User reviews

I can say Mysterious Lotus Casebook is an angst drama and I won't recommend it if you want to watch a light storyline. The storyline is so complicated and has a lot of plot twists, yet it is also comedic at the same time. But this drama is fascinating. Although it contains a lot of mystery/criminal cases, it has powerful character-building and development. I love how the main characters try to understand themselves and take every problem logically. By far, Mysterious Lotus Casebook has the best wuxia adaptation scriptwriting by showing how every scene and every character is important and not rushed to the ending, unlike many other wuxia dramas.

This drama is a suspenseful detective story. It revolves around Li Xiangyi, a martial arts expert who suffered severe injuries in a great battle and then retired from the martial world. He assumed the name Li Lianhua and became involved in solving various mysteries, helping people, and revealing the truth. What intrigues me the most about this drama is the flawless action scenes performed by Cheng Yi. His martial arts skills appear so authentic that it feels like he truly possesses them. When he portrays Li Lianhua, I can sense the distinct difference from his portrayal of Li Xiangyi. The production took four years of preparation involving numerous behind-the-scenes staff. The story is captivating, and the pacing is tight, which is quite rare. I hope there won't be any malicious ratings for it.

Most martial arts always talk about how a person with extraordinary talent/kindness grows into a generation of heroes. However, "Lotus casebook" is quite the opposite. It tells how a person who once stood at the top, suffered drastic changes, sliding from the summit to be an ordinary person, and even lost everything. A story about how to let it go, how to live a real life. Li Lianhua's reconciliation with the world and with himself is the most touching part of the this story.

Lilianhua's martial arts moves are gorgeous and flexible, rich in imagination, it is a great visual feast.

Li lianhua's change represents a person's true maturity and understanding. Li lianhua understands the world, that he is only a participant after all, not the master; he understands how to examine the success and failure of the life, the princely hegemony, from the perspective of an ordinary person; He understood that, people have to accept that no matter how dazzling we were, we are just an ordinary one among all living beings.

LianHuaLou is currently the much talked about Chinese drama. It has received very positive and favourable feedback from netizens and drama followers since the first few days of broadcasting. The leading character, Chengyi played 2 distinctive roles - Li Xiangyi & Li Lianhua - proved his multifaceted acting power. The storyline is propulsive and not only mind-boggling but offering audience lots of thrills in solving the mysteries together. Chengyi's play as Li Xiangyi and Li Lianhua are especially highly commendable; so lively and vividly portrayed that it is as if the novel character is walking out of the book and turning up in the TV! One of the famous scenes is the Red Silk Swordplay by Li Xiangyi on the rooftop in Episode 9 which is incredibly awesome that you would regret for missing it.

I would say this is the best action drama this year.

The plot is attractive, and the rhythm arrangement is perfect too. Please watch it and I can assure you that you will love it.

I personally adore how Cheng Yi portrays the character of Li Xiang Yi and Li Lian Hua. You can really tell the difference between the two. The two are distinctly different from one another. From Li Xiang Yi, who once held the title of first in the world, to Li Lian Hua, who was betrayed, injured, and went through his own difficulties before finding atonement and finally letting go.

When watching the drama, you will only think that he is Li Lian Hua, there is no indication of acting. A good actor who can elicit empathy is uncommon Worth watching!

It is the long awaited martial art drama for me, has been following since production. The drama is based on novel of Lian Hua Lou Ji Xiang Wen (a moving caravan engraved with lotus design) and it tells the story about a hero who chose to lead a normal life after injury and his adventures in resolving mystical cases through his wisdom and skills, and he is moving around with his lotus caravan!

Love the acting of the main lead, Cheng Yi. He is playing dual role in the drama as Li Lian Hua, Li Xiang Yi, and he never disappoints me with his ability to connect with the audience through the character emotions.

Best martial art drama and the best summer drama in 2023 for me!

I decide to watch the drama because the fighting at the begining was very impressive, however, it turned out that it was the only best sense throughout epi 1 to 40. Astory continue, it turns to be very difference. It really bothering with simple story line, an a simple investigation like any other drama that feel very mudane. The main lead is stupid and stubborn, keep waiting to die from the start til the end. It just a repeat of the same plot. The second lead is very annoying, and the chemistry is zero too! What should be more interesting is the third lead, then have a strong character, but been putting away from the drama and appear very less! Suck!

