whoissilmoy

There was a lot of subtle humor in the novel, you almost have to use your imagination to see the fun. For example, Mei searched for the tabby cat, who ran away, when he found one, he wasn't sure if it was Wu Zhen, then a man said that's my daughter's cat, then another tabby showed up, and Mei thought that might be Wu Zhen, but the man said, oh my daughter has two tabbies. Poor Mei.

Mei, a powerful Taoist, cannot resist Wu Zhen. So, he has to recite chants.

My gut tells me whoever adapted it (the screenwriters are ghost) gave it a real plot so it's not the same daily life as in the novel, but the characters, the setting, the Taoism, the weirdness, is all there. I think all the characters will stay true to the novel, because they're such wonderful characters, that's the strength of the novel. So, I don't think anyone has any idea what the plot is. Then this director he's really into weirdness and sadistic themes, but to keep the characters intact, you also have to keep the sweetness. But I think he will build in some sadistic scenes. If you watched The Double, you see his style. I think Moonlit Reunion will be a very happy ending like the novel. I don't know, but it feels like that kind of story.

In Chinese fantasy dramas, spirits known as yao jing (妖精) are often shape-shifters who take on human or animal forms—like Wu Zhen’s deputy, Hu Zhu, a fox spirit (huli jing) rooted in folklore for seduction and trickery. Body swapping shows up too, though in this drama it seems more for comic relief than spiritual depth. These supernatural elements are grounded in Taoist philosophy, which emphasizes harmony between the spiritual and physical worlds. Talismans (fu, 符), often yellow in color, are drawn with ritual symbols to protect against evil, summon spiritual forces, or exorcise malevolent entities. Mei, a powerful Taoist in the story, has cultivated strong talismanic abilities. Knowing a bit about Taoist practices really enhances the viewing experience.

A huli jing (狐狸精) is a fox spirit from Chinese mythology, known for its ability to shapeshift, often into a beautiful seductive woman. Wu Zhen's deputy if I recall she turns herself into a seductive woman and sometimes a man too.

Taoist cultivation is the practice of refining body and spirit to align with the Tao, often aiming for spiritual power or immortality, not in the physical sense but as a transcendence of worldly limitations. This involves meditation, breathwork, and internal alchemy to strengthen qi (life energy). Rituals include chanting, offerings, and using talismans (fu, 符) to summon, protect, or banish spirits. Taoist priests cultivate these powers over time, allowing them to heal, exorcise, and maintain harmony between the physical and spiritual realms. In Moonlit Reunion, Mei Zhu Yu often recites Taoist chants when his thoughts drift toward things he feels he shouldn’t dwell on — an example of mental discipline and spiritual self-regulation, showing how deeply his cultivation shapes not just his powers, but his inner life. However, in the novel, Mei already left the temple, and I don't view him as a priest anymore, even though he still practices Taoism, which I supposed is why he can get marry. He is to me not a monk or priest, but a Taoist practitioner, even can be referred to as a Daoist due to his affiliation with the sect and its practices.

How are you ruffling feathers? I actually agreed with you — there are plenty of actors and celebrities in China that people prefer over Xu Kai, such as yourself. It’s totally fine not to like him. But since you brought it up, I think it’s fair to also acknowledge why others do appreciate him.

When he first encountered the tabby cat, he was so kind to it, he wiped its feet that got ink on it. That impressed her about him. But he didn't know it was her, so he would ignore it. Later, he realized they were missed opportunites.

Parts of the novel, it's so funny. It's the kind of humor, very endearing.
I think there may be sadistic scenes, but it's not the real Wu Zhen since spirits are shape shifters.

I don't see a Gao Tu in the cast

winwin again. very popular guy.

What kind of vibe is Sima Jiao supposed to give off in WDBTD? What aura are you feeling?

