Cang Lan Jue (2022)

This will blow you away

Enjoy this show once, twice, a thousand times! This show is what drew me into Asian drama and cinema.

In this show the realm of the gods is very much xianxia, while the Demon Lord's world and Orchid's recreational vehicle between worlds seemed very different. It wasnt the world-building that hooked me, it was the dialogue as soon as silly Orchid came onscreen. It was very irreverent and the more I watched the funnier it became. The soundtrack was amazing. The cinematic intelligence in LBFD was way above and beyond any USA production. What makes this show so perfect, funny and awesome? I wanted to know.

When I heard that Esther Yu, a strong woman in her own right (as opposed to her role as Orchid), greatly influenced the LBFD production with constructive ideas drawn from kdrama, I had to find out more. I learned eventually and happily that although fantasy combined with irony in western cinema is not always successful, it is a fully mastered and developed style in asian cinema of all kinds.

So.....watch and laugh and cry (the ending is amazing).

ps. This review is a perfect illustration of my review philosophy -- we write as a group and my chosen parameter is not to be a judge of works I dont like, but a cheerleader for those I do. There are so many great reviewers with beautiful prose and good analytical skills who work on shows like this. I have chosen to define my contribution as an attempt to amuse and entice people who like my style to watch great shows.

first posted on viki april 27th 20214

Citeste mai mult

❤️❤️❤️LOVED!❤️❤️❤️

I absolutely ADORED this! ❤️ The chemistry between our ML and FL was SO cute and sweet! 🥰 They’re progression of love was very natural, and times quite amusing. Especially when our ML doesn’t understand the feeling of being jealous. 😉 I really enjoyed the music. I was also pleased at how they wrapped up all the characters endings so you weren’t wondering what had happened to them. I really felt the second ML deserved better though, that’s probably the only disappointment factor I had. 😔
However with that said, I will DEFINITELY rewatch this again and again and again!😉❤️❤️

Citeste mai mult

This drama is simply the best

This drama is very touching as the anime of the same title and story was very funy made the drama is made to be very dramatic abd tragic and I love the ending of this drama alot...the drama does have some funny moments as well as it also makes you very sad and to cry at some moments and also the reason I value this sad drama ending is partly because I love sad moments in dramas for some odd reason and also because that kind of ending fit perfectly to the drama but also I love how in the end it all ended up that both main male character ended up having favor beyond just mere friendship by a female main character but both were actually at positive success and that is something its never seen in any other drama I have ever watched

Citeste mai mult

Love That Ascends All

I would like to preface this by saying that I actively avoid 仙侠 (xianxia) dramas, as the CGI always feels off-putting. For those who used to feel similar, this is your sign to give this series a chance.

Love Between Fairy and Devil is a masterpiece. It is well-rounded in every major aspect. The cast is phenomenal, and everyone truly brought these characters to life in a convincing and multi-dimensional way. Esther Yu (小兰花 / Xiao Lan Hua / "Orchid") and Dylan Wang (东方青苍 / Dong Fang Qing Cang / "Moon Supreme") have undeniable chemistry. Both brought to this production absolutely praise-worthy performances that will leave a lasting impression in your heart.

I wish to give a shout-out to Esther because some have found the female lead annoying/fake. Those who are familiar with Esther from Youth With You 2 will know that in real life, she has a lively personality very similar to Orchid. The producers intentionally cast her for good reason. That is indeed her real voice. Personally, I found her character funny, endearing, and lovable from beginning to end. From the body swap scenes to the final episodes, she demonstrated impressive acting range, skill, and sincerity for this role.

The story and overall pacing is excellent. It is not perfection, nor is the story particularly groundbreaking in and of itself. However, the cast and production team took the story in front of them, presented it well, and told it with love. The story progresses steadily, with momentum, and with tension at just the right points. Pared down, this is a heartfelt love story that will remind you of love, make you rethink your perspective on love, and perhaps rekindle some of it in your own heart.

Lastly, the CGI and the musical score of this drama is outstanding. Not once did the CGI disrupt my immersion in the drama as a viewer. Rather, every episode had moments of breathtaking CGI beauty that literally made me gasp and admire the artistic vision and level of post-production effort that went into this series. Overall, Love Between Fairy and Devil is a fantasy stunner. The scenery, costumes, battle scenes, and overall world-building is commendable. Adding to the visual feast and completing the picture is an incredible soundtrack. The songs, as well as instrumental tracks, blend perfectly with the scenes they are paired with and elevates the emotional experience.

Sit back, relax, and give this memorable gem a chance.

