The Longest Promise

A less stupid version of the “Journey of Chong Zi”

Using my personal rating system of "loved," "liked," "meh," & "nah," this is a "liked"/“meh”.

The deets:
Two preteens have a destined encounter that results in the preteen version of our ML (a crown prince) being framed for murder. He is smuggled out of the palace by his would-be baby daddy to go be a novice in a pugilistic sect instead. Our preteen FL, devastated that she was the cause of the crown prince being accused of murder, sends a prayer to the heavens that he will rest in peace which inexplicably causes a curse to be placed on our ML (wtf!?). The curse will not come to pass if he does not meet with her again before his 18th birthday. But, of course, just before he turns 18, she finds her way to his isolated valley within the sect’s territory. Lots and lots of hijinks ensue…

What I liked:
Getting to see Alen Fang in another drama. Though I’d like to see him as an ML for once instead of the eternally doomed SML (always the bridesmaid, never the bride…). I liked that many of the male leads were easy to look at (an not one of them had the stupid thin and long hair pieces in front of their face). I liked Zhu Yan’s character. At first, I wasn’t sure, but she grew on me. I liked that the younger prince got together with his love despite everyone’s best attempts to keep them apart. I like that the General finally got his girl in the end and she (Bai Xue Lu) turned out to be a decent person in the end (I wonder how tall that actress is?). I liked that this was a xuanyuan/wuxia/xianxia because I’m not into historical reality (much less inaccurate history because that, in many ways, is worse by ‘whitewashing’ history; though if I’m going to watch a xuanyuan with Xiao Zhan, can we please just have a season 2 of DouLuo Continent?). I liked that there were distinct sets and costumes as you went to the different ‘kingdoms’ across the land.

What I disliked:
I totally could have done without the would-be baby daddy character (the sect leader [seriously is there some sort of law in China that Han Dong must be cast in at least 50% of active productions at all times!? That dude is in like every other drama out there]). He didn’t know wtf he wanted and kept messing around with the ML’s head in some bizarre effort to get revenge for ML’s mother (his lost love) and then gave up and went and did it himself. He knew that ML wanted to live like a monk but decided to foist a trifling girl (Bai Xue Lu) upon him, hoping that she would somehow inspire enough feelings in him for a cause the ML had no interest in taking up that he would be able to survive an ordeal that literally no other sect member had ever survived before. When ML displayed interest in another woman, at first Sect Leader tried to separate them and hook him back up with the trifling girl. Then he gives up on that and decides that our FL will do. But then as soon as the ML develops real feelings for our FL, Sect Leader decides that its time for our trifling girl to come back upon the scene and take him back. *sigh *
I didn’t like that the trifling girl’s only goal in life seemed to make a powerful marriage. The way her character was written, she was intelligent enough and strong enough not to need a man to get her what she wanted—yet they forced her into the role of b@t$*** crazy jealous woman and made her spend 2/3rds of the drama going after dudes she didn’t like and ignoring the one she did.
Minor point of dislike: If you didn’t know what “shifu” meant, you will by the end of the drama, since its every third word that Zhu Yan says.

Final thoughts:
I stand by the title of this review: If you were disappointed by Journey of Chong Zi and/or found Journey of Flower too much of a case study in toxic relationships, I recommend this one instead. It’s basically the same idea but involves a lot less yelling at the screen.

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A Very Pictureesque Fantasy Drama

This is the 2nd Fantasy cdrama that i've managed to finish, but also the 4th fantasy cdrama that i've looked into, and god! So far, this has the cleanest CGI. It's not perfect like the west does, but it's getting there.

What really blew me away in the beginning was the sets were very very beautiful, especially when they were in the mountains or like the illusionary places, it's very picturesque looking, like you could screenshot any scene that involved with those sets and I would legit print it and hang it on my wall, that's how good the sets are. They're probably using the latest tech, where you could film in the actual set and have the CGI set to move along with the camera. That's probably why it's very clean when the characters are in those places. Not only that, the lighting is also on point, it adds so much to the aesthetic of the backgrounds. When it comes to the magic powers, the CGI although, is not perfect, it's very jank at times, but it's still very clean. And you add the graceful fighting choreographies, like you wouldn't even mind the janky magic effects because the fighting scenes are very engrossing. One thing that disappoints me at times is that some of the fight scenes are very short, if not, sometimes it's very lacking, like it's being held back by the lack of talent to fully realize the vision or maybe the budget, but that's just a minor complaint in my opinion. One thing that felt scuffed in the CGI department is the creatures in this drama. For example, the divine bird is very jank, and in some scenes, it's not even HD. It gets pixelated at times. The cgi creatures are great, but it doesn't really blend in most of the time, aside from God of Dragon, like my god when he first showed up, it was great that i think most of the budget for the cgi creatures went into him. So yeah, there are janky moments in the CGI department, but again, it's very very clean for the most part. It doesn't deteriorate your viewing experience.

