Li_An2021
A Slow Burn with Surprising Depth Beneath the CGI
The Bromance/Sismance: Contrary to some reviews, the bromance/sismance ratio in L.O.R.D Critical World isn't as prominent as claimed. The supposed 30/70% balance is misleading, as much of the show is about the juniors on missions while Leya and Spectre narrate. If you’re looking for deep connections, only Qi Ling and Yang Ze truly share any substantial bromance, and even the female disciples lack strong sismance dynamics, with Lotus and Rosemary failing to establish significant sisterly chemistry. Unfortunately, Qi Ling’s interactions with Yin Chen are few, leaving much of his screen time spent with other characters like Shen Yin, Lotus, and Rosemary.
Genuinely Sad When It Ended: Despite its flaws, the show gains momentum around episode 34, and by the end, I was genuinely sad to see it conclude. It’s possible to skip from the early episodes, after Qi Ling and Yin Chen have established a relationship, straight to ep. 34 without missing much. Though much of the story feels like filler, the emotional depth and character connections that finally emerge make the ending bittersweet.
Does Qi Ling Ever Grow Up? Yes, but it takes time. Qi Ling finally sheds his goofy persona around episode 28, becoming more adept at magic—though his actual growth under Yin Chen’s guidance is glossed over. It's not until episode 34 that he truly matures and steps into his role as a disciple, marking a turning point in both his character and the show’s plot, which had been dragging with filler episodes.
The Emotion!: Episode 36 is where Zhang Min En’s portrayal of Qi Ling really shines. His emotional depth is a revelation after so much lightheartedness, making the drama feel more impactful.
The CGI: Yes, it’s bad. Get past it.
The Plot: The plot is riddled with holes. If the filler from episodes 5 to 33 had been replaced with meaningful story progression, the pacing would have improved, and perhaps the show could have wrapped up with a more satisfying end.
Second Season?: While the show sets itself up for a second season, it doesn’t leave you hanging on a cliffhanger. The characters' paths are clear enough to imagine what might come next, though I'd eagerly watch another season to see how their stories unfold.
Watch or Not?: This show is very enjoyable if you focus on the characters. If you can overlook the CGI and sluggish plot in the middle, there’s charm to be found. The final stretch of episodes is much stronger, and by then, you’ll likely be invested enough to hope for a second season.
Rewatch Value?: If I were to rewatch, I’d only bother with episodes 34-48. It's been over a year since I saw this show and I'm still thinking about it.
Genuinely Sad When It Ended: Despite its flaws, the show gains momentum around episode 34, and by the end, I was genuinely sad to see it conclude. It’s possible to skip from the early episodes, after Qi Ling and Yin Chen have established a relationship, straight to ep. 34 without missing much. Though much of the story feels like filler, the emotional depth and character connections that finally emerge make the ending bittersweet.
Does Qi Ling Ever Grow Up? Yes, but it takes time. Qi Ling finally sheds his goofy persona around episode 28, becoming more adept at magic—though his actual growth under Yin Chen’s guidance is glossed over. It's not until episode 34 that he truly matures and steps into his role as a disciple, marking a turning point in both his character and the show’s plot, which had been dragging with filler episodes.
The Emotion!: Episode 36 is where Zhang Min En’s portrayal of Qi Ling really shines. His emotional depth is a revelation after so much lightheartedness, making the drama feel more impactful.
The CGI: Yes, it’s bad. Get past it.
The Plot: The plot is riddled with holes. If the filler from episodes 5 to 33 had been replaced with meaningful story progression, the pacing would have improved, and perhaps the show could have wrapped up with a more satisfying end.
Second Season?: While the show sets itself up for a second season, it doesn’t leave you hanging on a cliffhanger. The characters' paths are clear enough to imagine what might come next, though I'd eagerly watch another season to see how their stories unfold.
Watch or Not?: This show is very enjoyable if you focus on the characters. If you can overlook the CGI and sluggish plot in the middle, there’s charm to be found. The final stretch of episodes is much stronger, and by then, you’ll likely be invested enough to hope for a second season.
Rewatch Value?: If I were to rewatch, I’d only bother with episodes 34-48. It's been over a year since I saw this show and I'm still thinking about it.
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