Mysterious Lotus Casebook (2023)

「一起查破天下奇案，匡正江湖 」A spectacular summer drama that exceeds expectations

REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS

Highly anticipated drama---and happy to say it matched my expectations. I've been waiting for the release of Mysterious Lotus Casebook ever since the cast was revealed and they began filming.
I want to share my thoughts about this drama as someone who's never read the original novel (but plan to).

Some notable things to point out:

1. The pacing of MLC: Since Li LianHua was introduced as a character concealing his true identity, it may be expected that the storyline will drag out the big reveal until way later. However, the pacing of this drama felt opportune; not rushed but also not dragged out. While Fang DuoBing had suspected LLH being Li XiangYi, the moment he confirmed this notion was when LLH finally used his power to defend FDB in ep. 27. I appreciate every detail written into the individual cases that weave together into the larger picture of their final mission.

2. The open ending: To me, it doesn't make sense how the "alternate/extra" ending was locked behind a paid content on iQiYi. I was expecting to see a more conclusive resolution, yet was left with an almost dialogue-less extra episode. This leaves me to believe that, when DFS and FDB arrived at the beach where LLH was, they left together to roam JiangHu together and continue to look for a cure, since the camera panned out to all three of them gone. I saw some comments saying it was the two's illusion, since it was already 3 months past and LLH should've died. This could make sense, since there was actually no explanation of how DFS and FDB found LLH or how they showed up in sync, but I would like to believe in a happy ending. In my opinion, the scene at the end of ep. 38, where all three of them walks off together, would be the "perfect" ending. The ending definitely left many questions for the audience to ponder and solve with imagination.

3. Casting/acting: Partly why I was waiting for this drama with such anticipation was because I watched ChengYi's (LLH/LXY) spectacular acting in both Love and Redemption and his episode on "Happy Camp." I held high expectations and yet his performance proved far beyond. Even when little to no words are spoken, his eyes tell so much---the sadness, the determination, the tenderness, the anger---all told through a crafted stare. He's also undoubtedly a master in this kind of wuxia sword fight/footwork combined. I also found Zeng ShunXi (FDB) though Ultimate Note, where he played Wuxie, and was needless to say very excited for his new performance. The youthfulness, naivety, and the unwavering sense moral idealism of FDB was portrayed perfectly by ZSX, and the audience got to experience his growth through his journey, even giving up the position he worked so hard for for someone he loved. ZSX brought FDB to life. DFS also never failed to deliver his sense of high dignity and position of power all while showing his "human" side, especially when interacting with FDB (they're so silly) <3. Some characters, notably Xiao ZiJin, Qiao WanMian, and Yun Bi Qiu (mildly) annoyed me but nevertheless their actors still did an amazing job!

4. Jiao LiQiao: Contrary to what many might feel about her, I love the way her character was portrayed. Instead of forever staying under Di FeiSheng, she decided to flip their positions when she realized DFS will never behave in her favor. The actress's also portrayed JLQ's cunning character perfectly, from her sharp smile to the way she laughs. Honestly she was so psychotic to the point where I love her. It was also perfectly ironic how her life "began" when DFS saved her ten years ago, but it was also ended by the same man in their marriage chamber.

5. FDB's mother: I love the character of FDB's mother!! Oftentimes in Chinese costume dramas, the mother of the main leads are often written as one of the two: evil, or soft. However, FDB's mother is an actual badass character! I adored her determination, her love for her son, and how she didn't want FDB to get involved with JiangHu but still supported him. She was headstrong and never backed down---also loved her and her son's interactions!

Overall, this is definitely one of my top 3 dramas, with thoroughly thought-out details in each of the cases, perfectly portrayed characters, and beautiful cinematography and script-writing. My biggest criticism would be the ending (I feel like I paid to watch an unfulfilling extra ending and the behind-the-scene on iQiYi and it wasn't that worth, but I also heard the novel ending was even more open and thus I will say I'm satisfied with what the drama production team gave us). I'm already planning on rewatching Mysterious Lotus Casebook, and I definitely recommend anyone who loves mysteries/case-solving, JiangHu brotherhood, and wuxia fighting to give this masterpiece a watch!

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Have you ever seen such a bond stronger than this? Have you ever seen a drama as good as this?