The story i think it's very slog in the beginning, like the first 10-15 or so episodes because they have to establish the characters and explain the magic system and the world in the drama, but once you get past that and make it to where episode 1 left off, that story will start picking up its pace and gets very good as you progress. Though i think aside from the romance aspect and the family politics that is going on, anything else wasn't really the focus in this series. And that's what sucks because even though i wasn't really into the politics, nor the family drama, i still wanted them to keep showing the boring parts just them talking and explaining everything about the world of this drama because it's interesting. But around the 2nd half, i gave up cuz the story is already so far that i doubt they would even bother explaining the intricacies. I think the story for me is at its best when it's just the romance or the dynamics between the mains, other than that is like a snooze fest, like i would sometimes bump up the play speed to 1.25 or 1.5, cuz again, for me they didn't really go all in on explaining the world that much so that's why i think i couldn't really care that much, aside from the romance aspect. And even though I find the romance as the best part of this show, it's not really perfect. I think in the beginning you would find it annoying, but because of the character developments and the series of challenges that went through, it got really good over time. I even find it really cute for the most part.

Now, the characters in this drama, i think they are all well-written. Each has their own goals and reasonings to keep pushing. As you spend more time with these characters, you get to understand why they are the characters the way they are. And i liked that, especially in the later parts when situations got complicated and the stakes were high. It shows that these characters have been put a lot of thought into. Even the interaction between these characters is such a delight, especially around the later parts after all the boring build-up you get to appreciate the characters when it is just silent and it's just them talking.

Alright, enough with praises. Now that i'm remembering it as i'm writing this review, i think the huoto tribe or that arc was such a filler for me, now that i'm thinking about it. like they only got a few episodes or screentime and then most of the higher ups killed themselves lmao xD Aside from zhu yan getting married off to the huotu prince and discovering the location of the Sea Emperor, for me, i think that part of the show didn't really leave such an impact on me. I think that is where i thought "Man! i really wanted them to expand on this tribe, because this is such a unique looking along with the crimson clan" but nope, that part felt flat for me.

The traveling in this drama is almost non existant or even the time passing because they wouldn't even spend that much time on the traveling scenes or bother showing the time passing, like couldn't they've at least put a caption 1 day later or 1 week later, like they are really strict on the screentime huh? You could have a character getting heavily injured that would take weeks or months of rest and then instantly cut to the next scene where he/she is already recovered without even telling the audience, like what?!?!

Around the later parts near the end, it started getting fast-paced, like okay there are only 4 episodes left... but they're still building up this ominous enemy that they've been hinting at since the beginning, so what are they gonna do? Then things started happening for the sake of convenience, but still props to them for at least putting up an effort for trying to explain shit in like few lines, for it to make sense.

And the show ended up with a bang, like they really went all in on that last episode, holy hell! Then landed its own two feet with a safe open ending. Watching this drama gave me hope that good fantasy cdrama does exist out there if you just keep looking. I'm glad my girl Ren Min got the FL role in this show, like i can't imagine any other actress playing Zhu Yan. At first, i see her as Ren Min, but slowly she started becoming one with the character that she was playing, so good job. I don't know if it's dubbed or not, but my girl has two voices here. I don't know why i didn't notice it immediately, but Zhu Yan was definitely not Ren Min's voice UNTIL, she appeared as yaoyi and heard her speak as a mature woman, like "Hellooo?!?!!! excuse?!?!! is this really Ren Min?!! Why does it sound so attractive?!?". So i went back to her other works and compared them and yep i think she's either using a different voice here like what zhao lusi did in 'Hidden Love' or it's dubbed.

So yeah, I would recommend this drama, if you can sit through the slow burn early part, then you'll be in for a ride.

