Summer is the most anticipated season for drama enthusiasts, and 2025 is shaping up to be a blockbuster year for historical (guzhuang) TV series. With a mix of sequels, book adaptations, and genre-bending plots, this summer’s lineup promises to keep viewers glued to their screens. Let’s dive into four highly-anticipated titles that are set to dominate the season - each with its own unique flavor, from epic romances to thrilling mysteries. Splendid Bloom (锦绣芳华)  For fans of Flourished Peony (国色芳华), the 2024 hit that left audiences craving more, 2025 brings Splendid Bloom , a much-awaited follow-up featuring the beloved duo Yang Zi (杨紫) and Li Xian (李现). In the previous series, their characters - He Weifang (何惟芳), a shrewd flower merchant, and Jiang Changyang (蒋长扬), a witty noble - teased a slow-burn romance that ended just as it began. This time, the stakes are higher: He Weifang evolves from a clever businesswoman to a visionary entrepreneur, founding "Wuyong Hall" and navigating the cutthroat world of trade and politics. Jiang Changyang steps up as her steadfast partner, joining her in both romantic pursuits and high-stakes power plays. What makes Splendid Bloom stand out? It’s not just the star power of Yang…

In the glittering world of Chinese cinema and television, few stories resonate as deeply as those of Yang Zi (杨紫) and Zhao Liying (赵丽颖). Both actresses have carved their legacies not through overnight fame, but through years of unwavering determination against societal and industry prejudices. Their journeys—marked by humble beginnings, public scrutiny, and triumphant reinventions—mirror each other in uncanny ways. While Yang Zi battled perceptions of her appearance to rise as a "drama queen," Zhao Liying defied stereotypes to become a beacon of strength. This article explores their shared evolution, focusing on their breakthrough roles and the cultural shifts they embody. As we delve into their narratives, we'll see how perseverance and artistic integrity have redefined success in an often unforgiving industry. From Humble Starts to Unstoppable Forces Yang Zi's entry into acting was anything but smooth. As a child star, she faced harsh criticism, including blunt advice from veteran actress Song Dandan (宋丹丹) that nearly derailed her career: "Child, with your looks, it's better not to act." This moment, recounted in industry lore, highlights the crushing weight of beauty standards that young actresses endure. Yet, Yang Zi refused to bow out. She transformed her perceived weakness into fuel, gradually…

The most unexpected magic happens not in fantasy realms, but in animation studios. Yu Ao's (于奥) debut feature, Endless Journey of Love (时间之子) - a visually breathtaking tale of time manipulation and star-crossed love - has quietly become China's most emotionally resonant animated film of 2025, grossing ¥130 million ($18 million) since its release on the Dragon Boat Festival. But what audiences experience as spellbinding cinema began as something far more personal: a journey through grief. "In 2019, Tienan (铁男) and I faced a loss that reshaped our world," Yu reveals during our conversation in Beijing, her hands cradling a cup of jasmine tea. "We didn't set out to make a blockbuster. We needed to find meaning in goodbye." This raw emotional truth became the foundation for the protagonist, Qianxiao (千晓), and the film's central promise: "to guard one day of love for a lifetime." Test screenings revealed unexpected therapeutic power - teenagers clutching weeping parents, estranged siblings reconnecting after decades of silence. Yu's artistic vision was forged in Qingdao's theatrical world, where her father worked. Childhood viewings of classics like Lotus Lantern (宝莲灯) (featuring Chen Peisi's legendary voice work) taught her that "true animation magic lives in emotional authenticity,…

