The current domestic ancient costume drama market leaves much to be desired. Although both 'A Lifelong Journey' and 'Ballad of the Recluse' have their own highlights, the former's ratings are on a downward trend, and the latter has polarized reviews, failing to reach the standard of a hit drama. There are several anticipated works in the upcoming drama list. For example, 'Fragrant Orchids Forever' starring Tan Songyun is a female - themed drama that audiences love. It unfolds a 'double's escape' from a female - lead perspective, and the protagonist breaks class barriers single - handedly. It is expected to achieve good results after its premiere. Another one is 'The Pillow of Mountains and Rivers' starring Ding Yuxi and Song Qian, which tells an exciting story of the male protagonist defending the country and avenging his blood feud centered around battlefield battles and court intrigue. The pseudo - 'uncle - niece - in - law' relationship between the male and female leads adds a strong sense of taboos.
However, there has been no good news about these two dramas. Instead, 'Dream of Qingchuan' premiered on Bilibili and topped the popularity chart in just 4 hours. Meanwhile, fresh reviews on Douban are out, with a large number of four - star and five - star ratings. After binge - watching 4 episodes, I have to say this ancient costume drama is a must - watch!
'Dream of Qingchuan' tells the story of Mo Qingchuan (played by Guo Xiaoting), who is framed for treason. After surviving a near - death experience, she returns under the alias Mo Wang and becomes a master - apprentice with Xia Qiguang, the prince of Jing. Together, they find the real traitor and avenge her father. As a revenge - themed drama, it presents two major highlights at the beginning.
First, court intrigue. The drama starts with the scene of Mo Qingchuan being captured and tortured by the enemy. The cruel scene is filled with hatred, instantly drawing the audience into the female lead's emotions. Five years later, Mo Qingchuan, seemingly having lost her martial arts skills, returns as Mo Wang. On the way back to his fief, the King of Jing (played by Liu Yaoyang) is attacked. The steward of the attacker seems to be under a spell and attacks the King of Jing. When the killers signal their success, a mysterious person in the capital courtyard sighs, 'Good.' Xia Qiguang offended the in - laws of the Queen Mother, and soon after, the Prince of Jing's mansion is besieged by killers. It's hard to believe that the Cao family has nothing to do with this. Although the female lead arrives late, she manages to save the Prince of Jing. There must be some connection between her, the Cao family, and the Prince of Jing's mansion. So, was her being framed for 'treason' a scheme by the royal family? The hooks set by the drama are captivating.
Second, the martial arts world. The Prince of Jing's mansion is attacked by the Suoque Gate, a martial arts organization. The appearance of the Chan - grade killers adds a stronger flavor of martial arts. The intense fight between the two groups outside the post - station in the dark forest creates a strong sense of solemnity. The smooth and fluid action scenes are real - deal, without any cheesy slow - motion spins. The clashing sounds of weapons are immersive. 'Dream of Qingchuan' perfectly combines power - struggle revenge with the martial arts world. The plot is full of suspense, and Mo Qingchuan gets involved in the game. How will she find the truth about the defeat of the Mo family's army and clear her name? After Xia Qiguang's right - hand meridians are severed by the killers of the Suoque Gate, how will he learn martial arts and avenge his father? We can only explore the subsequent plot.
All - Star Cast with Excellent Performances
Although 'Dream of Qingchuan' is just a small online drama, its cast is impressive. Young actors come together to present a great show.
Guo Xiaoting, a golden supporting actress in the domestic drama market, has stood out with her acting skills in many dramas. In the new drama, Mo Qingchuan, played by her, bears the hatred of her country and family. When she learns of the King of Jing's death, her sad emotions are highly contagious. Zhou Lijie plays Xia Qiguang, the prince of Jing. When he witnesses his father's murder, his sad expression and grief - stricken eyes are heart - wrenching. Yang Fuyu plays Jiang Kui, a 'witch' with high - level martial arts. When seeing Xia Qiguang coming to apprentice, her smiling appearance is so endearing. Liu Yaoyang's King of Jing shows vivid fatherly love. It's a pity that this character exits the stage in the first episode. Xu Weidong plays Shi Tou, a pawn used by the Cao family to test Xia Qiguang. Defeated on the martial arts stage, Shi Tou admits defeat verbally but still has a hint of contempt in his eyes. In addition, actors like Yuan Mingze, Zhao Chongyue, and Xiong Yifan also give excellent performances in the drama. Their on - stage performances together present a vivid group of characters to the audience.
In conclusion, in recent years, themes of revenge and power struggle have become popular in ancient costume dramas. From 'The Grace of the Gilded Age' to 'The Hidden Sea', many excellent dramas have emerged in the domestic drama market this year. Therefore, even as an online drama, 'Dream of Qingchuan' can easily become a 'dark horse' in the domestic drama field. With rich highlights and the participation of young actors, this new drama is full of freshness and appeal. Currently, the drama is still being updated. I wonder if you like it? This is just my personal opinion, for reference only.
