Luoyang (2021): A Tang Dynasty Epic Packed with Intrigue and Action
Luoyang (2021), also known as Wind Rises in Luoyang, is a 39-episode Chinese historical mystery drama that premiered on iQIYI from December 1, 2021, to January 5, 2022. Adapted from Ma Boyong’s novel Luoyang, the series is set during the Wu Zhou period of the Tang Dynasty and stars Huang Xuan, Wang Yibo, and Song Qian. Directed by Xie Ze, it weaves a tale of crime, conspiracy, and redemption in the bustling capital of Luoyang. With a MyDramaList rating of 8.2/10 from 7,432 users and widespread praise for its production, Luoyang is a gripping watch, though not without flaws. Here’s why this drama shines—and where it stumbles.
The Plot: A Web of Secrets in the Divine Capital
Luoyang unfolds in 676 CE, under Empress Wu Zetian’s rule, as the city of Luoyang thrives as the Tang Dynasty’s eastern capital. The story follows three unlikely allies: Gao Bingzhu (Huang Xuan), a disgraced martial artist turned underworld fugitive; Wu Siyue (Song Qian), an aristocratic investigator for the Empress’s secret police; and Baili Hongyi (Wang Yibo), a reclusive nobleman with genius intellect. Their paths converge when a suicide case linked to Empress Wu’s ascension reveals a deeper conspiracy threatening the dynasty.
Gao, seeking justice for his mentor’s death, teams up with Siyue, who’s probing a plot against Luoyang, and Hongyi, whose father’s mysterious death ties to the same scheme. Together, they uncover the sinister Chunqiu Dao (Spring and Autumn Sect), a faction manipulating events from the shadows. The drama blends detective work, political intrigue, and wuxia action, exploring themes of loyalty, class divides, and personal sacrifice against a richly detailed historical backdrop.
What Works: Production, Performances, and World-Building
Stunning Production and Historical Detail
Luoyang is a visual marvel, recreating the Tang Dynasty with breathtaking sets, from Luoyang’s vibrant Nanshi market to the opulent imperial palace. The production team built 58,000 square meters of sets across 86 scenes, per Global Times, earning praise on X for “cinematic” quality. Costumes are equally lavish, with Wu Siyue’s armor-inspired robes and Baili Hongyi’s scholarly attire reflecting their personalities. MyDramaList reviewers call the visuals “top-notch,” and DramaPanda lauds the “exquisite” attention to Tang-era aesthetics, like flower motifs and silk embroidery.
Stellar Performances and Chemistry
The cast elevates Luoyang to new heights. Huang Xuan’s Gao Bingzhu is a rugged, brooding hero whose loyalty and pain resonate deeply, with A Virtual Voyage praising his “layered” portrayal. Wang Yibo’s Baili Hongyi, a socially awkward genius, steals scenes with his deadpan humor and quiet intensity, earning MyDramaList raves as “adorable and nuanced.” Song Qian’s Wu Siyue is a fierce, principled investigator, though some find her stoic demeanor less engaging. The trio’s dynamic—Gao’s grit, Hongyi’s brains, and Siyue’s authority—creates compelling teamwork, with fans on Reddit loving their “found family” vibe. Supporting roles, like Song Yi’s conflicted noblewoman Liu Ran, add emotional weight.
Immersive World-Building and Intrigue
The drama excels in crafting a vivid Tang Dynasty, from Luoyang’s class-stratified districts to its political machinations. Ma Boyong’s influence ensures historical nuance, with references to Empress Wu’s reforms and Buddhist influences, as noted by DramaPanda. The mystery unfolds through layered cases, each revealing more about Chunqiu Dao’s plans, keeping viewers hooked. MyDramaList’s PeachBlossomGoddess calls the plot “well-plotted and structured,” and X posts highlight the “intense” twists, like a mid-series betrayal that stunned fans.
What Falls Short: Pacing, Romance, and Resolution
Uneven Pacing and Overstuffed Plot
While Luoyang starts strong, its 39 episodes struggle with pacing. The first half balances action and mystery, but the second introduces excessive subplots—palace coups, family dramas—that dilute the main conspiracy, as criticized by A Virtual Voyage. MyDramaList users note “filler” episodes around the 20s, with some wishing for a 30-episode cut. The finale, while action-packed, feels rushed, leaving key questions about Chunqiu Dao unresolved, frustrating Reddit fans who wanted a “cleaner” ending.
Underdeveloped Romance
The romance between Gao Bingzhu and Wu Siyue is a weak link. Their chemistry is solid in action scenes, but romantic moments feel forced, with awkward dialogue and limited buildup. DramaPanda notes the “not very romantic” arc, and MyDramaList’s Joyce Chan found it “lacking spark,” preferring the platonic bond between Gao and Hongyi. Liu Ran’s subplot with Hongyi fares better, but its rushed resolution disappointed shippers on X.
Inconsistent Character Focus
While the leads shine, supporting characters like Liu Ran and Gao’s underworld allies get uneven attention. Siyue’s arc, tied to her loyalty to Empress Wu, feels repetitive, and some MyDramaList reviewers found her “too serious” compared to Gao’s charisma. The drama also underuses historical figures like Wu Zetian, who appears sparingly despite her prominence, as noted by A Virtual Voyage.
The Cast: A Powerhouse Trio
Huang Xuan as Gao Bingzhu delivers a magnetic performance, blending grit and vulnerability, with MyDramaList calling him the drama’s “anchor.”
Wang Yibo as Baili Hongyi is a revelation, his subtle expressions and comedic timing earning X fans’ adoration as “scene-stealing.”
Song Qian as Wu Siyue is commanding but slightly stiff, per Reddit, though her action scenes impress.
Song Yi as Liu Ran adds emotional depth, with DramaPanda praising her “lovely” chemistry with Wang Yibo.
Why Watch Luoyang?
Luoyang is a captivating blend of historical mystery, wuxia action, and political drama, elevated by stellar performances and jaw-dropping production. Huang Xuan and Wang Yibo’s dynamic carries the series, making it a must-watch for fans of The Longest Day in Chang’an or Under the Power. Available on iQIYI and Viki, its immersive Tang Dynasty setting and intricate cases outweigh its pacing issues and lackluster romance. While not perfect, it’s a thrilling ride for those who love cerebral dramas with heart.
My Rating: 8.3/10
For its gorgeous visuals, gripping mysteries, and unforgettable leads, Luoyang is a Tang Dynasty gem worth exploring. Have you watched it? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Sources: MyDramaList, DramaPanda, A Virtual Voyage, Global Times, Cnewsdevotee, Reddit, and posts on X.