As the prequel to what’s been called “Chinese Lord of the Rings”, The Longest Promise has the stunning sets, costumes, and magic to match, but not the worldbuilding or storytelling. The world of Yun Huang has familiar magical fantasy elements, as well as a royalty romance plotline where different tribes and communities vie for power in the continent. However, the way these elements are introduced makes it hard for new viewers to follow, particularly those unfamiliar with the Mirror book series it is based on. It’s still an entertaining watch, especially for fans of the fantastic xianxia genre.

Regardless of whether or not viewers can go along with the story, The Longest Promise undeniably has production value. The show does not skimp on its sets and costumes. Even for short scenes, all the nobility’s robes are elaborately embroidered, meticulously beaded, and had multiple sets that match their respective region’s color schemes. The physical palaces are decked with all the fancy furniture one expects it to have. That being said, the excellence of the in-person sets contrasts so much with the green screen scenes. The CGI varies in quality as the show goes by, but certain moments still strike the eye.