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A case of murdered courtesan introduced upper-class lady/amateur detective Ye Yuan An to amnesiac slave Mu Le and police detective Zhao Lan Zhi. Together, they solved the woman’s murder and many others after that. Unbeknownst to them, all the cases are connected to a disastrous attempt 19 years earlier to steal a holy artifact, in which monk Tian Qiao was pardoned by the Emperor and monk Tian Shu was on-the-run as a wanted man. The closer the team was to the real motive, the more Mu Le remembered his past. The course of events eventually led to him stealing the artifact himself and escaping to another country. Yuan An, Lan Zhi and Princess Ming Hui tried to track him down, but they soon discovered they are up against a conspiracy that is bigger than a mere case of stolen artifact.
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In the realm of television, a blend of mystery, romance, and historical drama often creates a concoction that’s hard to resist. “An Oriental Odyssey” (2018), a Chinese television series, stands as a testament to this blend, offering viewers a journey through ancient China with a narrative that intertwines the supernatural with human emotions and the quest for justice. This series, based on the novel “The Strange Cases of Magistrate Ye,” dives into the adventures of Ye Yuan An, a strong-willed and courageous woman who finds herself embroiled in a series of mysterious cases in the Tang Dynasty.
The Setting and Plot
“An Oriental Odyssey” unfolds during the Tang Dynasty, one of China’s most prosperous and culturally rich periods. The show does an excellent job of immersing viewers in this era, not just through its storyline but also through its detailed costumes, settings, and customs. The plot centers around Ye Yuan An (played by Wu Qian), the daughter of a wealthy merchant, who dreams of a life beyond the confines of her expected societal role. Her path crosses with Zhao Lan Zhi (played by Zheng Ye Cheng), a dedicated and upright magistrate, and Mu Le (played by Zhang Yu Jian), a man with no memory of his past but possesses unusual abilities. Together, they solve various supernatural mysteries, uncovering deeper plots and secrets that threaten the peace of the dynasty.
Characters and Relationships
Ye Yuan An
Ye Yuan An is not your typical damsel in distress. She’s headstrong, skilled in martial arts, and possesses a keen sense of justice. Her character breaks the mold of traditional female roles in historical dramas, making her a refreshing and relatable protagonist. Her journey is not just about solving mysteries but also about self-discovery and challenging societal norms.
Zhao Lan Zhi
Zhao Lan Zhi, the magistrate, is the embodiment of dedication and righteousness. His initial encounters with Yuan An are rocky, but as they collaborate on various cases, a deep respect and affection develop between them. Lan Zhi’s character provides a steady moral compass throughout the series, often highlighting the themes of justice and duty.
Mu Le
Mu Le is a mystery wrapped in an enigma. With no memory of his past and possessing strange powers, his character adds a layer of intrigue to the series. His loyalty to Yuan An and his gradual uncovering of his identity are pivotal to the plot, making his journey one of the most compelling aspects of the show.
The Mysteries and Supernatural Elements
At its core, “An Oriental Odyssey” is a series of mysteries, each episode unraveling a new case often rooted in the supernatural. From ghosts and spirits to ancient curses, the show does not shy away from delving into the fantastical. However, what sets it apart is how these elements are grounded in human emotions and motivations. The supernatural serves as a backdrop to explore themes of love, loss, greed, and the quest for power.
Cultural and Historical Richness
One of the show’s strengths is its commitment to historical accuracy and cultural richness. The Tang Dynasty was known for its openness to foreign cultures, advancements in arts, and a thriving cosmopolitan capital. “An Oriental Odyssey” captures this essence through its detailed costumes, architecture, and customs. It offers viewers a glimpse into the daily life of the era, from the bustling markets to the grandeur of the imperial court.
Criticisms and Praise
No show is without its flaws, and “An Oriental Odyssey” is no exception. Some viewers have pointed out the occasional pacing issues and the use of certain CGI elements that seem out of place. However, these criticisms are often overshadowed by the praise for the series’ storytelling, character development, and production values. The chemistry between the leads and the blend of humor, romance, and mystery keep the audience engaged and invested in the characters’ journeys.
Conclusion
“An Oriental Odyssey” offers a captivating blend of mystery, romance, and historical drama set against the backdrop of one of China’s most fascinating dynasties. It’s a show that goes beyond the surface, exploring complex characters and themes while providing a visually stunning portrayal of ancient China. Whether you’re a fan of historical dramas, supernatural mysteries, or just looking for a series with strong, relatable characters, “An Oriental Odyssey” is worth watching. Its ability to weave together various elements into a coherent and engaging narrative makes it a standout in the genre.