Are you a fan of C-drama? What kind of C-drama do you like watching? Wuxia or modern?
Chinese wuxia drama is a popular genre in Chinese television and film that features martial arts, romance, and drama. The term "wuxia" literally means "martial heroes" in Chinese, and the genre is known for its epic fight scenes, intricate plot lines, and larger-than-life characters.
Wuxia dramas often feature stories of heroes and heroines who seek justice and fight for what is right, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds. They also frequently explore themes of loyalty, honor, and sacrifice, as well as love and friendship. Let's check the must-watch Chinese wuxia drama below:
1. Ashes of Love (2018)
"Ashes of Love (香蜜沉沉烬如霜)" is a Chinese wuxia fantasy romance drama that premiered in 2018. The show is based on the novel "Heavy Sweetness, Ash-like Frost" by Dian Xian and is set in a world of gods, demons, and mortals.
The story follows the character of Jinmi (played by Yang Zi), a flower fairy who falls in love with Xufeng (played by Deng Lun), the prince of the Heavenly Emperor. However, their love is complicated by their own personal demons and the machinations of the gods and demons around them.
"Ashes of Love" is notable for its intricate plot, beautiful visuals, and well-developed characters. The drama features stunning action sequences, as well as beautiful cinematography and special effects that bring the world of gods and demons to life. The story also explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the balance between good and evil.
One unique aspect of "Ashes of Love" is its incorporation of elements of Chinese mythology and folklore into the story. The drama draws on traditional Chinese beliefs about the afterlife, magic, and the supernatural to create a rich and immersive setting that feels both familiar and otherworldly.
2. Love Better Than Immortality (2019)
"Love Better Than Immortality (天雷一部之春花秋月)" is a 2019 Chinese drama series that features Zhao Lusi and Li Hongyi in the lead roles. The drama is based on the popular novel "Through the Thunder Sky" by Shu Ke. The series has 40 episodes, and it was produced by Tencent Penguin Pictures.
The drama is set in a world where immortals exist and are highly respected. The story follows the journey of two individuals, Shangguan Qiu Yue (played by Li Hongyi) and Chun Hua (played by Zhao Lusi), who meet and fall in love.
"Love Better Than Immortality" is a series that combines elements of romance, fantasy, and mystery. The chemistry between the lead actors, Zhao Lusi and Li Hongyi, is one of the highlights of the series, and their performances have been praised by viewers and critics alike.
3. The Untamed (2019)
"The Untamed (陈情令)" is a Chinese wuxia drama that first premiered in 2019. It is based on the novel "Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation" by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. The drama was a massive hit in China and internationally, winning several awards and gaining a dedicated fan base.
The story follows the adventures of two cultivators, Wei Wuxian (played by Xiao Zhan) and Lan Wangji (played by Wang Yibo), as they navigate the world of wuxia and attempt to uncover a dark conspiracy that threatens their world. Along the way, they encounter a cast of colorful and compelling characters and engage in thrilling battles with supernatural creatures.
"The Untamed" is notable for its strong character development, intricate plot, and beautiful cinematography. The drama's themes are centered around friendship, loyalty, and love, and it explores these themes in a nuanced and emotional way. The drama also features a captivating romance between the two male leads, which has been praised for its portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters in Chinese media.
4. Joy of Life (2019)
"Joy of Life (庆余年)" is a Chinese wuxia drama that first premiered in 2019. The drama is based on the novel "Qing Yunian" by Mao Ni, and it was a critical and commercial success in China.
The story follows the adventures of Fan Xian (played by Zhang Ruoyun), a young man from a noble family who discovers a dark conspiracy that threatens the stability of the kingdom. As Fan Xian delves deeper into the conspiracy, he uncovers secrets about his own past and realizes that he has a vital role to play in saving his country.
"Joy of Life" is notable for its complex and well-developed characters, intricate plot, and lavish production values. The drama features stunning cinematography, elaborate costumes and sets, and a sweeping score that captures the epic scope of the story.
