Days We Stared at the Sun (TV Show)

Title — Days We Stared at the Sun
Available on — Yidio, Google Play
Production Country — Taiwan
Release Date — 2017
A model student resorts to violence after witnessing greed and corruption wreak havoc on his life.

🪶 Story & Synopsis

Set in Taiwan, “Days We Stared at the Sun” is a compelling TV series that delves into the lives of two contrasting high school students, Chen Hao Yuan and Hong Cheng Yi. Chen is an honor student known for his calm demeanor, while Hong is a former delinquent who served time for bank robbery. Despite their differences, the two friends navigate through various challenges together.

Throughout the series, Chen and Hong tackle societal issues head-on, from aiding a classmate in overcoming drug addiction to uncovering their teacher’s hidden secrets. Their bond is tested as they embark on a quest to locate missing bees, believed to be a sign of an impending apocalyptic event in 2012.

Directed and written by Cheng Yu Chieh, “Days We Stared at the Sun” seamlessly blends elements of life, youth, and drama, offering viewers a raw and authentic portrayal of the characters’ struggles and triumphs. While the production values may not be extravagant, the series excels in its ability to capture the complexities of the protagonists’ lives.

The narrative takes a poignant turn when Chen and Hong’s carefree outlook on life transforms into a quest for justice and revenge upon discovering a corrupt politician’s involvement in their families’ misfortunes. The storyline evolves to showcase the intricate dynamics among a group of five friends, with three of them teetering on the brink of life-altering decisions.

As the sequel, “Days We Stared at the Sun II,” unfolds in a TV mini-series format in 2017, viewers are transported seven years into the future, witnessing the characters’ continued pursuit of authenticity and integrity in a world fraught with challenges and uncertainties. The sequel offers a deeper exploration of the protagonists’ growth and resilience as they navigate adulthood.

Starring Teresa Daley, Sean Huang, Jian He Wu, Doris Wang, Ma Nian Xian, and Vince Kao, the cast delivers powerful performances that breathe life into the multifaceted characters. Each actor embodies their role with authenticity, drawing viewers into the emotional complexities of the narrative.

Despite its nuanced approach to addressing social issues, some critics argue that the series may have tackled too many themes, leaving certain storylines underdeveloped. However, this flaw does not detract from the overall impact of “Days We Stared at the Sun,” which remains a poignant exploration of friendship, resilience, and the pursuit of truth.

🧑 Cast & Crew

Sean Huang, Chang Chia-yu, Wu Chien-ho, Teresa Daley, Yong Lea, Edison Song, Shan Cheng-ju, Iris Hu, Hsia Teng-hung

Actor Role
Teresa Daley Lin Xiao Rou (Main Role)
Sean Huang Chen Hao Yuan (Main Role)
Jian He Wu Hong Cheng Yi (Main Role)
Doris Wang Wang Ding Zhu (Main Role)
Ma Nian Xian Ma Sui (Support Role)
Vince Kao Teacher Wu (Support Role)

💬 Reviews and feedback

Welcome to the world where the sun shines a little brighter and friendships are forged in the unlikeliest of places! Today, we delve into the captivating realm of “Days We Stared at the Sun” TV show series. Buckle up as we navigate through honor students, delinquents, and a whole lot of drama!

Plot and Themes:

Set in a backdrop where contrasts collide, “Days We Stared at the Sun” explores the bond between Chen Hao Yuan, the studious honor student, and his delinquent best friend Hong Cheng Yi. The series intricately weaves together a narrative that is gritty, raw, and at times devastating, yet sprinkled with glimmers of hope.

Acting and Characters:

The performances in this series are nothing short of stellar. Chen Hao Yuan’s portrayal of an honor student with a mellow personality is both endearing and relatable. On the other hand, Hong Cheng Yi’s character is brought to life with depth and complexity by a talented actor. The chemistry between these two characters is palpable, drawing viewers into their tumultuous yet heartwarming friendship.

Direction and Cinematography:

The direction in “Days We Stared at the Sun” is top-notch, capturing the essence of each moment with precision. The cinematography beautifully complements the tone of the series, immersing viewers in its world of contrasts and complexities.

Production Design and Special Effects:

The production design in this series deserves applause for creating an authentic backdrop that enhances the storytelling. While not heavy on special effects, when they are used, they serve to elevate key moments without overshadowing the narrative.

Score and Editing:

The score in “Days We Stared at the Sun” enhances every scene with its emotive melodies. Additionally, the editing seamlessly weaves together different storylines, maintaining a pace that keeps viewers engaged throughout.

Pace and Dialog:

The pacing of this series strikes a perfect balance between moments of introspection and high-octane drama. The dialogues are sharp, poignant, and reflective of each character’s journey, adding layers to an already rich narrative.

Binge-watching Tips:

  • Keep tissues handy for those emotional rollercoaster moments!
  • Pay close attention to subtle character interactions for hidden gems.
  • Engage in post-episode discussions to delve deeper into themes explored.

