The Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE), though lasting merely 15 years, revolutionized China. The first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang (秦始皇), abolished feudalism, replacing it with a centralized bureaucracy. Standardized weights, measures, and script unified the realm, while massive projects—the Great Wall, Lingqu Canal, and the emperor's mausoleum with its Terracotta Army—showcased state power. However, harsh laws, forced labor, and censorship bred widespread resentment, leading to rebellions after the emperor's death. Join us in time travel: Explore Qin Dynasty epics where gripping storytelling meets historical truths, and discover why these cultural echoes still resonate today. The Qin Empire Series 大秦帝国系列 The Qin Empire series (2009–2020) stands as a towering achievement in historical television, offering a panoramic chronicle of the Qin state's evolution from a beleaguered frontier territory to the unifier of China under its first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Spanning four seasons and over a decade of production, this epic saga combines meticulous historical research with gripping drama, illuminating the ideological, military, and cultural forces that forged imperial China. More than a mere retelling of events, the series grapples with profound questions about power, governance, and the human cost of progress, making it an essential watch for both history enthusiasts…

In 960 CE, as the fractured Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period (五代十国时期) teetered toward collapse, a shrewd general named Zhao Kuangyin staged a bloodless coup, donning the imperial yellow robe to found the Song Dynasty (960–1279 CE). This era became a paradox of Chinese history—a golden age of artistic refinement and technological genius shadowed by relentless military threats. The Song split into the Northern Song, with its dazzling capital Bianjing, and the Southern Song, exiled to Hangzhou after the catastrophic Jingkang Incident of 1127, where Jurchen invaders shattered the court's complacency. Under the Song, China thrived as a cosmopolitan marvel: scholar-officials like Wang Anshi reimagined governance through bold reforms, poets such as Su Shi penned verses that still ache with beauty, and innovations like movable type printing ignited a knowledge revolution. Yet the dynasty's intellectual and economic zenith clashed with existential crises—Khitan horsemen, Xi Xia uprisings, and the Mongol storm looming on the horizon. Behind the serene ink-wash landscapes lay a world of cutthroat politics: literati factions warring over reform, emperors balancing Confucian ideals with pragmatism, and generals like Yue Fei sacrificing all to "serve the nation with utmost loyalty." Step into dramas where silk-clad scholars debate in lantern-lit…

If you think lotus leaf hats are a modern trend, our ancestors would surely laugh at you: "You kids are so outdated and unfashionable!" This iconic headwear dates back much earlier than you might imagine, with roots tracing to the Northern and Southern Dynasties. Historical records like "The History of the Northern Dynasties" mention bearers wearing them in summer, while "Tales of the Hidden World" from the Liu Song Dynasty recounts a sorcerer tricking a governor into wearing a magical lotus hat that later revealed its true form, astonishing everyone. The most vivid depiction appears in Ming Dynasty painter Qiu Ying's "Assembly of the Immortals," showcasing an immortal wearing an identical lotus leaf hat. Nature has always been the muse for innovation. Later adaptations led to rounded hats with varying materials—felt caps from wool, blended silk - wool Diexiao hats, and pure silk variants. The key difference lay in "dyed silk replacing wool," as noted in historical texts. This accessory became a cinematic staple too, like Yang Fangbing's portrayal of Yang Guifei, whose hat dripped with pearl strands resembling dewdrops on lotus leaves. Among the Yi ethnic group in Sichuan's high - altitude Meigu County, married women wear similar hats…

