Acting School

My Thoughts on Acting School

"Acting School" promised a blend of drama, fantasy, romance, and slice-of-life within the often-glamorous, sometimes cutthroat world of entertainment. After diving in, I found it to be a generally enjoyable read, though with a few quirks that kept it from reaching its full potential.

First Impressions

The premise is intriguing: Zhuang Qin, our MC, gets a second chance, going back to his younger self. This allows him to navigate the entertainment world with the benefit of hindsight. His initial meeting with Li Mu, the ML, sets the stage for what's to come. I was immediately drawn to the idea of witnessing his journey as he tries to avoid past mistakes.

What Works Well

One of the strongest aspects of "Acting School" is the detailed portrayal of acting scenarios, particularly the vivid descriptions of the first film the MC is involved in. I felt truly immersed in the creative process and the interactions between the characters during filming. Many readers also appreciated the MC's personality, especially his kindness and patience. He's not a Mary Sue, but he's remarkably tolerant, which can be both a strength and a weakness. The ML, while fitting the "cold and handsome" archetype, has a few unique traits that make him interesting, like his germaphobia and concern for aesthetics. I also liked that the plot is relatively smooth and avoids heavy drama, making it a light and easy read. The author does a good job of showcasing the MC's development as he transitions from actor to director.

Areas of Concern

While I enjoyed the overall story, I did have some reservations. The side characters could have been developed further. Many of them appear and then disappear, leaving me wondering about their fates. The translation could also use some polish. While understandable, the errors can be distracting. The MC's tolerance is a double-edged sword; at times, it felt unrealistic, especially considering his age and past experiences. Some readers might find the MC's naivete frustrating. Additionally, the ML sometimes veers into "overbearing president" territory, which can be off-putting.

Final Verdict

Overall, "Acting School" is a decent read with a likeable protagonist and an engaging setting. While it has its flaws, the detailed acting scenes and the gentle romance make it worth checking out if you're looking for a light and easy entertainment novel. I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.