Drama Review: Miss S / 旗袍美探

34

Rating

★★★★

Episodes

34

Drama Digest

The stern and edgy inspector Luo Qiuheng, and Miss Su Wen Li, a stunning and astute socialite, make an unlikely detective team together. Despite having many differences, the two have an undeniable chemistry and, of course, go on to solve numerous cases in and around Shanghai. Meanwhile, Su Wen Li searches for information regarding her sister’s disappearance, which occurred ten years ago and will always be a sore spot in her heart.

The Feel-Good Part

Even though the drama is light-hearted and fun, there is some sense of maturity among the characters. The story is not some silly drama you expect it to be. They have incorporated many good cases making the drama fascinating to watch. The production team did an excellent job in making everything look as realistic as possible.

The Disappointing Factor

Even though the ending is good, it might feel rushed in the last episode. The music is not as great as you expect it to be, considering the time and setting of the show. Other than that, there is nothing to point to as a disappointing factor.

In-Depth Analysis

Miss S is a remake of the 2012 Australian show Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries. The drama has 15 cases spread across 34 episodes, and each case study has different and new guest stars. It is a humorous detective story happening in Shanghai during the Republican Era. Miss S certainly feels more like a creatively loose adaptation of the screenplay to appeal to Chinese consumers than it does an overtly faithful recounting of the original version, even though the plotlines and cases have a lot in common. It has a Shanghai touch to everything in comparison to the original. It gives the show a unique trait. Everything around Miss S is stunning, even her house, clothes, and flirtatious personality. The romance does not overpower the show. It lets the other aspect of the show shine brighter while giving us a hint of fun with romance. Another eye-catching thing about the show is the art direction and the costumes. These were displayed beautifully and left you in awe of the art and costumes. The show has challenged many social norms. They have few sexual references, which are relatively fewer than the original. They also referenced how Western fashion replaced qipao (Chinese ethnic clothing), Russian ex-pats, and Japan’s rise. They concluded the show in a relatively good manner. Many viewers hope for a second season.

Star Power

Gao Wei Guang (Inspector Luo Qiuheng) and Ma Yi Li (Su Wenli) are excellent actors. Their connection and interaction in the show were remarkable. It was amusing how the crime-fighting duo was constantly bickering or betting on information and still managed to solve each case together. Even at their most hilarious moments, their chemistry was undeniable.

Overall Opinion

Miss S is a light and simple show to watch, with just enough wit and fun to make it worthwhile. Do give it a try!