I was so drawn and inspired by the positive comments about the drama that I wanted to be a part of the experience. This is my first time actually leaving a comment on MDL, and I’m so excited that MLC will be my first drama so please go easy on me.
MLC was in one word exceptional; from the acting, the story, the fight scenes, scenery, and music. Completely phenomenal. And I don’t say this lightly, because dramas with so many episodes always have me worried that I’ll start losing interest and never make it to the end, but that was not the case with MLC. I was hooked after LLH first smirk, although the intro fight was great b/t LXY and DFS as well. I’m a huge fan of mystery dramas and the way the cases were investigated and solved for one big giant plot was nicely done. The crime-solving duo of LLH and FDB was an added bonus reminding me of Sherlock & Watson.

Plot: A lone young hero who was a legend and brought the martial world to a common stand fought against an adversary responsible for his senior’s death. The battle was fierce as the seas raged and danced against the boat, one fighting to seek justice and the other to see who’s the best. But a winner was not decided that night as both fell into the sea injured and never seen again. The martial world became chaotic without the young hero, and time eventually forgotten his importance until 10 years later the martial world will be shaken once again with cases, conspiracies, betrayal, and twists no one would see coming. A doctor living a carefree life by the name Li Lianhua who’s searching for someone finds himself reluctantly in the mist of the chaos, no thanks to a young detective named Fang Duobing that drags him into case after case. The cases they solve seems to connects the past to the present, and with Di Fei Sheng alive the martial world may just once again need a hero, but can a dead hero save the martial world unless maybe he’s not dead. And is Di Fei Sheng the only threat?

One thing I definitely want to point out is the enjoyable writing of the story, the dialogues between the 3 male leads was really good. You never knew what to expect from them b/t DFS dry humor, FDB gullible/innocence, LLH sarcastic wittiness. And the women characters were written very well showcasing them strong and capable including JLQ. There were sprinkled hints of romance, but it neither overpowered/ ruined the drama. Although it was sad to see them fall in love with a dying man, even I couldn’t resist his charm and “I’m not easy to sway” (quoting my friends on that).

As for the bromance OMG don’t get me started ?. When I started the drama, I was on the LLH and DFS hinted close bond band wagon excited to see their interactions with each other especially with LLH in a bride dress getting picked on by DFS and FDB, and then LLH and DFS sharing wine in the wedding chamber teasing BL fans, because FDB came off as more of a child and them seeming like his parents if that makes any type of sense. Gradually though my feelings of that changed I enjoyed LLH and FDB interactions the most throughout the drama and even went back to pay more attention to their interactions. And the little subtle teases they gave BL fans with FDB waking up to LLH face so close, FDB getting upset that LLH and A Fei shared a secret, that LLH chose to skip their moon date for the woman, and even going as far to question how did LLH get drugged (quickly admitting he just drunk from the same cup as the princess and nothing more). Then there’s the always running from the marriage and its always away with LLH?, getting angry when LLH tells him maybe he should settle down, and the verbal declaration FDB has said many times over in the drama “I can go where you go, where would you like to go?” FDB is always planning their future together. Even FDB’s mother pretty much outs him in front of LLH saying how FDB talks about him a lot and praises LLH, even going as far to quote FDB “didn’t you say you found a bosom friend in life, and it was worth traveling to the martial world. You said you only wished to travel with him again.” They even have pet names “old fox and young fox” lol, or all the touching FDB boldly does and let’s not forget LLH gave FDB a piece of candy. Of course that doesn’t seem like much, but the only other person he has given candy to was QWM. Hint Hint anyways dialing back the fangirling……..

I loved how they showed that no matter the difference in how long you’ve known someone it doesn’t mean a newer friendship couldn’t be just as strong. LLH was one of the most lovable characters I’ve seen in awhile, he was sarcastic, strong, smart, humble, loyal and extremely kind that it was no wonder he had friends old and new. And the bonds that connected LLH to others varied. The Sigu Sect believed in and respected him, SXY trusted and liked him, ZYF was loyal to him (honoring a 10yr old bet even though LXY had supposedly been dead). As for DFS and FDB, it’s a lot more behind the bonds they share with LLH. Mind you I still haven’t had a chance to read the novel so these are just my thoughts based off the drama, I’m aware that the 3 male leads are supposed to have tight bond but definitely see one bond stronger than the other:

LLH, FDB, and DFS share a few things in common, that connects through their bond. Besides all been handsome men ?They are all orphans, they aspired to be the best in the martial world, and stood by code that believed in. LLH and FDB were just and DFS although rougher never harm women and children (which he admits in one of the last 2 episodes). All were betrayed by SDG be it emotionally or physically.

