A Lenda de Shen Li (2024)

visually and audibly pleasing Xianxia

Having just finished the final episode of The Legend of Shen Li, I feel compelled to acknowledge its standout conclusion. Unlike many xianxia dramas that rush their endings, this one dedicated an entire episode post-climax, allowing for a satisfying resolution. While the series isn't flawless, I found myself fully engaged throughout, which is a rarity for me. Completing it without skipping much content was a significant achievement. One of its strongest assets lies in its production quality—the OST, CGI, and costumes were visually and audibly stunning, elevating the overall experience. Despite its lacking plot, this drama is worth considering for its impressive production values, strong and smart FL and ML, as well as their great chemistry.

Leia Mais

The drama that ruined an entire genre for me

— "Sturdy, sharp, lethal, but it dazzles brilliantly. "
— "I’m hard and sharp, but you’re the lethal one aren’t you? "
— "Sort of. "

A strange “chicken” that falls from the sky and a sickly human with a mysterious identity who comes to its rescue: from the very first episode, you can't look away from this incredible drama. I'm actually writing this review as I'm watching this drama for the second time in the year of its release.

I often skip scenes when listening to Chinese dramas, since with around forty episodes, there are often boring scenes that are there only as filling, but with this drama, I wasn't bored for a single minute—there's an excellent balance between plot, romance and humor.

The characters in this drama were refreshing. The main female character, Shen Li, is strong, responsible and stubborn yet cute. She has a unique charm. On the other hand, Xingzhi seems weak and a bit goofy, but he possesses great wisdom. If Shen Li is fire, he is water. These two actors have done a remarkable job, and their chemistry is out of this word.

As for the production, I loved everything: the special effects, the costumes, the make-up, the landscapes, but above all the music, which gave me chills and tears in almost every episode.

In short, this drama is a curse: I don't know if I'll ever be able to find a drama better or even as good as this one.

Go watch it right now!

Leia Mais

Beauty in Pain

I've been in a drama drought the whole year and was solely waiting on this drama to finish airing because from the trailers, I've been absolutely looking forward to watching 'The Legend of Shen Li' and boy did this not dissappoint.

Talk about an honest ROMANCE, talk about non-cliche's, talk about breaking the mold, talk about character development, talk about non-one dimensional villains, talk about great dialogues, talk about fleshed out happy endings; this had everything that makes a great drama!!

The romance is truly the main star of this drama. The last couple of episodes were heartbreaking yet so beautiful to watch because you could see and truly feel from the screen the enormous amount of love Shen Li and Xing Zhi have for each other. I don't think any other couple have made me think, "Wow, what an absolutely beautiful and sincere display of love this is!" while balling my eyes out at the pain the characters and viewers were being inflected with.

My main highlights of this drama are self explanatory, but to expand on one aspect of what I mean by breaking the mold, I really liked the whole part of this drama that deals with the discussions regarding the Ancient gods, why they were created and how they they are expected to carry themselves. Specifically, I loved that our leads were defying norms by not just accepting their fate but fighting the 'Laws of Nature' and condemning the hypocricy/conflicting expectations the higher powers have towards the Ancient gods as well as the expectations of the citizens. It was just so satisfying to see characters curse at the higher powers, and stand up for themselves when faced with pressure to act a certain way. Like no, f you, why should I keep suffering for your sins? Can't I rest and enjoy my life too? Why give me emotions but dissallow me from expressing them? I just really loved this whole discussion. The overall dialogue in the drama was written so well.

This drama was just completely refreshing to watch. The cinematography and CGI were beauuutiful, the OST is 100/100 (probably my second fave thing about this drama), the acting was soooo freaking good - Episode 38 was the most painful episode but both actors did such a fantastic job, I know I'll be going back to rewatch this and more episodes in the future.

The drama did have a few shortcomings. My main problem with it was the lack of story/plot line. In the beginning it just felt completely aimless, I kept asking myself, "Where exactly are we going with this?", "What's the story here?", so you might watch this and feel things are progressing slowly but it eventually picks up. Also, although the romance was intense and there was great chemistry between the leads, the kissing scenes were minimal (save for last ep) and a bit off; I felt like ZLY was at least trying, while LGX was not giving at all lmao.

