Top Donghua of 2021: A Look at the Best Chinese Animated Series
2021 was a phenomenal year for Donghua, with a plethora of stunning visuals, compelling stories, and innovative animation techniques. It was a year that showcased the vast potential and impressive strides of Chinese animation on the global stage. Here are some of the top Donghua series that captivated audiences worldwide:
1. Heaven Official's Blessing (Tian Guan Ci Fu)
Based on the popular novel by MXTX, Heaven Official's Blessing tells the story of Xie Lian, a fallen god, and his journey to reclaim his former glory. With its beautiful animation, moving soundtrack, and captivating characters, the series resonated with viewers, earning praise for its complex themes of redemption, second chances, and the power of love.
2. The Daily Life of the Immortal King (Shenmu Fengyun)
This comedic fantasy series follows the daily life of Wang Ling, a seemingly ordinary high school student who secretly possesses immense supernatural powers. The Daily Life of the Immortal King features a unique blend of humor, action, and heartwarming moments, making it a popular choice for viewers seeking lighthearted entertainment.
**3. Scissor Seven (Qi Man) **
This action-comedy series follows the story of a clumsy but determined assassin named "Scissor Seven," who embarks on various missions while navigating his personal life. Scissor Seven is known for its sharp humor, exciting fight scenes, and charming characters, making it a beloved entry in the Donghua world.
4. The King's Avatar (Quan Zhi Gao Shou)
This highly anticipated adaptation of the popular web novel and game, The King's Avatar follows the journey of Ye Xiu, a renowned gamer who returns to the online gaming world he once dominated. The series garnered praise for its dedication to showcasing the nuances and excitement of esports, appealing to both gamers and anime fans.
5. The Legend of Vox Machina
This animated series, based on the popular Dungeons & Dragons campaign, The Legend of Vox Machina follows a group of unlikely adventurers on their quest to save the world from evil. With its stunning animation, compelling story, and engaging characters, the series quickly became a fan favorite.
6. The Starry Sky (Xinghan Canlan)
This historical drama series follows the story of Cheng Shaoshang, a young woman forced to navigate the complexities of court life and marriage in ancient China. The Starry Sky is lauded for its beautiful visuals, intricate storytelling, and strong female lead, making it a standout among Donghua series.
7. Under One Person (Hitori no Shita: The Outcast)
This action-fantasy series follows Zhang Chulan, a seemingly ordinary young man who discovers he possesses supernatural abilities and becomes entangled in a world of powerful individuals with hidden secrets. Under One Person is known for its unique blend of martial arts, supernatural elements, and suspenseful storytelling.
These are just a few of the exceptional Donghua series released in 2021. With its growing popularity and continuous innovation, Donghua is poised to captivate audiences worldwide for years to come.