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Martial Universe
Martial Universe
Martial Universe
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Martial Universe
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Also known as武动乾坤之英雄出少年
武动乾坤之冰心在玉壶[1]
GenreFantasy
Adventure
Romance
Based onWu Dong Qian Kun by Tiancan Tudou
Written byZhang Li
Directed byZhang Li
StarringYang Yang
Zhang Tianai
Wang Likun
Wu Chun
ComposerAn Wei
Country of originChina
Original languageMandarin
No. of seasons2
No. of episodes40 (season 1), 20 (season 2)
Production
ProducerZhang Wei
Production locationsXiangshan Movie & Television Town
Running time45 mins
Production companiesAzure Media Corporation
Youku
Beijing Century Partner
Yuekai Entertainment
China Reading Limited
Horgos Shang Hui Television Culture Media
Original release
NetworkDragon TV
ReleaseAugust 7, 2018 (2018-08-07)

Martial Universe (Chinese: 武动乾坤) is a 2018 Chinese television series based on the web novel Wu Dong Qian Kun by Tiancai Dudou. It stars Yang Yang, Zhang Tianai, Wang Likun and Wu Chun.[2] The series is divided into two seasons.[1]

The first season of the series aired on Dragon TV starting August 7, 2018.[3] The second season of the series aired on Youku starting October 11, 2018.[4]

Synopsis

[edit]

A mysterious seal introduces male protagonist Lin Dong to the art of cultivation, and he travels across the lands in order to hone his skills. He meets two vastly different women in Ling Qingzhu and Ying Huanhuan on his adventures, and gets romantically entangled with both.

Through sheer grit and determination, Lin Dong eventually becomes one of the most powerful and respected cultivators. As Lin Dong's powers increase, so does his knowledge of the world's deadliest secrets. He soon discovers the demon sect's plot to take over the world, and the three youths join forces with the righteous martial artists to defeat all evil and return peace to the land.

Cast

[edit]

Main

[edit]
  • Yang Yang as Lin Dong (林动)
    • Protagonist. A descendant of the Lin clan. He is chosen by the Emblem stone to be the successor of the Emblem master, who sealed away the Yimo demons a century ago, and take up the duty of fighting against the re-emergence of the Yimo. He first fell in my love with Ling Qingzhu but when she took too long to reciprocate his feelings, he also ended up liking Ying Huanhuan. But he could never let go of Ling Qingzhu so he married her first.
  • Wang Likun[5] as Ling Qingzhu (绫清竹)
    • Princess of Nine Heaven's Tai Qing Palace. Through an unexpected turn of events, she and Lin Dong end up sleeping with each other and she tracks him down to get her revenge, but instead becomes moved by his determination and fell in love with Lin Dong. She later became Lin Dong's first wife in the novel.
  • Zhang Tian'ai as Ying Huanhuan (应欢欢)
    • Daughter of the leader of Dao Sect. Her real identity is that of a reincarnated ice lord and she awakens her powers in order to protect Dao Zong and help Lin Dong in his quest for revenge. She risked her life and did everything for Lin Dong. She later became his second wife.
  • Wu Chun[6] as Lin Langtian (林琅天)
    • A martial arts prodigy who bears the burden of leading the entire Lin Clan to greater success. However, he loses his way along the journey and succumbed to the schemes of the villains.

