Untamed The Untamed (The Untamed, Chen Qing Ling) is a 2019 Chinese fantasy drama series based on the Mo Dao Zu Shi (The Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation) novel by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. It became a massive hit both in China and internationally, thanks to its compelling story, complex characters, and strong performances—particularly by Xiao Zhan (as Wei Wuxian) and Wang Yibo (as Lan Wangji).
Key Plot Points:
- The story follows Wei Wuxian, a mischievous but talented cultivator who returns from the dead after being wrongfully accused of dark magic and causing a massacre.
- He reunites with Lan Wangji, a disciplined and righteous cultivator from the Gusu Lan Clan, as they uncover a conspiracy threatening the cultivation world.
- The series explores themes of justice, loyalty, and redemption while weaving in political intrigue, supernatural elements, and deep emotional bonds.
Why It’s Popular:
- Chemistry Between Leads – The dynamic between Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji (often referred to as “WangXian” by fans) is central to the story, blending humor, tragedy, and deep emotional connection.
- Rich Storytelling – The narrative shifts between past and present, slowly revealing the truth behind Wei Wuxian’s downfall and the hidden schemes of powerful clans.
- Beautiful Production – From costumes to set designs and fight choreography, the series is visually stunning.
- Loyalty to the Novel – While adapting the BL (Boys’ Love) elements to fit censorship, the show retains the deep bond between the leads, satisfying both novel fans and new viewers.
Adaptations & Spin-offs:
- Donghua (Anime): Mo Dao Zu Shi – A well-received animated adaptation.
- Manhua (Comic): Also titled Mo Dao Zu Shi.
- Audio Drama: A popular voice-acted version.
Main Characters & Relationships
- Personality: Playful, rebellious, genius inventor of demonic cultivation.
- Arc: Once a bright disciple of Yunmeng Jiang Clan, he becomes an outcast after defending the weak using forbidden magic. His resurrection leads to redemption.
- Key Traits: Charismatic, self-sacrificing, and morally gray.
Lan Wangji(Lan Wangji) – Wang Yibo
- Personality: Stoic, righteous, and deeply principled (Gusu Lan Clan’s “Second Jade”).
- Arc: Starts as Wei Wuxian’s foil but becomes his most loyal protector. His quiet love and guilt over failing Wei Wuxian in the past drive his actions.
Key Traits: Reserved yet fiercely devoted.
Key Supporting Characters:
- Jiang Cheng (Jiang Cheng) – The angry, conflicted brother of Wei Wuxian’s adoptive sister.
- Lan Xichen(Lan Xichen) – Lan Wangji’s kind-hearted elder brother.
- Nie Huaisang (Nie Huaisang) – The “useless” schemer behind major revelations.
- Jin Guangyao(Jin Guangyao) – The manipulative villain with tragic motives.
Notable Relationships:
- WangXian (Wei Wuxian x Lan Wangji): A bond built on mutual respect, sacrifice, and unspoken love (adapted subtly due to censorship).
- Jiang Cheng & Wei Wuxian: A brotherhood shattered by betrayal and miscommunication.
- Xue Yang & Xiao Xingchen: A dark subplot about obsession and cruelty.
Themes & Symbolism
- Morality vs. Orthodoxy: Wei Wuxian’s demonic cultivation challenges rigid sect rules—is he a villain or a hero?
- Loyalty & Betrayal: Many characters are torn between duty and personal bonds.
- Redemption: The story questions whether past sins can ever be forgiven.
- Found Family: Wei Wuxian’s true home isn’t blood but those who stand by him (Lan Wangji, Wen Ning).
Differences from the Novel (Mo Dao Zu Shi)
- Romance: The novel explicitly portrays WangXian as a BL couple; the drama implies it through subtext (e.g., music, glances).
- Pacing: The drama rearranges flashbacks for clarity, while the novel uses a non-linear narrative.
- Censorship: Some violent/gory scenes are toned down (e.g., Wei Wuxian’s death).
Cultural Impact & Fandom
- Merchandise & Concerts: Official soundtracks, action figures, and even a The Untamed-themed ice show!
- Fan Creations: Countless fanfics, art, and memes (e.g., “Lan Wangji’s forehead ribbon” as a metaphor for his heart).
