Cdrama

For nearly two decades since the premiere of "Chinese Paladin" in 2005, ancient costume fantasy dramas have captivated audiences with their enchanting worlds and captivating storytelling. From "Eternal Love" to "Ashes of Love," "The Untamed," "Love and Redemption," "Word of Honor," "Legend of Fei," and the recent sensation "Ancient Love Poetry," these dramas have consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre, expanding its horizons and attracting a diverse fanbase. As the genre enters its third decade of exploration, the question arises: What lies ahead for ancient costume fantasy dramas? One potential direction for the genre is to delve deeper into mythology and folklore, drawing inspiration from a wider range of cultural traditions and legends. While many ancient costume fantasy dramas have been rooted in Chinese mythology, there is ample opportunity to explore other mythologies from around the world, introducing audiences to new and intriguing mythological realms. Moreover, there is a growing demand for more diverse and inclusive storytelling within the genre. While ancient costume fantasy dramas have traditionally focused on heterosexual romances between male and female protagonists, there is an increasing appetite for stories featuring LGBTQ+ characters and relationships. By embracing diversity and representation, the genre can appeal to a…

Since its literary inception in the pre-Qin era with "Han Feizi," "Wuxia" has carried and embodied the emotions and joys and sorrows of the Chinese people for thousands of years. As a representative figure of Chinese wuxia novels, Jin Yong elevated this uniquely romance to a global height. This year marks the 100th anniversary of Jin Yong's birth. To commemorate this, Tencent Video and Yaoke Culture have produced a series directed by Xu Bing, Deng Ke, Cao Dun, Zang Xichuan, and Yang Lei, with writers Xu Bing, Li Haishu, Huang Yanwei, Cao Xiaotian, Cheng Tingyu, and Luo Yiwei. The series stars Zhou Yiwei, Gao Weiguang, Chen Duling, Peter Ho, Hani Kezi, Ming Dao, Meng Ziyi, He Yu, Cisha, Bao Shang'en, Wang Hongyi, and Huang Yi (listed in order of appearance based on the storyline). The "The Legend of Heroes: Hot Blooded" series premiered on June 17, with the first 30-episode web drama "Iron Blooded Loyal Heart" inviting a new generation to experience the authentic essence of Jin Yong and the pure charm of wuxia culture. "The Legend of Heroes: Hot Blooded" continues the legacy of the first part of the 1983 version of "The Legend of the Condor Heroes." The…

In the pursuit of crafting a narrative that captivates the audience's imagination while evoking empathy, Moon Red Arc has embraced the rich heritage of traditional craftsmanship. Through the abundant use of techniques such as floral silk inlaying, the series endeavors to cultivate a romantic and enduring Eastern aesthetic, thereby upholding the legacy of traditional culture. At the heart of "Moon Red Arc" lies a commitment to immersing viewers in a world where fantasy and reality intertwine seamlessly. By infusing the narrative with elements of non-material cultural heritage, the series not only transports audiences to a bygone era but also celebrates the timeless beauty and craftsmanship of traditional art forms. Floral silk inlaying, a technique with roots deep in Chinese history, serves as a visual metaphor for the intricate layers of storytelling woven throughout the series. Just as artisans meticulously craft each delicate motif, so too do the creators of "Moon Red Arc" painstakingly construct a narrative that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. Through the use of non-material cultural heritage, "Moon Red Arc" seeks to bridge the gap between past and present, tradition and innovation. By honoring the craftsmanship of generations past, the series pays homage to the cultural…

In the realm of ancient costume martial arts dramas, a new contender emerges with the announcement of "To the Mountains and Seas." Headlined by actor Cheng Yi, the series unveils its first teaser trailer, teasing audiences with glimpses of its black-and-white chiaroscuro style, and revealing its stellar cast lineup. Directed by Ren Haitao and Lin Feng, with a script penned by Liu Fang, "To the Mountains and Seas" promises to be a thrilling journey into the world of martial arts and honor. The plot centers around Xia Mingming, a young man whose passion for martial arts novels contrasts starkly with the harsh realities of his mundane life. Played by Cheng Yi, Xia Mingming embarks on a transformative journey as he immerses himself in the world of martial arts through the eyes of the protagonist, Xiao Qiushui. From a naive and impulsive youth with meager martial skills, Xiao Qiushui evolves into a noble and righteous hero, dedicated to defending his homeland and upholding justice. At its core, "To the Mountains and Seas" explores the age-old theme of the hero's journey, tracing Xia Mingming's evolution from an ordinary individual to a legendary figure in the martial arts world. Through trials and tribulations,…