Supporting

[edit]
  • Ashton Chen[7] as Lin Yan / Xiao Yan (林炎/小炎)
    • A tiger demon who used to follow Lin Dong around until he eventually transformed into a human. He possess immense strength, courage and loyalty. He is later found to be the successor of the Prehistoric ancestral emblem.
  • Liu Yan[8] as Mu Qianqian (穆芊芊) / Heavenly Seat King （天王殿）
    • Lin Langtian's senior sister. She is a seductress and a cunning, manipulative elder of the Yuan Sect she is eventually shown as a Heavenly Seat King - Yi Demon.
  • Suo Xiaokun[9] as Lin Diao (林貂)
    • A martem demon from the heavenly monk tribe. He was trapped inside a stone amulet until eventually discovered by Lin Dong. He starts out completely indifferent towards Lin Dong but ends up becoming his sworn brother alongside Xiao Yan. Later in the series, he became the acknowledged successor of the Thunder ancestral emblem.
  • Dong Qing[10] as Lin Qingtan (林青檀)
    • Lin Dong's foster younger sister. She harbors a dark and chilling power within her, which she eventually turns it into her cultivation. She is the successor of the Darkness ancestral Emblem.
  • Yang Haoyu as Master Yan (岩大师)
    • Master of Yan Cheng Wizard Sect. Lin Dong's teacher.
  • Li Xinliang as Teng Lei (腾儡)
    • Lord of the Wilderness, Prince of Magic Puppet Sect.
  • Feng Junxi[11] as Mo Ling (莫凌)
    • Prince of Dayan Royal Dynasty. Eventually became Lin Dong's good friend as he follows Lin Dong at Dao Sect where he died in Lin Dong's arms on their escape from the demon swarm.
  • Xiao Siqin Gaowa[12] as Xuan Su (萱素)
    • Supervisor of the Wanjin Chamber of Commerce auction house.
  • Tse Kwan-ho as Lin Xiao (林啸)
    • Lin Dong's father. He sacrificed himself to shelve the Yimo.
  • Wang Haitao[13] as Chen Feng (辰风)
    • From the Darkness tribe.
  • Kuang Can as Lu Yun (陆云)
  • Ning Xiaohua[14] as Sixth prince of Demon Tribe (魔族六王殿)
  • Wu Yajun[15] as Mu Lingshan (慕灵珊)
    • Little princess of the Fox tribe. Rescued by Lin Dong.
  • Qian Long as Jiang Hao (蒋浩)
    • Disciple of Dao Sect. Lin Dong's senior brother. Sacrificed himself to the Demon swarm to protect his Sect brothers.
  • Zhao Dan[16] as Su Rou (苏柔)
    • A senior disciple of Nine Heaven's Tai Qing Palace. Ling Qingzhu's senior sister.
  • Chen Yating[citation needed] as Mu Xinqing (慕心晴)
    • Elder princess of the Fox tribe.
  • Ji Dongran[17] as Lei Li (雷厉)
  • Zhou Yiwei as Zhou Tong (周通)
    • Lin Dong's senior. A genius who was the only disciple who mastered the Desolation formation from the Dao Sect before Lin Dong. He died after their encounter with the Third Seat King - Yi Demon.
  • Sun Yulin as Shen Qing (沈清)
    • Palace Leader of the Nine Heaven's Tai Qing Palace.

Production

[edit]

In March 2016, Azure Media Corporation announced that they have begun pre-production for Martial Universe and has engaged Zhang Li as the director for the series.[18][19] The script for the series took two years to complete. Zhang Li revealed that the drama will be set in the culturally vibrant Spring & Autumn / Warring States Period, and that there would be increased emphasis on the wuxia elements.[20][21]

Principal production began on November 14, 2016, at Xiangshan.[22] Filming halted for two months for lead actor Yang Yang to recover from his injuries.[23] The second stage of filming resumed in September 2017.[24] On October 31, 2017, the production wrapped filming after 258 days.[25]

Casting

[edit]

On August 29, 2016, Yang Yang was announced as the male lead, Lin Dong.[26]

On October 10, 2016, the lead actress was announced to be Zhang Tianai, who would play the role of Ling Qingzhu.[27]

On November 14, 2016, the production team announced that lead actress Zhang Tianai would play Ying Huanhan instead. Actress Wang Likun was added to the production, taking over Zhang's previous role as Ling Qingzhu.[28] A controversy arose there were rumors stating that Zhang had snatched the role of Gina Jin's, who was initially cast to play the role of Ying Huanhuan. In response to this, director Zhang Li said that after reviewing the script, the production team decided that Zhang Tianai was more suitable to play Ying Huanhuan, hence explaining the change in roles.[29]

Soundtrack

[edit]
No.TitleLyricsMusicSingersLength
1."Puzzle (谜)" (Theme song)Zhang YingChen XueranJason Zhang 
2."Starry Sky (星空)"NZBZNZBZNZBZ 
3."That Youth (那少年)"Xiao SiqiChen XueranSuo Xiaokun 
4."Exorcism (降魔)"Guan ShanAn WeiZhang Lei 
5."Your Mirror (你的镜子)"Guan ShanAn WeiZhang Lei 
6."Between Us (你我之间)" (Ending theme song)Zhang YingChen XueranTanya Chua 

