The Story of Mystics (2024)

Best Cdrama of 2024 For Me.

I like everything about this drama the music the acting.
I really like the bond between zyz and zyc frist zyc hate zyz then they become best friend slowly and I like the chemistry between wx and zyz and also like the story between zyz and lilun and their costumes is awesome specially zyz costumes and the cases is not boring in this drama as compared to mlcb overall it's good drama but I don't like one thing is that male zyz screentime in latest episodes is so few.
I really like evil switch of zyz hou minghao is a great actor his expression is excellent and I'm waiting for his upcoming dramas.

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Absolute Master piece and The drama of the year!

I love watching fantasy, suspense and adventurous dramas and this drama is giving me everything I love and more!!! Its easily the best drama that has surfaced this year.

The cast whether they are male or female are doing stunning jobs portraying their characters so spectacularly and perfectly. I can't fail to mention that all the cast is full of gorgeous and beautiful actors and actresses which makes this drama even more captivating. The villains are extremely cunning and powerful and so it increases the chaos and difficulty of the problems the main characters have to face.

I love the complicated yet adorable romance between Wen and ZYZ. Also the complicated but very admirable friendship between ZYC and ZYZ, it warms my heart everytime and I enjoy their progress from enemies to bros/ friends . The love/hate story between LiLun and ZYZ is really intriguing and mysterious. Their story of bros to enemies is unfolding slowly but surely. Also all the other team members' back stories are incredibly interesting. There is always something to find out and explore about each character, their back ground, their behaviour, their choices and emotions. The bromance between the members and the sismance is also blowing my mind up. Its so adorable, bittersweet, funny and exciting.

All the characters are showing emotions and expressions incredibly well so you feel emotionally attached to their life and fate. I love the humour of the characters and chaotic energy they display, it's really fun to see their funny interactions. The chemistry of all the team members is impeccably smooth.

The story is extremely gripping and suspenseful. I love how the mysterious cases are revealing important past stories and are related to main cast one way or another.

The gorgeous costumes, top cenimatrography, beautiful fight cheography, all environment settings and the sound/visual effects were mind-blowing!! Its one of the best dramas I have ever seen. The OSTs are incredibly beautiful and heart warming.

Overall I'm in love with this drama and don't want it to finish ever! I'm savoring this extremely satisfying experience. I feel the pace of the drama is not too slow or not too fast. Its just right. Everyday I eagerly wait for the next episode. I hope watchers give it fair chance and watch it till end.

ENDING:

The ending is beautifully executed. The series of events that unfold, fit so well with the story. It has been very cleverly menouvered to that point where everyone had to make hard choices out of either their deep love, deep bonded friendship, admirable brotherhood or heavy responsibility of protecting/saving others. Although the drama has an open ending/sad ending, we are given happy ending as well in the extra episode. The happy ending ties so well with the end that we are left with a relief and hope for our dreams to come true that we spun during the drama.

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An Emotionally Moving Journey, That Is More Than Just Skin Deep

"Fangs of Fortune" or also known by its native title as "Da Meng Gui Li" which translates to "The Big Dream Returns" is a fantasy drama which incorporates Chinese mythology from the 'Classics of Mountains and Seas'. It's an adventure that revolves around mythological creatures ; demons versus mortals. Leading to action packed scenes with visually pleasing CGIs, eye-candy visuals and delicately detailed costumes. Not to forget the banger ost titled 'Unintentional Big Dream' which adds to the excitement as it rings for an eventful scene. This is the first initial impression, but as we dive more into the storyline and if you ask me how I perceive it on a deeper level, here is what I would tell you...

Fangs of Fortune is a tale that is more than just skin deep. It's an emotionally evoking journey that touches meaningful themes about life, death, love, hate, friendship, family, growth and dreams. This is definitely not just a mere demon versus mortals story, but it's an intricately woven story about self discovery and what makes one's life worthwhile. The underlying meaning of the title is about the acceptance of fate and the defiance of fate, that concludes to one word: willingness. It tells you how powerful that one word is when faced with life choices or when devoid from having a choice.

STORYLINE
The first half of the story began on a light hearted tone with comedic scenes inserted. Although, this might come as an unexpected surprise for those who thought this drama to be heavily dark theme and gloomy. I thought otherwise, the addition of the comedic aspect didn't add as a mere filler or entertainment, I saw it as another layer that adds to the complexity of the characters. The first half tells more about the coming together of the demon hunting team as they venture out solving one case after another, however, their relationship among each other is still at the state of testing the waters due to the fact that the well-renowned vicious great demon Zhao Yuanzhou who everyone fears or hates the most ; except for Wen Xiao, turned up to be part of their team.

As the story progresses more, the characters who seemed to be one-dimensional in the beginning have started to have complex layers upon the small revelations that were revealed about them through the use of flashbacks. Slowly, the story had started to touch grey areas that is more than just black and white, or in other words good and bad. The flashbacks weren't thrown in one full blow but instilled into the storyline parts by parts, therefore incorporating a mysterious effect which I found intriguing. The inclusion of backstories for the side characters - demons who were the prime suspects in the cases they were solving, added depth to the storyline. Furthermore, these flashbacks and backstories serves essential as they contain the key details that would play a role in the latter part of the story.

The second half of the story is where a complete tonal shift from the previous part takes a turn, despite the consistency in insertion of a few comedic scenes, the emotional heaviness and angst played a pivotal role here. After the long journey of the demon hunting team, the revelation of the truth took a toll on everyone, but this toll became the fuel that served for the fruition of their newly formed bond. What I like about how their bond was formed is that it wasn't handled in an abrupt way, but rather the complex characters were given time to sit with their own feelings, it allowed them to self-reflect and process acceptance of the truth in their hearts, as a result, it led to a more genuine formation of their bond ; it's realistic and well-thought of.

The romance aspect between Zhao Yuanzhou and Wen Xiao isn't heavily the focus of this drama, it was rather balanced with the friendship aspect and other themes. Despite this fact, it didn't hinder me from actually feeling the romantic chemistry between the two leads, their romantic story is convincing enough. I truly loved their scenes together and found every moment of theirs heartwarming. The playful banters, the bold flirty remarks, to the heartfelt conversations. The slow burn trope. It was all conveyed well.

The ending of the story (including the special episode) is absolutely phenomenal. While it was all painfully heartbreaking and tragically sad, it was a very meaningful and touching end that does justice for the underlying message of this drama ; the willingness to accept their fate, and the willingness to defy their fate.

The cinematography for this drama is aesthetically pleasing, it is definitely one of the things I love about it. Apart from this, I find the slow-motion effects on the action scenes as a great way to highlight its stunning details and movements, hence making it more impactful. While I didn't really have much problems with these areas, I did notice at least two scenes that were abruptly cut but I found them minor so they didn't really affect me to the extent that made me dislike it.

CHARACTERS & ACTING

Neo Hou as Zhu Yan/ Zhao Yuanzhou
Zhao Yuanzhou is a heavily misunderstood character in the drama. He had spent his life in seclusion, surrounded with constant loneliness and tormented by guilt. He lived life awaiting his deathbed. Upon seeking for death, he unexpectedly found friendship, love and felt happiness for a while. He's an extremely selfless character that lived up to his name as a great demon, not because he is powerful, but because he has the biggest heart. He is the epitome of willingness, which is why I found the drama centering about him to be touching.

Neo Hou gave a stellar performance in his portrayal of the great demon Zhao Yuanzhou, he brought complete justice to his role. He didn't shine in this drama because of his action scenes alone, his emotionally impactful expressions of all the complex emotions of Zhao Yuanzhou in different intensities, from the light-hearted to heavy scenes made him really stood out. In addition, he nailed the comedic side of his character. I must say that this is his best role to date, this is the first time in a long while that I actually liked a character he played. He truly carried his role here.

Chen Duling as Wen Xiao / Evil Wen Xiao
Wen Xiao is a mortal who possesses the power of the Baize Goddess but even with such powers, she has been presented to be a physically weak character. Despite her physical weakness, her strength lies in her cleverness, her ability to strategize, her strong determination, and resilience. She's a character that served as a pillar who brings the team of misfits together. In the storyline, she is utilized in a way that adds balance to the demon hunting team, at the same time she served as both a moral compass and a light of hope for those who lived in complete darkness ; ZYZ & ZYC. She might not be an over powering character, but she's an essential character.

Chen Duling proved her versatility as an actress in this drama. Her portrayal of Wen Xiao and the Evil Wen Xiao deserves praise. She's definitely talented and can pull both roles very well. Her crying scenes is heart wrenching, I cried so much whenever she cried. Her character was well-written, and she had her shining moments. I did think she deserved more screen time and wished her character was given a bit more focus in the storyline. However, I still did appreciate Chen Duling's portrayal of Wen Xiao.

