2Into the wild, wicked West.
The second season of Strange Tales Tang Dynasty sees the team reunite in Chang'an at a time the power struggle is intensifying between Li Longji and Princess Taiping. Su Wuming with his keen survival instincts falls on his sword to get them booted out of Changán into the wild, wicked West. In the blink of an eye, Lu Lingfeng is demoted and banished to Yunding, which is literally at the far corner of the Tang empire! This sets the team on a hazardous journey west along the exotic and magnificent ancient Silk Road, a trip fraught with mysterious and dangerous encounters. The team solves eight zhiguai 志怪 or slightly strange cases in this second season.In a year where many highly anticipated sequels have disappointed, STOTD2 stands apart by exceeding S1 on practically all fronts. The Journey to the West theme pays tribute to the classic novel about Tang Sanzang's pilgrimage West, battling supernatural forces along the way. This season is a visual feast for the eyes with meticulously crafted sets and costumes rich in historical detail. The changing increasingly exotic landscape and the stunning, remote sense of timelessness and insignificance as the team traverses the Gobi imbues the narrative with a sense of other-worldly adventures. Even though the antagonists are (mostly) ultimately temporal, there is a whisper of other forces at play. Or at the very least, the spirits of the wronged souls are not silent, they have just been waiting for someone to listen.
The team hits the ground running with a familiar rapport, sense of humor and teamwork that developed over the course of Season 1. In a hilarious role reversal, Su Wuming finds himself the subordinate, a lowly secretary to Lu Lingfeng. I was surprised to see Lu Lingfeng take Su Wuming's "betrayal" so casually and how lightly, almost enthusiastically he embraces his assignment in Yunding. It is as if he is secretly relieved to escape the power play in the capital with his beloved team alongside him. Su Wuming plays the assistant with exaggerated wit and perspicacity as he watches with a gleam of pride in his eye as Lu Lingfeng comes into own as a student of Di Renjie. What I always love best about this pair is that it breaks out of that mold of the master sleuth with a dumb sidekick whose role is simply to elevate his genius. Everyone on the team has a role to play; Pei Xijun as a genius sketch artist, Ying Tao taking up some coroner duties and Chicken Fei as their healer and resident alcoholic,...ahem,...wine connoisseur. Their witty bon mots and playful antics lift the tedium of some of the narrative detail and relieves tension that builds up in tragic or dangerous moments.
Even though the team functions seamlessly, this season is not really about them or their development. Both romances are more or less in holding pattern and most of the spotlight is on the characters in the cases; the victims, survivors and even the antagonists. What S2 has done most successfully is to make us truly invested in the cases, to empathize with the victims, their loved ones and at times even the perpetrators. Or in some cases to truly hate the antagonist to the bone. All the important roles in each case are well cast, with recognizable talented actors that convincingly convey their roles. It is a nice touch to bring back Dugu Xiashu, a beloved character that won hearts in S1. The mix of cases is also well balanced; some are more procedural with more action, adventure and mythical beasts; while others unfold as classic Christie-styled whodunits.
I found the first case Mara's Defeat to be the least well paced and it stretched over too many episodes but that was inevitable as it also brought the team back together and set the stage for their departure from Changan. The case that made me laugh hardest was The Snowy Inn with its tongue-in-cheek humor and of course the hottie sheriff Jiang. Even though I was quite impressed with the CGI monsters and action, I found the the linked Old Boat Official and Tongtian Rhino cases to be the weakest, with missed opportunities and loose ends. The Letter from Shangxian Hall was the best written case, one that left me questioning the high price of justice paid to punish a truly despicable human being. I was quite mad at the team for not looking the other way. But it is the final case that truly moved and broke me. I will not forget Doubao's story for a long time. Thus the season comes to an end in an emotional and visual climax at the awe inspiring Mogao Caves in Dunhuang. The best cases don't have to be water tight, they just have to connect us with the victims and make us reflect upon the dark side of human nature and how far short of restitution justice falls. This is where by comparison this year's high budget Judge Dee's Mystery fell down hard.
The season closes with the team being summoned back to Chang'an into what should be the climax of the historic conflict between Princess Taiping and Li Longji. I expect Season 3 to have a heavier focus on Lu Lingfeng and the team again as they navigate perilous times ahead. While I am sorry to leave behind the wild, exotic and mysterious Silk Road, it will be nice to be in the boldly prosperous Chang'an again. This was a fabulous season and a testament to the importance of hiring one helluva scriptwriter. This will be a hard season to top but this production team is not one I would bet against. I very enthusiastically rate this 9.5/10.0 and count the weeks, months but hopefully not years until S3.
