Zhang Linghe grew up in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, a major city in China’s economically advanced Yangtze River Delta. From 2016 to 2020, Wuxi’s GDP per capita ranged from ¥165,800 (~$25,900 USD) to ¥180,000 (~$27,800 USD)—over three times the national average. The city thrived on high-tech industry transformation, a booming real estate sector, and strong consumer growth, with expanding retail networks and e-commerce. According to reports, Zhang’s father was a manager in real estate, and his mother reportedly ran a franchise supermarket, contributing to a financially secure upbringing. That stability likely gave Zhang the freedom to shift from electrical engineering to acting—a rare move in China, where career changes often face economic and cultural obstacles. Most people—whether in China, the U.S., or elsewhere—get stuck in a rut unless they take bold risks. But good for him! to get to do what he loves! instead of boring job!
I just happened to come across this drama and since it is about Ming dynasty, I was curious and watched a couple of episodes in the middle of the drama and found the acting is excellent, it draws you in, but I'm not watching the whole thing, but I don't mind watching scenes here and there. I admire the acting and cinematography. If I'm on a long flight, this would be a great watch to pass the time.
The special episode draws from the novel’s bonus chapters, and the drama stays true to the original storyline. It's deeply moving because their love story comes full circle—complete, inevitable, and beautifully whole. It encapsulates everything about Han Ting’s view of love. The ending only reveals itself when you understand what truly lies at its heart. And even after you’ve watched it and know how it ends, the story only deepens with each rewatch.
The way Xu Kai acted the scene—Han Ting’s quiet demeanor—I felt the weight of it more than the translation. Han Ting: "Love, as far as I see, is gradually accumulated day by day. It grows slowly. To me, it's not a rapid move, but a slow process. I guess I can't completely define it before I look back at the end of my life."
What makes Han Ting a rare character is that he does not separate logic from feeling. He is an extremely complex character to portray, which is why Xu Kai had to make him more relatable.
Did you watch The Double?Haven't personally seen it but see over 20,000 voted it high
I was only checking it out because of Wu Jinyan but from the moment it starts, it hooks you right away and becomes addictive. I hope he can bring that same intensity to this drama. And since there's not a credited screenwriter, maybe that allowed him even more freedom.
It's a really good sign for director Lu Hao Jiji. Ever since The Double, he has back-to-back projects non-stop, all costume dramas, interesting stories, full of tension. He's in post-production on one, and at same time filming another one, and already landed the next one.
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Aug 6 is only 11 days away, they don't announce it?
The way Xu Kai acted the scene—Han Ting’s quiet demeanor—I felt the weight of it more than the translation. Han Ting: "Love, as far as I see, is gradually accumulated day by day. It grows slowly. To me, it's not a rapid move, but a slow process. I guess I can't completely define it before I look back at the end of my life."
What makes Han Ting a rare character is that he does not separate logic from feeling. He is an extremely complex character to portray, which is why Xu Kai had to make him more relatable.