On the evening of August 21st, the fourteenth episode of the series "The Prosecutor of Nine Departments" was released. With only four episodes remaining until its conclusion, if the producers decide to offer a pay-per-view option for the finale, fans will be just a step away from the climax. Given that we've seen more than half of the show, it's worth revisiting the performance of Qin Lan and considering whether she has been a hindrance or an asset to the series.
Before the premiere, I expressed concerns about Qin Lan's suitability for this role, given her history in urban dramas with a romantic bent, often featuring workplace romances or even age-gap relationships. Would someone with such a background be the right choice for a crime drama? Now that the series is nearing its end, let's see how these concerns have played out.
Since the release of the series, Qin Lan's portrayal has sparked mixed reactions. Some viewers have praised her performance, while others believe it detracts from the overall quality. One particularly harsh critique compared her acting unfavorably to that of a young male co-star. Such criticism can be quite hurtful, akin to saying a book is too rough for wiping one's bottom – not exactly constructive feedback.
So, how does Qin Lan fare in "The Prosecutor of Nine Departments"? To evaluate an actor's performance, it's essential to consider their role within the context of the story. With the series at episode fourteen, the character's traits are well-established. Let's take a closer look at the protagonist's persona.
Firstly, she is portrayed as a strong, decisive professional, but not without warmth and approachability. She commands respect not through intimidation but by her ability to inspire confidence in those around her. This is a refreshing departure from the stereotypical domineering female boss archetype.
Secondly, the protagonist works closely with juvenile offenders and their families, requiring a delicate balance between firmness and compassion. A hard-nosed approach would be ill-suited for the role of a prosecutor dealing with young people. Qin Lan's inherent warmth and empathy become assets rather than liabilities in this context.
Some viewers may perceive Qin Lan's warmth as a weakness, mistaking it for lack of strength. It's true that she hasn't deviated significantly from her established style, but the role itself calls for a gentle touch. In this sense, her performance aligns perfectly with what the script demands.
It's important to note that roles with distinct edges tend to showcase an actor's range more clearly, whereas characters that require subtlety and nuance can make it harder to display acting prowess. For instance, antagonists often seem more dynamic due to their sharp contrasts, while protagonists might appear less compelling because they need to maintain a smoother edge.
In "The Prosecutor of Nine Departments," the lead character is intentionally smooth and rounded, which suits Qin Lan's strengths. Her approach to the role complements the character's personality and professional demeanor. Therefore, it's fair to say that Qin Lan has not hindered the series; on the contrary, she has added value to it through her performance.
