Fatal Journey (2020) – A Poignant Side Story from the World of The Untamed
Released in 2020, Fatal Journey is a Chinese fantasy action film that serves as a side story (or spin-off) to the popular drama series The Untamed, which itself is adapted from the hit danmei novel Mo Dao Zu Shi (Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation) by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. While the original series focused heavily on Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji, Fatal Journey shifts the spotlight to the Nie brothers—Nie Mingjue and Nie Huaisang—and offers fans a deeper look into their troubled relationship and tragic past.
A Story of Brotherhood and Duty
Fatal Journey takes place before the events of The Untamed, during a time of growing unrest between the cultivation clans. The plot centers on Nie Mingjue, the stoic and powerful leader of the Nie Sect, and his younger half-brother, Nie Huaisang, who struggles with his role in the clan and the violent legacy of their family’s spiritual weapon—the demonic saber.
As tensions rise and external threats loom, the brothers must face not only political challenges but also the emotional strain of their conflicting ideals. While Nie Mingjue prioritizes strength and honor, Huaisang appears weak and hesitant—though there's more to him than meets the eye.
Strong Character Focus and Emotional Depth
Unlike larger-scale fantasy epics, Fatal Journey is more introspective and character-driven. At its core, the film is about family, expectations, and sacrifice. It paints a tragic portrait of two brothers trying to bridge their emotional distance in the face of personal and political turmoil.
Nie Mingjue, played by Wang Yizhou, is portrayed with a powerful sense of righteousness and frustration. Ji Li’s portrayal of Nie Huaisang adds complexity to a character often underestimated, showing early hints of the cunning mind fans later come to understand in The Untamed.
Expanding the Untamed Universe
For fans of The Untamed, Fatal Journey is an essential companion piece. It fills in key backstory gaps and deepens the emotional weight of events from the main series. The film also offers more insight into the internal dynamics of the Nie Sect and sheds light on how the powerful demonic saber began to erode the clan’s leadership.
While the film assumes some familiarity with the larger world and characters, it still tells a focused and coherent story that can be appreciated on its own—especially by those who enjoy character-driven narratives with emotional intensity.
A Darker, More Intimate Aesthetic
Visually, Fatal Journey adopts a more somber and muted tone compared to the often vibrant aesthetic of The Untamed. This choice reflects the heavier subject matter and tragic nature of the story. The cinematography emphasizes quiet moments and internal conflict, with well-choreographed action scenes that don’t overshadow the drama.
The swordplay and cultivation effects are elegantly executed, though more restrained than in larger productions. The limited scope allows for a more personal and intense atmosphere, which suits the story’s themes of loyalty, grief, and brotherhood.
Final Thoughts
Fatal Journey is a heartfelt and tragic tale that adds emotional depth to The Untamed universe. It gives fans a closer look at two often-overlooked characters and explores the burden of leadership, the complexities of sibling relationships, and the price of upholding honor in a fractured world.
Whether you're a fan of Chinese fantasy dramas or simply love intimate character stories set in rich fantasy worlds, Fatal Journey is a powerful addition to the Mo Dao Zu Shi saga that shouldn't be missed.