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Super Soild Mystery Drama
No matter what angles you're going for, be it storyline, acting, mystery, season 2 is much better in every way than season 1 and s1 is already a great drama. So, congratulations on the job well done to the SToTD team!I love how solid the relationship between the 5 leads are, there were some rocky moments but they were able to move past that & not let it drag any longer than it should. Some people are complaining about the lack of romance but for me, a mystery drama should never be side tracked by the romance. This drama & the little side romance it has is already perfect. For me, romance side plot will only hamper the pace and almost always introduce unnecessary drama. We don't need that here.
There are a total of eight cases in this series and I tell you, every single ones of them are great. They had me gripping my seat & forced my brain to think of the solutions. I love them all but my particular favourites are 'Drunk in Yunding' and 'Mo's Inn'. Drunk in Yunding case is such a great case. It has it all; wine, corrupt official, covert illegal operation, hunger games style hunting game, missing people. The fight scenes this season is also top notch and there are TONS of them.
Overall, a solid mystery movie with high rewatch value ☺️
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A very good sequel that does not disappoint!
When I saw "Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty II To the West" (SToTD S2) being aired in iQiyi many weeks ago, it caught my attention, so I decided to watch season 1 when season 2 was still airing. While I'm a bit late to season 1, on a positive note, I get to watch them back-to-back, and I don't have to wait months and years for the sequel.Season 2 started where season 1 left off. Due to some events that happened in Chang'an, Lu Ling Feng was deployed to Yunding, a county located in the western frontiers of the Tang Dynasty. As he, Su Wu Ming and the rest of the gang travel westward, they encountered strange things, solved mysteries, met diverse people, and experienced adventures together.
SToTD S2 is a very good and engaging series, and it's now one of my favorites, along with season 1! I was looking forward to each episode and trying to solve the cases with our protagonists. The overarching story and individual cases are generally well-written and seamlessly executed. The pacing is just right and they're not boring. My favorites are:
• 2nd Case - The Death of the Coroner (仵作之死)
• 5th Case - Mystical/Tongtian Rhino (通天犀)
• 6th Case - Drunk in Yunding or Yunding Wine (name of the wine) (云鼎醉)
• 8th Case - The Provider (供养人)
The 4th case is the one I like the least, and where I have some lingering questions.
The cast, from main to supporting, did a great job portraying their characters. I like the continually growing dynamics, humor, and camaraderie of our power team - Lu Ling Feng, Su Wu Ming, Pei Xi Jun, Fei Ji Shi, Chu Ying Tao, and eventually, Xue Huan (who rejoined the team later).
Yang Xu Wen nailed the role of Lu Ling Feng, who has matured and grown a lot since season 1. He was able to show the different sides of LLF - serious, funny, well-educated, intelligent and observant, a great fighter, and a proud man (because of his background) who has learned to be humble. LLF is not showy with his affections, but he protects the people he cares for. His romance with Pei Xi Jun is not passionate and fiery, but sweet and more subdued.
Right now, I can't think of anyone else but Yang Zhi Gang who could portray Su Wu Ming so well. He has a sharp mind, often thinks one step ahead, is observant and a top-notch investigator. Sometimes, he would appear cowardly, but he's actually paving the way for an escape or baiting the suspects. I like how Yang Zhi Gang can pull off a comic scene with a straight face.
Now on to Pei Xi Jun, well portrayed by Gao Xi Wen. At the start of season 1, I find Pei Xi Jun's character a little off-putting, but she has grown much throughout season 1, contributing to many of the cases, and I have come to truly like her. One has to continue watching to understand and appreciate her character more. In season 2, she definitely holds her own ground. She's smart, charming, loyal, is a gifted painter, and made important contributions to the team as they solve the mysteries. Also, she and Lu Ling Feng have great chemistry and make a good pair.
Fei Ying Jun aka Fei Ji Shi (Chicken Fei) is another interesting character. Being the doctor in the team, his expertise is masked behind his shabby appearance. His rapport with the team, especially with Lu Ling Feng and Su Wu Ming, and love for chicken and wine are endearing trademarks of his character. The actor, Chen Chuang, delivers the quirks of Fei Ji Shi pretty convincingly.