Overall, a fantastic drama. If you don't know what to watch, give this a go. If you're tired of clichés and same old stories, give this a go. If you're in the mood for a slow burn, angsty but intense romance, give this a go, you'll definitely finish this with something good to say.

Leia Mais

I saw the trailer for this show and I got really excited. Not only is Zhao Liying and Li Gengxin doing another collab but I get excited when I see my favorite actors and actresses star in a fantasy drama.

My favorite thing about this show is the music. The background music of Shen Li's battle scenes is really good. The first time I heard it, it struck me and it gives this feeling of bravery. The OST in general for this drama is very good.

The costuming was wonderful. I loved all of Shen Li's outfits and I loved seeing her in different outfits throughout the drama. Her hairstyle was fantastic. As someone who is constantly on the battlefield, her outfits give off a General's vibe but also show her feminine side. I can't really say the same for Xing Zhi. His hairstyle was very simple and so was his clothing which I could deal with it.

The acting in this show was super good, especially on the last episode. I loved watching Shen Li's attitude and her stubbornness. It really was giving off strong female lead and I loved it. I also loved watching Fu Rong and You Lan mature in this drama.

I'm not disappointed in this drama and I gotta say it's decently good.

Leia Mais

Epic!!

Man, did I bawl my eyes out in the last handful of episodes… This was one epic show wow. I loved the beginning and knew immediately that I would have a fantastic time watching it. And I was right (obviously🤭). While it had its quieter moments (in comparison to future epic moments), this was amazing from start to finish. I loved the beginning and second half (especially episodes 20 to 26), and last handful of episodes (8 maybe). I loved the steadiness of the characters, their loyalty and understanding of each other. The chemistry between the lead actors was amazing, and I just generally loved how despite the occasional banter the overall romance remained quite mature🥹. They both listened and tried to see the other’s perspective despite having different principles or views in specific situations. Their love was unconditional. I also loved the OST, it’s so perfect and epic. Whenever Shen Li’s theme played, I was happy. I was always anticipating it whenever a fight scene came up because I knew it was going to look extra cool with the music🙏🏻! The cinematography, settings, styling, fight scenes, etc. were also just *chef’s kiss*. And that ending… 🥹🥹 Granted, the last episode was like a big side quest for our couple, and hilarious at that, but the final scene was just so wholesome🪻🥹. Overall, great show, loved it a lot!!💞

Leia Mais

Excellent Xianxia : same universe as TMOPB, but different vibe.

For me, the universe is quite similar as TMOPB, but the tone is different.

PLOT: A young phoenix/demon general, (the FL) meets -in the mortal realm- the last of the old gods (the ML) in cultivation. She flees her arranged marriage with the grandson of the Celestial God, whom she considers frivolous and brainless. ML & FL will spend time together and form a deep bond. But this divine lord carries on his shoulders the balance of the 3 kingdoms and cannot let himself be disturbed by love.

This first narrative arc, short (10 episodes), is quite light. The narration is fast and the main characters well described. Overall, the CGI is good, but the spirit beasts and other animals are unconvincing.

The 2nd story arc tells the return to the immortal kingdom and the rise in power of the “villains”. New characters appear (granddaughter of the Celestial God) to lighten the rather dark tone. The FL will fight to the death. We then have several painful episodes, both for the FL and the ML.

During the 3rd story arc, the ML is now ready to accept his love. This is where he is most vulnerable and most moving. He puts the FL back on her feet, with Lady Jin 's help, a wacky character well-found to bring a little touch of humor. And everyone prepares themself for the final Great Battle.
There are a lot of flashbacks, cleverly introduced, to provide explanations for the arrival of events. I really like the characters of Liuyu and Fenglai.
The Happy Ending is well developed (2 episodes), but the "wink to Lady Jin - her fiancé" is a bit forced, not too successful.

PROS:
+ A great CL with Lin Geng Xin and Zhao Li Ying (alchemy & talent: a GREAT couple)
+ The actors are TOP (all).
+ The CGI (except animals) are very successful
+ The fight scenes are perfect
+ Sceneries, settings, make-ups, .... perfect.
+ The OSTs are epic and well suited (except during a painful scene, catchy music :( )
+ No real love triangle.

