The Legend of Shen Li

Excelled in every aspect

From the plot, the acting, the cast, the production, the CGI, the action sequences, the comedy, the romance and the OST have all been top notch.

I consumed this drama so quickly, it was hard waiting for more episodes to come. It is ideal to binge watch because you can't stop once you start watching.

I enjoyed the strong FL and mature depiction of affection between the two leads. But romance is more subtle and the story deals more with the responsibility these two characters carry. It had a strong start and I don't believe any point of the plot did I find the story boring. There are some interesting plot twists so avoid spoilers. Some of the comedy towards the end was most enjoyable. The action sequences paired with the OST is thrilling. The CGI is quite beautiful in those moments as well.

I enjoyed most of the secondary characters as well especially a female character towards the end - lady in red. But Shen Li definitely is the show stealer and it is nice to see a female given such a strong role.

I happened to watch this drama by chance and I'm glad I started it. Will definitely be recommending to others as well.

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Best drama I've ever watched, definately worth your time!!

This drama has literally been my top 1 cdrama ever since I started watching it for so many reasons, I love how both main leads are actually powerful and independent characters rather than one of them (mostly the fl) being a weak frail character that relies on the other person. This cdrama has got me in tears in so many scenes, both good and bad ones (especially when Mofang died and Feng Lai sacrificed himself). Honestly this is my first time watching Zhao Liying's drama and second time watching Lin Gengxin's drama but I was very still surprised and impressed at how good the visuals and acting skills are with both main leads. I know that they have collaborated before in Princess Agents (which I haven't watched yet) but honestly I'm still hoping that they can get more dramas together cause this pairing is just so perfect! Also another reason on why this drama is my top 1 is also because of the ending to it, in most Xianxia dramas there would be either a sad ending, open ending or a slightly happy ending but in The Legend of Shen Li it is just a perfect happy ending, they reunite together again and have about an episode and a half together, and the fact that Xing Zhi asked Shen Li to marry him was super cute!! But the cutest scene for me was when Shen Li revealed that she was pregnant right afterwards, Xing Zhi's expression was absolutely priceless.
Honestly, I do wish that we got to see their wedding and their child but that was okay for me as this was the best ending that I've ever scene in a cdrama so I was still happy with it.
And now with the drama ending I feel like there's a empty hole in my heart cause of how good this drama was and also because of how quickly it's ended already. Goodbye 与风行 and we hope to see this cute pair collaborate in another drama soon!

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The Romance of CluckCluck and Sick Fella

One of the fastest & easiest 10/10 I ever gve a Xianxia or even CDrama, EVERYTHING is PERFECT 👌

The casting: absolutely adore ML & FL, XingZhi isn't just handsome, I think he ascended beyond that, he's like old wine that has depth of flavor, his charisma is fire 🔥, I fell in love with ZLY in PA, my girl got the strong female lead act down pat, she's got the mannerisms to make you believe she is THEE Big Boss around, I've followed her to Legend of Fei & MingLan and she's never disappointed me once, this role was made for her.

The humor is on another level, it's not slapstick or in your face, it's so subtly and artfully done you'll catch yourself laughing before you realize it

The OST, the CGI omg I love Cluck Cluck that was the most hillarious arc I've ever had in any cdrama, funny thing is the 🐔 actually looks abit like ZLY herself 😅, too cute.

All side characters were interesting but never taking too much screen time. There were no annoying or frustrating tropes, no overacting either.

I love everything, I mean EVERYTHING about this show, I never watched on 2x speed or dropped entirely, I was too interested in what was happening to miss a beat.

I wonder when next I'll get something like this again, for me some shows just click, and this was one of them.