Chu Ying Tao, played by Sun Xue Ning, complements Pei Xi Jun. PXJ, being the daughter of a once high-ranking official, is well-educated, refined and has a sheltered upbringing. CYT is straightforward, has good fighting skills and is well-versed in the world of jiang hu (江湖). These two have developed a sisterly bond. Lastly, I'm so glad that Anson Shi reprised his role as Xue Huan. He has grown taller but is still adorable, retaining some of his childlike demeanor.
The music is good and fitting for the drama, although I prefer the ending theme song of season 1 more. Production quality is commendable; the settings and costumes are beautiful. I also like the fight scenes; they're well-choreographed and skillfully executed.
I'm looking forward to season 3, which I hope would be shown next year, in 2025, or at the latest, in 2026. Aside from more interesting cases and the political maneuverings/gripping main story, I also hope they would further develop the 2 main couples' relationships, especially that of Lu Ling Feng and Pei Xi Jun.
Final verdict: SToTD S2 is an excellent sequel, and I highly recommend it. For those who haven't watched both seasons and thinking of diving into S2, I suggest watching S1 first before S2 to get more context, know how the characters got together, to understand their background, and gain a better appreciation of them in season 2.
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The Adventures of Su Wuming and Lu Lingfeng continue ?
Now this is what I call a proper Detective Drama !As I started this second season I felt like it was going to be slower than the first one and less interesting but WRONG I was . To my surprise it got even more interesting with each episode and it kept the same consistency of story , acting and cases .
The things I really liked about this drama are :
• the plot is consistent , engaging and constantly moving forward. The cases kept going along the journey and even if at time 2 cases intertwined with each other they didn’t just forget about one and picked up the other as many other failed detective dramas did .
•the characters ( our little 5 people group made of Su Wuming , Lu Lingfeng , Xijun, Yingtao and Fei Shiji ) I loved their close bond and the way they all contributed to solving the cases through different ways . Su Wuming - the brains , Lu Lingfeng - The power , Xijun - Painting , Yingtao - force and Fei Shiji - Medicine . No betrayals or giving up on each time . They were basically like a family
•No Forced and unnecessary Romance squeezed in to please the public or to sell ships.
•THE CASES . I’m a really enthusiast of detective dramas and I’m really really satisfied with the way the cases are written and solved . The cases are actually written to be interesting and to keep you guessing and each time hit you with an unexpected plot twist towards the end . Especially the last case with Duobao… that one really made me cry . Such a good child , I would’ve never guessed the real culprit .
With all of that being said I also think that the cinematography , costumes and other props definitely improved this season (of course thanks to the success of the first season) and I was happy to be part of their journey to the west .
MAY WE GET A THIRD 3 SEASON SOON ✨
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I LOVE IT
Oh, the excitement when they started airing Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty 2. Season 1 was so brilliant that I was worried that Season 2 might disappoint, but I didn't have to worry as our brilliant cast delivered an excellent masterpiece once again (I might even say that Season 2 outdid Season 1). I can't wait for Season 3 to be released!I wouldn't say that the mysteries here in Season 2 are way better than Season 1, but the teamwork and unity that our detective team showed in this season was what made Season 2 so much more exciting and satisfying to watch. We didn't have to watch our main duo be at odds with each other, neither were we bombarded with so many new characters that we had to get used to that would later be in important for the story. It was also so easy to immerse myself into the plot again because the same cast was used and I am already so used to how they portray that particular character.
The political struggle was also not as in your face here as it was in Season 1. The princess and the crown prince were just mainly in the background and popped up once in a while to remind us that the team still has to overcome them - their biggest obstacle - eventually. I get tired of politics very easily...so giving us a break in this season was particularly thrilling and made this a pure mystery drama.
My Top 3 favourite mysteries are probably 降魔变 (The Mara), 通天犀 (The Rhinoceros Girl) and 云鼎醉 (The Immortal Steps of Yunding) - I can't remember the official English titles for these three mysteries...but you get the gist of what I am talking about. The Mara story was very intriguing, whereas the latter two were exceptionally touching and had characters who were willing to fight and die for their country (I am a weakling for this). Also, Lu Lingfeng in black? Yummy, give me more of that in Season 3 please.
For a cast that doesn't include any big name celebrity, this drama has once again stolen the limelight and also settled down in a special place in my heart. It relied on its excellent cast, their acting and the brilliant storyline. It is no doubt a drama that I would rewatch again (after I've cleared all my "Currently Watching" and "Want to Watch" list). Let's wait for Season 3!!
