A Whisker-Tickling Adventure in I’m a Pet at Dali Temple (2018)
I’m a Pet at Dali Temple (2018) is a charming Chinese drama that blends fantasy, romance, and mystery in a delightful package. This 22-episode series, directed by Liu Yase and aired on iQiyi from September 25 to October 30, 2018, is adapted from the novel Beast-Taming Princess by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. Starring Xu Kai Cheng as Qing Mo Yan and Hu Yi Xuan as Ru Xiao Lan, the drama combines time-travel, magical transformations, and a detective-like setting in the mystical Dali Temple. With its lighthearted tone and adorable romance, this hidden gem is perfect for fans of whimsical historical dramas. Here’s why I’m a Pet at Dali Temple deserves a spot on your watchlist.
A Purr-fectly Unique Premise
The story follows Ru Xiao Lan, a modern-day girl who accidentally time-travels to the ancient Ming Kingdom and transforms into a cat upon arrival. She’s taken in by Qing Mo Yan, the powerful and enigmatic chief of Dali Temple, a magical institution that investigates supernatural cases. As a cat, Xiao Lan becomes Mo Yan’s pet, but she soon discovers she can shift back to human form under specific conditions. To return to her own time, she must collect mystic jades while assisting Mo Yan in solving bizarre cases, all while navigating her growing feelings for him and uncovering secrets about her own identity.
The drama’s blend of fantasy and mystery sets it apart. Each case at Dali Temple—ranging from ghostly hauntings to cursed artifacts—is infused with supernatural elements, keeping viewers intrigued. The time-travel and cat-transformation premise adds a playful twist, making Xiao Lan’s journey both comedic and heartfelt. As one reviewer on MyDramaList enthused, “This drama is so adorable and light-hearted, with just the right amount of mystery to keep you hooked.”
Adorable Chemistry and Strong Leads
Hu Yi Xuan shines as Ru Xiao Lan, bringing spunk and charm to her role as a modern girl turned feline. Her cat-like antics, from pouting for attention to sneaking around Dali Temple, are both hilarious and endearing. Xu Kai Cheng’s Qing Mo Yan is the perfect counterpart—a stoic, intelligent leader with a soft spot for his “pet.” Their chemistry is the heart of the drama, evolving from playful bickering to a sweet, slow-burn romance. Fans love their dynamic, with one viewer noting, “The leads’ interactions are so cute, especially when she’s in cat form and he’s unknowingly doting on her.”
The supporting cast, including Wang Xi Zhi as the loyal guard Shang Qing Tian and Xu Qin as the mischievous fairy Xiao Qi, adds humor and warmth. While some secondary characters lack depth, their quirky personalities enhance the drama’s lighthearted vibe. The ensemble’s camaraderie, especially during case investigations, creates a cozy, team-oriented atmosphere at Dali Temple.
Themes of Loyalty and Self-Discovery
I’m a Pet at Dali Temple explores themes of loyalty, identity, and belonging. Xiao Lan’s journey is one of self-discovery as she grapples with her dual existence as a human and a cat, all while unraveling her mysterious connection to the Ming Kingdom. The drama also emphasizes trust and teamwork, as Xiao Lan and Mo Yan work together to solve cases and protect the temple. The romance is refreshingly free of toxic tropes, focusing on mutual respect and support. As one Reddit user commented, “The romance is sweet and not overdone, with a focus on their partnership in solving mysteries.”
The supernatural cases also carry subtle messages about justice and compassion, as the temple resolves disputes involving both humans and mystical creatures. The drama’s light tone ensures these themes feel accessible without being heavy-handed.
A Few Hiccups, But Still Charming
While I’m a Pet at Dali Temple is beloved for its charm, it’s not without flaws. The 22-episode runtime feels slightly stretched, with some cases dragging or feeling repetitive. Reviewers note that the plot slows in the middle, particularly when the focus shifts to less engaging side characters. The ending, while satisfying, leaves a few questions unanswered about Xiao Lan’s origins, which some viewers found abrupt. Additionally, the low budget is occasionally noticeable in the CGI for Xiao Lan’s cat form and certain special effects, though the drama’s humor and heart overshadow these shortcomings.
Visuals and Soundtrack
Despite its modest budget, the drama’s visuals capture the mystical allure of Dali Temple with colorful costumes and atmospheric sets. The cat transformation scenes, while not always polished, add a playful charm. The OST, featuring soft, whimsical tracks, complements the drama’s tone, with the ending theme “Dream of Dali Temple” earning praise for its emotional resonance. As one viewer put it, “The music perfectly matches the drama’s quirky and romantic vibe.”
Why You Should Watch
The unique premise of a time-traveling cat, paired with Xu Kai Cheng and Hu Yi Xuan’s adorable chemistry, makes it a standout in the historical fantasy genre. While it has minor pacing issues and budget constraints, its lighthearted storytelling and heartwarming moments make it a binge-worthy treat. As a MyDramaList reviewer raved, “If you’re looking for something fun and different, this drama is a must-watch!”
Available on iQiyi and Viki with English subtitles, I’m a Pet at Dali Temple is perfect for viewers craving a feel-good drama with a touch of whimsy. Curl up and dive into this feline-fueled adventure—you’ll be purring with delight by the end!