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 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 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…

Recently, the female characters in the historical drama "The Double" have sparked much discussion with their pearl makeup. Not only do their hair accessories feature pearls, but their faces are adorned with numerous pearls, too, placed on their foreheads, cheeks, and corners of their mouths. Attentive viewers have counted up to 25 pearls on one face, with the least adorned having 8 pearls. This leads to the question: why do they put pearls on their faces? The Trend of Pearl Makeup The practice of applying pearls on the face dates back to the Song Dynasty and was quite popular at that time. Ancient women used rouge and other pigments to decorate their faces or created various patterns with materials like gold, jade, pearls, and colored paper, which they adhered to their cheeks. This practice was known as "Mian Ye (面靥)," with pearl makeup specifically called "Zhenzhu Mianye." Pearl makeup was actually a form of the ornate makeup from the Tang Dynasty, which became fashionable in the Song Dynasty. This trend persisted partly because the Song Dynasty carried on the traditions of the Tang and Five Dynasties periods, where facial decorations were highly regarded. Additionally, influenced by Zhu Xi's Neo-Confucianism, which…

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…

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…

The initial attraction to "The Story of Suzhou" was its poetic poster. The ancient city’s flowing water, misty bridges, and a beautiful woman standing on a stone slab, separated from the bustling city, captivated many. The poster featured a couplet: "In spring, Suzhou's greenery spans the river, stone bridges and red towers remain unchanged." As the premiere approached, this poetic atmosphere only intensified. The official social media account wrote: "Unveiling the splendor of Suzhou's intangible cultural heritage, weaving a new chapter of millennia-old cultural lineage." Lead actress Xiao Yan said, "Within the opening and closing of scenes, one sees the beauty of intangible heritage, and encounters the vibrant life of Jiangnan in the streets and alleys." In today's extensive audio-visual entertainment landscape, how should cultural and tourism micro-dramas position themselves? What role should these short dramas play in promoting local culture and tourism? "The Story of Suzhou" provides the answer: a key, that fully unlocks the audience's curiosity and desire to explore. Literature once played this role. Wang Anyi casually wrote in her book, "The moonlight in Suzhou seems especially cool and smooth, people feel refreshingly clear, even sleep is clear and bright," sparking readers' longing. "The Story of Suzhou"…

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…

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,…

Peking Opera, which is also called Beijing Opera, is a Chinese theater style that has been around for hundreds of years. It includes singing, acting, dance, and gymnastics. It began in the late 18th century and has become one of China's most important traditional customs. But what is it about Peking Opera that makes it so interesting and different? Let's learn more about the methods and practices that make this art form unique. How Peking Opera Began and How It Has Changed Over Time In the 1790s, four Anhui opera troupes came to Beijing to play for the royal court. This is where Peking Opera got its start. Over time, these troupes mixed styles from around the world with Beijing's own style, which is what we now call Peking Opera. The art form did very well during the Qing Dynasty and kept changing by taking parts from other opera styles and folk arts. Even though it had problems during the Cultural Revolution, Peking Opera has come back to life and continues to amaze people all over the world. Traditional Asian Theater Music Traditional Asian theater music plays a vital role in setting the stage and enhancing the storytelling of various…

"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…

On May, the much-anticipated exhibition "The Diverse Life of Song-Jin Dynasty Murals in Shanxi" opened at the Shanxi Museum. For the first time, this exhibition brings together 89 pieces (15 groups) of precious Song and Jin Dynasty murals and brick carvings from Shanxi, inviting us to delve into the unique allure of these historical artworks. The exhibition vividly showcases themes such as home, celebrations, family values, and wishes depicted in Song-Jin murals, transporting us back to the everyday life of that era. For instance, the mural tomb in Nanguan Village, Fanshi County, Shanxi Province, is a Jin Dynasty brick-carved mural tomb. The tomb murals reflect the traditional layout of Jin Dynasty burial customs in the Central Plains, featuring various treasures, male and female attendants, rockeries and birds, offerings of wealth, and guardian spirits, all illustrating the colorful imagination of the afterlife, striving to ensure a prosperous and stable future world. Murals, one of the oldest forms of Chinese painting. Often found on the walls and ceilings of halls, tombs, temples, and grottoes, these murals provide a glimpse into the social, religious, architectural, artistic, and folk developments over the past two thousand years. In addition to Shanxi’s rich murals, regions from…

In recent years, the trend of female-centric dramas, including ensemble cast dramas and strong female lead dramas, has become prominent. This trend has extended into historical dramas, leading to new narratives where female protagonists build their fortunes and conquer the business world through their own efforts. For instance, "Blossoms in Adversity," which concluded in early May, tells the story of the noblewoman Huazhi who, along with her family, overcomes adversity by starting a business. This wave of female protagonists navigating the business world in historical dramas shows no signs of slowing down. Numerous dramas wrapped filming from last year to this year, featuring female leads as businesswomen. According to official synopses, the female lead in "Liu Zhou Story," Liu Miantang, opens a porcelain shop; the protagonist in "Brocade Odyssey," Ji Yingying, is involved in the Shu brocade business; and the lead in "The Story of Pearl Girl," Duanwu, deals in jewelry. Moreover, the ongoing production "Flourished Peony" will narrate the story of He Weifang, who starts a flower business. Adding to this, "A Dream of Splendor," which aired last year, centers on the tea house owner Zhao Pan'er, who expands her small tea house into the largest restaurant in Dongjing.…