Tian Jia Rui as Zhou Yichen
Zhou Yichen is a righteous character who lived his life awaiting for the day he could avenge his family. He seemed like an aloof character who is bad at expressing himself at first, but he is actually a very soft hearted character. His character development throughout the drama proved how he is truly the roof of the demon hunting team.

Tian Jia Rui had pulled off his role as Zhou Yichen really well. He definitely has the potential of being a male lead in a drama. As much as I loved his Gong Yuanzhi in MJTY, I think it has now been officially replaced by his character here as Zhou Yichen.

Others
At first, Zhen Xuan's Ying Lei and Lester Lin's Bai Jiu portrayal threw me a bit because of how anime-like they both were, eventually though I did manage to get used them. As for Cheng Xiao's portrayal of Pei Si Jing, I had a bit of a similar experience but in a different aspect, I knew she was written to be a cold and strong character, but I found the first crying scenes of Cheng Xiao lacking, thankfully she did improved in the latter episodes in this aspect. Meanwhile, Yanan's villain role as Li Lun is commendable.

OSTs
The songs that were mixed into this drama were meaningful, as they not only made the whole watching experience better, but each of these songs were perfectly tailored to match each of the characters stories and the casts personally singing them adds as a cherry on top. My favorites are definitely 'Yuanzhou's youth', 'Heaven and Earth Are Unrivaled' and 'Spring Breeze Does Not Ask'.

OVERALL IMPRESSION
This drama has left a lasting impression for me. The overall experience has been an enjoyable little adventure which I will definitely remember. The compelling storyline and well-rounded characters which crafts the underlying message of this drama is certainly what adds color to the dark and gloomy cinematography style. As someone who doesn't mind angst and sad endings, I can say that the whole journey from beginning to end has been of value, all emotions spent regardless whether they were laughters or tears shed definitely didn't go to waste. Fantasy dramas like this don't come by often, Fangs of Fortune is a gem of its own.

The actors hard work and effort put into this drama has certainly paid off. The chemistry between Chen Duling and Neo Hou. The brotherhood between Neo Hou, Tian Jia Rui and Yan An. The formed little family of misfits in the demon hunting bureau. I am surely going to miss all these.

FAVE SCENES
- Zhao Yuanzhou's big dream revelation at the peach blossom house
- Wen Xiao's 300 years in the sundial
- Wen Xiao and Zhao Yuanzhou's "one day"
- Wen Xiao and Li Lun's game of questions
- Tian Xiang Pavillion scene
- Lord Bingyi and Yinglong backstory
- Bai Jiu and Ying Lei's almond cheese
- Li Lun, Zhao Yuanzhou and Zhou Yichen's collaboration
- Zhao Yuanzhou's last moment of hesitation

"There are thousands of laws in the world but none of them can defeat a single word of willingness" - Qing Geng

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" THE HEART OF FANGS OF FORTUNE: A JOURNEY THROUGH CHARACTERS, MYSTICISM, AND EMOTIONAL DEPTH"

Fangs Of Fortune also known as " The Story of Mystics" or " The Big Dream Returns" , is a supernatural and mystical drama that follows the adventures of a group of people with unique talents and powers who come together to solve cases and uncover various mysteries. This drama features incredible action scenes, top-notch cinematography filmed in a gloomy and fantastical style that captures the mood perfectly, and strong performances from the cast, making it a standout in its genre.

As flashbacks in this drama were used, they really added layers to the story and helped show why the characters acted the way they did. It wasn’t just random moments thrown in they tied the past and present together, making the plot flow better and giving more meaning to the characters’ decisions and growth. For me, this worked well in the drama because it made everything feel connected, and the timing of those flashbacks was perfect, revealing just enough to keep me interested while also showing how their histories shaped who they became.

The comedic tones in the drama were also necessary, especially with how gloomy and depressing some of the characters’ situations were. Without those lighter moments, the story would have felt too heavy. The humor balanced it out and showed how the characters coped with everything going on, which made them feel more real to me. And honestly, the shift from comedy to something darker and more emotional hit harder because of that. It started out funny, but once the truths were revealed, the tone became intense and heartbreaking. The shifts felt natural, too, like they were preparing me for the heavy emotional impact later on. By the time things got angsty, it didn’t feel out of place is it felt like the natural progression of everything that had built up.

THE CHARACTERS / ACTING

Neo Hou as Zhu Yan (Full Name: Zhao Yuan Zhou)

Zhu Yan is a 34,000-year-old great demon who carried the weight of his past and was determined to die because of it. His character was deeply depressed and used comedy as a way to cope with his guilt and loneliness. After spending so many years in seclusion, he decided to search for the Bai Ze Token while helping the team uncover not only their pasts but also his own. As the journey progressed, Zhu Yan found peace through his growing bond with the team. The friendship, love, and camaraderie they shared turned into a connection so strong it felt like family to him. Despite being the most powerful character, Zhu Yan wasn’t just defined by his strength but also by the emotional vulnerability he revealed over time. The drama centered heavily around him, and even though some scenes were cut, his presence and impact never dimmed.

Neo Hou’s performance was absolutely brilliant. He brought so much life to Zhu Yan, capturing the comedic, action-packed, and emotional moments perfectly. His portrayal was so convincing that I felt every emotion whether he cried, laughed, or fought. He embodied the character in such a way that my words can’t fully do it justice. Neo Hou as Zhu Yan surprised me in the best way possible, and his performance left me in awe. He made me cry when Zhu Yan broke down and laugh during his lighthearted moments, showcasing incredible range.

Chen Duling as Wen Xiao

Wen Xiao is a mortal chosen as the Bai Ze Goddess to protect the people and wilderness. While she wasn’t written as the strongest physically, her character was far from weak. Wen Xiao had a heartbreaking past, and her dedication to waiting for Zhu Yan after their time together showed her strength and loyalty. She spent years researching demons to better understand them, as seen in the first episode, which set up her role as a key problem-solver in the group.

Wen Xiao was smart, mature, and the glue that held the team together. She felt like a mother figure to the group, offering encouragement and wisdom during tough moments. I did wish to see more of her in the final episodes, but overall, I was satisfied with her character arc. Her chemistry with Zhu Yan was subtle yet incredibly intense, and their interactions were filled with unspoken emotions and tension that left a lasting impression.

Chen Duling portrayed Wen Xiao so naturally that every scene with her felt impactful. She made me cry during her emotional moments and smile in her lighter ones. Her talent really shone through, especially in her portrayal of the demon side disguised by Ao Yin. She played it so convincingly that it felt like an extension of Wen Xiao rather than a separate character. This balance between vulnerability and strength, along with the ability to switch between a heroic and villainous aura, showed how talented she truly is.

Tian Jia Rui as Zhuo Yichen

Zhuo Yichen played an important role in this drama. He started out bound by his goal to kill the great demon Zhu Yan, but as he spent more time with the group and got to know Zhu Yan, his character began to change. ZYC was an upright character who stood firmly for what was right, but when he found himself in the same position as Zhu Yan, he finally understood him.

Tian Jia Rui portrayed his character really well. He showed great versatility, transitioning from a reserved, quiet demeanor to someone who experienced real growth. The way his character’s before-and-after was shown was done very well, and I appreciated his acting in this role.

Cheng Xiao as Pei Sijing

Pei Sijing started as a cold and distant character due to her past experiences with demons and her brother’s situation. However, as the story progressed, she began to open up. Pei Sijing is best described in one sentence: “cold on the outside, but warm at heart.”

Cheng Xiao portrayed her character in a very good way. It’s not easy to convincingly portray a cold character without coming off as flat, but she balanced it well. I loved her action scenes, and her role as an archer fit perfectly with the group dynamic. She handled both the emotional and fighting scenes excellently, and I really liked her performance in Fangs of Fortune.

YaNan as Li Lun

Li Lun was a lonely character who made the wrong choices because of how he viewed humans and his strong desire to protect the wilderness. His actions broke his friendships and turned him into a villain, but as the saying goes, “villains are not born but made.”

I appreciated that his character had development toward the end, even though he caused so much damage to the demon bureau and the people. His final decision helped the group when they needed it the most.

YaNan played this character very well. He wasn’t just a good-looking villain with no substance he showed the contrast between his happy times with friends and his darker side after becoming a villain. His acting was impressive, and I’m proud of his performance.

The Other Characters

I wish I could write longer for each character, but here’s a quick summary of two key members of the group:

Lester Lin as Bai Ju - Lester was phenomenal as Bai Ju. As a young actor, he showed a lot of potential and versatility. He played three parts: the comedic boy, the spy, and even an evil version of Li Lun, all of which were well-directed and well-acted. I truly believe he’s going to become one of the best Chinese actors someday.

Xu Zhen Xuan as Ying Lei - Ying Lei was such a comfort character for me. I loved his portrayal as the mountain god and his overall contribution to the group. He genuinely cared about the team and loved them all.

Xu Zhen Xuan did an amazing job as Ying Lei. His comedic moments brought so much light to the group and made me laugh a lot. He also did well in his fight scenes, and when it came to emotional moments, especially during that heart-wrenching choice he had to make, I cried so much for him.