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I like the effects and all the actors & actress has done a very good job. Especially the FL & ML, they are so funny and cute too. At first i thought is just a normal drama, but once i start the 1st 2 episode, I could not stop already, but let me tell you, the wait was absolutely worth it! It not only met but exceeded all expectations.
The FL is so feisty and at the same time she is also delicate. I love it when she tries to control her feelings towards ML. She was mistaken for a chicken, and leads the market to be in a mess, she then is rescued and healed by the ML. Fed and washing part is also funny. Cluck cluck that is what the ML called her.
As for the ML he is soft and slow, but in fact he is very powerful. He just takes all the time he has in the world to do things. The way he treats the FL is so delicate, like she is going to break anytime. Although he lies to her, but all are for her own good. He understands her well enough to give her space for her recovery.
Overall the drama is superb.

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An excellent wu xia drama after 10 miles peach blossoms.

I'm an avid Chinese drama fan especially wu xia and xin xia genre. After lost you forever season one, I asked myself why dramas like love between demon and fairy and back from the brink are not airing. The quality was just not there. Either they were not engaging or had disappointing endings. So I started to read Chinese novels . I'm neither a cho see nor can understand Chinese. But I have watched this heroine in the legend of Shen Ming lan before. She's a very good actor. Very talented. So I started watching this drama. Have to say, this is one of the best in recent times. Be it the acting, production value or the choice of actors, it's just outstanding. This heroine especially, she's not some lily livered dramatic girl. She's emotionally strong, independent, feisty and intelligent. She's not prone for dramas nor does she make a fuss on anything. She's really dignified. And the male lead, I've never seen his drama a before, but he's an apt choice for this drama. He has done justice to this role. He doesn't talk much, but his emotions are clearly conveyed to us nevertheless. He's protective, and powerful yet calm and dignified. They're are made for each other. So far really loving this drama. And really hope they won't spin it with hanging or sad ending. That's my one request.

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So much potential, so it feels like a waste

I hate to give it such a mediocre rating, as it has a lot of good points. Music is fantastic, plot is interesting, romance has a lot of cute points. Executioin just is lacking. I found myself skipping forward quite a lot, particularly plots with Furong and his sister Youlan. After Ep 31 I pretty much read Cyn Lynn's blog of recaps so I could skip a ton to get to the end, I was just that uninterested in how everything turned out, except for the fate of the main couple.

In addition, I'm sorry but Zhao Liying and Lin Gengxin both are very wooden in their acting. I haven't watched anythiung else with either of them but this doesn't make me interested in pursuing any of their other works. ZLY's acting got better but in the mortal arc (when she wasn't a bird), her expressions literally did not change at all. I love how adept many Chinese actors are at microexpressions, but these were not microexpressions, they were flat/lackof expressions, which is most definitely not the same. Lin Gengxin was ok at his playfulness but I think his handsomeness did the bulk of the work for him, as did the voice actor who dubbed him. The kissing was cringingly awkward; sure I get they were both celibate before but recreating what two 15-year-old virgins are like when they first kiss isn't really necessary to sell that to us, right?

Anyway, I still did like this overall, I just feel frustrated that it had a lot more potential than what was given to us.

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Legend of Shen Li

Review with Some Spoilers!!(Not Major Spoilers Though)

Plot (10/10)
There is nothing really I do not like when it comes to the storyline of "Legend of Shen Li". It is still unique in its one way although it has similar plotline. Despite the politics and heavenly war stuffs, the plot is mainly romance focus and I could say it is bickering type. It is not something I favor most of the time. However, everything has exception. I completely love our main couple romance. It is just so deep. With blend of their bickering comedy, it falls into romantic comedy genre which is my favorite genre of all times. Of course its not only main couple relationship that is intrigueing but also their relationships with other characters are also special. The way Shen Li and her master, Shen Mu Yue, came to understand each other is awesome. Apart from main couple, Shen Li's parents love story is also very heart felt one.

Characters(9.8/10)
Shen Li
We have a female lead who is headstrong and is strong both physical and mental. Shen Li mostly sounds rational and even masculine at times as if she's the goddess of war. Her collection of weapons was awesome. However, Shen Li is a woman. She does have this vulnerable side. After all she ran away arranged marriage that might benefit her tribe because she cannot stand her groom to be, whose known as playboy, and also the marriage does not involve mutual love.
Zhao Li Ying is perfect for Shen Li who is beautiful, proud, brave, strong, stubborn but also straight forward with her feelings. And it's good news to me that Li Ying is executive producer of this drama.

