Decoded (2016)

Unsung Heroes

Decoded tells the story of a Mathematics genius, who has a form of autism, being part of a team of young recruits joining a confidential decoding unit of the Communist military, during their war against the Nationalists (Kuomintang) at the beginning of the Mao administration. Based on the novel of the same name by bestselling spy novelist, Mai Jia, the drama chronicles his journey from humble beginnings as a college student to becoming a hero of Unit 701 by successfully decoding the hitherto invincible Purple Code, an encryption program used by the enemy.

The premise is reminiscent of The Imitation Game and A Beautiful Mind, while the storyline resembles Young Blood (2019). Action, thriller, suspense, and romance infused with slice-of-life and humour along with themes of coming-of-age, family, brotherhood, friendship, betrayal, tragedy, revenge, as well as redemption. This drama has it all neatly condensed into 41 episodes.

The drama showcases high production values in recreating the setting for Ningzhou in the late 1940s, in addition to the impressive art direction and authentic costume designs of the era. It features commendable performances by Chen Xue Dong and Ying Er in the lead roles of Rong Jin Zhen and Zhai Li respectively. They are supported by the talented Zhang Zhe Han and Jing Chao, along with notable veterans Guo Jing Fei and Bai Qing Lin. Li Nan delivers a compelling portrayal of the villainous Chen Jian Nian while Wu Wen Jing makes a memorable appearance in a guest role.

The plotline and characters are generally well written, although certain aspects of the storytelling defy belief somewhat through rather surprising turns of events and shocking twists and turns. A couple of story arcs are presented longer than necessary, thus resulting in uneven pacing especially at the halfway point. However, all major characters are fully fleshed out while the drama does finish strongly, albeit a little rushed particularly in the last episode that brings closure to the overarching plot.

Renowned composer Roc Chen (阿鲲) provides the hauntingly evocative theme song for the production, Wei Man (微芒) which is beautifully performed by Cao Yang (曹洋).

Overall, Decoded is quite an engaging and well-acted drama that provides enough thrills and spills from the decently-rendered action sequences and depiction of spycraft, as well as more than a few emotive moments throughout. I find myself quite invested in Chen Xue Dong’s portrayal of Rong Jin Zhen in his journey of self discovery where he experiences much character development that results in a truly remarkable transformation.

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