A single dress draped on China’s beloved superstar, Zhao Liying (赵丽颖), ignited not applause, but a digital firestorm so intense it scorched her stylist and set social media ablaze. The offending garment? A voluminous Oscar de la Renta floral gown from the 2025 Spring collection, promptly dubbed the “Bed Sheet Dress” by legions of online critics. This wasn’t just a fashion misstep; it became a potent symbol of the intense scrutiny and complex journey Zhao navigates as she evolves from idol to icon. When Fashion Becomes Fodder for Transformation's Tumult The imagery was harsh: pink florals spilling across a white expanse were likened to a child’s chaotic finger painting on hotel linen. The lack of defined structure, critics jeered, swallowed her petite frame whole, while an unwieldy hem forced an awkward gait amplified by overly large heels. Close-ups mercilessly captured every perceived flaw. Yet, the mockery wasn't merely about aesthetics; it was the deafening culmination of mounting frustration among her fiercely protective fanbase. Zhao’s recent red carpet moments had become a recurring source of dismay - from the awkwardly cropped silhouette at the Singapore Film Festival, derided as unflatteringly "short-legged," to the "borrowed-from-mom" critique of another ensemble. Each "miss" chipped…

In the ever-evolving landscape of Chinese entertainment, few stars have captured the public imagination as vividly as Zhao Lusi (赵露思). As a 95-generation actress, she has risen from humble beginnings to become a cultural phenomenon, but her journey is marked by dazzling highs and profound lows. This article delves into her recent public appearances, the meteoric rise of her career, and the personal challenges that have reshaped her path. Through it all, her beloved dogs, Doe and Dian Dian (点点), have emerged as steadfast companions, symbolizing both her vulnerability and resilience. Here, we explore the multifaceted story of Zhao Lusi, a tale of fame, controversy, and the quest for balance in an unforgiving industry. A Glimpse into Zhao Lusi's Recent Public Appearances Zhao Lusi continues to make waves with her unique blend of glamour and authenticity, as evidenced by her recent high-profile outings. In a standout event in Shanghai, she attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Joya brand at Hong Kong Plaza, turning heads not just with her fashion choices but with an unexpected entourage - her two dogs, Doe and Dian Dian. Dressed in a coordinated "mother-and-child" outfit, Zhao paired a misty blue gown with Doe's frilly skirt ensemble,…

Long before algorithms and virtual production dominated film sets, there existed a breed of storytellers who poured blood, sweat, and an unyielding love for martial arts into every frame. Among them stands Rigo (里戈), a name etched into the annals of kung fu cinema, and Yu Rongguang (于荣光), the actor-director whose voice now bridges past and future. In the heyday of classic kung fu films, Yu Rongguang was more than a performer - he was a custodian of tradition. Working alongside iconic directors and leading studios, he and his peers approached each project with the gravity of preserving a cultural legacy. “We staked our all to craft something unforgettable,” Yu reflects, his words carrying the weight of late-night rehearsals, bruised limbs, and the shared urgency of a generation determined to make kung fu not just a genre, but a global language. These were the days when every kick, every parry, and every emotional beat was honed through sheer physicality. Films like Once Upon a Time in China (黄飞鸿) and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (卧虎藏龙) had already planted kung fu’s flag on the world stage, but it was the unsung labor of artists like Yu - stunt coordinators, fight choreographers, and…

Rain splattered the taxi window as 18-year-old Shuyi (淑怡) stepped onto the curb. Suddenly, a hand grasped hers - the hand of Xia Mingxing (夏鸣星), the fictional boyfriend she’d adored for years in Light and Night (光与夜之恋). "Run with me," he whispered, pulling her through the summer downpour. Her heart raced, though she knew this wasn’t magic: she’d paid ¥800 ($110) for this manufactured moment. Across China, millions of young women are now purchasing intimacy through "cos commissions - where cosplayers become living proxies for digital lovers. How Otome Games Spawned a Generation’s Surrogate Heartbeats Commission agents like Qingjiu (清久) spend weeks preparing for a single booking: mastering a character’s posture, sourcing screen-accurate wigs, rehearsing signature phrases. For ¥1,500 ($206), they deliver scripted romance - holding hands through shopping malls, whispering custom-written confessions, even staging marriage proposals during films. "We’re emotional escrow services," explains agent Xiao T. "Clients deposit feelings they can’t share elsewhere." Education expert Xiong Bingxi (熊丙奇) identifies "compensatory fulfillment" as the core driver. "These lonely, overpressured youth crave idealized relationships without real-world vulnerability," he observes. Data reveals otome gamers exhibit 73% retention rates versus mobile gaming’s 42% average - proof of extraordinary emotional investment. The industry operates on razor-thin emotional margins. Top agents earn ¥30,000 ($4,130)/month managing 20+ clients,…

