Link Click (Shiguang Dailiren) is a Chinese donghua that has captivated audiences with its compelling blend of time travel, suspense, and emotional storytelling. Produced by Studio LAN and Haoliners Animation League, this series proves that Chinese animation can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best global thrillers—anime or otherwise.
Story Overview
The story follows two mysterious young men—Cheng Xiaoshi and Lu Guang—who run a photo development shop called “Time Photo Studio.” But their true service is far from ordinary: using their supernatural ability, they can dive into a photo to relive the moment captured, helping clients resolve regrets or uncover the truth.
Cheng Xiaoshi enters the photograph, fully inhabiting the body of the person who took it, while Lu Guang guides him from the outside, using his ability to foresee events for up to 12 hours after the photo was taken. But even with clear rules—”do not interfere”—things never go as planned.
Characters
Cheng Xiaoshi
Hot-headed, impulsive, and emotionally driven, Cheng Xiaoshi forms the emotional core of the story. He struggles with moral dilemmas and regrets when trying to help others.
Lu Guang
Calm, intelligent, and logical, Lu Guang serves as the strategist. His stoic demeanor hides a complex emotional world that unfolds slowly through the series.
Qiao Ling
The manager of Time Photo Studio. Strong-willed and grounded, she often acts as the voice of reason and a bridge between the two leads.
What Makes Link Click Special?
Unique Time-Travel Mechanism
Unlike typical time-travel stories, Link Click limits its scope to a few hours of reliving someone’s memories. This tight framing makes the emotional stakes incredibly high. Every decision—no matter how small—can have a massive ripple effect.
Episodic Yet Connected
Each episode explores a different client and scenario, from murder mysteries to slice-of-life drama. Yet, subtle clues and recurring characters thread a larger narrative together, leading to shocking revelations in the final episodes.
Emotional Depth
From grief and longing to redemption and betrayal, the emotional beats in Link Click are masterfully written. Episodes often end with unexpected twists that leave a lingering impact on viewers.
Exceptional Animation and Sound Design
The animation style is fluid, stylish, and dynamic, especially during action and time-travel sequences. The visual transitions between photo entry and real-time are particularly praised. Soundtracks like “Dive Back In Time” enhance the emotional weight of key scenes.
Themes
Regret and Closure
Each episode delves into a character’s regret—what they wish they had done or said. The show’s ability to portray such raw human emotion is its biggest strength.
Morality and Responsibility
Cheng Xiaoshi often pushes boundaries to help others, even at the cost of changing the timeline. The show raises tough questions: is it right to change the past if it prevents pain?
Friendship and Trust
The dynamic between Cheng and Lu is central. Their trust is tested repeatedly, especially as the mystery surrounding their abilities deepens.
Global Recognition
- Rated 8.7+ on MyAnimeList and Bilibili.
- Subtitled in multiple languages and widely watched on platforms like Crunchyroll and Funimation.
- Became a breakout hit across Asia and gained a cult following in the West.
Season 2 and Beyond
The cliffhanger ending of Season 1 left fans craving more, and Season 2 only deepens the emotional and narrative complexity. New characters, darker themes, and expanded backstories keep the suspense high.
Final Thoughts
Link Click is a testament to how far Chinese animation has come. With tight storytelling, mature themes, and unforgettable characters, it sets a new bar for the donghua industry. Whether you’re a fan of thrillers, sci-fi, or character-driven drama, this series deserves a spot on your watchlist.
