A fast-paced mafia romance that does have its own disadvantages!!

Adapted from the web novel “Yan Hui” (烟灰) by Feng Nong (风弄), “Ash” introduces the fresh pairing of Leo Pang & Kingston. Whilst the show was airing, both actors gained worldwide popularity because of their rustic chemistry, both onscreen & offscreen. If you are expecting some flawless storytelling, then you might be disappointed. “Ash” doesn’t offer any unique script that could break the barriers like “KinnPorsche.” The show has intrigue, mystique and some extrapolated action scenes. The romance between a mafia don and a straight-laced police officer is surely addictive. It will surely take you back to the era when “HIStory3: Trapped” was airing. It is a underrated love story between two individuals from vastly different backgrounds, who shouldn’t be together!!

Storyline & Chemistry-

Undercover officer Mok Fei Foon (Kingston) unexpectedly crosses paths with Hui Leuk To (Leo Pang), the CEO of Tinping Group, while working on a secret operation. They end up having a one-night stand and Hui Leuk To discreetly starts spending time with him. As the operation ends, Mok Fei Foon ends up disappearing as a part of his undercover work. Since Hui Leuk To doesn’t know his true identity, he is left heartbroken. After feeling devastated for days, Hui Leuk To crosses paths with Mok Fei Foon again, who shares his real identity. They start dating and, unexpectedly, Mok Fei Foon is chosen to investigate TinPing Group’s shady dealings. As he secretly begins his investigations, suspicion arises.

Shockingly enough, Hui Leuk To decides to get married to his business partner. Hui Leuk To carelessly remarks that Mok Fei Foon can never be his partner publicly. Feeling hurt, Mok Fei Foon breaks up with him. Meanwhile, a major cross-border counterfeit operation exposes a brutal power struggle among local forces, drawing both the underworld and the police into a deadly game. Mok Fei Foon gets suspended when he unexpectedly ends up killing his colleague in self-defense. Using his suspension as an excuse, Mok Fei Foon infiltrates another mafia group while Hui Leuk To is left feeling guilty. In the midst of this confusion, Mok Fei Foon meets his long-lost childhood neighbor, Shawn (Sing Lee) who is obsessed with him.

Leo Pang & Kingston have awesome chemistry, their NC scenes are tastefully crafted. Their comfort levels shine through in all scenes; both actors embrace their character’s yearning and longing.

Final Impressions

Some shows live in your memories forever. This is one such love story!!

The script is oddly paced and there are loopholes which highlight budget constraints. But overall, the show lives upto the expectations set by the audiences. Obviously, Hui Leuk To’s obsession with Mok Fei Foon might seem over-the-top. But a guy in love, especially one who feels immensely guilty, would go to any extent for his loved one. Watch this show for romance & nothing else!!

Rating- 3.5 out of 5

Streaming on- YouKu