Guest and Side Characters

All the characters, even the guest ones, played an important part in the story. From Aimi as Qing Geng, Zuo Ye as Fei, Zhang Miao Yi as E Shou the rabbit demon, and Ryan Cheng as Cheng Huang to Riley Wang as Ran Yi and Xiao Ran as Miss Qi, everyone’s performance was excellent. Lai Wei Ming, who played Pei Sijing’s brother, was another standout. I especially loved the sibling dynamic between Pei Sijing and her brother it felt natural and heartfelt.

ROMANCE AND CHARACTER DYNAMICS

The romance between Zhu Yan and Wen Xiao was delicate yet deeply impactful, reminding me of an “old married couple.” Their mutual understanding, words of encouragement, and sacrifices embodied the phrase, “What would you do for love?” Both answered in their unique ways, and their story has earned a place in my heart as a second Romeo and Juliet.

This drama also stood out with its subtle portrayal of relationships. From hints of BL and GL elements to the depiction of a polycule-like bond within the group, it offered layers of complexity. Wen Xiao, despite her physical frailty, wasn’t a weak or unnecessary addition to the plot or added due to censorship. Her character brought depth, warmth, and an essential perspective to the group dynamic.

CINEMATOGRAPHY AND OST

The cinematography in Fangs of Fortune was breathtaking. Every frame held purpose, allowing the emotions and thoughts of the characters to shine without excessive zoom-ins or unnecessary exaggerations. It gave space to interpret the story and characters’ struggles naturally, enhancing the overall experience.

The OST was equally masterful, amplifying the emotional and narrative depth of the series. Neo Hou’s “Yuanzhou’s Boy” (translation) and Liu Yu Ning’s “Unintentional Big Dream” were standout tracks, perfectly aligning with key moments like epic fight scenes or introspective character arcs. These songs added another layer to the storytelling, making each scene resonate deeply.

FAVOURITE SCENES

* All the fight scenes in this drama
* Wen Xiao in the sundial for 300 years to save her loved one
* Zhu Yan saving Wen Xiao
* The banter between Wenxiao and Zhu Yan
* The banter between Zhu Yan and Zhuo Yichen
* Lord Ying Long and Bing Yi backstory
* Ran Yi and Miss Qi heart breaking story
* Li Lun and Zhu Yan past story
* The Mpreg joke
*Qing Geng and Fei heartbreaking 💔 story
* Wen Xiao and the Rabbit 🐰 Demon fight ( Ep 1)
*ZYZ fake acting to take out his inner core
* THE Demon Bureau GROUP and so much more...

OVERALL THOUGHTS AND REFLECTION.

While Fangs of Fortune isn’t without its flaws, no drama is truly perfect. Despite minor mistakes, the story’s heart and intent shone through. The inclusion of characters like Lord Ying Long and Lord Bing Yi, portrayed by Neo Hou and Tian Jian Rui, respectively, enriched the narrative with a historical weight that complemented Zhu Yan and Yi Chen’s arcs beautifully.

The drama tackled themes of human nature, moral choices, and the balance between worldly desires and higher ideals. These elements, combined with intricate relationships and seamless directing, created an unforgettable experience. Fangs of Fortune reflected on the ugly realities of the world while marveling at the characters’ resilience and courage. One thing I have to say is the double standards for females, whether they are strong or weak, is so sad to see. No matter how they act, their choices and behaviors are often judged more harshly than those of males. It’s a frustrating pattern that highlights how women are held to different standards, no matter their strength or vulnerability.

The ending of Fangs of Fortune really pierced my heart, leaving me torn with emotions. As each character faced difficult choices, their struggles hit deeply, and I couldn’t help but cry. Even with the special episode that added something new, offering a glimpse of hope, the overall feeling was still bittersweet sad yet uplifting. It captured the weight of their journeys, and while I felt a sense of closure, it didn’t erase the heartache that lingered.

I am proud of all the cast hard work for this drama because it paid off well and it is was successful in it's own way, I do hope that one day we would have a reunion project with this amazing cast again.

For me, this was the most anticipated drama of the year, and it exceeded my expectations in ways I didn’t expect. It’s rare for a series to be both thought-provoking and entertaining, but Fangs of Fortune achieved just that. It is truly a gem that I will remember for a long time. I recommend this drama to anyone who likes fantasy dramas with poetic dialogues and a story that deals with choices and this a drama that requires patience.

Fav Quotes...
" A little starlight, a candle flame and a street lamp left on travellers can all Pierce the darkness and you" - Zhuo Yichen

" There are thousands of laws in the world but none of them can defeat a single word of willingness" -Qing Geng

" When everyone was treating me as an evil demon and had feared me, hated me or respected me, she was the only one who still looked at me with warmth and sympathy" - Zhu Yan

" There are many ways to live your live.
Responsability is a choice, not a constraint.
Neither shouldering responsability nor pursuing dreams is wrong. Some people only wish to be a quite lake in the forest, while other people want to became a running river". - Wen Xiao

Thanks for reading!!!

જ⁀➴ ♡ ‧₊˚ ☁️⋅♡🪐༘⋆

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To leave the dream and return to reality...

The last time I felt so torn up and sad after watching a series was when I watched ‘Mysterious Lotus Casebook’ and now iQIYI has managed to make me cry endlessly again with one of their productions.

They use the latest technology for the drama, which is why it looks so real.
https://www.tiktok.com/@eprileven/video/7432156758052801793?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7380879236251223585
Realistic settings or blue/green backgrounds do not create harmonious scenes. Especially with blue/green backgrounds, it is very difficult to match the appearance of the foreground and background. Outdoor film sets are limited by daylight, so virtual filming with LED effectively solves these challenges and allows for more consistent and immersive images.
Thumbs up to this brilliant way of filming. Personally, I hope it is used more often in the future as I was absolutely blown away by the scenery.

Guo Jing Ming has once again shown what he is capable of. Although he is a controversial director, with this drama he has shown us how beautiful Chinese mythology can be. (He was accused of plagiarism in 2004 and punished by the court in 2006.)

About the characters:

Hou Minghao brings to life the characters of Zhao Yuan Zhou (he prefers this name to Zhu Yan) and Ying Long.
He is the epitome of being used as a vessel to collect all the malicious energy in the world and channel it into himself. The result is tragic, as so much negative emotion is difficult to control.
Despite the tragedy of the character, he manages to portray the character with ease and even manages to create humorous scenes.
Rarely have I cried as much as I laughed at a character.
As I already have two favourite characters played by Hou Minghao, I now have three.

Chen Du Ling embodies Wen Xiao in the drama. The baize goddess whose power depends on the strongest demon in the world at any given time - in this case Zhao Yuan Zhou.
Although she is physically weak, she shows strength of will in many situations, even though she has been through a very difficult ordeal. First her father died and then her mentor, the former Baize Goddess.
Rarely have tears looked so good.
I have to admit that I wasn't a big fan of her before this drama as she always played very weak and fragile roles. This drama changed my mind.

Tian Jia Rui plays Zhuo Yi Chen and Bing Yi. Both stories have something tragic in common, as they have to sacrifice their best friend for the good of mankind. Ying Long sacrificed himself in the first life so that Bing Yi would not have to live with the humiliation of having killed his best friend. Therefore, at the turning point, Zhuo Yi Chen decides strength as he wants to live with this stigma.
The character shows that you should not judge a book by its cover, but always look behind the curtain. There are shades of grey as well as black and white. Forgiving someone and accepting them for who they are is sometimes worth more than trying to kill someone out of hatred and revenge.
After MJTY, he has once again shown that it's no longer possible without him. I'm already looking forward to more dramas with him.


What can I say about Cheng Xiao?
I've watched a lot of dramas with her, but I usually didn't like the character she played. For one thing, her acting was limited, which you could see especially in her facial expressions, and for another, she always played characters that were similar in some way - misunderstandings sums them all up very well.
She absolutely blew me away in this drama. Especially in the fight scenes, you can clearly see that her flexibility helped her immensely. She played a strong woman who fought hard, not pretty.
Above all, the development of the character overcoming her own inner demons was a great fit. Thumbs up for her performance - all round.

Lin Ziye, Xu Zhen Xuan and Yan An lived their characters and made them what they are.

I'm always impressed by Lin Ziye's performance in particular, and I have to say that for his age, he conveys the darkness of the character extremely well. He always manages to captivate the audience no matter how different the characters he plays are. I'm looking forward to his next drama and hope he continues to enjoy acting in the future.
Here Lin Ziye with little Kai Xing Jiang
https://www.tiktok.com/@linziyeth/video/7345111066470305031?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7380879236251223585

Xuan Zhen Yuan made the troupe happy with delicious food and brought the little god to life. I'm sure Ying Lei will be a great god in the next life, able to protect whoever he wants. He has shown that no matter how you are treated, you can still be friends and in the end risk everything for them. He has grown with every journey he has taken with the troupe, eventually sacrificing himself for his friends to ensure their safety.
He won me over as young Wu Xie, and now he has shown that he is capable of portraying a completely different character.
Fun fact: Two former Wu Xie have starred in this drama - Hou Minghao from the second season (The Lost Tomb 2) and Xuan Zhen Yuan from the last season shown so far (Tibetian Sea Flower).

