Legend of the White Snake

Legend of the White Snake, broadcasted by iQiyi in 2019, is an enchanting and captivating historical fantasy TV series. It derives its roots from one of China's most beloved romantic folklores, placing itself in the ranks of timeless tales rife with fantasy, destiny, love, and humanity. It is a spellbinding reinterpretation that brings new elements to the traditional tale while maintaining its essence and soul.

The narrative orbits around two characters, Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian. Bai Suzhen is the central character of the tale - a white snake spirit who, after thousands of years of cultivation, has achieved human form. Bai Suzhen, portrayed by Ju Jingyi, masterfully embodies her character's struggles and determination, presenting emotions with a depth that pulls the audience further into the story. Xu Xian is a kind-hearted and studious young man who inadvertently becomes involved in the world of spirits and celestial beings. He is played by Yu Menglong and the audience feels the gentle compassion and tenacity he brings to the role.

The tale unfolds as Bai Suzhen's path intertwines with that of Xu Xian. They fall in love despite the natural divide between the ordinary human world and the mystical realm of spirits. Their love story is told against the backdrop of historical China, with stunning sets and lavish wardrobes that bring the ancient period to life. The series skillfully presents the couple's trials and tribulations, love, loyalty, and sacrifice.

Their story is not devoid of antagonists, and thus, enters Fa Hai, played by Pei Zitian. Fa Hai is a powerful and disciplined demon hunter who sees the world as a clear division between good (humans) and evil (spirits). He becomes the main obstacle in Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian's love story as he vehemently opposes their relationship. His character serves as a lens through which viewers can scrutinize and challenge their conceptions of morality and ethics.

Legend of the White Snake underpins its dramatic action with quality special effects, underlining the celestial elements and giving the world of spirits a grandeur fitting of its mythical status. It creatively blends CGI with practical design elements to render a visually spectacular series that captivates viewers.

While the narrative centers explicitly on the Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian romance, it also explores a rich array of secondary characters, each with their unique narratives that simultaneously weave into the broader storyline. Characters like Xiao Qing, Bai Suzhen's loyal friend and fellow snake spirit; and Yan Zifei, a butterfly spirit nursing a broken heart, augment the primary plot by embodying valuable themes of friendship, loyalty, heartbreak, and female solidarity.

The series manages to strike a balance between light-hearted moments and emotionally intense sequences, resulting in a delightful viewing experience that tugs at heartstrings. Interjections of humor, often delivered through side characters, provides clever relief from the more serious undertones of the primary plot.

Moreover, the musical score of the series reinforces the immersion into the story, underscoring the emotional highs and lows with a variety of tunes. The soundtrack, sometimes lilting and sometimes powerful, perfectly encapsulates the essence of this legendary tale.

What sets Legend of the White Snake apart from other reinterpretations is its focus on Bai Suzhen's journey. This imagining of the tale firmly establishes its central character as an independent, powerful woman torn between her love for a mortal and her responsibility as a spirit. It is a character study, giving viewers insight into her struggles and evolution as a character.

The 2019 iQiyi's rendition of Legend of the White Snake stands strong as a testament to its directors' innovative storytelling vision. This fresh interpretation of the tale brings in new elements that not only entertain and engage but also provoke introspection on themes like love beyond differences, the thin line separating good and evil, and an exploration of self.

For lovers of historical fantasy dramas, Legend of the White Snake offers a refreshing twist on a well-known story, embedding the timeless tale with dynamic characters, a gripping storyline, stunning visual elements, and a captivating soundtrack. This TV series serves as an excellent platform to explore Chinese folklore, indulging the audience in a captivating narrative journey that resonates through time.