The aesthetics are so beautiful in this drama

or check You Tube channel
https://www.youtube.com/@LinmonMedia

winwin is a popular guy because I keep seeing comments like oh wow it's winwin

Xu Kai, though only moderately popular in China compared to 40–50 more prominent domestic stars, played a pivotal role in propelling the global popularity of Chinese dramas with his breakout in Story of Yanxi Palace (2018). Widely regarded as a game-changer, the drama amassed over 15 billion views worldwide and significantly amplified the overseas momentum sparked by earlier successes, expanding the market for Chinese historical dramas through strategic streaming on Netflix, Viki, and iQiyi International. Xu Kai’s organic rise—initially dismissing his overseas fandom as a “joke”—built a substantial international fanbase, evident in his 20.4 million Weibo followers and global fan communities. His low-key persona makes this achievement remarkable, as he helped pave the way for Chinese actors to gain international stardom. At the 30th Shanghai TV Festival Magnolia Awards on June 27, 2025, while not an award recipient, Xu Kai was recognized alongside other actors for his international presence and contribution to promoting Chinese content globally, a testament to his role in accelerating the global rise of Chinese dramas.

There are so many dramas in August

Oh you should see this. Their bts videos are funny too.
https://youtu.be/BqVTWzoPofI

https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/LWELdpGY5tqHEazvWm7Oag

Why does Disney+ favor Xu Kai?
Moonlit Reunion is the very first Chinese drama to be fully bought out by Disney+ for global distribution before its domestic premiere. That makes it a landmark moment in the international rollout of Chinese television—setting a new precedent for how these shows can reach global audiences.

Xu Kai nearly burst into laughter during taping a thank you to international fans, and after the taping, he burst into laughter, "Fans all over the world. I almost laugh just now. I don't have foreign fans," meaning you're pulling my leg, right?
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/4m7GKaN1qM0?feature=share

I found pictures of his parents on YT. He inherited mother's nose tip.

Gao Han is super good friend to Xu Kai. They go way back and have worked together on numerous projects. He watches his precious cats for him. It's natural that Xu Kai wants to support his friend. It just happens Moonlit Reunion got delay and coincide with WDBTD but he probably already planned to support him. It just shows that Xu Kai is not insecure, and friendship is more important to him. It has nothing to do with "competition." I doubt that even cross his mind, imo. He gave a shoutout to Wu Jinyan's drama days before TD aired, that's how I learned about the drama and ended up watching it. He also gave a shout out to Yang Mi's drama that was airing at the same time as TD. These are his friends from way back. Wu Jinyan I read she was maybe the first person or one of the early people who was really kind and helpful to Xu Kai when he started out and didn't know anything, but WJY was already in the industry for 5 yrs. and Yang Mi is a very good friend to Xu Kai. She was the one who asked for Xu Kai for the part of Yang Hua and probably recruited him for GE. Loyalty is important. I feel fans are reading too much into it.

Yi Da Qian plays Mei Si who is Mei Zhuyu's cousin. He has a very cute personality in the novel.

Moonlit Reunion focuses on two realms—human and demon—excludes immortals.
The story embeds Taoist principles in its human-demon narrative, with
Taoist Mapping in Moonlit Reunion
1. Tao (The Way) = The Supernatural Realm / Demon City
The Demon City, the hidden realm of demons that Wu Zhen governs as the Cat Master, represents the Tao, the invisible, universal force that flows through and connects all things in Taoist philosophy. The human and demon realms together form a unified cosmic order, akin to the Tao’s all-encompassing nature. Wu Zhen and Mei Zhu Yu’s ability to see and interact with demons ties them to this unseen realm, reflecting the Taoist idea of aligning with the deeper, intangible flow of existence. The Demon City, as a mystical counterpoint to Chang’an’s human world, embodies the Tao’s role as the underlying principle governing both realms.

2. Wu Wei (Effortless Action) = Wu Zhen and Mei Zhu Yu’s Governance
The Taoist principle of acting in harmony with the natural order without force or aggression, aligns with how Wu Zhen and Mei Zhu Yu manage the balance between the human and demon realms. Their subtle, hidden roles as protectors reflect effortless action, avoiding overt displays of power. Wu Zhen conceals her identity as the Cat Master behind her carefree, dandy persona, acting decisively yet harmoniously to maintain order in the Demon City. Mei Zhu Yu, a Taoist prodigy, uses his spiritual arts with restraint, likely guiding demons rather than dominating them, embodying Wu Wei.

