Meng Ziyi

When Meng Ziyi (孟子义) appeared at a recent Wuling (五菱) car launch, no one expected the event to become a viral moment celebrating authentic beauty in China’s entertainment industry. Without heavy editing or dramatic styling, she captivated the public not just with her looks, but with her poise and confidence. In an industry often dominated by curated images and aggressive marketing, her appearance felt like a quiet revolution—a reminder that true presence comes from within. The Unfiltered Moment On a warm day under bright lights, many attendees might have struggled with discomfort or fading makeup. Yet Meng Ziyi remained composed, seated in the center of the event. Each time the camera turned to her, she responded with a calm smile and effortless grace. She wore a simple, elegant bustier dress that highlighted her natural silhouette without relying on extravagant design. Her ease was palpable, as though she had nothing to prove. What made the moment extraordinary was the absence of retouching. The images circulating online were raw and unedited, showing her skin texture and subtle expressions exactly as they were. In a world where celebrity images are often perfected, this authenticity resonated deeply. People praised not just her beauty, but…

Open any historical drama starring Meng Ziyi (孟子义) from the past few years, and you might experience unsettling a sense of familiarity. Whether she portrays a warrior in Blossom (九重紫), or a princess in the newly announced Tigers Sniff the Rose (尚公主) , her face presents a strikingly identical canvas. The same sharply winged eyeliner, the same meticulously separated lashes, the same pronounced under-eye brightness, the same matte blush placement, and, invariably, the same bold crimson lips. This signature "Meng Ziyi makeup" appears permanently affixed, transcending dynasties and disregarding character backgrounds, leaving audiences bewildered and increasingly critical. It prompts a blunt question: has the entire Hengdian (横店) film studio adopted a single downloadable makeup template? The Carbon-Copy Controversy Public reaction to Meng Ziyi's consistent look ranges from weary sighs to sharp critiques. Many viewers find the unchanging, heavily contoured makeup aging and uninspired, clashing violently with the historical settings. "Does she own only one shade of lipstick?" some ask pointedly online. Others lament that her appearance feels less like authentic period styling and more like a series of personal glamour shots, utterly devoid of the visual cues needed to distinguish different eras or social standings within the narratives. Comparisons inevitably…

The delicate art of adorning hair with flowers, a signature look in Chinese historical dramas, has recently captivated audiences once more. Meng Ziyi's (孟子义) stunning floral hairpiece in promotional images for the newly announced drama Tigers Sniff the Rose (尚公主) sparked widespread admiration and discussion online. This fascination isn't new; period productions consistently feature elaborate floral hairstyles, showcasing diverse interpretations of classical aesthetics. From the lavish Tang dynasty ideals of voluptuous beauty to more contemporary, slender adaptations, these intricate arrangements are more than mere decoration—they are visual narratives of character, era, and artistic vision. The choice of blooms, their placement, the hairstyle's complexity, and crucially, the actor's physical harmony with the style, all converge to create moments of breathtaking screen elegance. This enduring trend highlights the powerful synergy between costume design, historical homage, and the unique charisma of the performer. Modern Interpretations Recent costume dramas offer a vibrant showcase of floral hair accessories. Meng Ziyi's look in Tigers Sniff the Rose , featuring elegant updos perfectly complementing soft pink peonies, marks a significant improvement, ditching distracting bangs seen in her earlier role in Royal Rumours (花琉璃轶闻). In that production, while Su Mengyun's (苏梦芸) fuller figure and crescent-moon adorned updo exuded…

The last two years in the drama market have felt like a desert: too many misses, too few real hits. When it comes to the industry's definition of who can "carry a drama" (扛剧, means recognition from producers and platforms, not just fan hype), producers and platforms are becoming much more cautious. Compared to the so-called "traffic stars" whose pulling power is always in a Schrödinger's cat state—sometimes effective, sometimes an illusion—the top actresses who have built their status step by step through solid works are generally seen as the real deal when it comes to carrying a show. But in just one year, even this assumption has been shaken hard by the turbulence of the market. This rundown isn't about crowning or dismissing anyone—it's about looking closely at how these actresses are holding up in the storm: what they still have in hand, and what is slipping through their fingers. Yang Zi and Zhao Liying: Invincible Status? If we're talking about who still has an "unbroken golden body" (metaphor for a stable, almost invincible status), from the '85 generation to the post-2000s, it really feels like only Yang Zi (杨紫) and Zhao Liying (赵丽颖) remain. Zhao Liying's The Legend…

