Is Thousand Autumns Donghua BL?
The donghua "Thousand Autumns" (also known as "A Thousand Autumns") has sparked a lot of discussion about its genre and whether it leans towards boy's love (BL). While the anime is based on the danmei novel "Mo Dao Zu Shi" (also known as "Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation"), which is undeniably BL, the adaptation has some differences.
The Original Novel: A Clear BL
The original novel "Mo Dao Zu Shi" is explicitly BL. It features a romantic relationship between two male characters, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji. Their dynamic is central to the story, and their love story is a significant driving force.
Thousand Autumns: A Blurred Line
While "Thousand Autumns" does maintain the core relationship between Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji, it avoids explicitly portraying their romantic feelings. Instead, it focuses on their deep bond and companionship, leaving room for interpretation about the nature of their connection.
Here are some reasons why people might interpret "Thousand Autumns" as BL:
- Subtle but present romance cues: The animation subtly hints at romantic tension through their interactions, body language, and expressions.
- Strong connection and devotion: The unwavering bond and devotion between Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji feels undeniably romantic, even if not explicitly stated.
- Fanbase expectations: The original novel's popularity and its BL elements have created a strong expectation for the adaptation to follow suit.
However, there are also reasons why some might not see it as BL:
- Lack of explicit romance: The adaptation avoids explicit romantic scenes and dialogue, focusing more on their friendship and teamwork.
- Broader audience appeal: The adaptation aims to appeal to a broader audience, potentially toning down the BL elements for wider acceptance.
- Different interpretations: The subtle cues can be interpreted differently by viewers, leading to various opinions about the nature of their relationship.
Ultimately, whether "Thousand Autumns" is considered BL is subjective and depends on individual interpretation. The animation avoids explicit confirmation, leaving the question open to individual viewers. The focus remains on their powerful bond, regardless of its romantic implications.