- Awards: Won “Best Drama” at the 2019 Weibo TV Series Awards.
Where to Watch & Adaptations
- Drama: Available on Tencent Video (WeTV), Netflix (some regions), Viki, YouTube.
- Novel: Mo Dao Zu Shi has official English translations (7 Senses/Exiled Rebels Scanlations).
- Donghua (Anime): Mo Dao Zu Shi on WeTV, Bilibili, Funimation.
- Manhua (Comic): Licensed in English via WeComics.
Memorable Moments (Spoilers!)
- “Yi City Arc” – A heartbreaking side story involving blind cultivator Xiao Xingchen.
- Wei Wuxian’s Death – The tragic cliff scene where Jiang Cheng’s hatred and Lan Wangji’s despair collide.
- Final Confession – Lan Wangji’s “Come back to Gusu with me” carries deep emotional weight.
Similar Dramas
If you loved The Untamed, try:
- Guardian(Soul-Calming)– Mix of supernatural and deep bonds.
Hidden Symbolism & Easter Eggs
The Meaning Behind Names
- Untamed “No Envy(Wú Xiàn) means “no envy” or “without desire,” reflecting his carefree nature.
- Ironically, his downfall comes from others’ envy (Jin Guangyao, Jiang Cheng).
- “Forget the Machine” (Wàng Jī) means “to forget worldly concerns,” symbolizing his detachment—until Wei Wuxian changes him.
- Translates to “to state feelings,” representing his emotions and regrets.
Visual Motifs
- White & Black: Lan Wangji (white = purity) vs. Wei Wuxian (black = rebellion).
- Forehead Ribbon (Lan Clan): A sacred object, but Lan Wangji lets Wei Wuxian touch it—symbolizing trust and love.
- Bunnies: In the novel, Wei Wuxian gifts Lan Wangji rabbits—subtly shown in the drama (episode 43).
Fan Theories & Debates
Was Wei Wuxian’s Return Planned?
- Some fans believe Nie Huaisang orchestrated Mo Xuanyu’s sacrifice to resurrect Wei Wuxian, knowing he’d expose Jin Guangyao. Clues:
- Nie Huaisang’s sudden “clueless” act (he’s actually a mastermind).
Did Lan Wangji Know Wei Wuxian Would Return?
- Novel hint: Lan Wangji kept Wei Wuxian’s flute Chenqing for 16 years, possibly hoping for his return.
- Drama hint: His emotional reaction when hearing Chenqing again (episode 2).
Jiang Cheng’s Secret Love?
- Some fans speculate Jiang Cheng had repressed feelings for Wei Wuxian (beyond brotherhood), explaining his extreme bitterness.
Behind-the-Scenes Trivia
Censorship Workarounds
- The script had to avoid explicit BL, so WangXian’s romance was shown through:
- Music: Lan Wangji’s song WangXian (written for Wei Wuxian).
- Dialogue: Lines like “You’re back.” carrying double meanings.
Actor Insights
- Xiao Zhan improvised many of Wei Wuxian’s playful moments (e.g., teasing Lan Wangji).
- Wang Yibo studied guqin (a zither) for Lan Wangji’s musical scenes.
Deleted Scenes
- A more graphic version of Wei Wuxian’s death (originally filmed but cut for censorship).
- Extended Yi City arc (Xiao Xingchen’s backstory was shortened).
Cultural & Historical Influences
Daoist & Confucian Themes
- Untamed Gusu Lan Clan’s Rules: Reflect Confucian ideals (discipline, hierarchy).
- Demonic Cultivation: Challenges Daoist “natural order” beliefs.
Real-Life Inspirations
- Yiling Patriarch: Based on folkloric “demonic” figures who defy orthodoxy.
- Cultivation Sects: Parallel ancient Chinese martial arts schools (e.g., Wudang, Shaolin).
Episode Breakdown (Key Arcs)
1. Present Timeline (Ep 1–16)
Past Timeline (Ep 17–33)
- Cloud Recesses studies, Sunshot Campaign, Wei Wuxian’s fall into demonic cultivation.
Yi City Arc (Ep 34–38)
- The tragic story of Xiao Xingchen, Xue Yang, and A-Qing (considered the most heartbreaking arc).
……….Untamed.……….