Recently, the wuxia drama Duel on Mount Hua (华山论剑), co-produced by Tencent Video and Yaoke Media, directed by Xu Bing, Deng Ke, Cao Dun, and Zang Xichuan, officially wrapped up. The cast lineup (listed by story timeline) includes Zhou Yiwei, Gao Weiguang, Chen Duling, Peter Ho, Hankiz Omar, Ming Dao, Meng Ziyi, and He Yu. Last year's Iron Blood and Loyal Heart (铁血丹心) followed the classic spirit of Jin Yong's original, while Duel on Mount Hua takes a bolder approach. Its four story arcs—Eastern Heretic and Western Venom (东邪西毒), Southern Emperor and Northern Beggar (南帝北丐), The Five (五绝争锋), and Nine Yin True Sutra (九阴真经)—reconstruct the characters in surprising ways. Together, these two dramas create a "Jin Yong Wuxia Universe" that both respects tradition and experiments with form, bringing new energy into the genre. In today's market, producing a wuxia drama already requires a dose of passion and chivalry. We spoke with producer Zhang Yingying, who worked on both Iron Blood and Loyal Heart and Duel on Mount Hua, to unpack how this unique Jin Yong world was shaped for modern viewers and why it resonates. The Wuxia Starting Point, and a Fresh Unit-Story Approach From his first novel The Book…

Move over, predictable power suits. A fresh fashion alchemy is redefining sophistication, and actress Meng Ziyi (孟子义) is leading the charge. Her recent street style triumph—pairing a sharp black blazer with casual canvas sneakers—has ignited a style revolution. This unexpected fusion masterfully balances structure and ease, offering a blueprint for achieving high-impact looks that are refreshingly accessible. It proves that office staples can shed their formality, transforming into versatile pieces that radiate modern confidence and youthful charm without sacrificing an ounce of elegance. Forget rigid rules; this is about smart, playful styling that truly resonates. A Classic Black Blazer The brilliance of Meng Ziyi’s look lies in its deliberate contrasts. She chose a classic black blazer but ditched the expected button-down shirt. Instead, a simple tank top became her secret weapon. This choice instantly softened the blazer's severity, introducing a touch of skin and femininity that transformed the ensemble. The clean lines of the blazer provided structure, while the relaxed tank added effortless cool. The real game-changer, however, was the footwear. Swapping traditional leather dress shoes or pumps for classic canvas sneakers was a stroke of genius. This single move injected undeniable youthfulness and street credibility into the look. The…

Two productions drawing from the same legendary wuxia universe couldn’t be more different in execution. While Jiuyin Zhenjing (九阴真经) offers a simplistic, romance-focused tale centered solely on its protagonist, Dongxie Xidu (东邪西毒) crafts a sprawling, gritty tapestry of authentic martial arts, complex characters, and profound themes reflecting a crumbling dynasty. The contrast exposes what truly makes Wuxia resonate: not just power fantasies, but the human struggle within a vast, unforgiving world. Fighting Spirit One relies solely on superficial spectacle. Jiuyin Zhenjing substitutes genuine martial prowess with endless slow motion, frantic camera cuts, and heavy reliance on wind machines and CGI blasts. Fight sequences feel weightless, devoid of distinct styles or credible threat. Mei Chaofeng (梅超风) masters advanced techniques like Bibo Palm implausibly fast, undermining the value of martial arts cultivation. Key figures like Huang Yaoshi (黄药师) appear weakened, acting inconsistently—such as bloodying his hands in a brawl, contradicting his established fastidious nature. The world feels small, limited to a single school, one coveted manual, and basic weapons. Conversely, Dongxie Xidu delivers visceral, varied combat grounded in martial philosophy. Different factions bring unique weapons and styles: the Zijin Tang (紫金堂) sect showcases practitioners like Yu Dian (俞典) wielding intricate bamboo umbrellas…

