As a dedicated fan of heart-stirring BL (Boy’s Love) Donghua, I can confidently say that when it comes to recommendations, few titles resonate as deeply as “Mo Dao Zu Shi,” or “Master of Diabolism.” This captivating tale revolves around the profound connection between Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian, a love story that unfolds over nearly two decades.
Interestingly, the Donghua adaptation of “Mo Dao Zu Shi” is derived from the Chinese Light Novels of the same name. Some fans might be curious as to why this television interpretation seems less steamy compared to the source material. Well, it’s essential to remember that cultural norms and broadcasting standards can significantly influence the adaptation process, leading to certain modifications in the content presented on screen.
Chinese light novels have emerged as a vibrant platform for exploring queer romances, offering readers a refreshing change from the well-worn tropes and “romantasy” feel often found in English LGBTQA+ literature. Titles like Mo Dao Zu Shi epitomize this trend, delivering an intricate tapestry of storylines centered around the blossoming relationship between its main characters. This engaging narrative has allowed the animated adaptation to flourish, even in the absence of some overt romantic elements from the original light novels.
Are Wei Ying and Lan Zahn Canon in the Donghua?
In analyzing the issues arising from the breakdown, it’s crucial to address the nature of Lan Zhan and Wei Ying’s relationship. Although their romantic involvement is evident in the source materials like Light Novels and graphic novels, this aspect isn’t as apparent in the animated series. However, despite minimal overt physical interaction or open flirting, they are recognized as a canonical couple within the storyline.
It’s possible that Wei Ying may appear confusing, given that he expresses dislike for men in the anime and light novels prior to his relationship with Lan Zhan. However, this development can be understood as part of his self-discovery process. Although he makes these statements, it’s worth noting that he never pursues romantic relationships with female characters. Instead, he seems to form stronger bonds with women, particularly in his youth, suggesting a more feminine romantic expression. This characteristic gives him an endearing and innocent sweetness, especially during the early stages of the series.
In the animated series Donghua, the bond between characters is subtly portrayed through symbolism, dialogue, and tactfully positioned gestures that aren’t overtly sensual, as the creators delicately suggest their relationship.
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So Where Are the Anime Kisses?
It could come as a shock to some that Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian don’t share a kiss in the animated series, given how steamy their relationships are depicted in the novels. However, such explicit scenes would be unacceptable for any television broadcasts under Chinese censorship regulations.
In China, it’s forbidden to portray two male characters in a romantic light through visual means. As a result, when adapting the Donghua version, creators needed to find alternative methods to convey the deep bond between the main characters without infringing on such laws.
In a less formal context, these laws governing storytelling are less stringent for genres like Light Novels and various other media types. This flexibility opens up more opportunities to craft unique narratives. Consequently, numerous BL Donghua are based on novels that have gained popularity within online communities. Examples of this trend can be found in series such as Mo Dao Zu Shi and Heaven Official’s Blessing, along with many others.
How the Mo Dao Zu Shi Donghua Gets Around Censorship Laws
Although it’s disappointing that a romantic kiss between Lan Zhan and Wei Ying isn’t shown in the anime, the producers compensate by creating touching scenes that effectively convey their strong bond. This is mainly because of the rich storytelling found in the original Light Novels, which provide depth to both characters and the overall plot, not solely relying on their relationship for interest.
The narrative consistently portrays Lan Zhan’s growing affection towards Wei Ying, evident from their initial meeting. He becomes flustered, agitated, and even intentionally distances himself to keep from drawing nearer to the latter. As they mature, Lan Zhan’s feelings for Wei Ying transform into a profound loyalty and guardianship, particularly noticeable when Wei Ying assumes the role of the Yiling Patriarch following his transfer of the Golden Core to Jiang Cheng.
With emotional phrases uttered by Lan Zhan like “Come back to Gusu”, a kiss isn’t even needed.