I liked Yan An as a demon who never learns to forgive, but whose hatred for humanity grows and grows, and who wants to kill everyone, even those who aren't responsible. Yan An embodied the vengeful demon like no one before him. Every emotion he conveyed, the hatred, the anger, the revenge, were completely understandable feelings when you put yourself in his shoes. And despite his deep hatred, in the end he showed that you can change - for the good of all.
Never has an evil demon looked so sexy - only Xuan Ye can keep up.
I'm looking forward to more dramas from Yan An.

Hats off to every actor in the cast and to everyone who couldn't be seen because they were part of the crew - every role suited the actor and every scene was perfectly executed.

Now for the deeper meaning of the drama:
Actually, the name of the drama 'Da Meng Gui Li' (大梦归离) was translated as 'Fangs of Fortune'. However, I forgot in which episode this was mentioned - I was very surprised when I saw and heard the translation and the spoken word.
Gui Li (归离) is also the strongest power of the Baize Goddess - a deadly sacrificial power.

Classically, Chinese idioms contain four characters. They do not have the meaning of the literal translation, but stand for something much deeper and often have a philosophical approach.
This is why these deeper meanings cannot be found in dictionaries here in the West.
The expression 'Da Meng Gui Li' means to leave the dream and return to reality. It describes the transition from dream to reality, from illusion to reality, and also reflects the psychological changes that people go through when they pursue their dreams and goals.

Basically, the title reflects the deeper meaning of the whole drama and is therefore a damn good choice, as it is the recurring theme.
After all, it also means that people who have lost their way can find their way back to the right path.
And with all the characters, it becomes clear that they all have to find their way back to reality in some way, as each of them has experienced something that you wouldn't even wish on your arch-enemy. The name of the drama is therefore very well chosen, and the theme recurs to the proverbial bitter end.
Every character embodies karma in some way - it is assumed that every action releases certain energies and thus leads to certain consequences. Through good deeds and respectful behaviour towards others, bad karma can be turned into good karma.
The bottom line is that everyone gets a second chance.
This is especially true for Zhao Yuan Zhou, Bai Jiu and Li Lun.

The friendship between the characters is so different that it is simply beautiful. Characters from different backgrounds come together and go through thick and thin, sharing all their emotions. The friendship between the characters tells us that it doesn't matter where we come from or who we are, we can all be friends, no matter how different we are - be it the evil demon, be it the child prodigy doctor, be it the young god, be it the upright fighter, be it the tragic goddess, be it the strong woman - we will find each other whether we want to or not, and when the friendship has grown, we will also learn to forgive each other.
Never judge a person based on what you have seen or heard, but learn to see with your heart and look behind the façade. For everyone has a background story that is not visible to the naked eye.

The love story between Zhao Yuan Zhou and Wen Xiao is very subtle, and you can see very early on that the evil demon Zhao Yuan Zhou is in love with Wen Xiao - he pushed her on the swing, even though he didn't like it at all. You only do that when you love someone.
Wen Xiao only comes out of her shell in the scene when Zhao Yuan Zhou and Zhou Yi Chen are turned into ice statues and freed. She hugs Zhou Yi Chen and is happy that he is still alive. Zhao Yuan Zhou gets it a little differently, as she is incredibly angry with him and hits him several times before he hugs her. His hug shows her that everything is fine and that she need not worry, as he is by her side again.
If you loved, this would be one of the most natural reactions. After all, you would be furious if your beloved had recklessly sacrificed himself for his best friend.
In this drama, their love lives not in the big moments, but in the little things that are much more important. Their love is expressed through honesty, devotion, trust, understanding, empathy, loyalty, respect, tolerance and acceptance.

Of course, anyone who thought that Wen Zong Yu would die so easily was completely wrong. Because an evil person doesn't die so easily. The last few episodes have shown us that he embodies all the negative adjectives we humans have:
greedy, grasping, arrogant, callous, hostile, belligerent, mean, cruel, unscrupulous, narrow-minded, unpredictable and resentful.

Here's something interesting about the title itself:
In the drama, Wen Xiao mentions to Zhao Yuan Zhou that her tears can turn demons (comparable to dreams) into humans (here reality). As long as she unleashes the divine baize power and turns it into rain, everyone can be saved. Gui Li (归离) is the final sacrificial spell of the Baize Goddess - a deadly spell. So it can be said that what the title of the drama means is revealed, especially in the last episode.
We also learn that Zhao Yuan Zhou is nothing more than a vessel to collect all the evil emotions in the world so that everything becomes more harmonious. This means that he cannot always control himself. He is effectively the one who makes us more harmonious, and is also the one who gives power to the Baize Goddess when his malevolent energy is extremely strong - the stronger the most powerful demon is, the more powerful the Baize Goddess is.

We knew beforehand that this cast had angelic voices - at least those of us who knew the actors from other productions. But the OST that was delivered to us is convincing in every respect and provides the atmosphere that creates it.
And now Liu Yuning is back to show us that even Chinese rap can be perfectly suitable for a Xuanhuan drama - I didn't think so before. He proved me wrong once again.

All in all, iQIYI did not disappoint us once again, and even though the beginning of the drama was already a harbinger of a tragic end, I really enjoyed watching the drama. The drama shows us more than what we see at first glance.

The lesson we learn from it:
We will never give 伞 to our friends because it could mean 散 and who wants a relationship to break up.
The characters didn't want it and tried to reverse their fate, at least until the end - but you can't avoid fate.
At least Zhao Yuan Zhou is now being sung about by hordes of people and stories are being written about him as the saviour of mankind.
Another addition is that the demons of Chinese mythology, who turn into humans after cultivation, can be whatever they want and can theoretically change shape at any time. They are shape-shifters.
So we shouldn't get too fixated on our conventional version of man or woman when it comes to these beings. For it would be possible for them to change from male to female at any time.

Furthermore, we must understand that this interpretation has nothing to do with a BL, but also with the platonic form of love in the form of friendship.
Everyone accepts each other as they are!

For those who have never experienced such a friendship, I wish they could experience it at least once in their lives, because then you can say that you have found the perfect friend who is totally comfortable with you in any situation.

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''The past has already been bid farewell, and old friends have departed."

I can't express how deeply this drama has touched me. It's truly astonishing, and I still find it hard to move on. As a devoted fan of the characters and actors, I can say that everyone involved delivered exceptional performances. The male and female leads were not only incredibly talented but also strikingly gorgeous, making the drama all the more mesmerizing and utterly captivating. In short, this is undoubtedly the best C-drama of 2024 and an emotional rollercoaster that stole my heart.

Everything about this show is flawlessly crafted—the cinematography and costumes are visually stunning, and the relationships between characters are perfectly portrayed. The blend of teamwork and romance evokes a myriad of feelings through powerful actions and expressions, with moments of bromance and humor that are just delightful.

Neo Hu and Tian Jia Rui exceeded all expectations with their chemistry and dynamic as both allies and adversaries. Plus, Chen Duo Ling delivered a standout performance as Wen Xio, showcasing a depth of emotion that's truly remarkable. I can't rave enough about how much I adore the characters and their journeys. This drama is an absolute gem!

Neo Hou as Zhao Yuan Zhao
Neo Hou brilliantly brings to life Zhao Yuan Zhao, our beloved yet kind-hearted demon who faces endless suffering and sacrifice. He consistently puts his friends first, showcasing an indescribable love for his best friend that truly tugs at the heartstrings. One can't help but wonder what drives this man. His feelings for Wen Xion are absolutely intense—it's captivating!

The Blood Moon scene featuring Zhao Yuan Zhao was exceptional, perfectly continuing the storyline of him locking himself away. The moment when the Malicious Zhao Yuan Zhao says, "give yourself to me obediently like you did before" has an unexpected allure to it! Neo Hou is absolutely nailing this role! The Malicious ZYZ exudes a compelling charm, and the vocals in "ZY's Youth" are both stellar and emotional. Combining his striking looks, impressive singing, and acting skills makes the moments where ZY battles the malevolent energy incredibly powerful and resonant. His spellbinding word captivates irresistibly. 'BREAK'. he also doesn't forget to make us laughhhh.
in the end, he sacrificed himself for the world to be a better place, leaving our hearts a thousand times ripped.