Xing Shi/Xing Yun
He just reminds me straightly of Dong Hua from Eternal Love of Dream. The tricky ways he used on Shen Li, to look after him and stay with him, are evidences. Of course theres no harsh ways. And the scenes are cute. TRUELY ROMANTIC COMEDY!. One more thing he is similar to Dong Hua is that of his being highest status in heaven, and his being lonely because of it. He is usually behind the scenes, helping or support our female lead, Shen Li.
I must have seen Lin Geng Xin before. I just did not exactly where. At first he did not really look that good on me. But as I continue to watch the drama, I find him more and more handsome. He really is a good looking man, and his acting is flawless here.

Apart from the two main characters, Fu Rong Jun, Shen Li's fiance and his cousin, You Lan are entertaining characters, especially the way You Lan took Fu Rong Jun's memories of Shen Li and Xing Yun scenes, and watch them as if she's watching a romantic drama and the CP fan, that make me fall off chair from laughter. But she's someone I resonate with at times though.

And about Mo Fang, Shen Li's General, I already have a feeling he did have some feelings for Shen Li already and was likely feeling sorry for him but as the plot progressed, his plotline did not go as I imagine. It is good I does not have heartbreak for him that much at his ending.

Cinematography(9.5/10)
The Legend of Shen Li is a good standard quality of Chinese costume production. Every visual is a standard. (I am saying like this because I am encountering the ones that I prefer the cinematography this year.)
My favourite cinematography had to be the scene Xing Yun turned the ocean into ice and looked for ShenLi with heart break, because he thought she was under the ocean. That's so majestic for me and also reminding me of Frozen.

The Flow(9.5/10)
It is nearly perfect with 39 episodes. But there are times when it is a bit slow which is why I cutting out some scores. Moreover, I wish male lead was able to confessed earlier. But overall, the story is told very well.


The Ending(10/10)

It is one of the best drama ending I have come across. It wrapped up everything so well, not leaving out on any characters. Our main couple is very sweet. It is one of those drama end that left smiles on viewers and a warm heart.

The Music (8.5)
It is not the best but smooth and heartfelt along with drama. The thing is because I got more into soundtracks after getting into the drama.

I overally give it 9.5/10.
If you like Chinese Fantasy Costume Drama with a slice of Romantic Comedy (and with great acting) please give this drama a favour in trying out.

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This God Really Said “Let the World Burn”

Born into the immortal realm, Shen Li is a formidable general who refuses to be bartered away in a political marriage. Her escape goes wrong, leaving her injured and trapped in her phoenix form, tumbling straight into the human world. There, she is unexpectedly purchased at a market by Xing Yun, a sickly yet sharp minded man whose quiet life is anything but ordinary. What begins as a strange cohabitation slowly ties their fates together. As love blooms across realms, ancient evil stirs, betrayal cuts deep, and Natural Law itself is challenged. With the balance of the Three Realms at stake, Shen Li and Xing Yun must decide whether love is their greatest strength or the one taboo that could destroy everything.

The drama wastes no time pulling you in. It opens with Shen Li on the run from a forced marriage, and right away you understand who she is. Powerful, independent, adaptable, and carrying the weight of responsibility like second nature. Her inner monologue as a phoenix is both revealing and hilarious. Watching a mighty general struggle with the daily inconveniences of being a bird is comedy gold. Enter Xing Yun, gentle, strategic, witty, and looking like a stiff breeze might knock him over. The fiery phoenix and calm human pairing is a classic combo, and here it works like magic. That early mortal realm arc had me fully seated, snacks forgotten.