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Creatively-written strange tales, higher production value and great chemistry for the Party of 5
Like many others, I enjoyed “Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty II To the West” more than season 1. To me, everything is better - acting, production quality (budget), and the strange tales themselves. I hope fans of season 1 will eventually watch this new season. The # of watchers is just too low for a quality drama like this. However, it did take me a few episodes to truly get into the drama. The first arc did not appeal to me but once their journey to the west started, it was a lot of fun.Strange Tales/Plot
I enjoy the mysteries a lot more than in season 1. The first arc is the least interesting to me, but is needed to set the stage for future events and journey. It’s the most political and less “human”. But subsequent storylines cater to more human experiences and emotions, and I had a much better time watching them. The stories and clues are beautifully entwined with each other. I was unable to guess the culprit for the most part, until the end. Even if I could guess who that person is, I couldn’t figure out how the murder was done. I enjoyed learning and discovering the new clues as they were unveiled.
Friendship/Party of 5
We are way past the growing pains of trust between Liu Ling Feng and Su Wu Ming, and their friendship and camaraderie are at a different level. Liu Ling Feng has matured and become a much better partner to Su Wu Ming. The party of 5 believes in and cares for each other, and have great chemistry with each other. A lot of words and feelings can be conveyed just by a single look. And with great acting, that one look is subtle and knowing (not a crazy, exaggerated ‘wink wink’). In the first half of the drama, I started to complain about the use of the two female leads, Pei Xi Jun and Ying Tao. They are both capable and smart, yet they were used in such minor ways (a fight or a drawing here and there). However, I was glad that they were utilized much better in the second half. They actively participated in the investigation and contributed to solving the mysteries through street and book smarts.
Romance
I will continue to complain about the romance, as in season 1. Now that we have two established couples, I had wished the drama would incorporate their romance better into the plot, and/or during downtime in between cases/arcs. I am not expecting a great romance (as that would be inappropriate) but some more words of encouragement/endearment or act of affection would be nice. The women acted like all they did was to follow their men around and do whatever they’re told. They’re not an equal partner in the relationship, and I am pissed off for them.
Production
It seems like season 2 has a higher budget. The special effects, sets and designs look so much better. Aside from Lu Ling Feng, most of the characters still wear the same clothes everyday. But I like them as they’re appropriate for their roles and statuses. I enjoy the fight scenes and they’re much better than most xianxia and wuxia dramas. At least both Yang Xu Wen and Sun Xue Ning look the part when they are fighting, and not flailing or twirling. I also appreciate the lack of slow-motion fight scenes, though the editing gave me a little motion sickness when I was watching this drama while commuting on the train.
If you are fans of mysteries, investigations and ‘strange tales’, I will definitely recommend this drama to you. I can’t say I am a big fan, but I like Yang Xu Wen and know that this drama will not disappoint. It has solid acting, great friendship and interesting investigations. I hope I don’t have to wait for too long for season 3.
Completed: 11/4/2024 - Review #508
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Might even be better than Season 1
Tbh I enjoyed season 1 only after the detective duo started working together properly, so S1 just got better towards the end. I actually prefer watching Season 2 more as everyone’s dynamics have been clearly written and we can just move straight into solving crimes instead of introducing the main cast. Also I think the first 3 mysteries this season are my all time favourite from this series, especially the first one is so time & detail oriented, it’s written very well. The other mysteries are also so interesting! The last mystery is perhaps the least intriguing, but had a satisfying conclusion.Being more case solving this season is a detriment to further developing the main casts’ relationships. Frankly, none of their relationships actually go anywhere and not much happens. I hope they balance it out better in the next season (for which I’m very excited for!)
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This show is worth it!
If you like S1, you will love S2 even more. The characterization, the team dynamic, the cameraderie...bascially everything you thought that was good in S1 they are 1000% betterin S2.The LLF and SWM duo is even stronger in this season. In S1, SWM serves as LLF's mentor but in S2 they are like equals, with both leads investigating both ends of an investigation. And in this season you see LLF is more mature, able to come up with his own analysis.
You get to see LLF and Xijun 's love story develop albeit slowly but it is totally worth it ? You get to see the sisterhood between Xijun and Ying Tao develop ☺️ You get to see Ying Tao as the second protector of the team and LLF putting his trust in her ?️ You get to see Chicken Fei and his timely comedic moments between LLF and everyone else on the team. And Spoiler alert! You get to see the sweet reunion between Xue Huan and LLF ?
In terms of the cases themselves, all are enjoyable!!! Some leaves a more lasting impression compared to others though like the Coroner's case and Provider's case (last one). And the Yanxian Hall Letter and Mo's inn are equally fun!
