Decoded (2016)

Decoded is a drama about an autist and maths genius who becomes a spy to help decoding the "purple code" the hardest code ever made.
First, I have to say that the acting was very good, especially the main character who was very skillfully portaited. He was exactly how one of my friend (who's autist) is and well, that's amazing how even the way he walks was greatly portrayed. I really loved how each characters was deeply developed.
The story in itself is good, although maybe too long. For a perfect show I would've cut a little bit earlier in the story... As there were some romance/irrealistic things that were really different from the rest of the drama. Also, at times you really get the impression that they just want to make the story longer; I guess they should've made the same story but with only like, 35 episodes. They show some scenes during 3 minutes just with a different angle and your like, yeah, well, that's not even the most epic/emotional scene so could we just advance in the story?
And the ending was a bit too much... Lovey Dovey, I'd say. But I guess romance lovers have to be satisfied too...
But that doesn't mean the show wasn't good. You stay on the edge on your seat, wanting always more and more and to know what happens to the characters, whom you really become attached to. You see how the main character grows up and become stronger, and that really is an inspiration for everybody. I actually stayed up until 2am to watch a few more episodes, and I don't do that for every dramas out there- there were really some epic moments !!
As for the music, I really liked the ending song, and the few music out were nice, although not memorable.
What is incredible is how you're projected in the 1950. The set is beautifully done and the clothes are perfect.
As for the rewatch value... Well, I'm sure I'll rewatch some part of the drama- there are some really epic scenes hehe- but maybe not in its entirety.
Anyway, if you like spy/action dramas, this is for you!
And if you love romance, well, there are some hints in the beginning and the last ten episodes are for you, hehe
(Sorry for my bad English~)

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Unsung Heroes

Decoded tells the story of a Mathematics genius, who has a form of autism, being part of a team of young recruits joining a confidential decoding unit of the Communist military, during their war against the Nationalists (Kuomintang) at the beginning of the Mao administration. Based on the novel of the same name by bestselling spy novelist, Mai Jia, the drama chronicles his journey from humble beginnings as a college student to becoming a hero of Unit 701 by successfully decoding the hitherto invincible Purple Code, an encryption program used by the enemy.

The premise is reminiscent of The Imitation Game and A Beautiful Mind, while the storyline resembles Young Blood (2019). Action, thriller, suspense, and romance infused with slice-of-life and humour along with themes of coming-of-age, family, brotherhood, friendship, betrayal, tragedy, revenge, as well as redemption. This drama has it all neatly condensed into 41 episodes.

The drama showcases high production values in recreating the setting for Ningzhou in the late 1940s, in addition to the impressive art direction and authentic costume designs of the era. It features commendable performances by Chen Xue Dong and Ying Er in the lead roles of Rong Jin Zhen and Zhai Li respectively. They are supported by the talented Zhang Zhe Han and Jing Chao, along with notable veterans Guo Jing Fei and Bai Qing Lin. Li Nan delivers a compelling portrayal of the villainous Chen Jian Nian while Wu Wen Jing makes a memorable appearance in a guest role.

The plotline and characters are generally well written, although certain aspects of the storytelling defy belief somewhat through rather surprising turns of events and shocking twists and turns. A couple of story arcs are presented longer than necessary, thus resulting in uneven pacing especially at the halfway point. However, all major characters are fully fleshed out while the drama does finish strongly, albeit a little rushed particularly in the last episode that brings closure to the overarching plot.

Renowned composer Roc Chen (阿鲲) provides the hauntingly evocative theme song for the production, Wei Man (微芒) which is beautifully performed by Cao Yang (曹洋).

Overall, Decoded is quite an engaging and well-acted drama that provides enough thrills and spills from the decently-rendered action sequences and depiction of spycraft, as well as more than a few emotive moments throughout. I find myself quite invested in Chen Xue Dong’s portrayal of Rong Jin Zhen in his journey of self discovery where he experiences much character development that results in a truly remarkable transformation.

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