In many ways, "Moon Red Arc" exposes a crisis of stellar gravity within the realm of scriptwriting—an issue that reverberates across genres like ancient puppetry, fantasy, and martial arts. An evident phenomenon emerges: even this year's frontrunner in the genre, "Phoenix Nirvana," has failed to meet expectations in terms of both popularity and critical acclaim. In recent years, series within the ancient puppetry genre seem to be trapped in a vicious cycle, with one leg firmly stuck in the pursuit of grandiosity, meticulous production, and high viewer numbers, while the other is mired in shallow storytelling, recycled character tropes, and lackluster performances. The current state of "Moon Red Arc" epitomizes this dilemma: its script and character development lack careful refinement, instead relying on the assembly of A-list stars and bombastic marketing blitzes to satisfy the demands of fans. However, beneath the veneer of Eastern aesthetics, the series finds itself ensnared in the whirlpool of superficiality. This crisis is emblematic of a broader stagnation within the genre landscape. Despite the immense potential offered by ancient puppetry, fantasy, and martial arts dramas to explore rich cultural tapestries and deliver compelling narratives, many productions have fallen into a formulaic trap, prioritizing style over…

In the annals of Chinese television history, there exists a groundbreaking series that stands as the very first of its kind in the realm of fantasy drama: "The Legend of Sword and Fairy." Adapting characters from the popular novel series, the show introduced viewers to a vibrant cast of characters portrayed by acclaimed actors such as Liu Yifei as Zhao Ling'er, Hu Ge as Li Xiaoyao, Ariel Lin as Lin Yueru, Wallace Huo as Tang Yu, and Liu Pinyan as Anu, each depicted in colorful photographs. Zhao Ling'er exuded ethereal beauty with a playful demeanor, while Li Xiaoyao embodied boundless spirit and youthful exuberance. Tang Yu was characterized by his youthful vigor, Lin Yueru by her proud beauty, and Anu by her innocence and liveliness. These characters, brought to life from the pages of the novel, leaped off the screen with their vivacious and lively portrayals. The entire cast delivered performances brimming with vitality, charm, and a delightful playfulness, endearing themselves to audiences with their lovable and relatable characters. As the story unfolded, viewers were drawn into a world of unpredictable twists and turns, mirroring the unpredictability of real life. The characters embarked on separate journeys, yet ultimately converged on…

Fox Spirit Matchmaker, a historical romance drama led by Yang Mi and Gong Jun, with special appearances by Guo Xiaoting and Wei Zheming, has made waves on the streaming platform iQIYI. Breaking records on its premiere day, the series quickly became the fastest to surpass 9000 heat points on iQIYI this year. Adapted from the popular comic "Fox Spirit Matchmaker," the show tells the story of Tu Shan Hong Hong (played by Yang Mi), the head of the Tu Shan fox clan, and Dong Fang Yue Chu (played by Gong Jun), a member of the human clan, as they meet, fall in love, and strive to protect peace. Beyond the main storyline, this drama delves into a rich tapestry of characters. Guo Xiaoting portrays Tu Shan Ya Ya, whose character undergoes a complete growth arc from carefree youth to formidable warrior. Wei Zheming plays the role of the "strongest fighter" from the Ao Lai Kingdom, who forms a bond with Tu Shan Ya Ya and grows alongside her. In a recent interview with the Global Times Entertainment, Guo Xiaoting and Wei Zheming shared their insights into their characters and behind-the-scenes stories from the set of Fox Spirit Matchmaker. The success…

In the realm of Chinese television, Jin Yong's wuxia dramas once reigned supreme, capturing the hearts of audiences with their tales of honor, betrayal, and martial arts prowess. However, in recent years, a proliferation of remakes and adaptations has inundated screens, often with controversial alterations that deviate from the cherished originals. This trend has led to a palpable decline in audience expectations for Jin Yong's wuxia dramas. Yet, despite the criticisms and skepticism, the allure of these timeless tales remains undiminished, fueling an ongoing wave of reinterpretations and reimaginings. Enter "The World of Jin Yong," a series that has garnered considerable attention for its bold narrative innovations. While staying true to the classic framework laid down by the original works, this drama embarks on daring creative ventures by delving into the characters' youthful exploits and intertwining romantic plotlines. By doing so, it offers viewers a fresh perspective and a chance to rediscover the iconic heroes of wuxia lore. The success of "The World of Jin Yong" lies not only in its willingness to push the boundaries of storytelling but also in its adept handling of beloved characters and their relationships. By exploring the formative years of these figures and delving…

