GoblinEternal

Trying to produce a Song or Ming Dynasty historical romance AND make it centred on women’s power is a tough road. The Autumn Ballad (2022) with Qiao Xin and Jeremy Xu is an example of good intentions restrained - the delivery, lines and solutions are 21st century but don’t match the costumes nor era. What Against the Current gets so well is historical context and cultural mores. The FL knows what is possible and uses what little power she has to survive. It resonates with viewers emotionally. We understand why she does it. We are emersed in the world built for us. But we know it is not us moderns cosplaying in hanfu. This is a genuine historical drama. A great, great one!