This Drama (Season 1 aired 2019, Season 2 aired 2024) is adapted from the popular novel by Mao Ni. The story is set in the fictional kingdom of Southern Qing (or Qing Kingdom) in ancient times, with a light sci-fi twist.

A modern young man from the 21st century (who is terminally ill) reincarnated / reborn as a baby named Fan Xian in this ancient world, while retaining his memory and knowledge of the future. He was raised by his grandmother in a small seaside town called Danzhou as the illegitimate son of the Finance Minister. Her mother, Ye Qingmei (a genius inventor from the future), had been murdered shortly after giving birth to her.

Fan Xian was protected from childhood by Wu Zhu (an extremely powerful blind martial artist) and various mysterious figures. He studied poison science, medicine, as well as high-level martial arts. As an adult, out of curiosity about her mother's mystery and various assassination attempts on her, Fan Xian went to the capital (Kyoto). There, he was involved in the intricate political intrigues of the kingdom, Palace conspiracies, power struggles between Princes, as well as the intrigues of various great powers such as the监察院 (secret supervisory bureau), the royal family, and others.

Along the way, Fan Xian uses his modern wit, humor, and principles of justice to survive, uncover great secrets, find love (with Lin Wan'er), and face questions about his identity and purpose in life. This Drama combines elements wuxia (martial arts), palace politics, intelligent comedy, and mystery.

Compatibility for kids / children of what age?

This Drama not suitable for young children (under 12-13 years). Common ratings on platforms like MyDramaList and Viki are 13+ (Teens 13 or older) or PG-13.

Main reasons:

• There are many scenes armed fight, violence, murder, and blood (though not as extreme as horror movies, but quite intense and bloody in some parts).
• Dark themes of palace politics: conspiracies, betrayals, serial murders, intrigues of power, including discussions of corruption and cruelty of rulers.
• There is a visit to a nightspot-although not sexually explicit, this scene often appears in Chinese royal dramas and is difficult to explain to young children.
• The language and dialogues are quite complex, full of political satire and philosophy, so young children are most likely bored or do not understand.
• Some elements are creepy or tense, such as attempted murder from infancy, poison, and betrayal.

Age recommendations:

• Elementary school children (under 12 years old) → Not recommended (too heavy and at risk of confusing / frightening).
• 13-16 year olds should be able to accompanied by parents for discussion of violent sections or adult themes.
• 16+ or adult → very suitable, precisely many adult audiences like it because of the smart plot and strong characters.

If you want a similar drama but lighter and more family-friendly, try a xianxia/historical drama with a more adventure-focused focus like “The Untamed” (but still check the ratings) or a modern/teen drama. “Joy of Life” is more of a young adult with smart and dark shades.