At Tencent’s annual film and TV showcase, "Gu Yue Feng Hua Lu" officially announced Li Yitong as the lead actress. This high-profile drama is a collaboration between Tencent Video and Stellar Gravity, with Wang Yixu as the executive producer, Zhang Jialu as the supervising producer, and Zhao Yilong as the chief director. True to its name, "Gu Yue Feng Hua Lu" centers around traditional Chinese music, innovatively anthropomorphizing ancient Chinese musical instruments, each possessing a unique spirit: the guqin is elegant and solemn, the jade flute is graceful and ethereal, and the pipa is a harmonious blend of strength and gentleness. The essence of the show can be summarized as "Instruments have spirits, and gentlemen master them." What sets "Gu Yue Feng Hua Lu" apart is its collaboration with the China National Traditional Orchestra as the musical advisory unit, marking their first foray into television. This partnership with internationally renowned traditional music experts aims to blend professional knowledge with popular appeal, creating a seamless fusion of tradition and modernity. The drama follows Yue Yangyang (played by Li Yitong), the most formidable musician of her time, and undercover musical spirit Shao Yi as they outwit each other and embark on a…

Yu (屿) is the Chinese pinyin for a wonderful island. In the bustling city of Guangzhou, a culinary gem named Yu has recently ascended to the prestigious ranks of the Michelin Guide, securing its first star. Behind this remarkable achievement stands May, an elegant and accomplished woman with a background in oil painting and a decade of experience in the culinary industry. Her journey from an art school graduate to a Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur is a tale of determination, passion, and a bit of rebellious spirit. The Bold and Brave Path of a Chef Had May followed the path laid out by her parents, both art teachers, she would likely be working in the arts today. Instead, she pursued a different route. May's upbringing in an art-centric household led her to study fine arts and graduate in oil painting. However, upon completing her studies, she embarked on her stubborn and brave rebellious phase. Without formal culinary training, May audaciously approached Michelin-starred restaurants, eager to learn and compete. Financial constraints did not deter her ambition to further her culinary education. She entered high-stakes cooking competitions, earning full scholarships and honing her skills. With a fearless attitude, she established her own…

Baba (粑粑), often overlooked in Northern Chinese cuisine, shines brightly as a beloved staple across Southern China, presenting a vast universe of culinary delights that rival the variety of Bing (饼), Mo (馍), and Huoshao (火烧). This versatile delicacy, ranging from plain to filled, sweet to savory, and steamed to fried, embodies the rich culinary traditions and diverse flavors of the region. Let's embark on a journey to uncover the cultural heritage and regional variations of Baba, celebrated in provinces like Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, and beyond. Basic Baba: Essence of Simplicity In its simplest form, Baba requires nothing more than grains and water, cooked in a manner that elevates simplicity to sublime flavors. In Xiangxi, glutinous rice Baba reigns supreme as a classic. During the lunar twelfth month, every household steams glutinous rice, pounding it into soft, sticky balls. Shaped into moon-like discs, these Baba are cooled in cold water for preservation until spring. Variations include sorghum Baba made with sticky sorghum, offering a different texture and taste experience. Baba can be pan-fried, cooked in soup with sliced strips, but its most beloved preparation involves direct grilling over charcoal. The heated Baba puffs up like balls, developing a golden crispy…

When traveling to Fujian, a southeastern province of China, one must immerse themselves in the region's diverse and rich culinary landscape. Fujian cuisine, often overshadowed by its spicier counterparts from other regions, offers a unique blend of flavors that highlight the natural sweetness and freshness of its ingredients. Here, we'll explore the delectable delights of Fuzhou and Quanzhou, two cities that epitomize Fujian's gastronomic charm. Fuzhou: A Symphony of Sweet and Fresh Flavors Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian, is renowned for its distinctive sweet and fresh flavors. The city's cuisine is a harmonious blend of sweetness that doesn't overpower but enhances the natural taste of its ingredients. Lychee Pork: A Sweet Surprise Before visiting Fuzhou, I had heard about the famous lychee pork and was curious to try it. Contrary to its name, lychee pork does not contain any lychees. Instead, the dish is named for the pork's lychee-like appearance. The meat is coated in a batter, deep-fried, and then stir-fried in a tangy tomato-based sauce. Its taste is reminiscent of sweet and sour pork, a beloved dish in northeastern Chinese cuisine. This sweetness is a hallmark of many Fuzhou dishes, such as stir-fried pork liver and drunken ribs. While…

Zhang Yuxi, this female artist who has an extremely beautiful face and extraordinary talents, has always been the focus of everyone's attention. Her excellent performance in the variety show "First Grade" left a deep impression, and her love story with Wang Sicong even made people sigh at her maturity in emotional handling. Especially when she walked out of the country in a gorgeous cheongsam, her elegant posture and noble temperament instantly became the focus of the whole audience, and her name also became a synonym for beauty. Since Zhang Yuxi made her debut, she has won widespread love with her natural beauty. Her clear eyes and delicate features bring visual enjoyment every time she appears in front of the camera. Not only that, the elegant temperament and proper behavior that Zhang Yuxi shows on multiple occasions make her the goddess in the hearts of many fans. Whether at banquets or events, she can always show her own style, whether it is decent dresses or casual clothes, she can show her unique charm. And the charm of Zhang Yuxi in a cheongsam is even more irresistible. On the streets abroad, she was dressed in a yellow printed cheongsam, and the classical…