But what really sets "Joy of Life" apart is its clever mix of genres. While it is primarily a wuxia drama, it also incorporates elements of political intrigue, comedy, romance, and even science fiction. The drama's eclectic blend of genres keeps the story fresh and engaging throughout its 46-episode run.
Overall, "Joy of Life" is a must-watch for fans of wuxia, historical drama, and epic storytelling. It is a well-crafted and entertaining drama series that will keep you hooked from the beginning to the end.
5. Princess Silver (2019)
"Princess Silver (白发)" is a Chinese wuxia romance drama that premiered in 2019. The drama is set during the Tang Dynasty and follows the story of a princess named Rong Le (played by Sophie Zhang) who is forced into hiding after her family is betrayed and killed by a trusted official.
The story begins with Rong Le assuming the identity of a palace maid to avoid capture, where she meets Wu You (played by Aarif Rahman), a prince who is infatuated with her beauty and intelligence. As their relationship grows, they must navigate the complex political landscape of the Tang Dynasty and confront those who seek to harm them.
"Princess Silver" is notable for its beautiful costumes and sets, intricate plot, and strong performances. The drama features stunning visuals and engaging music, as well as well-choreographed fight scenes and thrilling plot twists.
One unique aspect of "Princess Silver" is its portrayal of the relationship between Rong Le and Wu You. Unlike many historical dramas, "Princess Silver" features a strong female lead who is not defined by her romantic relationships. Rong Le is a complex and multi-dimensional character who is not afraid to stand up for herself and fight for what she believes in.
6. Novoland: Eagle Flag (2019)
"Novoland: Eagle Flag (九州缥缈录)" is a Chinese wuxia drama that premiered in 2019. The show is based on the popular Novoland novels and is set in a fantastical world full of magic, mythical beasts, and political intrigue.
The story follows the adventures of three young heroes from different tribes: Lü Guichen (played by Liu Haoran), a prince from the Qingyang Tribe; Ji Ye (played by
Chen Ruoxuan), a warrior from the Human Tribe; and Yu Ran (played by
Song Zuer), a princess from the Winged Tribe. As they navigate the dangerous and ever-changing landscape of Novoland, they must confront hidden enemies and discover the truth behind their past and present.
"Novoland: Eagle Flag" is notable for its stunning visuals, intricate world-building, and well-developed characters. The drama features elaborate costumes and sets, as well as dazzling special effects that bring the world of Novoland to life. The story also explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and identity, as the characters struggle to find their place in a world full of conflict and uncertainty.
One unique aspect of "Novoland: Eagle Flag" is its incorporation of Chinese mythology and culture into the story. The drama draws on elements of Chinese history and folklore to create a rich and immersive setting that feels both familiar and otherworldly.
7. Love and Destiny (2019)
"Love and Destiny (宸汐缘)" is a Chinese wuxia, fantasy romance drama that premiered in 2019. The drama is directed by Lin Yufen, who is known for his work on "Eternal Love" and "Ashes of Love."
The story follows the adventures of a deity named Ling Xi (played by Ni Ni) who is banished to the mortal world and loses her memories. There, she meets a mortal man named Jiu Chen (played by Chang Chen) who helps her regain her memories and find her way back to the divine realm. Along the way, they must navigate a world full of danger and intrigue, all while trying to overcome their own personal demons.
"Love and Destiny" is notable for its beautiful cinematography, intricate plot, and strong performances. The drama features stunning visuals, elaborate costumes and sets, and breathtaking special effects that transport the viewer to a world of magic and wonder. The story also explores themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the complexities of love, as the characters are forced to make difficult choices that will affect their lives and the world around them.
One unique aspect of "Love and Destiny" is its blending of Chinese mythology and fantasy elements with a traditional romance story. The drama draws on elements of Taoism and Chinese folklore to create a rich and immersive setting that feels both familiar and otherworldly.
