In recent years, there has been a remarkable surge in the popularity of xianxia, a captivating genre within Chinese TV fantasy dramas, novels, and animation. This rise has not only captivated audiences in China, but has also resonated with viewers around the globe.
Many drama watchers are discovering this genre, and if you’re one of them, you’re in the right place. This article will discuss xianxia’s origins, characteristics, and top dramas that have helped it rise to fame.
Understanding xianxia
Xianxia, translated as “immortal heroes,” is a genre that combines martial arts, fantasy, and elements of Eastern philosophy.
Rooted in Chinese folklore, Taoism, and Buddhism, this genre draws inspiration from ancient beliefs. The stories of protagonists cultivating immortality provide a unique blend of fantasy and philosophy. This genre integrates elements like gods, demons, and immortal beings into its narrative.
Cultural factors significantly impact these stories, changing character arcs, and how stories are told.
Key characteristics of xianxia
Xianxia has many characteristics that create intricate stories of mystique, adventure, and transcendence in the story; here are some of them.
Cultivation as a central theme
Cultivation forms the core of these narratives, wherein characters practice martial or mystical arts to enhance their strength and extend their lives. This process involves meditative techniques, building up vital energy known as qi, and progressing through distinct levels, each offering physical or spiritual benefits.
Incorporation of magical beings
Supernatural creatures like demons, spirits, and magical beasts inhabit the xianxia world, acting as both allies and adversaries to protagonists. On the path of cultivation, these beings are vital. They give chances to grow and problems to solve.
Enchanted items
These narratives abound with magical items, including pills, elixirs, and enchanted weapons. Often ranked by power, these items aid characters in their cultivation journey. The famous flying sword, a magical weapon used for long-range attacks, is an iconic example.
Concept of apotheosis
Apotheosis, transforming mortals into gods, is a pinnacle in this genre’s storytelling. Characters striving for this divine status represent the ultimate goal of cultivation, providing a stark juxtaposition against their current challenges.
Xianxia vs. wuxia
While xianxia and wuxia share a historical setting in ancient China and a focus on martial arts, their distinctions are crucial. The xianxia genre ventures into “high fantasy,” incorporating supernatural elements beyond the believable feats of martial artists found in wuxia, which is considered “low fantasy.”
Xianxia, with its fantastical elements and cultivation focus, distinguishes itself from wuxia’s historical and more grounded narratives. While sharing martial arts and ancient Chinese settings, the two genres cater to different storytelling styles.
Popular xianxia dramas
These dramas offer a unique mix of fantasy, romance, action, and suspense, showing that the genre can interest many viewers. If you want to start on xianxia dramas, then check out this list of the popular ones.
‘The Untamed’
The Untamed boasts a captivating storyline, humorous characters, and unexpected plot twists. With a remarkable MDL rating of 9.1/10, it has garnered over 8 billion views, making it a powerhouse in the xianxia genre. This drama is an adaptation of the popular Danmei (Boys Love) novel Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation.
‘Eternal Love’ (‘Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms’)
An adaptation of the novel Three Lives, Three Worlds, Ten Miles Of Peach Blossoms, this drama follows the love story of deities Bai Qian and Ye Hua. With an MDL rating of 8.9/10 and visually stunning graphics, it has become one of the most-watched dramas in history.
‘Love and Redemption’
Earning an MDL rating of 8.8/10, Love and Redemption narrates the forbidden love story between Chu Xuanji, a sect leader’s daughter lacking six senses, and Yu Si Feng, a masked disciple. This female-leading drama promises goosebumps and a unique Cinderella story.
‘Ashes of Love’
With an MDL rating of 8.7/10, Ashes of Love explores the romantic tale between a heavenly crown prince and a goddess from the flora realm. Its intricate plot and exciting twists have captured viewers’ hearts, making it a must-watch for xianxia enthusiasts.
Xianxia in the global context
Audiences worldwide have grown to love the unique aspects of xianxia drama, drawn to the genre’s mysterious stories and cultural depth. Translations are the bridge in introducing these dramas to a broader readership.
Also, there is no doubt that these dramas have affected Western fantasy writing. Authors have been influenced by the genre and added elements of cultivation, immortal heroes, and fantastical worlds.