Some people once said that putting on a cheongsam seems to be revisiting the thousands-of-years-old traditional virtues of Chinese women. And when Zhang Man Yu wears a cheongsam, it is precisely to interpret this virtue to the fullest: dignified and intellectual, gentle and generous, implicit and moderate. Every expression and gesture reveals the unique charm and quietness of women. As a representative of traditional Chinese women's clothing, with its unique design and elegant charm, the cheongsam showcases the traditional virtues of Chinese women for thousands of years. However, for the same wearing of a cheongsam, some people can be out of the ordinary, while some are plain and unremarkable, and the key lies in the temperament and self-cultivation of the wearer. The appeal of the cheongsam lies in its peculiar oriental charm, and the perfect presentation of this charm requires inner cultivation and bearing. Zhang Man Yu is a good example. Her unique oriental feminine charm allows her to interpret it to the fullest when wearing a cheongsam. Her eyes are graceful, and her steps are elegant, and every expression and gesture reveals the unique charm and quietness of women. Compared with Zhang Man Yu, some young female stars had…

The 2024 "Silk Road Week" grandly opened at the China National Silk Museum! The highlight of this event is the grand exhibition "The Silk Road's Chang'an," officially launched with over 210 artifacts on display, including more than 50 first-class relics. The exhibition is divided into five sections, showcasing a vibrant, diverse, open, and integrated Chang'an through aspects such as politics, economy, culture, lifestyle, and its long-standing connections with Zhejiang. Chang'an, the ancient name for Xi'an, located in the central Guanzhong Plain, is one of the cradles of Chinese civilization. Historically, over ten dynasties, including the Western Han, Xin, Eastern Han, Western Jin, Former Zhao, Former Qin, Later Qin, Western Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, and Tang, established their capitals here over a span of more than a thousand years. It is the city with the longest history, most dynasties, greatest influence, and richest heritage in Chinese history. During the Han and Tang dynasties, Chang'an was the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, a crucial node connecting the Eurasian continent. With its thriving economy, splendid culture, and inclusive nature, it became an undeniable global metropolis and a center of cultural exchange between China and the world. This year marks the 10th…

Since its inception, "The Tale of Rose" has been under the spotlight, garnering significant attention throughout its development. Firstly, the involvement of director Wang Jun and screenwriter Li Xiao, both renowned for their urban-themed works and recognized by the Magnolia Awards, along with the addition of Liu Yifei, has heightened audience anticipation. Additionally, the drama is produced by New Classics Media, a subsidiary of China Literature Group, known for its leading role in urban dramas and its expertise in adapting Yi Shu's works, with an impeccable track record. However, the project also faces considerable pressure. How can it cultivate something unique in the well-trodden field of female-centric dramas? How can it navigate shifting audience tastes amidst changing public discourse? How can it avoid being pigeonholed? "The Tale of Rose" explores love but avoids compensatory romanticism. It portrays independent, free-spirited modern women without pandering to idealistic fantasies. Using a realistic approach, it depicts a courageous and evolving female protagonist. Despite not taking the shortcut of sensationalism, it still deeply resonates with the audience. Its professionalism shines through practical yet imaginative symbolism, clever cross-cutting, and meticulous visual details, constantly drawing viewers into the main story. On social media, many analyze its buried…

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…

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…

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,…

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 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…

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"…

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.…

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?…

The market for historical costume dramas, primarily targeting young audiences, has always welcomed the arrival of dramas with higher attractiveness, fresher faces, and more sophisticated costume and set designs. Even before the arrival of summer, various types of historical costume dramas based on IP have flooded the market. Leading the charge is "Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Red-Moon Pact," the first live-action adaptation of the popular anime "Fox Spirit Matchmaker," produced by iQIYI. Starring Yang Mi and Gong Jun, it is an eastern fantasy drama. The strong appeal of A-list actors, magnificent scenery, and exquisite costume design have become the magic weapons for attracting attention and winning over fans. With top-notch production values, the series delivers a visual feast, presenting a dazzling array of beauties and scenery imbued with Eastern charm, immersing viewers in its splendor. Many have predicted that "Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Red-Moon Pact" will surely secure a place on the hot drama charts at the end of May. As expected, the drama's premiere attracted attention, with its popularity on streaming platforms surpassing 8888 within 19 hours. It quickly climbed to the top spot on popular drama charts on platforms from the second day of its TV broadcast. Various trending topics…

In the scorching heat of summer, ancient Chinese people didn't have sunscreen, but they took sun protection seriously. Though the concept of physical sunscreen is a recent development, the approach to sun protection was quite similar: "shade" was key. Follow BAZAAR CHINOISERIE to learn how ancient people protected themselves from the sun. To shield themselves from the sun while staying mobile, a sun hat is the perfect summer accessory. Surprisingly, "sun hats" aren't a modern invention; they're mentioned directly in ancient texts. For instance, during the Ming Dynasty, the "Xu Tong Dian" listed various hats, mentioning: "Sun hats were permitted for scholars entering the imperial examinations during the early Ming Dynasty. (遮阳帽，明初士人贡举入监者许戴之。)" Similarly, the "Jian Hu Ji" describes the "sun hat" as follows: "According to Ming regulations, scholars could wear large sun hats after completing their studies at the imperial college, similar to the ancient bamboo hats or the Tang dynasty silk hats. (明制。士子入胄监满日。许戴遮阳大帽。即古笠。又唐时所谓席帽也。)" In addition, there were also Weimao (帷帽) popular during the Tang and Song dynasties. These hats had thin gauze attached under wide brims, offering advanced sun protection while also shielding against some wind and dust. Curtain hats, also known as Zhaojun hats, are said to be…