10th Anniversary Special: A Painting Rivers and Lakes’s Season 7 and Film Breakdown

As the popular Chinese animated series “画江湖之不良人” (“Hua Jianghu Zhi Bu Liang Ren”, “Painting Rivers and Lakes”, “A Portrait Of Jianghu: Bad Guys”) celebrates its tenth anniversary, fans are treated to an abundance of exciting updates. The teaser for the highly anticipated seventh season and the announcement of the series’ first theatrical film have sparked immense interest. With the film featuring 天立星阳叔子 (Tian Li Xing Yang Shuzi) as a central character and showcasing a dramatic rescue of 李星云 (Li Xingyun) amid a massive army, expectations are sky-high. Simultaneously, the seventh season promises new identities, stunning transformations, and a gripping murder mystery. This comprehensive analysis delves into these developments, exploring the intricate narratives and character arcs that lie ahead.

The Advent of the Theatrical Film

Building on the phenomenal success of the animated series, the creators of “不良人” are now venturing into the world of cinema. The series has garnered a loyal fanbase, and its foray into feature-length films signifies a bold and exciting new chapter. The first online film, “天罡传” (Tian Gang Zhuan), received widespread acclaim, setting the stage for subsequent projects like “岐王传” (Qi Wang Zhuan) and “四大尸祖传” (Si Da Shi Zu Zhuan). Now, the team is poised to make an epic leap with their first theatrical release.

The trailer for the upcoming film hints at a level of quality that rivals mainstream cinema. The meticulous attention to detail in scene design, character modeling, and visual rendering suggests a production value that transcends typical animated series. Every movement and expression of the characters feels lifelike, creating an immersive experience for the audience. If the story is as compelling as the visuals, there’s little doubt that the film will be a resounding success.

The Dashing Young Yang Shuzi

One of the most striking elements of the film’s teaser is the introduction of a young 天立星阳叔子 (Tian Li Xing Yang Shuzi). Portrayed in his early twenties, Yang Shuzi cuts a dashing figure with his long black hair, traditional hat, and a mask that conceals half of his face. This youthful version of Yang Shuzi exudes an aura of mystery and charisma that is bound to captivate audiences.

Yang Shuzi’s attire further enhances his enigmatic appeal. Draped in a flowing green robe with a tattered but majestic cape, he epitomizes the archetypal chivalrous swordsman. His grey trousers and black boots, along with wrist guards, complete the look of a seasoned warrior. Despite the mask, his piercing eyes and youthful features reveal a handsome and noble countenance. This elegant yet rugged appearance promises to make Yang Shuzi a standout character in the film.

The Daring Rescue of Li Xingyun

No “不良人” story would be complete without the central figure of Li Xingyun. However, the film takes a unique approach by depicting him as an infant during a tumultuous period in history—specifically, the usurpation of the throne by 梁王朱温 (Liang Wang Zhu Wen). The teaser shows a baby, adorned with a tiger hat and longevity lock, lying amidst the ruins of an old well. Despite the grime and tattered clothes, the child’s noble lineage is evident.

This baby, of course, is the young Li Xingyun. The teaser poignantly captures Yang Shuzi’s tender care as he feeds the child goat milk and protects him from harm. The backdrop of swirling sandstorms adds to the dramatic atmosphere, highlighting the perilous journey they undertake. The camera pulls back to reveal Yang Shuzi surrounded by a vast army, presumably Zhu Wen’s forces, setting the stage for a breathtaking showdown.

Yang Shuzi’s determination to rescue Li Xingyun from the clutches of this formidable army is nothing short of heroic. The image of him standing tall against overwhelming odds, with the infant Li Xingyun in his arms, epitomizes the essence of bravery and selflessness. This scene promises to be a highlight of the film, showcasing not only Yang Shuzi’s combat prowess but also his deep sense of duty and compassion.

Jiang Chen’s New Identity and Role in Season 7

Turning our attention to the seventh season of “不良人,” Jiang Chen, the formidable ancestor of the corpses, takes center stage. After resolving the affairs of 李嗣源 (Li Siyuan), Jiang Chen ends his journey in the Central Plains and sets his sights on uniting the other three major corpse ancestors—萤勾 (Ying Gou), 侯卿 (Hou Qing), and 旱魃 (Han Ba)—for a significant, long-awaited mission. The teaser hints at their arrival in the vast and mysterious Mo Bei region, though the specifics of their mission remain shrouded in mystery. Ying Gou’s dialogue suggests even they are unclear about the full scope of their task, despite gathering a substantial amount of traditional Chinese herbs, indicating a possible connection to a grand sacrificial ceremony.

