warmth to Monster Vintage.

But then, we have Xiao An, whom I would not even consider one of the main characters. She showed up really late, she had little to no personality and presence on the screen. The development of her relationship with other characters was poorly paced and she never truly seemed like a part of the team for me.

The plot of The Silence of the Monster might seem like an investigation focused story, but for me, playing Sherlock Holme was more of a means to deliver the messages. It never felt like the focus was on the cases themselves, but rather on the people involved, especially the victims. Through the investigation, the drama presented many important social and personal messages. It tackles subjects like stalking and cyber crime, prejudice, animal cruelty, divorce/remarriage and the impact it might have on the child, mental health issues, trauma, the consequences of the white lies, and many more.

Sadly, plot wise, around episode 20 it all slowed down and I started to lose interest. The cases were nowhere near as interesting as the ones at the beginnings, the transition from the case by case scenario, to linking them to create a bigger picture was questionable. And the big bad guys were simply laughable.

The performances in most cases were great. I especially liked the raw emotions Annie Sun showed in the last few episodes. Both Bi Wen Jun and Zhu Zheng Ting had a strong delivery throughout the whole show. Ye Peng was capable of portraying Gu Nam in a way I had moments when I did empathize with him, even though I completely disagreed with his actions. The only performance that did not convince me at all was Baby Zhang, but it’s hard for me to judge how much was it the actress's fault, and how much I should blame the writing of the character.

The thing that stood out the most in a positive way were the costumes, styling, set designs, sceneries and the soundtrack. The whole show seemed like a piece of art, proven by 468 screenshots I took. I loved the vintage vibes they used, that felt stylish and not outdated. I liked a lot of the wide shots with the focus point not being in the center, but rather on one of the sides.

Soundtrack wise, I think Clare Duan - Tao Hao was my favorite song, but honestly speaking, literally every song was perfect and a gem worth adding to the playlist. Well fitting the drama, the scenes and the atmosphere created by the visual means.

Overall, it was a great watch, but the few complaints I had, had quite an impact on the overall quality of the show. It’s still worth watching and diving into the mysterious, but somehow welcoming and warm world of Monster Vintage.

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Those with defects are likely to have soul

*Cinematography of the drama was so spot on. It was visually appealing and I loved that it kept to the theme of vintage. The styling and tone of the drama had the sherlock holmes type of feel. Plus, some scenes were shot so beautifully, i.e. the forest scenes.*

Focusing on the concept of loneliness, “The Silence of the Monster” a.k.a “Lonely Monster” reveals to us a story of friendship with dark undertones of mystery, and a dash of romance. Centered around our 2 Male leads He Chufeng, the cold yet righteous locksmith, and Robin, the chatty but sincere appraiser, we go on a journey to see these 2 best friend/roommates use their skills to help the community. They are highly skilled in their jobs but when they come together to solve crimes it’s amazing how their work can intertwine. I like the balance that they both have in terms of personality but of course in drama land, what would come of a good duo comes a twist that would lead to the “monster” portion of the title. Although they are super close and understanding of one another, both male leads have secrets that go beyond what one would be able to comprehend if revealed early-on in their friendship. Thus causing the darker and more meaty part of the story in the latter half of the show.

The drama also covered a lot of heavy topics related to mental health such as depression, trauma, guilt, divorce, etc. It was a good touch to make the story be more realistic. And this point is what I feel would be the deciding factor for many if you like the show or not. The first trailer of the drama painted this more as a lighthearted funny romance drama but there’s more depth once we past all the build-up of the characters. The 2nd half hits you with the darker and flawed side of the characters. You learn of their secrets and see them as any other human being with flaws. They all start to become vulnerable and we discover how the “lonely” aspect really cuts deep for Chufeng and Robin. They happily fall in love but have a hard time maintaining it since they’re new to the “love” department after all the years of being alone. As I keep saying the 2nd half is more of a whirlwind of emotions and pulls you in for a ride. Beware that if you like the pace of the story in the 1st half, the 2nd half kind of flips instantly and focuses on the mystery side of things so prepare yourselves. I know some people didn’t like it but I liked the realistic approach. It keeps you conflicted since you learn to like the characters from the first half and then they are completely different from what you see. The antagonists of the story weren’t strong but the Shifu ticked me off. His obsession was pure madness. A lot of times the bad guys were just petty people. lol

Honestly, the romance aspect wasn’t necessary but I felt it was merely added to be able to instigate other aspects of the story that needed an excuse to push the motives of the characters forward. It’s not the main focus so if you’re looking for something super sweet, you have a better chance watching a Sweet On series drama. There were cute moments between both couples but nothing to really excite the fangirl in me lol. You have a dorky cute awkward couple and a straightforward fiery couple who had better kissing scenes. The bromance was much better and I even enjoyed more of the trio prior to them dating. Had me yelling at the screen for a bit in the last few episodes.

