Xiao Zhan describes his character in 'The Legend of Zang Hai' as complex

The Legend of Zang Hai is sweeping ranking charts in China. 

The C-drama tells the story of the son of the Imperial Astronomer of the Da Yong Empire, who experienced the catastrophe of his entire family's annihilation. Ten years later, he returns to the capital under the alias Zang Hai. Relying on his geomancy skills and strategic expertise he honed over the years, he outwits treacherous villains, uncovers conspiracies, and joins forces with beloved friends to protect the nation.

The Legend of Zang Hai surpassed 10,000 in popularity heat index on Youku just 38 hours after its premiere, becoming the fastest drama to reach this milestone on the platform since 2024. It can also be spotted on Disney+'s Top 10 lists in Hong Kong and Taiwan. 

In light of the show's popularity, Xinhua News Agency conducted an interview with the lead actor Xiao Zhan.

How would you describe The Legend of Zang Hai in one sentence?

Thrilling and exciting — every element you can imagine. 

If you were to give Zang Hai a personality label or character archetype, how would you describe someone with a personality like his? 

Zang Hai's personality is definitely not one-dimensional. He's a very complex character. He has a firm resolve for revenge, but at the same time, he also embodies the softest, most compassionate aspects of human nature.

How would you describe Zang Hai's life?

Actually, our drama only presents a brief span of just over ten years of his life. I would say his whole life is quite legendary. In just over ten years, he experienced so many hardships and built such complex relationships. I find it very remarkable! I've always been quite amazed at how he navigates through all of that.

Speaking about The Legend of Zang Hai, what unique aspects do you think its aesthetics have?

Our drama's lighting setup, camera work, and even the costumes and props are all exceptionally exquisite. It really is a feast for the eyes.

When we were doing the character styling, I saw an entire wall covered with design drafts. There were probably around a hundred of them. I heard that the costume designer prepared a lot of styles. There were probably several hundred costumes in total for all the actors, and every single one was crafted with great care. 

Even the size and height of the auspicious clouds on the court robes were discussed at length. I believe that an excellent production can never be separated from attention to detail in every aspect.

To portray a character, you need to deeply experience life. How did you connect with this character?

Since this is my first historical drama using live-recorded dialogue, I placed special emphasis on the lines. I even hired a dialogue coach. I remember, every day after returning to the hotel, I would focus on studying and working on my lines. 

The ancient way of distributing emphasis, and how the people of that time used to convey the meaning behind what they said in a subtle manner, without laying out their emotions, that the listener could also understand — all of that required a lot of preparation.

Are there any roles you'd like to challenge yourself with in the future?

I haven't done suspense or detective roles yet. If I get a chance, I'd like to try it. I actually quite like this genre.

What are your plans for the future?

I plan to focus on acting. I hope to convey more positive energy to everyone through various roles and productions. That's something I've always wanted to do.

You once mentioned that success [for you] is when the audience forgets roles you've played in the past [they don't associate the actor with his previous characters]. Do you think you've reached that standard now?

I'm really looking forward to seeing how everyone will perceive the character Zang Hai. I feel that Zang Hai is different from the roles I've portrayed in the past.

The Legend of Zang Hai is streaming on YOUKU. 

Source: China Youth Network, Baidu