When sweetheart actress Meng Ziyi transforms into the blind, vengeance-driven Mei Chaofeng (梅超风) in Duel on Mount Hua (华山论剑), audiences witness one of the year's most startling dramatic reinventions. Portraying a legendary antagonist from Jin Yong's Wuxia universe, she injects this iconic figure with raw vulnerability – forcing viewers to confront the tragic humanity beneath the character's notorious cruelty. Her performance in the standalone chapter Nine Yin True Sutra (九阴真经) doesn't just reinterpret a classic villain; it dissects the corrosive power of obsession that ultimately consumes Mei Chaofeng, proving Meng Ziyi’s formidable range extends far beyond her acclaimed role in the hit drama Blossom (九重紫). A Star Reborn Known for radiant charm in romantic series and hilarious antics on variety shows, Meng Ziyi (孟子义) seemed an unlikely choice for the tormented Mei Chaofeng. Yet from her first appearance, cloaked in shadow and radiating simmering rage, she shatters expectations. Her portrayal captures Mei's terrifying physicality – the swift, lethal movements of the Nine Yin Skeleton Claw – while simultaneously revealing the shattered girl beneath. This duality is crucial: Meng Ziyi shows us the disciple once cherished by her master, Huang Yaoshi (黄药师) of Peach Blossom Island, before betrayal twisted her path.…

When scrolling through social media, few stops command attention like Meng Ziyi's (孟子义) photos. Her images don't just capture glances; they launch full-scale aesthetic assaults that leave viewers scrambling for the screenshot button. This multifaceted artist has transformed "beauty" into her personal playground, effortlessly oscillating between runway royalty and everyday enchantress. Crimson-carpet dominance to unfiltered comedic brilliance, Meng Ziyi proves she’s far more than a pretty face – she’s a masterclass in charismatic versatility. Prepare to explore how this style chameleon redefines glamour across every platform she graces. Fashion's Versatile Star On the red carpet, Meng Ziyi operates at peak power. Draped in liquid-gold gowns that seem spun from moonlight, she radiates a "queen energy" so potent it extends her presence beyond physical limits. Every calculated drape of fabric transforms into sculpted artistry, while her gaze holds the unwavering confidence of someone who owns the room. This isn't just dressing up; it's a masterful performance of haute couture authority. Yet strip away the spotlights, and a different magic unfolds. The same woman who commanded gala events now bounces through everyday life as the ultimate sweetheart archetype. Oversized hoodies swallow her frame, double buns crown her head, and oversized milk tea…

In the sweeping Wuxia epic Duel on Mount Hua (华山论剑), legendary martial artists vie for supremacy. Yet, the drama's soul often resides in its captivating female characters, brought to life by six remarkable actresses. Each portrays a woman navigating a treacherous Jianghu (江湖) with distinct grace, strength, and tragedy. Their stories intertwine with the fates of the Five Greats, adding profound layers of emotion, resilience, and unforgettable beauty to the high-stakes world of honor and betrayal. 1. Chen Duling (陈都灵) Chen Duling embodies Feng Heng (冯衡), daughter of a salt official. Her life shatters when bandits murder her father, forcing her into a desperate flight. Surviving two perilous cliff falls, she encounters the reclusive Huang Yaoshi (黄药师). Feng Heng possesses no martial prowess, yet her spirit is indomitable. Confined mostly to a sickbed later in the story, Chen masterfully conveys an inner steel beneath a fragile exterior – a resilience that makes the origins of a daughter like Huang Rong (黄蓉) entirely believable. Her quiet intelligence and unwavering courage resonate deeply. Feng Heng's journey is one of profound loss and unexpected survival. Thrust into the brutal realities of the Jianghu after her father's murder, her strength lies not in physical…

The return of Jin Yong's martial arts epics to television in 2025 was met with immense anticipation. Duel on Mount Hua (华山论剑), a series structured in four distinct units – promised a fresh exploration of the beloved Wuxia universe. Initial reactions, however, revealed a stark divide among viewers. The series became a talking point not just for its grand production, but for the contrasting quality between its opening chapter and the powerful resonance of its second act. It presented a complex picture of ambition, adaptation choices, and ultimately, the enduring power of Jin Yong's characters when given nuanced space to breathe. Jiuyin Zhenjing Focusing on Mei Chaofeng (梅超风) and her origins, the Nine Yin True Sutra (九阴真经) unit aimed to flesh out backstories only hinted at in Jin Yong's original The Legend of the Condor Heroes (射雕英雄传) or its classic 1983 adaptation. Mei Chaofeng, originally named Mei Ruohua (梅若华), is depicted from her tragic childhood, orphaned and mistreated, to her rescue by the formidable Huang Yaoshi (黄药师) and life on Peach Blossom Island. The intention to expand on her motivations, her complex bond with fellow disciple Chen Xuanfeng, and the dynamics leading to their betrayal was clear. Yet, this expansion…