Chen du Ling as Wen Xiao
Our beautiful baize goddess, who has experienced the loss of her beloved people time and time again, still manages to have a soft spot for demons, no matter the circumstances. It's this enduring compassion and strength in the face of tragedy that makes her truly admirable.
Even though she might not have any technical skills and isn’t the one stepping up in fights, she’s absolutely essential to the crew. She’s the moral compass, the glue that keeps everyone together. Her compassion for both humans and demons is something we all need. Without her judgment, the group would be lost. I get why WX makes ZYZ want to stick around; when you feel unworthy, having someone who understands you and values you is an incredibly special gift.

The Relationship
the hate to love yet, Wen Xiao seized the rare stillness of the yellow sun and dedicated three hundred years to restoring Baize Ling. With Baize Ling's power, she was able to awaken Zhao Yuanzhou, who had been trapped in a cycle of violence.

When Zhao Yuanzhou finally opened his eyes, he couldn't help but kiss Wen Xiao. Their playful banter about how "one day feels like three autumns apart" held a deeper truth, as Wen Xiao truly felt the weight of their three hundred years apart.

The emotional bond between Zhao Yuanzhou and Wen Xiao is undeniably the heart of this drama. Their connection goes beyond simple romance; it weaves a complex tapestry of fate that links their past lives to the present. As childhood sweethearts who have faced life-and-death situations together, their love has withstood the test of time, emerging not just intact but even more profound. It’s this depth of emotion that truly captivates and moves the audience, drawing us into their unforgettable journey. You won't want to miss the powerful dynamic of their relationship!
In many films and television dramas, kiss scenes serve as powerful emotional climaxes. While Zhao Yuanzhou and Wen Xiao don’t share a direct kissing scene early on, their feelings are conveyed beautifully through subtle movements, meaningful eye contact, and hints in their dialogue. This nuanced expression allows viewers to deeply sense the profound emotions between them, heightening anticipation for where their relationship will go next.

For instance, when Zhao Yuanzhou kisses Wen Xiao at the Bingyi tribe, it’s a pivotal moment that showcases his love. Even though he’s not a fan of pushing swings, he does it for her, highlighting the depth of his feelings. These small, yet significant details paint a vivid picture of their connection and keep audiences eager for their emotional journey to unfold.
The ambiguous atmosphere surrounding Zhao Yuanzhou and Wen Xiao is a defining feature of their emotional journey. Whether it's Zhao Yuanzhou’s unintentional acts of concern or Wen Xiao’s shy withdrawal, the subtle emotional tension between them is palpable. This tension is both heart-wrenching and exhilarating, allowing viewers to witness the purest and most touching aspects of love—the gradual process of two hearts inching closer together. It captivates us, drawing us into their evolving relationship and leaving us eager to see how their connection will deepen.

Tian Jian Rui as Zhao Yi Chen

Tian Jiang Rui masterfully portrays a character who has endured deep emotional trauma for years. His father and brother were tragically killed by a great demon, igniting a profound hatred within him. This powerful backstory adds depth to his performance, making it all the more compelling.
His friendship and chemistry with Zhao Yuan Zhao are exceptional, effectively showcasing the complex emotions of hatred and confusion. However, by the end, he recognizes the importance of his best friend’s presence and the incredible sacrifices made, which truly highlights his character development. The playful banter and moments of rejection with ZYX resonate with me, making me aspire to share a similar bond. He harbours an unrequited love for Wen Xiao but struggles to express it since she sees him only as a best friend and a brother, while her heart belongs to Zhao Yuan Zhao. Additionally, he maintains strong relationships with other characters, often presenting a cold, stone-hearted facade. Yet, as his friends make him feel special, his heart begins to soften, allowing him to reveal his true kind-hearted nature as a demon-hunting descendant of the Bingyi Clan.

In the end, he ultimately comes to terms with his loss, yet he continues to search for his best friend. Overwhelmed by emotion, he finds himself crying for a long time, lost in memories of their shared past and the moments spent with other friends. The depth of his longing and the pain of nostalgia highlight the strong bonds that have shaped his life.

Other characters
i want to mention many other characters like Li lun and our little mountain god and the scaredy cat Bai Ju, also our fearless cold archer yet bear a massive guilt. Every character in this story has their own hidden tale filled with deep-seated hatred and emotional struggles that hit hard. These backstories aren’t just there for show; they shape how the characters act and react, making it easy to sympathize with what they're going through. When you dig a bit deeper, you realize that their pain and battles make them relatable and compelling. Connecting with these characters goes beyond just watching their stories unfold; it’s about feeling their struggles and understanding the complexity of being human. So, let’s embrace their journeys.

I can’t emphasize enough how incredible the cinematography in this drama is—it’s truly phenomenal! Every scene is a visual masterpiece, and the outfits are not just stylish; they’re carefully designed to reflect each character’s complexity and personality through their colors. Just like in "My Journey to You," director Edward Guo and costume director Huang Wei really knocked it out of the park! They’ve created a stunning visual experience that enhances the storytelling and makes the characters even more relatable. If you appreciate art in film, you’ll definitely want to dive into this drama. It’s a combination of beauty and depth that you don’t want to miss!

Music
This drama boasts an impressive lineup of 13 soundtracks, and that alone is worth celebrating! Each character even has their own theme song, which adds a remarkable layer of depth and emotion to the story. The music beautifully captures the essence of their journeys, allowing us to connect with them on a deeper level. When you pair those unforgettable melodies with the captivating visuals, it creates an immersive experience that you won’t want to miss. If you love dramas that combine stellar storytelling with a phenomenal soundtrack, this is a must-watch! Trust me, the music will stay with you long after the credits roll!
1. Zhao Yuanzhou's song "远舟的少年" or "Yuanzhou's youth"
The song opens with the poignant line, "A boat drifts between the world, the heart is bitter and sweet." This reflects the emotional turmoil experienced following Zhao Wan'er's death, suggesting deep emotional pain. The lyrics convey, "the past has already been bid farewell, and old friends have departed," illustrating the inevitable passage of time and loss. Further emphasizing this theme, the song includes lines like "The years are filled with grievances," "No idle wishes, no hope for eternity," and "Struggling repeatedly, endless suffering."

At the edge of the dreamscape, there lies a yearning heart, softly calling for a past that cannot be reclaimed. Zhao Yuanzhou grapples with a desire for redemption, knowing that the past is unalterable. "The years are filled with grievances" speak not only to his own misfortunes but also to the pains experienced by those around him.

The phrase "No idle wishes, no hopeless longing for eternity" may symbolize his desire for release from his burdens, perhaps through the promise made to him by Zhou Yichen in episode 2 or his pivotal conversation with Zhao Wan'er in episode 6. This suggests a deeper inner conflict, hinting at his overwhelming wish to dismantle "what the goddess is meant to protect."

2. Wen Xiao's song "春风不问" or "Spring Breeze Does Not Ask"
Even amidst the nightmares conjured by her father's illustrations, she found solace in her sleep.
"The person in the dream is silent, moving forward cautiously, hesitant to leave or turn back."

This lyric likely alludes to Zhao Yuanzhou, who frequently haunts her dreams. As he expressed earlier, when she experienced that dream shared by Ran Yi, "it was not a dream; it was simply a memory." This connection emphasizes the blurred line between her dreams and the lingering presence of cherished moments from the past.
He often remains silent, patiently waiting for her, fully aware of the depth of their connection, even as he promised she would one day see him again. In the memories that linger, he stands by her side alongside Zhao Wan'er in the Dahuang.

"At the heavy door, who waited so foolishly? Reluctant, not asking, unreconciled, unwilling." This verse powerfully captures her years of waiting, a testament to her unwavering hope for Yuanzhou’s return—a return that tragically never materialized. The line "unwilling to ask" reveals her fear of confronting the truth, perhaps regarding his true identity or the reasons for his prolonged absence.
Moreover, "unwilling to accept" articulates her heartache over the reality that he could not fulfill the promise he made to her. Another profound lyric states, "Behind the heavy door, whose youth is it? Reluctant to leave, unwilling to ask, unwilling to accept." This moment embodies the bittersweet decision she faced when she finally departed, whether from her adoptive father's home or as she parted ways with the Wilderness after her teacher’s death. A fragment of her youth clings to that place, serving as a poignant reminder of who she once was. Although she feels a deep reluctance to leave her past behind, she realizes that to grow and embrace her future, she must find the strength to move forward, despite the weight of her memories.

3. Zhou Yichen's character song "不念不响" or "Do not Yearn or Make Noise"
"The bell is shaking unintentionally, there is nowhere to hide."
In episode, Yichen elaborates on the significance of the bells woven into his hair. During a conversation with Bai Jiu, he reveals, "He (my brother) was afraid I’d get lost, so he tied many bells on my braids. As long as he heard the sound of the bells, he would know I hadn't gone far." This poignant detail highlights the protective bond between siblings, illustrating how love manifests through these simple yet meaningful gestures.

