Chasing Dramas

It finally snowed in large swaths of Southern China. Many actors and actresses shared posts of the snowy spectacles down in Heng Dian with fans speculating which film crews will take advantage of the natural scenes! However, the biggest news with the snow actually comes from the pandas in Cheng Du! Listen to our latest podcast episode to find out more!

Director He finally makes an appearance and heads to the Right Chancellor's residence along with Li Bi and Tan Qi. There, we see just how powerful the Right Chancellor is as he manipulates He Fu into giving a false confession before committing suicide and then tries to force Li Bi into signing a statement implicating the Crown Prince by threatening Tan Qi's life. Elsewhere, Zhang Xiao Jing searches for more clues with the help of the famed singer, Xu He Zi.

Fresh in the new year, infamous producer and screenwriter Yu Zheng decides to spill some shocking tea about his latest drama Wu Fu Lin Men. This is just one in a slew of petty and passive aggressive posts that he dishes out about the entertainment industry. Listen to our latest podcast episode as we talk about Yu Zheng's history and influence in the Chinese entertainment industry and just what sparked his latest outburst.

In episode 28, Zhang Xiao Jing must return to the underground to find more clues about the hired mercenaries. Ge Lao faces a mutiny from his men but, with the help of Zhang Xiao Jing, dispatches the traitors. Zhang Xiao Jing is rewarded for this loyalty. Meanwhile, He Fu's actions have escalated to the battle between the Right Chancellor and the Crown Prince. The Right Chancellor tries to discover if Director He knew of He Fu's plans. General Guo tries the same.

Welcome to 2024! Karen and Cathy are back to discuss the latest slate of Chinese dramas to kick off the new year. The biggest drama airing is 繁花 Blossoms Shanghai, directed by celebrated director Wang Kar Wai and stars Hu Ge, Ma Yi Li, Tang Yan, and Xing Zhi Lei. Others dramas include Zhang Ruo Yun's The Hope, Zhao Lu Si's The Last Immortal, Liu Hao Cun's Derailment, and Victoria Song's Our Interpreter. Listen to our latest podcast episode to learn more about the dramas that are airing!

Rounding out 2023, Karen and Cathy share their favorite Chinese dramas this year via superlatives. They include drama with the best soundtrack, most uplifting dramas, most thought provoking dramas and more! Let us know your favorite Chinese dramas of the year!

Karen and Cathy discuss the ladies of the Chinese entertainment industry that were the biggest winners, most controversial, up and coming and more!

In episodes 26 + 27, Zhang Xiao Jing flees for his life as the new kill orders from Ji Wen take effect. He is aided by Isse and the Sleuth Hounds but can barely stay ahead.

He Fu has been blinded by Long Bo but still is given the opportunity to "assassinate" the Right Chancellor. He fails and is brought to see him instead.

Li Bi flees from his captivity and has a series of encounters in the underground of Chang'An, which hardens his resolve to fight for the people of Chang'An.

Yao Ru Neng finally steps up to beat the drums of Never Retreat at the watchtowers. Inspired by these drumbeats, Zhang Xiao Jing vows to stay and save Chang'An

Cathy and Karen share their thoughts on Chinese drama actors for 2023 including the biggest winners and losers as well the up and commers, the ones in more precarious positions and those that held steady.

In episodes 24 + 25, Zhang Xiao Jing meets the leader of the mercenaries and surprisingly meets an old friend.