Citeste mai mult

I DIDN'T KNOW, forgive me <3 <3 <3

This is the first time I have EVER fully watched a Chinese fantasy drama and I am kinda mad I never gave one a chance before now. This is NOT my regular genre preference at all, I normally love modern c-dramas, specifically youth or school related types. I decided to watch, "Love Between Fairy and Devil," simply because I was curious about the casting for the main couple. I am so glad I decided to watch this because it was phenomenal! I cried and laughed the whole way through. If you've never watched a fantasy c-drama, I implore you to definitely try this one out there is so much intrigue, romance, and beautiful imagery. I loved this show so so much, and I have a bit of a drama hangover now that it's over.


Things I LOVED:

1.) MAIN COUPLE. Esther Yu and Dylan Wang, were THE couple. I need them to have another drama, be it modern, youth, fantasy, historical or whatever genre, they have to be a drama couple again. This is a NEED, not a WANT. Their chemistry was electric and I ate every little interaction uppp!

2.) TROPES. The use of the "Grumpy/Sunshine" or "Good/Evil," trope was EVERYTHING. I didn't realize how much I like when the villain gets the girl. The amount of times I replayed all the scenes where DFQC swooped in to save our girl, was ridiculous. It was just so hot, I don't even know how to explain it.

3.) DYLAN WANG, did an an amazing job in this role. Whoever cast him knew what they were doing because I can't get over DongFang QingCang. He was evil yet adorable, like how is that even possible???

4.) HE STAYS DARK (kinda). Dongfang QingCang's character arch was perfect IMO. I really appreciate that they didn't make him become a fully pure hero, he gained his emotions, but he was still morally gray in some ways and I loved that.

5.)THE CURSE. I loved the use of the, "One Heart Curse." It offered great comedic relief in the beginning and later on it played a key role in the most tragic moments. Truly it can't even be called a curse because the amount of times they were able to save each other because of it was undeniable.

6.) ESTHER YU AS ORCHID, was the cutest thing ever, argue with the wall if you think otherwise. She was an adorable hyper girl, but I appreciated that she wasn't an idiot; she caught on to things pretty fast and was proactive. Go, little miss goddess, go!

7.) THE CGI was actually pretty beautiful especially in the Arbiter Hall and the Xilan Holy lands. This was something I was wary about going in, but after a couple episodes, I got used to it.

8.) THE STORY was not that complex, surprisingly. When I initially started watching I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to follow along very well, but they do a good job of not complicating things too much. There are a lot of smaller details that could be overlooked, but the main storyline never strays IMO.

THINGS I DIDN'T CARE FOR:

1.) JIELI. Omfg, I wanted to throttle her character so many times. She had so many opportunities to make better choices and she ALWAYS (except for one time), chose to be a backstabbing, greedy, annoying, thief. I also hated how self deprecating she was when confronted. The gaslighting was insane, her excuse every time was that she was the way that she was because of her tragic childhood. I understood her trauma in the beginning, but I quickly got sick of it, because after every time she was caught she threw it in everyone's faces for sympathy and forced understanding. She was an awful friend to Orchid too. Just annoying all around. No hate to the actress tho, she's beautiful and clearly played her character well.

2.) Honestly, hot take, but I felt that LADY CHIDI, was ultimately pretty useless. They all tried so hard to snatch up her primordial spirit, only for it not to be used in the end. My girl, Orchid is the one who saved everyone and righted all the wrongs. Lady Chidi's character could probably be cut out of the whole middle and end of the drama and you would still be able to understand the entire storyline. She was destined to die and should have stayed that way IMO.

3.) RANGHAO, wasn't just evil but very creepy. I couldn't get a good read on his true intentions. Was he in love with Lady Chidi? Did he see her as a mother figure? What exactly did he want after he revived her? It's hard to believe he became a murder for 30,000 years collecting "evil qi," just to play the gd flute for her, sword fight and keep her company for the rest of eternity. He was the character that confused me the most because he quickly went from typical villain to creepo real fast.

4.) ORCHID, should have had more fight scenes after realizing her true identity. That's my only complaint about her character, there was so much potential for her to become a super badass heroine. Her action scenes were mostly in the beginning with her basic plant fairy powers and at the very end with her recovered goddess powers. I kept waiting for her to unleash hell on all her enemies as a the Xishun Goddess, but it never came. I still loved her tho, this complaint is mainly directed at the writing of the story.