Bai Jiu, in turn, shares his own nostalgic memory of playing hide-and-seek with his mother, recounting how he would also tie bells in his hair so she could always locate him. This shared experience not only deepens their connection but also emphasizes the importance of being found and cared for. Together, these moments speak to the universal need for security and belonging, reminding us that even in the vastness of life, we are never truly lost when there is someone listening for the sound of our bells.

"It is hard to make friends with one lonely wing."

In episode 6, his brother remarks, "one wing is hard to keep, but with two wings, you are able to soar." This metaphor beautifully captures the essence of companionship and support—without someone by your side, it becomes challenging to navigate the complexities of life. The symbolism of wings signifies not just freedom, but also the collaboration needed to truly thrive.

Interestingly, his second character song is titled "Broken-tailed Bird," further underscoring the theme of fragility and the longing for connection. This title serves as a poignant foreshadowing to the scenes depicted in the MV trailer, hinting at struggles yet to come. Together, these elements weave a narrative about the importance of unity and the difficulties faced when one attempts to fly solo. It becomes clear that to reach new heights, we must learn to cherish and nurture the bonds that allow us to fully spread our wings.


i want to explain more but I wrote a lot yet this drama hold special place in my heart and hope u enjoy it also it's in my top 10 list and one of my fav couple as well as favourite friendship drama all the time.

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They were once a group of six, now reduced to three, then ultimately separated.

This drama by far was one of my most anticipated drama since the first trailer release. I have always known that this story will revolve more on each characters and have a found-family genre. I have always been fond of found-family genres, especially to the fact that one of my favorite books is "Six of Crows"

Reminded me greatly of that as to how quite similar they are that they formed a group, though Six of Crows were a group of thieves.

Now let's talk about the plot. I must say, the first impressions were quite epic for me, the visuals, cinematography, CGI, and fighting choreography were stunning. However though it started quite slow, but I get that since they were actually building up each and everyone's story so them as a group can develop into something more than a group, more like a family. That it until you'll reach around the 16 episode, the story drastically change the route of the quite comedic and epic vibe to the most depressing thing you'll ever see. I must warn you that episodes 16 upto the finale, your heart will start aching for them and wouldn't want anything to happen to any of them.

Zhu Yan/Zhao Yuanzhou is the most fitting for being the main character of this story, his character is really complex. He's the most pitiful character among them, even though he hides it among his sweetest smile, you can feel his pain through his eyes

Wen Xiao, though I have seen people hating on her character but I think those who instantly call her weak does not understand how her character was written. She might be a goddess but she's still a mortal. She might be weak physically but she's still mentally strong. She's very well-written and almost feel like the mother-figure of the group. Sometimes, we don't need the usual strong badass FL, we just need a well-written FL, whether they're weak or not.

Zhou Yichen, he's your typical hero complex character but he in fact is not the bland type of hero. He has singlehandedly became my favorite character as how he developed really well and understand each other in the group. I also found him one of the most pitiful character, it seemed that in his life, those whom he considered very important to him always leave him (EYEING ZHAO YUANZHOU RLLY HARD).

Pei Sijing, this girl too. She started out coldly in the group and also probably rlly started as a spy. But slowly, she warmed up to the whole group and even teamed up with Zhao Yuanzhou's plans with the Chongwu camp. I also made a realization that she started wearing lighter colors after warming up to everyone.

Bai Jiu and Ying Lei, these two were my favorites when it come to something comedic, they always made me feel relieved that they seem to be the one who wants to lighten up the groups mood. But man, they were still so young, too young for them die. Their deaths actually hurt me. They were also one of the closest to Zhou Yichen, and they both left him at the same time. My heart still stings whenever I remember their inevitable fate.

Music:

I actually lost the count how many times I've praised their songs and BGM's, this drama has the most beautiful OST'S. Those Emotional BGM's as well as those epic ones are very engaging. Personally, my favorite will be the main theme

"Big Dream Return" - this song was dedicated to the whole group, no one can convince me otherwise

"Plants do not grieve" - this one is my current obsession at how emotionally good it is, the voice is also quite swift and ugh, I dunno how to explain how beautiful this song is. I must say that this song is dedicated for Yuanzhou and Yichen, you can't change my mind.

"Broken-tailed Bird" - imma tell you how I start bawling my eyes whenever I hear this song, it sounded like a lullaby, quite comforting but also quite hurt. Tian Jiarui's voice kinda hurt here

"Heaven and earth are unrivalled" - No words, just love YANAN'S Swift and smooth voice.

As per rewatching, LOL, I'd rewatch this all day whenever I'd have the chance, it has too many iconic scenes.

Overall: it's more than 10/10 for me. This is the type of magical and engaging series that I kept looking for in the western media. That last one movie that made me felt like this in terms of western media was "The Maze Runner"

Paired with such a fleshed out plot and great world building which is something what I want, just made this drama the best one for me, not just in 2024 but in almost the CDrama years

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RETURN OF THE BIG DREAM / RETURN TO THE OLD HOMETOWN

First Impression:
The storytelling, cinematography, costumes everything was very poetic. I got the feelings of reading a poem while watching this. The pace might be slow for some but trust me it's what makes it more like a poem.

Storyline :
The story revolves around Zhao Yuan Zhou who is a 34000 years old ape demon. He constantly wanted to die. He was charismatic and chatty in front of all. Loves to annoy his teammates but all was simply a disguise to keep his broken heart away from them. When you will get to know his true heart you have already fallen into a deep pit with him. My heart was broken along with him. He's like the poet of this story. He wanted to badly tell us that he is not okay at all. He constantly lives in a despair. He needs someone who will understand his pain, his desperation.
Oneday he will meet those persons who will be the sunshine of his dark life. Even though they didn't want to understand his pain at first but situation forced them to witness the horror he was going through everyday.
It's a story to find out how they will heal his heart and if they can change his will to die. Will they succeed or not? Along with this journey there will be some small stories of the side characters. But the moral of everyone's story is pinpointing ZYZ's miserable life.

Plus points:
Romance, Bromance, Sismance !!!

Acting:
I'm impressed with Hou Ming Hao's acting the most. Zhao Yuan Zhou is a complex character and I believe it's hard to play this type of extreme roles. But there wasn't a single moment where I thought his acting was lacking. A 27 years old boy totally pulled of all the emotions that complicated Zhuyan wanted to tell us. His eye expressions were on point and he forced me to understand each and every pain of ZYZ. As for visual ZYZ was a dashing demon thanks tp Minghao. ZYZ's main wig isn't that good from the front side. Only Minghao can pull off that wig. As Yinglong he looked like a white moon. It's a pity his screentime was too low. I was captivated by Minghao and I am looking forward to his upcoming dramas. There's a high chance he will become a traffic idol soon because of his acting range and gorgeous visual.
I wasn't sure about Chen Du Ling's acting but she proved me wrong. Wenxiao is a character which can be criticized by viewers a lot because of not being strong. But her portrayal of WX was really good.
Other actors and actresses also did an amazing job. I loved Pei Sijing's fighting scenes, Bai Jue's acting. The guest actors were also a treat to my eyes. Though I had a slight problem with ZYC's frowning forhead but it's not a big deal.

OST:
FOF got some splendid osts which is the best of this year. My favorite OST is Yuanzhou's Youth by Minghao ! Tears keep falling from my eyes whenever I listen to it.

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A TRAGIC YET BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED DRAMA

I thoroughly enjoyed this drama, and while the ending was heartbreaking, it was a fitting and inevitable conclusion to the journey we followed. Neo Hou’s performance was truly exceptional, portraying his character’s transformation with profound depth and intensity. He carried the emotional weight of the story effortlessly, making every moment feel genuine and impactful.

Chen Duling, as the female lead, delivered a phenomenal performance. Her portrayal brought an incredible balance of vulnerability and quiet strength to the character. Despite her physical frailty, she conveyed a deep inner resilience and selflessness, making her arc one of the most memorable aspects of the drama. Her nuanced expressions and emotional depth added layers to every scene, ensuring the audience felt every triumph and sacrifice her character endured.

The supporting cast also deserves immense praise, as each actor brought their roles to life with great conviction. From Zhou Yichen’s unexpected growth to Bai Jiu’s unwavering loyalty, and even Ying Lei’s moments of fear turned bravery, every character felt essential to the story’s heart. Their relationships and sacrifices intertwined to create a web of powerful emotions that made this drama unforgettable.

One of the drama’s greatest strengths lies in its exploration of deep and universal themes such as family, friendship, team bonds, loyalty, and sacrifice. These elements formed the core of the story, showcasing how individuals come together in the face of adversity. The dynamics between the characters were rich and compelling, highlighting the importance of trust and unity in overcoming challenges. It impressed me how these relationships evolved naturally, making their triumphs and losses feel personal to the audience.

The flashbacks played a critical role in enriching the narrative. They provided essential context for the characters’ motivations and decisions, allowing the audience to understand the burdens they carried and the sacrifices they made. Rather than simply filling in gaps, these flashbacks added depth to the story, highlighting themes of love, loss, and redemption. They reminded us of the joy and heartbreak of the past, making the present storyline even more impactful. By weaving these moments seamlessly into the main narrative, the drama maintained an emotional rhythm that kept viewers deeply engaged.

