Both are visually stunning gothic horror romances directed by Guo Jingming. This particular director has a distinctive visual storytelling style that's present in all of his works.

Both are set in the Republican era and have a similar premise with characters that have a ambivalent relationship dynamic.

*Both are period costume dramas, more or less. One is slightly more Wuxia themed - that being AD.
*There's lots of sleuthing, case solving, sword fighting, forensic science, etc
*Main characters are smart asf but stupid when it comes to matters of the heart
*Conspiracy/hidden secret trope
*Both are more on the "slight romance" spectrum
*Both could also do with a S2...

While Tientsin Mystic is more on the supernatural side of things, it does share a similar ambiance to that of AMA.

Both have:
- well-written and developed characters
- eye candy...lots of eye candy, people
- a thrilling and cohesive storyline/plot
- strong friendships/camaraderie/squad goals for days
- slight romance (more like the subplot)
- production value is top-tier/cinematography is aesthetic asf
- fantastic chemistry between the cast
- both take place in the 1930s/1940s
- great action sequences/fun antics

- the overall ambiance/narrative are pretty similar
- both take place in the 1930s/1940s
- both are heavy on family dynamics; love, hate, strife, etc.
- both are well-written and executed
- amazing cast of characters you won't soon forget
- the romance is beautiful, yet heartwrenching in both
- emotionally moving and angst-y
- will make you cry at least once, 100% guaranteed