PAGES OF TREASURES

Casts: Paul Chun, Wayne Lai, Eric Suen, Sonija Kwok, Mary Hon, Shirley Yeung, Sharon Chan, Vivien Yeo, Jason Chan, etc.
Length: 20 episodes
Genre: Modern Drama/Comedy
Producer: Mui Siu Ching
Scriptwriters: Leung Man Wah and Kar Wai Lam

Review in Brief

An awe-inspiring story of familial love and warmth... Eh, not quite. What held great potentials in being an entertaining and light hearted family drama left the audience unsatisfied and uninspired. The series ended with the most rushed and (literally) crazy story arc. In fact, the finale became so utterly ridiculous that I find the series unworthy of a proper review. Thus, please pardon the deviant format below.

Relationships

Despite the formulaic transition of being enemies turned lovers, Ming and Chung's relationship progressed naturally, with several endearing moments in between. There was not grandness in courtship or creative confessions. Simply, there was a comfortable union between two similar personalities. The simplicity was well captured and fitting of their characters.

Warning: This is possibly the worst love triangle written. It deserves no analysis. Just mere ranting:

For someone so intelligent and so filial, Ching surprisingly makes for a bad, terrible, unempathetic boyfriend. When learning of his girlfriend's unsettling past of abandonment, he offered no comforting words. Instead, he became upset that Abby has redirected her anger toward her mother (who left her) to her half-sister, Hill, who happens to be Ching's colleague. Instead of consoling Abby, his first words were, "Hill is innocent. You should not have dragged her into this."

Hong Kong is where Abby's nightmare took place. She has the right to desire a new setting. But Ching has convinced her to stay for a year and if by then, she does not like Hong Kong, they would go back to the States. When that year expired, Ching gave her an ultimatum - stay here and have a future with me; if not, then I know our future isn't as important to you as your past. He may have used more flowery words, but the message is all the same. What understanding person would expect such a deep scar to heal overnight? And to heal with no proper apology or resolution? Furthermore, who gives ultimatums when proposing marriage?! Rightfully, Abby chose to leave.

What's next for Ching? A relationship with Hill. Really!?!? Really, Ching? Of all people, you went for the half-sister of your ex? Have you any respect for Abby, for the girl you proposed marriage to!?!? Perhaps you've completely rid her off your mind and heart. I would have been more accepting of how fast you moved on (and with the wrong person, at that) if your actions were based on moments of confusion and weakness. But no, you were clear minded. You chose Hill.

As chance would have it, Abby returned to Hong Kong for work purposes. Abby, I applaud you for risking your life for that of a mother who called you selfish. I applaud you for saving the life of a mother whose son chose not to stand by you. And I would have given you a standing ovation if you, once discharged (from the hospital), decide to leave Hong Kong and start afresh, for he does not deserve you. He mistreated you. And he never apologized for it. The reunion of Abby and Ching was simply written in for the sake of a "happy" ending. But how "happy" can it get when Ching chose to stay with Abby only because she saved his mother's life? And there was not a single scene of Ching apologizing to Abby, or a little dialogue of showing remorse and promising to start anew! I would rather both Abby and Hill walk away from his life. For good.

Favorite Scene

There is something so poignant and touching in this simple meal between Father and Son. He speaks of his wish to always have his family nearby. But he also understands the conflict Ching is facing. And thus, he encourages Ching to leave with Abby and pursue his happy ending. That, that is a true father. A parent does not obstruct his son's dream or prevent his son from fulfilling a promise. And in fact, the best relationship portrayed in this series is one of parenthood - an unconditional love that is always selfless. [Exception below.]

Least Favorite Character

Abby's mother. Worst mother of the century. She left vulnerable and innocent Abby to an alcoholic father who becomes abusive when drunk. Why? Because she was frightened. Because she wanted to pursue happiness with another man. I understand her desire to leave her husband. But, her child, too?!? To place your happiness above your daughter's is unspeakable. To not protect but instead place your daughter's life at risk is outrageous. To abandon Abby and chase your dreams... I cannot think of a more selfish act a mother could conduct.

Sure, she is nurturing and caring toward Hill. But that in no way effaces the emotional scars she left Abby with. And she made no apology for it?!?! She didn't even try to face her mistake when given the chance years later?!?! She ran away. Again. Two words sum her up: selfish and cowardice. [Sorry, I get really worked up at two types of people: 1. those who are self-centered and 2. those who do not learn from past mistakes. This so-called mother is a sad combination of both.]

Performances

Wayne Lai - I regret that Wayne's first leading role is a typical one. It presents him no challenges and the audience is left without any deep impression.

Sonija Kwok - Refer to the above (minus the "first leading role" comment).

Shirley Yeung - The script has offered her much scope and room to act. Unfortunately, she miserably failed to deliver. Her eyes and overall facial expressions cannot communicate to me the pain stabbing her heart. Shirley has never before been more unnatural than here.

Vivien Yeo - I wish TVB would stop typecasting Vivien in a "third party" role. She has potential and delivered a solid performance. Let her have more acting opportunities, please!

Overall

Watch the first six episodes to revel in the cast's chemistry and take delight in such familial warmth and happiness. The rest of the series isn't worth your time. In fact, was there a focus to the "plot"? It felt more like mini storylines forcefully taped together. What was the theme? Literacy? The lost art of reading and craftsmanship in today's high tech world? If only. Whatever theme the scriptwriters had in mind, it was haphazardly explored and eventually forgotten.

Rating: C-

How would you rate the series?