In the past, historical dramas often featured costumes with large necklines, resembling an ancient version of 'deep V-necks.' But were such off-shoulder outfits truly worn in history? And why are they less common in modern productions? There were indeed similar styles, at most revealing the neck. Historical artifacts like the murals from Xu Xianxiu's tomb and figurines from the Wei-Jin period might give the impression of off-shoulder outfits. However, these were typically layered with undergarments beneath the outer robe. For instance, during the Northern and Southern Dynasties, the 'Da Xiu Ru' (大袖襦) was popular. This style, often seen in figurines, featured wide sleeves, though only sleeve fragments have been unearthed so far. Based on these artifacts and the characteristics of 'Ru,' scholars have reconstructed how the Da Xiu Ru might have looked, with variations in neckline size. Notably, figurines wearing such large-neckline outfits invariably have a circular or horizontal line around the neck, representing the collar of an undergarment or 'Liang Dang' (裲裆). By the Southern Dynasties, waistlines of skirts rose to the chest, while some upper garments retained the Da Xiu Ru style. The necklines during this period resembled modern cinematic effects, barely revealing the collarbone. However, achieving the…

Dilraba Dilmurat (迪丽热巴) has redefined versatility in Chinese costume dramas, seamlessly shifting from mischievous fox spirits to battle-hardened warriors. Her ability to anchor fantastical plots with emotional authenticity makes her a standout in the genre. Take The Long Ballad: As Li Changge, she delivered a masterclass in restraint, whether strategizing siege defenses or silently mourning her family's massacre. In Eternal Love of Dream, she balanced Bai Fengjiu's whimsy with grit, turning a lovestruck princess into a symbol of resilience. These roles aren't just performances—they're blueprints for how modern xianxia and historical dramas can prioritize character over spectacle. Below, we break down five dramas that showcase her range, each distinct in tone yet unified by her magnetic presence. Eternal Love of Dream 三生三世枕上书 Aired: 2020 Period Background: Mythological fantasy world spanning three lifetimes. Genres: Romance, Fantasy, Xianxia. Main Roles: Dilraba as Bai Fengjiu, a nine-tailed fox princess; Gao Weiguang as Dong Hua Dijun. Adapted From: Tang Qi Gongzi's novel Three Lives, Three Worlds: The Pillow Book. Spanning three lifetimes, Eternal Love of Dream follows Bai Fengjiu, a fiery nine-tailed fox princess from the Qingqiu fox tribe, as she relentlessly pursues Dong Hua Dijun, an ancient deity who sacrificed his emotions to…

Bai Lu's (白鹿) rise in costume dramas isn't just about beauty—it's a masterclass in versatility. From the tender restraint of a noblewoman to the fiery swagger of a rebel queen, she molds each role into something unforgettable. Take The Journey of Chong Zi: her character Cui Shiyi, a reserved heiress bound by tradition, contrasts sharply with The Legends of Lu Zhaoyao, a leather-clad warlord who smirks while swinging a sword. Even within a single series, like Song of Youth, she shifts seamlessly from Ming-dynasty elegance in embroidered silk to comedic chaos in slapstick disguises. Her secret? She leans into extremes. In The Legends, a crimson robe and unapologetic red eyeliner scream "villainess," while in Court Lady, a single red-dress dance scene—all swirling sleeves and defiant glances—cements her as the queen of physical storytelling. No two roles blur; each is a bold, deliberate stroke on a growing canvas of reinvention. This article highlights her top works, blending rich storytelling, cultural depth, and performances that transcend language barriers. One and Only 周生如故 Aired: 2021 Period Background: Set in a fictional dynasty mirroring the Northern and Southern Dynasties (420–589 CE), a turbulent era marked by fractured kingdoms, military coups, and rigid Confucian social…

If you've ever wondered how Chinese historical dramas blend martial arts, romance, and myth into binge-worthy spectacles, Wang Hedi (王鹤棣) is your gateway actor. Known for roles that demand both physicality and emotional depth—like the time-traveling detective in Guardians of the Dafeng—Wang has become a defining face of China's costume drama boom. This article breaks down Wang Hedi's essential costume dramas, highlighting what makes each unique: intricate worldbuilding, genre-blending narratives, and performances that transcend language barriers. Guardians of the Dafeng 大奉打更人 Aired: 2025 Period Background: A fictional dynasty inspired by the Tang and Ming dynasties, blending historical aesthetics with fantasy elements. Genres: Historical fantasy, mystery, romance, comedy. Main Roles: Wang Hedi as Xu Qi'an, Tian Xiwei as Princess Lin'an Adapted From: The hit web novel of the same name by Mai Bao Xiao Lang Jun The series opens with Xu Qi'an investigating a series of ritualistic murders linked to a cult worshipping the "White Bone Goddess." Using forensic techniques alien to the Great Feng—like analyzing blood spatter patterns and soil samples—he exposes a plot to destabilize the throne. However, the deeper he digs, the more he uncovers about his own mysterious arrival in this era, including cryptic clues left by…

