A Chinese Ghost Story
(Qian Nu You Hun)
This Taiwanese serial (or strictly speaking, a collaboration again, between Taiwan, China and Singapore), A Chinese Ghost Story (Qian Nu You Hun), which even before its official release has somehow caused a stir and eager anticipation because of the 1987 highly successful movie with the same title (a sequel in 1989 too) starring the late Leslie Cheung and Joey Wong. To be more precise, the movie is a classic in Hong Kong movie history. Qian Nu You Hun is adapted from one of the stories from the novel Liao Zhai by Pu Songling.
Just to add, except for the main characters and perhaps the first few episodes, there are no other similarities between this TV adaptation and the movie version. What makes this serial captivating is attributed more to the numerous complex but innovative sub-plots, which are all somehow cleverly linked to the main plot in a subtle way. Basically, there are two opposing forces, the demonic Yinyue Empire and the righteous Xuanxin Sect.
Starting with a genuine interest to catch this serial, in part due to the movie and also because of the fresh pairing of Hong Kong singer Daniel Chan and Taiwanese singer/actress Barbie Hsu (Da S), ironically, it turns out that what has sustained my continued interest in this serial is not this supposedly main couple, but rather the draw of other factors. Daniel Chan, obviously, is in need of more acting lessons. Not only did he not succeed in bringing out the innocence and kind-heartedness of the character Ning Caichen (which has been brilliantly portrayed by Leslie Cheung), he has failed miserably in creating his own memorable and unique brand. The same goes for Barbie Hsu, although her acting is much more bearable. She is cute and has nice, fair complexion. However, she lacks the beauty and gracefulness of Joey Wong. Her level of chemistry with Daniel Chan is practically zero. A supposedly beautiful love story (Caichen and Xiaoqian), sadly, has been reduced to a boring and draggy one, in part due to bad acting, and the script written for this couple in here. Simply put, both leads have failed to evoke any feelings in me, leaving me emotionless.
Perhaps, without the burden of comparison with the movie or what, somehow, it is those new characters with their distinct personalities and adequate role progress, who truly shine. Among them are the capable and independent practitioner of the invincible Xuanxin Mystic, Yan Hongye (Jessica Hsuan), jovial and devoted half demon half human, Zhuge Liuyun (Wu Jing) and the suave and awesome demon lord, Qiye (Nie Yuan). The character who has left the most unforgettable impression on me is none other than the ultra cool, devoted, yet pitiful, Qiye, who is forced to lie at the crossroads of evil and good. His wish has always been that demons and humans could co-exist amicably one day. His selflessness when it comes to love (even when unrequited) is heartrending. Nie Yuan was a new face to me, but now his portrayal of Qiye is imprinted in my memory. In the last few episodes, my heart completely goes out to him. Accomplished veteran artistes like Tian Niu and Yuen Wah are at their usual best in here, as the resourceful Sima Sanniang and highly skilled Yan Chixia respectively.
The central theme is love and hence, throughout the serial, there are many romantic relationships, of which the main focus is placed on the Star Crossed Lovers. No couple really moves me. However, if I have to choose a more memorable one out of all, then it would be the short romance between Zhuge Liuyun and the white-haired Hongye. Honestly speaking, as the serial proceeds, I had this thought that it would have been a great idea if the scriptwriter could take a further step in developing the relationship between the sweet-looking Snow Demon, Xiaoxue (Xia Yuqiao), and Qiye. Sadly, that was merely plain wishful thinking on my part. *sigh* In my view, she is the one who really understands and cares for him. They also do look pretty compatible.
Another drawing factor, undoubtedly, is the array of guest stars in here. Be it the extremely brief appearance by Gallen Lo as Liudao Mojun, Amy Chan as Lanmo, or Sheren Tang as Su Tianxin, to some extent, they all have contributed to making this serial more engaging. In particular, Lanmo's story, to me, is the most emotional segment of the entire show. The mother-son relationship between her and Zhuge Liuyun is pretty touching.
I am actually glad that this serial has reused the classic theme song from the movie. It brings back fond memories. The background music (mainly instrumental variations of the opening song to fit the mood, where appropriate) is one aspect that I like. The ending song by Daniel Chan grows on one too. What is very disappointing is the lame and dull ending (What's up with all those cheesy endings these days?? *shrugs* ). It is so anti-climatic compared to all the excitement and tension in the first half of the last episode. Darn...that spoils the whole thing.
Overall, Qian Nu You Hun is still considered a worthy catch, with all those bizarre and refreshing subplots (even though some parts can be a bit confusing and questionable) and dazzling special effects and fighting scenes. For me, it's a relaxing feeling to simply immerse oneself in the world of fantasy and mystical beliefs, and let imagination run freely, given the stressful life in the real world. Laudable performances turned in by most of the cast further heighten the appeal of this serial.
Screenshots:
http://www.cts.com.tw/prog/drama/ghost/