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Beautiful yet painful story of Shi Ying!!

The story tells us a painful love story of a master and disciple, Shi Ying and Zhu Yan. Shi Ying, a banished prince from Kongsang kingdom, accidentally meets Zhu Yan, princess of the Crimson clan, before he turns 18,and hence starts a painful yet fated love story with a danger looming to destroy the world.
The visuals were excellent. The special effects and the scenery steal the show. Each and every frame is very spectacular and appealing to the eyes .
The action scenes and costumes were good.
The plot had enough twists and turns, as expexted of a xiania drama.Though there were few scenes where I felt a bit boring, but still the story kept me hooked, since I like watching xianxia dramas.
All the actors did an excellent job. As usual, Xiao Zhan as Shi Ying, is the perfect immortal with an elegant demeanor, so far I have seen in all the immortal dramas. I am really amazed by the different emotions, expressions, moods, pain, love, care, Xiao Zhan, could portray . His body language is very pleasant yet elegant and the depth of emotions he portrays through his eyes, is 💯.His costumes match his attitude. Shi Ying, I will definitely miss you and as I already said, Xiao Zhan never fails in his performance.
Ren Min as Zhu yan and Alan Fang as Zhi Yuan are very good. I also liked Marcus Li as Chong Mong, the divine bird.
Finally, the longest promise takes you on a ride of emotions struggling to make their way through evil schemes and bring justice to the world. But what pained me the most was the character of Shi Ying who never got what he deserved, after going through all the pain and suffering.
A MUST WATCH drama!! Shi Ying, you will be missed!!

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UGH

I regret watching this because of the heart ache. What was the point of reviving him just for him to die again? The ending is whack and unnecessarily heartbreaking.

Some people say this is an open ending. In no way this is an open ending. It's 100% tragic ending hence why I regret watching it. People are missing it when he said "When the flower blooms is when I visit you." at the end, the flower blooms meaning he is only visiting her. He is NOT alive. He can't be alive because they sealed the god of destruction in Shi Ying's body. In no way he would be alive because god of destruction would come back and there would be no point. All in all, writing sucks, he died. I hate the ending.

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Literally a LONGEST promise!

Ok this is drama really loved up to its name. The LONGEST promise ever. The drama was crazy long and boring to me. I started watching this for XZ as most did. But I regretted starting it from 3rd episode on and I'm not someone to leave series half way. So i forced myself to watch the rest. Thankfully I found a new obsession. Alan Feng. He was the sole reason why I watched the rest. And they did him very dirty in the end. The merfork never had a day in the series where he was happy.

Anyway the movie was a slow burn until 35th episode. I wish the story was as eventful from the beginning but they cramped up everything that was supposed to be spanned out over 40 episodes in the last 5 episodes. I was annoyed at the FL for her hyperactive and intrusive nature where she is disturbing the ML and has her nose in everyone's business from the beginning. But her character became more tolerable finally when she had a purpose other than chase after her master.

The costumes and some of the CGIs were very nice to watch. But in some parts of the story it was very obvious that it was greenscreen. It kinda gave me an ick. Also what's up with the subplots and characters popping up at random part of the story like the ice clan, Ruyi and Sumo. I felt like the story line was all over the place and was not consistent for most characters.

Again all the characters went through all these for no one to end up happy. It was emotionally taxing to watch this drama and I won't recommend this to anyone.

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Genuine Love can be obtained by discarding ones desire & ambition | Lots of unused plot devices!

The 2nd ML (Zhi Yuan) is the embodiment of this story's title "The Longest Promise"—he waited 200 years to meet his eternal love only to be told that Zhu Yan wasn't actually the reincarnation of Yao Yi. Tragic!!

I want to officially start my reaction by stating that although this drama is not as perfect and flawless as what the other reviews on this site states, I would still want to say that it is still fine on its own. The narrative wasn't as complicated and complex unlike some Xianxia dramas out there, however, I still think that they lack a lot when it comes to story telling. This drama has many plot holes, incomplete explanation of events and a handful of unused characters and story elements that could have contributed a lot to the entire story if they were utilized correctly and efficiently.

In addition, I wanna say that they don't know how to use the HYPE at all. There are a lot of impactful scenes that has gone to complete waste simply because the Director didn't use it wisely and intelligently enough. The video editing team was also underwhelming when it comes to connecting related scenes and events to make it look more emotional and convincing. Well, I must say that It still all lies on the director since I'm sure even the editors are following his lead and instructions.

