Let's help everyone catch the first episode of a drama. Are the recently aired series worth jumping into? This issue reviews: the Republican drama "Footprints" and the criminal investigation drama "Black and White Bureau."
Footprints
Start date: September 4
Broadcasting platforms: iQiyi, Tencent Video
This multi-generational ensemble drama stars Tong Yao, Cheng Lei, Liu Yijun, Lin Yun, Wang Herun, Yang Jue, and Ning Li. The series revolves around the transformation of an old house in Shanghai's French Concession, following the founding of a maternity hospital in 1936, the wave of factory joint ventures in 1955, and the commercial and residential building venture in 1993, depicting the struggles of three generations of young people.
The first chapter aired this week focuses on the love-hate relationship between underworld lawyer Cheng Ao (played by Cheng Lei) and returning doctor Lin Siyun (played by Lin Yun).
After two summer dramas airing back-to-back, Cheng Lei returns to his third drama, "Footprints," where he transitions from a cold-hearted general to a seemingly ruthless lawyer with a patriotic heart and aspirations. It's undeniable that with his sharp suit and slicked-back hair, Lei has a distinctly Republican-era aristocratic air. Furthermore, Cheng's venomous mouth, punctuated by his unwavering demeanor and eye-rolling, is a true Cheng Lei signature.
Cheng Lei as Cheng Ao
Lin Yun's portrayal of gynecologist Lin Siyun is a breakthrough compared to her previous roles. Having returned home after completing her studies, she faces a host of troubles: an unreliable brother who has mortgaged the ancestral home due to debt; a cowardly and patriarchal mother who sides with her brother; and an arranged marriage fiancé who is a scumbag fish pond manager...
Fortunately, she is decisive, bold and careful, and never panics. When she encounters a pervert who tries to sexually assault her, she can think quickly and stab him to save herself, instead of following the usual routine and waiting for the male protagonist to rescue her.
It is worth mentioning that there are many scenes of women helping each other in the play, such as the one who bought Lin Siyun’s old house, converted it into a gynecological hospital, and hired her as the director. It was Mrs. Shen played by Wang Yuanke.
Lin Yun as Lin Siyun
The rivalry between Cheng Lei and Lin Yun is quite tense. Whether it is the extreme tug-of-war between the two, the assistance to the people in the shanty towns, or the clever response when saving the Communist Party, they can be called "double strong".
The drama is of high quality in terms of camerawork, costumes and props, especially Lin Yun's transformation into "Miracle Yun Yun", each of her dresses makes people want to get the same one.
Although love in the Republic of China was mostly tragic, it is still wonderful to enjoy the sweetness of the moment.
Stills from Footprints
Black and White
Start date: September 5
Broadcast platform: Youku
The criminal investigation crime drama "Black and White Bureau" starring Yang Xuwen and Wang Yanhui is adapted from the novel of the same name, and the original author Zhao Junkai personally adapted the script and directed it.
The play tells the story of two generations of railway police represented by Zhan Peng (played by Yang Xuwen) and Tu Hongjiang (played by Wang Yanhui) who faced complex realities in the process of investigating cases, always upheld justice, and ultimately won respect and growth.
The story begins with a decent pace, though the first two episodes are a bit slow, but the third and fourth episodes pick up the pace. Wang Yanhui plays Tu Da, a seasoned investigator with an unconventional approach to investigation. Meanwhile, new recruit Zhan Peng, a stern and demanding character, inevitably creates friction. The passionate young narcotics chief faces off against a seasoned, middle-aged pickpocket expert, a tug-of-war between the two. As the drug case progresses, the two gradually discover each other's strengths and become a tacit partner.
Yang Xuwen as Zhan Peng
Wang Yanhui as Tu Hongjiang
The combination of veterans leading newcomers has become a staple of many crime dramas in recent years, and "Black and White Bureau" is no exception. Wang Yanhui delivers a steady performance, while Tu Hongjiang's characterization is also well-defined. His underworld approach to handling cases is complemented by a strong sense of brotherhood, making him a character worth relishing. Yang Xuwen's acting is more restrained, with his occasional surprising tactics during interrogations offering a contrast to his stern demeanor.
One is sharp and serious, the other is full of gangster spirit. The dual lines of anti-theft and drug enforcement are parallel, which can create a lot of sparks. However, the plot line at this stage is a little weak. I hope the next development can be more powerful.