I dont know what happened to the low rating, but this drama is amazing, impressive, and incredible! ChengYi is talented and he shows great prowess at acting. His acting makes me believe he's actually going through whatever his character is going through. The storyline of this drama is novel and full of quirky detail. A spiteful low rating review is disgraceful. I dont know what happened to the low rating, but this drama is amazing, impressive, and incredible! ChengYi is talented and he shows great prowess at acting. His acting makes me believe he's actually going through whatever his character is going through. The storyline of this drama is novel and full of quirky detail. A spiteful low rating review is disgraceful.

It is one of the best I have seen so far. Trully interesting with lots of twists and turns. A bit of drama, detective story, unrequited love - crazy obsession, martial arts, crazy hunger for power, mystery, comedy and yet it is not just thriwn in a pot to simmer it is well developed and keeps you hooked. There is character development and you just want to know more about all of their past and what they strive to. The actors did a marvelous job! The male trio, if you can call them that, was exceptional and totally believable. The female villain also greayly done. Don't want to spoil it for others. Trully a must see! Highly recommend it to everyone!!!

Cheng Yi's roles of Li Lianhua and Li Xiangyi in this play are amazing. Li Xiangyi is a young and promising man, endowed with chivalry in the Jianghu and the best martial arts in the world. Li Xiangyi, who dares to love and hate, is the Bai Yueguang of many people. But he became Li Lianhua after being poisoned by a plot against him. It took Li Lianhua ten years to finally put aside the grievances of the rivers and lakes before, and only wanted to live the rest of her life in a chic way. He doesn't want to pay attention to the past, and the morality of the rivers and lakes will always be in his heart and set foot on his own road. This drama tells us that we have experienced hardships and ups and downs in life, so we should learn to rest assured and find our own inner chivalry.

Lotus Casebook is The best drama of the year! Great storyline and great scenes Beautiful costumes and excellent entertaining characters. Excellent interpretation from the actors . Love the scenery.....Cheng Yi marvelous performance, excellent execution, amazing acting skills. I enjoyed watching him so much...His characters are so cute and funny and so sad at the same time, I really like how he can make the characters look so real. He totally touched my heart. Li lien Hua ,Director Di , Fang Dobing love their friendship and their relationship to each other. I enjoy watching them together. I recommend watching the drama.

I started this drama with pretty low expectations since C-dramas generally aren't my cup of tea. The long episodes, slow plots, and often flat acting just don't hold my attention.. But wow, Mysterious Lotus Casebook surprised me in the best way. This isn't just another martial arts drama. It's easily the most solid one I've seen in recent years. The fight scenes are beautiful, not the overedited, flashy type with tons of slow motion and CGI like you see in many idol dramas. These fights feel real, like you're right there in the middle of them. So intense, but beautifully done.

Plot-wise, it's built around a series of cases, and while some of them get wrapped up a bit too fast, they still keep you curious and engaged. What really makes this show shine though is the chemistry between the characters. Li Lianhua with all his layers, Fang Duobing who's like an energetic puppy chasing approval, and A-Fei, the tough guy with major tsundere vibes. Some of their scenes had me literally laughing out loud. If you enjoy bromance dynamics, this one goes hard.

But for me, the heart of the drama is Cheng Yi's performance as Li Lianhua/Li Xiangyi. He's absolutely brilliant. Usually we see stories about nobodies rising to become heroes, but this is the opposite. What happens when the "best of the best" falls and becomes a nobody? Li Lianhua teaches us that life is actually simple, but it's people's expectations (and our egos) that make it complicated. When it ended, I genuinely cried for days. His story hit that hard.

Btw, I honestly don't get the random one-star bombs. Seems suspicious, like some kind of organized campaign to tank the score. But don't let that noise fool you. This drama is a gem. If you want Martial Arts drama with real heart, great action, and unforgettable characters, this is a must watch.

Great performance from Cheng Yi from start to finish, with artistic and realistic wuxia fights/ kung-fu moves makes it a very believable drama. Throughout the episodes, I don't feel like he is acting, rather, he makes the characters, especially, Lilianhua as if he is a living soul, just in a different dimension. I noticed his pace of "performance" is a little bit different from others, eg small pauses, realistic expressions in response to others etc. This is why his character is very "real". A very enjoyable light-hearted drama about wuxia and its world , that at the end, reflects upon life itself, creates a life-long impression on me. Highly recommended, for everyone, young or old.

Cheng Yi's acting? Mid at best. I don't usually leave bad reviews, but seeing his fans drag other people's shows for no reason? Yeah, that ticked me off. Like, seriously-WTF is wrong with y'all?"