Also, why do I feel like I'm watching a contemporary cliché drama during the last 15 episodes of the story? and their only difference is that they're wearing traditional Chinese costumes. Hahahaha!

Moving on, let me go ahead and discuss some of my favorite elements of this story.

First is most probably the contemplating attitude of some of the main group of characters. It shows how bad people, weren't actually deep-rooted bad, it's just that the people around them treated them terribly and differently that's why they learned and adapted to protect themselves from such people and circumstances—that it's only their defense mechanism for a chance of survival.

This drama also shows some great developments from its characters and I think it is one of the positive sides of this production. I feel like they never intended on making the bad people really bad so they gave them a redemption path which is a really healthy take for a story. I just love that the main characters didn't even care about the throne and power; and at the end, were able to find their own genuine happiness by letting go of their worldly desires and possessions.

Lastly, the CGI of this drama is really good specially the first few episodes. However, there are also times when you will get lost because of their magic powers, its effects and how it is visualized. I can't even believe that the most powerful spell was animated like it was just some normal type attacks. I was left baffled and underwhelmed during those scenes.

P.S. I waited and waited for my most anticipated scene which is to see Xiao Zhan dying out of jealousy but it never came! damn! I'm so sad... Hahahaha!!

Story - 9.0, I love that the imperial struggle wasn't the focus of this drama because I'm just so tired of it and I'm also glad that the initially introduced bad characters were given a redemption path to take. One thing that truly disappoints me is the wasted plot devices that could have made this drama even better if they were only used properly and efficiently. Let me also mention the rushed and terrible way they chose to conclude the story. Like... HUH? What`s that bullshit?

Acting/Cast - 10, I'm satisfied with the acting and was never bothered by anyone all throughout. Maybe because I already categorized this as an Idol Xianxia drama and it made me stop scrutinizing their acting that much. I'm also thrilled with the artists of this production. I admit that I was indifferent towards Ren Min at first but as the dramas goes on, I learned to love her too.

Music - 9.0, There is nothing bad about it in all honesty. I already expected it to be all melodic, full of humming, heavenly sounding and it did just what I expected it to be.

Rewatch Value - 8.5, This drama is fine. But I don't think I will ever watch it again. I just feel like there are lots of dramas out there who deserves my time and attention more.

Overall - 9.0, the drama's good. It's that the director wasn't able to fully squeeze out the beauty and capability of the story. Could have been better with a different director and team I would say. Nonetheless, I was never bored of watching it and I genuinely love the artists of this production.

IF you find my review helpful please let me know.

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Lame!!!

Finally! It took 9 months to finish this series. Almost going to drop it. I had a great hope last year when I start, first is because of Xiao Zhan and the good ratings (back then).
40 episodes is way too much! And the female lead, bad selection to give this role to this actress!
The story line is all over the places, not sure what is the focus of this series? Is it love? Is it the war between Kong San and Melfork? Is it the long waiting time for the sea emperor? Is it about who get the throne? No focus at all!
in the beginning it seems like it is about Shi Ying return to get back the throne, but shift to Zhu Yan the stubborn girl.
I never saw this actress playing Zhu Yan before, so my opinion on her is solely according to her acting in this drama.
1. This Zhu yan character is really stupid and far beyond like. When the Sumo real sea emperor said : I want revenge, can she said that revenge is not good instead of teaching a stupid magic to send a "bird" to his mother??
Then when Sumo suddenly "sick" is this Zhu Yan so unknowledgeable to even don't know anything at all?? she think bring this to a normal doctor will help?
2. The actress acting is really terrible, especially episode 1 to 25. When she act happy, the smile ( the mouth, lips stretch like being forced) very unnatural and doesn't seems like happy at all. And this is happen many may times
When she cried, there's no tears at all. When she "act" with a wah sound her eyes is not "wah" she tried with the fake open happy mouth but it failed terribly.
When she "fight" every time need to spread her 2 hands whenever go down or do some magic action?
She always use a stuntman in every fighting (only rolling the body, not even falling down).
And her face so big, not suitable for the outfit?
This actress suitable for maybe police roles, her dub voice so sweet, but it does not suit her at all.
The actress playing Xue Lu is a better choice for Zhu Yan role.

