The Classic of Mountains and Seas

Using echoes from ancient literature, this drama centers on a prince who is left to face a cruel future after a prophecy brands him a danger to his father. Raised apart from the inner circle, he grows under the shadow of a royal secret that marks every choice he makes. As he comes of age, a fierce inner rivalry unfolds, pulling him between the ideals of mercy and the pull of darker impulses. The series follows his ascent through a divided realm while the weight of fate presses on him, testing loyalties, friendships, and the limits of what a prince can become when the past refuses to release its grip. Its fate hovers over him, shaping every political choice.

Released in 2016, The Classic of Mountains and Seas is directed by Chu Yui-bun and Hu Yaozhi. The series adapts a venerable classical text into a lavish drama that blends mythic atmosphere with modern television craft.

Critical chatter centers on the show's approach to fate and duty, delivered through a character driven plot and striking visuals. Led by Hans Zhang as the conflicted royal, with Gulnezer Bextiyar, Kenny Kwan, Gao Weiguang and Leo Wu delivering strong supporting turns, the drama builds a tense tapestry of loyalties and power. The narrative keeps the focus on internal conflict rather than simple good versus evil, exploring how lineage and prophecy shape choice, legitimacy, and the personal costs of leadership. The performances inject warmth into the weighty myth.

Since its release, the show has rekindled interest in classical myths by translating age-old motifs into a contemporary epic. Its visual language and ensemble performances have earned attention from fans of mythic dramas, helping broaden the audience for period-inspired fantasy on television. The title adds to a growing conversation about destiny versus autonomy and the ways stories from the past still resonate in modern screens. It has spurred discussions on how mythic storytelling can coexist with fast-paced action.