The Untamed

Captivating and Engaging!!

I’m not usually one for subtitles, but for The Untamed, I gladly made an exception. And I’m so glad I did. This was one of the best movies I’ve seen, delivering a captivating, engaging, and easy-to-follow storyline.

The film’s true magic lies in its characters, masterfully brought to life by Xiao Zhan and Wang Yibo. Their performances were nothing short of mesmerizing, making it impossible not to fall in love with both their characters and them as actors. The emotional depth they brought to their roles made certain scenes gut-wrenching—you’ll need to brace yourself for moments that will have you crying, screaming, and clutching your heart.

I sincerely hope for a sequel. A continuation of this story would be a dream come true, allowing us to delve even further into the world and relationships that made this film so unforgettable. And wouldn’t it be amazing to see The Untamed adapted into an English-language version? It would introduce this masterpiece to an even wider audience.

Whether you’re a fantasy, drama, or beautifully crafted storytelling fan, The Untamed is a must-watch.

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The Must-See Wuxia avec Xiao Zhan ❤❤❤ et Wang Yi Bo ❤❤❤

I hesitated for a long time to watch this drama, yet highly recommended, because I'm not a BL fan. But I ended up immersing myself in it and I do not regret this choice. It really is The Must-See Wuxia with Xiao Zhan ❤❤❤ and Wang Yi Bo ❤❤❤.

PLOT:
Great epic (50 episodes) of struggle between Good and Evil (sects of immortals / martial arts + cable fights of all kinds).
Meeting, alliance and super bromance between Wei WuXian (from a spiritual sect - big family with powers & rules) and Lan Zhan (from the sect of Lightbearers, very strict more than 3000 rules:). They investigate strange events, fight together against evils & ghost puppets, try to thwart the plans of several villains who want Yin Metal & the Tiger seal to have absolute power.

PROS:
+ no explicit BL (like the novel) but a palpable chemistry in the CL, with adorable Xiao Zhan, with a cute smile, as mischievous and mischievous Wei Wuxian.
+ Super OST, epic, perfectly adapted to the emotions (especially the duet of the ending song with Xiao Zhang and Yi Bo)
+ Excellent actors, all of them, even the most annoying ones (whom we hate with all our hearts :)
+ Excellent special effects
+ Very successful fight scenes
+ costumes & make-up at the Top
+ beautiful scenery & landscapes

CONS:
- Complex story & characters (a bit hard to get into).

=> MASTERPIECE, A must see for the quality of the cinematography, but especially for the 2 TOP leads!!
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J'ai longtemps hésité à regarder ce drama, pourtant chaudement recommandé, parce que je ne suis pas fan de BL. Mais j'ai fini par m'y plonger et je ne regrette pas ce choix. C'est vraiment The Must-See Wuxia avec Xiao Zhan ❤❤❤ et Wang Yi Bo ❤❤❤.

PLOT:
Grande épopée (50 épisodes) de lutte entre le Bien et le Mal (sectes d'immortels / arts martiaux + fight câblés en tous genres).
Rencontre, alliance et super bromance entre Wei WuXian (issu d'une secte de spirituels - grande famille avec pouvoirs & règles) et Lan Zhan (de la secte des porteurs de Lumière, très stricte + de 3000 règles :). Ils enquêtent sur des évènements étranges, se battent ensemble contre les evils & les marionnettes fantômes, essaient de déjouer les plans des evils qui veulent le Yin Metal & le sceau du Tigre pour avoir le pouvoir absolu.
CONS:
+ pas de BL explicite (like the novel) mais une alchimie palpable dans le CL, avec Xiao Zhan adorable, au sourire craquant, en Wei Wuxian malicieux et espiègle.
+ Super OST, épiques, parfaiement adaptés aux émotions (notamment le duo de la ending song avec Xiao Zhang et Yi Bo)
+ Excellents acteurs, tous, même les plus agaçants (que l'on déteste de tout coeur :)
+ Excellents effets spéciaux
+ Scènes de fight très réussies
+ costumes & make-up au Top
+ magnifiques décors & paysages

CONS:
- Histoire & personnages complexes (1 peu dur de rentrer dedans).

=> MASTERPIECE, A ne pas rater pour la qualité de la cinématographie, mais surtout pour les 2 leads TOP !!

