One of the best
At first I hesitated on watching this because of the "BL" theme from the novel. And I thought it felt weird to watch Xiao Zhan and Wang Yibo play this BL character. But when I learned that the series is different from the novel and the BL element was subtle, I thought I would give it a try. And I did not regret it. I enjoyed this drama thoroughly and it's one of the best that I've watched so far. I thought the pace was good and not boring. The story line, the cast and the OST is great. This one definitely has a high rewatch value.Was this review helpful to you?
Usually I stay away from Chinese dramas because it's super lengthy and with so many characters. I like my dramas short with max 24 episodes. But with this drama, I want more than 50 episodes!
The first 6 episodes were a bit confusing for me with so many names, sects etc.. But after re-watching, I kinda got the hang of it and since I can't wait for subs, I started reading the novel as well. The drama followed the novel closely which is fantastic. Although there were changes made to make it easier for watching and make it not confusing. I like that the story (especially in the book) itself is not wholly focused on, let's just say brotherhood between the leads. It's so much more as it kinda examines the nature of what is considered good and what is evil. Is WWX evil? Is JGY evil? Is NHS evil?Were the characters at some point evil? There were so much gray areas and you could just tell that at the end of the day, all characters were just being human. They were susceptible to anger, mistakes, joy, selfishness etc. No one is truly good and no one is truly evil.
Anyway with regard to acting, XZ was a bit extra in the first few episodes and WYB has that dead fish look. But come episode 10 onward, you can see there's a shift on how they acted out their characters. I think it was in episode 13 or 14 when I truly felt/saw their chemistry. Finally a connection between them! XZ was really able to capture WWX's character. He was able to deliver WWX's naughty, playful side, his heartbreak and agony and being such a baby in front of his shijie. WYB at first was very wooden but eventually improved with his micro expressions which made me feel for LWJ. I think with the right direction and projects these two could really hone their acting abilities.
Technically speaking there were so much room for improvement with the editing, lighting and framing of some shots. But I can overlook this because the overall product was really great! I still re-watch this show on weekends
So after a very long entry above, here's what I really liked:
- Drama storyline following the novel closely.
- Chemistry between characters. Not just between WWX and LWJ. I also love Yunmeng siblings! I can write a 10,000 word essay on JC and his relationship with WWX or the Jiang family dynamics (including WWX because he's family).
- The acting though there's still room for improvement.
- Music
A bit on the downside:
- Some technical - CGI, scene framing, editing, lighting
- Some disjointed parts
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Viewers watching costume C-dramas these days might think the costumes are not elaborate enough, but for me prefer it this way since when in the olden days were outfits that fancy. And sometimes simple is more. (Why I say this is Lan Wangji styling).
This brings me to casting. The casting of Xiao Zhan and Wang Yibo is just wonderful. Their acting and visuals so complement each other. Xiao Zhan was so expressive and portrayed Wei Wuxian's character development so well, from youth to anti-hero. (Especially liked it when Wei Wuxian when into his dark mode). On the other hand, Wang Yibo portrayed a character that speaks little. But his micro-expressions said so much. Like you didn't need to know what he was thinking. (I was so impressed that I even looked up who this actor is, only to find out he was 20 years old when he filmed this. ) Actually, every character visually matched their characters and carried out their roles well. For me, this goes to show that the directors knew how to guide the cast to bring the storyline and character dynamics to life.
About the wire work/action scenes/visual Sfx. C-dramas are known for this and it isn't my first watching wire work in C-dramas, but for me I it is unforgettable how Wang Yibo portrayed Lan Wangji. Him flying in or doing martial arts scene just felt like art, graceful but powerful. The production did so right in bringing Lan Wangji to life. Viewers of today might think the visual Sfx leaves more to desire, but for me I was not bothered by it at all (keep in mind this drama was released in 2019 ) and did not overpower the storyline likes of which can be seen in some C-dramas. I like that you can see old-school style visual Sfx too.
