Wen Xiang Tan An Lu (2023)

Exploring Shades of Moral Ambiguity Amidst Romance and Intrigue

A standout show of the year, "The Truth of Scent" delivers a consistent narrative and keeps its engaging elements throughout in a landscape of contemporary Chinese television that frequently features a strong start followed by an inevitable dip into absurdity.

The show expertly strikes a careful balance between lightheartedness and seriousness, making sure it doesn't go off too much into solemnity or frivolity. The romance subplot involving Wang Ya and Wen Xian skillfully tempers the severity coming from the complex murder schemes, offering a solace that heightens the viewer's interest.



One admirable aspect is the villain's portrayal, which uses intriguing shades of grey rather than stark black or white. Without giving away the story, it's important to highlight that this individual brings a compelling moral dilemma to the story: Is it OK to use immoral methods of punishment when the law fails to hold the wicked accountable?


This thought-provoking issue may have been examined with a harsher perspective in an American environment. While maintaining certain bounds, this caution ultimately results in a conclusion that can leave viewers wanting a little more depth and resolve.



Despite its reserved ending, "The Truth of Scent" is worth watching since it guarantees viewers a journey that is anything but a waste of time.

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