As the market for period dramas warms up, an increasing amount of capital is pouring into this genre.

For fans of period dramas, the return to quality is great news. Looking at the lineup of highly anticipated period dramas scheduled for release in 2024-2025, it's clear that the trend towards high-quality productions is on the rise.

From "The Chronicles of Canghai" and "To the Mountains and Seas" to "Great Dream of Departure," "Jade Curtains and Pearls" and "National Beauty and Prosperity," each series has its own unique appeal. From captivating visuals to emotional resonance, from exquisite costumes to compelling narratives, every one of these dramas offers a reason to be excited.

More than Just a Beauty Pageant

Period dramas that rank among the top-tier are not just about beauty pageants. While attractive casts are standard, what truly matters are the intricacies of the plot, character development, and overall production quality.

Take "The Chronicles of Canghai," for instance, which boasts the talent of director Zheng Xiaolong and the popularity of actor Xiao Zhan. But more importantly, the script is reportedly exceptional. Industry insiders who have read the script believe that this drama will mark another peak in Xiao Zhan's career with its strong reputation.

"The Chronicles of Canghai" is a political thriller centered around a powerful male lead. Xiao Zhan portrays Zhi Nu, the son of the Imperial Astronomer of the Great Yong Dynasty, who suffers a family tragedy and seeks revenge. After ten years of hiding and honing his skills, he returns to the capital under the alias of Canghai, using his architectural prowess and political acumen to ascend the ranks of power. Beyond the thrill of revenge, the series also delves into the protagonist's personal growth.

What makes the series stand out is how the protagonist prioritizes the peace and prosperity of the nation over personal gain, helping to end conflict. This adds depth to the story and presents a significant challenge for the actors involved, making it a must-watch.

Characters that Resonate with Fans

The narrative in "To the Mountains and Seas" is straightforward and engaging. The story follows an ordinary man who unexpectedly travels through time into a martial arts world, transforming from a novice to a hero who protects his country and maintains peace.

Cheng Yi, as the leading actor, fits his role perfectly. Based on the promotional materials released so far, his appearance evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of the youthful Li Xiangyi from "Lotus Lantern." This suggests that the production team understands the strengths of their cast.

The series is adapted from Wen Ruian's novel "Shenzhou Heroes," a work with a high level of "martial content." For fans of martial arts, even without considering the actors, the prospect of a well-crafted martial arts drama is enough to satisfy.

Breaking Out of the Comfort Zone

"Great Dream of Departure" stars Hou Minghao, Chen Duling, Tian Jia'rui, and Cheng Xiao in a fantastical period drama. Some netizens hope that the platform can accelerate progress and release the series in October.

The show, set against the backdrop of "The Classic of Mountains and Seas," takes place during the Zhenyuan era when the goddess Bai Ze, who governs both humans and demons, dies mysteriously. The search for the missing "Bai Ze Order" and the ensuing chaos caused by demons become central to the plot.

To solve these mysteries, a special task force called the "Demon Hunters' Bureau" is formed, comprised of characters with diverse abilities. The ensemble of demon hunters, including the demon leader Zhao Yuanzhou, the compassionate goddess Bai Ze, the righteous bureau chief, the skilled detective and swordsman Zhuo Yichen, the cool archer Pei Sijing, and the prodigy doctor Bai Jiu, is said to have a fiery spirit.

With Guo Jingming at the helm, the actors' makeup and costumes are expected to be outstanding. His avant-garde aesthetic often draws viewers to the series. Hou Minghao's demonic aura and Cheng Xiao's transformation into a heroic female warrior are particularly eye-catching, breaking away from typical character tropes.

Fueled by Passion and Craftsmanship

"National Beauty and Prosperity," starring Yang Zi and Li Xian, is a follow-up collaboration between the two leads. Together, they embark on a business venture in the Tang Dynasty, creating a commercial legend. The characters are well-rounded and engaging, with a merchant woman and a royal advisor interacting in a way that captivates the audience.

Beyond providing a setting for fans to enjoy the chemistry between the leads, "National Beauty and Prosperity" delves into the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty. The series showcases meticulous attention to detail in its elaborate sets and exquisite costumes, imbuing Chinese television with confidence.

The production involves four main scenic areas, covering over seven million square feet, with over 1,500 custom-made costumes, a production cycle of more than 340 days, and consultations with over twenty experts in Tang history and peony cultivation. These extensive production details attest to the crew's commitment to quality.

Diverse Styles Expand Period Drama Genres

"Jade Curtains and Pearls," starring Zhao Lusi and Liu Yuning, features lavish Tang Dynasty costumes. The series tells the story of a pearl diver named Duanwu and a special merchant Yan Zijing as they navigate the business world and reach new heights in the art of jewelry.

"Jade Curtains and Pearls" excels in crafting a tightly woven plot with logical consistency and a brisk pace, offering viewers an exciting viewing experience.

In addition, the chemistry between Zhao Lusi and Liu Yuning, along with the elements of business warfare and action, give the series a diverse visual style.

In summary, whether it's the freshness of the stories, the allure of the plots, the depth of the characters, or the meticulous attention to costumes, makeup, and production quality, the period dramas slated for release in 2024-2025 leave ample room for imagination. The investment in this genre indicates that period dramas are experiencing a resurgence.