No Sparks Fly: 'A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality' Shakes Up Expectations on Romance in Chinese Dramas
"A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality," a drama adaptation of Wang Yu's novel of the same name, has captured the attention of audiences, but not solely for the reasons one might expect. The series, which premiered on July 27th, 2024, features Yang Yang as the protagonist Han Li and Jin Chen as Nan Gongwan. Despite the high expectations for their on-screen chemistry, the consensus among viewers, particularly on platforms like Weibo, is that the pair lacks the anticipated romantic spark, or "CP (couple) chemistry."
2 August 2025
This sentiment, encapsulated in the trending topic "#杨洋金晨没有CP感#" (Yang Yang Jin Chen have no CP chemistry), has sparked widespread discussion. Yet, the absence of a strong romantic storyline is not without its justification. Viewers and fans of the original novel point out that the source material is inherently a male-oriented cultivation narrative where the emphasis is on the protagonist's journey to immortality rather than his romantic entanglements.
The drama's deviation from the conventional romantic subplot to spotlight the cultivation journey, action sequences, and visual effects has been well-received. Both Yang Yang and Jin Chen have garnered praise for their individual performances. Jin Chen, in particular, is applauded for her "fairy-like" demeanor and the grace she brings to her action scenes, attributed to her background in dance. This shift in focus from romantic development to individual and action-oriented narratives suggests a maturation in audience preferences, signaling to producers the potential of diversifying storylines beyond romance.
The drama's reception also underlines the power of platforms like Weibo in shaping public opinion and in influencing the trajectories of narratives in Chinese dramas. The use of hashtags to express collective sentiments on specific aspects of the series, such as the lack of CP chemistry, illustrates the dynamic interplay between fan culture, online discourse, and creative production in the entertainment industry.
Interestingly, the preference for narratives centered on personal growth and achievement over romance may reflect broader societal desires for escapism and stories of individual triumph. The emphasis on traditional gender roles, with male-centric narratives like "A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality," underscores the enduring influence of patriarchal themes in Chinese media.
While the discussions around Yang Yang and Jin Chen's on-screen chemistry do not directly intersect with political issues, they offer insights into the evolving landscape of Chinese entertainment, which is increasingly subject to government directives promoting "positive values" and cultural narratives that align with national identity and strength.
The success of "A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality" and its unconventional approach to storytelling, particularly in downplaying romance, indicates a shift in what audiences are seeking in entertainment. This could inform future production decisions and potentially shape the global perception of Chinese dramas, highlighting the rich tapestry of narratives that extend beyond the common tropes of romance.
