There is so much to unpack from the good directorial decisions made in this series. Notably, this C-Drama served high caliber cinematography and production design, bringing to life the wonders of the Tang Dynasty on the small screen.
Luoyang did not disappoint. In fact, what makes this historical-mystery drama great goes beyond being headlined by a famous cast line-up. Particularly, it is actually the tedious, minor details—often overlooked in most C-dramas—that are done well in this series, that contributed to its success.
For instance, it lived up to the soaring expectations of providing a good quality Wuxia/Historical investigative drama content. Moreover, from the art designs, wardrobe, action sequences and narrative’s premise, everything was presented impeccably. With that said, this series is arguably one of 2021’s (and possibly an all-time) best Chinese dramas.
- Main Casts: Huang Xuan | Wang Yi Bo | Victoria Song | Song Yi
- Supporting Casts: Yong Mei | Zhang Shi Lin | Feng Hui
- Thrilling/Addictive Meter:
- Overall Rating:
- Rewatch Value:
- Dramas of Similar Vibes: The Sleuth of the Ming Dynasty | Love Like White Jade | Danger Zone
Nathan Llantos watched “Luoyang” on iQiyi
Luoyang Plot Recap
The series’ premise chronicles the hiatus period of the brief-lived Wu Zhao Dynasty, which was part of the larger Tang Dynasty. At this time, the imperial capital was moved from Chang’an to Luoyang.
The destinies of three unrelated people are inextricably linked when they cross paths during a mysterious murder case investigation. Upon their encounter, they coincidentally discover an enigmatic secret organization with evil schemes for China’s only Empress regnant, Wu Zetian’s, reign.
In detail, Empress Wu Zetian is the sole female emperor in over 5000 years of Chinese history. Moreover, she remains a divisive figure. She is a bold conqueror whose unparalleled competence and intelligence are only equaled by her viciousness against anyone who stands in her way. Especially her own children.
What is more, she fostered undercover agents, secret services and spy rings to obtain evidence against her critics. Throughout this time, the Wu and Li clans were locked in a political battle that lasted until Wu Zetian decided to intervene and revealed her succession plans. Nevertheless, it ceased with a jumbled narrative, deceits, and twists.
On Tragedies & Mysteries
As the characters’ lives intertwine, they face dangerous challenges and unravel new clues. Along with the side characters, they’ll cross paths with up-and-down relationship brews within the leading team. It all started when Gao Bingzhu looked into the murders of his friends and family. Unfortunately, a tragedy befalls him and his loved ones.
His friends went on a trip to Luoyang only to be killed. As a result, Bingzhu does everything in his power to unravel the mystery and find out what truly happened. And so, he puts his life on the line in his pursuit of the perpetrator. The culprit is still on the loose. However, the only clue Bingzhu has is the mark from the sword that slaughtered his friends.
The Spy and The Syndicate
The Four Season Divine, a cryptic organization, lurks in the city of Luoyang. The organization’s primary objective is to stage a coup and dethrone Empress Wu. More importantly, the suspect sought by Gao Bingzhu is a member of this syndicate and is known as the masked killer.
Meanwhile, an important informer was murdered on the way to the city. This urges the character Si Yue (Victoria Song) to uncover the truth further. Soon after, she meets Baili Hongyi(Wang Yibo) and Gao Bingzhu (Huang Xuan), who are also looking into the case. While investigating individually, they begin to see the patterns which will help them crack the case.
United in Matrimony and Mayhem
It took a lot of persuasion to get Hongyi to agree to marry. After a lot of discussion and pleas, Baili Hongyi marries his wife Liu Ran (Song Yi) for the sake of his family. Not long after, he receives unexpected news.
Hongyi’s father is poisoned to death on the day of their wedding. For that reason, Hongyi vows to seek vengeance and bring justice for his deceased father. But he then discovers that his wife is a prospective suspect in his father’s death. With that, their newly bound relationship quickly becomes untrustworthy and complicated.
