Martial Universe (2018): A Wuxia Epic with Flair but Flawed Execution
Martial Universe (2018), a 60-episode Chinese wuxia-xianxia drama, aired its first season on Dragon TV from August 7, 2018, and its second on Youku from October 11, 2018. Adapted from Tian Can Tu Dou’s novel Wu Dong Qian Kun, the series stars Yang Yang, Zhang Tianai, Wang Likun, and Wu Chun. Directed by Zhang Li, it follows Lin Dong, a young man from a disgraced clan, who rises to power with a magical talisman to battle demonic forces. With a MyDramaList rating of 7.6/10 from 5,728 users, the drama dazzles with visuals but struggles with pacing and adaptation issues. Here’s a look at what makes Martial Universe a thrilling yet uneven journey.
The Plot: A Hero’s Rise in a Demon-Threatened World
Set in a fantastical martial arts universe, Martial Universe centers on Lin Dong (Yang Yang), a spirited but overlooked youth from the Lin Clan. After discovering a mysterious stone talisman, he gains access to cultivation powers, setting him on a path to become a formidable martial artist. Alongside allies like the fiery Ying Huanhuan (Zhang Tianai), the poised Ling Qingzhu (Wang Likun), and his sworn brothers Little Marten (a marten demon) and Xiao Yan (a tiger demon), Lin Dong confronts the Yimo demons and the scheming Yuan Gate sect. His journey intertwines personal revenge, romance, and a battle to save the world from demonic invasion.
The story spans two seasons: Season 1 (40 episodes) focuses on Lin Dong’s growth and clan rivalries, while Season 2 (20 episodes) dives into the larger conflict against the Yimo and Lin Dong’s destiny as the Devour Talisman’s successor. The narrative draws from xianxia tropes—weak-to-strong protagonist, magical artifacts, and cosmic battles—but adds a unique spin with its talisman-based cultivation system.
What Works: Visuals, Action, and Yang Yang’s Charm
Stunning Production Values
Martial Universe impresses with its high production quality. Filmed at Xiangshan Global Studios, the drama boasts elaborate sets, from misty mountains to ornate clan halls, creating an immersive world. The costumes are a highlight, with Lin Dong’s rugged robes and Ling Qingzhu’s ethereal gowns earning praise on X for their “gorgeous” designs. The CGI, while heavy, enhances fight scenes with glowing talismans and demonic creatures, though some MyDramaList reviewers noted it can feel “overdone.” The effort—258 days of filming and a 1,060-member crew—shows in the drama’s visual polish.
Dynamic Action and Humor
The wuxia action is a major draw, with swordfights, talisman-powered blasts, and demon battles that keep the adrenaline pumping. Lin Dong’s early fights, like his victory over a Fire Python Tiger, are thrilling, as noted in Global Granary recaps. Yang Yang’s playful portrayal of Lin Dong adds humor, especially in scenes where he flirts or bickers with Little Marten. Fans on Reddit appreciated this “goofy” charm, calling it a refreshing contrast to typical stoic heroes.
Engaging Relationships
The drama shines in its character dynamics. Lin Dong’s bond with his adopted sister, Qing Tan, is heartwarming, with Reddit users praising their “cute and touching” moments. The romantic entanglements with Ying Huanhuan and Ling Qingzhu offer contrasting flavors—Huanhuan’s fiery banter and Qingzhu’s aloof allure—though the former resonates more with fans. MyDramaList reviews lauded the “good romantic development” between Lin Dong and Huanhuan, despite adaptation changes.
What Falls Short: Pacing, Adaptation, and Character Depth
Uneven Pacing and Editing
The drama’s pacing is a frequent complaint. Season 1’s first half drags with repetitive clan conflicts, while the second half rushes key arcs, as noted in MyDramaList reviews. Season 2 feels particularly condensed, with major events like Ying Huanhuan’s sacrifice resolved via narration or flashbacks, leaving fans on A Virtual Voyage frustrated by the “rushed” ending. Editing issues, such as jarring scene transitions and unexplained flashbacks, further disrupt the flow, with one MyDramaList user calling the story “hard to follow.”
Disappointing Adaptation
For fans of the novel, Martial Universe is a letdown. The book’s focus on Lin Dong’s relentless drive and willpower is diluted, with the drama relying on external help for his growth, as criticized on MyDramaList. Key characters, like Lin Langtian (Wu Chun), lose complexity, and major plot points, such as the seven ancestral masters, are altered or omitted. A Soompi forum user lamented the “destroyed” storyline, advising viewers to treat it as a standalone drama.
Underdeveloped Characters
While Lin Dong is likable, his arc lacks depth, with MyDramaList reviewers noting “little character growth” and “stupid choices” even late in the series. Ying Huanhuan’s portrayal as a “spoiled brat” drew ire from some, though others found her dynamic with Lin Dong endearing. Supporting characters like Lin Langtian and Qing Tan are underutilized, with Reddit users wishing for more focus on their arcs. Yang Yang’s acting, while charismatic, was critiqued for lacking nuance in emotional scenes, possibly due to his reported health issues during filming.
The Cast: A Mixed Performance
Yang Yang as Lin Dong carries the drama with his charm and comedic timing, though some MyDramaList fans felt he needed “more acting improvement.”
Zhang Tianai as Ying Huanhuan brings energy but divides viewers—some loved her sass, others found her “whiny.”
Wang Likun as Ling Qingzhu is elegant but underused, with her cold demeanor limiting emotional impact.
Wu Chun as Lin Langtian delivers a serviceable villain but lacks menace, per MyDramaList reviews.
Why Watch Martial Universe?
Martial Universe is a visually spectacular wuxia-xianxia adventure that delivers thrilling action, humor, and a binge-worthy 60 episodes. Yang Yang’s playful Lin Dong and the vibrant world-building make it a fun escape, especially for newcomers to the genre. However, its sluggish pacing, adaptation missteps, and rushed conclusion frustrate, particularly for novel fans. Available on Viki and Youku, it’s best enjoyed as a standalone drama rather than a faithful adaptation.
My Rating: 7/10
If you love wuxia with flashy CGI and don’t mind a bumpy narrative, Martial Universe is worth a try. Novel readers, proceed with caution. Have you watched it? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Sources: MyDramaList, A Virtual Voyage, Global Granary, Reddit, Soompi Forums, and posts on X.