If you’re a fan of action-packed cultivation stories with a dash of outrageous comedy and deep emotional arcs, Yi Nian Yong Heng (一念永恒), also known as A Will Eternal, is a donghua that demands your attention. Produced by B.CMAY Pictures and based on the popular web novel by Er Gen, this series brings to life a world of immortality seekers, spiritual beasts, and hilarious misadventures in a way that’s visually stunning and emotionally rewarding.
Let’s dive into a detailed, spoiler-free review of this standout Chinese animation.
Story Overview
Yi Nian Yong Heng follows the journey of Bai Xiaochun, a mischievous and cowardly young man whose dream is simple: to live forever. Unlike most cultivation protagonists who are stoic, brooding, and honor-bound, Bai Xiaochun is anything but. He’s full of fear, vanity, and ridiculous ideas—but somehow, he continues to rise in power thanks to his luck, wit, and unpredictable behavior.
What sets this donghua apart is how it balances comedy with genuine emotional development. You’ll laugh at Bai Xiaochun’s schemes one moment, then get drawn into his heartfelt struggles the next. The tone shifts between light-hearted slapstick and high-stakes drama without feeling jarring.
Characters and Development
- Bai Xiaochun – The Unlikely Hero
The heart of Yi Nian Yong Heng is its protagonist. Bai Xiaochun is the antithesis of your typical cultivation hero, and that’s exactly what makes him unforgettable. While many viewers start off laughing at his antics, they soon find themselves deeply attached to his journey. His growth from a coward to a genuine protector of his sect is both funny and inspiring.
- Supporting Cast
The show also introduces a rich supporting cast: from his loyal friends and eccentric elders to ruthless rivals and lovable spiritual beasts. Each character feels fleshed out, with their own motivations, quirks, and growth arcs. Their interactions with Bai Xiaochun are what bring out some of the best emotional and comedic moments in the show.
Animation and Visuals
B.CMAY Pictures deserves applause for their work here. The visual quality of the donghua is top-tier, especially during fight scenes and dramatic moments. Spirit energy flows with vivid color, the landscapes are rich with detail, and character expressions are animated with exaggerated flair that matches the show’s humorous tone.
The use of traditional Chinese aesthetics, mixed with fantasy elements, adds a unique flavor that distinguishes it from Japanese anime or Western animation.
Soundtrack and Voice Acting
The soundtrack of A Will Eternal is atmospheric and well-crafted. It uses traditional Chinese instruments in key moments to elevate the emotional impact, while upbeat tracks are used during comedic or lighthearted scenes. The voice acting is equally stellar—Bai Xiaochun’s VA delivers a range of expressions from terrified screaming to heartfelt monologues flawlessly.
What Makes It Special?
- Humor That Works
Humor in cultivation donghua can be hit or miss, but Yi Nian Yong Heng nails it. Whether it’s Bai Xiaochun faking injuries, outsmarting stronger foes with absurd plans, or panicking over the smallest threats, you’ll find yourself laughing out loud. But even better, the show never relies solely on jokes—it always comes back to character growth.
- Character-Driven Narrative
The donghua may start with antics and chaos, but the deeper you go, the more you realize how much Bai Xiaochun’s fears, hopes, and determination drive the story. You see him grow not because he wants power, but because he genuinely wants to protect those he loves—even if it means putting his life on the line.
- Unique Worldbuilding
The world of Yi Nian Yong Heng is rich with cultivation lore, bizarre magical creatures, ancient techniques, and mysterious sects. The way the show introduces new elements is seamless, keeping you curious and engaged at every turn.
Who Should Watch This?
- Fans of cultivation/donghua like Soul Land, Tales of Demons and Gods, or Battle Through the Heavens.
- Viewers who love comedy with heart—think One Punch Man but in a xianxia setting.
- Anyone who enjoys a well-animated underdog story filled with charm, chaos, and real emotional stakes.
Minor Downsides
While the donghua is fantastic, it’s not perfect. Some arcs can feel slightly stretched, and certain jokes may be overused if you’re binge-watching. However, these are minor flaws in an otherwise stellar series.
Final Verdict
Yi Nian Yong Heng (A Will Eternal) stands tall as one of the most entertaining and emotionally resonant cultivation donghua available today. With gorgeous animation, brilliant humor, and a protagonist unlike any other, it offers an experience that’s both wildly funny and deeply heartfelt.
Whether you’re new to donghua or a seasoned viewer, this series is absolutely worth watching.
⭐ Overall Rating: 9/10
Watch it if:
You want to laugh, feel, and cheer for an unconventional hero on a journey to eternity.
Skip it if:
You prefer darker, edgier protagonists or stories without comedic flair.