In the vast landscape of Chinese commercial cinema, one genre stands out as a unique and iconic representation: wuxia films. As a distinctive film genre indigenous to China, wuxia movies have not only garnered immense popularity among Chinese audiences but have also enjoyed notable success in the international film market. Since the 21st century, amid the comprehensive industrialization reform of the Chinese film industry, wuxia films, as one of the leading genres, have undergone significant developmental stages. From Zhang Yimou's "Hero," "House of Flying Daggers," and "Curse of the Golden Flower" trilogy to Ang Lee's "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," Mandarin-language wuxia films have garnered genuine recognition in the global cinematic landscape. However, influenced by various factors, wuxia cinema has gradually declined after years of development. Currently, traditional wuxia films are facing dismal market performance, manifested by a decrease in film output and poor audience reception. Over the past decade, only twenty-four wuxia films have been released in the Chinese theatrical market. Moreover, the quality of these films is generally low, with most failing to meet the minimum standards for critical acclaim. They not only fail to satisfy loyal fans of wuxia cinema but also struggle to attract mainstream audiences to…

Moon Red Arc transcends racial divides and challenges fate with its magnificent portrayal of emotions. Each character's emotional entanglements and personal growth revolve closely around themes of combating prejudice and safeguarding peace. In a world where bias often dictates relationships, it's only through love and respect that barriers and barriers can be broken down. In the story, the relationships between humans and spirits are not inherently antagonistic; rather, they are depicted with vivid and rich complexity. Particularly, the spirits of Tushan collectively emerge with lively, harmonious, and beautiful portrayals. The portrayal of spirits showcases a side of them that is lovable, harmonious, and beautiful, challenging conventional perceptions and stereotypes. The central theme of love and acceptance permeates every aspect of "Moon Red Arc," resonating deeply with audiences and sparking important conversations about tolerance and understanding. Through its nuanced exploration of relationships between different races and cultures, the series encourages viewers to embrace diversity and celebrate the unique qualities that make each individual special. Moreover, "Moon Red Arc" serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of love and compassion. Despite the challenges and obstacles they face, the characters in the series find strength in their connections with one another,…

Rooted deeply in Chinese traditional culture, Xianxia literature not only unveils fantastical realms and enthralling tales of martial heroes and immortal beings but also encapsulates a unique understanding of morality, emotions, and life's essence. In an era of globalization, Xianxia literature emerges as a vital emissary of Chinese culture to the world stage. Xianxia, a genre often characterized by its fusion of mythology, martial arts, and elements of Taoist philosophy, has a rich history dating back centuries. Its origins can be traced to ancient Chinese legends and folklore, where mystical beings and celestial realms coexist alongside mortal realms. These tales, passed down through generations, served not only as entertainment but also as moral instruction, imparting wisdom and guiding principles to listeners. Central to Xianxia literature is the concept of cultivation, wherein protagonists embark on a spiritual journey to attain enlightenment, immortality, or mastery of martial arts. Through rigorous training, inner cultivation, and encounters with formidable adversaries, they transcend the limitations of mortality and ascend to higher realms of existence. This theme resonates deeply with Chinese audiences, reflecting cultural values of perseverance, self-improvement, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Furthermore, Xianxia literature embodies a profound reverence for nature and the cosmos,…

In a recent interview with the Global Times Entertainment, Guo Xiaoting and Wei Zheming shared their profound insights into their respective roles and offered a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes stories of the "Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Red-Haired Girl" production. For Guo Xiaoting, her portrayal of love and familial bonds in the series has been a journey of self-discovery. She emphasizes the importance of direct emotional expression, citing that characters in the drama always confront each other head-on, conveying the most genuine and heartfelt emotions. This pure emotional exchange, she believes, possesses the power to instill strength in others. Through her experiences, Guo has gained a deeper understanding of love, recognizing it as a courageous commitment to protect and stand by those we hold dear. Similarly, Wei Zheming resonates with the simplicity and purity of love depicted in the series, transcending romantic relationships to encompass the bonds shared between family and friends. Immersed in the narrative, Wei finds resonance in his character's unwavering dedication to justice and compassion. The noble ideals embodied by his character resonate deeply with him, as reflected in his character's iconic lines: "In the face of adversity, always choose kindness over malice, and confront evil with justice." With…

