Once Upon A Time In Lingjian Mountain

Once Upon a Time in Lingjian Mountain is a captivating Chinese fantasy television series that debuted in 2019 on iQiyi. The series is based on the popular online novel "Cong Qian You Zuo Ling Jian Shan," by Guowang Bixia. This enchanting blend of action, drama, and adventure transports viewers to a mystical world where the struggle for survival is both arduous and exciting, and the frontier between the realms of the supernatural and the mundane may not be as pristine as it seems.

The story mainly revolves around Wang Lu, a talented yet unconventional young man who joins the Spirit Blade Sect, a legendary martial arts institution of Lingjian Mountain. The Spirit Blade Sect is known for its martial arts prowess and its duty to maintain peace and order in the realm. Wang Lu, known for his sharp wit, unique insights, and surprising ingenuity, has a different approach to his training, invoking interest and sometimes scorn from his peers and masters.

Wang Lu's journey of self-discovery and personal growth forms a critical backbone of this compelling series. As he aims to become a powerful cultivator of Lingjian Mountain, he faces a series of trials and tribulations. His irreverent attitude and free-wheeling style often bring unexpected results, which create captivating subplots and mini narratives in the overarching story.

In his journey, he befriends an array of fascinating characters from different backgrounds, including the mysterious young maiden Feng Ling, who, with her own interesting backstory and abilities, is the source of both trouble and triumph for Wang Lu. Their interactions help shape the story and give depth to the characters, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to the series.

At the same time, the series delves into the dark secrets and tumultuous politics of the Sect and the broader martial arts world. As Wang Lu progresses in his training and cultivation, he is thrust deeper into a world of chaos, danger, and long-buried histories. In this world, loyalties are fluid and deceptions abound. Wang Lu, known for his cleverness, finds himself in a battle of wits and strategy, often going against the conventional wisdom and traditions embedded in the society's structure.

Once Upon a Time in Lingjian Mountain takes viewers on an extraordinary roller coaster ride filled with magical abilities, supernatural beings, moral dilemmas, and the enduring themes of loyalty, bravery, and the pursuit of power. The series boldly uses symbolism, satire, meta-references, and comedy to enhance its narrative, making it more refreshing.

The cultural diversity and richness embedded within the narrative offer cultural insights into Chinese folklore, martial arts, and philosophy. While exploring universal themes like love, friendship, rivalry, and personal growth, the show presents a distinctive storytelling style, peppered with nuanced humor and a dash of irreverence, making it a standout from traditional martial arts dramas.

The series showcases remarkable production quality. The lush cinematography provides a visually immersive viewing experience, depicting scenic landscapes and elaborate sets that bring the magical world of Lingjian Mountain to life. Coupled with advanced special effects that showcase the dazzling martial arts sequences and magical spells, the series offers an audio-visual treat.

Performances by the ensemble cast are commendable. Xu Kai, in the role of the unconventional yet brilliant Wang Lu, truly shines, delivering the tongue-in-cheek humor, and sense of mischief of his character, while also imbuing sincerity and relatability to his portrayal. His chemistry with the other members of the cast, particularly with Sandrine Pinna, who plays Feng Ling, is one of the show's definite highlights.

Once Upon a Time in Lingjian Mountain is more than just a typical fantasy drama. It is a cleverly woven story that maintains a fine balance between humor and action, traditional and modern, fantasy and reality. With its compelling narratives, well-rounded characters, and visually stunning scenery, it offers an entertaining and enriching viewing experience, making it well worth the watch.