Top 5 Must-Watch Chinese BL Donghua
The world of Chinese BL donghua is booming, offering a diverse range of stories with captivating characters, beautiful animation, and heartwarming narratives. If you're looking for your next binge-worthy series, here are five must-watch titles to get you started:
1. Tian Guan Ci Fu (Heaven Official's Blessing)
This highly acclaimed donghua is based on the popular novel by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. It follows the story of Xie Lian, a kind and unlucky god who is demoted to the mortal realm and later meets the powerful and mysterious martial artist, Hua Cheng. Their relationship unfolds through a complex tapestry of past lives, ancient secrets, and supernatural battles.
Why you should watch it:
- Epic Story: The intricate plot, with its blend of humor, romance, and action, will keep you glued to the screen.
- Amazing Characters: Xie Lian and Hua Cheng are two of the most compelling characters in the BL genre, each with their own depth and complexity.
- Stunning Animation: The visuals are breathtaking, with vibrant colors, intricate details, and captivating fight sequences.
2. Mo Dao Zu Shi (The Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation)
Another highly popular donghua based on a web novel by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu, Mo Dao Zu Shi tells the story of Wei Wuxian, a rebellious cultivator who is falsely accused and loses everything. Years later, he returns as a formidable force and reunites with his former friend and sworn brother, Lan Wangji.
Why you should watch it:
- Intriguing World: The donghua dives into a rich and detailed world of cultivation, with its unique rules, factions, and supernatural elements.
- Action-Packed: Filled with thrilling battles and captivating fight choreography, the donghua offers a satisfying blend of action and romance.
- Strong Character Dynamics: The relationship between Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji is complex and nuanced, with a dynamic that shifts from friendship to love over time.
3. Scum Villain's Self-Saving System
Based on the novel of the same name, this donghua follows Shen Qingqiu, a seemingly ruthless and cold-hearted cultivator who is actually trapped in a fantasy novel as the villain. Determined to avoid his tragic fate, he embarks on a journey to rewrite his destiny and mend his relationship with the male lead, Luo Binghe.
Why you should watch it:
- Comedy and Drama: The donghua seamlessly blends humor, drama, and romance, making for an engaging and entertaining viewing experience.
- Character Development: Shen Qingqiu's journey is particularly compelling, as he slowly sheds his initial cynicism and embraces genuine feelings for Luo Binghe.
- Unique Plot: The donghua offers a fresh perspective on the "reincarnation" trope, adding a layer of meta-commentary on the nature of storytelling and character tropes.
4. Word of Honor (Faraway Wanderers)
This donghua is based on the novel "Priest" and follows the story of Zhou Zishu, a powerful warrior who seeks to leave his past behind, and Wen Kexing, a mysterious and enigmatic figure who becomes entangled in Zhou Zishu's life.
Why you should watch it:
- Mature Themes: The donghua explores themes of loss, redemption, and the complexities of human relationships with depth and sensitivity.
- Beautiful Animation: The visuals are stunning, with intricate details, captivating fight sequences, and a gorgeous color palette.
- Strong Supporting Characters: The donghua features a cast of memorable supporting characters who contribute to the richness of the narrative.
5. The Untamed (Chen Qing Ling)
Based on the same novel as Mo Dao Zu Shi, The Untamed offers a different interpretation of the story, focusing more on the political intrigue and the tragedy of Wei Wuxian's past.
Why you should watch it:
- Strong Performances: The live-action adaptation boasts strong performances from its actors, bringing the characters to life in a captivating way.
- Epic Scope: The donghua features a large and complex world with diverse characters and intricate political machinations.
- Emotional Depth: The story explores themes of loss, forgiveness, and the power of love with a deep emotional resonance.
These are just a few of the many amazing Chinese BL donghua out there. With its growing popularity, the genre is sure to continue to flourish and captivate audiences with its diverse stories and captivating characters.