June 28th marked the global premiere of the anime adaptation, dropping worldwide simultaneously. The Lord of the Mysteries (诡秘之主) series is a Western fantasy IP created by "Cuttlefish That Loves Diving" (爱潜水的乌贼), a Platinum-tier author on China Literature. Shattering web novel records over the past two decades, this global phenomenon has captivated readers worldwide and stands as a landmark achievement in online literature. The IP currently comprises two installments: Lord of the Mysteries and Circle of Inevitability. Set in a world steeped in occult mystique, it blends Victorian-era aesthetics with steampunk flair, crafting a meticulously structured power system, vast continent-spanning geopolitics, and unforgettable characters. Modern-day clerk Zhou Mingrui awakens as Klein Moretti, a university student in this strange new world. To unravel the mystery of his transmigration, he pursues supernatural abilities—plunging from ordinary life into a vortex of fate involving other empowered beings and the very survival of the world. On the surface, it's an age of industry: revolvers, cannons, dreadnoughts, and airships fill the landscape. Yet beneath this rational veneer lurks a realm ruled by arcane forces. Potion-based magic, divination, curses, and sentient artifacts (artifacts with sealed powers) permeate society. Ancient secret societies pull strings from the shadows, while…

Every summer marks a fierce battleground for the Chinese TV industry. And one quiet rule has become increasingly clear in recent years: if you're going to launch a big historical costume drama, summer is your moment. Since the "xianxia/costume drama restriction order" (a policy aimed at limiting the number of historical and fantasy dramas on air introduced in 2019) was put in place, period dramas have noticeably declined on mainstream channels. Among them, love-centric historical shows have seen a particularly bumpy ride. To stay relevant, creators have been experimenting—pushing for quicker pacing, short-form storytelling, and even adding game-like elements. But the results? Mixed, at best. These tweaks might create short-term hype, but they don't offer a long-term solution. Now that long-format dramas are shrinking across the board, the industry's looking for a win—something high-quality and widely appealing enough to restore confidence. And top-tier costume dramas are under even more pressure: they not only have to look good but also find new ways of storytelling, inject real cultural depth, and raise the production bar to win back their audiences. Enter The Glorious Blossoms, which aired in late June, produced by Huace Media. It's the follow-up to the popular series Flourished Peony…

"Against the backdrop of escalating conflicts and wars in our real world, revisiting The Legend of The Legend of Hei 2 hits differently: our world truly needs more of these beautiful yet clear-eyed 'fairy tales'." "Grandma! Grandpa! Your anime just updated!" After a six-year wait, The Legend of The Legend of Hei 2, the series countless "Hei-ologists" have been eagerly anticipating, is finally returning with a brand-new chapter. On July 18th, the animated film The Legend of The Legend of Hei 2 2 graced the big screen once more, six years after the debut of its predecessor. This homegrown animation, which began in 2011, has become an emotional anchor for many viewers over the past decade. The densely packed barrage of "My youth is back!" (爷青回, a nostalgic internet meme) flooding the screen at the start of every episode is a testament to its long journey alongside its audience. For many, The Legend of Hei 2 is more than just a soft, fluffy, and seemingly naive cat demon. He's a vivid character, a child growing gently yet steadily before our eyes. Let's turn our gaze back to 2011. Starting from the original web series, let's revisit and rediscover The Legend…

While the historical romance drama The Princess's Gambit (桃花映江山) was airing, all eyes were once again on its leading lady, Meng Ziyi. Affectionately called "Meng Jie" ( literally "Sister Meng") by her fans, she's become known as a "genuine, outspoken girl" whose refreshingly direct personality has helped her win over audiences. Now, role by role, she's establishing herself as a serious contender among the so-called "95 Flowers"—a term used in China to refer to leading actresses born after 1995. In the series, Meng plays Jiang Taohua, a character designed as "a strategist behind a sweet appearance." This contrast alone brought a sense of novelty to viewers. But it wasn't just the setup—Meng's natural and smooth performance actively disrupted the usual expectations surrounding female leads in costume idol dramas, allowing the audience to see the growth she's achieved on her acting journey. And this growth isn't just about refining how she plays a role—it's also reflected in how she's breaking out of her original fan circle. According to data from Detawen, after The Princess's Gambit premiered, the percentage of Meng Ziyi's viewers in the 31–50 age group rose significantly. That means her influence, once concentrated mainly among younger fans, is steadily…

