Discover China’s rich narrative traditions and modern creativity through these 2019 dramas, spanning historical epics, suspense thrillers, and heartwarming family sagas.
- The Untamed (陈情令)
Director: Zheng Weiwen, Chen Jialin
Genre: Fantasy/Adventure
Starring: Xiao Zhan, Wang Yibo
A global phenomenon adapted from the Mo Dao Zu Shi novel. This xianxia (immortal heroes) drama blends supernatural battles with a deep exploration of brotherhood and moral ambiguity. Its intricate world-building and emotionally charged plot resonate with fans of Game of Thrones and The Witcher . - The Longest Day in Chang’an (长安十二时辰)
Director: Cao Dun
Genre: Historical Thriller
Starring: Lei Jiayin, Jackson Yee
Dubbed “China’s 24”, this Tang Dynasty mystery unfolds over 24 hours as a detective races to prevent a terrorist attack. Lavish sets and pulse-pounding pacing make it a historical drama benchmark . - Joy of Life (庆余年)
Director: Sun Hao
Genre: Historical/Comedy
Starring: Zhang Ruoyun, Chen Daoming
A time-traveling scholar navigates political intrigue with wit and humor. Its meta-narrative and satirical take on power dynamics earned comparisons to The Princess Bride meets House of Cards. - All Is Well (都挺好)
Director: Jian Chuanhe
Genre: Family Drama
Starring: Yao Chen, Ni Dahong
This raw exploration of a dysfunctional family tackles sexism, elder care, and generational trauma. Its unflinching realism sparked nationwide debates about Chinese family values . - Story of Yanxi Palace: Princess Adventures (金枝玉叶)
Director: Hui Kaidong
Genre: Historical Romance
Spin-off of the 2018 mega-hit, focusing on a Qing Dynasty princess balancing love and political duty. Costume design and palace intrigue rival The Crown in visual splendor. - The Thunder (破冰行动)
Director: Fu Dongyu
Genre: Crime/Thriller
Starring: Huang Jingyu, Wu Gang
Based on a real 2013 drug bust, this gritty series exposes corruption in Guangdong’s narcotics trade. Its documentary-style filming adds visceral realism . - Love and Destiny (宸汐缘)
Director: Lin Yufen
Genre: Fantasy/Romance
Starring: Chang Chen, Ni Ni
A celestial romance between a goddess and a warrior, praised for its mature love story and Avatar-level CGI. A refreshing departure from typical idol dramas. - Go Go Squid! (亲爱的，热爱的)
Director: Li Qingrong
Genre: Romance/Esports
Starring: Yang Zi, Li Xian
A bubbly pop singer falls for an esports team leader. This Gen-Z favorite boosted tourism to its filming locations in Sanya and Shanghai . - The Rise of Phoenixes (天盛长歌)
Director: Shen Yan, Liu Haibo
Genre: Political Drama
Starring: Chen Kun, Ni Ni
A Game of Thrones-style power struggle in a fictional dynasty, celebrated for its literary dialogue and cinematic visuals. Netflix’s first Chinese original series. - I Will Find You a Better Home (我的真朋友)
Director: Zhang Sichun
Genre: Urban Drama
Starring: Angelababy, Deng Lun
Real estate agents navigate Shanghai’s cutthroat property market, revealing societal issues like “tiger moms” and migrant worker struggles. - The Legends (招摇)
Director: Zheng Weiwen
Genre: Fantasy/Action
Starring: Bai Lu, Xu Kai
A demon queen and a righteous swordsman switch roles in this gender-bending tale. Its dark humor and feminist themes broke xianxia stereotypes. - Old Boy: The Way of the Sword (剑王朝)
Director: Ma Huateng
Genre: Wuxia/Revenge
Starring: Li Xian, Li Yitong
A revenge quest set in the Warring States period, featuring meticulously choreographed sword fights that honor Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon traditions . - Serenade of Peaceful Joy (清平乐)
Director: Zhang Kaizhou
Genre: Historical/Biography
A Song Dynasty emperor’s life reimagined with The Crown-like grandeur. Critics praised its scholarly attention to period etiquette and art. - The World Owes Me a First Love (世界欠我一个初恋)
Director: Chen Shi
Genre: Romantic Comedy
A workplace romance between a cynical CEO and his optimistic assistant, offering lighthearted escapism with The Office-style humor. - Love Yourself (只为遇见你)
Director: Zhang Boyu
Genre: Melodrama
A jewelry designer’s journey through betrayal and redemption, set against China’s luxury industry. Comparable to Blood Diamond with a romantic twist. - Stay with Me (陪你到世界之巅)
Director: Sha Weijie
Genre: Esports/Youth
A pro gamer’s comeback story blending Rocky-style perseverance with Tron aesthetics. Popularized esports culture among Chinese Gen-Z viewers. - The Brightest Star in the Sky (夜空中最闪亮的星)
Director: Liu Yizhi
Genre: Music Industry Drama
Starring: Huang Zitao, Wu倩
An idol trainee’s rise to stardom, exposing the dark side of celebrity culture. Its original soundtrack topped Chinese Billboard charts. - When We Were Young (少年派)
Director: Liu Huilin, Li Shaohong
Genre: Coming-of-Age
Four families navigate high school pressures. Its portrayal of China’s gaokao (college entrance exam) system resonated with 100 million viewers . - The Sleuth of Ming Dynasty (成化十四年)
Director: Yang Kwan, Jackie Chen
Genre: Mystery/Historical
A gourmet detective solves crimes in Ming-era Beijing—think Sherlock meets Chef’s Table. Food stylists recreated 200+ historical dishes. - The King’s Avatar (全职高手)
Director: Shi Yiyue
Genre: Animation/Esports
China’s first live-action esports series, following a retired pro player’s comeback. Its VR battle sequences set new benchmarks for Chinese CGI .
Why These Matter:
2019 marked a turning point for Chinese TV, blending traditional wuxia with Gen-Z themes like esports and feminist narratives. Platforms like iQiyi and Netflix have made these accessible globally. For foreign viewers, they offer insights into China’s societal shifts—from family dynamics (All Is Well) to youth aspirations (Go Go Squid!).
Where to Watch:
Most series are available with subtitles on:
- YouTube (iQiyi, Tencent Video channels)
- Viki
- Netflix (The Rise of Phoenixes, The Untamed)
Dive in and experience how Chinese storytelling bridges ancient philosophy and modern identity!