In period dramas and ancient-style photography, cloaks are a common sight, but did you know they are actually a modern hybrid of Chinese and Western influences? The traditional Chinese cloak, known as 'Dou Peng,' typically consists of a separate hood and outer garment. The cloak itself refers to the outer layer, possibly derived from the design of straw raincoats (Suoyi). This separation allows for versatility—wearing just the cloak for warmth or pairing it with a hood in harsh weather. The hood, called 'Feng Mao' or 'Guanyin Dou,' serves its own practical purpose. Illustrations from Sun Wen's 'Dream of the Red Chamber' depict cloaks without hoods: sleeveless, loose, ankle-length, with either no collar or a standing collar, and front panels that drape naturally. Some feature attached straps for ease of movement, worn draped over the shoulders. Resembling an upside-down ancient bell, these cloaks were also called 'Yi Kou Zhong' (一口钟) or 'Yi Guo Yuan' (一裹圆) during the Qing Dynasty and in modern academia. This design aligns with the cloaks seen in the 1987 adaptation of 'Dream of the Red Chamber,' where the hood and cloak are separate. Modern depictions of cloaks often blend early straw raincoats and bamboo hats (Douli). Some…

When watching costume dramas, we often wonder why the ones we watched in our childhood still feel like authentic period pieces, while the current ones seem more like modern dramas set in ancient settings. There are numerous reasons for this. Let's start from the beginning. Liu Hai (刘海) One of the most common styling elements in modern costume dramas is Liu Hai. In the early days, the most common type was probably the wispy bangs similar to those in Princess Returning Pearl. Later, all kinds of bangs became ubiquitous, including side-swept bangs and straight-across bangs. Even characters in the martial arts world often have a rebellious strand of hair hanging in front of their foreheads. Actually, after reaching adulthood in ancient times, it was a basic courtesy for both men and women to keep their hair tidy. Even those living in the martial arts world adhered to the principle of "the body and hair are gifts from parents." Confucianism even condemned loose - haired people as barbarians. In public, men usually wore hats or scarves, and women coiled their hair or used hairpins to tie it up. Unless in extreme situations where they were unable to manage their hair, hairstyles…

As one of China's most versatile actors, Xiao Zhan (肖战) has carved a unique niche in the world of historical and fantasy serie. His roles often showcase not only his acting range but also the intricate beauty of traditional Chinese aesthetics—from flowing hanfu robes to meticulously recreated imperial settings. Whether you're drawn to epic tales of loyalty and heroism, intricate political intrigues, or soul-stirring romances set against mythical backdrops, Xiao Zhan's dramas deliver unforgettable narratives. This guide will spotlight his most iconic period dramas. Prepare to be captivated by sword-clashing grandeur, poetic storytelling, and a star whose talent shines as brightly as the worlds he brings to life. Cang Hai Zhuan 藏海传 Aired: 2025 (Upcoming) Genres: Historical, Political Intrigue, Revenge Main Roles: Xiao Zhan (Cang Hai), Zhang Jingyi (Xiang Antu) Set in the fictional Great Yong dynasty, Cang Hai Zhuan revolves around the titular character (Xiao Zhan), a survivor of a clan massacre who dedicates a decade to mastering strategy, craftsmanship, and political manipulation. His mission: infiltrate the imperial court disguised as a scholar to unravel the conspiracy behind his family's annihilation. The story intertwines personal vengeance with national salvation as Cang Hai climbs the bureaucratic ladder, forging fragile alliances…