CONS:
- The romance / action / humor / melodrama balance is not as good as expected. There is too much suffering and the humor is a little forced.
- Some twists seem a bit artificial.

=> An excellent Xianxia, ​​fast paced, not too long, with a great cast and a great CL... but not up to the level of the mischief and humor of TMOPB for me.

***************************************************************************************
Excellent Xianxia avec Lin Geng Xin et Zhao Li Ying en CL.
L'univers est assez semblable à TMOPB, mais le ton est différent.

PLOT: Une jeune phoenix / générale démon, (la FL) rencontre -dans le royaume mortel- le dernier des anciens dieux (le ML) en cultivation. Elle fuit son mariage arrangé avec le petit-fils du Dieu Céleste, qu'elle juge frivole et écervelé. Ils vont passer du temps ensemble et tisser un lien profond. Mais ce seigneur divin porte sur ses épaules l'équilibre des 3 royaumes et ne peut pas se laisser troubler.

Ce 1er arc narratif, court (10 épisodes), est assez léger. La narration est rapide et les principaux personnages bien décrits. Globalement, les CGI sont de bonne qualité, mais les bêtes spirituelles et autres animaux sont peu convaincants.

Le 2e arc narratif traite du retour dans le royaume immortel, de la montée en puissance des "villains". De nouveaux personnages apparaissent (petite-fille du Dieu Céleste) pour alléger le ton plutôt sombre. La FL va se battre jusqu'à la mort. On a ensuite plusieurs épisodes douloureux, tant pour la FL que le ML.

Durant le 3e arc narratif, le ML est désormais prêt à assumer son amour. C'est là qu'il est le plus vulnérable et le plus émouvant. Il remet la FL sur pied, avec l'aide de Dame Jin, personnage loufoque bientrouvé pour apporter un peu d'humour. Et tout le monde se prépare pour aborder la Grande Bataille finale.
Il y a beaucoup de flash-backs, astucieusement introduits, pour donner les explications sur l'arrivée des évènements. J'aime beaucoup les personnages de Liuyu et de Fenglai.
La Happy End est bien développée (2 épisodes), mais le "clin d'oeil Dame Jin- son fiancé" est un peu forcé, pas trop réussi.

PROS:
+ Un CL génial (alchimie, talent : a GREAT couple)
+ Les acteurs sont au TOP (tous).
+ Les CGI (sauf animaux) sont très réussis
+ Les scènes de fight sont parfaites
+ Les OST sont épiques et bien adaptés (sauf lors d'une scène douloureuse, une musique entrainante :( )
+ Pas de réel love triangle.

CONS:
- L'équilibre romance / action / humour / mélo n'est pas aussi bon qu'attendu. Il y a trop de souffrance et l'humour est un peu forcé.
- Certains twists semblent un peu artificiels.

=> Un excellent Xianxia, rythmé, pas trop long, avec un super cast et un CL génial ... mais pas à la hauteur de la malice et de l'humour de TMOPB pour moi.

Leia Mais

An absolute slaughter of all the other badass female Lead plot.. Wuxia cum Xianxia at it's limit..

This is the most Unique drama that i have ever seen. I really don't know where to start since every little thing in this drama is way too perfect to comment.


Zhao Li Ying as Shen li was the best here, since she is the Hero herself in this series, there was no 'saving of damsel in distress' plot in this series rather it was saving ML by FL in few scenes. She really did too good with her weapon even. I didn't know that, even FL can use spear this good. Why is she so good?. I Never felt bored in any of the fight scenes rather I watched all the fight scenes repeatedly and i was really wonderstruck with the way Shen Li fought in this series..woah, the courage , the valour, the arrogance she had definitely suited her the best. A TOTAL BADASS FL

The expressions passed the emotions she wanted to deliver. When she cried while looking at her father i felt how innocent a daughter can be in front of her father. Then the love of Shenli on Xingzhi was too good. How can someone fall in love like this?my goodness. I loved Shen Li the most, especially her arrogance. The strength and power she showcased was admirable. I don't know how many times she has spun to deliver the extraordinary fight scenes.

