All the Light We Cannot See (2023)

Having read the novel many times, I must say that I couldn't feel the same level of awe and emotional impact when watching this series as compared to when I first read the book. The non-linear narrative is the defining feature of the original work, but this kind of charm has disappeared in the TV series. Werner is characterized almost entirely differently, and the portrayal of Mary is no longer lively. Some actors seem to be overacting and the villains feel overly stereotypical. This adaptation isn't successful; it’s simply a failure. I'd been eagerly anticipating the adaptation ever since I finished reading the book, and after waiting for so many years, it's disappointing they've produced this crap for TV.

Finally, the book I've always failed to finish has been adapted into a series. The cinematic-level production and performance are coupled with a fast-paced storyline and a tense atmosphere throughout. However, the plot relies too heavily on coincidences. The dim visuals are permeated with the heaviness of wartime and some scenes bluntly depict the brutality of war, making them unbearable to watch. The intelligent and resilient blind girl may live in darkness, but she strives for the light, further illuminating others. Peace is beautiful, but unfortunately, humankind keeps ruining it, again and again.

It’s terrific, though the ending felt dragged out. Both the female lead and the young actress who portrayed her as a child are also legally blind, and I greatly admire their acting skills. Once again, the atmosphere of Debussy's "Clair de Lune" is brilliantly presented in this series. Watching the live footage and photographs of the past during the end credits reminded me of the words of social reformer Eglantyne Jebb: "Every war is a war against children!" In today's equally chaotic world, our hope for freedom and happiness lies with the youth and the illumination of truth.

Firstly, the meticulously crafted makeup, costumes and props are paired with a star-studded cast. The father, uncle, and even the Nazi with side-parting are portrayed flawlessly, and the performances of the female characters, especially the old lady, are also nuanced and authentic. This adaptation relies heavily on the performances of these seasoned actors to give this romantic and straightforward plot soul and depth, making it more heart-warming. The young actors also looked good and did a great job. It's a nice romantic drama, and I’m expecting more touching plots in the original work when I read it later.

I’d been picturing the scenes in my mind as I read through the novel. War is brutal while the light of humanity shines through. The words crafted a delicate beauty, and the dual narratives of the male and female leads allow two individuals from different worlds to gradually draw closer under the influence of the same voice, only to miss each other after the intersection of their time axes. The novel's structure is subtle, and the story is heartwarming. Unfortunately, the TV series lacks all these strengths.

I've read the original work, and this adaptation has undergone significant changes with a completely different tone. The original work is well-paced and poetic, but the pacing in this adaptation feels rushed, odd and monotonous, failing to capture the vibe of the original work. It could have been more nuanced, but the plot has been overly commercialized, opting for simplistic and crude storytelling instead. Also, a wonderful character is removed in the adaptation, and the general characterization is so poor and shallow that every character feels extremely one-sided. The plot feels childish, like a joke. Although the actors are talented, the plot and screenplay hindered their performances. It could have been a great piece of work...