Chasing Dramas

In the penultimate episode (ep 47) of the Longest Day in Chang'An, the characters uncover one final spy hidden amongst them at Jing An Si. The Emperor is bewildered to see Xu Bin as the one to greet him after his harrowing escape. Despite his best efforts, Xu Bin is dismayed to see that the Emperor refuses to acknowledge his abilities. Xu Bin resolves to show just what he is capable of. Listen our latest podcast episode as many more secrets are revealed!

The variety/reality Chinese singing competition Singer 2024 created quite some buzz in its latest season following the knockout performances by a few competitors in this live recording of the show that has left Chinese audiences eager to see who can compete against these strong contestants. Listen to hear what's been creating the buzz in May.

Xiao Gui and Zhang Xiao Jing hide alongside the Emperor and Tan Qi in a tavern. A barber and his young daughter seek refuge in the tavern only to find that they stepped into a lion's den. Xiao Gui wants the Emperor to be killed publicly but is surprised when the Emperor kneels and requests that Xiao Gui lets innocent civilians go. Seeing that innocent lives are in danger and that perhaps the Emperor is not as bad as he seems, Xiao Gui decides to step forward to save the day.

Phoenix Legend or 凤凰传奇, a music duo, have been known to Chinese audiences for 2 decades but their recent concert tour in China have been highly entertaining. Concert goers have become very intense and are competing to make sure they represent their concerts well with knowledge of Phoenix Legend lyrics. We share music from the duo and fun tidbits that have been shared online from these concerts.

The BIGGEST drama of the year to air, in our opinion, is the HIGHLY anticipated season 2 of Joy of Life or Qing Yu Nian. It is slated to air on May 16 with most of the cast returning from season 1 and a number of new characters joining the cast. Outside of that, In the Name of the Brother featuring Yang Mi has not gone over well with audiences despite her heavy marketing of her improvement in acting. Meanwhile Cathy enjoyed the modern love story of Will Love in Spring. An interesting short series To The Wonder is also piquing our interest.

In episode 44 and part 1 of episode 45, the Emperor finally experiences the reality of Chang An. He cannot believe the poverty, filth, and corruption that is occurs right outside of his palace walls. He is also touched by the kindness shown by regular people expecting nothing in return, but he nevertheless see the reality that the Right Chancellor wants him to see. Meanwhile, Li Bi vows to uncover the mastermind behind the day's events, even if it means the end of his career. Cheng Sen agrees to aid him

Karen and Cathy introduce the other 18 ladies competing in Season 5 of Ride the Wind/Sisters Who Make Waves for 2024.

In episode 43, Xiao Gui successfully kidnaps the Emperor. The remaining factions, especially the Right Chancellor, begin plotting to seize power and begin moving their pawns in the city of Chang An. Only the Crown Prince is genuinely worried about his father's safety. Xiao Gui discovers that deceit from Tan Qi and threatens to kill everyone but is distracted by guards searching the city. The Emperor manages to escape and is now out in the city of Chang An and faces many surprises from his subjects.

Season 5 of Ride the Wind (formerly Sisters Who Make Waves) started airing on April 19. This popular reality tv show airing on Hunan tv/Mango Tv brings together a diverse group of women who compete to create a "girl group" at the end of the competition. We introduce 18 of the 36 contestants in this episode and will follow up with the remainder next episode.

In episode 42, Xiao Gui finally slaughters his way to the Emperor where he confronts the man on whether he remembers the 8th squad. The Emperor stands his ground and almost persuades Xiao Gui to abandon his mission. The Emperor shoots his arrow, but thanks to Zhang Xiao Jing, the explosion does not go off as planned.