Wei Wuxian’s affection for Lan Wangji is unique because Wei Wuxian tends to express his feelings more through physical actions and displays of affection. Throughout the Donghua series, it becomes evident that Wei Wuxian frequently thinks about Lan Wangji and even incorporates a song Lan Wangji sang to him during a significant childhood moment into his subconscious thoughts, demonstrating the deep imprint Lan Wangji has left on him.
In subsequent sequences, Wei Wuxian frequently seeks solace in Lan Wangji, clinging to him when pursued by dogs and playfully disturbing his distinctive white forehead ribbon. This ribbon holds significant meaning as a symbol of purity and self-restraint that can only be touched by the wearer’s “destined partner”. Wei Wuxian’s repeated handling of the ribbon subtly emphasizes their connection, without requiring explicit explanation.
Alongside the poignant instances, key sequences such as when Wei Wuxian takes control of a puppet in the anime serve as significant symbols. In one pivotal scene from the final season, Wei Wuxian transforms into a small paper puppet and approaches Lan Wangji. As he deliberately touches Lan Wangji’s lips, Lan Wangji responds by gently cleaning a smudge from the flushed puppet’s face. This touching moment, while seemingly innocent given it involves a puppet rather than Wei Wuxian himself, carries an undercurrent of affection.
It is revealed that following Wei Wuxian’s demise, Lan Wangji ventured to the site where he passed away in a determined search for his remains. Surprisingly, instead, he encountered the young boy who was Wei Wuxian, and chose to nurture him at home. As a result, both Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian became the fathers of the character Lan Suzhui.
Romance Doesn’t Need to Be Hallmark to Be Real
It’s intriguing to note how deeply moving and character-driven stories can be told in BL Anime (Donghua), even without explicit content, through the use of subtle nuances like tone of voice or intentional actions by characters. In today’s ‘spice’-focused world where the maturity level is often used to evaluate romance narratives, these anime series seem to defy the notion that more mature content automatically equates to a superior love story.
Observing “Mo Dao Zu Shi,” the bond between Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji is intricately woven. Each deliberate action or dialogue exchange intensifies their connection, rendering their affection convincing and intense beyond any kiss. This emphasis also underscores the depth of their individual characters, thereby enhancing the narrative’s immersive and thrilling quality for audiences.
One captivating aspect of the Mo Dao Zu Shi anime lies in its ability to make you feel as though they’ve already kissed, even when they don’t. In scenes where they play music or cast spells together, or Lan Wangji cradles Wei Wuxian protectively amidst danger, it becomes evident that these characters share an extraordinary bond – a connection that this delicate narrative has skillfully forged.
In the final moments of the Donghua series, a significant scene often overlooked occurs. Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji engage in a fierce battle against the clans during the second siege of the Burial Mounds. Within a hidden cave, they stand guard over a small group of juniors, including their adopted son and Wei Wuxian’s nephew. In a remarkable display of their cultivation abilities, Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian summon the power from the blood pool at the heart of the cave, causing their clothing to momentarily turn a deep crimson hue.
In Chinese tradition, the color red is significant in wedding attire as it represents joy, prosperity, and harmony. In these fictional stories, the couple gets married and there are official illustrations depicting them both dressed in red wedding garments. In this animated series, this scene signifies their mutual decision to join forces as cultivation partners, an alternative term for matrimony.
Intriguingly, I witnessed a heartwarming tale unfold within the frames of Donghua, where two captivating characters embarked upon an ardent journey of love. Remarkably, not a single kiss was exchanged, yet their bond grew so profoundly that it led them to what appeared to be a lifelong commitment, hinting at a marriage.
Mo Dao Zu Shi, beyond being a Boys’ Love story or an adaptation from Light Novels, is a profoundly moving and insightful exploration of love’s manifestation, showcasing the lengths two souls will go to remain together, even amidst the chaos of a crumbling world. Despite China’s censorship challenges, it’s heartening to witness such captivating narratives emerge. The emphasis on emotional nuances in the romance transcends mere lip service during action sequences, imbuing the story with a unique charm and depth that elevates it above the ordinary.
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2025-06-12 03:11