A whirlwind of vibrant wigs, intricate armor, and unnaturally colored eyes swirls through crowded convention halls. This isn’t Halloween; it’s the daily reality of a global subculture evolving into a colossal economic engine. Forget niche hobbies - cosplay (costume play) is now a $4.8 billion global powerhouse, fueled by 10 million passionate fans spending an average of $480 annually to bring their favorite characters to life. The days of cardboard props and makeshift outfits are fading, replaced by a sophisticated, IP-driven ecosystem mirroring the explosive growth of its anime, gaming, and comic roots. How IP and Passion Forged a Billion-Dollar Cosplay Juggernaut The transformation is staggering. What began in the underground scenes of 1980s Japan has matured into a structured, three-tiered commercial ecosystem: The IP Wellspring: At the source lies a torrent of compelling characters. Global hits like Genshin Impact (原神) and Heaven Official's Blessing (天官赐福), alongside breakout phenomena like Black Myth: Wukong (黑神话：悟空), provide an endless reservoir of visually distinct, emotionally resonant personas. These aren't just drawings or pixels; they're blueprints for a multi-million dollar costume industry. The explosive popularity of characters like Genshin's Zhongli (钟离) or Wukong's titular Monkey King translates directly into soaring demand for meticulously crafted replicas of their attire…

Beijing’s gaming landscape just received a monumental power-up. The announcement of 11 sweeping measures to boost game and esports development isn’t just local news - it’s a strategic salvo reshaping global competition. By streamlining approvals, funding innovation labs, and explicitly backing AI and AIGC integration, China’s capital is positioning itself as the next-gen gaming nexus. This isn’t merely policy; it’s rocket fuel for domestic giants eyeing global domination. Tencent and NetEase? Watch your six. New players now have state-sanctioned runways. Simultaneously, Perfect World answered fan fervor with Jade Dynasty 2’s (诛仙2) August 7th mobile debut. More than nostalgia, this Unreal Engine 4-powered revival showcases China’s technical ambition - touting "full-device ray tracing" and console-grade visuals. It’s a declaration: Chinese studios won’t just compete on volume but visual firepower. Early trailers promise cinematic cutscenes rivaling Genshin Impact（原神）, while reimagined Bai Yiqing storylines suggest deep, meta-narrative risks. Perfect World isn’t playing safe; they’re betting Jade Dynasty can become China’s Elder Scrolls (上古卷轴). While hardcore RPGs push boundaries, LeElement took a sharp left turn. Their new tactical-RPG Back to the Blue Sky (溯回青空) flips the hero script entirely - casting players as the antagonists. This "villain protagonist" angle, layered with base-building and idle…

The digital battlegrounds of Arena of Valor (王者荣耀) underwent a seismic shift on June 19th, 2025. Without prior announcement, Tencent dropped a bombshell collaboration with the legendary anime BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War (BLEACH 境·界千年血战篇), sending shockwaves through both gaming and anime communities. This surprise crossover - leveraging the final arc of the iconic Shinigami saga - introduced four meticulously crafted character skins, merging the spiritual realms of Soul Society with the strategic chaos of the MOBA arena. The Crossover Champions: Anime Icons Reimagined Miyamoto Musashi as Kurosaki Ichigo (Legendary Skin) Draped in Ichigo’s signature black-and-orange Shinigami robes, Musashi wields dual blades mirroring Ichigo’s reforged Zangetsu from the BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War . The synergy is uncanny: Musashi’s swift strikes emulate Ichigo’s Bankai-enhanced speed, while his ultimate ability erupts in a golden “Getsuga Tenshō” crescent , slicing through enemies like Hollows. Subtle nods include the Substitute Shinigami Badge materializing during idle animations and a dramatic recall sequence showing Ichigo leaping from the Soul King’s palace - a direct homage to his anime entrance. The inclusion of Kon (referred to as "Soul-san" by fans) in random movements adds levity to the high-stakes combat. Fei as Kuchiki Byakuya (Legendary Skin) Fei embodies the…