FDB and DFS have come to an understanding of respect, and can both agree on how they both want LLH to live. FDB realized that DFS isn’t as bad as he seems especially when he shows concern for DFS well being when he faints, and DFS even shows concern ask LLH shouldn’t he check on FDB after SDG is killed.

There has been many times in the drama where they show DFS being a little crazy when it came to LLH, pointed out by JLQ alot and yes it comes off a bit obsessive times, it wasn’t because of some crazy love for LLH but an admiration of skills. Which DFS pretty much tells JLQ himself, that he hates her because she was a hateful person nothing more than tat. Had she been more supportive of DFS dream of wanting to stand at the top of the martial world and allowing DFS and LLH a fair fight he would not have disregarded her with such contempt. After all he did once save her, so he had to have cared for her at one point, but she just didn’t understand DFS as well as she thought and her herself turned into a stalkerish crazy b$#@#.

As for DFS and LLH, they shared experiences together that gave them a certain understanding and respect for each other. And although DFS wasn’t trying to kill LLH anymore and seemed to only want a fair rematch, he still saw him as LXY (his rival) and only ever referred to him as LLH due to agreement they had made. While LLH had already let go of the past and told him that he would not be capable of fulfilling his wish. As told countless times through the drama, showing LLH as a person trying to tell a friend you need to let this go. The drink they share in the wedding chamber is literally their first acknowledgment of a truce and being a kindred spirit. And again LLH trying to steer his new friend on a different path of forgetting to have a rematch, because he would not get one. But what can you do DFS is a stubborn kind of guy, very strong willed. It was nice how both stated the facts out loud admitting they’d never expected to be fighting on the same side let alone friends, but they are. Even if it took DFS a much longer time to admit that than LLH. More proof of their friendship is when shown through FDB pointing out that DFS gave up his dream ( which I need to rewatch and learn) to keep LLH (though again to have a rematch fair and square) alive by giving him the Stynx flower and when DFS at the end of the drama says they’ll be no one to replace LXY after he hears the letter that’s pretty much addressed to him as LLH admits to admiring DFS skills, I knew he was a big softie. I want to point out that the letter was signed LXY this and the broken sword was to tell DFS that LXY is really dead this time and he should move on from the past like he learned to do. Which brings me to my favorite bond ? FDB and LLH.

FDB starts off as somewhat a spoiled kid, but kind and just. And if DFS is stubborn FDB is ten times that easily attaching himself to LLH claiming him to be his first friend which was very cute in itself, b/t their age difference. While LLH and DFS had shared experiences together, FDB actually experienced things with LLH. These two journeyed and grew together though most is on FDB end becoming more competent, a better fighter and independent. While LLH actually learned that even though you need to let go of the past to enjoy the present it doesn’t mean you have to enjoy it alone. But what I truly love about these two is the care they show for each other. I feel like in almost every episode starting after episode 4 FDB is asking if LLH is okay with those big puppy eyes (even when he was angry with LLH he still cared and when his mother talked bad about LXY he tried to get her to stop talking). LLH shows his care through protecting FDB and trying to always avoid questions that talk about the future because he doesn’t want to hurt FDB (since he knew he was dying) as DFS pointed out once. Which is another difference b/t LLH, FDB, and DSF bond; LLH ad no trouble telling DFS that he wouldn’t get his rematch whereas he was always troubled when FDB spoke of their future adventures and cases. LLH also showed his care by verbally announcing FDB as his best friend. More care is shown between the two when FDB says he realizes that LLH had been mixing truth within in his lies showing that LLH didn’t want to outright lie to FDB, but to not have him grow so attach because he knew how much pain it’ll cause in the end. In the very last 2 episodes it showed just how important FBD was to LLH. From the moment LLH bargains with the emperor to not only save FBD’s father but to even release him from the marriage so he can do what he wants. Then there’s the solo practice scene LLH does where he sees DFS and his master, you would think why doesn’t he see FDB, but then you realize he doesn’t have to envision FDB because he’s always by his side.