In the realm of Chinese television dramas, few series have captured the hearts of audiences quite like "The Journey of Flower." Centered around the character Hua Qiangu, portrayed by Zhao Liying, the series delves deep into the complexities of human emotions, weaving a captivating narrative that resonates with viewers on a profound level. At the heart of the series is Zhao Liying's portrayal of Hua Qiangu, a character who undergoes a remarkable transformation from a naive and innocent girl to a resilient and determined woman. With each step of her journey, Zhao Liying breathes life into the character, imbuing her with a sense of purity, kindness, and strength that is both inspiring and relatable. From her early struggles to her eventual triumphs, every aspect of Hua Qiangu's growth resonates with audiences, touching their hearts and drawing them deeper into the story. Opposite Zhao Liying is Huo Jianhua, who portrays the enigmatic and complex character Bai Zihua. With his icy demeanor and hidden depths of emotion, Huo Jianhua brings a sense of mystery and intrigue to the role, keeping viewers guessing about his true intentions and feelings. The dynamic between Hua Qiangu and Bai Zihua is at the heart of the…

At the Hong Kong Cultural Museum, a nostalgic journey through the realms of martial arts and heroism unfolds in the exhibition titled "Wen You De Wu You De," showcasing the iconic costumes and props from classic Wuxia dramas. Among the artifacts displayed, the prop fan used by the legendary Wuxia character "Chu Liu Xiang" takes center stage, captivating visitors with its symbolic significance and historical resonance. As part of the "Hong Kong Popular Culture Festival 2024," the exhibition features approximately 30 pieces of headwear, costumes, and props from beloved Hong Kong Wuxia television dramas, offering audiences a chance to relive the magic of these timeless classics and celebrate the rich heritage of Chinese culture. Wuxia dramas have long held a special place in the hearts of audiences around the world, with their tales of honor, chivalry, and martial arts prowess captivating viewers of all ages. From the daring adventures of gallant heroes to the epic battles between rival sects, these dramas transport audiences to a world of intrigue, romance, and high-flying action, where justice prevails and righteousness triumphs over evil. Central to the exhibition is the portrayal of iconic characters such as Chu Liu Xiang, whose indomitable spirit and unwavering…

In recent years, the phenomenon of "live-action adaptations of Chinese comics" has surged in popularity, captivating audiences with its unique blend of comic book narratives brought to life on screen. This burgeoning market offers a diverse range of themes and holds immense potential, attracting significant attention and investment from major platforms in China. However, the journey to success in this realm seems fraught with challenges, with the specter of difficulties in adapting comics to live-action looming over many productions. How can creators navigate the complexities of bridging the gap between two distinct mediums, ensuring a balance between the essence of the original comics and the demands of live-action storytelling? The answer to this question remains elusive, requiring ongoing exploration and innovation. The anticipation surrounding the release of Fox Spirit Matchmaker: "Red-Haired Girl" was palpable, with high expectations from various quarters. Fans of Chinese comics eagerly awaited to see how a beloved IP would transition to the small screen, while aficionados of historical dramas rejoiced at the prospect of encountering the "ancient costume beauty ceiling" once again. Moreover, the production team's announcement of utilizing virtual production technology for the first time in a domestic long-form drama only served to deepen the…

Xianxia-themed web series and online literature have enjoyed tremendous popularity, yet the big screen seems to lack Xianxia-themed films. Why is that? Firstly, in terms of creative adaptation, the vast and intricate world of Xianxia presents significant challenges for filmmakers. This complexity often restricts the adaptation of Xianxia IPs to television series rather than feature films. Xianxia dramas typically span over 30 episodes, allowing ample time to depict the fantastical realms of Xianxia in detail. However, condensing the intricate world-building and character relationships of Xianxia into a 120-minute film presents a formidable challenge. Without sufficient exposition, audiences may struggle to grasp the backstory and nuances of the Xianxia world, leading to confusion and disengagement. Furthermore, the commercial viability of Xianxia films is another consideration. While Xianxia-themed web series and online literature have found success with niche audiences, the broader appeal of Xianxia films on the big screen remains uncertain. Unlike television dramas, which can cater to specific fanbases over multiple episodes, films require a broader appeal to attract a larger audience and recoup production costs. Given the niche nature of Xianxia content and its relatively limited mainstream appeal, studios may be hesitant to invest in Xianxia films for fear of…

