REVIEW: ‘The Daily Life of the Immortal King,’ Episode 23 – “A Sword Dance Of The Five Elements”

The Daily Life of the Immortal King is a school life/ fantasy donghua (Chinese animation) produced by Bilibili. Having saved Sun’s family business from bankruptcy last episode, our protagonists decide to take part in a talent show highlighting spiritual sword skills. But something seems to be off as the numerous presentations begin to go awry. What would someone have to gain from sabotaging this innocuous show in The Daily Life of the Immortal King Episode 23?

Interspersed throughout this season of The Daily Life of the Immortal King has been the slowly growing threat from the demon realm that has existed since the barrier between it and Earth was ruptured at the start of this season. Despite its background presence throughout the season, it has remained out of sight of our protagonists. Though it appears as if that will soon be changing.

While the final moments of this week’s episode herald a major shift in the series season’s story, the bulk of The Daily Life of the Immortal King Episode 23 is a mix of breathtaking visuals and the series trademark antics. As each performance proceeds, the viewer is given a unique presentation of how the magic of this world works. From Sun’s wielding her trademark dozen spiritual swords to the manipulation of the elements at the tip of a blade, these sequences often deliver some unique and eye-catching moments.

But, as each performance reaches its key moment, something goes wrong. Unbeknownst to those at the performance someone is manipulating the show to their ends. Once it becomes clear why these manipulations are occurring I found myself surprised by the ingenious logic behind the plan. I feel like there is a measure of social commentary behind this revelation, though I could just be digging. Either way, the plot is a unique reveal that added to the already enjoyable story.

The only moment where this episode stumbles for me is when Lin takes the stage to give her performance. Upon seeing her friend on stage, Sun exclaims “Without her glasses, Lin is beautiful!” This line caused my eyes to roll not only at the insinuation that people with glasses aren’t beautiful but at the gross oversimplification of the alterations made to Lin’s attire. Along with the removal of her spectacles, Lin’s hair is down and she has donned a far more elegant outfit than the school uniform or work clothes the show has seen her in previously.

The visual side of The Daily Life of the Immortal King Episode 23 delivers all the magic and humor of the story flawlessly. The visual highlight of the episode is easily Lin’s performance. The mixture of grace and magic throughout this moment is captured wonderfully by the visuals. Both the design of the magic, as well as the camera placement, allow the sequence to enchant the viewer.

When all is said and done, The Daily Life of the Immortal King Episode 23 brings everything the series has always delivered amazingly, while ending the episode on a cliffhanger that promises to send our protagonists into new, more threatening waters. I cannot wait for next Saturday!

The Daily Life of the Immortal King Episode 23 is streaming on Funimation.