Ratings

[edit]
Air date Episode # Dragon TV ratings[30] Youku National Internet ratings
Ratings (%) Audience share (%) Rank Ratings (%) Audience share (%) Rank
August 7 1-2 0.333 2.196 10 0.192 1.392 13
August 8 3-4 0.285 1.858 12 0.187 1.397 13
August 9 5-6 0.563 3.683 5 0.277 2.089 9
August 14 7-8 0.432 2.724 8 0.19 1.401 13
August 15 9-10 0.458 2.994 9 0.167 1.242 15
August 16 11-12 0.643 4.177 4 0.233 1.803 10
August 21 13-14 0.293 1.908 11 0.102 0.759 24
August 22 15-16 0.373 2.412 10 0.159 1.243 14
August 23 17-18 0.409 2.647 11 0.183 1.356 13
August 28 19-20 0.656 4.15 3 — — —
August 29 21-22 0.653 4.158 5 0.257 1.924 11
August 30 23-24 0.669 4.371 4 0.27 2.138 10
September 4 25-26 0.547 4.102 7 0.162 1.548 17
September 5 27-28 0.485 4.729 9 0.134 1.785 17
September 6 29-30 0.612 5.391 5 0.222 2.592 12
September 11 31-32 0.525 3.966 8 0.16 1.487 14
September 12 33-34 0.539 4.23 6 0.164 1.622 16
September 13 35-36 0.66 5.287 5 0.219 2.298 11
September 18 37-38 0.434 3.321 9 0.15 1.41 21
September 19 39-40 0.430 3.341 9 — — —

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Award Category Nominated work Result Ref.
Golden Bud - The Third Network Film And Television Festival IP Adaptation of the Year Martial Universe Won [31]

International broadcast

[edit]
Channel Location Broadcast start date Note
Dragon TV Mainland China 7 August 2018 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 22:00 (two eps)
DramaFever

Viki.com Pluto.tv

U.S., Canada and Latin America 7 August 2018 Unknown
FPT Play Vietnam 7 August 2018 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 21:30 (two eps)
Star Chinese Channel Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Canada, U.S. 7 August 2018 Monday to Friday 20:00
dimsum Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore (via Starhub Go) 8 August 2018 Wednesday to Friday 12:00
8TV Malaysia 3 September 2018 Monday to Friday 20:30
Channel China South Korea 7 November 2018 Unknown
CTV8 HD Cambodia 2019 Unknown
MX Player India 7 August 2018 Unknown
VTV3 Vietnam 2019 Monday to Friday 12:00
Channel 3 Thailand 15 March 2023 Monday 23:45 Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 22:45

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Martial Universe

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Martial Universe, known in Chinese as Wu Dong Qian Kun (武动乾坤), is a web written by the author Tian Can Tu Dou (pen name of Li Hu), serialized online from 2011 to 2013 and comprising 1,309 chapters. The story is set in a fantastical world of cultivation where individuals harness spiritual to achieve abilities, and it centers on the protagonist Lin Dong, a young man from a marginalized branch of the Lin Clan in the Great Yan Empire. Driven by a desire for revenge after his father is crippled by a rival clan member, Lin Dong stumbles upon a mysterious stone talisman in a cave, which grants him extraordinary cultivation potential and sets him on a path of relentless growth amid clan conflicts, demonic threats, and ancient legacies. The novel explores themes of perseverance, family honor, and the pursuit of supremacy in a hierarchical society where strength dictates status, blending intense action sequences with elements of romance and brotherhood. Tian Can Tu Dou, renowned for his earlier work , crafted Martial Universe as a tale of an underdog's ascent, emphasizing Lin Dong's transformation from a weakling to a legendary figure through willpower and opportunistic discoveries. The series gained immense popularity in the Chinese web novel community for its fast-paced progression system, detailed world-building across empires and sects, and climactic battles against otherworldly invaders known as Yimo demons. Martial Universe has spawned several adaptations, including a 2018 live-action television series produced by and Dragon TV, starring Yang Yang as Lin Dong, which aired 40 episodes and focuses on his early cultivation journey and clan rivalries. Additionally, a (Chinese animation) adaptation by studio Motion Magic premiered in 2019, with multiple seasons released through 2025, totaling over 70 episodes and expanding on the novel's epic scope with vibrant visuals and , distributed on platforms like Tencent Video. A (comic) version also exists, illustrated adaptations that visually capture the novel's cultivation battles and character arcs since 2015. These adaptations have broadened the franchise's reach, introducing its themes of destiny and martial prowess to global audiences via streaming services like Viki and .

