The anticipated first kiss between Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji in The Untamed never actually happens on screen. While the romantic undertones are undeniably strong, the adaptation adheres to Chinese censorship guidelines, conveying the deep emotional bond through subtle gestures, shared glances, and selfless acts of devotion.
Decoding the Relationship: Friendship, Brotherhood, or Something More?
The Untamed, a live-action adaptation of the popular danmei novel Mo Dao Zu Shi (Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation) by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu, captivated audiences worldwide with its intricate plot, stunning visuals, and, most importantly, the complex relationship between its two male protagonists: Wei Wuxian (portrayed by Xiao Zhan) and Lan Wangji (portrayed by Wang Yibo). While the source material explicitly depicts a romantic relationship, the television adaptation navigates the stringent Chinese censorship laws by portraying a deeply intimate bond that transcends the boundaries of mere friendship, hinting at a profound love that needs no verbal affirmation.
Instead of a literal kiss, the series emphasizes the unspoken connection and the sacrifices each character makes for the other. From Lan Wangji’s unwavering support for Wei Wuxian, despite the societal condemnation, to Wei Wuxian’s infectious smile specifically reserved for Lan Wangji, the series masterfully uses visual cues and narrative parallels to convey the depth of their feelings. The constant proximity, the protective stances, and the shared traumas all contribute to a powerfully suggestive, albeit non-explicit, romantic arc.
The beauty of The Untamed lies in its ability to subtly communicate the romantic essence of the novel. Viewers are encouraged to interpret the nuances of their interactions, fostering a sense of intimate understanding and participation in their love story. The lack of a literal kiss doesn’t diminish the power of their bond; rather, it elevates it to a higher plane, where love is expressed through loyalty, sacrifice, and unspoken understanding.
Delving Deeper: Unpacking the Subtextual Romance
The absence of a physical kiss has sparked countless debates and analyses among fans, with many appreciating the artful way the series conveys the romance through other means. The gaze, the touches, and the shared experiences serve as powerful surrogates for physical intimacy, allowing the audience to project their own interpretations and desires onto the characters.
The censorship, while a constraint, arguably enhances the emotional impact. The tension and longing created by the unspoken feelings become a driving force in the narrative, keeping viewers invested in the characters’ journey. The series relies on the audience’s emotional intelligence to bridge the gap between what is shown and what is implied, resulting in a deeply satisfying and rewarding viewing experience.
The Power of Subtext
The skillful use of subtext in The Untamed is a testament to the creators’ ingenuity and the actors’ talent. The smallest gestures, a barely perceptible widening of the eyes, or a lingering hand clasp, carry immense weight, conveying a depth of emotion that transcends words. This deliberate ambiguity invites viewers to become active participants in the storytelling, deciphering the unspoken language of love between Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji.
The Unspoken Language of Love
The language of actions often speaks louder than words. Lan Wangji’s relentless pursuit of Wei Wuxian, his unwavering belief in his goodness, and his willingness to defy societal norms to protect him are all powerful expressions of love. Similarly, Wei Wuxian’s playful teasing and unwavering trust in Lan Wangji, despite his reserved nature, demonstrate a deep affection and understanding. These actions, combined with the evocative soundtrack and stunning cinematography, create a powerful and unforgettable romantic experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Romance in The Untamed
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Here are some frequently asked questions about the romantic aspects of The Untamed, further clarifying the nature of Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji’s relationship within the constraints of the adaptation:
Q1: Does the source material (Mo Dao Zu Shi) explicitly depict a romantic relationship?
Yes, the original novel, Mo Dao Zu Shi, explicitly portrays a romantic and sexual relationship between Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji. They are canonically a couple.
Q2: Why doesn’t The Untamed show a direct romantic relationship?
Due to strict censorship regulations in China regarding LGBTQ+ content in media, The Untamed avoids explicitly depicting a same-sex romantic relationship. The adaptation instead focuses on a deeply intimate and suggestive bond, relying on subtext and implied affection.
Q3: What are some key scenes that hint at a romantic connection?
Several scenes point towards a romantic connection, including Lan Wangji’s unwavering support for Wei Wuxian during the Sunshot Campaign, his protective stance towards him even when the entire cultivation world opposes him, the close proximity they maintain throughout the series, their shared traumas and vulnerabilities, and the final scene where they reunite and travel together. Furthermore, Lan Wangji writing and playing the Inquiry song specifically for Wei Wuxian, searching for his soul for 13 years is a significant plot point.
Q4: How do the actors portray the romantic undertones?
Xiao Zhan and Wang Yibo’s exceptional performances are crucial in conveying the romantic undertones. Their subtle expressions, shared glances, and physical proximity powerfully communicate the depth of their characters’ feelings, even without explicit romantic declarations or physical displays. Their chemistry became a significant draw for viewers.
Q5: What is “bromance” in the context of The Untamed?
While some viewers interpret the relationship as a deep “bromance,” the intention behind the adaptation is to suggest a romantic relationship without explicitly showing it. The term “bromance” often falls short of fully capturing the depth and intensity of the bond between Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji, especially considering the source material.
Q6: How do other characters react to Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji’s relationship?
While not explicitly acknowledged as romantic, other characters often notice their close bond and the sacrifices they make for each other. Some characters, like Jiang Cheng, express concern about their friendship interfering with their respective sects and responsibilities, highlighting the unconventional nature of their connection.
Q7: What is the significance of the song “Wangxian”?
The song “Wangxian,” composed by Lan Wangji for Wei Wuxian, is a significant symbol of their relationship. It represents their shared experiences, their understanding of each other, and their unwavering love. It becomes a motif throughout the series, reminding viewers of their unbreakable bond.
Q8: Are there any behind-the-scenes moments that shed light on the intended romance?
While behind-the-scenes content is carefully managed, subtle hints often emerge through interviews and fan accounts, suggesting the actors and the production team were aware of the romantic subtext and deliberately incorporated it into their portrayals.
Q9: How has the absence of a direct kiss affected the fandom?
The absence of a direct kiss has fueled extensive discussions and fan theories within the fandom. Many fans have created fanfiction, fan art, and videos exploring the romantic possibilities of their relationship, demonstrating the enduring impact of their bond.
Q10: What are the cultural implications of the adaptation’s choices?
The Untamed reflects the complex cultural landscape of China, where censorship restricts the portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships while simultaneously recognizing the growing acceptance of diverse identities. The series subtly challenges these restrictions by suggesting a romantic connection that resonates with a global audience.
Q11: Is there a difference in the depiction of the relationship in the special edition versus the original cut?
The special edition, designed for international audiences, sometimes includes extended scenes and alternative edits that subtly amplify the romantic undertones of the relationship, offering a slightly more overt interpretation compared to the original broadcast.
Q12: What makes Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji’s relationship so compelling, even without explicit romance?
The compelling nature of their relationship stems from the genuine connection between the characters, their selfless devotion to each other, and the sacrifices they make for one another’s well-being. The unspoken understanding and the emotional depth of their bond transcend the need for physical intimacy, creating a love story that is both powerful and unforgettable. The unwavering trust and reliance each places on the other solidifies a bond that audiences find eternally fascinating.