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I actually found this drama while lurking in an SVSSS forum. I read someone comment about a live action of MXTX work. Since I like SVSSS, I checked out The Untamed without any background info or expectations. Well color me surprised, I got totally hooked after a few episodes.

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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Worth my time

When I first started watching 'The untamed' (陈情令), I knew it was based on the hugely popular Chinese danmei novel 魔道祖师 (Mo Dao Zu Shi), also known as 'The grandmaster of demon cultivation' by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. As much as I adored the show, I can’t help feeling slightly disappointed. Because at its heart, this is a love story, but the drama, due to censorship, never fully lets that love blossom onscreen. Instead, it dances around it with lingering glances, shared silences, and unspoken devotion. It’s beautiful but also a little heartbreaking, not because of what happens, but because of what’s missing. 'The untamed' had an uphill battle from the start. Due to China’s censorship laws. So instead of presenting Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji as romantic partners, the show rebrands them as “soulmates” or “best friends,” and leans heavily on subtext. But here’s the surprising part, despite all the restrictions, 'The untamed' manages to remain shockingly faithful to the heart of the story. Both versions follow the same dual timeline structure. The “present” story of Wei Wuxian’s resurrection and investigation, and the “past” story of his rise and fall. Major events, like the Sunshot Campaign, the burial mounds, the Yi City arc, and the final confrontation, are intact. Wei Wuxian remains his charming, sarcastic, brilliant self, torn between doing what's right and being punished for it. Lan Wangji is still the stoic, rule-bound cultivator who slowly reveals his hidden passion and unwavering loyalty. Even secondary characters like Jiang Cheng, Wen Ning, Lan Xichen, and Jin Guangyao are faithfully adapted. At its heart, both the novel and drama explore freedom vs. tradition, personal morality vs. public perception, and the dangers of blind loyalty to rules. Wei Wuxian constantly challenges the status quo, while Lan Wangji learns to quietly rebel against it. Even with the censorship, 'The untamed' manages to capture the emotional intensity of Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji’s relationship. Every shared glance, every moment of silent understanding, every time one steps in front of danger for the other. It’s clear what they mean to each other. And that’s a testament to the actors’ performances, especially Xiao Zhan and Wang Yibo, who convey a deep, believable bond without ever saying “I love you.” The biggest difference is that they don’t get together in the drama. In the novel, they are canonically in love. Lan Wangji confesses. They share kisses, cuddles, and a life together. In fact, the extras show them raising Lan Sizhui as a family. Their relationship is not just hinted at; it’s central. But in the drama, it's all subtext. No romantic confession. No kiss. No “Wei Ying” spoken in a whisper. No post-canon domesticity. The most intimate moments, like the forehead ribbon moment (symbolising intimacy), are completely removed. The drunken confession, where Lan Wangji spills his heart while drunk, is toned down. The ending, in the drama, is more open-ended. In the novel, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji walk off together into their future. For viewers who were emotionally invested in their love story (myself included), it’s frustrating. The story builds and builds, only to leave us at the end with ambiguity. They're clearly more than friends, but the show never says it. It’s not that they needed to kiss to prove their love. But a single moment of clarity, a word, a gesture, a future would have made all the difference. In the novel, Lan Wangji is much more expressive—especially in internal monologues or moments of vulnerability. We see his jealousy, his devotion, his pain. In the drama, he’s portrayed more stoically, and we miss out on some of those emotional depths unless we read between the lines. Despite my disappointment, I can’t deny that 'The untamed' is still an incredible show. It brings the world of Mo Dao Zu Shi to life with beautiful cinematography, haunting music, excellent casting, and strong emotional storytelling. Xiao Zhan and Wang Yibo carry the show with grace and subtlety. Their performances manage to convey a love that’s deeper than words, even if it’s never spoken aloud. And the show deserves praise for doing as much as it did under heavy restrictions. 'The untamed' is a masterclass in adaptation under constraint. It captures the spirit and soul of *Mo Dao Zu Shi, even if it can't show the romance in full. It’s beautiful, tragic, emotional, and memorable.

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The Untamed had everything I wanted in a drama and more that I didn't even know I wanted. I had initially put off watching the show because I had a number of other dramas I was trying to finish. However, I decided to check out one episode just to see if I should put it in my watch list and I got hooked! This drama led me to read the novel and then watch the donghua, read the manhua, and listen to the audio drama. The characters and the story were all sooooo good that I still feel like I can't get enough of them now that I've completed the series.

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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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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