Imagine wandering through mist-shrouded mountains where immortal cultivators duel with spells, or bustling Tang Dynasty markets humming with Silk Road traders and political conspiracies. This is the world of Wang Yibo's Period dramas—a gateway to China's mythic past, where history and fantasy collide in breathtaking spectacle. Wang Yibo (王一博), a rising star with over 40 million Instagram followers, has become an unlikely ambassador of Chinese culture. His roles—whether as a stoic swordsman, a rogue prince, or a genius scholar—transcend language barriers, blending Confucian ideals with modern charisma. Below is a curated guide to his Top 3 Period Dramas. The Untamed 陈情令 Aired: June–August 2019 Period Background: Fictional ancient China, inspired by the Five Great Clans system. Genres: Fantasy, Xianxia (immortal heroes), Mystery, Bromance Main Roles: Wang Yibo as Lan Wangji (蓝忘机), Xiao Zhan as Wei Wuxian (魏无羡) Adaptation Source: Based on Mo Xiang Tong Xiu's novel Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation At its core, The Untamed is a story of defiance and devotion. Set in a world where powerful clans cultivate spiritual energy to combat supernatural evils, the series follows two contrasting souls: Lan Wangji, the icy yet righteous heir of the Gusu Lan Clan, and Wei Wuxian, a free-spirited prodigy…

In The Rise of Ning (锦绣安宁), a new historical drama adapted from the novel Prime Minister’s Guide, two characters with humble beginnings navigate their way through the complexities of power and family dynamics. This isn’t merely a story of one individual's transformation—it’s a journey of dual growth, where both the male and female protagonists pursue justice and empowerment from their disadvantaged positions. With rich character development, the series introduces Ro Shenyuan (罗慎远) and Ro Yining (罗宜宁), two resilient figures overcoming their oppressive family backgrounds in strikingly parallel paths. This "dual upbringing" concept presents audiences with a captivating exploration of ambition, loyalty, and self-discovery. Ro Shenyuan’s Path: The Underdog Turned Conqueror Ro Shenyuan's backstory is riddled with hardship and resilience. As a neglected son in a prominent household, he endures the harsh treatment of a father who sees little worth in him. Forbidden from pursuing education or even stepping outside the manor, Shenyuan’s world is small and brutal. Yet, despite his father’s antagonism, Shenyuan’s intelligence and hidden ambition carve out a different path for him. With the help of a beloved teacher, he discovers the courage to rise above his fate. Tragically, his mentor's unjust death becomes a lifelong source of…

"Flames," (烈焰) starring Ren Jialun (任嘉伦), has set ablaze the summer TV lineup with its gripping storyline and state-of-the-art visual effects. Adapted from the popular webcomic "Wu Geng Ji," (武庚纪) the series has not only won over loyal fans of the original but also attracted a new wave of viewers, marking a significant milestone in the realm of Chinese fantasy adaptations. Since its debut in the spring of 2024, "Flames" has dominated streaming platforms, topping charts with an impressive viewership of over 12.84 billion cumulative views. Its success extends internationally, capturing the top spot on iQiyi's international platform in 14 countries and regions, spreading Chinese heroic tales and Eastern culture worldwide. The series' success lies in its meticulous attention to detail and bold innovations. Unlike previous adaptations that often faltered in fidelity to the source material, "Flames" combines faithful adaptation with creative liberties, enhancing the narrative's depth and visual appeal. This approach not only pleased existing fans but also attracted a broader audience intrigued by its immersive world-building and compelling characters. Crafting Visual Spectacles with Precision At the core of "Flames" is its groundbreaking use of visual effects (VFX), which elevate the storytelling to cinematic levels. Unlike typical TV productions, which often rely on a…

