Hanson and the Beast

Hanson and the Beast is a 2017 Chinese fantasy romance film starring Liu Yifei that weaves a tale of love between the human world and the supernatural. The story follows Yan Hanson, a stern and pragmatic tax collector in the spirit realm, who crosses paths with Xiao Bai, a youthful and carefree beast of myth. As they navigate their drastically different worlds, an unexpected bond forms, challenging both to rethink their beliefs and priorities. Combining elements of mythology, romance, and adventure, the film offers a visually rich narrative that explores themes of love, destiny, and coexistence between humans and mystical creatures.

Hanson and the Beast received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 5.3/10, indicating average to below-average reception. Critics praised the film's imaginative world-building and Liu Yifei's charming performance, noting that her portrayal brought warmth and credibility to the fantasy story. The visual effects and production design were highlighted positively for creating an immersive supernatural environment. However, several reviews pointed out the film's predictable plot and uneven pacing. Some critics felt that the storyline relied too heavily on fantasy clichés without offering fresh twists. On platforms like Rotten Tomatoes, the movie lacks a sufficient number of critic reviews to generate a metascore, yet audience feedback hints at disappointment among those seeking a deeper narrative. Overall, Hanson and the Beast appeals primarily to fans of fantasy romance looking for light entertainment but may not satisfy viewers expecting a more complex or emotionally compelling story.