The Crucible of Commitment: Yee's Physical Metamorphosis Jackson Yee doesn't just play roles; he inhabits them through a process bordering on self-erasure. The raw physicality demanded by his characters isn't simulated; it's etched into his being, one bruise, one calorie deficit, one meticulously observed gesture at a time. Remember the reckless intensity of Xiao Bei (小北) in Better Days (少年的你)? That wasn't mere stunt double bravado. It was forged in predawn hours on set, Yee and the fight choreographer drilling takedowns until muscle memory overrode instinct. A single jump from a second-story window wasn't deemed authentic until the seventeenth take, the eighth leaving his knee a canvas of purple - a testament to his relentless pursuit of visceral truth. This dedication transcends genres. For Nice View (奇迹·笨小孩), the unassuming phone repair genius Jing Hao (景浩) required not just technical jargon, but the ingrained muscle precision of a Shenzhen back-alley technician. Yee vanished into the labyrinth of Huaqiangbei (华强北), not as a celebrity observer, but as a shadow, meticulously documenting the angle of a tweezers in calloused fingers, the barely perceptible pause in breath during a micro-solder. It’s this microscopic attention that transforms screen time into believability. The transformation reached its…

As June unfolds, the small screen is gearing up for a vibrant lineup of new dramas. On June 18, 2025, four fresh series officially announced their release dates - one ancient fantasy epic and three modern-themed shows, each boasting unique genres, star-studded casts, and plotlines designed to captivate diverse audiences. Let’s dive into what these titles have in store. 1. Cloud Heaven’s Summit (云天之上) Blends Myth and Rebellion Leading the charge is Cloud Heaven’s Summit, a much-talked-about ancient xianxia (immortal hero) fantasy drama that premiered on Tencent Video starting June 20. Directed by Cui Xiaoxiao (崔肖肖) and written by Chen Yongyi (陈泳夷), the series stars Xu Zhenzhen (徐轸轸) as the dual-identity protagonist Lu Anning/Yan Anning (路安凝／燕安宁) - a goddess bound by celestial fate - and Zhang Jingyun (张景昀 ) as the fearsome Demon Lord Ye Sha/Ling Cang (夜煞/凌沧). The narrative revolves around their fiery rivalry turning into an unlikely alliance. Forced into a cycle of conflict by predestined fates, the pair gradually awaken to their own agency, choosing to defy the heavens rather than submit. With soaring visuals, intricate world-building, and a central theme of resisting destiny, Cloud Heaven’s Summit aims to rekindle fans’ love for xianxia tropes while adding a…

Finally, Tang - style hairstyles are no longer confined to the all - too - familiar big - head look! When we now mention the restoration of Tang - style, we often associate it with the elaborate big - head look and intricate head ornaments. In fact, this exaggerated style was not the only one in the Tang Dynasty. Many daily - life hairstyles are more amiable. For example, in the TV drama Wu You Du (无忧渡), Song Zuer's hairstyles throughout are more minimalist. Let's first note that the Tang Dynasty was a highly inclusive era. It not only had the characteristics of the Central Plains but also incorporated those of the Western Regions. There was the capable and tall style in the early Tang and Wu Zhou periods, the elegant and luxurious style in the prosperous Tang, and the elaborate and high - profile style in the middle and late periods. And according to different scenarios, there were grand makeup and hairstyles for formal occasions, and simple and capable ones for daily life. Although each era has its own characteristics, most daily - life hairstyles in the Tang Dynasty were mainly simple buns. Now, we can see various Tang…

