On August 6th, the television series titled Embracing in the Dark debuted with six episodes on Youku, marking its premiere. This drama has adopted the dominant male lead trope, yet it manages to avoid becoming monotonous or clichéd. Many scenes are delightfully sweet and endearing, presenting an interesting twist by setting these moments against a backdrop of crime. Consequently, this unique approach allows the show to appeal not just to female viewers but also to a significant male audience.
Within the narrative, the female protagonist finds herself kidnapped while traveling abroad by a local criminal organization. The kidnappers treat her as a prize to be won in a brutal fight among men. This grim premise sets the stage for what is to come, a stark contrast to the rule of law that prevails in our society.
The plot unfolds amidst a series of dark scenarios designed to create tension and excitement. To rescue the female lead, her sister hires a mercenary, who becomes the show's leading man. He competes in the violent contests, eventually emerging victorious and securing the right to claim the female lead. In a more wholesome environment, such a story would be unthinkable. However, this series employs creative storytelling techniques to maintain a semblance of propriety while still delivering the expected thrills.
Under the watchful eyes of the criminal organization, the male lead carries the female lead back to their quarters. Of course, the actual interaction remains chaste, adhering to the standards of domestic television. These scenes serve as the foundation for the typical dynamic between a powerful male lead and a vulnerable female lead, often characterized by tender and affectionate moments.
The criminal underworld serves as a setting that forces the protagonists into extraordinary circumstances, challenging them to survive in unconventional ways. For female viewers, the male lead's prowess as a former special operative is a key draw. Meanwhile, male audiences might find the portrayal of a world where strength reigns supreme compelling. This combination caters to a broad demographic, making the series a hit with both genders.
After overcoming numerous obstacles within the criminal organization, the male lead successfully rescues the female lead. Their initial adventure concludes, but the story takes a new turn. The female lead leaves her contact information with the male lead before returning home. However, he forgets the number during a laundry mishap, leading to a three-year separation. When they finally reunite, the roles have shifted significantly—the male lead has become a corporate tycoon, and the female lead is now his employee.
Despite the implausibility of such coincidences, the series continues without concern for conventional narrative logic. Instead of focusing solely on romance, the plot thickens as the female lead pretends not to recognize her savior. Her real reason for joining the company is to investigate the mysterious death of her sister. Together, the couple will unravel the truth, all while navigating the dynamics of a dominant male and an endearing female character.
Unlike many romantic dramas aimed primarily at female audiences, Embracing in the Dark incorporates elements of action and suspense, embracing a truly dominant male lead narrative. This approach appeals specifically to young male viewers who seek a sense of thrill and excitement. The series prioritizes the feeling of exhilaration over realism, crafting a narrative that is both engaging and entertaining for a wide range of viewers.
