A new story is emerging from the world of Chinese animation. The upcoming ONA titled “Records of Tang Dynasty – Da Tang Chengfeng Lu” (《大唐乘风录》), also known as “Da Tang Chengfeng Lu”, has released its first official trailer, giving us a glimpse into a world of conflict, conspiracy, and martial arts. This new series is being produced by Passion Paint Animation and is expected to be released on the iQIYI platform in 2025. While a specific release date in 2025 has not yet been announced, we’ll keep you updated right here on donghua-news.com as soon as more information drops.
Table of Contents: Records of Tang Dynasty
A Deeper Look at the First Trailer
The trailer, though just under a minute long, sets a serious and intriguing tone, dropping viewers right into the middle of a brewing storm. It’s packed with quick cuts and powerful lines that hint at a complex narrative. Let’s break down what the trailer shows us.
The video opens by immediately establishing high stakes. A voiceover explains that two individuals are ensnared in the “Luo family’s blood feud” and are in danger of being “swallowed by hungry wolves” [00:02]. This line effectively paints a picture of our heroes being hunted and caught in a conflict much larger than themselves. It suggests a story rooted in family honor and long-standing rivalries, a common and beloved theme in Wuxia stories.
Soon after, we learn about the formation of a new power. A declaration is made that “the fate of the fierce and mighty has officially been sealed” [00:10], and this group is intent on bringing the “two heroes of the Central Plains to justice” [00:15]. This is where the central plot seems to kick off. The “two heroes,” presumably the protagonists Zheng Dongting and Zu Beiqiu, are being framed or, at the very least, misunderstood. They are not just running from a family feud but are now the targets of an organized and powerful new faction.
The mystery deepens around the halfway mark. A crucial question is raised about whether Zheng Dongting and Zu Beiqiu are the actual murderers, with a character stating their actions “clearly do not make them the killers” [00:32]. This confirms that the series will involve a journey to uncover the truth and clear their names. The follow-up question, “Does it really matter who the murderers are?” [00:36], adds another layer of intrigue, suggesting that the accusations might just be a pretext for a larger political maneuver.
Towards the end, the trailer hints at the endgame. There is a need to “unleash the new force of the Eight Jia faction” for the “inheritance of the Heavenly Marquis” [00:43]. This line is packed with lore, pointing towards hidden powers, ancient lineages, and a significant prize that everyone is fighting for. It elevates the story from a simple murder mystery to an epic struggle for power and legacy.
The trailer concludes with a significant time jump. The words “It has been 10 years” [00:54] flash across the screen, followed by a character confidently stating, “I can finally wield my sword” [00:55]. This is a classic narrative device that promises a story told on a grand scale, showing us not just a single event but the long-term consequences and the evolution of its characters. It suggests our heroes will spend a decade training, hiding, or planning before they are ready to face their enemies.
What We Know So Far: Story and Characters
Based on the trailer and available information, Records of Tang Dynasty is a Wuxia story centered on two heroes, Zheng Dongting and Zu Beiqiu. They are wrongly accused of murder and find themselves tangled in a dangerous conspiracy that goes far beyond a simple frame-job. Their quest to clear their names will force them to navigate a treacherous world of rival clans, political factions, and hidden masters.
The fact that the Donghua is adapted from a novel is a good sign, as it usually means the world and its characters are already well-developed. This kind of plot, focusing on heroes on the run who must uncover a conspiracy, may appeal to fans of other action-oriented shows. If you enjoy stories about skilled swordsmen and intricate plots, this might be a show to watch. Many fans of the genre are also following the news about The Blade Master, which shares a similar focus on martial arts and adventure.
The Studio Behind the Animation: Passion Paint Animation
Handling the animation is Passion Paint Animation. While they may not be as widely known as some other major studios, their involvement in a project for a major platform like iQIYI is significant. The animation quality in the trailer appears fluid and detailed, especially in the brief action sequences and character expressions. A studio’s ability to bring a novel’s world to life is key, and the initial visuals for Records of Tang Dynasty look promising. We will have to wait for the full release to see the complete scope of their work, but the trailer sets a high standard.
The Road to 2025
With a release window of 2025, fans have some time to anticipate this new series. As an ONA released on iQIYI, it should be readily available for streaming to a global audience upon its release. This accessibility is great for the growing international community of Donghua fans.
The Wuxia and fantasy genres continue to be incredibly popular, and Records of Tang Dynasty seems poised to be a solid entry. It combines mystery, action, and what appears to be a rich world based on its source material. As we wait for its arrival, you can check out other upcoming Donghua to see what else is on the horizon.
Final Thoughts
The first trailer for Records of Tang Dynasty – Da Tang Chengfeng Lu does its job well. It introduces the core conflict, hints at a deep and engaging plot, and establishes a serious tone without giving too much away. The story of two heroes fighting against a conspiracy to clear their names is a timeless one, and when set in a rich Wuxia world, it has all the ingredients for success. Keep an eye on this one; we’ll provide updates, including new trailers and a confirmed release date, as they become available.