Recently, Chen Duling specially shot a set of costumes in the style of 1980s ancient - costume dramas, which left netizens hardly recognizing her. Some even wonder: Is there really such a significant aesthetic difference between classical makeup and modern makeup? Let's start with the conclusion. The biggest difference between them lies in the 'charm'. Most of the so - called classical makeup adheres to the traditional aesthetic standards for eyebrow and lip shapes, presenting a classical charm. In contrast, modern makeup is mostly the result of integration under the influence of various trends, like the once - popular Korean and European - American styles, with a style leaning towards modern simplicity and fashion. This charm, though abstract, can be expressed in forms. For example, the makeup and styling of the 1987 version of A Dream of Red Mansions are often regarded as a classic because its style shows a harmonious beauty. Here, harmony means that the proportion of a person's eyebrows and eyes complements the makeup, without being obtrusive, and the colors are warm - toned. So, the reason why classical makeup is enduringly attractive is the grasp of this sense of harmony. The most challenging part of classical…

Today is a special sharing session about cheongsam pankou buttons. In the process of making a cheongsam, these buttons are not only the finishing touch but also the starting point, just like the opening of a perfect work. A surprising or unexpected start can always spark more attention and appreciation later. Meanwhile, these buttons, which are linked to the essence of traditional Chinese culture, are an important way for us to rediscover Chinese characteristics. They are small, delicate, and a vivid symbol of the ancient people's aesthetics. In ancient times, our ancestors needed to use ropes or belts to tie knots or fasten buttons to fix the front of their clothes and keep warm during work. This kind of knot can be regarded as the earliest origin of the frog buttons. Later, with the development of dynasties, the knots also changed accordingly. For example, the "ribbon" in the Zhou Dynasty, the "silk ribbon" in the Northern and Southern Dynasties, the "silk knot ribbon" in the prosperous Tang Dynasty, and the "jade ring ribbon" in the Song Dynasty. These are all the step - by - step changes of the knot ribbons evolving into frog buttons. In the Ming and Qing…

Song Brocade. As one of China's traditional silk handicrafts, Song Brocade traces its origins to the Spring and Autumn period, took shape during the Song Dynasty, and flourished in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Alongside Nanjing Yun Brocade, Sichuan Shu Brocade, and Guangxi Zhuang Brocade, it is revered as one of China's Four Great Brocades. Historical records from the 'Song Shi Yu Fu Zhi' note that after the Southern Song court relocated south, the urgent demand for high - quality brocade for calligraphy, painting mounting, and clothing production made Suzhou the primary production hub. Hence, later generations invariably associate brocade with Song. The documentary 'The Splendid Tale' highlights how Suzhou's unique geographical advantages and abundant resources provided superior raw materials, earning Song Brocade the moniker 'Suzhou Song Brocade.' The local folk song 'Wu Ge' captures the regional essence: 'In April, the warmth spreads, and households bustle with silkworm rearing.' The 'Silk Weaving Illustrated' by Southern Song painter Lou Shu offers a glimpse into the entire production process from'silkworm bathing' to'silk weaving.' After its zenith during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties, Song Brocade perfected its technique, featuring warp - faced twill as the base and weft - faced twill for…

Meng Ziyi (孟子义) has rapidly ascended as a standout actress in Chinese historical dramas, blending stunning visuals with nuanced portrayals of resilient women. Whether playing a vengeful rebirth heroine or a diplomatic princess, she injects intelligence and emotional depth into every role. Here's a curated guide to her finest costume dramas—including the highly anticipated 2025 release. Blossom 九重紫 Aired: 2024 Period Background: Ming Dynasty-inspired fictional era Genres: Rebirth drama, Family revenge, Political strategy Main Roles: Meng Ziyi (Dou Zhao), Li Yunrui (Song Mo) Adapted From: Novel by Zhi Zhi Dou Zhao dies betrayed by her husband, only to awaken in her youth with memories intact. Partnering with General Song Mo, who also retains past memories, she races to prevent her mother's poisoning and reclaim stolen family assets. Despite their efforts, fate intervenes—her mother still dies, propelling Dou Zhao into a broader battle against systemic corruption. She navigates patriarchal constraints, outmaneuvers scheming relatives, and builds economic independence through shrewd entrepreneurship. Her alliance with Song Mo evolves from tactical cooperation to a deep bond as they expose political conspiracies threatening the nation. Narrative Precision & Emotional Resonance The story avoids clichéd "revenge fantasy" tropes. Dou Zhao's struggle emphasizes practical agency—using business acumen…

