Over the past three years, a number of Chinese dramas such as The Knockout, The Long Season and Swords into Plowshares have garnered rave reviews. Unlike conventional creations with stereotypical plots, one-dimensional characters and heavily filtered shots, these new realistic dramas focus more on diverse topics, exploring human nature, logical plotting and gritty settings. To share common problems, emotions and concerns with audiences from all walks of life, screenwriters try hard to make enthralling and convincing series while actors demonstrate the complexities of the characters with incisive understanding. Black-and-white portrayals have been phased out, replaced by critical views and inconclusive endings. Meanwhile, this stylized yet understated aesthetic has boosted the popularity of featured shooting locations. Experts believe that Chinese drama producers are no longer satisfied with just offering a comfort watch, but also conveying public sentiment and responding to social demands.
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