After the market saw the decline of the once-dominant "palace intrigue" and "time-travel" dramas, similar genres like "family intrigue" and "rebirth" dramas have experienced a resurgence in recent years. Combining the elements of both "family intrigue" and "rebirth," new series have emerged, doubling the dramatic conflicts and emotional thrills that keep female audiences hooked. Last year's hits "Story of Kunning Palace," "Scent of Time," and "Romance on the Farm," as well as this year's "The Double," are all prime examples. But what exactly is the allure of "palace intrigue" and "family intrigue"? And why do "time-travel" and "rebirth" continue to captivate audiences?   Competitive Spirit vs. Intrigue Although "competitive femininity" is often criticized, the "battle of wits" undeniably captivates audiences. Traditional palace intrigue dramas revolve around competitive femininity, where palace women vie for favor, either actively or passively, engaging in a struggle filled with both overt and covert schemes. The distorted human nature and malevolent hearts revealed in these struggles act as a vivid moral lesson in human depravity. The strategies employed by the female protagonist in battling the surrounding enemy forces in the palace provide a lively display of practical wisdom. While competitive femininity may not align with the…

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…

At the recent red carpet of the movie event, Na Ran became the focus of everyone's attention with her astonishing beauty and unique style. She was dressed in a black cheongsam and held a folding fan, transforming into a classic beauty, showing a kind of transcendent and refined classical charm, which made the whole place amazed. Na Ran's black cheongsam is undoubtedly the highlight of her entire look. This cheongsam perfectly outlines her figure curve, showing her elegance and sexiness. The black fabric exudes a mysterious atmosphere and complements Na Ran's temperament. The delicate embroidery and detailed processing on the cheongsam add a touch of nobility and magnificence, making people can't help but admire it. And the folding fan in Na Ran's hand adds a touch of agility and playfulness to her look. The folding fan has always been a symbol of women's elegance and wisdom in traditional Chinese culture, and Na Ran skillfully used this element to create a beautiful woman full of classical charm. She gently shakes the folding fan, sometimes showing a charming smile, and sometimes showing a sharp look, as if telling an ancient and touching story. Na Ran's skin is as smooth as jade, which…

Recently, the Hunan Museum unveiled a 3D digital avatar of Lady Xin Zhui, captivating enthusiasts of traditional Chinese attire. This legendary figure has always sparked endless discussions. Currently on display at the Hunan Museum’s “Women of the Han Dynasty and the Roman Empire” exhibition is a 48-gram Quju robe that has never been exhibited before, adding a touch of legendary charm. Let’s journey back to the summer of 1972. Lady Xin Zhui, the wife of Li Cang, the first Marquis of Changsha from the early Western Han Dynasty, was unearthed from the Mawangdui Han tombs in Changsha, Hunan. Upon excavation, Xin Zhui’s face was well-preserved, and she was dressed in intricately decorated silk garments, exuding an aura of grace and nobility. However, due to prolonged submersion in the waterlogged tomb, the silk fabrics wrapping her body had fused together. After much discussion, the archaeological team decided to follow the advice of Hunan Provincial Museum’s then-deputy director Hou Liang. They inserted a large wooden board into the side of the wooden coffin, then slowly tilted the coffin towards the board until it was completely flat, allowing them to transfer Xin Zhui onto the board. This method enabled the safe extraction of…

In the magnificent long river of traditional Chinese culture, the cheongsam is like a wonderful flower, exuding eternal charm. Entering the Chinese Cheongsam Museum is like starting a journey through time and space, allowing people to appreciate the unique charm and profound cultural heritage of this classic dress. Here, not only the evolution process of the cheongsam is displayed, but also through one exquisite exhibit after another, we can get a glimpse of the social features and aesthetic changes in the Republic of China era. The Precipitation of History and the Inheritance of Beauty In the depths of the cheongsam museum, there are precious photos of famous ladies and stars in the Republic of China era wearing cheongsams. Their elegant postures and the magnificence of the cheongsams complement each other, forming a series of moving pictures that make visitors can't help but be intoxicated. The bright red satin round flower auspicious dress robe in the Qing Dynasty, with its luxury and solemnity, makes people respectful. As a formal dress for grand occasions under the conditions of the Qing Dynasty ritual system, women could not expose curves like in modern times, and the ingenious concealment of the female curves in its…

In the subways of the city, a group of grandmas wearing cheongsams have become a unique landscape. Though they are over fifty years old, they show the everlasting charm with their confident and elegant postures. These "subway cheongsam grandmas" use their dressing and temperament to interpret for people what true fashion and beauty are. The Charm of Cheongsam: Inheritance and Innovation As a traditional female costume in China, the cheongsam has a long history and profound cultural heritage. With its unique cutting and design, it shows the elegance and graceful figure of women. However, with the change of times, the cheongsam is also constantly innovating and developing. Modern cheongsams retain traditional elements, and incorporate fashionable designs and elements, making them more suitable for modern women to wear. These subway cheongsam grandmas choose the cheongsam as their daily dress, which is not only the inheritance and promotion of traditional culture, but also the display of their own beauty and confidence. They use their own ways to put on the traditional costume with a new style and charm. Tips for Selecting Cheongsam For the grandmas who are older, it is not easy to choose a suitable cheongsam. The following are some tips…

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…

On the fashion stage, age has never been a factor that limits beauty. For women in their fifties and sixties, how to show a young and energetic image is an important topic. In recent years, the Chinese-style modified cheongsam has become a darling of the fashion industry. It not only has a strong cultural heritage but also allows middle-aged women to show a unique charm. Today, we will take He Saifei's dressing as an example to introduce the selection and matching skills of cheongsam for everyone, helping women in their fifties and sixties get rid of the feeling of auntie and show a different fashion side. First, why is the cheongsam suitable for women in their fifties and sixties? Chinese embroidery, highlighting the cultural heritage. The cheongsam with Chinese style is known for its exquisite embroidery craftsmanship. These embroidery not only reflects the craftsmanship spirit, but also allows the wearer to visually feel the quality of the clothes. A well-made Chinese cheongsam, even if the style is not fancy enough, can also show a sense of high-end with its unique cultural heritage. Long skirt design, covering the disadvantages of the figure. Formal cheongsam is usually in the long skirt style,…

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 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…