

Why Are Chinese TV Dramas So Bad?
Apr 20, 2021
AvenueX, an insightful YouTuber known for her extensive knowledge of the Chinese TV landscape, shares her thoughts alongside co-host Ina Yang, a founder of the Chinese-language podcast Loud Murmurs. They dive into how the rise of streaming and censorship has led to subpar storytelling in Chinese dramas. AvenueX discusses the shift in scriptwriting quality, the impact of popular actors, and the peculiar case of novelist Zi Jinchen. They also recommend standout shows like 'The Bad Kids' and 'The Long Night,' while navigating viewer frustrations with lengthy formats.
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AvenueX's Background
- AvenueX started their YouTube channel reviewing Chinese dramas in 2017.
- They have firsthand experience working in Chinese drama and film production in the 2000s.
Platform Monopoly
- The rise of internet platforms has monopolized Chinese drama distribution.
- This shift reduces diversity compared to the previous television station model.
Prioritizing Profits
- Investors prioritize profits over story quality, leading to a decline in scriptwriting.
- The focus shifted to popular actors and IPs to guarantee returns, impacting the industry's standards.