The short drama boom has sparked a wave of new platforms, birthed standout mini-series brands, and brought many once-hidden creators into the spotlight. But where is this format headed next? What's the secret recipe behind viral hits? And with internet giants entering the arena, how will the short drama landscape shift? As one of the first Chinese companies to tap into the overseas short drama market, Crazy Maple Studio didn't just stumble into global success. As VP Nanya Peng puts it, "We're not newcomers to the international game." Back in 2017, Crazy Maple Studio entered the North American market through interactive storytelling games—specifically visual novel platform Chapters. That gave them years to get a feel for overseas user preferences before they ever shot a single drama. By August 2022, the company had launched ReelShort, a vertical-screen short drama platform built for audiences abroad. It was the first of its kind in North America. But from the beginning, their focus wasn't just on exporting Chinese stories—it was about striking a delicate balance between localization and globalization. And that balance? It's trickier than it sounds. In China, short dramas are all about plot-heavy storytelling and breakneck pacing. That kind of content exploded…

Remember Ne Zha? That monster hit smashed records, raking in a whopping 15.9 billion yuan globally (approx. $2.2 billion USD). It became the highest-grossing animated film ever worldwide, seriously highlighting the massive potential of Chinese animation. Fast forward, and the summer movie season has become the key battleground for animated flicks. Bilibili is stirring things up with The Little Monster of Langlang Mountain, hitting right at the heart of youth culture. Then you've got Light Chaser Animation continuing its streak of giving classic stories a modern twist with Curious Tales of a Temple. And don't forget The Legend of Hei 2 (罗小黑战记2), built from the ground up with global audiences in mind. Why all the buzz? And what do these films tell us about where Chinese animation is headed? What we're seeing is a shift. Chinese animation isn't just leaning on one big name anymore. It's building a much richer, more varied scene. Think back ten years–Chinese cartoons barely made up 15% of summer box office. When Monkey King: Hero is Back exploded onto the scene, it felt like a lone warrior breaking through. Then came Ne Zha, rewriting the rules again during summer with over 5 billion yuan. It…

Let's rewind to 2019. Ling Cage: Incarnation Season 1 dropped as China's first original "post-apocalyptic wasteland" anime. Its bold concept and massive world-building instantly grabbed fans. Fast forward to now—Season 2 just landed, painting a new kind of survival story. And honestly? The quality hasn't missed a beat. Here's the buzz: A live-action Ling Cage series is in the works. Let's be real—Chinese TV's been stuck recycling the same ideas lately. Truly fresh stories? Rare. A hardcore, gritty wasteland tale like this hitting live-action? That's uncharted territory. It's not alone, either. Other unique books and animations are getting adapted too. Could this wave finally refresh things? But here's the real test: Will Ling Cage's story even work on screen? In a ruined future, humanity clings to survival inside a floating fortress called the "Lighthouse," battling the deadly Maya Ecosystem ravaging Earth. Season 1 followed the "Hunters"—teams scavenging the toxic surface for supplies while fighting mutant horrors called Corrupted Creatures. Season 2 shifts gears, introducing Dragon Bone Village: a settlement built by surface survivors. They're still under the Maya Ecosystem's shadow, but compared to the Lighthouse's cold, class-driven tyranny? This place breathes freedom. Ling Cage's magic lies in its world—a fusion…