Luoyang Peak Points
Exemplary World-building
Among the things that stand out the most from this drama is how the production team brought the Tang Dynasty to life. The abundance of extras present in some scenes gave a realistic ambiance to this series’ cinematography and set design. Luoyang replicates a real city rather than merely presenting a show set. Hence, the large crowds of people walking the street convincingly bring a bustling metropolis vibrantly capturing life.
Likewise, the characters’ wardrobes, the props used, and the locations for the scenes are well-thought-out and executed. With that said, this is truly one of the Chinese dramas existing that have impeccable production quality.
Additionally, the director of photography made a creative decision for the actions sequences’ presentation. Hence, achieving their goal to make the viewing experience atmospheric and immersive.
On the other hand, the emotional and filler scenes as well as the visual framings of the main/frequent locations in the series are greatly framed and captured.
Not just that but, the color grading and cinematography are commendable.
Intriguing Narrative & Plot Twists
The storyline tackles many problems and strange events. For instance, Luoyang places its central characters in tough circumstances. Thus, leaving viewers wanting more. Although it often gets annoying when certain arcs of struggle are stretched out, it could lead to a more thrilling and epic viewing experience if played well. This is what the production team of this series strived to do.
What is more, we all hate an unreasonably and unappealingly stretched arc. It gets annoying when it seems like a mish-mash of things is just thrown into the storyline to add mystery and prolong the suspense and confusion. This, actually kills the thrill in the long run. Contrary to this, Luoyang’s plot twists are timed to safe to say – perfection.
Not to mention, the addition of a fascinatingly substantial connotation of conspiracies in the storyline heightened Luoyang‘s charm. Besides that, you won’t find any shortage of thought-provoking twists also. With that said, viewers will appreciate the series’ complex, speedy trajectory that is eventful, if not unpredictable.
Outstanding Character Portrayals
Despite only having shared a few screen times altogether, the synergy of the three main characters is evident and compelling, even if they are mostly working on their own or in pairs most of the time. Viewers see less of the three together, but it is surely a treat when they do.
To summarize, Huang Xuan did an excellent job portraying Gao Bing Zhu, a multifaceted and complex character. Furthermore, expectations are met. Wang Yi Bo did his best to internalize and embody Baili Hongyi, which his fans are looking forward to seeing.
Not only that but, Victoria Song also seemed in sync with her character Si Yue. She performed well in this series, especially during the emotional scenes, which most would not expect. Last but not least, Yong Mei, who played Empress Wu Zetian, has such a presence! Although she is a side character, her role is very significant in the story.
It is commendable that she could exude the class and prowess of royalty. On that note, she was very befitting to portray the role of the regnant. Her presence is enchanting.
Luoyang Series Musings
A Penny For Some Thoughts
It is rare for most series to be an all-out five-star on every aspect to rate. For instance, there are still noticeable loopholes and things that could have been better in the plot. Mainly this series is not a hundred percent spotless. Some certain characters and characteristics are long wished to be rid of when it comes to C-drama genres like this.
To be exact, including the characters that keep on marrying off or hindering the aspirations of their family members—most of the time their female siblings. Or hopeless romantics who are far too obsessed with their unrequited or long-lost love.
Moreover, there is also the issue about side characters who are poorly written and were not given character development and redemption arcs.
Additional Two Cents
Above all, the ending would almost certainly be rejected by the majority of viewers. The series is, indeed, as good as it gets. However, the story was concluded in a way that may irritate some viewers. A little semi-spoiler context, there will be closure and all that, like most series have.
However, most viewers would most likely agree that it could have been better. Nonetheless, this C-drama is still a must-watch. The good parts of the series outweigh the weaker ones and indeed this drama has a lot to offer. After all, Luoyang‘s plot is intense, profound, and comprehensibly chronicled in a total of 39 episodes.
Watch Luoyang on iQiyi and behold the wonders of the Tang Dynasty as the characters uncover mysterious wicked schemes.
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Photos and Videos: iQiyi
