Synopsis
Based on the novel Mo Dao Zu Shi by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu, The Untamed follows the resurrection of Wei Wuxian and his journey alongside Lan Wangji to uncover the truth behind events from sixteen years ago.
The Untamed: A Xianxia Masterpiece That Captivated the World
The Untamed (陈情令) is one of the most acclaimed Chinese television dramas of 2019, directed by Zheng Weiwen and Chen Jialin. Based on the wildly popular danmei novel Mo Dao Zu Shi (Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation) by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu, the series premiered on Tencent Video on June 27, 2019, and concluded on August 20, 2019, running for a total of 50 episodes at approximately 45 minutes each.
Story Synopsis
The story centers on Wei Wuxian, a cultivator infamous for practicing demonic arts, known as the "Yiling Patriarch." Sixteen years after his tragic death, Wei Wuxian is resurrected through a sacrificial ritual performed by Mo Xuanyu. His return brings him face to face with Lan Wangji, his kindred spirit from a previous life. Together, they embark on a journey to solve a series of mysteries connected to a dark chapter in their shared past.
The narrative weaves through the complex relationships and conflicts among five great cultivation clans: the Yunmeng Jiang, Gusu Lan, Lanling Jin, Qinghe Nie, and Qishan Wen sects, creating an expansive and beautifully crafted xianxia world.
Key Information
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Based On | Mo Xiang Tong Xiu's Mo Dao Zu Shi |
| Directors | Zheng Weiwen, Chen Jialin |
| Writers | Yang Xia, Deng Yaoyu, Ma Jing, Guo Guangyun |
| Starring | Xiao Zhan (Wei Wuxian), Wang Yibo (Lan Wangji) |
| Episodes | 50 |
| Premiere | June 27, 2019 |
| Network | Tencent Video |
| Douban Rating | 8.2 / 10 |
Cast and Characters
The drama stars Xiao Zhan as the spirited and mischievous Wei Wuxian, and Wang Yibo as the stoic and principled Lan Wangji. Their on-screen chemistry became a global phenomenon, drawing millions of devoted fans worldwide. The supporting cast includes Liu Haikuan as Lan Xichen, Huang Ziteng as Lan Qiren, Zhu Zanjin as Jin Guangyao, and Qi Peixin as Jin Ling, among many others who bring the rich tapestry of characters to life.
Cultural Impact
The Untamed surpassed 9.5 billion views on Tencent Video by June 2021, making it one of the most-watched Chinese dramas on the platform. Its international success extended far beyond China, with massive fanbases in Thailand, Japan, South Korea, and across the globe. The series is widely credited as a landmark achievement in exporting Chinese xianxia culture to international audiences, spawning two spin-off films (Fatal Journey and The Living Dead), a concert tour, and a lasting cultural legacy that continues to influence the genre today.
References
- Wikipedia: The Untamed (TV series)
- Tencent Video: Official The Untamed page
- Douban: The Untamed entry (rating 8.2)
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