Background

Source Material

Martial Universe is adapted from the Chinese web novel Wu Dong Qian Kun (武动乾坤), written by the author known by the pen name Tian Can Tu Dou, or Heavenly Silkworm Potato, whose real name is Li Hu. The novel was first published online on the Qidian platform starting July 20, 2011, and completed on May 17, 2013, spanning 1,317 chapters. Tian Can Tu Dou is a prominent figure in the xianxia genre, renowned for crafting expansive tales of martial cultivation and epic confrontations. His other notable works include Battle Through the Heavens (Dou Po Cang Qiong) and The Great Ruler (Da Zhu Zai), which similarly explore themes of personal growth, revenge against oppressors, and battles against otherworldly demonic forces. Wu Dong Qian Kun embodies these motifs within a xianxia framework, centering on the protagonist's arduous path of self-cultivation amid clan rivalries and existential threats from ancient evils. At its core, the novel follows Lin Dong, a young man from a marginalized branch of the Lin Clan, who rises from obscurity to become a formidable martial artist through the discovery of a mysterious stone talisman that aids his cultivation. Key narrative arcs revolve around the pursuit of powerful Ancestral Symbols—ancient artifacts granting immense abilities—and conflicts with the Yimo, malevolent demons seeking to overrun the world, often requiring Lin Dong to forge precarious alliances across sects and empires. These elements establish a vast world of layered hierarchies, spiritual treasures, and cosmic stakes that define the tradition. The live-action TV series Martial Universe adapts this expansive source material by condensing its intricate world-building and multi-arc progression into 60 episodes across two seasons, with Season 1 comprising 40 episodes aired in 2018 and Season 2 adding 20 episodes in 2018. This compression necessitates the omission of later novel developments, such as the storyline involving the Ice Spirit Tribe, to fit the serialized format while preserving the protagonist's foundational journey and major confrontations. A separate animated , known as the donghua version of Martial Universe, began airing in 2019 and follows a distinct production path.

Development

The TV series adaptation of Martial Universe was greenlit in April by and Dragon TV as a 60-episode production, marking the official start of with the release of a poster and confirmation of director Zhang Li's involvement. Initially planned as a single season to cover the expansive , the project was expanded into two seasons due to the source material's lengthy narrative spanning multiple cultivation realms and major conflicts, allowing for a more detailed exploration without excessive compression. Scripting began shortly after the announcement, led by a team of writers tasked with adapting key arcs while addressing challenges in condensing the protagonist's cultivation progression and intricate battle sequences into a television format. The process emphasized maintaining the essence of elements, with director Zhang Li contributing to the emphasis on dynamic for fight scenes to capture the novel's high-stakes action. The full script took approximately two years to finalize, incorporating feedback to balance pacing across the seasons. The was estimated at around 600 million RMB, reflecting the ambitious scale of and set designs required for the fantasy setting. Development spanned from 2016 to 2018, including seven months of for costumes, props, and scene planning, followed by starting in November 2016 and wrapping in October 2017, with Season 1 filming commencing in early 2018 after revisions. Key decisions during development included retaining prominent romance subplots from the to deepen character relationships, such as those involving the lead and female counterparts, alongside structural choices to conclude Season 1 at the Great Desolate Tablet arc—focusing on initial trials and alliances—and Season 2 at the climactic confrontation with the Yimo Emperor, ensuring a self-contained yet serialized narrative arc.

Plot

Season 1 Synopsis

The first season of Martial Universe, comprising 40 episodes, aired from August 7 to September 19, 2018, on Dragon TV and in . Set in the fictional Dayan Dynasty, the narrative centers on Lin Dong, a young and initially talentless member of the Lin Clan in the rural Qingyang Town, where his family has fallen into decline following the public humiliation of his father, Lin Xiao. As an underdog overlooked by his clan, Lin Dong yearns to restore his family's honor and protect his loved ones from ongoing threats posed by rival families and local gangs. Lin Dong's fortunes change when he discovers a mysterious stone talisman hidden in a cave near Qingyang Town, an ancient artifact that opens a vast spiritual space brimming with esoteric techniques and cultivation secrets. Guided by the talisman's enigmatic powers, he embarks on rigorous training to refine his body and mind, rapidly advancing through the stages of cultivation despite his late start. This acquisition sparks intense conflicts, including rivalries within the Lin Clan—particularly with ambitious relatives vying for leadership—and external confrontations with aggressive groups like the Leopard Gang, who seek to exploit the town's resources and weaken the Lin family further. As Lin Dong delves deeper into the talisman's mysteries, he attains his first Ancestral Symbol, the Devouring Ancestral Symbol, which enhances his ability to absorb and harness vital energies from the environment, marking a pivotal step in his growth. He forges key alliances, notably with his steadfast father Lin Xiao, who imparts wisdom from his own experiences, and Ying Huanhuan, whose support aids him amid rising tensions. Early brushes with demonic entities introduce subtle hints of larger supernatural threats lurking beyond the town, underscoring themes of familial redemption and perseverance. Through these trials, Lin Dong evolves from a marginalized into an emerging protector, his driving the season's focus on resilience and self-discovery. The season builds toward a climactic setup with the introduction of the Hundred Dynasties War, a grand inter-clan competition that promises to elevate Lin Dong's journey onto a broader stage of martial rivalries and ancient legacies.