The CGI is much better in S2. I've seen better CGI but this is one of the best use of CGI in Chinese drama land these past few years. The ship monster scene was really fun to watch ?
You can tell this show was made with a lot of love and careful thought and consideration. Every supporting cast members in each case did a phenomenal job portraying their characters and leave a lasting impression on me. These are characters treated with care and respect and not as a means to make the main characters look good. Also tell me why all the sheriffs look so good ??? and then they don that fou tao hat (I forgot what you call it) they all look so good!
In terms of characters who left a strong impression on me? Duobao, Saisai, Mudan, Suo Lon (the police man), Sima Liang, and so much more!
If you enjoyed the fight scenes in S1, the fight scenes in this one is even more amazing. I kept replying so many shots. It is hard to follow bc of the multiple shots and angle, but if you rewind and take the time to digest you can tell that each shot was not wasted. Each shot was taken to show you the fluidity of the sword or body moving. And the way they shot it to depict the energy behind each movement was amazing!
My favorite scenes include the fight scenes from ep 6. So good ?✋? And the other one I forgot which episode, but it was the Drunk in Yunding case where LLF fought against the 13 guardians. You might have missed it but my boy was fighting with a spear AND sword! It's one of my top fight scenes of all time (not to mention that there sworded fight from S1).
Yi highly recommend this show and can't wait for S3!!!
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This review may contain spoilers
An Entertaining & Thrilling Watch Indeed
This review was long overdue, I’m glad that I finally got time to watch the show completely!Forgoing on the dynasty politics, “Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty II To the West” sticks close to what it is best known for- solving crimes in the midst of diffident situations. Despite their initial misunderstandings in the pilot episodes, our dynamic duo are back together as they travel towards the West with their motley group. Whilst Lu Lingfeng is demoted to the position of the Sheriff, Su Wuming tags along as his personal secretary aka sounding board. The 40 episodes span across their various adventures as Lu LingFeng & Su Wuming solve mysteries in the midst of defending themselves from varied assassinations attempts. Even though they suspect the Emperor, Lu LingFeng never gives up on his principles and chooses to strive for justice. As they cross borders to reach Yunding, their camaraderie grows stronger; with Su Wuming taking a step back and relinquishing control to Lu LingFeng, who is now adept at investigations.
Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2024/10/09/strange-tales-of-tang-dynasty-ii-to-the-west-series-review/#more-1253
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2024 best period CDrama so far
The Only CDrama in 2024, that I finished watching all episodes without fast forward. It's clear to see that the production team put their heart and effort in this play. It's very satisfying to see a CDrama that put real historical knowledge seriously. The characters act and think accordingly as how they supposed to be at that time period. Although it may not be perfect, it's the best of 2024 to date, imo. I hoped in the next project they can maintain this level of quality. Really recommend this, especially if you're interested to see a more accurate portrayal of ancient china.Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
These are my impression between the difference. Do note it's been so long since I watched season 1 so I may not be super accurate. I remember that in - In S1, colors are more vivid. Season 2 seems to lean on darker colors. Although thise dancing ladies are so prettyy!
- More fight scenes in season 2. Thank God it's not heavily reliant on CGI
- Season 1 has memorable OST (I love it so much). Season 2 OST is bland.
- Season 1 has a lot of mystery. I think on the first few parts a mystery spans 1-3episodes unlike in season 2, a mystery is almost 6(?) episode long.
- Romance felt forced. In season 2, the romance started to get better especially for PXJ and LLF because in S1, LLF is so in denial of his feelings. But really, they can definitely work out as best friends, I don't see the need forr romance.
- PXJ talent is given more highlight in season 2. In season 1, I felt that she was like a filler character.
- Their bond in season 2 is so stronger. Every character has their own strength and seeing them working together is just so satisfying.
All in all it was still good!
Btw, I just want to say that the wife of both Dugu, portrayed by Xi Wang, is so pretty. Actually, all female side characters are pretty.
Regarding the cases, my favorite are the last two.
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Better than Season 1!!!
The cases are interesting, all have different settings and themes. And not easily guessed and plot twists abound too! I've grown really fond of the main characters and was sad when the show was over. Their comradery and friendship really grew in this season. In S1 i found Lu Lingfeng overbearing and arrogant, but he has decent character development here. Even Pei Xijun had immense growth and got to showcase her intellignce and grace. There is minimal romance and the show focuses heavily on strange tales and cases. Its definitely deserving of more than a 8!Was this review helpful to you?