As you embark on this journey with “Days We Stared at the Sun,” be prepared to be mesmerized by its compelling storytelling and nuanced characters. Each episode will leave you craving for more as you unravel the complexities of friendship against all odds.

So grab your popcorn, dim those lights, and immerse yourself in a tale where every moment counts under the sun!

Rating: 9/10

In conclusion, “Days We Stared at the Sun” shines bright as a must-watch TV show that will tug at your heartstrings while keeping you on the edge of your seat. Remember, just like staring at the sun itself can be mesmerizing yet intense – so is this riveting series!

Pros Cons
Gritty and raw portrayal May be too intense for some viewers
Devastating storyline Emotional impact might be overwhelming
Unlikely friendships depicted Some characters may not be relatable
Sequel explores characters in their 20s Continuation may not appeal to all viewers
Reflection on contemporary Taiwanese youth Themes may be too heavy for casual viewing

Feedback

  • Days We Stared at the Sun (TV Series 2010- ) - IMDb

    Days We Stared at the Sun

    • TV Series
    • 2010–
    • 50m

    Chen Hao Yuan is an honor student with a mellow personality. His best friend Hong Cheng Yi, on the other hand, is delinquent who did time in juvenile detention for bank robbery. Together the… Read allChen Hao Yuan is an honor student with a mellow personality. His best friend Hong Cheng Yi, on the other hand, is delinquent who did time in juvenile detention for bank robbery. Together they helped their classmate get off drug addiction, exposed their teacher’s dirty secrets, an… Read allChen Hao Yuan is an honor student with a mellow personality. His best friend Hong Cheng Yi, on the other hand, is delinquent who did time in juvenile detention for bank robbery. Together they helped their classmate get off drug addiction, exposed their teacher’s dirty secrets, and even tried to find the bees that have gone missing because of the upcoming 2012 apocalyp… Read all

  • Days We Stared at the Sun (TV Series 2010- ) - Episode list - IMDb

    Top-ratedS1.E1 ∙ Episode #1.1Sat, Dec 18, 2010Hao-Yuan’s random joke at school causes an unexpected consequence. One year later, he sneaks into the teacher’s office to look for evidence.7.6/10 (7)Rate

  • "Days We Stared at the Sun" Episode #1.1 (TV Episode 2010) - IMDb

    SPONSORED

    Episode #1.1

    • Episode aired Dec 18, 2010
    • 49m

    Hao-Yuan’s random joke at school causes an unexpected consequence. One year later, he sneaks into the teacher’s office to look for evidence.Hao-Yuan’s random joke at school causes an unexpected consequence. One year later, he sneaks into the teacher’s office to look for evidence.Hao-Yuan’s random joke at school causes an unexpected consequence. One year later, he sneaks into the teacher’s office to look for evidence.

    Photos

    SPONSOREDSean Huang

    • Chen Hao-Yuan
    • (as Yuan Huang)

    Chien-Ho Wu

    • Hong Cheng-Yi
    • (as Wu Jian-He)

    Chia-Yu Chang

  • Days We Stared at the Sun (2010) - Episodes - MyDramaList

    Days We Stared at the Sun Episode 1Days We Stared at the Sun Episode 2Days We Stared at the Sun Episode 3Days We Stared at the Sun Episode 4Days We Stared at the Sun Episode 5Trending ArticlesAutopsying Queen of Tears

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  • Days We Stared at the Sun (TV Series 2010-2017) - The Movie Database (TMDB)

    Login to use TMDB’s new rating system.

    Overview

    Chen Hao Yuan is an honor student with a mellow personality. His best friend Hong Cheng Yi, on the other hand, is delinquent who did time in juvenile detention for bank robbery. Together they helped their classmate get off drug addiction, exposed their teacher’s dirty secrets, and even tried to find the bees that have gone missing because of the upcoming 2012 apocalypse. Their carefree attitude toward life turned to rage when they discovered that a corrupted politician was responsible for both of their families’ misfortunes. The boys got a gun and decided to explode the day before their high school graduation.

⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)

In the movie “Aftersun,” the story revolves around a 30-year-old single father named Calum and his 11-year-old daughter Sophie who go on a holiday to Turkey to celebrate Calum’s upcoming birthday. Throughout the film, subtle hints suggest that Calum is struggling with mental health issues. The vacation seems like a typical family trip on the surface, but there is an underlying sense of unease.

The poignant ending of “Aftersun” is open to interpretation and has left many viewers contemplating its meaning. The final scenes depict a moment where adult Sophie seems to confront Calum at a rave, expressing her distress towards him. The sequence intertwines with flashbacks to their time at the resort, symbolizing a blend of past and present, innocence and loss.

As the movie concludes, we see adult Sophie watching footage from their holiday on a monitor, suggesting that Calum has passed away, possibly by suicide. The ambiguous nature of the ending prompts viewers to speculate on the significance of the rave scene and its connection to Sophie’s memories and emotions.