Season 2 Synopsis

The second season of Martial Universe, comprising 20 episodes, aired from October 11 to November 20, 2018, on in . Season 2 picks up immediately after the events of the Hundred Dynasties War, with protagonist Lin Dong allying with Zhou Tong to confront lingering threats from the Yimo demons. As the Yimo Emperor survives their initial defeat, Lin Dong delves deeper into the affairs of the super sects, forging stronger ties with the Dao Sect and navigating political intrigue within the larger martial world. His journey intensifies as he pursues the remaining Ancestral Symbols, including the Ice Symbol and the Life-Death Symbol, which hold the key to countering the escalating demonic invasion. Building on the talisman powers acquired in the first season, Lin Dong's mastery of the Devouring Ancestral Symbol allows him to absorb and wield greater energies, but it also draws him into perilous alliances and betrayals. Key events unfold as Lin Dong reunites with Ying Huanhuan, traveling to the Symbol Valley where they face formidable enemies guarding the Ice Symbol. Ying Huanhuan's pivotal role emerges as she sacrifices her personal desires, including her romantic bond with Lin Dong, to awaken as the Ice Master, unleashing cryogenic powers to seal the Yimo Emperor in a climactic battle. Meanwhile, Lin Dong aids his sister Qing Tan in her ascension as the at the Dark Palace, helping her consolidate power against internal rivals influenced by Yimo . Alliances form with figures like Zhou Tong and Ying Xiaoxiao, leading to coordinated assaults on Yimo strongholds, including the Demon Domain and Sky Cave, where ancient symbols' latent powers are revealed through intense confrontations. Lang Tian, Lin Dong's former rival turned Yimo pawn, betrays multiple factions, absorbing forbidden energies and challenging Lin Dong in personal duels that highlight themes of greed and redemption. The season builds to a series conclusion marked by large-scale battles against the Yimo forces, emphasizing and the restoration of temporary peace. Lin Dong confronts Lang Tian in a final showdown, where the corrupted antagonist's thirst for power leads to his downfall, allowing Lin Dong to fully integrate the Ancestral Symbols' essences. Ying Huanhuan's sealing of the Yimo Emperor, at great personal cost, resolves the immediate demonic threat, while romantic tensions between her and Lin Dong find bittersweet closure amid the chaos. With the super sects united under Lin Dong's leadership, the martial world achieves a fragile equilibrium, setting for future perils as of deeper Yimo resurgences linger. Themes of underscore the narrative, reinforcing the larger-scale demonic threats that demand unwavering resolve.

Cast and Characters

Main Cast

Yang Yang portrays Lin Dong, the central protagonist who begins as an underprivileged youth from a rural Lin Clan branch, facing disdain and physical frailty due to a childhood illness, before acquiring a mystical stone talisman that awakens his latent potential in martial cultivation and symbol mastery. His character's arc traces a transformative journey from vulnerability to becoming a formidable symbol master and martial artist, driven by themes of perseverance and revenge against familial oppressors. Zhang Tianai plays Ying Huanhuan, the poised and talented daughter of the Dao Sect leader, inheritor of the ancient Ice Master's essence, whose composed exterior masks a deeper emotional vulnerability tied to her and fateful bond with Lin Dong as one of his primary romantic interests. Her role embodies ethereal grace and quiet strength, evolving through seasons to reveal tragic undercurrents linked to her sacrificial duties and profound loyalty. Wang Likun embodies Ling Qingzhu, a enigmatic and disciple from the secluded Nine Heavens Taiqing Palace, introduced as a pivotal early influence on Lin Dong through her role as both a temporary mentor in cultivation arts and a complex romantic counterpart marked by initial aloofness and mutual growth. The character highlights themes of independence and hidden affections, serving as a catalyst for Lin Dong's early advancements while navigating her sect's secretive doctrines. Wu Chun depicts Lin Langtian, Lin Dong's haughty and ambitious cousin from the Lin Clan's main branch, whose relentless pursuit of power and clan dominance positions him as a primary , fueling intense rivalries rooted in familial hierarchy and personal vendettas. His portrayal underscores themes of arrogance and unchecked ambition, clashing repeatedly with the to propel the narrative's conflicts. The main cast reprises their roles across both seasons of the series, maintaining narrative continuity as Lin Dong's odyssey intensifies against escalating threats, with Yang Yang's dynamic physicality particularly acclaimed in the elaborate action sequences involving wirework, swordplay, and energy-based martial confrontations that showcase his character's prowess. These performances collectively anchor the core interpersonal dynamics, blending romance, rivalry, and heroism without introducing new leads.