Overall, had an eggcellant time watching this drama. Would recommend.
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I'm sure there were flaws along the way, but because so many things were done right in this drama it's easy to overlook or forget those things. I really loved the novel, but there were certain things done in the drama that I thought enhanced the story. I'm sure that some people would easily be able to watch this show and just see the relationship between the two leads as a deep friendship, but the reason I was hooked was because after two episodes I was absolutely convinced that it was more than that. The chemistry between the two leads was absolutely magical. I was really impressed with how the drama was able to draw out all that angst in the story and still manage to provide enough fluffiness to make every scene totally worth it!
The only reason I regret watching this is because now I don't know what else is out there that would compare to this series. I love epic love stories, wuxia , fantasy, and supernatural elements and this nailed all of that for me in a most satisfying way.
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Best drama
One of the best drama.. Everything is perfect in this drama from acting to music.. Nd of course no words for the storyline.. Its like once you enter the untamed world there is no exit ..Xiao zhan is just perfect as Wei wuxian.. Its like he was born to play that role.. Nd he is soo pretty its unbelievable ❤
Yibo as Lan wangji also did a great job..
Every actor played their characters really well thats why its become so successful drama..
Just vfx are not so good nd I know its due to budget problem..
It is one of those dramas who deserve the hype its getting..
#Wangxian forever ❤
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One of the best drama all universe all time masterpiece
Once you´re at the end, you´re at the beginning.Thanks to the Novel, "Mo Dao Zu Shi" by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu, this masterpiece was produced and released early enough to cure depression. Due to the 50 Episodes, it might seem like a long way to go but don´t be hasty with your judgement because your decision to not watch it, will leave an invisible scar in your creative mind. Not only are the actors superb - I am not only talking about the main cast here - and reliable in their execution of every scene, but also the plot is unique and will keep you wanting for more.
Initially, I wasn´t that excited to watch this series and spend 2.250 minutes in total watching it. If back then I only knew how wrong I was. Presently, I think I spend even more time being obsessed with it. Once you´re at the end, you´re at the beginning.
Starting off with the novel has about 130 chapters and thematizes the origin and the hardship of the "friendship" between Lan Zhan and Wei Wuxian, which was implemented so well in the filming. (Once you read the novel, you get what I mean) While the original web novel depicted an explicit romance between the two main male characters, the adaptation was censored with homoerotic subtexts instead due to China's ban on LGBT portrayals in films. Nevertheless, it was portrayed well enough to not be disappointing, since the actors put a lot of effort to show their feelings without the need for physical touch.
Besides the tragic main plot of Wei Wuxian’s search for himself and the sacrifices he has to make, there are also side stories that make the Drama definitely worth watching. Especially the tragedy of Yi City. You just have to watch it.
The most interesting gift that this series gives you tho, is the ability to see through a monotone facade of "... is evil" or "... is good". I would say it is a life-changing and instructive drama than most of the dramas I saw. It will give you insights into the life of a wrongly accused soul, fighting their way to survive the hell of prejudices/being a villain. On the other hand, we have a killer, whose murder impulse got triggered by the unloving and mean environment.
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A MASTERPIECE
The Untamed is legit a masterpiece, and I’ve watched it more than 10 times, and honestly, I could watch it a hundred more. Every time, it’s like I find something new to appreciate, and the magic never fades. If you’ve read the books, watched the anime, or just love a good story, this drama is an absolute gem.Let’s talk about the leads—Xiao Zhan and Wang Yibo. I don’t understand how some people say Wang Yibo didn’t do a good job because, honestly, he was Lan Zhan. From his stoic expressions to the rare moments of vulnerability, every bit of his performance screamed the essence of the character. Same goes for Xiao Zhan as Wei Wuxian. He absolutely became Wei Wuxian—his playful yet deep personality, his charm, and his internal struggles. It was like the two of them were the characters from the book. They didn’t just act; they embodied them in every scene.