As the story moves forward and Shen Li regains her body while Xing Yun completes his mortal tribulation and returns as Xing Zhi, the last surviving ancient God, the romance levels up. One thing I genuinely love about this drama is how mature it feels compared to many Xianxia stories. These are not impulsive teenagers playing at destiny. Shen Li is a demon general, Xing Zhi is a God burdened with maintaining balance across the Three Realms. Duty is not a suggestion, it is the rulebook. Xing Zhi is forbidden from worldly attachments, and Shen Li understands this better than anyone. Instead of manufactured misunderstandings, their main conflict comes from responsibility, restraint, and knowing exactly what loving each other could cost.

Their push and pull is delicious. Shen Li keeps trying to shove Xing Zhi out of her life for his own good, and he keeps calmly, persistently finding his way back in. She radiates independent woman energy, yet he somehow coaxes out her softer side without ever undermining her strength. The vibe is very much “I know you can do it, but let me do it for you.” Xing Zhi’s deadpan humor deserves its own fan club. He regularly leaves Shen Li flustered or speechless, and I found myself laughing out loud more than once. The humor fits perfectly, dry, understated, and never forced.

Li Geng Xin brings a quiet charisma to Xing Zhi that really elevates the character. His godly, mature visuals help, yes, but it is his control and expressions that sell the role. His biggest strength as a character is his emotional impulsiveness when it comes to Shen Li. Unlike other godly protagonists who talk big but hesitate, this man is absolutely willing to let the world burn if it means saving her. Heaven’s wrath be damned. Shen Li, on the other hand, is often the cautious one, which makes it even more impactful when she finally goes “screw it” and boombayah with him, even when she knows better. Their existential crisis flavored romance is tension inducing in the best way, never exhausting.

Zhao Li Ying is perfection as Shen Li. Her glittery round eyes and petite frame do nothing to diminish her presence as a demoness and general. This was my first time watching her and Li Geng Xin together, and their chemistry is seriously tight. It feels natural, layered, and earned, easily one of the drama’s biggest strengths. The ensemble cast also deserves praise. Each supporting character has a purpose, whether for comedy, emotional support, or romantic complications, and none of them feel out of place or annoying. They add flavor without overpowering the main dish.

Visually, this drama is a feast. The sets are beautiful, the special effects are dreamy, and Xing Yun’s mortal realm house is honestly iconic. The CGI can lean a bit cartoonish at times, but it still works within the fairytale tone. Costumes and makeup are heavenly, pun fully intended. The ending was as sweet as dessert too, giving us a full episode of much needed closure.

Overall, I went into this drama out of boredom and came out completely in love. The Legend of Shen Li has officially earned its spot as my favorite mature Xianxia drama to date. If you like seasoned characters, restrained but powerful romance, and a love story that challenges fate without screaming about it, this one is absolutely worth your time.

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Should I? Shouldn’t I?

Yes, you should definitely give it a go. It has some moments that are questionable to the average viewer who loves this genre. It dwells into the story of the main leads’ love a little more than most but that’s only when it’s deemed necessary for the story to transition. Is it the best I have seen? No, but it is definitely a decent script to consider and well worth viewing.

It has an interesting backstory that links the two leads and not in our usual cliche type of way. They definitely did not know each other prior to the encounter.

I find it humorous at times and a bit nostalgic in one or two scenes. I am very interested to see how they will close it, and that’s always a good sign.

If you are a fan of the leads, (they are doing a phenomenal job by the way) then support your faves.

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Awestruck and Spellbound

So, I've been left awestruck and spellbound by this series. My eyelashes are still damp while writing this.

This has to be one of the fastest paced dramas I've watched in a long time. The episodes just roll one on top of the other, so you're binge watching this at 3 am.

The chemistry has the perfect fire from episode 1 to episode 39. There is no misunderstanding or insane second m/f leads. There are so many interesting side characters, especially Jin Niang Zi. Good gracious. She was so fun to watch as she set up one of the most dynamic scenes in the series. Loved her!

I'm still reeling from the beauty of this drama, the leads, the story, and the music.

The OST, which I sometimes overlook, is exceptional.

The one quote I will always remember, besides the hauntingly beautiful dialog between the leads is this one:

"Peace is hard to earn in the world." And so it is.

Highly recommend. 10/10

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