5.) THE LAST WEDDING SCENE. Basically the entire reason I watched this show was because I wanted to see DFQC crash Orchid and ChangHeng's immortal wedding, but I was a teensy bit disappointed that he didn't do it because he was jealous, but because he was possessed by TaiSui the evil spirit dude, he still looked hot tho with his extra evil makeover (white hair, completely black eyes and dark markings on his skin). The TikTok edits really got me with this one ngl.

6.) THE ENDING. WTF. What is this horrible new C-drama trend where the main couples have a happy ending, but its literally 3 minutes long (I actually timed it for this drama, out of curiosuity). So unjust, like honestly. On the one hand I am overjoyed that they could be together and in love again, but on the other hand I was pissed that we couldn't even get a glimpse at their future and more of their happiness. UGH. It was still sweet and made me cry happy tears, but after everything they went through they deserved so much more IMO. After proposing and beginning to plan it, I wish Orchid and DFQC could have had their own wedding scene :(


Watch this, its so amazing and I loved every second of the 36 episodes that were released. It was a great first Xianxia/Wuxia Chinese drama, I couldn't have asked for a better introduction into the genre. I highly recommend it for anyone trying to get into these types of dramas for the first time, as well. Don't be dissuaded by the length, it went by pretty quick because you get sucked in so much. I am normally a huge binge watcher, but I paced this one out because of the episode length over the course of one week and it was well worth it. I think giving myself more time allowed for better comprehension of the world building, story line and the many details explained along the way. Truly loved this one, and now I can't wait to start another fantasy
C-drama, I think this has sparked a new addition.

P.S. I would have given this drama a 10, if not for that ending. They needed a longer reunion, and I will never stop talking about this.

P.P.S. Prepare tissues for episodes 30-36 (especially ep.31) !!! I cried so hard my eyes literally swelled shut. You have been WARNED! (So worth it tho, it was a beautiful story so don't avoid it because of a couple of sad scenes, it was all amazing I swear.)

-A

Citeste mai mult

I started and dropped this drama three times before finishing it. The biggest problem I had with it was the Orchid fairy character. I rarely enjoy dramas where the female lead character is artless, naive, and not too bright. There was also something about Esther Yu's wide-eyed delivery that exacerbated all of those characteristics. But I kept hearing such glowing reviews about the drama that I pushed through to the end. I think I understand why people like it. Both the Esther Yu and Dylan Wang characters do evolve over time. There is some welcome humor to leaven the plot. Plus the costumes and sets are alternately beautiful and over-the-top campy, which made it fun. I also liked the Dan Yin and Jie Li characters.

Citeste mai mult

Defies all expectations

When this drama first came out, many thought it would fall flat with its leads. Little did they know, this is both Dylan's and Esther's magnum opus, topping iQiyi's charts. It's a beautifully thought-out romance with great acting, endearing characters, and a compelling pacing. That being said, I might be doing some comparisons with 'Til the End of the Moon' here simply because both have a similar concept in terms of characters : )

Defying all expectations just like this drama (very cringy, I know), I'm going to start by writing about the OST. This is probably the single best OST that's ever graced a C-drama. There's been good ones, for example 'The Long Ballad', 'The Untamed', and 'Til the End of the Moon,' but oh my. This one is beautifully done, with the songs representing the characters' emotions and thoughts in all the right ways. The lyrics are touching and the melodies are achingly beautiful; considering I'm a classical musician (violinist who appreciates mostly classics), I was surprised to find myself enjoying an OST as I almost never do (I just start off with a base of 7 as the OST score). I didn't even skip the starting and ending of the episodes just to listen to the OST many times- it's that good.

I guess where this drama really did hit it out of the park is the acting. From the body swaps (must be very difficult to portray... the characters are completely opposite in terms of personality and demeanor) to the characters in dramatic scenes (Orchid dies the first time, etc.), everything is perfectly portrayed. While Esther Yu played her roles nicely, I did not find anything too special about it... Dylan Wang however really surprised me. The subtle facial expressions, changes in demeanor, and substantial nuances in his performance were effective and vital to really bringing Dongfang Qingcang alive (which he did). You cried for this character, laughed for this character, and cheered for him if you watched this drama. The only performance in a C-drama that I think beats this by a tad is Luo Yunxi in 'Til the End of the Moon', mostly because that one's incredible when it comes to portraying the multiple facets and fates of a single character. Additionally, the demon king in this one is more romance-focused while the other drama is more story-focused overall. If you're looking for a romance drama, I'd definitely recommend this one. If you're looking for an epic fantasy, I'd probably recommend the other one : )

I think the story is where this drama loses a little bit of its appeal for me. It's definitely a great story and worth watching, with fewer plot holes than my favorites and also including the most compelling romance of all. Yet, I do think the plot sacrifices some of its complexity for the sake of the romance, and there aren't as many arcs/ideas as I typically enjoy. Nevertheless, it's one of the best Xianxia's out there. I'd compare this plot to maybe 'the Untamed' in terms of how much it explores iykwim- it's not completely idea-jam-packed but definitely has enough of them to keep you watching. However, the romance is the best executed I've seen, so for the fantasy-romance lovers, you'll enjoy this. Like many others, I did find the ending rushed, but I guess the directors had ten minutes to serve up something happy for the sweet romance lovers...

