Zhu Yan (2023)

A Very Pictureesque Fantasy Drama

This is the 2nd Fantasy cdrama that i've managed to finish, but also the 4th fantasy cdrama that i've looked into, and god! So far, this has the cleanest CGI. It's not perfect like the west does, but it's getting there.

What really blew me away in the beginning was the sets were very very beautiful, especially when they were in the mountains or like the illusionary places, it's very picturesque looking, like you could screenshot any scene that involved with those sets and I would legit print it and hang it on my wall, that's how good the sets are. They're probably using the latest tech, where you could film in the actual set and have the CGI set to move along with the camera. That's probably why it's very clean when the characters are in those places. Not only that, the lighting is also on point, it adds so much to the aesthetic of the backgrounds. When it comes to the magic powers, the CGI although, is not perfect, it's very jank at times, but it's still very clean. And you add the graceful fighting choreographies, like you wouldn't even mind the janky magic effects because the fighting scenes are very engrossing. One thing that disappoints me at times is that some of the fight scenes are very short, if not, sometimes it's very lacking, like it's being held back by the lack of talent to fully realize the vision or maybe the budget, but that's just a minor complaint in my opinion. One thing that felt scuffed in the CGI department is the creatures in this drama. For example, the divine bird is very jank, and in some scenes, it's not even HD. It gets pixelated at times. The cgi creatures are great, but it doesn't really blend in most of the time, aside from God of Dragon, like my god when he first showed up, it was great that i think most of the budget for the cgi creatures went into him. So yeah, there are janky moments in the CGI department, but again, it's very very clean for the most part. It doesn't deteriorate your viewing experience.

The story i think it's very slog in the beginning, like the first 10-15 or so episodes because they have to establish the characters and explain the magic system and the world in the drama, but once you get past that and make it to where episode 1 left off, that story will start picking up its pace and gets very good as you progress. Though i think aside from the romance aspect and the family politics that is going on, anything else wasn't really the focus in this series. And that's what sucks because even though i wasn't really into the politics, nor the family drama, i still wanted them to keep showing the boring parts just them talking and explaining everything about the world of this drama because it's interesting. But around the 2nd half, i gave up cuz the story is already so far that i doubt they would even bother explaining the intricacies. I think the story for me is at its best when it's just the romance or the dynamics between the mains, other than that is like a snooze fest, like i would sometimes bump up the play speed to 1.25 or 1.5, cuz again, for me they didn't really go all in on explaining the world that much so that's why i think i couldn't really care that much, aside from the romance aspect. And even though I find the romance as the best part of this show, it's not really perfect. I think in the beginning you would find it annoying, but because of the character developments and the series of challenges that went through, it got really good over time. I even find it really cute for the most part.

Now, the characters in this drama, i think they are all well-written. Each has their own goals and reasonings to keep pushing. As you spend more time with these characters, you get to understand why they are the characters the way they are. And i liked that, especially in the later parts when situations got complicated and the stakes were high. It shows that these characters have been put a lot of thought into. Even the interaction between these characters is such a delight, especially around the later parts after all the boring build-up you get to appreciate the characters when it is just silent and it's just them talking.

Alright, enough with praises. Now that i'm remembering it as i'm writing this review, i think the huoto tribe or that arc was such a filler for me, now that i'm thinking about it. like they only got a few episodes or screentime and then most of the higher ups killed themselves lmao xD Aside from zhu yan getting married off to the huotu prince and discovering the location of the Sea Emperor, for me, i think that part of the show didn't really leave such an impact on me. I think that is where i thought "Man! i really wanted them to expand on this tribe, because this is such a unique looking along with the crimson clan" but nope, that part felt flat for me.

The traveling in this drama is almost non existant or even the time passing because they wouldn't even spend that much time on the traveling scenes or bother showing the time passing, like couldn't they've at least put a caption 1 day later or 1 week later, like they are really strict on the screentime huh? You could have a character getting heavily injured that would take weeks or months of rest and then instantly cut to the next scene where he/she is already recovered without even telling the audience, like what?!?!

Around the later parts near the end, it started getting fast-paced, like okay there are only 4 episodes left... but they're still building up this ominous enemy that they've been hinting at since the beginning, so what are they gonna do? Then things started happening for the sake of convenience, but still props to them for at least putting up an effort for trying to explain shit in like few lines, for it to make sense.