The chemistry between Wei Wuxian and Lan Zhan is just on another level. It’s not just about the romance (although, let’s be real, it's so good)—it’s the bond between them, the trust, and the history that builds with each episode. Their relationship feels so raw and genuine, and it’s one of those things that never gets old, no matter how many times I’ve seen it.
I also love how the drama stays so true to the source material. The plot, the world-building, the character arcs—everything feels so well thought out. The music, the visuals, and the acting all come together to create something that sticks with you long after you finish watching.
In short, The Untamed is one of those rare shows that just gets better with every watch. It’s perfect for fans of the books, anime, or anyone who appreciates incredible storytelling.
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This review may contain spoilers
Its one of the best drama I have ever watched, its just perfect top notchIn the begiining there is a confusion but when it goes in flashback u can relax and start a ride, Xiao zhanis a brilliant actor I will definitely follow him and watch his more work same with Wang yibo
I watched the drama and than went and read the book and must say We wuxian Charcter was not easy to portray but it has been develop an d acted so well that u cry with him an d laugh with him. I have already seen the whole series three tie planning to restart again.
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The Untamed Review
The Untamed is a rare gem in the sea of fantasy dramas—a live-action adaptation of Mo Dao Zu Shi (The Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation) that retains the heart, soul, and complexity of the original novel. While rooted in BL, the series transcends genre boundaries, offering an emotionally rich narrative about friendship, morality, loss, and redemption.Despite the limitations of censorship, the adaptation is remarkably faithful, preserving the novel’s spirit through nuanced storytelling and compelling character arcs. Xiao Zhan and Wang Yibo breathe life into Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji, delivering performances so emotionally resonant and perfectly matched that it’s hard to imagine anyone else in these roles.
The plot, though intricate and multi-layered, unfolds with precision—revealing deeper themes of justice, sin, and the moral ambiguity that defines human nature. More than just a fantasy epic, The Untamed is a philosophical exploration wrapped in hauntingly beautiful visuals, a mesmerizing soundtrack, and a story that lingers long after the credits roll.
This is a drama that doesn’t just entertain—it captivates, challenges, and stays with you.
Rating: 10/10
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The Untamed really deserves all the recognition it has earned.It was a beautiful journey with so many emotions and feeling be it love, sadness, crying, love, friendship and sacrifice. Each and every character was so beautifully portrayed by the cast, hats off to them and the whole Team of “The Untamed”.
Characters wise:
WWX: I love his character he is selfless, lovely, funny, mischievous and not controlled by stupid rules and regulations. Whatever he did for others wasn't to gaining any reputation or recognition but for him it’s a belief that he had to support the weak people for which he had taken many steps. I didn't understand how can he be blamed for the destruction of Jiang clan and Lotus Pier that’s not true, no matter what that Wen Ruohan was going to control all the clans with the help of Stygian Iron and his son was a mad guy who finds happiness by abusing others. In fact, if Madam Yu hadn’t used her Zidian on WWX, he could have helped them to deal with them and at- least they could have run away instead of getting themselves killed. He gave his golden core then gets badly beaten up by Wen Chao and after that they threw him in the Burial Mounds, here I was expecting LWJ to help WWX. After WWX returned from Burial Mounds LWJ was correct that he needs to control his temper bcoz he learned Demonic Cultivation and it will eventually effect his temper which I do understand after all that had happened with him but somewhere I was hoping he could take LWJ help in order to avoid any calamity in future and it happened a moment of his weakness was used as a strength by those wicked people around him.
Watching WWX suffer made me think his life was full of miseries and I m sure it wasn’t still bad, what was more heart-breaking is when his loved ones died and he was blamed by everyone. These blames must be like someone pierced his heart with 1000 of nails.
After his revival he changed in term of his temper which was really a sort of relief for me bcoz I don’t like him to be used by anyone and left him in despair.
