"The Princess and the Werewolf" is a captivating story reminiscent of a modern-day Beauty and the Beast. It revolves around Princess Qi Pa (Wu Xuanyi), who unknowingly loves the human Li Xiong (Chen Zheyuan) but fears and despises the beastly Kuimulang (Chen Zheyuan), not realizing they are the same person. This leads to comical situations as she tries to escape the Beast World, and her emotions unravel in front of the very person she both fears and adores. In contrast, Kuimulang falls deeply in love with her without expecting anything in return, while she struggles to love only a part of him.

Kuimulang seeks to prolong his life by retrieving a "lingzhu" (a power source) accidentally swallowed by Qi Pa five years ago. Now finally finding her, to extract it, he must make her fall passionately in love with him and share a passionate kiss. He kidnaps Qi Pa, hoping to obtain the "lingzhu" one day. Qi Pa, however, constantly plots her escape, sharing her plans with Li Xiong, who is both her captor and confidant. Amidst her escape attempts, Kuimulang must contend with a secretive subversive force that nearly killed him five years ago. Multiple assassination attempts threaten their lives.

Qi Pa, a princess of Great Xia, is a vibrant and open-minded individual with a liberal education. Unlike typical princesses, she is outgoing, possesses critical thinking skills, and understands human psychology. Despite her flamboyant exterior, she's fiercely devoted to true love.

Kuimulang, the King of the Beast Race ("Hua Shou"), is adored by his subjects and bears the responsibility of protecting his clan with his life, a mission passed down for generations. His continuous use of inner power weakens his body, causing him to transform into a wolf at night. When Qi Pa encounters him in his wolf form, she is terrified and finds him repulsive. However, she falls in love with him when he assumes his human form as Li Xiong, unaware that Kuimulang and Li Xiong are the same person. Fearing rejection, Kuimulang maintains two identities. When Qi Pa discovers the truth, it tests the depths of their love.

Qi Pa's love journey unfolds gradually, with her realization of her true home coming late in the story, adding a humorous twist. The villains' motives are typical – the pursuit of ultimate power to rule the Beast Kingdom - and they are known from the beginning of the story. A new villainous character is introduced very late in episode 27, becoming a central figure of dislike. The story wraps up neatly, with characters receiving their due rewards and punishments. Episode 29 stands out as the most touching, where the main characters unite against all odds, and a simpleton general becomes a true hero.

Wu Xuanyi delivers a convincing portrayal of Qi Pa, infusing her character with modernity and charm. Chen Zheyuan impressively embodies the distinct personalities of Kuimulang and Li Xiong, evoking sympathy for Kuimulang's unrequited love. The entire cast has delivered exceptional performances, embodying their respective roles with authenticity. Notably, the side characters have charmed their way into the audience's hearts, and the inclusion of several side couples adds delightful layers of sweet love stories to the narrative.

My Verdict

This enchanting story features modern elements in terms of attire and language. Characters take on various animal traits, from wolves to poisonous snake, cat, weasel, earthworm, chameleon, scorpion, and more, endearing themselves to viewers.

The moral of the story begs the question: should one love someone solely based on their appearance, as Qi Pa initially does, while overlooking the genuine devotion and sacrifices made for them? In essence, Qi Pa values all that Kuimulang has done for her but rejects him purely on the basis of his appearance. Is this fair?

In summary, "The Princess and the Werewolf" is a great watch, offering humor, romance, and adventure. Don't miss it!

Bravo!