Visually, this drama was stunning—whether it was the beautifully shot wilderness scenes or the intricate costumes that captured the historical fantasy essence. Every frame felt like a painting, filled with meticulous attention to detail. The cinematography made the world feel alive and immersive, creating a perfect backdrop for the gripping narrative.

The OST was another highlight, seamlessly weaving into the story’s emotional beats. Its hauntingly beautiful melodies elevated the most poignant scenes, ensuring they linger in the viewer’s mind long after the credits rolled.

Overall, this drama impressed me with its ability to combine a gripping plot, rich character development, and stunning visuals. It was a masterpiece of storytelling that delved into the complexities of human relationships, leaving a lasting impression as both heartbreaking and beautiful.

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Fangs of emotions that touch our hearts!!

Fangs of fortune is a different concept of all the dramas that I have watched so far.It shows us the basic concept of triumph of good over evil in a new way, interwoven with emotions and lifetime bonds formed throughout the journey.
Plot-The story starts off with the intro of Wen Xiao and Zhu Yan,the great demon,who willingly volunteers to help the demon hunting bureau to catch evil demons alongside,Zhuo Yichen, the descendant of Bingyi clan and makes a pact with him.They are joined by Pei Sijing,an excellent archer and Bai Jiu,a talented physician kid.Later on Ying Lei,mountain god,too joins them to solve mysteries in and around Wilderness and Tiandu.
Cast-Neo Hou,as,Zhao Yuanzhou/Zhu Yan is excellent and perfectly cast.I think this is one of his best performances.
Zhu Yan,is,naughty,smart,patient, emotional,caring, loving, kind hearted responsible,great demon.Though he is widely knows as the evil demon,he has a painful side of him but has kept it only to his heart.Neo Hou carried the role of the great demon perfectly.Be it costumes, emotions,teasing, action scenes, charismatic,protective of loved ones,he is the main asset of this drama, in my opinion.His character is well written and presented.
Chen Duling as Wen Xiao,is smart,beautiful, knowledgeable,caring,kind human who feels demons and humans are the same and demons are not to be treated badly.Her acting is also good.
I particularly liked the little romantic scenes between Zhu Yan and Wen Xiao.Their chemistry was also good.
Zhuo Yichen, played by Tian Jiarui,is one friend that everyone dreams of.He is like an elder brother to Ying Lei and Bai Jiu(also a hero for him).I liked the way he always tries to protect his friends and also tries to understand people and their situations.His acting was excellent.
From a person who vows to kill Zhu Yan to a dearest friend who waits for the return Zhao Yuanzhou,I think his inner conflict, struggle,was beautifully portrayed.The best part of this drama is the friendship between Zhu Yan and Zhuo Yichen.I liked how Mr.Zhuo was able to understand all the pain and agony that Zhao Yuanzhou had to endure and hence could not pull himself to kill Zhu Yan.Their relationship is one of the highlights of this drama.
Ms.Pei Sijing,a cold and distant ,introverted,talented archer joins the group to become a friend for a lifetime.Together with her brother Pei Siheng, they are always there to take care of their friends.Theirvsiblung bond was very good.He was always there for his sister in times of need.Cheng Xiao as Pei Sijing and Lai Weiming as Pei Siheng were the best.Their acting was on point and brought the Pei siblings to life.
Lester Lin as Bai Jiu ,who is pampered by the whole group,is outstanding in his role.Be it a timid innocent doctor or a ruthless villain after getting occupied,he was outstanding in his performance.His story was a bit heartwrenching for me.
Xu Zhenxuan as Ying Lei,is surely a good trio with Zhuo Yichen and Bai Jiu.Ying Lei is indeed the best Mountain god.
And finally,Li Lun,played by Yan An,is phenomenal in his acting.Be it sinisterous,threatening,villainous,he is surely that antagonist who makes you fear him.But I liked the way he stood for the protection of the world at the end.
All the other star cast were good in their performances.
The costumes.sets,visual effects, screenplay,and particularly MUSIC were excellent.The music matched well with all the situations and was perfect.
On a final note,Fangs of Fortune is a highly recommended emotional drama which show cases lifetime bonds formed through Demon hunting bureau.The six members are protective of others and are willing to go to great lengths for their friends and the world too.
Also,it show cases that seeing us not believing but everything has its own reasons and causes.
Understanding a person emotionally is tough yet important.
A MUST WATCH DRAMA!!

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In the Land of Saints and Sinners

If I had to describe what Fangs of Fortune is about in just a phrase, I would say it is a series about free will; the freedom of choice.

In a world where humans, demons and gods reside, one might expect good and evil to be clearly divided, but that is not the case.

Both humans and demons are prejudiced against one another. Humans see all demons as evil, and demons believe humans are fragile and incapable of truly understanding them.

Humanity, and subsequently mortality, is about the beauty of an ephemeral and mundane life; it’s about emotions and fragility. Demonhood, and consequently immortality, is about power and the inability to truly feel.

The thing about Fangs of Fortune is that it is not just about the beautiful, yet fantastical, world we see on our screens. It is also about the real world, the one we wake up to every morning. It’s about judging someone without truly knowing them. It’s about labelling someone as good or evil, simply because of a specific characteristic they have. It’s about being hated, even if you did nothing wrong; being hated because of something you couldn’t control. It’s about realizing that you cannot truly understand a situation, unless you have been there. And finally, it is about the fact that no matter who or what you are, no matter what you experience, no matter the hardships you have been through, in the end, what you become is your own choice.

All the characters in this series are proof that everyone is different, and that is the beauty of life, immortal or not. Not every person turns into a villain because of a tragic past, and not every individual becomes kind and considerate just because they lived a good life. It's all about choices, and we always have the power to choose, even in situations where everything seems like a dead end.



Below, I will analyze my personal experience with most of the technical aspects of the series, and I will also answer some common questions you may want to consider, before watching.

DIRECTING AND CINEMATOGRAPHY
Guo Jing Ming has quickly earned a place among my favorite directors. He has the ability to create magic on screen. Every frame is not just beautiful; it is spellbinding. The world he has created here feels like the one my 6-year-old self would have dreamed of living in, despite the dangers it might have held. He captures the beauty of what I envision when I think of Chinese culture. Of course, the slow-motion scenes, the close-ups, and the techniques he is using as a director are a hit or miss. You will either love or hate them, and I am enamored with them.


MAKE UP
If you have also watched My Journey to You, then you’re probably aware that Guo Jing Ming has a tendency to make his characters appear pale on screen. In my opinion, although they don’t always look "real", this choice works in his favor most of the time. However, there were some scenes where I was bothered by the fact that some actors and actresses appeared so pale that it became visually unappealing.


ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK
I have to admit that the songs are somewhat overused in the series. However, individually, every single song is soulful, touching, or simply electrifying.

Here are my three personal favorites:
- Return after a long dream (大梦归离) by Li Yuchun (李宇春)
- Unintentional big dream (无心生大梦) by Liu Yuning (刘宇宁)
- Yuan Zhou’s youth (远舟的少年) by Neo Hou (侯明昊)


ACTING
All of the actors in the series did a solid job with their roles. I wouldn’t say that all of them delivered award-worthy performances, but none of them took away from the drama, while I was watching. Each had their moment to shine, with some performances standing out more than others.

The two people who stood out to me the most were Neo Hou and Tian Jia Rui. Starting with Tian Jia Rui, I had high expectations from him, since I had enjoyed his performance on My Journey to You. Despite having limited experience in acting, he managed to truly bring Zhuo Yi Chen, his character, to life. His eyes are incredibly expressive.

Now, onto Neo Hou. Even though I knew of him as a rising star, I hadn’t seen him in a series before. I was impressed by his performance and how well he managed to portray a character with so many different layers.

On the other hand, if I had to mention one person that impressed me the least, it would be Xu Zhen Xuan as Ying Lei. While he was excellent for the most part, especially in the more lighthearted scenes, I do believe he needs more work when it comes to delivering more emotionally charged performances.

As for Chen Du Ling and Tian Jia Rui, if I could, I would award them the Queen of Tears and King of Tears titles, respectively. It’s truly astounding how effortlessly they manage to cry, and in such a magnificent way (while also looking impressively beautiful).


MYTHOLOGY
Fangs of Fortune may not be based on a book, but it draws inspiration from a classic text, that contains information about mythological creatures, called "Classic of Mountains and Seas" (山海经).

The drama -with liberties involved- manages to intelligently portray various creatures from the text. Not only does it retain many of their key characteristics, but it also incorporates other elements like clothing, make up and more to enhance their depiction.