Either way, this is a beautiful and well-rounded drama overall. It's enjoyable for I'd think all audiences and definitely takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions (WARNING: also fries your brain for maybe a week).

Citeste mai mult

So this is love ❤️

Wow!!! AMAZING from start to finish! I LOVE this show and it ranks in my top 3 of all time (Nirvana in Fire & Joy of Life). Was gist of the story new? Nope! Were their familiar tropes? Of course! But we’re they able to make it feel fresh?!? ABSOLUTELY!! DFQC & Orchid complemented each other well and were able to grow as a individuals and as a couple! Their acting was AMAZING! I felt every joy and heartache with them. The supporting casts were not one dimensional and all had reasons behind their actions. Everything made sense (for the most part).

I know many people (including myself) had major issues w/Orchid’s voice and some of the choices she made. However, after awhile, her voice no longer bothered me. As for her actions, she remained true to her character - she was kind, caring, and empathetic. That’s why she made the choices she made throughout the show. Some may see her as dumb or annoying, but I only saw her kindness and her wish for a peaceful world. Who wouldn’t want that?!? I loved Orchid & DFQC’s relationship. It was so nice to see adults who love each other communicate their wants and needs, and be able to accept each others choices. It was refreshing!

As for the 2nd ML Cheng Heng, wow, did I love him too! Oftentimes I feel that 2nd ML (and FL) are often at a disadvantage because they’re portrayed as less than compared to the ML so of course the FL would love the ML instead. However, Cheng Heng was a hero in his own right & in any other show, he would’ve gotten the girl. I loved his growth as a character too! But alas! Everything in life is fate- except love.

Lastly, the show was beautiful - music, design, CGI, and costumes. I loved how the three realms were distinct in culture and clothing. One of the most BEAUTIFUL shows I’ve seen in a looooong time!

Citeste mai mult

Great fantasy story, with creative writing.

Thoughts:
My gateway drama. I wish they had given more time to when they are finally together without all the challenges. I would have liked to see more of their happy life at the end of the journey.

Plot:
Epic fantasy story about an anti-hero who is misunderstood and a FL who is underestimated.

Action/Martial Arts: Minimal
Romance: Main theme
Hidden/Unknown Identities: Yes
Past Connection: No
Time Skip: No
Separated: Yes
Amnesia: Faked
Love Triangle: Yes
LD Chemistry: No fish kisses. Connection feels real.
Evil/Troubled Supporting LD's: ML's brother is a problem in the beginning.
Parents/Family: 2ML's brother is an issue and is constantly trying to control him.
Misunderstandings: Not between LD's.

LD's
Eventually becomes power couple. ML chases FL first. ML is supportive but possessive/jealous. Not in a creepy way. Loved the way the LD's grew into their original intended personalities together.

Support LD's:
Great side stories for SL that explain their actions and intentions.

OST:
I have saved this OST to my playlist. Enough said.

Citeste mai mult

I'M A CHANGED WOMEN

I honestly have no words when I started watching this drama I knew there would be some level of enjoyment based of the premise alone but what I got instead was a heartwarming, gut-wrenching, iconic and beautiful love story that had me laughing in one episode and crying in another.

I love each character the lead couple did what they needed to do and did it flawlessly I was rooting for them from start to finish but what I didn't expect was for my heart to be stolen so quickly by the secondary couple they had me in a chokehold and I had no chance of getting out.

If I had one complaint it would be the decision to not have danyin and changheng end up together or at least hint at them trying to "date" each other, they had the chemistry and honestly it felt like unnecessary torture to have them not get a happily ever after and they would be amazing together *in my humble opinion*

Besides the romance aspect the story was really well written too every action the characters took made sense, their development felt natural and I never felt the narrative was bending a character so that the plot could move forward.

There is still so much more I wish to say but that would leave me rambling on for far too long. This show is amazing every episode was meant to be there, the story never felt like it was dragging along and that made me very happy.

Citeste mai mult