FDB has the strongest bond with LLH because he’s the only one who sees both sides of LLH/LXY, which LLH acknowledges when he tells FDB that if LXY knew someone understood him 10 years later he would be happy. And how even though FDB knows that LLH is LXY he still calls him LLH because he knows that is who LLH is now; just a carefree doctor who wants to fish and sunbathe. FDB is the only one who has seen LLH at his weakest and the only one who was comforting and trying to support him; telling LLH that it wasn’t his fault with SDG and that he shouldn’t carry such a weight by himself. His support goes even farther from literally carrying LLH to his master’s mountain to him accepting that LLH feels he must right the wrong SDG has caused and helping him do so. When FDB gets jealous every time LLH met an old acquaintance he was so adorable realizing there are things he doesn’t know about LLH. And the sadness you feel from him when he’s left behind by LLH every time is so sweet. Especially episode 13 where he says “Fang Duobing, Fang Duobing, are you abandoned again” abandoned seems such a strong word to use which shows just how important the issue was to FDB and how he lights back up when he sees LLH has not. No one wanted LLH to live as much as FDB, and LLH saying he was happy to have him as his disciple just made my heart melt. At first I was a little sad that LLH didn’t leave a letter for FDB, but I think that’s because he was the only one he didn’t want to say goodbye to and maybe even hoped.would possibly find him. I mean after all he left him Fox Spirt and the house, what’s not to say Fox spirit sniffs him out and finds him lol. And the letter was to just provide closure for DFS to move on, and to let the Sigu Sect and DFS know that FDB is strong and will probably surpass him someday. Plus LLH pretty much knew it was pointless to say goodbye to FDB because as I stated he is very stubborn and he wouldn’t have accepted it either way. FDB proved this by storming off the beach stating he’s going to go find LLH while everyone just stood there dumbfounded and sad, because to him LXY may be dead( due to not being able to practice martial arts) but that sarcastic lazy doctor LLH was definitely alive. Before DFS brings the flower, FDB sits with LLH chatting about the future showing that even if LLH is to die FDB plans on accompanying him to the end. FDB has so much love and respect for LLH proof in his words “I FDB accept only you as my confidant in this life” , that he’ll probably search forever for LLH until something of him was found which they happily provided in a bonus episode. And if that’s not enough proof the touching music played through their scenes is something that provides understanding of just how close they are or the words to one of the songs “Gathering and parting happens in a blinking eye, We share our affectionate words as we watch the moon, I only hope we think of each other and not owe other. ( I did think at first that this was probably for both FDB and DFS, but DFS and LLH only shared wine under the moon once, while FDB and LLH shared it a couple of times they even moon watched together and why play that music around FDB scene)

Ending: Was I sad yes, but I prepared myself for that. LLH held many things upon his shoulders and his only mission was to recover the body of his senior who pretty much was a jackass who envy LLH and turned out to just not her stupid crazed villain. Although I guess I would have gone crazy to if comparing myself to LXY/LHH, he had the looks, respect, skills, leadership, and then on top of that he was royalty man o man. Anyways LLH never once stated or made the effort that he was looking for a cure for himself, he just enjoyed the carefree life he acquired for 10years and finally came to understand what his master was trying to teach him. So since he was ready for death and let everything go so did I. I think the only thing I would have wanted to change about the ending was not him being cured, but more of LLH trying to sneakily leave FDB behind and FDB already ready to leave with him, and then add on maybe DFS not that far behind because he still wants his rematch.

I think I’ve said too much (rookie commenter here) so I’ll end it here with: Thank you Cheng Yi, Joseph Zeno, Xiao Shun Yao, and all the cast for a wonderful drama. It’ll take me awhile to move on to something else ?till then I’ll just rewatch it all over again. Good luck in your next drama.

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MLC will make you smile a lot :)

When i saw the trailers, i thought wow, heavy detective theme and spooky ?

But right after watching some episodes, it turns out to be light comedy, refreshing and funny ???

What amazed me is they were managed to add natural funny elements just within serious cases. Never watch a detective drama like this before, i smile and laugh alot ?

Stories are very interesting and interconnected each other and to the main plot. It teaches us a lot about letting go.

How LXY as number one martial art hero in the world, letting go everything and become LLH a simple man with carefree life. It very relate with our own life, where actually lots of things need to be let go.

Cases are like agatha christy novel style where there are so many suspects and twists in the end.

Martial art scenes are very aesthetic and artistic. Li Xiang Yi (Cheng Yi) is like dancing with his sword.

Acting is top notch. Cheng Yi never disappoint us. 99.9% people agree that he has unique face, eyes and acting skill that can express from funny, sad to villain.

Joseph and Aero + other casts are all also very good in acting and suitable to their roles = perfect cast.

99% people who were at first hesitant to start watching because of no romance, turn out to love MLC even more than their favorite romance dramas ?

All the reviews everywhere are very positive, even MLC page in MDL is the most peaceful page in MDL ? why? Because no debate at all, everyone just surprised how refreshing MLC is.

Overall i would say, this is a worth watching, unique and funny detective drama that we will never find anywhere else and may only happen once in many years.

