If you appreciate the arts of China, it's a watch
This is a drama wrapped around producing a documentary about many of China's amazing culture of arts-embroidery, weaving, ceramics, laquer, opera, costumes, etc. so as not to be just a standard documentary series (of which those parts are actually rather boring--but it could be because the English subtitles were not great). It features a quirky girl who is said to have a disorder that makes her anti-social, yet she is so observant of others that she can constantly come up with creative ways to find a human story behind the artistry vs. just relating facts and features.I had fun watching it to see guest stars (several current idol and well known actors) in episodes portraying those stories.
It in line with other "Celebrate China" (propaganda?) shows like Our Times (watch the episode called Night At A Tang Dynasty Banquet focused on a dance) so I bet that is why the stars chose to be in this project. So if you are interested in the arts, it's a watch.
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Part Drama, Part Documentary
This drama was a relaxing and refreshing watch. I would call it a hidden gem. It's an experimental drama in the form of part drama and part documentary. Due to the documentary factor, it might not be for everyone. However, I would highly recommend it to art history nerds, documentary fans, and people who appreciate art (both tangible and non tangible forms). Sorry, romance fans. This is not a romance. However, there are a few people in love and they hint at a few ships. The female lead is adorably evil. It makes for some great comedy and entertainment. I loved the rivalry between FL and the competition. The guest cameos were stellar. And last but not least, the art is beautiful.Was this review helpful to you?
SO CUTEEEEE
IM GONNA HAVE TO REWATCH WHEN IT FINISHES!!! I LOVE IT SM ALREADY ??❤️❤️I really love the actresses acting on this series, I have been supporting them since Couple of Mirrors ☺️ I also like the storyline because it’s enemies to bestfriends (lovers ?) and it sounds interesting!!! I also cannot wait for The couple of mirrors s2 if there is one hehe. Idk what else to write in this review cause it needs 500 words so I will just say good job to the production team for casting such amazing actors/actresses, I’m sure their acting is gonna be amazing and thank you in advance to the script writers, director, sound management, makeup artists, wardrobe management, lighting, and everything that made this series into life. Thank you all so much.
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A Docu-Drama? Recommend for those interested in Chinese arts/crafts/culture
“Hi Producer” is a very unique drama. It’s more of a documentary showcasing China’s rich culture and arts, than a regular drama. It tries to promote and educate via the production of a TV show and a very interesting female lead, Yu Zai Zao. Due to her disability, YZZ is unable to understand certain emotions. However, it doesn’t prevent her from coming up with creative ideas for this TV show. By working closely with the team and building a bond with everyone, she has slowly changed to be a different and better person.If you are interested in learning about China’s thousands of years of culture, this is definitely a show for you. It showcases more than just arts and crafts. It also tries to spotlight the loneliness, challenges, and passing on the traditions to successors - willing, unwilling and overlooked successors. At times, the information comes to me like big ocean waves that it took me a while to digest what I just heard. There’s a LOT of history talk. I also really like the sentimental storytelling of the people behind such beautiful craft. The drama also pays respects to the real experts of each field by inviting them to share their real life experience during the epilogue of each episode.
Despite liking all the characters in the drama, the plot is somewhat thin. I feel that the drama is too long at 35 episodes, and with each introduction of a tradition (about 2 episodes per tradition), the stories become repetitive. I lost focus in the middle of the drama and thought about giving up. I wish it had cut down 5 or so episodes, and spent a little more time on the depth of each character of the TV show. The female lead is one of the most interesting characters. She’s adorable but also straightforward and rude. She’s fun but manipulative. When you start to pity her, she turns around and fools you with her intelligence. If you are looking for romance, then you will be disappointed. There are feelings, but no romantic stories between characters.
I would only recommend this drama if you are looking for a docu-drama and really are interested in learning about Chinese culture. If you are looking for a regular drama with an exciting or unique plot, or a romance story, then this might not be for you.
Other Random Observations:
1. I love the “I Won” doll and gift. Hilarious!
2. Something seems to be off with the styling of Zhang Bo (Professor Tao Tang). He’s only a few years older than Zheng Kai (CEO Gu) but looks so much older.
3. My first time watching Zhang Nan and she impressed me. Her portrayal of Yu Zai Zao is so funny and on point.
4. Not too many songs in the OST, but I enjoy the opening and ending theme songs. They fit the general feel of the drama.
5. It’s amazing how many actors/actresses the drama invites for special appearances.
6. I was mesmerized by all the dances in this drama. That actress is such an amazing dancer.
Completed: 10/21/2023 - Review #368
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