8. Legend of Awakening (2020)
"Legend of Awakening (天醒之路)" is another Chinese wuxia and fantasy martial arts drama that premiered in 2020. The drama is based on the novel "Heaven Awakening Path" by Hu Dielan and is set in a world of martial arts, magic, and supernatural powers.
The story follows the character of Lu Ping (played by Chen Feiyu), a young man who discovers he has the ability to see and control spiritual energy. As he learns to harness his powers, he becomes entangled in a conspiracy involving a mysterious organization known as the Heavenly Alliance.
"Legend of Awakening" is notable for its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and stunning action sequences. The drama features elaborate fight scenes, as well as beautiful cinematography and special effects that bring the world of martial arts to life. The story also explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the struggle for power, as the characters must navigate a world full of danger and intrigue.
One unique aspect of "Legend of Awakening" is its focus on the concept of spiritual energy and its importance in the world of martial arts. The drama draws on elements of traditional Chinese philosophy to create a unique and immersive setting.
9. Love and Redemption (2020)
"Love and Redemption (琉璃)" is one of the must-watch Chinese wuxia and fantasy romance drama that premiered in 2020. The drama is based on the novel "The Glass Maiden" by Shi Silang and is set in a world of martial arts, magic, and supernatural powers.
The story follows the character of Yu Si Feng (played by Cheng Yi), a young man who has been reincarnated multiple times and has been searching for his true love for centuries. Yu Si Feng finally meets his soulmate, Zhu Xuan Ji (played by Yuan Bingyan), a powerful sorceress who holds the key to breaking a curse that has plagued Yu Si Feng for centuries.
"Love and Redemption" is notable for its elaborate plot, beautiful visuals, and well-developed characters. The drama features stunning action sequences, as well as beautiful cinematography and special effects that bring the world of martial arts to life. The story also explores themes of love, destiny, and the balance between good and evil.
One unique aspect of "Love and Redemption" is its incorporation of elements of Chinese mythology and folklore into the story. The drama draws on traditional Chinese beliefs about the afterlife, reincarnation, and the supernatural to create a rich and immersive setting that feels both familiar and otherworldly.
10. Till the End of the Moon (2023)
"Till the End of the Moon (长月烬明)" is Chinese fantasy romance drama that premiered in 2013, starring Luo Yunxi and Bai Lu. The series aired on Youku with 40 episodes with a huge success during its premiere. The drama is based on the novel "Hei Yue Guang Na Wen BE Ju Ben" by eng Luo Wei Zhi and is set in a world of martial arts, magic, and supernatural powers.
The drama is about the Demon God Tantai Jin (played by Luo Yunxi), Li Susu (played by Bai Lu), daughter of Hengyang Sect's leader, travels back 500 years as Ye Xiwu and is tasked with preventing the young Tantai Jin from becoming the Demon God. Unbeknownst to her, Ye Xiwu is married to Tantai Jin, who is a hostage prince from the Kingdom of Jing. The two develop romantic feelings for each other, and Li Susu sacrifices herself to change the fate of Tantai Jin and the world.
After losing Li Susu, a grief-stricken Tantai Jin searches for her soul for 500 years and was rescued by a cultivation sect. He becomes a disciple of the Xiaoyou Sect and meets the reborn Li Susu again. Just as the two rekindle their love, the revelation of Tantai Jin's birth nature nonetheless brings the three realms into danger again. Facing a brutal fate, Tantai Jin sets in motion a plan and the two work together to stop the end of the world.
"Till the End of the Moon" is notable for its beautiful cinematography, intricate plot, and strong performances. The drama features stunning visuals, elaborate costumes and sets, and breathtaking special effects that transport the viewer to a world of magic and wonder. One unique aspect of "Till the End of the Moon" is its focus on the concept of spiritual energy and its importance in the world of martial arts.
Overall, the top 10 list drama above is a must-watch drama for fans of wuxia, fantasy, romance, and epic storytelling. It is a well-crafted and entertaining series that offers a fresh and exciting take on the genre. Let me know if any of your favorite dramas and/or actors in the this list.
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