When seven core creators sat down together for an interview, it was Light Chaser Animation's idea. Six directors helm this anthology film, pushing creative boundaries after their Tang dynasty epic's success. Over the past decade, this studio has evolved from an independent workshop into a leading force in Chinese animation. Unlike many studios, Light Chaser embraces a collaborative approach. Different directors helm their projects, new talent regularly steps into the director's chair, and dedicated story development teams work within an established pipeline. It's filmmaking by committee, in the best sense. Following the massive success of Chang'an, the team faced a crucial decision for their next project. They chose a bold path. Their new film, Curious Tales of a Temple, breaks the mold as an anthology–directed by six different filmmakers. Why not stick with the proven formulas of Chang'an? How could six distinct chapters feel like one cohesive film? How did they achieve stunning visual styles inspired by felt art and Song Dynasty paintings? Driven by these questions, I sat down with the seven creators (six screenwriters and the producer). Our conversation became a chance for them to reflect on their craft. Story Selection & Unity Curious Tales of a Temple…

It was 1:30 in the morning. Slightly tipsy from fatigue, Li Yitong still faced the camera with energy and a smile, wrapping up her final interview of the day — her 18th consecutive working hour during a packed publicity schedule. Even after such a long day, she didn't slack off in front of the camera. She tried her best to bring something new to every single interview, even when the questions were basically the same. She would shift the focus in her answers, trying to offer a different angle each time. On top of that, she instructed her team to buy late-night snacks for all the reporters present — and not just any random food. She only ordered things she had personally tried and liked, then shared them with everyone. To be able to manage things down to such small details, to make sure everyone is looked after, and still give her all — that's Li Yitong. And this, honestly, is just her default mode. Actress Ling Meishi, who is signed under the same agency as Li Yitong, has often been "taken care of behind the scenes"by her. Once, while filming in Hengdian, during a startup banquet for a new…

That breath of fresh air in period dramas? A Dream Within A Dream just wrapped up—and it did something rare: it broke the tired rules while making us laugh and cry. Right out the gate this summer, it grabbed attention as the frontrunner among historical shows. Its trick? A clever "story-within-a-story" setup that pulled viewers behind the curtain of its own creation. Then came the accelerated finale. Every "cardboard character" woke up, shattered their scripted chains, and steered both story layers toward a proper happy ending. That move? Pure genius—sharp, funny, and weirdly touching. Trying to pin this show to one genre is hopeless. If I had to force it: A modern woman crashes into a script, hijacks her fate, and inspires her 2D co-stars to grab free will. An "ambition-only" actress melts her own rules and falls hard. By roasting tired tropes, it stitches together a new vision for costume dramas—breaking the mold to rebuild it. No wonder fans rallied behind it. We've all suffered through enough paint-by-numbers historical romances. Scrolls became our "proxy voice"—even swinging the knife at lazy writing for us. That cathartic chaos? Like hiring a top-tier real paid online arguers when you're outmatched in a…

The currently airing costume drama In the Name of Blossom (锦绣芳华) has once again brought Li Xian back into the mainstream spotlight. With its intricate storyline of power struggles and merchant wars, plus Li's upgraded "Jiang Changyang 2.0" performance—what fans call a "heart-hunting" (meaning he subtly manipulates or reads others emotionally and psychologically) acting masterclass—the series has earned strong visibility in this year's summer lineup. Through a performance that fits the role like a glove, Li Xian successfully carries over the popularity from Season 1, continuing to draw in viewers. Over his years in the industry, Li has become something of a "stabilizing presence" at the frontline of a fast-changing entertainment landscape. He relies on professional conviction to counter the wear-and-tear of mass production, and uses a broad spectrum of roles to reshape what an actor's lifespan can look like. Without rushing or overreaching, he's become a living example of what long-termism in acting really means. Role Interpretation: Jiang Changyang In the Name of Blossom, a sequel that leans into differentiated genre competition, had already surpassed 6.45 million combined pre-release reservations on Mango TV and Weibo, with an additional 1.5 million on Migu Video, setting a new record for the…

