Guardians of the Dafeng: Dropped Drama Diaries
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
Title: | Guardians of the Dafeng (2024) |
Platform: | Disney+, Viki, Youtube (free), WeTV |
MDL Rating: | |
Genre: | Wuxia/ Comedy/ Romance/ Transmigration |
Episode Count: | 40 |
Last Episode Watched: | 10 |
Parental Guidance Rating: | PG-13: Violence, alcohol use (it is listed as TV-18+ on Prime (w/ purchase), but that is NOT accurate lol) |
Starring: | Dylan Wang (Love Between Fairy and Devil) Tian Xi Wei (Pursuit of Jade) Liu Yi Jun (Reset) Yan Zi Dong (Dazzling) |
Synopsis:
Yang Ling, a modern office worker, is transported to the Da Feng Dynasty, where he becomes Xu Qi An, a "copper gong" night watchman. Using his modern knowledge and reasoning, he solves bizarre cases, earning the title of top investigator. In a world of magic, monsters, and court intrigue, he and his companions fight against dark forces to protect justice and the people of Da Feng.
Non-Spoiler Thoughts:
Guardians of Dafeng is the glossy, less sophisticated answer to Joy of Life that no one asked for, but it was still fun. The drama felt like a new age Wuxia that got a Marvel makeover, resulting in a story that was both fun and comedic, though somewhat plastic. I never connected to it or the characters. The whole thing was a shameless showcase for Dylan Wang were he essentially played Dylan Wang, but he was so into it that I honestly didn't mind. His energy was contagious. The character was a bit of a Mary Sue as he had modern knowledge to aid him in this historical setting, which checks out because this director and screenwriter also helmed another popular Transmigration drama, My Heroic Husband. Guardians was more popular internationally than in China, and I can totally see why; it felt geared towards western tastes with quip centered comedy and an avengers set up. And it's coming back for a sequel! I think I will revisit this once the next installment is airing.
Why I dropped:
Annoying FL (though the actress did a good job)
No emotional connection with the story
Too Marvel-esque for me. Don't get me wrong, some of the flashiness was actually fun, but it's just not what I'm personally looking for in a C-drama.
Trailer:
Director: Deng Ke (The Road to Splendor, Shadow Love, Prisoner of Beauty, My Heroic Husband, Legend of Shen Li)
Screenwriter: Yang Yu Chen (My Heroic Husband)
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