"Just enjoy your fave in peace, damn. Why you gotta act pressed all the time?"

"Now I'm pissed. You come for my fave, I'll come for yours. Simple. Cry louder, maybe someone will care. Jealous much? Just admit it and take your drama somewhere far, far away.

Joseph saved this drama. His cheerful character really made it enjoyable for me. Same goes for Fei's role-both of them brought life to the story.

Cheng Yi? Nahhh, just mid, sis. Decent, but nothing special. I seriously don't get the hype around this dude. Like, why are people acting like he's the second coming of drama gods? Chill, please-he's not that deep."

"Ugh, it's annoying how overhyped he is. The bar is on the floor and y'all still tripping over it.

The action scenes in Mysterious Lotus Casebook are nothing short of spectacular, showcasing impressive choreography, dynamic camera work, and a strong sense of rhythm that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Cheng Yi delivers a phenomenal performance-his nuanced expressions, precise emotional control, and ability to portray both strength and vulnerability bring incredible depth to his character. Even when the storyline has some flaws, his acting more than makes up for it. His presence alone elevates the entire drama, making it a truly worthwhile watch for fans of martial arts, mystery, and emotionally resonant storytelling.

Stop the malicious smear campaign by a faction of Xiao Zhan's fans, who have resorted to flooding both domestic and international review platforms with one-star ratings against Mysterious Lotus Casebook. Such behavior is not only petty and transparent but deeply disrespectful to the artistry and effort poured into this exceptional drama. These ratings do nothing to elevate your idol-instead, they expose an ugly side of fan culture that tarnishes the reputation of Chinese entertainment on the global stage.

Cheng Yi, the lead actor of Mysterious Lotus Casebook, has proven himself to be a performer of rare caliber. His portrayal of Li Lianhua is a tour de force-subtle, restrained, and devastatingly human. He does not rely on gimmicks or hype, but on skill, depth, and emotional truth. Attempts to discredit such a performance out of fan rivalry only highlight the insecurity of those who recognize, perhaps begrudgingly, that they are witnessing the rise of a true actor's actor.

Mysterious Lotus Casebook is more than just a beautifully crafted wuxia drama; it's a rare showcase of nuanced storytelling and emotional depth, brought to life by the exceptional performance of Cheng Yi. As the seemingly carefree Li Lianhua, Cheng Yi delivers a masterclass in subtle, layered acting. His portrayal is at once playful and melancholic, effortlessly revealing the character's inner wounds beneath his serene surface.

Cheng Yi is a true chameleon. Whether embodying righteous swordsmen, tragic heroes, or complex anti-heroes, he disappears into every role. His transformative ability is not just a result of technical training, but an intuitive talent that is rarely seen. And yet, despite his extraordinary skill, he remains criminally underrated.

The harsh reality is that in China's entertainment industry, access to quality roles and visibility is too often dictated by capital interests and favoritism. Resources are concentrated in the hands of investors and agencies with their own agendas, frequently sidelining truly talented actors like Cheng Yi in favor of more marketable or connected figures.

Mysterious Lotus Casebook serves as a reminder of what the industry could be if merit were the deciding factor. Cheng Yi doesn't just act-he elevates the entire narrative. One can only hope that with more roles like this, his brilliance will no longer go overlooked.

The award winning Chinese drama Mysterious Lotus Casebook is the best of the year in my opinion, main character played by Cheng Yi draws the audience to laugh and cry with him in the course of his rather short span of life. This is a story about the falling of a young hero from the top to a layman. Unlike most hero story of a nobody grown to be a hero, Li Lian Hua has a retrograde life.

The play is adapted from Teng Ping's novel "Lotus with Auspicious Patterns". It tells the story of Li Xiangyi (played by Cheng Yi), the famous martial arts master of the Sigu Sect, who was seriously injured after a war and retired from the world to become the "miracle doctor" Li Lianhua who is indifferent to fame and fortune. A story of him getting rolled into the world again. Undercurrents are surging, and the mysterious cases are complicated and confusing. Only by peeling off the cocoons can the truth be revealed. A heart-stirring chivalrous love to unfold passionately.

A 8.5 score at Douban reviewed by around 575,000 people. It is no coincidence.

This Chinese drama is a brilliant masterpiece that deserves nothing less than a perfect 10/10 rating. It effortlessly weaves together intricate storytelling, mesmerizing visuals, and outstanding performances to create an unforgettable viewing experience.

