ROSY BUSINESS

Casts: Sheren Tang, Wayne Lai, Ron Ng, Ngok Wah, Kiki Sheung, Susan Tse, Kara Hui, Nancy Wu, Suki Chui
Length: 25 episodes
Genre: Period Drama
Producer: Lee Tim Sing
Scriptwriters: Cheung Wah Biu & Chan Ching Yee

Review in Brief

Flawless script. Flawless characterization. Flawless casting, almost. The ending so peaceful and conclusive that no resonate feelings remain. The only fault with Rosy Business is that it is too flawless it cannot cast a lasting or poignant effect. My heartstrings are still intact though I desire them to be slightly misplaced. Though a beautiful production, I was not deeply touched.

Plot

Set during the Manchu dynasty, Rosy Business tells a story of how a reputable rice merchant struggled to provide adequate rice for fellow townsmen during natural and manmade disasters. It is a story of how ambitions drove a woman to realize her visions and acquire the respect of her people. It is also a story of how ambitions drove another woman to resort to all means during a power struggle. But more accurately, this is a story of a blooming friendship between Po Kei (Sheren Tang) and Chai Kau (Wayne Lai), as reflective of the Chinese title, which loosely translates to Veiled Femininity, Courage Masculinity.

Characterization

Po Kei - Decisive. Determined. Persistent. Strong-willed. Wise. Self-sacrificing. Realistically selfish. My overall impression of Po Kei can be summarized thus: If there exists her male counterpart, I'd marry him in a heartbeat. :P

Chai Kau - Loyal. Stubborn. Hasty. Almost reckless. Yet, these characteristics, when combined with a sincere purpose and guidance to climb the social status ladder, have made Chai Kau an admirable and dimensional character. Undoubtedly the most dynamic character of the series, Chai Kau's progression from a lowly coolie to third manager was graceful (with all its realistic bends in the road). Equally heartwarming was his transition from a man who begs for food to a man living with no regrets.

Pit Ching - Utterly flat and static. What growth this character underwent was told and not shown. There is hardly any evidence that Pit Ching would be a good heir to the family business, aside from his affinity with fellow workers and a kindhearted personality. Pit Ching was never shown to step up and take control. Even his mother, seemingly unopinionated and spineless, sacrificed her life to defend her beliefs. And all Pit Ching was capable of was making a vow (which we were to assume he kept) to prosper the family business and place the people's interests first. All talk. The development of his personal affairs is equally lacking. His romance with Ah Man (Suki Chui, the only casting flaw) is in fact, not entirely necessary. I do appreciate their relationship, however, as the Tseung household deserves the witness of happy and carefree moments.

Performances

Sheren Tang - No other actress would do this role justice. Although Po Kei is generally strong and wise, Sheren brilliantly portrayed her weaker moments of doubts and fear. She delivered a captivating performance be that through her confident smiles or hurtful tears. I am especially appreciative of Sheren's portrayals in the following two scenes: (1) When Chai Kau repeatedly thanked Po Kei for seeking vengeance against Pit Man (Pierre Ngo) and warned her to be cautious, Sheren's eyes were filled with guilt, remorse, and a gentle mix of gratitude. (2) When Fung Yee (Susan Tse) confronted Po Kei of her son's death and how she lost their war, the look of pity and hurt in Sheren's eyes was balanced with shock and acceptance. Just beautiful.

Wayne Lai - Finally a worthy lead acting role for Wayne to portray. When watching Chai Kau's arrival to Wu Xi and being ridiculed to crawl while gnawing at a dog bone, I winced and had to look away. Shame was written all over Wayne's face, and equally unhidden is the fiery determination of vengeance and ambition. Yet, his portrayal isn't merely of masculinity. Wayne effortlessly portrayed Chai Kau's softer image as someone loyal, caring, and with a sense of humor. Although it is much too early to say, I am definitely behind Wayne for the Best Actor award.

Ron Ng - Who would have thought the stiff Ron Ng from yesteryear has ceased to be wooden? I am glad he is no longer typecasted and can indeed portray a level-headed role. But, his improvement needs further scrutiny and assessment before I can declare him a fine actor. :P

Nancy Wu - As with other supporting roles, Nancy nailed this one as a heartlessly flirtatious mistress who transformed into a loving and loyal wife. Nancy is always natural and subtle in her acting. I hope TVB will soon give her bigger roles.

Overall

This series is definitely worth your time. There is not a single dragging or rushed episode. In fact, every minute is carefully drafted to drive the plot forward. The ending deserves much praise for its ability to establish a perfect closure. Though many opportunities arose to punish the cowardly and undignified Pit Man, his death was a self-destruction. He died under his own evil deeds. No other ending would be more fitting. Equally realistic is Fung Yee's inability to turn back, realize her wrongdoings, and admit defeat. The last look she gave Po Kei at the hermitage haunted me. Her eyes seemingly unaware of reality, yet peaceful. Chai Kau's death, too, was a meaningful end to his legacy. My tear duct was not activated, for there is no need to cry when he had lived a life faithful to his motto: Life is short. Make the most of it.

Rating: A-

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