LWJ: He is such an adorable character and moreover LWJ was a character who needs to portray each of his emotion using his eyes and body language. His visuals are mesmerizing and he really look awesome in white specially his headband<3. Many time I wished that instead of just supporting WWX he should also stand up against those stupid clan leaders who were blinded by stupid idiotic theory to kill everyone in the name of justice bcoz I know that when LWJ would speak he can clear out few things which can keep a strong base to help WWX but also the innocent people of Wen Clan.
For me there is a bit difference between supporting someone and standing up bcoz supporting a person is due to feelings but standing up is all about ur belief. When u love someone u r bound to trust them no matter what but when u stand up for something u only need right conscience not love.
Just like what Mianmian did in ep 27 she was literally bang on, I really loved how she supported WWX and then threw Jin Clan rob with belt and I was clapping for her. And I love how LWJ protected Demon subdue palace and even helped Yuan though he even got punished so badly for it. After Yanli it was only LWJ who had a place for WWX without any restrictions.
One of the best dialogue when LWJ was kneeling outside and he asked his Master that can i que u something, Tell me what's right and what's wrong, what's black and what's white. Truly there is no distinction between that it all depends on ur belief and understanding.
Wen Ning: His character was really the cutest character and adorable too. He was so innocent and yet suffered so much pain. I felt bad when after that incident with Jin Zixuan, WWX woke up and Wen Ning was sitting on his knees asking for forgiveness and WWX kicked him. WWX said himself that Wing Ning condition was partially fault too and he knew Weng Ning isn’t someone who can kill anyone specially if that person has something to do with WWX. Wen Ning helped him multiple times just bcoz WWX saved him once I guess it was more like he “Admired” WWX.
And when all those people Sacrificed their lives in order to hep WWX, I was crying like hell. They all went together in order to get punishment yet they were treated like animals and even displayed their bodies after killing them that’s so inhuman of them.
All the actor and actresses did an amazing job in bringing them to life bcoz of which we were able to connect to them in a better way and was able to feel all the emotions.
I became a fan of these guys Sean Xiao, Wang Yibo and Paul Yu: They acted so well not only by delivering good dialogues but including facial and body expression was a bang on, Totally love them <3 <3 <3
The sound track : My fav is "The Main Theme" Song, specially the flute part ...i m listening to it in repeat mode ...
So as per the show "The Untamed" means: Emotions be it in a good way or bad bay u can't always control them which is an imp factor in taking any decision, i guess. There are things which remains Untamed even if u want to Tame them.
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A well crafted take on the theme of good and evil.
To be honest, I actually watched TU a year ago, without reading the novel, just because it was a censored version of BL and it was very popular. But I couldn't get past the 25th episode, precisely because I didn't understand anything. I had no idea what the characters were doing, and adding to that, this was my first chinese xianxia drama.But a year later, I came across the manhua, and I started reading it thinking I would understand better, and again I was wrong. The manhua had mentioned a dozen times that the explanations are better in the novel, and I gave the novel a try.
And as for the novel, I was hooked on reading the first few chapters, because it had better explanations of the characters and the general elements of the MDC.
So, if you are confused watching the series, I highly recommend you to read the novel first.
( I read only read 2 volumes completely and wangzian scenes of the other 3 volumes, since I felt the timelines of the novel confusing and I was in a rush to complete due to my exams nearing)
Summing up, reading to the novel helped me know the characters, but apart from that I didn't know anything about the major events taking place in the story and I watched them in TU for the first time.
Coming to the drama, what makes it a worthy watch is the story and the compelling acting.
I will first talk about the acting.
ACTING
Both Xiao zhan and Wang yibo have done a tremendous job in bringing the characters to life. Their acting makes us remember their characters, forever. And apart from the leads, I think all other supporting characters also did a great job in portraying their characters, and no character in this story is superficial, they are defined by their actions, intentions and motives.
PRODUCTION
The direction is perfect, but personally the production was mediocre in some scenes. Apart from those few scenes, all other scenes had beautiful cinematography and the costumes and set designs seemed well planned ( especially the interiors of the clans bases).