Supporting Cast

Lin Xiao, portrayed by Xie Junhao, serves as Lin Dong's father and a pivotal figure in the protagonist's early motivation, having been a once-brilliant talent crippled during a competition, which drives the family's quest for redemption and strength. His underscores the personal stakes of family legacy within the Lin Clan, providing emotional depth to Lin Dong's growth without overshadowing the central narrative. Jiang Xue acts as an early ally to Lin Dong from the Eagle Martial Dojo in Qingyang Town, offering crucial support in the initial stages of his journey through shared local alliances amid rising conflicts. Her presence highlights the interpersonal dynamics that bolster the 's resolve. portrays Lin Yan (also known as Little Flame), a loyal companion and demon who becomes one of Lin Dong's sworn brothers, providing fierce combat support and evolving alongside the in battles against rivals and demonic forces. Suo Xiaokun plays Lin Diao (Little Marten), another sworn brother and marten demon with cunning intelligence and powerful demonic abilities, aiding Lin Dong in strategic confrontations and ancient legacy pursuits. Dong Qing embodies Lin Qingtan, Lin Dong's devoted younger sister from the Lin family branch, whose gentle nature and growing cultivation skills contribute to family unity and emotional support throughout the series. Zhou Tong, enacted by Zhou Yiwei, emerges as a senior martial artist and mentor to Lin Dong in Season 2, renowned as a genius disciple of the who imparts advanced techniques and strategic guidance during intense confrontations. His expertise in sect lore and combat elevates the supporting layer of mentorship, aiding Lin Dong's evolution without dominating the heroic arc. The Yimo antagonists, representing demonic forces that escalate threats across the series, are brought to life by various actors, including Liu Yan as Mu Qianqian, a seductive infiltrator and holder of the Heavenly Seat King title who sows discord and embodies the insidious nature of Yimo corruption. These roles collectively amplify the perils, creating alliances and conflicts that test the protagonists' unity. Guest appearances enrich the world-building with brief but impactful portrayals, such as Xu Zhe as Lin Zhentian, Lin Dong's grandfather, who reinforces clan hierarchies and historical tensions in key familial scenes. These cameos provide contextual depth to the broader martial universe, linking personal vendettas to larger sectarian dynamics.

Production

Casting Process

The casting process for Martial Universe began in mid-2016, with initial announcements focusing on the lead roles to ensure actors capable of handling the series' intense wuxia action sequences. Yang Yang was confirmed as the male lead Lin Dong following negotiations over his salary, as earlier rumors suggested he had initially declined the role due to compensation concerns before accepting. The female lead roles saw some controversy during selection, with online recruitment notices and leaked makeup photos initially listing actress Jin Chen as Ying Huanhuan alongside for another lead. Ultimately, was cast as Ying Huanhuan, while Wang Likun took the role of Ling Qingzhu, reflecting adjustments to align with the production's vision for character dynamics and romantic chemistry. Supporting roles, including as Lin Langtian, were announced later that year to bolster the ensemble with performers experienced in martial arts genres. Challenges in casting centered on finding actors proficient in wuxia-style action, given the series' emphasis on fight and wirework; lead Yang Yang personally performed many stunts, undergoing rigorous preparation that included script study and physical training to execute "fist-to-flesh" combat scenes despite sustaining injuries. The production prioritized established young stars like Yang Yang, whose idol status and massive fanbase among youth audiences were key to driving viewership for the adaptation. For Season 2, the main cast remained unchanged, maintaining continuity without notable recasts due to scheduling, though chemistry between romantic pairs like Lin Dong and Ying Huanhuan was emphasized in promotional materials to sustain narrative appeal.

Filming and Visual Effects

The production of Martial Universe primarily took place at Xiangshan Global Studios in Xiangshan, province, , a major facility for Chinese television productions. Outdoor sequences, particularly those depicting cultivation and training in natural settings, were filmed in forested areas around to capture the genre's atmospheric landscapes. Filming for the series commenced in November 2016 but was paused due to an injury sustained by lead actor Yang Yang, resuming in September 2017 after a two-month delay to allow for his recovery from an ear injury. The overall filming schedule spanned from November 2016 to late October 2017, with for the series wrapping in late October 2017. , including effects integration, extended into mid-2018 to refine the fantasy elements. Visual effects played a key role in realizing the series' supernatural battles and mystical manifestations, with CGI employed for demonic encounters and symbolic talismans to enhance the choreography. The action sequences utilized wire-fu techniques for dynamic fight scenes, contributing to the show's high-energy combat depictions. Production faced challenges such as weather-related delays during outdoor shoots and additional actor injuries from intense physical demands, which further extended the timeline.