In the realm of television drama, the wait for the second season of "Longing Heart" (长相思) has been a topic of anticipation among fans for nearly a year, following the resounding success of its first season. Recently, the official Weibo account of "Longing Heart" announced that Season 2 is scheduled to premiere on July 8th, featuring the original cast. According to a report from Cover News on July 3rd, the series will exclusively debut on Jiangsu TV on the same date. Let's rewind to July 2023 when the entire 39 episodes of "Longing Heart" Season 1 premiered on online streaming platforms. Shortly after its release, the series gained immense popularity, surpassing 33,000 in heat value due to its unique storyline, distinct characters, and high production standards. It became one of the hottest dramas of the summer of 2023. With the announcement of the premiere date for Season 2, glimpses of its standout scenes and climactic moments have already heightened audience expectations through teaser trailers. Particularly poignant scenes, evident from the trailers, showcase the emotional entanglements of the characters. Jiangsu TV has further indicated that they will innovate by airing both seasons consecutively: re-airing Season 1 during daytime slots and premiering…

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…

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 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…

This year, the film industry has witnessed a perplexing move with the movie "Nothing Can't Be Undone by a Hotpot" being pulled from theaters and switched to streaming online. Just five days after its release, the film was withdrawn from cinemas, citing "various environmental factors" leading to low scheduling rates, with plans to re-release it at a later date. However, just six days after its withdrawal, this movie, originally intended for theatrical release, suddenly appeared online where it became accessible to subscribers without even a separate fee, leaving those who had paid for tickets feeling betrayed. This shift has significantly impacted Yang Mi, the lead actress, beyond just the director. This year has been pivotal for her, with not only "Nothing Can't Be Undone by a Hotpot" but also the spy drama "In the Name of the Brother," marking a substantial shift in her career towards both film and television. These roles signal a clear intention to transform, aligning with the broader trend among her peers from the post-85 actors, striving to redefine their artistic directions.   Post-85 Full-scale Transformation in Film and Drama With "In the Name of the Brother" setting the stage and "Nothing Can't Be Undone by…

The throne of the hottest TV drama on iQIYI in 2024 has been updated once again, and this time it is claimed by the espionage drama "In the Name of the Brother". Perhaps the initial audience was drawn by the refreshing combination of the lead actors, Qin Hao and Yang Mi, but after watching a dozen episodes, viewers were undoubtedly captivated by the solid performance of the formidable creative duo, director Zhang Li and screenwriter Wang Xiaoqiang. In recent times, several period espionage dramas have emerged on the market, yet "In the Name of the Brother" not only airs simultaneously during prime time on three major TV stations, garnering widespread attention, but its online popularity continues to soar, fueling ongoing discussions and upholding the vitality of classic espionage narratives. A remark from a fervent viewer in the barrage succinctly encapsulates the audience's visceral experience: "Since watching this TV drama, I am always on edge." Despite the buzz surrounding topics like "Qin Hao taking on the challenge of portraying dual roles" and "Yang Mi's debut as a villain in a period drama", "In the Name of the Brother" does not rely on these as gimmicks. Instead, it weaves a tale around…

In the year 2024, the espionage genre is experiencing a long-awaited resurgence. On one hand, the innovative spy drama "War of Faith" has just concluded with great success, while on the other hand, "In the Name of the Brother" is quickly taking the spotlight. Looking at the lineup, the director is Zhang Li, and the screenwriter is Wang Xiaoqiang, both of whom have produced excellent works in the past, with Wang Xiaoqiang excelling in the espionage genre. As for the cast, Yang Mi partners with Qin Hao, possessing both beauty and acting skills. "In the Name of the Brother" is set in the puppet state of Manchukuo before the victory of the War of Resistance Against Japan, telling the story of Communist intelligence officer Song Zhuowen (played by Qin Hao) being mistaken as a savior by Guan Xue (played by Yang Mi), who is the head of the Special Service Department of the Harbin Police Bureau. Song Zhuowen, who is actually his brother Song Zhuowu, then infiltrates the enemy's ranks with a calculated plan. Thus, a grand drama of twin spies unfolds. Familiar with Espionage Dramas "In the Name of the Brother" exudes a sense of urgency from the very…