Release: 2023-07-15
Runtime: 2h 28m (148 minutes)
Based on the most well-known classical fantasy novel of China, Fengshenyanyi, the trilogy is a magnificent eastern high fantasy epic that recreates the prolonged mythical wars between humans, immortals and monsters, which happened more than three thousand years ago.
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Genres: Fantasy, Action, War
Cast: Li Yunrui, Narana Erdyneeva, Ci Sha, more
Li Yunrui
as E Shun
Narana Erdyneeva
as Su Daji
Ci Sha
as Yang Jian
Hou Wenyuan
as Chong Yingbiao
Chen Kun
as Yuan Shi Tian Zun
William Feng
as Tai Yi Zhen Ren
Huang Bo
as Jiang Ziya
Ding Yongdai
as E Chongyu
Yu Xia
as Shengong Bao
Wang Luoyong
as Bi Gan
Yu Shi
as Ji Fa
Yuan Quan
as Queen Jiang
Based on the most well-known classical fantasy novel of China, Fengshenyanyi, the trilogy is a magnificent eastern high fantasy epic that recreates the prolonged mythical wars between humans, immortals and monsters, which happened more than three thousand years ago.
Creation of the Gods I: Kingdom of Storms is a Chinese epic fantasy film that hit theaters on 20 July 2023. Directed by Wuershan, this film is the first installment in a trilogy based on the classic 16th-century novel Investiture of the Gods by Xu Zhonglin. The movie features a star-studded cast, including Fei Xiang, Li Xuejian, Huang Bo, and Yu Shi, among others.
The plot centers around the political turmoil in ancient China following the rise of the last king of the Shang dynasty. With a stunning runtime of 148 minutes, the film has quickly made its mark in the Chinese box office, grossing over $369.1 million against a production budget of ¥800 million (approximately $110.3 million). It is now regarded as the 25th highest-grossing film of all time in China.
The narrative kicks off with Lord Su Hu of Jizhou leading a rebellion against the Shang dynasty. The conflict escalates as Prince Yin Shou crushes the rebels, but a series of tragic events, including the deaths of King Di Yi and Crown Prince Qi, set off a chain reaction that leads to Shou's ascension to the throne. However, a divination at his coronation foretells a curse upon the dynasty, prompting Shou to contemplate a ritual sacrifice to appease the heavens.
As the story unfolds, Jiang Ziya, a monk from Kunlun, seeks to deliver the Investiture Scroll, which could potentially restore order. But he soon realizes that Shou is not fit to wield such power. Joined by his nephew-disciples, Nezha and Yang Jian, Ziya embarks on a dangerous journey to prevent Shou from gaining control of the scroll.
In a twist of fate, the film introduces supernatural elements that intertwine with the political strife. The character Su Daji, played by Narana Erdyneeva, is revealed to be possessed by a malevolent fox spirit, complicating the already chaotic situation. The story eventually leads to a rebellion against Shou as Ji Fa, a key character and hostage-son, challenges the oppressive regime.
This film is not only a visual spectacle—peppered with action and stunning production design—but it also explores themes of power, sacrifice, and the constant struggle between good and evil. It has received mixed reviews from critics. While some praise its ambitious vision and engaging storytelling, others note that its reliance on special effects sometimes overshadows the narrative.
Following its success in China, Creation of the Gods I was released in the United States on 22 September 2023, making its way to international audiences soon after. A sequel, Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force, is scheduled for release on 29 January 2025, focusing on the defense of Xiqi against Shang's impending attacks. The final film, Creation Under Heaven, will depict the eventual triumph and establishment of the Zhou dynasty.
With its captivating blend of fantasy and history, Creation of the Gods I aims to resonate with viewers around the globe, making it a noteworthy addition to the landscape of modern Chinese cinema.