So, happy watching new watchers, i can guarantee that you will smile alot with our trio main leads ??

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Excellent development of the Brotherhood and Interesting Mysterious Cases. Love Cheng Yi!

Amidst a sea of not-so-good romantic xianxias and period dramas, “Mysterious Lotus Casebook '' is a breath of fresh air. Despite being a romance junkie, the brotherhood between our three main characters reminded me that I don’t always need romance in a drama. This drama has excellent casting, acting, pacing, storytelling with interesting mysterious cases and some pretty good action scenes.


Casting/Acting
Isn’t it nice to cast actors who play characters their age and act their age? In the drama, Li Lian Hua and Di Fei Sheng are both in their early 30s, and they are played by Cheng Yi (33) and Xiao Shu Yao (35). Joseph Zeng (25) plays a younger Fan Duo Bing who is in his 20s. Just because of this, the drama gets a big thumbs up from me. The three male leads act their age and exudes the necessary aura of either someone wise or inexperienced. They are really well-casted and I can’t imagine other actors playing these roles. I have to say I am very impressed with Chen Yi. We have all seen him spitting blood (he does that in this drama as well) and playing the angsty romantic male lead. Who knew he could play a sly and sarcastic fallen hero so well! Xiao Shun Yao’s tall frame and broad shoulders exude that cold brutalness and reminded me a little of his gray character in “The Blue Whispers”. Joseph Zeng’s big eyes brought out the youthfulness and inexperience of Fang Duo Bing. “Mysterious Lotus Casebook” has a large supporting cast of veterans and younger actors. No one stands out like a sore thumb and no character irritates or annoys me. I quite like the female villain and found her beautiful and manic!

Mysterious Cases
There are several mysterious cases and they all contribute to the bigger plot/mystery of the drama. I like that they are not episodic and are allowed enough time to develop and to be solved. The cases are interesting to me, more so than those in “Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty”. Although I was never anxious enough to be at the edge of my seat, they generally keep me engaged. There are so many details that I can’t really not pay attention. I was dozing off (not the drama’s fault, I was just tired) and had to rewind the scenes as I realized I was missing pieces of information to follow along. I also enjoy the mid-episode graphics and follow along the Lotus Tower to different locations. I realized I didn’t even take that many notes for my reviews while watching, because I was following along.

The Brotherhood
Excellent! It was so much fun seeing how the friendship develops between the three male characters. Their scenes are sprinkled with humor (and not second-hand embarrassment humor), thoughtful/caring conversations and understanding of each other’s words and actions. It is quite beautiful to see how each relationship continues to build throughout the drama - from strangers, idol, enemies to friends, frenemies, and soulmates.

Romance
Don’t watch this drama for romance because you will be sorely disappointed. I am actually fine with the small romantic plot of Li Xiang Yi and his ex-girlfriend, Di Fei Sheng and the obsessed villain, and even the very small one of Fan Duo Bing and the princess. But having Su Xiao Yong’s affection for Li Lian Hua is unnecessary. She has such a small role that it seems like her sole existence is to do household chores, be an interpreter and grandfather’s messenger, and act as a medical assistant to get help from a doctor. There are no lovey-dovey cute scenes and no skinship at all. But you know what, you really don’t need any big romance plot because there’s enough to keep you engaged.

Action Scenes
There are enough action scenes scattered throughout the drama to keep us wuxia fans satiated. I am glad the drama does not skim out on the big fight with the villains in the end. The action scenes are pretty good, but not to the traditional wuxia standards like in “Side Story of Fox Volant”. I wanted more close combat sword fighting scenes, instead of people getting thrown across the room, with a palm push or a sword swing. I want to especially commend Chen Yi. I never realized what a beautiful fighter he is. There are actors who fight hard and have the physique to do so. There are others who fight like they are dancing or not know what to do with a sword. But Chen Yi’s fight scenes are beautiful to watch. He has a skinnier frame and fights like he’s floating in the air (great wire work from him!) yet he doesn’t fight weakly. It’s a very nice combination of elegance and quiet strength.

Production Quality
It’s so great that the three main male leads are dubbing themselves. Though not often, I do think there are some live recordings from Chen Yi. But the supporting cast seems to all be dubbed by voice actors. The production quality is pretty decent. The costumes, sets, props and ornaments all look decent (not exquisite). CGI and music/songs are minimal. I don’t actually remember any songs played. There’s a dance performed by a male dancer/actor during one of the cases, and that performance is unique and beautifully danced.