In July 2025, Zhao Lusi (赵露思) ignited social media by confronting plastic surgery rumors head-on during a live broadcast. Viral unedited photos had sparked debates comparing her current sharp jawline and sculpted nose to the round-faced "Chen Qianqian" (陈芊芊) from her 2020 breakout drama The Romance of Tiger and Rose (传闻中的陈芊芊). Facing mounting scrutiny, the actress dismissed claims with wit and makeup tutorials, reframing the narrative around artistic growth rather than cosmetic alteration. Her response reveals a star strategically navigating fame in China’s image-obsessed entertainment industry. Defining Transformation The discourse began when side-by-side images from The Romance of Tiger and Rose and recent public appearances flooded Weibo. In 2020, Zhao’s cherubic cheeks and soft features defined her "sweetheart" persona—a label cemented by her character Chen Qianqian’s infectious grin and relatable charm. Fans likened her to "melted cotton candy" for her approachable radiance. By 2023’s historical drama Love Like The Galaxy (星汉灿烂), subtle shifts emerged. Behind-the-scenes stills showed refined contours and elevated nasal bridges, contrasting with earlier roles. Critics dissected screenshots claiming "unnatural stiffness," while plastic surgeons weighed in on forums about possible jawline reduction. Zhao’s team previously attributed changes to weight management and maturing bone structure. Yet the 2025 controversy…

Summer twilight descends upon Xi’an’s ancient city walls as a local ballad drifts through the humid air. Below the ramparts, a vibrant tapestry unfolds: young women in flowing Qixiong Ruqun (齐胸襦裙) skirts glide over cobblestones carrying silk fans, boys in traditional Futou headwear flash peace signs beside sausage vendors, and self-styled "Tang princesses" with tinkling hair ornaments weave through bicycle commuters. This seamless fusion of antiquity and urban life defines China’s ancient capital today. Across its historic quarters, a generation born after 1995 drives a cultural resurgence—transforming Hanfu from ceremonial costume into daily poetry. Threads of Transformation Xi’an’s streets have become runways for resurrected elegance. At the Tang Paradise Mall’s Hanfu Center near the Great Tang All-Day Mall, stylists livestream makeup tutorials, demonstrating how seventh-century "Luozidai" eyebrows complement Tang-style dresses. Behind them, racks display Ming Dynasty Mamian skirts and Tang half-sleeve robes—a sartorial timeline spanning dynasties. By day, tourists pose with circular fans before the Bell Tower’s soaring eaves. Inside the immersive "Chang’an Twelve Hours" theme park, scholars in round-collared gowns stroll alongside veiled maidens. As lanterns illuminate the 2-kilometer promenade at dusk, performers in reconstructed court dresses descend palace staircases, their gold Buyao hairpins catching spotlights. The Bell Tower…

Episode 10 of Singer 2025 delivered a seismic shift in the competition. Broadcast on July 18th, the episode saw record-breaking real-time ratings for Hunan Satellite TV, peaking above 1% as viewers tuned in for a night of exceptional performances. The stakes soared higher with the unexpected near-elimination of a favored contender, setting the stage for a fiercely unpredictable final stretch. Every vocalist delivered career-defining moments, transforming the leaderboard and fueling intense debate about the ultimate winner. Leaderboard Reshuffled Huang Liling (黄丽玲) claimed her first victory with a powerhouse ballad that showcased her signature vocal control and emotional depth. Her rendition captivated both the live audience and viewers, cementing her status as a genuine championship threat. Alicia secured second place with a technically flawless performance blending soul and contemporary pop, demonstrating her international appeal. Her stage presence and vocal precision drew widespread acclaim. Li Jiawei (李佳薇) took third with a dramatic, theatrical interpretation that highlighted her versatility. Her ability to convey complex narratives through song remains unmatched this season. Meanwhile, Single Pure, a previous frontrunner, plummeted to sixth place despite a hauntingly beautiful performance of Stefanie Sun’s "Began to Understand." Her stripped-down arrangement emphasized raw vulnerability, yet failed to resonate with…

