The Legend of Shen Li

与凤行 ‧ Drama ‧ 2024
Completed
1Maverickk
4 people found this review helpful
Apr 8, 2024
39 of 39 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10

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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Completed
Mildred Liu
4 people found this review helpful
Apr 11, 2024
39 of 39 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 9.5
Acting/Cast 10
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 7.0
This review may contain spoilers
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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Ongoing 32/39
Mona4494
7 people found this review helpful
Apr 5, 2024
32 of 39 episodes seen
Ongoing 0
Overall 10
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 9.5

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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Completed
JoanneChun
3 people found this review helpful
Apr 27, 2025
39 of 39 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 6.5
Story 7.5
Acting/Cast 5.5
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 5.5

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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Completed
Winny_DramaFan
3 people found this review helpful
Jun 10, 2024
39 of 39 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 9.5
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 10
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 8.0
This review may contain spoilers
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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Completed
Chelsorou
3 people found this review helpful
11 days ago
39 of 39 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 5.0
Story 5.0
Acting/Cast 6.5
Music 8.5
Rewatch Value 1.0

Snooze fest

This came highly recommended to me so I was really disappointed when it was a snooze fest. Something about it was just soo slow paced with a lot of filler side stories that didn't seem necessary. The leads also had zero chemistry in my opinion. You could call this a slow burn but when it finally got to the "burn" there wasn't even a burn.

Also, sooo many flashbacks that weren't necessary. They probably could have cut 50% of this drama.
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Completed
fancy
3 people found this review helpful
Apr 5, 2024
39 of 39 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 9.5
Story 9.5
Acting/Cast 10
Music 7.0
Rewatch Value 9.0
This review may contain spoilers

A happy ending in xianxia after a never ending 'open-ending' drought? Who would have thought?

The acting in this was great and the comedy was so fun. I loved watching every stage of SL and XZ/XY.

Some highlights below:

SL as a chicken/pheonix demanding that XY carry her
XZ telling SL that he can't love her
The cave scene
All of ep 39
SL and her master's mother-daughter relationship
Lady Jin
The fight scenes

This is such a 'feel-good' show. Not too much drama and lots of entertaining moments. 9.5 out of 10 stars.
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Completed
Aveslopemen
4 people found this review helpful
Apr 21, 2024
39 of 39 episodes seen
Completed 3
Overall 6.5
Story 6.5
Acting/Cast 7.5
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 5.0

Overall Good, however not one of my Top Favourites.

Just finished the series! Overall, it's alright, with potential to appeal strongly to some viewers, but it didn't quite hit the mark for me, especially after 20 episodes in. The comedic elements, particularly with Furong and his sister, were a highlight for me. However, I struggled to connect with the main female and male leads, possibly due to the pacing, and the story being a bit drawn out. My emotional investment leaned more towards characters like Mofang and the backstory of the female lead's parents, as well as the development of some minor characters. While it didn't entirely captivate me, I'd still encourage anyone intrigued to give it a chance, as individual experiences with the show may vary.

Side note: Despite some scenes where the music randomly played, the overall impact of the music in this series evoked emotions and set the tone for various scenes adding depth to the storytelling - some parts got very emotional haha!

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Completed
LamaNoDrama
4 people found this review helpful
Nov 12, 2025
39 of 39 episodes seen
Completed 3
Overall 10
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10

A Breathtaking Tale of Love and Destiny

The Legend of Shen Li is a masterpiece of Chinese fantasy television that blends myth, emotion, and visual splendor into an unforgettable viewing experience. The storytelling is elegant and offering a balance between grandeur and intimacy that few series achieve. The chemistry between the lead actors is magnetic — their performances bring depth and authenticity to a world filled with gods, mortals, and destiny.

What truly sets this series apart is its ability to evoke emotion without relying on clichés. The pacing feels deliberate, allowing the audience to fully absorb the beauty of its world and the complexity of its characters. The cinematography and costume design are stunning, turning every frame into a work of art.

I especially loved how much focus was placed on the individual characters — you can truly see them grow, struggle, and transform throughout the story. Their personal journeys make the series even more compelling and emotionally resonant.

While The Legend of Shen Li is rich in fantasy and lore, at its heart it’s a story about love, courage, and self-discovery. It’s the kind of series that leaves you thinking long after the final scene — a rare gem in modern television.

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Ongoing 35/39
Myexperience101
3 people found this review helpful
Apr 8, 2024
35 of 39 episodes seen
Ongoing 0
Overall 9.0
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 9.5
Music 8.5
Rewatch Value 8.5

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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Completed
TammyLBailey
3 people found this review helpful
Apr 13, 2024
39 of 39 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10

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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Completed
Kaelee Naksu
3 people found this review helpful
Apr 6, 2024
39 of 39 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10
This review may contain spoilers

BEST HISTORICAL CHINESE EVER !

I want to cry just to write this review. The Drama overwhelmed me with intense emotions at each episode whether it was joy, anxiety, fear, sadness. I was amazed by the exceptional quality of the special effects. The story has no respite, I did not find any useless length and each character is well developed. I like the chronology of the story and the fact that nothing is left to chance, we have all the answers to our questions. The romance between the two leads was solar and of ultimate confidence. The kind of solid relationship that can challenge everything together. One does not go into the other despite their various responsibilities and they have never been truly separated or far from the other for too long and that too was pleasant. I really liked the nice second leads also who all had their endearing personality regardless of their personal motivation. I had a preference for the world of immortals and mortals but paradise was not so bad also by knowing them all. In this Drama which is a masterpiece in my opinion that has very well respected the original novel work, I had my dose of everything: Beautiful romance, many kisses, avoided clichés, breathtaking fights, super OST (all great) captivating story with meaning to finish on a happy ending.

It's a Drama that I HIGHLY recommend because it's really a ref and one of my favorites now.

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The Legend of Shen Li poster

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  • Score: 8.7 (scored by 10,201 users)
  • Ranked: #279
  • Popularity: #887
  • Watchers: 25,199

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