Move over, sugary romances and time-travel tropes. China's 2025 historical drama landscape is shifting toward intricate plots and compelling characters. Enter Baihua Sha (百花杀), a Tencent Video and Yaok Entertainment production generating significant buzz. Starring the magnetic Meng Ziyi (孟子义), this series blends political intrigue, suspense, and romance into a rare concoction. At a time when blockbuster historical fantasies feel formulaic, Baihua Sha isn't just taking a different path – it aims to lead the way. The Scent of Intrigue What does the "kill" in its Chinese title truly mean? Is it poisoned petals? Fatal attraction? The cold calculus of court politics? Baihua Sha sets itself apart by rejecting simplistic love stories. Instead, it weaves suspense, power struggles, and complex relationships into a meticulously crafted narrative. Princess Shen Xihe (沈汐和) isn't merely royalty; she's a master perfumer. Her dual identity isn't just prestigious – it's the key to the plot. Fragrances become weapons, masking deadly intentions within floral notes. The series draws from a popular source novel boasting over 38,000 reads and a 78.2% recommendation rate on WeChat Read, primarily among women aged 18-35. This indicates a built-in, highly engaged audience perfectly aligned with platform algorithms favoring strong interaction and…

The historical drama The Princess's Gambit (桃花映江山), starring Liu Xueyi (刘学义) and Meng Ziyi (孟子义), premiered to high expectations but quickly saw a drop in viewership. Audiences and critics pointed to various reasons, from off-screen chemistry issues to an outdated storyline. This article explores why it couldn't match the success of shows like A Dream within a Dream (书卷一梦), examining the role of promotional dynamics, plot fatigue, and competitive pressures. By dissecting these elements, we uncover broader trends in viewer preferences during the 2025 drama season. The Off-Screen Dynamic Criticism often centered on the perceived lack of chemistry between Liu Xueyi and Meng Ziyi. Many viewers blamed this for the drama's declining ratings, arguing that their off-screen interactions felt forced during promotions. Unlike Meng's previous hit Blossom (九重紫), where her playful rapport with the co-star boosted buzz, her reserved demeanor with Liu fueled fan theories of discord. This overshadowed their on-screen performances, leading to unfair accusations against Liu's acting skills. The contrast was stark in promotional events. Blossom thrived on lively interviews and social media banter, creating viral moments that drew in casual viewers. In The Princess's Gambit, however, the actors' minimal off-stage closeness made fans question their believability as…

Within the intricate web of Great Qi's courtly politics, The Princess's Gambit (桃花映江山) weaves a tale of survival, cunning, and quiet defiance. At its heart stands Jiang Taohua (姜桃花), a princess thrust into a perilous foreign land, navigating treacherous alliances and familial expectations far heavier than her bridal headdress. Her journey, intersecting with the ambitions of Prime Minister Shen Zaiye (沈在野) and the crumbling power of the doomed Crown Prince, reveals the suffocating grip of aristocratic power and the fierce will required to carve a sliver of autonomy. This is not merely a story of romance or revenge, but a testament to resilience amidst forces determined to shape or break her. The Dance of Power and Purpose Jiang Taohua's arrival at the Shen residence marks not a sanctuary, but the first step onto a complex chessboard. Immediately entangled in the covert war between Shen Zaiye and the Crown Prince, she finds herself pulled by conflicting obligations. Tasked by the covert Lanyi Pavilion (斓衣阁) to locate the elusive Sunlit Peaks Scroll (日照千峰图), she discovers the very same artifact is central to Shen Zaiye’s mission for the King of Qi: investigating the source of debased coinage destabilizing the realm. This convergence of…