Considering that this was filmed back in 2020 and all 4 leads are still newbies in acting, I think they did a good job. Of all the dramas I’ve seen Bi Wenjun in, I think he did an excellent job towards the end with the high angst scenes. I mean just wow! It was still a bit lacking but he convinced me enough to feel that he really was hurt and about to go crazy. In the beginning he was a bit stiff and awkward but got better once the episodes went on. I hope to see him in more dramas like this one with the mystery because I think he did good and could improve with more roles like these. His character has a lot of depth. Same goes for Zhu Zhengting. I think this one might have been one of his first or even his first drama he filmed but I absolutely loved him as Robin! He might have been my favorite character. He was definitely the chatty but sweet and sensitive guy who makes a great friend. Some people find him annoying as the main cp does too lol but I think his personality is a good contrast to the quiet and cold He Chufeng. He livens up the house. I still am a bit shocked and upset for what happened to him at the end but *sigh*… there’s still somewhat good closure. So proud of both male leads! The ladies did good and their purpose as support for our ML’s was fine. I still scratch my head at Xiao An’s story line but there’s more important things to focus on. Decent acting all around.

OSTs in the drama are so fitting and even though I can’t find it, I absolutely love the English OST that constantly gets played. Fun fact: the ending OST is the song that Esther Yu and Dylan Wang sang for LBFAD.

Overall the story still holds solid even if there are some points that kind of get lost in detailing. I came in to this drama for both ML’s as a NEX7/IP fan and did not leave disappointed. Sure, the show could have improvements but for fairly new actors and screenwriter it was a hidden gem. It was so worth the 2 year wait. It’s not spectacular but I will say it grasps you in with all the mystery, fun side characters and decent subplots. I’d say give it a try because despite some flaws and a bittersweet ending, the story kept me engaged. Plus, there are so many good quotes from this drama. Here's to our monsters! ??

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Modern Vintage

This plot intrigued me. It was different than your run of the mill romance with a touch of weirdness. It wasn't a perfect script or acting by any stretch of the imagination, but it had something unique and attention grabbing. I was unfamiliar with the cast but really wanted to give this a try. It really was a modern vintage.

Pros: Out of the 4 leads, I have to say I liked HCF the most. Even though he started out a bit stiff, he was always aiming to improve and once he fell in love the man was a goner. Their chemistry was very cute (do wish they knew how to kiss better lol), I found myself rewinding all their together moments; just melting cute. Two live together in a cinematography masterpiece and the women blow in by fate. The way we learn about each person's backstory slowly, opens each character to us in both good ways and not so good. Costumes, OSTs, imagery, surroundings, were sometimes straight on point and other times missed the mark.

Though there were 3 antagonists total, the one who lost his mind was the most prominent and understandable probably more to the audience than to the characters until the ending 4 episodes. Plus he was HCF's master so harder to let that sink in. I really liked the case solving in the first portion of the series and how many people they actually helped. But as time went on, it seemed all of that was forgotten. The comedy and the bonds in their community were cute and funny and added that time, in a way, stood still there. I liked SY when she was balls to the walls no nonsense speaking common sense but then she would turn around, her eyes would start rolling around on her face like they were escaping somewhere, it left you wondering where the smart young woman went. Time to visit the cons.

Cons: The script had way too many loose ends. Continuing with SY, why must women constantly in these dramas forget they have an inner monologue instead of just yammering away in public nonstop and then looking all shocked when someone catches them? It never fazes to amaze me. I wasn't at all sure the casting of Xiao An was a proper one as she had a stone cold face even when she cried. I didn't feel much of a connection nor chemistry between her and Robin. He was great as a melodramatic performer to the point of eye rolling but she was just a block of granite.