As a popular choice for screen adaptations, the novels of Ma Boyong always garner widespread attention when brought to the screen. The recently aired The Litchi Road is yet another work of Ma Boyong, following the success of The Longest Day in Chang'an, LUOYANG and Under the Microscope, that has been adapted into a TV series. The Litchi Road is produced by China Central Television, China TV Drama Production Center, Penguin Pictures, and Liubai Film & Television. Directed by Cao Dun and Gao Xiang, with Ma Boyong as a story consultant, the series stars Lei Jiayin and Yue Yunpeng. It is a witty drama that blends ancient and modern sensibilities. The story takes place during the Tang Dynasty and follows Li Shande, an inconspicuous low-ranking official in Chang'an, who is framed and reluctantly tasked with the nearly impossible job of transporting fresh lychees from Lingnan to Chang'an. With a tight deadline and limited resources, Li embarks on a journey that spans over a thousand miles to complete the mission. Known for using high-density information to drive the narrative forward, Ma Boyong is also adept at focusing on the fates of small characters. The Litchi Road continues this tradition, earning it…

"Come over next Saturday night," Chef Yang Boying said. "I'll make an old school dish—cordyceps duck. You won't find it in restaurants these days." I arrived right on time. Yang lifted the lid off a steaming pot, releasing the scent of something rich and ancient. Inside was a rustic farm duck, slow-steamed for four hours in a dark, nourishing broth. Sprouting from the skin were black threads that looked like rat tails—twenty pieces of cordyceps, carefully skewered into the flesh. The sight was strange, even a little eerie, but the aroma was unforgettable. Medicine and Food Share the Same Root Cordyceps duck (虫草鸭子), a medicinal classic from 19th-century Sichuan, embodies the Chinese belief that food and medicine share the same root. Once served at Chengdu's Tong Ren Tang—a pharmacy that also sold nourishing dishes—it was never just a meal. Cordyceps, a rare fungus that grows from caterpillars, is prized in traditional Chinese medicine for enhancing energy and immunity. The method used to cook this duck—piercing it and inserting the fungus by hand—was both precise and poetic. Today, few make it this way. The cordyceps are usually tossed into the pot with the duck, no fancy presentation. But Yang prefers the…

The distinction between modern and period idol dramas is particularly stark lately—modern ones depict characters "falling deep in love", while period ones are heavily featuring the "Sea of Hatred, Sky of Love" trope. Take the modern idol drama Be Passionately in Love (陷入我们的热恋), which focuses squarely on passionate romance. It follows a pure love line both on and off-screen—kissing scenes require camera angles! In contrast, the period idol drama Feud (临江仙) features two immortal leads who have already married twice, had a child, and are now going through divorce. Their story follows the path of love turning to intense hatred, a dynamic of mutual affection and mutual destruction. Feud isn't the only recent period idol drama embracing this "Sea of Hatred, Sky of Love" setup. In The Prisoner Of Beautyl (折腰), the male and female leads are heirs to feuding families who form a grudging union. The warlord Wei Shao bends for love, setting aside his hatred. While The Legend of Zang hai (藏海传) might not be a standard period idol drama, its romance subplot is textbook "Sea of Hatred, Sky of Love". Remarkably, the cluelessly cishet director even managed to infuse the dynamic between Zang Hai and Marquis Pingjin…