Fangs of Fortune: Whose grand dream is it, and who will ultimately depart?

Fangs of Fortune is a unique experience, one that evokes mixed feelings and provokes thought. Here is a detailed perspective on its reception and some standout moments.

A Polarizing First Impression

Many on platforms like TikTok described the show as incomprehensible—its plot vague and characters lacking depth, dismissing it as nothing more than a parade of attractive actors who were, ironically, neither particularly “handsome” nor “beautiful.” Such strong criticism intrigued me. The contrarian in me was drawn to this show, curious about what made it so widely debated. Thus, I approached Fangs of Fortune with skepticism and an open mind.

Initial Observations

From the opening sequence in Episode 1, expectations hovered around mediocrity. Yet, the narrative, steeped in Chinese mythology, soon brought intrigue. The protagonist Zhu Yan—derived from a creature in The Classic of Mountains and Seas—offered a glimmer of hope. The concept of blending mythical elements with a fantastical storyline initially sparked my interest.

Layers of Tragedy

What kept me watching was not just the fantasy but the profound tragedy embedded in Zhu Yan’s character arc. The duality of Zhu Yan, also known as Zhao Yuanzhou, as both a powerful demon and a victim of his own uncontrollable nature, added depth. The blood moon’s curse and his struggle to end his existence to prevent further destruction painted a poignant picture of inner turmoil and sacrifice.

The story’s emotional gravity, however, was offset by comedic moments, which allowed for brief respites from its otherwise heavy themes. This balance kept the narrative engaging without becoming overwhelmingly somber.

Shifting Expectations

What began as an apparent investigation drama set between two factions—Jiyosi and Chongwuying—soon evolved into a series of interconnected tales of love and loss. As secondary characters emerged, each brought their unique storylines filled with heartbreak and sacrifice. These tragic love stories turned what seemed like a conventional fantasy-drama into a poignant anthology of human emotions.

The Turning Point

Episodes 16 and 17 left me both frustrated and impressed. Zhao Yuanzhou’s “foolproof” plan to bring peace backfired catastrophically. While he intended to orchestrate his own demise to rid the world of his curse, the emotional and moral complexities of the people around him unraveled his vision. Grandfather Yingzhao’s sacrifice added a layer of pathos, while the reactions of his comrades highlighted the emotional weight of his choices.

A Broader Reflection

Beyond its flaws, the show explores profound philosophical questions. Are we mere vessels of destiny, or do we have the agency to rewrite our fate? For Zhao Yuanzhou, burdened as a “container” for malevolent energy, his life was a testament to this struggle. The narrative challenges viewers to empathize with a deeply flawed character, evoking both pity and sorrow.

Verdict

The initial criticism of Fangs of Fortune as shallow or incoherent misses the mark. While it is far from perfect, the layers of mythology, moral dilemmas, and its exploration of complex human emotions make it a compelling watch. The mix of tragedy, comedy, and fantasy creates a tapestry that deserves more than its early dismissal.

With its blend of mythology, emotional depth, and a unique storytelling approach, this series deserves a chance—not for its superficial attributes but for the poignant questions it raises about destiny, sacrifice, and humanity.

For all its imperfections, Fangs of Fortune remains a dream worth experiencing. My contrarian instinct paid off, as this series transcended my expectations, earning a solid 5/5.