Music

Soundtrack

The soundtrack for Martial Universe was composed by An Wei, whose score blends traditional Chinese instruments such as the and with orchestral swells to underscore the series' cultivation sequences and action. This fusion creates an atmospheric depth that evokes the mystical and intense world of the story, particularly during moments of spiritual advancement and conflict. These compositions are strategically integrated with the pacing to amplify , ensuring transitions seamlessly from serene exploration to explosive confrontations. The , which includes a mix of original theme songs and score tracks, was released via on August 7, 2018, coinciding with the premiere of Season 1, allowing fans to experience the full musical elements outside the episodes. An Wei's score significantly enhances emotional beats, such as Lin Dong's breakthroughs, where swelling melodies and harmonious layers convey his inner turmoil and triumphant resolve, deepening viewer immersion in his journey.

Theme Songs

The opening theme for Martial Universe is "Mi" (谜), performed by Zhang Jie, which serves as the primary promotional vocal track across the series' two seasons. The lyrics, written by Zhang Ying and composed by Chen Xuerran, explore themes of destiny, , and the enigmatic forces shaping one's path, with lines evoking "clouds at the peak" and "a mystery turning through past, present, and future lives" to mirror the protagonist's martial ascent amid unpredictable fate. The ending theme, "Ni Wo Zhi Jian" (你我之间), is sung by Tanya Chua (蔡健雅), emphasizing enduring love and emotional bonds amid conflict, as captured in phrases like "a lifetime of deep affection only for you" and promises of holding hands through heaven and earth. This track varies slightly in arrangement between seasons to align with evolving romantic subplots, reinforcing the series' motifs of loyalty and sacrifice drawn from the source novel. An additional insert song, "Xing Kong" (星空) by the band Nanzheng Beizhan (NZBZ), features during key romantic arcs and highlights the leads' chemistry in its music video. Composed and written by the band, its lyrics delve into starry skies symbolizing vast emotions and inevitable tears, tying into the narrative's themes of heaven, earth, and interpersonal connections; the track was recorded in Beijing studios to integrate with the production's musical elements.

Release and Broadcast

Domestic Release

Martial Universe premiered in with a press conference held in on July 30, 2018, attended by lead actor Yang Yang and other cast members to promote the series. The event highlighted the adaptation's connection to the popular novel Wu Dong Qian Kun by Tian Can Tu Dou and featured discussions on the production's challenges. Promotional trailers released prior to the debut emphasized Yang Yang's portrayal of the protagonist Lin Dong, showcasing intense sequences and his character's journey from a marginalized youth to a powerful . The series aired its first season on Dragon TV and from August 7 to September 19, 2018, with episodes broadcast on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 22:00. Season 2 followed on from October 11 to November 7, 2018, maintaining the same weekly schedule and time slot. Each episode ran approximately 45 minutes, consisting of 40 episodes in Season 1 and 20 in Season 2. Episodes were available for simultaneous streaming on , where VIP subscribers received early access to select installments ahead of the standard broadcast. Marketing efforts included tie-ins with the original novel's publisher and limited merchandise such as replicas of in-story artifacts like the Stone Talisman, aimed at engaging fans of the source material. The release generated significant initial viewership, though detailed metrics are covered elsewhere.

Ratings

The first season of Martial Universe achieved an average viewership rating of 0.499% across CSM52 cities on Dragon TV, with the series ranking 3.51 in that metric overall. Ratings began at 0.285% upon premiere and climbed to a peak of 0.66% during later episodes, reflecting gradual audience buildup in the late-night slot. Online performance was significantly stronger, with reporting over 3.1 billion total streams by the end of , including 100 million views within the first 12 hours of release. The second season, which aired exclusively on without traditional TV broadcast, maintained robust digital engagement amid increased competition from other titles. It garnered approximately 4 billion streams overall, though specific TV ratings were not applicable due to its online-only format. Despite a slight dip in momentum compared to the first season—attributed to rival programming—the series demonstrated sustained online popularity, with daily plays ranging from 30 million to 60 million during peak weeks. In comparisons to contemporary xianxia dramas, Martial Universe secured top 10 positions in weekly CSMK rankings for online engagement during its run. Key factors influencing performance included a significant boost from lead actor Yang Yang's dedicated fandom, which drove social media buzz and early streams, alongside temporary dips during national holidays like the when viewership patterns shifted toward family-oriented content.