Overall, I strongly recommend this drama, especially if you enjoy mysterious cases and are fans of the three male leads. I really don’t have any major criticism of the drama. I liked Chen Yi when he was in “Love and Redemption” but I think I became a fan after his role here in “Mysterious Lotus Casebook”.


Completed: 8/13/2023 - Review #339

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Best costume drama of 2023!!!

Plot and storyline holds attention to the end. No lovey dovey romance but a drama based on integrity, loyalty, resilience and selflessness. Certainly comes close to Nirvana in Fire 1 on the list of being a top notch drama excellently executed by the cast and cinematography.

The fighting scenes were beautifully choreographed - graceful, smooth and swift.

Great chemistry between the 3 main leads. Cheng Yi's non-verbal communication in this drama is outstanding. His portrayal of Li Xiang Yi and Li Lian Hua is on spot. I have watched many of Cheng Yi's dramas and this is by far the best. He was very good in Love and Redemption but I like the more realistic plot of Mysterious Lotus Casebook better.

Joseph Zheng plays the wide-eyed, young and still growing Fang Duo Bing/Fang Xiao Bao well. His antics and combined with Cheng Yi's character Li Lian Hua added a touch of humour to the drama which was most pleasing.

Aero Xiao also played Di Fei Sheng wonderfully. He appears mean and tough on the outside and actually has a motive that is kind on the inside. He appreciates his opponent Li XiangYi and learns to care for Li Lian Hua as they experience trials and tribulations together.

All in all, a drama worth the time if you like Wuxia dramas.

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Best Brotherhood detective Wuxia drama in 2023

I was waiting for this drama since it was shot a year ago, I'm a fan of Cheng Yi and Joseph Zhang's dramas I follow the news about dramas they are shooting and since the shooting of this drama it showed so much potential The bromance, friendship, care, martial arts, and also the Angst that Cheng Yi brings to each of his dramas
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when it started airing this drama I had very high hopes and for the first time never disappointed actually, It surpassed my expectations because the plot is very well written with no fillers or annoying romantic relationships even the romantic backstory was short and concise which amazed me and surprised me the most is Cheng Yi's real voice, I've heard it before in interviews or immortal samsara drama but never enjoyed it as much as here
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his character was so vibrant, so sarcastic sometimes I've never seen him in such a character before I had so much fun watching him being this sarcastic character who keeps ditching his disciple to protect him every funny episode from the first half of the drama was so much entertaining and joyful to watch and it has a strong story to back it up not just funny for the sake of some laughs
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FDB and DFS (Joseph and Xiao ) did a great job Pickering with each other, the opposites of characters yet they care about the hero the only friend for them Li Xiang Yi they showed so much care and playfulness to their characters I really can't say anything bad about this drama because there is nothing bad about it at all
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I wasn't bored for one second, I loved every character, even the villains were fun to watch The martial arts fights were more like dances, beautiful well-played dances, they were really spectacular agree with Joseph when he said to Cheng Yi what you did in those sword fights is something that no one can repeat
If you like Brotherhood, male friendship, detective genera, martial arts, and wuxia fights you will fall in love with this drama can't move on since I finished it and I will probably watch it again and again WELL DONE AND WELL EXECUTED WUXIA BROMANCE DRAMV

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Crouching Lianhua, Hidden Xiangyi

Who are you ... and who do you want to be? The question of identity is the driving force behind the motivations of the characters and the story. It's also the key attribute that made this show a very enjoyable watch. Mysterious Lotus Casebook (MLC) stuck to a clear identity. It's a bromantic (no BL) adventure seasoned with humor, intrigue, and heartfelt moments. While this may not sound like such a revolutionary concept, MLC deserves praise as much for delivering on that setup as for what it didn't do‒sabotaging the story with aneurism-inducing fillers and hackneyed tropes.

**Ex-Sective Summary** (for the Sect Leaders busy plotting Jianghu conspiracies or watering veggie garden):

--Why you should watch:
1) interesting, likeable, and consistent main characters with decent casting and acting;
2) Intriguing story, flowing pace, polished production, and steady tenor/mood;
3) solid bro-mistry and no hos to come before/between them. Seriously, if you are grossed out by all the gratuitous romance derailing otherwise reasonable plots, this shows steers clear of it.
4) But even if you are a romance-junkie, you will still love it, as demonstrated by the numerous testimonials in comments and reviews ... and because you're a Bossbabe that needs no romance.
5) Steady diet of wuxia action not sullied by horrendous CGI or amateurish choreography.