3. Yin and Yang = Human and Demon Realms
The human and demon realms in Moonlit Reunion mirror the Taoist yin-yang duality, where opposing forces are complementary and interdependent. The human realm (yang: tangible, active, earthly) balances the demon realm (yin: mystical, hidden, spiritual), forming a harmonious whole without a strict good-vs-evil binary, unlike Star Wars’ occasional moral absolutism.
Wu Zhen and Mei Zhu Yu bridge these realms, with Wu Zhen’s bold, masculine-presenting energy (yang) complementing Mei Zhu Yu’s calm, reserved demeanor (yin). Their roles as protectors ensure neither realm overshadows the other, maintaining Taoist balance. The demons, described as “terrifying creatures,” are not inherently evil but part of the cosmic order, aligning with yin-yang’s non-judgmental interdependence.

4. Detachment from Desire = Wu Zhen and Mei Zhu Yu’s Selfless Duty
Taoist teachings advocate detachment from personal desires to avoid suffering and align with the Tao. Wu Zhen and Mei Zhu Yu’s hidden identities and dedication to protecting Chang’an reflect this detachment, prioritizing cosmic harmony over personal ambition or recognition.
Wu Zhen hides her role as Cat Master, forgoing fame despite her noble status and demonic powers. Mei Zhu Yu conceals his Taoist mastery, living humbly despite his prodigious skills. Their focus on maintaining balance between humans and demons, without seeking personal gain, mirrors Taoist detachment.

Wu Zhen = Seeker Aligning with the Tao: Wu Zhen, as the Cat Master with inherited demonic powers, is a seeker navigating the human-demon divide to maintain harmony, akin to a Taoist practitioner aligning with the Tao. Her dual life (noblewoman by day, protector by night) reflects the Taoist balance of outward action and inner purpose.
Mei Zhu Yu = Sage Embodying Wu Wei: Mei Zhu Yu, trained in Taoist arts, embodies the sage-like qualities of restraint and wisdom. His ability to manage demons with spiritual techniques suggests Wu Wei, acting effectively yet harmoniously, much like a Taoist adept guiding natural forces.
Demons = Manifestations of Imbalance or Balance: The demons in the Demon City represent forces that can disrupt or contribute to cosmic harmony. Unlike Star Wars’ Darth Vader (imbalance through desire), demons in Moonlit Reunion are not inherently evil but part of the yin-yang dynamic, requiring Wu Zhen and Mei Zhu Yu’s guidance to maintain balance.

Demons (yao or gui) are spirit beings often tied to imbalances, such as unresolved desires or disharmony, but they are not inherently evil. They exist within the Tao’s cosmic order, often requiring rituals to restore balance, aligning with yin (the unseen, spiritual realm). The absence of immortals distinguishes it from xianxia, making Taoist mapping even more fitting.
Wu Zhen and Mei Zhu Yu’s roles involve managing these beings to maintain harmony, not destroying them as in a good-vs-evil framework. This reflects Taoist principles of guiding spiritual forces without judgment, contrasting with Star Wars’ occasional moral binary.

Comparison to Star Wars
The director has taken Star Wars alien designs such as Wookiees have furs, Rodians have snouts, and Hutts are slug-like from Mos Eisley, with its eclectic mix of alien species and chaotic energy, resembles the East Market of Chang’an in Moonlit Reunion—

Taoism is baked into the DNA of Star Wars.
1. Tao (The Way) = The Force, an invisible, guiding energy that flows through all living things.
2. Wu Wei (Effortless Action) = Jedi philosophy of acting in harmony with the Force, not through aggression or control. However, though the Jedi teach Taoist ideals like detachment and harmony, the chaos of war and politics pulls them into conflict. Yoda and Obi-Wan embody the Tao; Anakin, Luke, and Rey reflect the struggle to live it.
3. Yin and Yang = Light Side and Dark Side - not just good vs evil but complementary forces in balance, though Star Wars sometimes leans toward a moral binary such as good vs evil.
4. Detachment from Desire = Jedi teachings to avoid attachment and emotion, which lead to suffering and imbalance.

Yoda = Sage embodying Wu Wei and detachment.
Luke=Seeker who learns to flow with the Tao.
Obi-Wan=Guardian of balance and restraint.
Darth Vader=Manisfestation of imbalance and desire.

You said "both voices were atrocious" when you thought both actors were dubbed by voice actors. But TXW dubbed herself. So I took that to mean, you think her dubbing is atrocious. Now you say, "I quite like both Xu kai and tian’s real voice and i’d rather they adred their voices instead of voice actors dubbing them," but you already said TXW voice was atrocious and "It was the worst of the two." You're contradicting yourself.