In a live broadcast, 若森老杨 (Ruosen Laoyang) confirmed this sacrificial theme, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the teaser’s hints. We see Jiang Chen, torch in hand, venturing into a secretive location, likely the sacrificial site. This site is presumably in 奥姑 (Ao Gu), an area known for its ancient and mystical significance. A conversation between Jiang Chen and Li Xingyun reveals that Jiang Chen also goes by the name 思玉丹 (Si Yudan), suggesting a previous incarnation as the last Ao Gu, closely linked with 多阔霍 (Duo Kuo Huo). This revelation of Jiang Chen’s dual identity adds a rich backstory, intertwining his fate with the ancient traditions and power struggles of Mo Bei.

The Alluring New Look of Jiang Chen

Season seven prominently features the Mo Bei arc, positioning Jiang Chen as a pivotal character. Consequently, Jiang Chen receives a significant visual upgrade, symbolizing his enhanced role. The teaser showcases Jiang Chen discarding his old clothes and high heels into a river, embracing a new, captivating attire. This transformation is not merely aesthetic but signifies a deeper narrative shift.

Jiang Chen’s new outfit is a quintessential Mo Bei ensemble. He dons a furry headpiece adorned with skull-like ornaments, complemented by a deep blue slit gown that reveals his arms and long legs. High boots complete the ensemble, exuding an exotic, queen-like elegance reminiscent of 王后述里朵 (Queen Shuliduo). The overall effect is a striking blend of sensuality and foreign allure, reflecting Jiang Chen’s elevated status and the dramatic tone of the Mo Bei arc.

Li Xingyun’s Dire Predicament

While Jiang Chen’s new identity and look captivate fans, Li Xingyun’s plight injects suspense and tension into the storyline. The teaser paints a grim picture: as the four corpse ancestors arrive in Mo Bei, a series of gruesome murders follow in their wake. Entire tribes, including the 突率部 (Tulu Bu), are annihilated, plunging Mo Bei into fear and chaos. The initial suspicion falls on Jiang Chen, notorious for his heart-extracting rituals, possibly for sacrificial purposes. However, the Mo Bei royal family has a different perspective.

Determined to uncover the truth, the royal family dispatches 遥辇弟弟将军 (General Yaolian Didi) to investigate but finds no conclusive evidence. This ambiguity fuels suspicion toward the 不良人 (Bu Liang Ren), known for their lethal efficiency and ability to cover their tracks. Consequently, the new leader of the Bu Liang Ren, Li Xingyun, is wrongfully accused of the murders. As he enters Mo Bei, he faces relentless pursuit and persecution from the royal family, a situation that leaves him deeply aggrieved.

In his quest to clear his name, Li Xingyun unearths critical information about Jiang Chen’s past and possibly allies with 耶律质舞 (Yelv Zhiwu), the current Ao Gu. This alliance sets the stage for a high-stakes confrontation, heightening the season’s dramatic tension and promising a thrilling narrative arc.

Conclusion: Anticipating the Future of “不良人”

The tenth anniversary of “画江湖之不良人” marks a significant milestone for the franchise, celebrating its enduring popularity and expanding its horizons. The theatrical film and the seventh season’s teasers reveal an exciting blend of new character arcs, stunning transformations, and gripping narratives. Yang Shuzi’s heroic rescue of infant Li Xingyun promises a visually spectacular and emotionally resonant cinematic experience, while Jiang Chen’s new identity and the complex murder mystery in the Mo Bei arc add depth and intrigue to the upcoming season.

As fans eagerly await the release of these new installments, the future of “不良人” looks brighter than ever. The franchise’s ability to evolve and explore new storytelling mediums while maintaining the core elements that captivated audiences from the beginning is a testament to its creative vitality. Whether through the grandeur of the big screen or the intricate storytelling of the animated series, “不良人” continues to push boundaries and deliver unforgettable experiences.

Are you excited for the future of “不良人”? What are your thoughts on the theatrical debut and the upcoming season? Share your views in the comments and join the conversation. For more in-depth reviews and analysis of Chinese animation, visit Donghua Reviewer. If you’re a fan of the “画江湖之不良人” animation, don’t forget to like, and share, for more updates and discussions. Thank you for your support, and see you in the next update!