Then there was Shifu and his total break from reality from his getting out of prison until when he orchestrated the kidnapping first of Robin, then of SY. Why didn't HCF go straight to the police? The same people who he'd helped and vice versa all these years. Plus who was that guy in the park that HCF was supposed to meet if Shifu wasn't already dead and SY rescued? A ghost? It made no sense. How does involuntary manslaughter get you 6 years in prison? Shifu had Robin kidnapped, drugged, beaten, then kidnapped SY nearly killing her, but when he and Robin fight and he ends up dead, could have gone either way there, Robin still must serve time in prison? Something is seriously out of whack with their laws. Many loose ends that didn't get solved though there was a happy ending.

Would I recommend it? Despite much confusion, a young cast, and many loose ends, I still would because it really was a nice and easy drama. Plus it was very entertaining and a new concept one. Not to mention when the leads are together after they're official, they're too stinking cute! So give it a go.

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So much potential, poor writing, decent acting by young actors.

Subjective Gut Rating - 7.75

The setting of “The Silence of the Monster” is an interesting one. The unique genius duo of He Chu Feng (locksmith extraordinaire) and Luo Bin aka Robin (master appraiser) is the highlight of the drama. With the introduction of Sui Yi (trainee lawyer) added to the mix, their cohabitation shenanigans are fun and interesting. However, I think the drama tries to do too much. If it has focused on the main characters and their experiences, but removed the unimpressive crime investigation, it might be a better one.

What I Like:

1, The three main characters - This trio of He Fu Cheng, Robin and Sui Yi is the real highlight for me. They are three very distinct characters with unique quirks and personalities. Yet when you put them together, they create real chemistry and are really fun to watch. The first half of the drama focuses on how they met, getting to know each other, and living together harmoniously. They are all like-able and lovable, but not perfect.

2. Bi Wen Jun - This is my 4th drama of Bi Wen Jun, and I wish his roles are more diverse. The characters I see him play (“Sweet Tai Chi”, “Sweet Teeth”, “Double Love” and “The Silence of the Monster”) are very similar - cool and smart, not super friendly to begin with but warms up eventually. But I have to say his role as He Chu Feng is a little different in that there are many more emotional scenes. This is not a romantic comedy, and the complicated past of He Chu Feng allows Bi Wen Jun to show a different side of him. His acting has definitely improved since his first role in “Sweet Tai Chi” in 2019. I wish to see him more in challenging roles and I believe he has a lot of potential.

3. Zhu Zheng Ting - My first drama starring Zhu Zheng Ting and he is so pretty. ? LOL. What a good-looking guy and he plays a very lovable Robin. Robin brings me a lot of joy when watching this drama. Towards the latter half of the drama, his silliness and optimism do die down a little, and we go into more of the secrets he hides. Zhu Zheng Ting did a good job in switching from an outgoing and lovable boy, to a hurt and confused Robin towards that last few episodes. I look forward to his future projects.

4. Sui Yi (played by Sun Yi Han) - I love to see a go-getter female role such as Sui Yi. Yes, she might be idealistic as a trainee lawyer, but I also appreciate seeing her standing up for herself and not backing down on ideals she believes in. Sui Yi is not perfect but she’s someone I root for. She could be shy when it comes to her relationship with He Chu Feng, but she is also not afraid to initiate physical contact or express her feelings honestly.

5. Main Romance (He Fu Cheng & Sui Yi) - A slow burn romance that I very much enjoy watching. Both are quite inexperienced with love but the chemistry is definitely there. It’s nice to see a healthy relationship where they support each other through hard times, be patient with each other and communicate their honest feelings. Though the kisses aren’t great, they do give off a very cute and fluffy vibe during some of their scenes and I can’t help but smile.

6. OST - There are quite a few songs and they are all pretty good. There are times in the earlier episodes that I think the songs are a little overplayed, but they are good songs.


What I Don’t Like or have Mixed Feelings:

1. Investigation/Cases - I see why these investigations are needed to showcase the characters skills and personalities. However, none of them is interesting to me. They seem too simple and did not create enough suspense to make me want to find out the truth. If they are written better, it might add to the drama. In this case, I think they just prolong the drama and drag the pace. This could have been a better drama with one or two expertly written cases, and cut down to 24 episodes.

2. Preachy? - I find the drama a little preachy when talking about safety education during Hu Chu Feng’s classes. I wish the writing was better to educate viewers without it being straight out of a class.

3. Revenge Plot - The revenge is so dragged out. The character was introduced quite early on and you know he’s up to no good. We knew this will be in the big finale but the wait for that to happen is long. I had to fast forward some of the scenes in the last third of the drama because I was bored.

