Netflix offers a plethora of captivating Chinese fantasy shows, each boasting distinct narratives and cultural nuances. Despite encountering some censorship hurdles, the genre flourishes thanks to its compelling plots, well-developed fantasy characters (both lead and supporting), production quality, and cultural impact. As Netflix continues to augment its diverse collection of Chinese fantasy content, audiences are afforded greater access to its intricate blend of martial arts prowess, intricate relationships, mythology, and cultural folklore.
Chinese fantasy fiction plays a crucial role as a subtle platform for commentary, offering a unique perspective on societal norms and challenges. While Western literature explores the realms of Elves and Dwarves, their Eastern counterparts offer narratives deeply connected to cultural and political realities. Beyond entertainment, Chinese fantasy fiction prompts reflection and dialogue, shedding light on societal issues and advocating for reform. Its value extends beyond mere amusement, serving as a powerful tool for cultural introspection and social transformation.
10 The Untamed
Also streaming on Viki and Amazon Prime Video
The Untamed is an adaptation of the danmei novel, Mo Dao Zu Shi, which follows two cultivators, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji, as they investigate paranormal activity while navigating their complex relationship as soul mates. Drawing from Chinese folklore, the series has garnered praise for its engaging storyline, character depth, production quality, and cultural impact. Despite heavy censorship thanks to China’s ongoing ban against LGBT portrayals in film, The Untamed became one of the highest-earning dramas in 2019 (via Variety).
9 Eternal Love (also known as Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms)
Also streaming on Viki and Amazon Prime Video
Eternal Love is a romantic fantasy series chronicling the love story of a goddess (Bai Qian) and the Crown Prince of the Nine Heavens (Ye Hua) across multiple lifetimes and dimensions. Adapted from Tang Qi’s xianxia novel of the same name, Eternal Love benefits from its enchanting storyline, stunning visuals, and strong performances. The series has received critical acclaim and multiple awards in China for its emotional depth, intricate plot, and romantic chemistry.
8 The Longest Promise
Also streaming on WeTV
The Longest Promise debuted in 2021 and follows Bai Shen, a skilled martial artist with extraordinary abilities whose life of seclusion comes to an end after meeting Lin Wo, a young woman with a mysterious past. The series’ strong emotional depth, high production values, intricate plot development, and exploration of themes like destiny and redemption help distinguish it from similar titles in the genre despite being a relatively new entry. The Longest Promise is also noteworthy for its philosophical depth and intricate choreography.
7 Who Rules The World
Also streaming on WeTV
Based on the wuxia romance novel Let’s Try The World by Qing Lengyue, Who Rules the World delves into the intertwined destinies of Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi, whose passionate love blossoms amidst the tumultuous backdrop of martial arts rivalries and political intrigue. As they navigate a treacherous world filled with power struggles, betrayals, and hidden agendas, their bond is tested time and again. Who Rules the World surpassed 1 billion views on Tencent Video in just eleven days and ranked first in Netflix’s Chinese dramas, achieving global recognition for its captivating storyline and stellar performances.
10 Best Magic Fights In Fantasy Movies & TV Shows
The fantasy genre’s magic gives movies and TV creative potential that simply can’t be matched by the physical punches & kicks of normal fight scenes.
6 Love Between Fairy And Devil
Also streaming on Viki and iQIYI
Love Between Fairy and Devil is adapted from the eponymous novel by Jiu Lu Fei Xiang. It centers on the reincarnation of the Goddess Xi Yun, who inadvertently frees the Lord Devil and triggers a curse that binds their fates. Directed by Yi Zheng and Qian Jingwu, Love Between Fairy and Devil is noteworthy for its meticulous production, integrating Chinese intangible cultural heritage into the xianxia genre.
5 Once Upon A Time in Lingjian Mountain
Also streaming on iQIYI
Adapted from the manga Spirit Blade Mountain by Xian Man Dong Man, Once Upon a Time in Lingjian Mountain follows the prodigy, Wang Lu, as he enters the Spirit Blade Sect and embarks on an unconventional journey to become the strongest sage. The series is notable for its comical and modern-day infused narrative, touching on themes of relationships, loyalty, mortality vs. immortality, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. Praised for its entertaining storyline and strong performances, Once Upon a Time offers a refreshing blend of humor, emotion, and surprising depth.
4 The Legend Of The White Snake
Also streaming on Viki and iQIYI
The Legend of the White Snake retells the classic Chinese folktale of a forbidden romance between a serpent demon (Bai Suzhen) and a mortal man (Xu Xian). Benefiting from its stunning visuals, compelling storytelling, and strong performances, the series offers a modern interpretation of the timeless tale while honoring its cultural significance. Rooted in Chinese folklore, The Legend of the White Snake has garnered acclaim for its romantic storyline, character development, and cultural relevance. It introduced the story to a new generation while receiving recognition for its contributions to Chinese folklore.
3 Word of Honor
Also streaming on Viki
Word of Honor is a 2021 Chinese costume television series adapted from the danmei novel Faraway Wanderers by Priest. The story follows the leader of “The Window of Heaven” assassin organization (Zhou Zishu) and the leader of Ghost Valley (Wen Kexing) as they become soulmates while pursuing freedom and revenge within the martial arts world. Recognized for its portrayal of relationships, Word of Honor was featured on Teen Vogue’s best Boys’ Love dramas list despite facing industry boycotts. Additionally, its Theme Concert garnered massive participation, selling out tickets within seconds (via Sohu).
2 Handsome Siblings
Only streaming on Netflix
Handsome Siblings is based on the Peerless Double Jade novel by Gu Long, telling the story of twin brothers separated at birth, who grow up to become martial arts masters, each following a different path. Handsome Siblings is praised for its intricate plot, dynamic fight scenes, and compelling characters, garnering critical acclaim for its engaging storyline, strong performances, and attention to martial arts choreography. Despite multiple reboots of the beloved story, Steve McCarty of South China Morning Post stated this about this particular rendition:
1 The King’s Avatar
Also streaming on Viki
The King’s Avatar is adapted from the web novel of the same name by Hu Dielan, and follows Ye Xiu, a top player in the multiplayer online video game “Glory” which is set in a virtual fantasy world. The series is especially noteworthy for its integration of technological advancements like motion capture and face capture, along with strong performances from its Donghua voice actors. After setting records for attracting over 3 billion views on Tencent Video, and 10 million views on overseas platforms like WeTV and YouTube (via Business Wire), The King’s Avatargarnered acclaim for its fresh storyline, visual effects, and spiritual focus.