In 1625, Shenyang became the capital of the Later Jin dynasty, setting the stage for a pivotal cultural transformation. By 1636, a deliberate sartorial shift – the codification of the iconic qipao robe – became instrumental in forging a new national identity under Hong Taiji (皇太极). This strategic wardrobe revolution, intertwined with imperial marriages and geopolitical maneuvering, cemented Shenyang’s legacy as the cradle of a garment that would later symbolize Chinese elegance worldwide. The story unfolds through political unions, battlefield victories, and a calculated rebranding of an empire. The Fabric of Alliance Hong Taiji’s marriage to Borjigit Hailanzhu (博尔济吉特.海兰珠) in 1634 was far more than a personal union; it was a calculated geopolitical chess move. Upon her arrival in Shenyang’s fledgling imperial court, Hailanzhu exchanged her traditional Mongol deel – a loose, belted robe suited for the steppes – for the structured, collarless, side-fastened qipao mandated by her new husband. This act transcended mere wardrobe change; it was a visible symbol of allegiance and assimilation. Hong Taiji recognized the potent legitimacy carried by the Borjigit lineage, descendants of Genghis Khan’s revered "Golden Family" who ruled vast swathes of Eurasia. Marrying Hailanzhu, and subsequently several other Borjigit women including the famous…

Zhao Lusi (赵露思) unveils a transformative visual identity in her latest magazine feature. The 25-year-old actress trades her signature flowing locks for a sharp chin-length cut, pairing it with a structured black bustier gown that accentuates her silhouette. Shot across varied settings—from minimalist studios to ethereal underwater scenes—these images capture her experimental shift from sweetheart roles to avant-garde fashion statements. Released on July 21, the editorial sparks conversations about reinvention versus authenticity in celebrity image-making. Stylistic Departure Zhao Lusi’s cropped hairstyle marks a decisive break from her familiar long tresses. The blunt cut frames her face with geometric precision, complementing the sculptural neckline of the black bustier dress. Cinched at the waist, the gown channels vintage Hollywood glamour while modern metallic accessories add edge. In one frame , she stands against botanical backdrops, merging organic textures with sleek tailoring. The second look features a white draped gown captured mid-movement underwater. Submerged fabric billows around her, creating ghostly trails of translucent silk. This aquatic theme continues with a close-up shot highlighting submerged facial expressions—eyes closed, features serene yet detached from her usual animated persona. Contrast defines the third ensemble: a form-fitting black sheath emphasizing minimalist lines. Lit dramatically against dark backgrounds,…

Marking two decades of adventure, the beloved Pleasant Goat and Big Big Wolf  franchise releases its milestone 20th-anniversary film, Pleasant Goat and Big Big Wolf - Bright New Dawn (喜羊羊与灰太狼之异国破晓), nationwide on July 26. This highly anticipated summer escapade promises a vibrant blend of nostalgia, thrilling action in the mystical Land of Light, and heartwarming character moments, continuing the legacy for generations of fans. The premiere coincides with the emotive release of the end-credits theme song MV, "By Your Side," setting the stage for a journey filled with courage and enduring friendship. Enduring Bonds Take Center Stage The newly unveiled "By Your Side" MV offers a poignant glimpse into the film's core emotional themes. It showcases stunning visuals contrasting light and shadow within the Land of Light, alongside exhilarating sequences of the goat and wolf heroes fighting together. More significantly, it reveals intimate moments highlighting the deep bonds between characters. Lyrics like "Stumbling along, friends are always there to lean on" resonate powerfully, reflecting the twenty-year camaraderie central to the series. The warm, uplifting melody and heartfelt lyrics underscore the characters' bravery in the face of danger and their unwavering faith in each other and a brighter future. This song…