4. Secondary Romance (Robin & Xiao An) - I don’t see much chemistry between the two and it’s hard for me to believe they fall for each other. For Robin, maybe he doesn’t need a reason since he’s chasing after the Love at First Sight romance. For Xiao An, I don’t see her showing much affection. She acts like a big sister and at times annoyed at the little brother.

5. Poor writing in the end - What is up with the kidnapping plots? The first kidnapping incident is just a joke. We have villains busy bull-shitting instead of doing some real damage. Even when they had weapons, they got easily beaten. Where are the bodyguards? I thought the victim had an injection of some sort. What was the consequence? They could still walk around and fight as if nothing happened. I thought the effects would be disclosed in the last episode, but that didn’t happen. The introduction of the boss and villains were confusing. The editing in the last few episodes feels off and incoherent.

6. Minor annoyances - Too much heavy makeup on Robin. He’s too “white”. Characters claimed to be cold but they wear short-sleeves and don’t wear coats or jackets in the winter. Facial scratches/injuries don’t seem to heal even when another character who suffered more serious injuries is discharged from the hospital.

If you are a fan of the leads, then I would recommend this drama. It’s unfortunate that it has so much potential but the writing isn’t solid. I really enjoy the trio and each of their characters and had an enjoyable time watching the first half of the drama. The writing of the angst, tragic past and revenge should be interesting and a focus of the drama, but they are not. At least, we have some decent acting from the three main characters,


Completed: 2/11/2023

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It's my first review so pls don't mind

This is one of the most unique drama I've watched so far. The storyline, setting, vibe every thing gives off a vintage vibe which makes it a standout from the general romcom cdrama stereotype . It also had a slight taste of mystery, thriller and reality. But the most important and noteworthy thing was their friendship. He chufeng and Robin's friendship is the true definition of trust, faith and love, pure love. Not many can get such a friendship. This was one of the reason why this drama adds up to my fav list. Acting is quite good tho not the best as many of the actors are new but it won't affect the quality of the show according to me. Overall a very good drama for someone who wants something new and refreshing.


I hope this review will be helpful.

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It had a lot of potential but overall the MLS carried it

Whole I haven’t finished yet, I plan to. The friendship between the MLS is hilarious and heartwarming. At first I thought this was going to be a boy love show, I mean they played it so well. But these 2 men, will always be there for each other. The music I found annoying at times; sometimes instrumental is better than the constant repetition of a songs verse. I have to agree about Baby Zhang, I couldn’t buy her as the love interest. I think the female police officer or the law office clerk would have been a good match for Robin. And Su Yi mom, in the beginning she had to call her every day, then nothing. Mom dropped off face of earth. And the expensive gift I’m guessing is coming back to bite the FL in the ass. If it doesn’t, what a plot hole and plot drop. But if it does, most likely will be the standard ‘saw that coming’ trope and be a bit disappointing. I do admit I like the new love feel the ML and FL had; it was believable.

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Slice of Life.. Aww I love their relationships apat. Super

Slice of Life.. Aww I love their relationships apat. Sui Yi and Luo Bin noisy, positive, energetic vibs; He Chufeng and Luo Bin friendship; Luo Bin and Fang Qi real love; and Chufeng and Sui Yi strong love.
-Akala ko boring maganda naman pala hehe
-I watch this drama it seems interesting at first and the actors nagustuhan ko.
- I like the 2 actors chu feng and luo bin
- Ang cute at lively ni Lou Bin/Robin
- I like Sui Yi napaka energetic haha at dahil sa kanya lage sila napupunta sa police station hha
-Gusto ko yung mga SONGS ng drama nato maganda pakinggan
-nakakaaliw si Luo Bin haha
-Ang ganda ng mga ngiti ni He Chufeng pero ang payat lng nya
-Ang cute ng interaction ni Luo Bin at Sui Yi magkavibes haha
-CUte ng story ni Luo Bin at Fang Qi kahit may memory lose sya alam nya sa heart nya na di nya gusto yung nagpakilalang fiancee nya at si Luo Bin lang yung gusto nya
-nakaka touch yung ife ni Luo Bin
-may times lng na bored ako kaya skip in some minutes don sa problem ni Chufeng at Luo Bin sa isa't isa
- I really love the friendship ni Luo Bin at Chufeng they are destined to meet again. They love and care each other
-I like Granny's advices always

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