Karen and I watch a lot of Chinese dramas, especially fantasy and costume dramas. Over the past few years, there's been overabundance of several tropes that we quite frankly have taken issues with. There's also many dramas that generally can't execute well. Listen to our latest podcast episode on our thoughts on the issues we have with some of the popular tropes in fantasy and costume dramas.

Several top Chinese actors/actresses had different careers before turning to acting. Many of them were dancers. Tune in to learn who were classically trained as some may surprise you.

In episode 14 of Joy of Life S2, Fan Xian seems to have gained the upper hand against the 2nd Prince. Fan Xian captures one of the 2nd Prince's trusty warriors with the help of a fan favorite. Meanwhile, Fan Si Zhe has safely arrived at the Qi Kingdom and connects with another familiar face. This familiar face boasts that he is now the spymaster of the Qing network in the Qi Kingdom. Is that really the case? Fan Xian makes some moves after a meeting with Censor Lai but does it all go according to plan? Listen to our latest podcast episode to hear on discussion!

Zhao Lu Si and Chen Wei Ting's modern day romance Love Ambition is a massive surprise hit right now. Meanwhile, Cheng Yi's The Journey of Legend underperformed as both the production and Cheng Yi were panned for poor quality. Bai Jing Ting came forward with a sci fi thriller, Mobius in September and Li Qin and Chen Zhe Yuan star in newly airing Fated Hearts.

Fan Xian reconciles with Wan'Er and the two head over to Chen Ping Ping's residence. The extravagance shocks them as they see a difference side of Chen Ping Ping. Meanwhile, the 2nd Prince has a few more tricks up his sleeve as he desperately tries to win against Fan Xian. Listen to our latest podcast episode on the history found in this episode!

In episode 12 of Joy of Life Season 2, Fan Xian finally decides to visit his betrothed Lin Wan'Er. The 2nd Prince has his own motives for meeting Lin Wan'Er and encounters his own betrothed, Ye Ling Er. The four sit down for a meal but are interrupted by another engaged couple, the 1st Prince and the Northern Qi Princess. Tensions are high as Fan Xian confronts the 2nd Prince. Fan Xian must also navigate his relationship with Lin Wan'Er as rumors are rampant between him and Hai Tang Duo Duo. Listen to our latest podcast episode on the history in this episode!

The surprise accidental death of 37 y/o Chinese actor Yu Meng Long shocked everyone for how sudden it was. Sadly, it looks to be drinking related. Other negative news includes Xu Kai now being accused of leading a gambling ring while filming and 2 dramas that were scheduled to film, including one headlining Yu Shu Xin, are now paused indefinitely.

Fan Xian had his first win at the Imperial Court with the help from Chancellor Lin. The 2nd Prince is seething at the new investigations to those loyal to him and vows to bring Fan Xian down. Meanwhile, the Crown Prince is caught in the crossfire and must navigate through his own precarious situation. Listen now to our latest podcast episode on episode 11 of Season 2 of Joy of Life!

Vogue China's 20th Anniversary September Cover featured 11 Chinese actresses with Liu Yi Fei sponsored by Bulgari taking center stage. However, there was plenty of discussion around who was or was not included.

One of the actresses on this cover was Xin Zhi Lei who recently won best actress at the Venice Film Festival. This became a point of national pride and catapulted her to the top of the A list.

In episode 10 of Season 2 of Joy of Life, Fan Xian has his first day at the Imperial Court after receiving summons from the Emperor to respond to the allegations of corruption from the Censorate. Fan Xian has a plan but is surprised to see the cast of characters at court.

Listen to our latest podcast episode to hear more about palace etiquette!