Director Charlotte Wells intentionally leaves the ending open to individual interpretation, emphasizing the emotional impact of the loss experienced by the characters. The unresolved elements of the conclusion allow for diverse perspectives on the story, encouraging viewers to reflect on the themes of grief, memory, and the complexities of familial relationships portrayed in the film.

👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating

TV-MA

Age Rating and Parental Guide:

Days We Stared at the Sun TV Show is a drama series that explores themes of friendship, redemption, and uncovering secrets. Here is a detailed parental guide to help you decide if this show is suitable for your child:

Age Rating Parental Guide
Age 16+
  • Sex & Nudity: The show contains minimal sexual content and no nudity.
  • Violence & Gore: There are scenes depicting violence, including references to robbery and drug addiction.
  • Profanity: Mild language and occasional use of profanity.
  • Other: Themes of friendship, redemption, and uncovering secrets are prevalent throughout the series.

Based on the content of Days We Stared at the Sun TV Show, it is recommended for viewers aged 16 and above due to the themes and depiction of violence. Parents are advised to watch an episode beforehand to determine if the content is appropriate for their teenagers.

📺 Streaming and where to watch

streaming service extra information
Yidio Available for streaming online with 2 seasons. Rating 7.9. First aired in 2010 on the Public Television Service.
Google Play You can buy and watch on Google Play. Download to watch offline or view on a big screen using Chromecast.

❝ Quotes and Cult

  • Chen Hao Yuan is an honor student with a mellow personality.
  • His best friend Hong Cheng Yi, on the other hand, is delinquent who did time in juvenile detention for bank robbery.
  • Together they helped their classmate get off drug addiction, exposed their teacher's dirty secrets, and even tried to find the bees that have gone missing because of the upcoming 2012 apocalypse.

🤖Days We Stared at the Sun Reddit Talks

Staring at the Sun: Potential Health Risks and Meditative Benefits

Staring directly at the sun can have detrimental effects on eye health, including solar retinopathy, pterygium, cataracts, and even blindness. However, some proponents of sun gazing, a meditative practice involving staring at the rising or setting sun, claim that it offers energy and healing benefits.

Safe Sun Gazing Practices

If you choose to practice sun gazing, it’s crucial to do so safely. The recommended time for sun gazing is during sunrise or sunset, for a duration of 30 minutes before and after these times. It’s important to note that even during these periods, it’s essential to avoid looking directly at the sun’s rays, as they can still cause damage to the eyes.

Personal Experiences with Sun Gazing

Some Reddit users shared their personal experiences with sun gazing. One user reported experiencing a purple spot in their vision after staring at the sun for 2-5 minutes, although their vision eventually recovered. Another user questioned the benefits of sun gazing, stating that they had never heard of it being beneficial.

Staring at the Sun in Music and Pop Culture

The concept of staring at the sun has also been explored in music and pop culture. The song “Staring at the Sun” by TV on the Radio has been interpreted as a metaphor for facing challenges and finding inner strength. The song’s lyrics, “You’re staring at the sun, oh my own voice cannot reach you,” suggest a sense of isolation and the struggle to connect with others.

Additional Considerations

It’s important to emphasize that staring directly at the sun, even with sunglasses, can be harmful to the eyes. Regular sunglasses do not provide adequate protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays. If you want to observe the sun, it’s recommended to use specialized solar filters or eclipse glasses designed for safe solar viewing.

Top discussions

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the plot of Days We Stared at the Sun TV Series?

Days We Stared at the Sun TV Series follows the story of Chen Hao Yuan, an honor student, and his delinquent best friend, Hong Cheng Yi. The series explores their unlikely friendship and the challenges they face, including dealing with trauma from the past and navigating the complexities of life.

Who are the main characters in Days We Stared at the Sun?

The main characters in Days We Stared at the Sun include Chen Hao Yuan, Hong Cheng Yi, Wang Ding Zhu, and other friends whose lives are intertwined in a tale of friendship, betrayal, and redemption.

What makes Days We Stared at the Sun TV Series stand out?

Days We Stared at the Sun is known for its gritty and raw portrayal of contemporary Taiwanese youth, with themes of friendship, struggle, and finding one’s place in the world. The series weaves together moments of devastation with glimmers of hope, making it a compelling and emotionally resonant watch.

Where can I watch Days We Stared at the Sun TV Series online?

Days We Stared at the Sun TV Series can be streamed online on platforms that offer Taiwanese dramas. You can find full episodes of the series available for viewing, allowing you to immerse yourself in the captivating narrative and character dynamics.

🔀 Recommended Movie and TV Show

Here is a list of similar movies and TV shows to “Days We Stared at the Sun TV Show”:

  1. Wave Makers: A drama series revolving around youth, friendship, and coming of age.
  2. Detention: A show that explores themes of youth and friendship in a unique setting.
  3. The World Between Us: A gripping drama series that delves into complex relationships and coming of age.
  4. A Sun: Another drama series that explores the dynamics of friendship and youth.
  5. Dear Tenant: A heartfelt drama that touches on themes of friendship and coming of age.
  6. A Touch of Green: A series that explores the complexities of relationships and youth.

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