The storyline is a work of art in itself, meticulously crafted with depth and complexity. Each character is brought to life with such authenticity that you can't help but become emotionally invested in their journeys. From heart-wrenching moments that bring tears to your eyes to heartwarming scenes that fill you with joy, this drama takes you on an emotional rollercoaster that you won't soon forget.

The cinematography and production quality are nothing short of breathtaking. The attention to detail in capturing the rich cultural tapestry of China adds an extra layer of authenticity to the narrative. Whether it's the sweeping landscapes, intricately designed costumes, or the stunning cinematography, every frame is a visual treat.

The performances by the cast are nothing less than stellar. The actors bring their characters to life with such depth and nuance that you feel like you're right there with them, experiencing their triumphs and tribulations. Their chemistry and on-screen presence are simply captivating.

In a world filled with countless dramas, this Chinese masterpiece stands head and shoulders above the rest. It not only entertains but also touches your heart, leaving a lasting impression. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the talent of those involved in its creation. If you haven't watched it yet, it's an absolute must-see for any drama enthusiast. This is a drama that sets the bar high and defines what true brilliance in storytelling looks like.

Lian Hua Lou is a new type of drama, combined with Martial arts and Mystery.

China had been famous for KONG FU. But, Chinese people prefer martial arts characters more. In the past the most famous martial arts novels were made by Hong Kong and Taiwan writers.

It is the first-time mainland had its' own great master Li Xiang Yi. It is a milestone. Should you want to Understand the core of Chinese culture please enjoy the drama.

Lian Hua Lou had 10 mysterious cases. If you like Detective Conan Lian Hua Lou would be your best choice.

Actors-Cheng Yi, Zeng Shun Xi , Xiao Shun Rao and characters are very appropriate. It is fun for 3 brothers's story. The highest number of viewers for one episode at the same time is more than 1 Million. It shows how popular Lian Hua Lou in China.

Recommend this Drama.

Mysterious Lotus Casebook is not just another wuxia drama-it is a transcendent exploration of human resilience, identity, and the search for inner peace. With its deeply philosophical narrative, stunning production, and Cheng Yi's career-defining performance as Li Lianhua, this series stands as one of the finest offerings in recent Chinese television. It is a rare work that balances intellectual depth with emotional intensity, all while delivering some of the most beautifully choreographed fight scenes in the genre.

A Story That Transcends Wuxia Tropes At its core, Mysterious Lotus Casebook is a meditation on fate, redemption, and the cost of legacy. Unlike conventional martial arts tales that glorify revenge or power, this series follows Li Lianhua, a once-legendary swordsman who has retreated from the world after a devastating downfall. His journey is one of quiet introspection, as he grapples with past regrets while seeking a new purpose.

What sets Mysterious Lotus Casebook apart is its refusal to simplify its protagonist's struggles. Li Lianhua is neither a traditional hero nor a tragic villain-he is a man burdened by wisdom and sorrow, navigating a world that has moved on without him. The narrative challenges viewers to reflect on themes of forgiveness, self-worth, and the meaning of true strength. The script avoids melodrama, instead opting for subtle, poignant moments that linger in the mind long after each episode ends.

Cheng Yi's Masterful Portrayal of Li Lianhua Cheng Yi's performance is nothing short of extraordinary. He doesn't just play Li Lianhua-he becomes him, embodying the character's weariness, wit, and quiet nobility with astonishing precision. His portrayal is a masterclass in subtlety; a single glance can convey years of regret, while a faint smile hints at resilience beneath the sorrow.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Cheng Yi's acting is how he captures Li Lianhua's physical and emotional duality. Once a peerless martial artist, now a wandering physician with a weakened body, Li Lianhua moves with deliberate slowness, yet his eyes remain sharp, reflecting a mind still keenly aware of the world's dangers. Cheng Yi makes this contrast believable, ensuring that even in stillness, Li Lianhua exudes presence.

The emotional depth he brings to key scenes-whether reflecting on lost comrades, confronting his past, or forming reluctant bonds with new allies-elevates the drama beyond typical wuxia fare. His chemistry with the supporting cast, particularly in mentor-like interactions, adds warmth to a character who could have been overly somber. Cheng Yi ensures that Li Lianhua is not just a figure of tragedy but also of quiet hope.

The Art of Combat: Grace and Power in Motion While Mysterious Lotus Casebook prioritizes philosophy and character development, its martial arts sequences are equally mesmerizing-thanks in large part to Cheng Yi's exceptional physical performance. Unlike flashy, over-the-top wuxia fights, the combat here is purposeful, blending elegance with raw intensity to mirror Li Lianhua's inner conflict.