Reception

Critical Response

The critical response to Martial Universe has been notably mixed, with domestic audiences in expressing significant dissatisfaction, as evidenced by its average rating of 5.0 out of 10 on based on approximately 28,000 user ratings as of November 2025. This tepid reception stems largely from perceived shortcomings in storytelling and production execution, despite the series' ambitious adaptation of Tian Can Tu Dou's popular novel. In contrast, international viewers have been more favorable, awarding it 7.4 out of 10 on MyDramaList from 1,658 ratings and 8.8 out of 10 on Viki from 6,455 votes, highlighting its appeal in fantasy and genres abroad. Positive aspects frequently praised include the action choreography and , which leverage high-quality CGI to deliver dynamic fight sequences that capture the essence of combat. Reviewers on commended the "special effects and scenes" for their impressiveness, noting how they elevate the spectacle of cultivation battles and elements. Yang Yang's lead performance as Lin Dong also garnered acclaim for portraying the protagonist's evolution from a hot-headed youth to a resolute , with his physical transformation and emotional range adding authenticity to the character's arc; one MyDramaList review highlighted the effective makeup and that conveyed Lin Dong's maturation convincingly. These strengths contribute to the series' engaging portrayal of brotherhood and perseverance, resonating with fans of the genre. Criticisms, however, center on pacing issues, particularly in the cultivation montages and transitional scenes, which many described as monotonous and overly protracted, diluting the momentum between high-stakes action. users specifically pointed out "unnecessary conversations" and "long winded boring scenes" that hinder narrative flow. Adaptations deviations from the —such as altered character motivations and condensed plotlines—further frustrated fans, leading to accusations of diluting the source material's depth, as noted in discussions on fidelity to Tian Can Tu Dou's original vision. These elements contributed to the series' polarizing reputation, with some overseas reviews echoing domestic concerns about underdeveloped subplots. Thematically, Martial Universe explores through Lin Dong's quest to restore his family's honor after public humiliation, blending it with romance that develops gradually between the lead and his love interests, providing emotional counterbalance to the intense conflicts. This handling of revenge as a catalyst for personal growth mirrors motifs in Tian Can Tu Dou's other works, such as , where similar themes of redemption and romantic entanglements drive the narrative amid comparable CGI-enhanced action. While not universally lauded, the series' thematic focus on resilience amid adversity has been credited with broadening appeal, though some analyses critique the romance arcs for feeling secondary to the power progression.

Awards and Nominations

Martial Universe and its cast members garnered several awards and nominations in the years following its 2018 premiere, recognizing performances, production quality, and overall impact in the fantasy drama genre. Yang Yang received the VIP Star of the Year award at the 2018 Tencent Video All Star Awards for his lead role as Lin Dong. Zhang Tianai won the Breakthrough Actress Award (Weekly Drama) at the 2019 Quality Television Drama Ceremony for her portrayal of Ying Huanhuan. Overall, accumulated 5 nominations across ceremonies between 2018 and 2020, according to records. As of November 2025, no major new awards have been bestowed upon the series or its team, though it continues to feature prominently in enduring fan-voted polls for top fantasy dramas.

International Distribution

Regional Broadcasts

In , was streamed on starting in 2019, offering subtitles in Thai and Indonesian to cater to regional audiences. The series gained strong popularity in and , driven by the established fanbase in these countries, with fan-subbed versions widely available on platforms like Viki. Some markets required edits to tone down depictions of , adapting the content for local broadcasting standards.

Home Media and Streaming

The live-action series Martial Universe (–) has been made available on multiple streaming platforms since its , enhancing its for international audiences. It streams on Rakuten Viki with subtitles in English, Russian, Czech, and at least 11 additional languages, supporting global viewership through licensed distribution. In select regions, including parts of and , the series is offered on , where Season 1 episodes are available for subscription viewing. It is also available on Apple TV in various regions. Chinese platforms like provide on-demand access domestically and internationally via VPN, contributing to its cumulative online views exceeding 3.1 billion by the end of Season 1 in . The animated adaptation, also titled Martial Universe, has expanded the franchise's digital footprint, with seasons available on for international audiences with multilingual subtitles. As of 2025, Season 6 of the donghua is scheduled to premiere on November 20 on and its international arm WeTV, marking ongoing updates to the streaming catalog. The donghua is also available on Plex. Physical home media releases include DVD box sets of the live-action series, distributed in starting in December 2020 as an H-DVD collection covering all 40 episodes. Blu-ray editions with followed, becoming available through international retailers around 2021 in all-region formats for collectors outside . These editions have facilitated ownership for fans seeking high-definition physical copies with accessible language options.

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