And the show ended up with a bang, like they really went all in on that last episode, holy hell! Then landed its own two feet with a safe open ending. Watching this drama gave me hope that good fantasy cdrama does exist out there if you just keep looking. I'm glad my girl Ren Min got the FL role in this show, like i can't imagine any other actress playing Zhu Yan. At first, i see her as Ren Min, but slowly she started becoming one with the character that she was playing, so good job. I don't know if it's dubbed or not, but my girl has two voices here. I don't know why i didn't notice it immediately, but Zhu Yan was definitely not Ren Min's voice UNTIL, she appeared as yaoyi and heard her speak as a mature woman, like "Hellooo?!?!!! excuse?!?!! is this really Ren Min?!! Why does it sound so attractive?!?". So i went back to her other works and compared them and yep i think she's either using a different voice here like what zhao lusi did in 'Hidden Love' or it's dubbed.

So yeah, I would recommend this drama, if you can sit through the slow burn early part, then you'll be in for a ride.

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الوعد الأطول كان أفضل انتظار

لقد انتهيت من هذه الدراما الرائعة لكني ما زلت غير مستعدة للنهاية منذ مدة طويلة لم أبكي حتى تتورم عيناي. هذه الدراما فقط رفعت معاييري حول الدراما التاريخية الخيالية بشكل كبير أعني أن كل شيء مثالي الإنتاج، الرؤية البصرية، أماكن التصوير، الموسيقى والأغاني، الأزياء وحتى مهارات التمثيل جيدة جداً. من الأن فصاعداً اذا سألني شخصاً ما، ماهي افضل دراما تاريخية شاهدتها سأقول الوعد الأطول وبلا أدنى تردد. أنا ممتنة لحصولي على فرصة كهذه لأتمكن من مشاهدة هذه التحفة الصينية ومتأكدة أنني سأستمر بإعادة مشاهدتها في كل فترة لقد كنت اقول للجميع لا تفوتها وسأستمر بقول ذلك لأنها بمثابة كنز لي أحبها حقاً🥹♥️

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Lame!!!

Finally! It took 9 months to finish this series. Almost going to drop it. I had a great hope last year when I start, first is because of Xiao Zhan and the good ratings (back then).
40 episodes is way too much! And the female lead, bad selection to give this role to this actress!
The story line is all over the places, not sure what is the focus of this series? Is it love? Is it the war between Kong San and Melfork? Is it the long waiting time for the sea emperor? Is it about who get the throne? No focus at all!
in the beginning it seems like it is about Shi Ying return to get back the throne, but shift to Zhu Yan the stubborn girl.
I never saw this actress playing Zhu Yan before, so my opinion on her is solely according to her acting in this drama.
1. This Zhu yan character is really stupid and far beyond like. When the Sumo real sea emperor said : I want revenge, can she said that revenge is not good instead of teaching a stupid magic to send a "bird" to his mother??
Then when Sumo suddenly "sick" is this Zhu Yan so unknowledgeable to even don't know anything at all?? she think bring this to a normal doctor will help?
2. The actress acting is really terrible, especially episode 1 to 25. When she act happy, the smile ( the mouth, lips stretch like being forced) very unnatural and doesn't seems like happy at all. And this is happen many may times
When she cried, there's no tears at all. When she "act" with a wah sound her eyes is not "wah" she tried with the fake open happy mouth but it failed terribly.
When she "fight" every time need to spread her 2 hands whenever go down or do some magic action?
She always use a stuntman in every fighting (only rolling the body, not even falling down).
And her face so big, not suitable for the outfit?
This actress suitable for maybe police roles, her dub voice so sweet, but it does not suit her at all.
The actress playing Xue Lu is a better choice for Zhu Yan role.

So many unnecessary misunderstanding. This Zhu Yan isn't she always have big mouth and said what she think and feel??? Why when she heard her master want to leave priesthood she can't just ask him?? She suddenly have a change of character after the 30 episodes of very annoying character that worth a slap.
All the stories will not happen if this Zhu Yan did not do her stupidity since she was a kid until she is grow up.

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a very impressive drama

I can't go into specifics, but Zhu yan's character is a bit annoying, she should have confessed her love to Shiying from the start instead of admitting that she loves a Yuan.besides that shiying's character is also quite annoying, why would someone be so stupid for love? but sadly I was touched by shiying and Zhu yan's love story🥰.



























































































































I hope there is a special episode to see shiying and Zhu yan happy together

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La misma historia con un terrible final

Empece a ver esta historia, porque el primer capitulo me gusto, a pesar de tener los mismos cliches de la niña tonta, el tipo distante. Bueno, todo iba bien, las actuaciones estaba bastando buenas, los personajes secundarios hicieron bien sus roles y todo encajaba. A veces tenia la sensación de que había muchas historias a la vez y que no entendía de donde salían o porque esas cosas estaban pasando, me culpe a mi misma de no prestar mucha atención. Pero cuando llegamos al capitulo 38. Dije y ahora que? Los capítulos 39 y 40, que de paso duran el doble, son una porquería de historia, pasaron muchas cosas, muchas muertes innecesarias, cosas injustificadas, revivir personajes para matarlos de nuevo. Yo realmente quede muy decepcionada, en especial de estos capítulos. Como dijo alguien mas por aquí, no me importa el final final, que queda como abierto, ya estoy acostumbrada a estos finales con los chinos, pero como destruyen una buena historia. Voy a considerar que la serie termino en el 38 y listo.

