Adaptations of Journey to the West

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A screen capture from TV series Journey to the West. [China Daily via agencies]

Journey to the West (Television series)

When asked what is the most classic representation of the original novel, most viewers in China would name the television series, Journey to the West, that was broadcast on China Central Television in 1986.

The team created a fantasy-filled mystical world with limited funding and technology, but one that strictly adhered to the storyline of the original novel. The bravery and indomitable vitality of the main characters were minutely captured, winning hearts of audiences spanning decades and age groups. In particular, the portrayal of the Monkey King by actor Liu Xiao Ling Tong, who comes from a family of actors best known for playing the Monkey King, became an exemplary formula-like classic in the minds of many Chinese viewers. The melody of the theme song, Where the Road Is, echoed with audiences not just in that generation, but in many more to come.

Director: Yang Jie

Release date: Spring Festival of 1986

Starring: Liu Xiao Ling Tong, Xu Shaohua, Ma Dehua, Yan Huaili

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