--Why you shouldn't watch:
1) You are a romance-zombie that must MUST feed on the brains of hetero lovers. Or innocent bromance just doesn't quite scratch your BL fujioshi itch.
2) You love procedurals and actually want to watch for the case-solving. They are not the core of this show, but mostly just serve as plot device.
3) You want NiF level strategy/plot, Joy of Life level (for native speaker) humor, or classic Wuxia style fighting. Sorry MLC will likely fall short.

All in all, this is fun, easy watch that most audiences of this site will enjoy, even if this isn't your typical genre.

PS: I may return later for a deeper dive into why this drama is more Li Lianhua than Li Xiangyi. And if you think my scoring is too low, just add +2 to please your soul.

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best storyline ever

the detective journey in traditional costumes. The great story and directing skills. the actors and actresses and all crew must be so proud of this masterpice series.
Deep and continuing story with some plot twists. The plot made me full of curiosity what the next case will be.
Hows the relationship among characters.

The make up artists did very well.
no lack nor too much.
Li Xiangyi looks confident and healthy, while Li Lianhua looks weak, sick, and pale, yet Chengyi still looks georgeous.
The hairstylist and wardrobe team also did well. All actors and actresses look pretty.
The costumes doesnt look too luxury yet looks elegant and modest.

The director and cameramen knew the best angle for each actors/actresses to look pretty also during action scenes.

The scriptwiter is great to have imagination and connect all stories. The plot twist is so fun and hard to be guessed.

This drama should be promoted to global platform so everybody could access and enjoy it.
have fun,

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A delightful story about making peace with the hand that has been dealt + some detective drama

When you have a show that treats its supporting characters with dignity, respect and decent characterization, you know you got a good show in your hands.

Mysterious lotus casebook does this pretty well - not always, but the smaller characters when come for a 2-3 episode arc, do get enough plot to be impactful in that arc. There are some moments, characterizations, arcs that stood out for me, personally. I don't care much about music, CGI, fight choreography or even production quality. As long as there is good story, good acting and chemistry between the leads.

1. Director Di / A-Fei - He wants to beat LLH honestly and honorably. Even though LLH has extreme poison coursing through him, A-Fei wants to fix him, make him better so that one day they can finish the fight they started a decade ago. He goes to great lengths to get elixirs, potions, herbs, syrups - just for the cause. The eventual friendship is just a byproduct. A great enemies to friends trope.

2. FDB's mom - She took me by surprise. She really kicks ass in final arc, holds respect, and is quite honest with her son about his past. The entire family share a loving relationship and its clear why FDB is the way he is - he has great parents who have loved him unconditionally and have provided for him. The revelation has no impact on her relationship with her son and it continues the way it always has been. She is a great ally for LLH and FDB when in trouble.

3. A-Mian - She could have been easily brushed off as the "love interest". I am however mildly disappointed that she didn't get more exposure because she basically calls her fiancée on his bullshit multiple times. At one time calls him jealous and petty for holding a grudge where the involved parties have moved past.

4. The Villain - (Keeping it vague cause spoilers) This show takes various levels of pettiness, jealousy, anger at others, childhood traumas, childhood in general and builds adult behavior on their experiences. While FDB is easy going and is a bit gullible, A-Fei is the exact opposite with his persona. LLH is a great balance - perfect on paper but quite flawed in his execution as a young sect leader. LLH knows a lot of things and it can seem like its a plot-blessing however LLH ends up explaining (in most cases) how he came about the information.

5. Saintess (IDK, its a weird title) - I wanted to see a much prolonged battle between her and A-Fei. She has been a driving force for the opposite side for majority of the series and its a bit disappointing that it ended the way it did. She was a great antagonist, a good strategist and probably never guessed that friendships would be formed along the way.

6. The cases - Once you realize they are all connected and its one big story, especially when things start to fall in place, the whole drama becomes more fun. There is personal growth for the characters themselves, they grow as people and see the world a little differently; LLH is little less lonely, FDB grows to be stronger in martial arts, A-Fei re-evaluates his methods, and adjusts to the changed world. The camaraderie is the biggest take away - the people they meet, forge new friendships, expose corruption and evil, and get a little closer to the truth.

7. FDB-LLH friendship - It would be so easy for FDB to go through a misunderstanding arc and harbor angst. Even when it happens it lasts for a hot minute. He ends up talking to LLH, and though LLH doesn't tell him everything immediately, FDB accepts it, makes peace with it and fights him when he is hurt. It happens, they acknowledge, they finish the fight, and move on. Its surprisingly refreshing to see this.

