Link Click (Shiguang Dailiren) is a landmark Chinese donghua that has taken international audiences by surprise. Blending time travel, mystery, and raw emotion, this series shows how far Chinese animation has come, standing toe-to-toe with the best global productions. Created by Studio LAN and Haoliners Animation League, it is a work of both artistry and suspense.
Story Overview
Behind the unassuming “Time Photo Studio” lies a service unlike any other. Friends Cheng Xiaoshi and Lu Guang use supernatural powers to enter photographs, reliving the exact hours captured within them. Their goal is to help clients uncover truths, mend regrets, or gain closure. But the rule is simple: observe, never interfere. Inevitably, emotions push them into dangerous territory where even small choices carry massive consequences.
Main Characters
Cheng Xiaoshi
Impulsive, warm-hearted, and deeply empathetic, Cheng dives headfirst into every mission. His determination to help others often blurs the line between right and wrong, forcing him to confront the heavy price of altering the past.
Lu Guang
Logical and composed, Lu Guang balances Cheng’s rash nature. With his ability to foresee twelve hours into a photo’s future, he serves as strategist and guide. Yet beneath his calm exterior hides secrets that slowly unravel.
Qiao Ling
The manager of Time Photo Studio, Qiao Ling offers strength and stability. As the bridge between Cheng and Lu, she grounds their partnership and brings emotional balance when chaos strikes.
Why Link Click Stands Out
A Unique Take on Time Travel
Unlike most series that sprawl across timelines, Link Click keeps its scope intimate—only a few hours within a photo. This tight framing magnifies the stakes, making even the smallest decisions life-changing.
Episodic Yet Interconnected
Every episode explores a different client: tragic family stories, gripping mysteries, or heartfelt slice-of-life dramas. But scattered hints and recurring characters tie the cases together, rewarding sharp-eyed viewers with jaw-dropping revelations.
Emotional Power
The series excels at tugging heartstrings. Episodes often end with shocking twists—moments that resonate long after watching. Themes of grief, betrayal, and redemption elevate the story far beyond a typical thriller.
Stunning Visuals and Sound
The animation is fluid and inventive, especially during transitions into and out of photographs. Combined with the evocative soundtrack—songs like “Dive Back in Time”—the presentation heightens both suspense and emotion.
Major Themes
- Regret and Redemption – Exploring the human desire to undo mistakes.
- Morality of Time Travel – Is it right to change the past to prevent pain?
- Friendship and Trust – Cheng and Lu’s partnership is repeatedly tested as secrets surface.
Global Recognition
- Rated 8.7+ on MyAnimeList and Bilibili.
- Officially subtitled in multiple languages and streamed worldwide on Crunchyroll.
- Gained a devoted following across Asia and a cult fanbase in the West.
Season 2 and Beyond
Season 1 ended with a breathtaking cliffhanger, leaving fans desperate for answers. Season 2 raises the stakes further with new characters, deeper mysteries, and darker themes. Each episode adds layers to the mythology, ensuring the suspense never fades.
Final Thoughts
Link Click is more than a time-travel thriller—it’s an exploration of human emotion and the consequences of choice. With unforgettable characters, polished storytelling, and top-tier production, it proves that Chinese animation has entered a new golden age. Whether you’re into thrillers, sci-fi, or character-driven drama, this is one series that deserves a place on your watchlist.