Several duels stand out as highlights:

The Flashback Duel (Past Glory vs. Present Fragility) - In scenes depicting Li Lianhua's prime, Cheng Yi moves with fluid, almost poetic precision, his swordplay effortless and commanding. These moments starkly contrast with his present-day fights, where his movements are slower, yet still calculated-proof of a warrior relying on experience rather than physical prowess.

The Bamboo Forest Fight (Beauty in Restraint) - One of the most visually stunning sequences involves Li Lianhua defending himself with minimal movement, using his opponent's momentum against them. Cheng Yi's control here is impeccable, making every parry and counterattack feel like a dance.

The Climactic Battle (Emotional Weight Meets Martial Mastery) - The final confrontation is not just a test of skill but of Li Lianhua's resolve. Cheng Yi balances ferocity with exhaustion, making it clear that this is a man fighting not for victory, but for closure.

The choreography avoids unnecessary flamboyance, instead emphasizing realism and emotional stakes. Cheng Yi's background in dance and martial arts training shines through, as he executes each move with both grace and impact.

Production: A Visual and Auditory Feast Beyond its narrative and performances, Mysterious Lotus Casebook is a technical marvel. The cinematography captures the ethereal beauty of Li Lianhua's lotus-filled retreat, juxtaposing serene landscapes with the turmoil of his past. The score, blending traditional Chinese instruments with haunting melodies, enhances every emotional beat without overpowering the scenes.

Costume and set design further immerse viewers in the world. Li Lianhua's robes, once grand and now worn, mirror his journey from glory to humility. The attention to detail in every frame reinforces the series' themes of impermanence and rebirth.

Final Verdict: A Modern Wuxia Classic Mysterious Lotus Casebook is a triumph on every level-intellectually profound, emotionally resonant, and visually breathtaking. Cheng Yi delivers what may be the performance of his career, transforming Li Lianhua into one of the most compelling characters in wuxia history. His ability to convey depth through stillness, combined with his mesmerizing fight sequences, makes this drama unforgettable.

For fans of martial arts epics that prioritize storytelling over spectacle, Mysterious Lotus Casebook is a must-watch. It is a rare series that lingers in the heart and mind, proving that true strength lies not in invincibility, but in the courage to face one's own humanity.

Rating: 10/10 - A flawless blend of philosophy, artistry, and martial brilliance.

The cases in Mysterious Lotus Casebook are, frankly, not the strongest part of the series. They're passable - serviceable as plot devices - but they don't offer much in the way of suspense or deduction. What truly anchors the show is not the mystery, but the mood: a lingering sense of resignation, a quiet kind of grace, and a heavy layer of wuxia melancholy.

This isn't a story that's really about solving crimes. It's about letting go.

Li Lianhua, having learned to live with loss, has only a fraction of his former strength left - one-tenth of his martial arts, and perhaps one-tenth of the drive that once pushed him to the top of Jianghu. But what he gains instead is freedom. There is joy in his simplicity, peace in his detachment. Li Xiangyi is dead; Li Lianhua will live a long life.

Cheng Yi's performance captures this transformation with remarkable precision. He gives Li Lianhua a delicate balance of three parts nonchalance, three parts hidden heroism, and four parts quiet resignation. He's not greedy, but he loves money; he sees through the world, but still chooses kindness. There's a serenity to him that doesn't feel performative - only someone who has truly let go of the past can smile like that. And Cheng Yi delivers that smile, and all its weight, perfectly.

I rewatched the series during a quiet holiday break, thinking I'd just skim a few episodes for nostalgia. Instead, I found myself unable to leave Lotus Tower. I stayed. Watched every moment again. Because somewhere in this beautifully crafted world, I saw a reflection of myself.

We are all Li Xiangyi once - young, proud, believing the world is ours to conquer. And we all become Li Lianhua eventually - a little tired, a little wiser, still carrying traces of that fire, but learning that survival is not about victory. It's about peace.

The show's brilliance lies not in dramatic spectacle, but in emotional truth. It captures a stage of life few dramas ever touch - that moment when you realize you've stepped away from the version of yourself you used to dream of becoming, and somehow... it's okay. You're still here. You've chosen a quieter road, and it's yours. And those shining, reckless, beautiful fragments of ambition you once held - the ones you thought were wasted - live on in characters like Li Xiangyi. That's the gift this drama gives its viewers.

There are no big answers in life. So choose the ending that comforts you.

Let the legend die. Let the wanderer live.