8. LLH-A-Fei friendship - It starts as antagonism and not being in martial world has given LLH a different perspective on life. Its obvious A-Fei still has ambition and at the start its seen that LLH and him are enemies. Its a slow road to being friends, to be trusted and A-Fei realizing that LLH was probably his only equal - in terms of trust and respect. Its a beautiful journey.

9. Li Lian Hua - The entire show works because Cheng Yi has chemistry with everyone. He mumbles the way an exhausted man in his place would, respond carelessly knowing he has 0 chance to win a fight and has glib answers when he has half baked plan to escape whatever predicament he is in. As the series progresses, it becomes blatantly clear that we have to make peace with him disappearing from Jiang Hu again. Its impossible to not feel sad at the ending but this was coming. This was coming from the very first episode but it's still heartbreaking.

The ending was spot on, and LLH became one of my favorite characters in Chinese dramas.

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Best drama I’ve seen in a while

Fast-paced plot and wonderful characters keep you hooked from the very first moment and unable to stop watching all the way to the end. The relationships between the main leads were amazing and the actors really brought their characters to life, along with good character development that can be seen as the show goes on. The drama combines humour and heart-felt relationships with action-packed mysteries that connect to solve a greater truth from the past, while also exploring personal growth and teaching valuable lessons about forgiveness, letting go and valuing the present. 一念心清净，莲花处处开。

I also must add that the fighting scenes were so well done and top notch. This drama is a gem and does the Wuxia genre proud. A definite must-watch for everyone!

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Li Lianhua, a physician that famous because of his magic treatment have a hidden secrets about his past. He is actually LiXianyi, a founder of Sigu sect and a number one sword master. He choose to give up his name after incident that make many members of his sect dies, especially his senior.
As Li Lianhua, he seem live carefree freedom that make money by some cunning treatment. But actually he is dying because of Bischa poison during the great battle with a "demon" alliance. Secretly, he also try to find his senior dead body.

It's my first time finished Cheng Yi drama, I think he is nailed as a swindler physician Li Lianhua. His make up as a half dying man also on point. Other actors also have good script and acting.

No explicit bromance here but sometimes lead to it such as how happy Fang Doubing beside LiLianhua. Di Feisheng also have special obsession toward Lilianhua even both of them spend a night together in bridal chamber.

As detective story, many unlogic solution of the case such as face transformation, body splitting, gender shifting, and other magic formulas. So mostly there's no "Aha" moment when we can guess the answer before the actual disclosure scene.

Overall for mystery detective, wuxia, friendship drama, this is good.

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When beautiful story meets beautiful acting to solve mysterious cases

I had been waiting for Mysterious Lotus Casebook for a while because of Cheng Yi as I knew from his previous projects that he always delivers with his acting ─ ‍and I wasn't disappointed. Furthermore, not only him but also whole cast, especially main leads Zeng Shunxi and Xiao Shunyao really did awesome job with their characters and I believe their actings were one of the most powerful elements of this drama. We see an eventful journey and clear character developments ─ ‍not only in lines but also in simple gestures [their eyes, the way they walk and carry themselves, the way they fight.]

The story is really intriguing and keeps getting better and better with each episode. The balance is perfectly done, there are points in certain cases that seem obvious but even then, they give such twists that leave you impressed. Each of those cases also reflects powerful messages, for example, the Girls' Residence/ Mansion ep and final eps' messages about life and humans. The process to solve those cases were well-written as well.

I also love how clear some characters' personalities were and didn't need to change. Righteousness of Li Lianhua/ Li Xiangyi, loyalty of Fang Duobing, stubbornness of Di Feisheng. ─ Also, ‍Li Lianhua's lies were quite creative, sometimes made us laugh and sometimes hurt us bad with all the pain he hid behind.

Character relationships are really charming as well. Absolutely love trio's friendship and how we saw their friendship development. Their trust to each other didn't need to be loud ─ ‍everyone already knows no one trust them like they trust each other. Honorable mention to Li Lianhua and Fox Spirit, their interactions were adorable [ and their farewell was emotional. ]

The sword fights were so elegant and natural, one of the best I have watched in dramas. It was clear that the cast worked so hard to film those scenes.

OST is beautiful too, lyrics complete storyline perfectly! I especially loved instrumental OSTs, really memorable.

Overall, I really liked the drama and definitely recommend it to others!

their story edit : https://www.bilibili.tv/en/video/4790583323263488
link to edits: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLI-LyvxxdMxBAlh5wL0WiS5e-5Ci1kUY_

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