Nirvana in Fire II: The Wind Blows in Changlin

Synopsis

"Nirvana in Fire II: The Wind Blows in Changlin" is a 2017 historical fantasy drama, created by the original team behind "Nirvana in Fire," directed by Kong Sheng and Li Xue, with screenplay by Hai Yan. Starring Huang Xiaoming, Liu Haoran, and Tong Liya, it tells the story of the Changlin royal family protecting the Liang dynasty amidst court intrigues. Rated 8.4 on Douban, while not as sensational as the first installment, it remains a quality masterpiece.

Overview

Nirvana in Fire II is a Chinese historical drama that premiered on December 18, 2017. It was created by the original production team behind Nirvana in Fire. The series was co-directed by Kong Sheng and Li Xue, written by Hai Yan, and produced by Hou Hongliang. It features Huang Xiaoming in a special starring role, with Liu Haoran, Tong Liya, and Zhang Huiwen leading the cast. Sun Chun, Wu Haochen, Mei Ting, and others also joined the production. The series consists of 50 episodes and holds a Douban rating of 8.4.

As a sequel to Nirvana in Fire, the story is set approximately fifty years after the conclusion of the first series. It follows the story of Prince Changlin Xiao Tingsheng, the successor to the meritorious Prince Jing Xiao Jingyan, and his sons Xiao Pingzhang and Xiao Pingjing, as they strive to protect the peace of the Liang Dynasty amidst a treacherous and volatile court. Although it did not achieve the same level of popularity as its predecessor, the series received widespread acclaim from audiences and critics alike for its exquisite production and solid script.

Plot

The court of the Liang Dynasty is stable, but border conflicts persist. The Changlin Army is a formidable force guarding the northern frontier. Prince Changlin Xiao Tingsheng (played by Sun Chun) is highly respected. His eldest son, Xiao Pingzhang (played by Huang Xiaoming), is the deputy commander of the Changlin Army, renowned for his loyalty and bravery. His second son, Xiao Pingjing (played by Liu Haoran), studies at the Langya Hall, possessing a free-spirited and straightforward personality.

During a northern border battle, the Chief Grand Secretary Xun Baishui secretly cuts off frontline supplies, resulting in Xiao Pingzhang being severely wounded. Upon hearing the news, Xiao Pingjing descends from Langya Hall to investigate the matter. Simultaneously, remnants of the Ye Qin kingdom, destroyed thirty years prior, secretly operate, attempting to exploit internal conflicts within the Liang court to realize their ambition of restoring their nation.

Undercurrents surge within the court. The civil official faction led by Xun Baishui grows increasingly wary of the military achievements of the Changlin Prince's household, constantly scheming to suppress them. The Changlin Prince's household faces dual pressures from internal strife and external threats. Xiao Pingzhang struggles with difficult choices between loyalty and filial piety, while Xiao Pingjing matures from a youth into a pillar of talent capable of standing on his own.

The story continues the grand theme of family, state, and the world from Nirvana in Fire, showcasing the steadfastness and sacrifice of the loyal Changlin household amidst power struggles, as well as the growth and transformation of a new generation of young heroes.

Cast

Cultural Impact

Nirvana in Fire II faced immense pressure before its premiere—the halo of its predecessor Nirvana in Fire, a masterpiece with a Douban rating of 9.4, made surpassing it nearly impossible for the sequel. However, directors Kong Sheng and Li Xue, along with writer Hai Yan, chose not to replicate the successful formula of the first series. Instead, they told a completely new story, focusing on different characters and themes.

Huang Xiaoming's performance was a major surprise in this series. Many were initially skeptical of his appearance in historical costume, but he movingly portrayed Xiao Pingzhang's loyalty, deep affection, and forbearance. Particularly, his final sacrificial scene moved countless viewers to tears. This is also considered one of Huang Xiaoming's most outstanding performances in recent years.

As a representative of the new generation of actors, Liu Haoran distinctly portrayed Xiao Pingjing's growth process from a spirited youth to a mature general burdened with heavy responsibilities. His performance was natural and sincere, holding his own in scenes with veteran actors.

The series' art direction, cinematography, and soundtrack maintained the consistently high standards of Daylight Entertainment. Each frame resembled an exquisite ancient painting, vividly showcasing the grandeur of the Liang Dynasty court and the desolate yet majestic beauty of the northern frontier.

References

1. Douban Movie: https://movie.douban.com/subject/26665065/
2. Baidu Baike: https://baike.baidu.com/item/琅琊榜之风起长林/19657955
3. Wikipedia: https://zh.wikipedia.org/zh-cn/琅琊榜之风起长林