In the realm of popular TV series for the second quarter, "Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Moon Red Arc" (hereafter referred to as "Moon Red Arc") undeniably claims a prominent position. Fans of Chinese animation eagerly anticipate the adaptation of a major IP into a drama, while enthusiasts of ancient puppetry rejoice in the arrival of fresh content. Followers of the cast cheer at the prospect of witnessing the "visual ceiling" of Yang Mi and Gong Jun in traditional costumes. Within the industry, there's considerable curiosity surrounding the debut application of virtual production technology in a domestically produced long-form drama. As various perspectives converge, "Moon Red Arc" has garnered significant attention since its premiere, with its collaboration with over 50 brands interpreted by netizens as a "crushing victory" in terms of commercial success. However, amidst the hype, the essence of a series remains its backbone. Many viewers, despite praising the first-class technical craftsmanship that crafts a fantastical world of folklore and integrates exquisite scenic designs with traditional cultural elements, find themselves at a loss when it comes to discussing the mediocre and thin storyline. At one point, sharp critiques of the "ancient puppet vase" began circulating widely. Behind this lies the inherent…

As the world commemorates the 100th anniversary of Jin Yong's birth, a cinematic tribute unfolds across theaters in Hangzhou and Jiaxing from June 16th to 23rd, 2024. The legacy of Jin Yong, also known as Louis Cha, spans generations, captivating audiences with his timeless tales of chivalry, honor, and martial arts prowess. To honor his enduring influence on literature and cinema, a special film exhibition will showcase six classic martial arts movies adapted from his iconic works. Among the selected masterpieces are "The Swordsman" series, including "The Swordsman" and "The Swordsman II: The East is Red," which delve into the intricate world of martial arts sects and their intricate power struggles. "The East is Red" follows the saga of the invincible Eastern Heretic, a character etched in the annals of martial arts lore. Also featured is "The Return of the Condor Heroes," a gripping tale of love and heroism set against the backdrop of ancient China. This adaptation brings to life the epic romance between Yang Guo and Xiaolongnü, two star-crossed lovers destined to defy fate and conquer adversity. "Ode to Gallantry," another cinematic gem on display, transports viewers to the enchanting realm of Jianghu, where alliances are forged and…

Youku unveiled its 2024 "Spring Gathering" lineup, announcing 77 major dramas spanning five categories: historical, suspense, urban, legend, and Hong Kong dramas. However, one series stands out prominently, distinct from the five main categories, it is "Sea of Dreams," adapted from Liu Cixin's eponymous short science fiction story. The mention of "science fiction" stirs mixed feelings. Chinese sci-fi dramas have had a tumultuous track record, with audience expectations rising and falling over the years. There has always been hope that the rise of the Chinese film and TV industry would bring higher-quality local sci-fi productions. However, science fiction remains a "high-hanging fruit" in Chinese dramas, seldom attempted. Few dare to take on the challenge, and even fewer succeed. Thus, upon learning that "Sea of Dreams" is a sci-fi series, one can't help but feel a mix of curiosity and concern. Will this show manage to uphold the promise of Chinese sci-fi, a promise rekindled by "The Wandering Earth," or will it fall short and close the door on this genre once again? "Sea of Dreams" boasts significant pedigree. It is based on Liu Cixin's short story, published in 2002 in the "Science Fiction World" magazine, and tells a wildly imaginative…

"Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Red-Haired Girl" stands as a flagship endeavor in the realm of live-action adaptations of beloved comics, boasting a star-studded cast featuring top-tier actors for both male and female leads. With its pre-release marketing campaigns pulling out all the stops, it seemed almost inevitable that the series would make a splash upon its premiere. However, beneath the surface of initial excitement lies a simmering undercurrent of discontent surrounding "Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Red-Haired Girl." Despite its promising credentials, the series has faced a barrage of criticism from audiences, who have taken aim at its lackluster plot and simplistic dialogue, likening it to children's programming and dubbing it "baby fairy tale martial arts" for turning a revered Chinese comic IP into what feels like juvenile entertainment. As the dust settles after the initial broadcast of "Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Red-Haired Girl," the debate over its merits continues to rage within the online community. While some viewers praise its visual appeal and the performances of its star-studded cast, others remain staunchly critical of its narrative shortcomings and perceived lack of depth. One of the primary grievances leveled against the series is its treatment of the source material. Fans of the original comic,…

