The Legend and the Hero

Synopsis

The Legend and the Hero (封神榜之凤鸣岐山) is a 2006 Chinese television drama starring Fan Bingbing that adapts the classic Chinese novel "Fengshen Yanyi" (Investiture of the Gods). The series blends mythology, fantasy, and historical elements to narrate the epic tale of the fall of the Shang dynasty and the rise of the Zhou dynasty, intertwined with divine interventions and legendary heroes. It follows characters such as Jiang Ziya and Nezha as they navigate mortal and celestial conflicts, battling against corruption and striving for justice. With lavish production, intricate storytelling, and a star-studded cast, the show weaves themes of loyalty, valor, and destiny amidst mythical battles and political intrigue, offering viewers a grand tapestry of Chinese folklore and history.

Cast

• 

  Fan Bingbing

  Consort Da Ji

• 

  Ma Jingtao

  Di Xin (King Zhou of Shang)

• 

  Zhou Jie

  Ji Fa (King Wu of Zhou)

• 

  Eddie Kwan Lai-Kit

  Bo Yikao

• 

  Tang Guoqiang

  Yuanshi Tianzun

• 

  Xu Huanshan

  Wen Zhong

Reviews

Critics and audiences have exhibited a mixture of admiration and critique for The Legend and the Hero. On IMDb, it holds a moderate rating around 6.8/10, with viewers praising the show's ambitious scope and faithful adaptation of the folklore. Fans particularly appreciate Fan Bingbing's compelling performance and the visual effects that bring mythical creatures and battle scenes to life. However, some reviews, especially from international viewers, note that the pacing can be uneven, and the complex plot might be challenging for those unfamiliar with Chinese mythology. Metacritic does not have a dedicated score for this series, but Chinese media outlets acknowledge its cultural significance while pointing out that the special effects, though impressive for the time, occasionally appear dated compared to modern productions. Rotten Tomatoes has no formal rating due to its regional release and language, though fan forums highlight enthusiasm for the show's rich costumes and set designs. Overall, The Legend and the Hero is praised for its ambition and cultural depth but seen as a show best appreciated by fans of traditional Chinese fantasy and historical epics.