Take Zhu Yan (朱厌) for example. According to the Classic of Mountains and Seas, he is an ape-like creature with a white face and red feet. In the series, aside the “ape jokes” that gave us a hint of his true form, there were other creative ways that the crew used to portray his demonic form. For instance, in the first few episodes, his clothing is dark red with a white fur, something that is obviously done intentionally. In fact, the red "energy" that surrounds him, made me wonder if it was another way for the director to portray Zhu Yan’s red feet.


PLOT
While Fangs of Fortune has an entertaining plot, with some truly amazing scenes, and I thoroughly enjoyed watching it from start to finish, it would be inaccurate to say that it is perfect. There are several aspects that the scriptwriter/director could have handled differently. For example, aside the first few episodes not being entirely captivating, there were many scenes where conversations were taking place, and the “big threat” was just standing there, waiting for them to finish.

That aside, some characters are underdeveloped and, at times, even forgotten in terms of the plot. There are several liberties taken in this regard. Did it bother me? Not really. However, I do believe that if certain scenes had been portrayed differently and more effectively, the final result would be even better.


HUMOUR
The drama is comedic from start to finish, despite not being advertised as such. As with any “comedy”, it’s something you’ll either love and laugh along with or dislike and roll your eyes at. At first, it caught me off guard, but the more it happened, the more I warmed up to it. Now, I can clearly say that the comedic elements were absolutely hilarious (and pure gold).


CHARACTERS
Like many viewers, I became attached to the characters. Every single one of them brings something unique to the team, and every member is essential.

Zhao Yuan Zhou, Zhuo Yi Chen and Li Lun
In my opinion, these three characters were written with the utmost attention to detail. All of them were very complex, with rich backstories and current experiences that made them layered and multi-faceted and I couldn’t help but feel for them.

Wen Xiao
As the female lead, Wen Xiao serves as the emotional backbone of the team. I do think that in general her character is underdeveloped, but I will touch on that later.

Pei Si Jing
Who doesn’t love a strong female character who can fight and stays true to her values?

Ying Lei
A humorous and kind-hearted character who made me laugh countless times.

Bai Jiu
The team’s doctor, another pretty well-written and multi-dimensional character with a complex, yet fascinating personality.


FEMALE LEAD (?)
As mentioned earlier, Wen Xiao is the emotional backbone of the team. Unfortunately, she is noticeably underdeveloped compared to the others, and she ends up feeling more like a supporting character than the main female lead.

Wen Xiao is portrayed as weak and fragile, something she openly acknowledges. She is kind-hearted, but like everyone else, she can be too quick to judge others sometimes. The main issue I had with her character is that, even though her introduction was magnificent and powerful, she ended up doing very little throughout the series. In the most dangerous and pivotal moments, she was merely a spectator.

Her weakness remains constant throughout the series and many times it felt like she was inserted into certain plotlines/scenes just to be present, rather than having a significant role in the events. There were many scenes where all she did was lie helplessly on the ground, while everyone else fought for their lives. What frustrated me the most is that, despite being portrayed as someone with potential power, she never truly feels like a powerful and important character.


ROMANCE + BROMANCE + SISMANCE
The romance between the two main characters was slow-paced and, unfortunately, underdeveloped. Even though the actors had good chemistry, the portrayal of their characters and their actions never convinced me that they were truly in love. Their "relationship" felt sudden, with barely any build-up. Some of their grand gestures for each other were impactful in concept, but because the romance itself was super underdeveloped throughout the earlier episodes -with most meaningful scenes not being between them- "their moments" failed to leave an impression on me and left me wondering why they are acting the way they do.

On the other hand, the bromance between Zhao Yuan Zhou and Zhuo Yi Chen (and even Li Lun) was the kind of “romance” the series was missing. Not only were the actors phenomenal, with their scenes oozing chemistry, but their relationships were also better written. Because of that, as a viewer, I could better understand and connect with them. Plus, they shared some of the most emotionally impactful moments in the series. Why though? I will get to it later.

Bromance aside, the relationship between Pei Si Jing and Wen Xiao was also beautifully portrayed. Despite their differences, they formed a deep connection and felt so much for one another. Their scenes were magnificent and their conversations were truly beautiful to watch.


ENDING
Obviously, I won’t spoil it for you. I will just say that even though the last episodes were not flawless in terms of execution, thankfully the series did not crash and burn.



Now to the questions:

-> WAS IT AS GOOD AS MY JOURNEY TO YOU?
Fangs of Fortune is fundamentally different from My Journey to You, which makes it impossible to truly compare the two. Even though both series share the same director and as a result they are both visually stunning in their own ways (with some amazing OSTs), that’s where the similarities end.

MJTY was a much darker series -both in terms of cinematography and atmosphere, as well as plot- with limited fantasy elements. It was more dialogue-driven and political, with a heavier atmosphere and barely any comedic elements. On the other hand, Fangs of Fortune, was a fantasy drama through and through, filled with an exquisite amount of comedy and a generally lighter atmosphere. So, it all depends on what you generally enjoy.


-> IS IT BINGE-WORTHY?
Yes and no. For those who generally dislike GJM's directing style -his meticulous attention to visual detail, slow-paced dialogues, hushed voices, and frequent use of slow motion- it might be challenging to watch, let alone binge. However, for viewers that enjoy his approach, binge-watching will probably be a delight.


-> HOW IS THE ROMANCE?
The romance unfolds slowly and it takes a backseat to the series' main storyline, as the focus is mostly on the ensemble of main characters rather than the two "leads." That said, as mentioned above, it is also quite underdeveloped. So, if you are looking for a romance-focused series, this is not the one for you.


-> DOES IT PORTRAY A NON-PLATONIC RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE TWO MALE LEADS?
That is a very complicated question. Of course, it could never truly be a same-sex romance, since there is a ban on same-sex relationships portrayed on screen in China. However, Guo Jing Ming has incorporated many homoerotic undertones between some of the characters -and this is not the first time he’s done so-.

For me, it’s evident that the director/scriptwriter would likely have pursued a different kind of relationship between the two male leads, if it wasn’t for the ban. I know many of you may disagree, but I’d like to share my thoughts on this.

First of all, there are many scenes that are undeniably not purely platonic (like the hairpin scene between two of the characters or the red string scene). Additionally, the main male characters are much more complex and layered compared to the female lead. In fact, the most impactful moments, the ones that really stand-out, happen between the two male leads and not between the male and female lead.

In addition, the way that GJM directed the drama makes it evident that he was willing to go in that direction if he could. Their interconnected fates, their glances, their touches, their bickering, their reactions when it came to one another -all of it- had far more depth compared to the main romance. The fact that the female lead was weak and underdeveloped, coupled with her random appearances in certain scenes, further reinforces the idea that the romance between the mains was never meant to be the central focus.

Lastly, it doesn’t matter whether you consider their relationship platonic, brotherly, romantic or something else entirely. Their bond is unquestionably powerful, something that I don’t believe anyone can truly deny. The fact that the female lead is not the focus of the series at all and barely appears in the last few episodes, made me even more convinced that this was a story about something much different and deeper than what we initially expected.


All in all, Fangs of Fortune took me by surprise and I think it will be a long time before I get over it. It ruined me and healed me simultaneously. Despite its flaws, it was an incredible watch. The characters, their stories, the OST, the underlying message and the overall experience of watching it are things I won’t forget.


I will leave you with one of the many beautiful quotes of the drama about mortality and death:
"Tears has nothing to do with age and nothing to do with strength or weakness. It has something to do with our hearts. Humans are soft-hearted. Soft things will always be pricked by something hard and cold and death is the hardest and coldest thing in this world."

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Drama Worth the Watch!

If you want to watch a wonderfully crafted drama, then Fangs of Fortune is that drama. Yes, I loved this drama, but I have to give some shoutouts here:

Hair/Jewelry - You did that hair - braids, hairpins, bells and just decorations in the hair were fly! Yes!
Makeup - Hello and holler, the makeup was on point. Looking at that tat going down ZYZ's neck, and the demon marks, whoever design those, you are bad.
Costumes - Two snaps for real. They were all slaying those looks. Loved them all.
Stunt Coordinators - We all know there were a lot of you working on those stunts. Each and every one was bad ass! We appreciate all the hard work! So worth it!
Special Effects - You all did the damn thing with those effects!
OST - The beat stayed in your head when things were about to go down. That's what you want. Good job!

There were thousand in front of the camera behind the camera who never get the kudos. Sending out much love and appreciation to those in the highest and lowest positions. We see you and trust we know all the hard work you all do. Thank you!

So many beautiful people in this drama. But the men. FINE! FINE! FINE! Seriously. I couldn't stand it.

I have to say, the crying these actors/actresses did, I don't know how you all kept it up. I felt like I needed to be crying too. And speaking of actors/actresses, nicely done and executed. Big shout out to ZYZ, ZYC and LL. You three -- WOW. Especially, ZYZ you owned every scene you were in. Bravo.

Definitely one that is worth the watch and truly we are fortunate to watch such a beautifully crafted work of cinematography.

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