"Joy of Life" stands as a representative work in the adaptation of online novel works, and with its performance over two seasons, it is poised to become the most successful TV series adapted from an online novel, provided the third season maintains its quality. The second season builds on and diverges from the first, with the latter emphasizing entertainment and playfulness, while the former embeds a stronger sense of serious drama and critical commentary. This season continues with episodic storytelling, resembling a transformed road movie with its myriad plot threads and diverse characters. To simplify the discussion, let's focus on the characters and their roles in the series.   Scrutinizing Imperial Power One memorable character is Lai Mingcheng (played by Bi Yanjun), the Censorate official whose brief appearance leaves a lasting impact. As a Censorate official, he has the authority to report on any official misconduct and to supervise all officials. Throughout history, Censorate officials have been known for their fearless criticisms of powerful ministers and even the emperor. They enjoy greater freedom of speech and immunity than other officials, and wise emperors are wary of being accused of silencing critics. Some Censorate officials treat their position as a regular…

Content creators who consistently engage with the public's aesthetic preferences are quicker and more acutely aware of changes in audience demands, down to the finest details. Looking back at the content market of the past two years, blockbusters often resonate with real-life experiences or are born in the spiritual homeland of traditional culture. "The Double," an ancient costume drama about women's growth and inspiration, achieved over 10,000 views within three days of its premiere on Youku. It became the fastest drama to reach this milestone in 2024, with the highest first-day viewership and popularity on its launch day. The series has already secured its status as a national hit, driven by word-of-mouth among viewers. Starring Wu Jinyan, Wang Xingyue, and Chen Xinhai, "The Double (Mo Yu Yun Jian, 墨雨云间)" is a historical romance drama that tells the story of Xue Fangfei (played by Wu Jinyan), the daughter of a county magistrate who loses everything after a major upheaval. Under the request of her savior, Jiang Li (played by Yang Chaoyue), the daughter of the Zhongshu Ling, she returns to the capital under Jiang Li's identity. With the help of Duke Xiao Heng (played by Wang Xingyue) and others, she overcomes…

In early May, two mini-series, "Regeneration" and "To the Wonder," quickly stood out with their unique narrative structures, cinematic visuals, and profound philosophical reflections on human nature, rapidly gaining popularity both within and outside the industry. Mid-month, after a five-year hiatus, "Joy of Life Season 2" was finally released, with soaring viewership breaking records and unprecedented competition among advertisers for prime slots, cementing its status upon its debut. By the end of the month, "Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Red-Moon Pact" and "Golden Trio" made a high-profile entrance, sparking heated discussions with their high-profile cast, injecting fresh energy into adaptations and dramas focused on older audiences. From a market performance perspective, "Joy of Life 2" maintained an exceptionally high level of popularity and market share, dominating the landscape. "Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Red-Moon Pact" and "Golden Trio" leveraged strong public appeal to maintain their core audiences. "Regeneration" and "To the Wonder" exceeded market expectations with significant long-tail effects post-broadcast. However, "Reblooming Blue," "Heroes," and "Tell No One" either suffered from limited subject matter appeal or were overshadowed by surprise releases, resulting in relatively underwhelming performances. In terms of reputation, most series scored below 7 out of 10, with no shows reaching a 9.…

Since the premiere of "Joy of Life Season 2," the drama's popularity and discussion levels have soared, leaving other shows behind. Scenes such as the Baoyue Lou and Fan Xian's wedding have continued to be hot topics, with Tencent's peak heat index breaking the 34,000 mark, solidifying its reputation as the "drama king." From the first season of "Joy of Life" in 2019 to the second season five years later, the consistently high levels of discussion and viewership prove the success of "Joy of Life" as a male-oriented IP adaptation. More notably, the second season featured a large number of customized advertisements, demonstrating the market's successful bet on its hit status, adding commercial certainty to such male-oriented IP adaptations. Before "Joy of Life," adaptations of male-oriented dramass had not achieved landmark success. Many male-oriented dramas, after adaptation and airing, did not perform as expected, either due to issues with the plot adaptation or production quality. Therefore, examining the success of "Joy of Life" can outline a replicable commercial path for successful adaptations of male-oriented dramass. The double success of "Joy of Life" over five years has reignited market expectations for male-oriented dramas dramas. Who will be the next drama king?…