SPOILER, NO LEA SI NO QUIERE SABER.

Toda la serie el sumo sacerdote se la pasa de un lado al otro en sus decisiones, tu no sabes si es bueno o malo, Todo lo hace por él y también lo jode. Cuando Shi Ying muere, ella se tiene que sacrificar, dar la mitad de su vida para salvarlo, y el viejo mirando. Una muerte innecesaria, después tiene que sacrificarse para dejar de ser sacerdote, pierde los poderes, que después en un ratito los recupera de la nada. Y se tiene que volver a sacrificar, con ese demonio del hielo, que realmente fue una escena terrible de rebuscada. Al Yuan lo reviven para matarlo de nuevo, a ella le matan a los padres, con la excusa que se sacrifican por ella. Luego muere el papá de él. En estos 2 capítulos pasan un montón de cosas, que no tienen ni pies ni cabeza, son una locura de guión, que nadie entiende. Como si hubieran cambiado al guionista, o no? porque si revisamos toda la historia habían muchas cosas no muy claras, no justificadas.

Al final le di un 7 por las actuaciones (sin contar la escena donde el demonio se metía a sus cuerpos, totalmente ridícula).
Si aman a Xiao Zhan, véanla, pero no se decepcionen al final, ya se los advertí.
Gracias por leerme.

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Xiao Zhan Shines Bright in "The Longest Promise"

"The Longest Promise" starring Xiao Zhan is an absolute triumph that showcases the actor's exceptional talent and versatility. With its beautifully crafted narrative and powerful performances, this drama is a mesmerizing journey that will leave audiences deeply moved and emotionally invested.

Xiao Zhan's portrayal of the lead character is nothing short of extraordinary. He effortlessly breathes life into the complex role, capturing the essence of Michael's journey through time and love with finesse. His expressive eyes convey a multitude of emotions, effortlessly drawing viewers into the depths of his character's soul. From moments of pure joy to heart-wrenching sorrow, Xiao Zhan's performance is a masterclass in emotive acting.

The chemistry between Xiao Zhan and his co-star is undeniable, adding an enchanting layer to the love story at the heart of "The Longest Promise." Their on-screen connection radiates with authenticity, making the audience root for their love to conquer all obstacles. Xiao Zhan's ability to create such captivating chemistry showcases his prowess as an actor who can establish profound connections with his fellow cast members.

Beyond Xiao Zhan's exceptional performance, "The Longest Promise" boasts a compelling plotline that effortlessly weaves together romance, fantasy, and mystery.

Visually, the drama is a treat for the eyes. The picturesque cinematography perfectly complements the enchanting story, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that enhances the emotional impact of the scenes. The attention to detail in the set design and costumes further adds to the authenticity of the different time periods portrayed.

While "The Longest Promise" delivers an enthralling and heartfelt experience, there are a few moments where the pacing could have been tightened to maintain the drama's momentum. However, Xiao Zhan's magnetic presence consistently keeps the narrative engaging, and any minor pacing issues are quickly overshadowed by his commanding performance.

In conclusion, "The Longest Promise" is an outstanding drama that cements Xiao Zhan's status as a versatile and accomplished actor. This drama is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a compelling story, breathtaking performances, and a touch of enchantment in their entertainment. Xiao Zhan's brilliance shines bright in this unforgettable tale of love, destiny, and the longest promises that endure through time.

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Aesthetic

You want to see a drama with no overly done plot
Rubbish cakes of makeup
You should watch this
Plot is interesting with some mystery and what will happen next
Acting : it’s the major strength of the drama acting is brilliant from everyone and specially Xiaozhan has once again proved that why he is the best actor around his body language , lifting of eyebrow sly smile, tilting head smirks are all on point he really knows how to express with his eyes , his dialogues delivery is brilliant
Renmin was new when this was shoot but her
acting is v smooth she express well
All side character are brilliant
Ost is haunting and love it too
I watched on We Tv and I think I will watch again on Netflix
Good work by the team