Furong took the role of a comedian and he actually nailed it. The atrocities he did to stop their marriage was hilarious to the point that i have to take break in the middle to stop my laughter. Her sister was the cream of the top to beat his brother up to see wat happened btw Xing Zhi and Shenli and ship them. The came the character development of Furong being matured in the last episodes. It was good to see how he accepted the relationship btw the leads and became a good buddy to shen li

Mofang, Woahh one of my favourite characters. His loyalty, his love for Shenli is truly emotional to me personally. He protected her till the end . i know how difficult it is to act dual personality and being possessed but he just slayed it. His Blood filled hand at the end which was risen to ask forgiveness melted my heart. how can they be this good? i really wonder

Xing zhi: I noticed many of them talking about his bad acting but it is not the way i see it coz his character itself is like that. Being nonchalant and aloof. towards the end he really showed how good his acting was. This plot is actually biased towards Female lead, So i feel like he wasn't much highlighted but towards the end everything changed and the plot went too well

Ms.jin and her seductive act made this drama more beautiful. though she came for hardly 3 eps, she nailed it and she isn't forgetful for some reason may be coz she is beautiful or may be she acted the best

The love story between Fenglai and liuyu(Shen Li's parents) was too short but you know what it was perfectly executed in a very short time. the emotions went right through my heart and i cried a lot at their tragic end. Omg it's still lingering inside me.

The background score was the Finest. The most different and the most beautiful BGMs, OST's in Chinese drama. I'm serious. All the scenes are truly enhanced by the music, and that is how a music should work. Singers did so great. I loved it to the extend that i set those as my ringtone. The VFX and CGI was also great.

I really didn't find anything bad in this series. Everything is perfect, just perfect.
why is everything this good in this series?? whyyyyyyyy?

Thank you for the team and cast for this masterpiece. You guys have worked really hard on it.
and It's definitely rewatchable for N number of times.

Leia Mais

Bestttttt combo

One of the best drama. Amazing chemistry between leads which is already proven. Still they have charismatic chemistry which made watch this at first. Story seems to be more interesting at the end for me. Lord xingzhi characterization is entirely different from other lords or divines in Chinese drama. He's always smiling and cool personality. I loved him. Character development of furong jun is also greatttttt from a Playboy to responsible guy. I also liked the chemistry and love story between liu yu and feng lai. As always zhao yiling has portrayed a strong self independent incompatible lady rather than sticking to the typical cute shy foolish Chinese drama female leads. It's always good and great feeling to watch something different in acting, stories etc. I should say MUST WATCH..... U GET SEE ONE OF BEST LEAD CHEMISTRY AND ROMANCE. I would appreciate director for giving them happy ending which is also rare in c industry. I m gonna miss this and I m glad I could watch this

Leia Mais

A breath of fresh air from stereotypical xianxia endings!

Another masterpiece from queen zly! In a world of repetitve xianxia plots and endings, this one has proven me wrong. Xianxia dramas are more than just heaven vs demon troupes. Despite the simple plot, I can say that everything was flawless from the acting, production, costume, and especially the film scoring, it sets the whole mood of the drama. They never fail to make me feel so many emotions at the same time it's fun and this is one of the dramas that I can say every actor played their part well. The last eps had my eyes bawling but the last ep has taken those sorrows away cause xianxia dramas always give us awful endings. Will consider this as part 2 for princess agents. Thank you for collaborating again zly and lgx, you have continuously proven that you are deserving veteran actors. This will surely be one of my faves!!!♡

Leia Mais

Good one

The Legend of Shen Li" follows the journey of Shen Li, a girl who flees from her betrothal as the Fire God, ultimately losing her powers and transforming into a Phoenix. She is taken in by a mortal man who raises her until she eventually reverts to her original form, albeit powerless. This marks the beginning of her quest to regain her powers and uncover her past, as well as the start of her love story. While the initial part of the drama may feel monotonous, it gains momentum once the male lead confronts his feelings, making the last 15 episodes particularly engaging. The chemistry between the leads adds depth to the storyline, making it an overall enjoyable drama.

Leia Mais