So many unnecessary misunderstanding. This Zhu Yan isn't she always have big mouth and said what she think and feel??? Why when she heard her master want to leave priesthood she can't just ask him?? She suddenly have a change of character after the 30 episodes of very annoying character that worth a slap.
All the stories will not happen if this Zhu Yan did not do her stupidity since she was a kid until she is grow up.

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a very impressive drama

I can't go into specifics, but Zhu yan's character is a bit annoying, she should have confessed her love to Shiying from the start instead of admitting that she loves a Yuan.besides that shiying's character is also quite annoying, why would someone be so stupid for love? but sadly I was touched by shiying and Zhu yan's love story🥰.



























































































































I hope there is a special episode to see shiying and Zhu yan happy together

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avoid this drama

Caught this drama on Netflix a couple of months ago. Noticed all of the 10/10 ratings people were giving this drama so had to set the record straight. I am guessing it was a bunch of AI chatbots hired by the studio that are giving this drama high ratings.

I actually watched up to episode 18 of this drama but it was so boring and the story so bad that I started fast forwarding and skipping episodes just to get through this awful drivel. It looked like the producers spent some money on this drama since the CGI and costumes were of excellent quality, but wow was the plot bad. As others have pointed out, the female lead was so whiny and constantly pining for her master that she was annoying to watch. Even Xiao Zhan who I have enjoyed in other dramas, was annoying to watch in this one.

Gave this drama a 2/10 solely for the production quality and CGI which were good, everything else about this drama was bad though. Even noticed this drama showed up on some "worst dramas of 2023" lists on Youtube which I tend to agree with. Avoid this drama, there is much better stuff out there to watch.

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Xiao Zhan Shines Bright in "The Longest Promise"

"The Longest Promise" starring Xiao Zhan is an absolute triumph that showcases the actor's exceptional talent and versatility. With its beautifully crafted narrative and powerful performances, this drama is a mesmerizing journey that will leave audiences deeply moved and emotionally invested.

Xiao Zhan's portrayal of the lead character is nothing short of extraordinary. He effortlessly breathes life into the complex role, capturing the essence of Michael's journey through time and love with finesse. His expressive eyes convey a multitude of emotions, effortlessly drawing viewers into the depths of his character's soul. From moments of pure joy to heart-wrenching sorrow, Xiao Zhan's performance is a masterclass in emotive acting.

The chemistry between Xiao Zhan and his co-star is undeniable, adding an enchanting layer to the love story at the heart of "The Longest Promise." Their on-screen connection radiates with authenticity, making the audience root for their love to conquer all obstacles. Xiao Zhan's ability to create such captivating chemistry showcases his prowess as an actor who can establish profound connections with his fellow cast members.

Beyond Xiao Zhan's exceptional performance, "The Longest Promise" boasts a compelling plotline that effortlessly weaves together romance, fantasy, and mystery.

Visually, the drama is a treat for the eyes. The picturesque cinematography perfectly complements the enchanting story, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that enhances the emotional impact of the scenes. The attention to detail in the set design and costumes further adds to the authenticity of the different time periods portrayed.

While "The Longest Promise" delivers an enthralling and heartfelt experience, there are a few moments where the pacing could have been tightened to maintain the drama's momentum. However, Xiao Zhan's magnetic presence consistently keeps the narrative engaging, and any minor pacing issues are quickly overshadowed by his commanding performance.

In conclusion, "The Longest Promise" is an outstanding drama that cements Xiao Zhan's status as a versatile and accomplished actor. This drama is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a compelling story, breathtaking performances, and a touch of enchantment in their entertainment. Xiao Zhan's brilliance shines bright in this unforgettable tale of love, destiny, and the longest promises that endure through time.

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Aesthetic

You want to see a drama with no overly done plot
Rubbish cakes of makeup
You should watch this
Plot is interesting with some mystery and what will happen next
Acting : it’s the major strength of the drama acting is brilliant from everyone and specially Xiaozhan has once again proved that why he is the best actor around his body language , lifting of eyebrow sly smile, tilting head smirks are all on point he really knows how to express with his eyes , his dialogues delivery is brilliant
Renmin was new when this was shoot but her
acting is v smooth she express well
All side character are brilliant
Ost is haunting and love it too
I watched on We Tv and I think I will watch again on Netflix
Good work by the team

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