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…

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…

The Princess's Gambit (桃花映江山) captivated audiences with exquisite visuals and strong lead chemistry but ultimately disappointed with fragmented plot developments and an unsatisfying ending. This article examines its strengths, narrative flaws, and Liu Xueyi’s (刘学义) struggle to find consistent dramatic success. A Visually Arresting Start The Princess's Gambit launched with significant promise, largely driven by Liu Xueyi and Meng Ziyi’s (孟子义) remarkable screen presence. Both actors, celebrated for their recent popular projects, brought undeniable charisma to their roles. Meng Ziyi’s rise from supporting parts to leading lady generated organic interest, while Liu Xueyi’s commanding portrayal of the guarded strategist Shen Zaiye (沈在野) anchored the early episodes. The drama’s production design deserved praise, with meticulous costumes and sets establishing a tangible historical atmosphere. Scenes between the leads crackled with tension, blending intellectual sparring and reluctant attraction. Shen Zaiye’s suspicion of Jiang Taohua (姜桃花) as a potential spy created compelling friction, while her resourcefulness in life-threatening situations showcased her resilience. This dynamic laid a solid foundation for their evolving relationship. Audiences responded enthusiastically to the initial episodes, drawn by the sophisticated aesthetics and the leads’ magnetic performances. The blend of political intrigue and slow-burn romance offered a refreshing take on the historical…

The Princess's Gambit (桃花映江山), the highly anticipated historical romance drama starring Meng Ziyi (孟子义) and Liu Xueyi (刘学义), ignited screens with a blazing premiere. Its debut shattered records, soaring past 23,000 on popularity indexes, signaling potential dominance in the competitive costume drama landscape. Yet, this initial triumph quickly met a wave of audience skepticism. Online forums filled with debates questioning the central pairing's on-screen chemistry and the narrative's structural integrity. The drama promised intrigue between the neglected Northern Court Princess Jiang Taohua (姜桃花) and the cunning Qi Kingdom Prime Minister Shen Zaiye (沈在野). Their journey—beginning with forced alliance and mutual distrust, evolving through political machinations towards tentative partnership and love—faced immediate scrutiny. While some viewers championed the leads’ performances and embraced the familiar tropes, others pointed to repetitive plot devices and jarring inconsistencies, leaving The Princess's Gambit suspended between acclaim and critique. The Leads' Portrayal Initial reactions focused intensely on the perceived age gap between Liu Xueyi’s Shen Zaiye and Meng Ziyi’s Jiang Taohua, with some unkindly comparing him to her uncle. This surface-level critique overlooks the character’s inherent nature. Shen Zaiye is no youthful idealist; he is a seasoned political operator, burdened by responsibility and navigating treacherous court dynamics.…

Within days of its premiere, The Princesss Gambit (桃花映江山) has ignited fervent discussion, its viewership soaring past 23,000 and climbing rapidly. This adaptation of Bai Lu Cheng Shuang's novel The Peach Blossom Folds the Rivers and Mountains (桃花折江山) thrusts viewers into the treacherous courts of Northern Yan and Da Qi. Princess Jiang Taohua (Meng Ziyi), a disposable pawn sacrificed in a royal power play, finds herself in a forced marriage to the formidable and morally ambiguous Prime Minister, Shen Zaiye (Liu Xueyi). Their union, born from desperation and political maneuvering, sets the stage for a dangerous dance where survival hinges on outwitting enemies, navigating palace conspiracies, and deciphering each other’s motives. Directed by the acclaimed Yi Jun (The Tribute of Youth,The Legend of Fuyao), the series wastes no time plunging audiences into a world of razor-sharp tension, breathtaking visuals, and complex characters whose motives are as layered as the intricate plots they weave. Yi Jun's Signature Precision Director Yi Jun's (易军) masterful control is evident from the opening frames. The premiere episode efficiently establishes the dire stakes: Taohua's desperate escape attempt, her heartbreaking sacrifice to save her brother, and the perilous journey to Da Qi. Yi Jun utilizes stark lighting…

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…

Recently, the new drama styling of Meng Ziyi has sparked quite a controversy. This large neckline design that reveals the collarbone, which we seemed to only see in early costume dramas, is popular again. In fact, this design isn't just in TV dramas but also in ancient - style photo studios everywhere. Some people even deliberately lower the collar to show their collarbones and camisoles. This somewhat revealing image is more like 'border - crossing' rather than creating an ancient - style atmosphere. Does this way of dressing really exist? First, there were indeed wide - necked robe designs in the Qin and Han dynasties, used as outerwear when layering. Later, during the Northern and Southern Dynasties, it was mainly applied to ruqun (a traditional Chinese women's clothing style), a transition from the shallow cross - collar to the front - closing collar similar to that in the Tang Dynasty. However, this way of dressing was revealing but not alluring, having nothing to do with border - crossing. How wide could the necklines be in the Qin and Han dynasties? The side width of the neckline of the straight - skirted robe N10 in the Mashan Chu Tomb was 43…