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Link Click
(Shiguang Dailiren)
Two photographers with the ability to enter photographs relive their clients' pasts, altering events to fulfill their wishes, but soon discover the dangerous consequences of tampering with time.
Details
Produced by LAN Studio and Haoliners Animation
Episodes 23 ongoing
Rated PG13.
Link Click is a Chinese animated series (donghua) produced by LAN Studio and Haoliners Animation League. It premiered in April 2021.
The genre is a unique blend of science fiction, mystery, thriller, and supernatural elements.
MyAnimeList - 8.68 (366k ratings)
IMDB - 8.5 (4.1k ratings)
Positive
  • Engaging Story: The unique premise of time travel through photographs and the emotional depth of the characters are praised for creating a compelling narrative.
  • Strong Characters: The two main characters, Cheng Xiaoshi and Lu Guang, have complex personalities and a captivating dynamic.
  • Emotional Depth: The show tackles mature themes like loss, trauma, and regret in a thoughtful way.
  • Visuals: The stunning animation and attention to detail in the visuals are consistently praised.
Negative
  • Pacing: Some viewers find the pacing uneven, with certain episodes feeling rushed or slow.
  • Complex Plot: The time travel mechanics and the overall plot can be confusing at times.
  • Limited Exposition: Some viewers desire more explanation about the characters' backstories and the origins of their powers.
Animation Style
Creative Use of Visual Effects
The show utilizes visual effects to enhance the storytelling and create a unique visual language.
Smooth and Dynamic Movement
The animation is fluid and dynamic, with smooth transitions between scenes and expressive character actions.
Cinematography-Inspired Shots
The animation often employs cinematic techniques like tracking shots, close-ups, and dutch angles.
Muted Tones and Contrasting Colors
The color palette features muted tones with occasional pops of bright, contrasting colors.
Overall Impression
Shiguang Dailiren, also known as Link Click, is a critically acclaimed Chinese animated series that has amassed a massive cult following due to its unique time travel premise, compelling characters, profound emotional depth, and breathtaking animation quality.
While not without minor flaws, the overwhelming consensus from reviews is that Shiguang Dailiren is a must-watch masterpiece for fans of mystery, thriller, and science fiction genres.
The excellent reception has secured Shiguang Dailiren a third season. After the conclusion of the highly anticipated second season in September 2023, the official Link Click social media accounts confirmed that the series will continue its captivating narrative.
My Take
Story
Link Click immediately captivated me with its unique premise and suspenseful storytelling. The concept of people who can enter photographs to alter the past was intriguing, and each episode was a thrilling journey, filled with unexpected twists and turns.
Characters
The characters, Cheng Xiaoshi and Lu Guang, were incredibly compelling, each possessing both strengths and vulnerabilities. Their evolving friendship throughout the series was a heartwarming and engaging aspect. The excellent voice acting further enhanced their dynamic and brought them to life, making the viewing experience even more immersive.
Themes
One of the show's greatest strengths is its exploration of profound and mature themes through the lens of time travel. It delved into the consequences of changing the past, the burden of regret, and the complexities of the human experience. It transcended the sci-fi thriller genre, offering a thought-provoking exploration of human emotions and relationships.
Animation
Visually, Link Click is superb. The animation is breathtaking, with stunning shots, creative camera angles, and unique effects that add an artistic flair. The cinematography is equally impressive, effectively balancing fast-paced action with moments of reflection and beauty.
Fan Service
The anime features a touch of fan service, but it doesn't overshadow or detract from the narrative. Instead, it adds further complexity to the characters. The character designs draw clear inspiration from K-pop idols, incorporating stylish haircuts, trendy clothing, and certain mannerisms like hair flicks and dramatic poses that appeal to fans of this aesthetic.
Overall Impression
Overall, Link Click is a unique blend of mystery, thriller, sci-fi, and drama that defies categorisation. It consistently surprises with its twists and turns, leaving a lasting impact long after viewing. If you're seeking a fresh and thought-provoking anime, I highly recommend giving it a chance.
#anime, #chineseanime #underrated #hiddengem
Story 8 - Plot Pace 8 - Characters 8 - Animation 9
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