STORY
The story was perfect because it conveyed the notions of good and evil perfectly to the audience. What I learnt through this drama are two things -
1. Nothing in this world can be labelled as completely good or evil, and that intentions of the doer is what is important.
2. Next, a third person can judge our choices as right or wrong very easily, but unless and untill you are in the circumstance, you cannot understand why a particular decision was made unless you understand that person. A decision cannot be made purely because it is good or bad, but there are many factors affecting it - the situation, the feeling and personal ethics and opinions of the person.
The drama had conveyed these aspects so perfectly that I was thinking about this a whole day after watching the nevernight finale episode.
And next coming to wangzian.
How fortunate is to be loved like how Lan zhan loved Wei ying ! A beautiful portrayal of love at it's most purest form. I badly manifest a love like theirs.
OST
The music perfectly complimented and elevated the emotions of the characters.
I am forever in love with wuji and wangzian.
I know I am a little biased, but I never knew I would love TU so much before I started it (Cuz when I watched it last year without context, I didn't like TU and it seemed a waste of time).
And I came to know that there are many changes in the novel and the adapted form, so I am planning to read the novel completely once again Because I am interested in how the book conveys these same themes.
I will admit, there are a lot of shortcomings in the drama, but those can be overlooked for the sake of the impact the story and characters had on me.
Rewatch value - I will rewatch TU in the future as I am busy with exams for now.
If you are debating whether to watch or not, I would definitely recommend you to read the novel first ( atleast 2 volumes, as most of the characters are introduced in it, and the drama doesn't explain the background of the supporting characters, which is crucial to the story), and then watch the untamed.
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Why it's a 10
So I finally figured out what makes this so good for me.This is a perfect exploration of the nature of good and evil. It subverts expectations by its predecessors by actually giving a damn about its subject matter. It challenges us to think critically about what is good, what is evil, and how these things are defined. I'm trying to not add spoilers so I'm just gonna chill instead of ranting too far. Who knows, maybe I'll come back and have a spoilery rant-type review later. But for now, I just want to say if you love power struggles, writers that challenge their readers, and a story that doesn't shove morality into your face but still makes you think about it, then this is the show for you.
Now, yes the source material is problematic. I think it is important to address that. Is the story/show perfect? Not exactly, but it's a 10 for me just because of how much heart went into this struggle.
Edit 9/20/2021: I was thinking about this drama again and I just NEEDED to further analyze why this is so good.
I will never get over The Untamed. It almost makes me want to write an essay on it. Like the more I think about the story, the more I'm like "wow they did that. they really did that." Like Wei Wuxian is such an important representation of fighting systems of oppression and being true to oneself. And Lan Wangji is so precious as someone who both wants to believe in the system he comes from, and realizing that justice is something that must always be critiqued and not simply accepted by sources of authority. Jiang Chen is important because he helps us understand some of the reasons why people accept bad things even when they mean to do good. And Guang Yao's brutal end and his unexpected humanity reminds us that even evil has love and affection. It forces us to question morality and the systems we participate in, while also addressing the complexity of life and the people in it. Ahhhhh and now I'm crying WHY AM I CRYING AUGHHHH THIS STORYYYYYYY
And Guang Yao's humanity is also important, because it supports the thesis of the show. Good and evil is something we must question, and blindly supporting something as good or evil can result in evil itself. By showing humanity in Guang Yao, it forces us to realize that he also contained good traits, that of loyalty, protection, friendship, and reminds us that simply defining him as evil can create its own problems. Just as Guang Yao convinced everyone to look at the Wen Clan as evil for his own gain, viewing Guang Yao as wholly evil is an inviation for others to take advantage of evil for evil purposes. Instead of painting Guang Yao as wholly evil, we are forced to find what parts of him are evil. And even then, we must question whether actions themselves are evil, just as Wei Wuxian does when he uses taboo magic to save others, a kind of magic wildly considered evil.
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