Meng Ziyi (孟子义), the actress steadily ascending China's entertainment firmament, has ignited fashion discourse with her July 2025 Harper's Bazaar (时尚芭莎) electronic cover. Transcending mere photoshoot, this visual narrative positions Meng as a defining face of resurgent retro glamour. Departing from fleeting trends, she embodies the Y2K aesthetic – think bold colors, unabashed femininity, and a touch of nostalgic rebellion – reimagined for the modern era. This pivotal moment arrives alongside her compelling performance in the historical drama The Princess's Gambit (桃花映江山), solidifying her transition from idol group member to multifaceted artist commanding both screen and style. Her journey, marked by resilience and reinvention, finds potent expression in these captivating images. The Pink Revelation Makeup artist Yang Dan (杨单) orchestrated Meng Ziyi's transformation into a contemporary "Wanrenmi" (The Lovable Ten Thousand Charms). The cornerstone is a striking matte crimson lip, meticulously applied to complement Meng's pronounced facial contours and naturally fair complexion. This deliberate contrast creates a dramatic focal point, echoing the unapologetic beauty ideals of early 2000s Hong Kong cinema icons. The look avoids pastiche through its precise execution and adaptation to Meng's unique features. Voluminous, textured curls frame her face, adding movement and a touch of playful dynamism…

At 25, actress Lu Yuxiao (卢昱晓) has captivated audiences not only with her nuanced portrayal of characters like My Journey to You's (云之羽) Shangguan Qian (上官浅) but also with a wardrobe that defies singular definition. Her sartorial choices—ranging from structured Chinese silhouettes to playful Korean minimalism and British-inspired layering—reflect a rare authenticity in today's trend-saturated fashion landscape. This chameleonic ability to embody diverse aesthetics while maintaining a cohesive "oxygen girl" essence makes her style playbook uniquely instructive. The Modern Chinese Muse Lu’s interpretation of contemporary Chinese design merges historical reverence with modern ease. Her black high-collar top and flowing skirt ensemble embodies understated elegance, hair swept into a low bun amplifying the look’s serene composure. The absence of excessive jewelry focuses attention on clean lines and fabric drape, proving restraint can radiate sophistication. This quiet confidence channels the poise of Jiangnan literati aesthetics—a harmony of human and garment transcending mere trend. In a bold departure, Lu’s crimson knitwear adorned with plum blossoms showcases her mastery of high-impact color. Against her delicate features, the vibrant red doesn’t overwhelm but creates a striking chiaroscuro effect—reminiscent of 1970s Hong Kong cinema starlets. Strategically placed floral motifs and softly backlit hair transform the look…

Under the illuminated eaves of Beijing's Gongwangfu (恭王府) Museum, history met haute couture on July 14th. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism's Gongwangfu Museum unveiled its groundbreaking "Gong·Fashion" brand, presenting 37 concept ensembles and 35 new Chinese-style ready-to-wear pieces alongside accessories. Against the backdrop of the ancient Yin'an Hall, models traversed a modern runway, embodying a unique dialogue between imperial legacy and contemporary design. Key figures including Deputy Director Su Ning (苏宁), acclaimed international designer Laurence Xu, collaborative designer Qi Qi (齐棨), and actress Mao Xiaotong (毛晓彤) witnessed the collection's premiere. This event signifies a strategic pivot for the museum, transforming its cultural treasures into wearable art for global audiences. Designs Rooted in History The "Gong·Fashion" collection draws deeply from Gongwangfu's visual language. Designers meticulously translated specific architectural and natural motifs into intricate textile narratives. Flowing wisteria vines cascading within the palace grounds inspired organic, draped silhouettes. The precise geometric latticework of the Crabapple Blossom Windows found expression in structured patterns and laser-cut details adorning jackets and skirts. Subtle plays of light and shadow, reminiscent of the Bamboo Courtyard, were captured through layered fabrics and gradient dyeing techniques. Perhaps most iconic, the revered "First Blessing Under Heaven" calligraphy was subtly…