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Too many plotholes

I don't normally write reviews but I feel I have to as a lot of people dropped it cos of the female lead or the ending. Tbh I read what happens in the end and I might watch it or night not but that they may or may not get together doesn't bother me. Why? Cos they don't (for me) have marriage chemistry just great mate chemistry and mutual understanding. I liked them together but if I hear the word master one more time ....OMG. I like these type of dramas so I can suspend a lot of disbelief. However from the start I was confused..why would the man who told the prophesy allow any woman within 50 miles of SL before his 18th birthday, special celebration or not? Then the dress thingy...she (magically) put on the dress and danced at the bottom of a ravine ?? AF's characters problems with not seeing the face.od his beloved till she reincarnates but wait what she knows she can't reincarnate after all? Or was this a false translation as I watched English subs? The cute shy couple was great and the other.eventual.king and queen's get together was nice but their beginning was crap..why would he like her that much in the first place. So many other bits and pieces but then towards the end how could the FL bring him back from the death with her supposed not so brilliant power? And why would the ML have killed himself like that he didn't seem that type. He'd ignored the prophesy so long why did he do it then? On a good note I liked the characters enough that I kept going for a long time but in the end I just couldn't.

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mhe!

Toda la historia de este drama es un DESPROPOSITO!que se muere, que no se muere que se muere de nuevo, ¿cuál era la necesidad de matarle a los papás ? ¿Para que hacer que ella gastará la mitad de su vida reviviendolo para matarlo de nuevo?
Odio los finales ambiguos dónde no sabes si es una ilusión o es que no estaba muerto si no que andaba de parranda Estre drama fue frustrante e innecesariamente largo, además esperaba más del romance.

El actor me encanta pero su personaje se me hacía muy molesto por momentos, no fue hasta que se murió (la primera muerte claro) que se dió cuenta que debía luchar por su amor, pero nos tuvo 38 capitulos sufriendo con su actitud fría.

Ella necesitaba más respeto propio porque si puedes amar a alguien pero eso no significa que no debes saber cuándo alejarte si no te quieren cerca.

El prota le mata al mejor amigo que conoció desde que tenía memoria y esto se le olvida totalmente a ella en un abrir y cerrar de ojos, al menos que parezca herida por algún tiempo era casi su hermano!! pero le dijo que lo odiaba y luego cuendo lo salva se olvida completamente y hasta justifica el asesinato a sangre fría, eso no tuvo sentido para mí.

En fin, me gustaron aún así las actuaciones eso siempre 10/10 ojalá hubieran tenido una mejor historia sin huecos argumentales para lucirse con gusto

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This was unexpectedly a very good series and I really enjoyed it.

This was unexpectedly a very good Wuxia series and I really enjoyed it. Glad that I decided to give it a chance even though there are numerous reviews and comments which suggest that this series is not worth watching.

The comments regarding the female lead, Ren Min not being the right choice for the character of Zhu Yan is ridiculous. She acted the way the character was written and did a good job in my opinion. Ren Min's acting is a 8.5/10 for me. Xiao Zhan did great as Shi Ying so 10/10 for him (really impressed with his acting skills) .

All the other actors did a great job at portraying their respective characters especially, Alen Fang, Wang Churan, Zi Qi Wang and Marcus Li. The chemistry between the couples were also very good and believable, specifically Shi Ying and Zhu Yan as well as Bai
Xuelu and Qing Gang.

Story: The story kept the viewer engaged with enough intrigue to keep one wanting to see what happens next. Most of the Arc's were tied up but the Sea emperor's and the Dragon Lord's wasn't.

The ending is left open for interpretation, either Shi Ying will only return once a year when the Snowy Rosa blooms or he became immortal and actually returned in the last scene to spend their remaining years together. My interpretation is that he became immortal and returned. My reason being that when Yuan took Zhu Yan and seriously injured Shi Ying (because he lost his powers after Zhu Yan resurrected him with the Blood oath spell) , he went through rebirth, regained all his powers and became immortal. So he was able to return by transforming from the white petal (his primordial spirit in the white petal).
So story 8.5/10

Production and Visual FX were great as well Cinematography, excellent CGI, beautiful sets and scenery, excellent fight scenes which were well choreographed, beautiful costumes 9/10

Ost: 10/10 loved all the music and sound effects

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True Love - Strong and Lasting

I am not fond of drama series; but this the best drama series for me. I'm a fan of Xiao Zhan. Started when I watched The Untamed. I'm obsessed watching all his drama series and movies. Watching this many times until now, though it breaks me repeatedly, I couldn't help it. Love their scenes. Shiying 's perfect moves, acting and Zhu Yan's heartfelt emotion. Empathizes me that hits me through the bones. The OST is superb! It's just saddened me a lot with the ending. Hoping there will be second season and hoping the writer may seem to consider the watcher's emotion to twist the ending it was a heartbreak for me. Just watch and don't skip. The best drama for me.

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