Diving into the Fiery Romance of The King of Blaze (2018)
The King of Blaze (2018) is a captivating Chinese fantasy romance drama that weaves a tale of love, sacrifice, and cosmic battles across ancient and modern settings. Adapted from the bestselling Taiwanese manhua by You Su-Lan, this 61-episode series, split into two parts, aired on Hunan TV, iQiyi, Youku, and Mango TV from November 26, 2018, to January 23, 2019. Starring Chen Bolin and Jing Tian, and directed by Hu Yi Juan, it blends wuxia, xianxia, and modern drama elements, offering a unique viewing experience. Here’s why this drama is a must-watch for fans of epic fantasies and heartfelt romances.
A Tale Spanning Time and Realms
The King of Blaze unfolds in a mystical universe where six powerful deities, including Fire God Zhong Tian (Chen Bolin) and Wind God Qian Mei (Jing Tian), protect a beautiful star domain called Shenyu. When dark forces threaten their realm, Qian Mei sacrifices herself to save Zhong Tian, leaving her fate unknown. Qian Mei. Their encounter sparks a complex romance that spans lifetimes, fraught with danger from dark forces led by Zhong Tian’s former friend, Di Yun.
The series is divided into two parts: Part 1: Battle of the Dawn of Fire (28 episodes) is set in the ancient era and Tang Dynasty, focusing on mythical battles and historical romance. Part 2: A Thousand Miles of the Same Wind (33 episodes) shifts to the modern era, where Zhong Tian, now scientist Lin Ye, teams up with journalist Tong Feng This dual timeline adds depth, blending fantasy with contemporary issues like environmental conservation.
What Makes The King of Blaze Shine?
1. Epic Romance Across Eras
The heart of the drama lies in the love story between Zhong Tian and Qian Mei/Situ Feng Jian/Tong Feng. Their romance, marked by reincarnation and sacrifice, is both heart-wrenching and compelling. While some viewers found the main couple’s chemistry lacking depth due to overused tropes, the emotional stakes—especially Qian Mei’s sacrifice and Zhong Tian’s quest—keep you invested. The second couple, Hao Yue (Zhang Yijie) and Princess Li Ying/Wei Yong Qian (Lai Yu Meng), steals the show with their vibrant chemistry and engaging subplot, adding balance to the narrative.
2. Stellar Cast and Performances
Chen Bolin delivers a stoic yet loyal Zhong Tian, though some critiqued his exaggerated expressions, particularly in angry scenes. Jing Tian shines as Qian Mei and Situ Feng Jian, with her god-realm acting noted as more fluid than her Tang Dynasty performance. The supporting cast, including Zhang Yijie and Lai Yu Meng, brings charm and mischief, with standout performances from side characters like General Li and the Crown Prince, who defies typical drama stereotypes by pursuing his desires boldly.
3. Visual Spectacle and Production
The drama boasts impressive production values, with stunning CGI depicting Shenyu’s celestial landscapes and magical battles. The Tang Dynasty sets are rich with historical detail, while Part 2’s modern settings, including scenes shot in Iceland, add a global flair. The soundtrack is a highlight, described as “epic” and “awesome,” enhancing the emotional and action-packed moments. Chen Bolin’s off-screen antics, like dance battles and showcasing skills from archery to basketball, add a playful vibe to the production.
4. Unique Blend of Genres
The King of Blaze stands out for its ambitious blend of wuxia, xianxia, and modern drama. Part 1 immerses viewers in a mythical world of gods and martial arts, while Part 2 tackles contemporary issues like environmental protection, with Lin Ye leading an ecological group. This shift from ancient fantasy to modern science fiction is jarring for some but refreshing for others, offering a fresh take on the reincarnation trope. The modern arc’s focus on clean energy feels relevant, though it diverges from the wuxia roots of Part 1.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
Ambitious Storytelling: The dual timeline and blend of fantasy and modern themes create a unique narrative.
Visuals and Music: High-quality CGI, detailed sets, and a powerful soundtrack elevate the experience.
Supporting Cast: The second couple and side characters add depth and charm.
Rewatch Value: Fans praise Part 2’s modern arc and happy ending, with some rating it a 10/10 for rewatchability.
Weaknesses:
Main Couple Chemistry: Some viewers found Zhong Tian and Qian Mei’s romance repetitive and lacking freshness.
Pacing and Plot Holes: The story can feel slow or confusing initially, with unresolved subplots (e.g., the Empress) and unclear time passages.
Acting Critiques: Chen Bolin’s exaggerated expressions and Jing Tian’s inconsistent performance in Part 1 drew mixed reviews.
Why You Should Watch
The King of Blaze is a bold, genre-blending drama that offers something for everyone: epic battles, heartfelt romance, and a touch of environmental advocacy. While Part 1 appeals to fans of historical fantasy with its wuxia and xianxia elements, Part 2 caters to those who enjoy modern dramas with a sci-fi twist. The series’ stunning visuals, engaging supporting characters, and unique premise make it worth a watch, even if the main couple’s chemistry doesn’t always spark. If you’re patient through the slower early episodes, the story picks up, especially in Part 2’s whirlwind narrative.
Where to Watch
Stream The King of Blaze with English subtitles on platforms like Viki, iQiyi, Youku, or Mango TV. Some episodes are free, while others may require a subscription. Check Dramacool or MyAsianTV for additional streaming options.
Final Thoughts
The King of Blaze is a visually spectacular and emotionally charged drama that takes viewers on a journey from a mythical star domain to the modern world. Despite some clichés and pacing issues, its ambitious storytelling, strong supporting cast, and high production values make it a standout in the C-drama landscape. Whether you’re drawn to the ancient romance of gods or the modern quest for clean energy, this series offers a fiery adventure. Have you watched it?