15 Must-Watch Chinese (Fantasy) Period Dramas in 2024
The historical drama market of 2024 is set to be a battleground of top-tier productions, with many new series poised for release. Here, we have a list of 15 must-watch historical dramas, each featuring top stars. Which one are you most excited about?
1. Follow Your Heart (颜心记)
Starring: Luo Yunxi, Song Yi, Cheng Lei, Chen Yao
This drama follows the story of the proud and cunning chief constable Jiang Xinbai, who meets the quirky traveling doctor Yan Nanxing while investigating a case. Both carry their own secrets, navigating through a romance of "three unions and three separations" as they uncover the mastermind behind the "Wu Xiang Disaster." The collaboration between Luo Yunxi and Song Yi is highly anticipated for its potential chemistry.
2. Hero Legends (英雄志)
Starring: Cheng Yi, Li Yitong, Xiao Shunyao, Zheng Yecheng
The series tells the tale of the young scholar Lu Yun, who, amidst the turbulence of the times, undergoes a transformation through trials of love and hate, evolving into a hero with a strong sense of justice. The reunion of Li Lianhua and Di Feisheng promises another gripping narrative.
3. Moonlight Mystique (白月梵星 )
Starring: Bai Lu, Ao Ruipeng
Adapted from Xing Ling's novel "Bai Shuo Shang Shen," it follows the story of Bai Shuo, a general's daughter, who is saved by the great demon Brahma Yue during her quest for immortality. Their initial conflicts give way to a humorous and inspiring journey to immortality. Bai Lu's popularity and acting skills are a given, while Ao Ruipeng aims to prove himself and elevate his status.
4. Timeless Love (七夜雪)
Starring: Joseph Zeng, Li Qin
Based on Cang Yue's novel of the same name, it narrates the story of the unruly swordsman Huo Zhanbai and the master healer Xue Ziye, who go from adversaries to trusted confidants, facing a cruel destiny together. The scenic snow-covered landscapes and fluid action scenes are already winning hearts.
5. Guardians of the Dafeng (大奉打更人)
Starring: Dylan Wang, Tian Xiwei
This drama features Yang Ling, a modern-day worker who accidentally travels back to the Da Feng dynasty. Using his advanced modern skills, he teams up with the clever girl Lin An to solve cases and protect the peace. Both leads are rising stars, heightening audience expectations.
6. The Legend of Shen Li (与凤行)
Starring: Zhao Liying, Lin Gengxin
Adapted from Jiu Lu Fei Xiang's novel, it tells the love-hate story of the Blue Cang King Shen Li and the god Xing Zhi. The two actors reunite after seven years, hoping to fulfill fans' expectations from "Princess Agents." Fans hope Lin Gengxin can finally carry Zhao Liying effortlessly.
7. A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality (凡人修仙传)
Starring: Yang Yang, Jin Chen
Based on Wang Yu's novel, this drama follows the ordinary orphan Han Li, who stumbles into the martial world, starting an epic journey of defying odds to achieve immortality. Yang Yang's costume look is quite striking, and there's high anticipation for a successful comeback.
8. Burning Flames (烈焰)
Starring: Ren Jialun, Xing Fei, Yan Yikuan
Adapted from the same-name web comic, it depicts the story of Wu Geng, a human boy who inherits his father's will and endures ten years of hardship to lead his people in rebellion against the gods. With a star-studded cast, spectacular special effects, and a grand narrative, it's expected to be a hit.
9. Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Red-Moon Pact (狐妖小红娘月红篇)
Starring: Yang Mi, Gong Jun
Set in a world where humans and spirits coexist, it tells the love story of the fox spirit leader Tu Shan Honghong and the Taoist Dongfang Yuechu, who strive to maintain peace between their realms. With an all-star cast and beautiful costumes and sets, this series aims to set a high bar for the franchise.
10. The Guide to Capturing a Black Lotus(永夜星河)
Starring: Esther Yu, Ding Yuxi
The story follows the young girl Ling Miaomiao who accidentally enters a book's world, becoming the childhood friend of demon hunter Mu Sheng, and embarking on a delightful journey of demon hunting. After their previous collaboration in "Moonlight," fans are eager for more surprises from this duo.
