Winter Begonia
| Company type | Television drama series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Entertainment |
| Founded | 2020 |
| Headquarters | China |
| Products | Television series |
Winter Begonia () is a Chinese television drama from 2020 featuring Huang Xiaoming, Yin Zheng, and Charmaine Sheh. Adapted from Shui Ru Tian Er's BL web novel bearing the same title, the series was exclusively broadcast on iQiyi. It narrates the connection between a savvy entrepreneur and a gifted Peking opera artist set against the backdrop of pre-World War II China. Unlike the novel's romantic portrayal, the TV adaptation frames their relationship as a "bromance".
Praised for its compelling storyline, stunning cinematography, and celebration of traditional Chinese heritage—particularly Peking opera—the show also inspired iQiyi to produce a companion talk program titled Wang Peiyu Peking Opera Show. This series features renowned performer Wang Peiyu who explores the operatic pieces and cultural elements showcased in Winter Begonia.
The drama premiered on August 7 on Beijing TV, airing at 19:30 CST.
Synopsis
Set in 1930s Beijing, Shang Xirui (Yin Zheng) is a distinguished Peking opera dan artist admired for his skill and dedication. After being saved from a disruptive crowd by Cheng Fengtai (Huang Xiaoming), a businessman intrigued by Peking opera, the two develop a strong friendship. Together they confront various obstacles, including resistance from Fengtai's wife (Charmaine Sheh), while endeavoring to safeguard their art form amid the impending Japanese invasion.
Main
- Huang Xiaoming as Cheng Fengtai, entrepreneur
- Yin Zheng as Shang Xirui, opera artist
- Charmaine Sheh as Fan Xianger, Fengtai's spouse
Supporting
- Tan Jianci as Chen Renxiang
- Merxat as Fan Lian
- Tang Zengcao as Cao Guixiu
- Liu Min as Cheng Meixin
- Huang Shengyi as Gu Dali
- Li Zefeng as Du Qi
- Chin Shih-chieh as Jiang Rongshou
- Du Chun as Yuan Xiaodi
- Bai Bing as Jiang Mengping
- Li Chunai as Xiao Lai
- Wang Xichao as Jiang Dengbao
- Ma Su as Yue Liang
- Anna Fang as Shi Jiu
- Tang Jingmei as Ceng Aiyu
- Zhang Yixi as Cha Chaer
- Huang Xingyou as Zhou Xiangyun
- Cheng Feng as Xue Qianshan
- Chi Shuai as Chang Zhixin
- Wang Maolei as Shang Juzhen
- Li Yixiao as Cheng Mu
- Hei Zi as Cao Siling
- Michelle Yim as Lao Fujin
- Gao Yu'er as Yu Qing
- Hou Yansong as Liu Hanyu
- Zhang Gongshi as Wang Qi
- Lei Han as Ning Jiulang
- Wen Haibo as Chairman Zheng
- Liu Boxiao as Lao Ge
- Sun Di as Si Xi'er
- Zhang Tianyun as Chun Xing
- Shen Baoping as Hou Yukui
Filming
Initially planned for 55 episodes, the series was shortened to 49 episodes by June 2018. Principal photography commenced on December 13, 2018, at Hengdian World Studios, wrapping up on April 29, 2019. Post-production work followed immediately thereafter.
Peking opera depictions
To ensure an authentic depiction of Peking opera, the production team collaborated with seasoned experts who provided actor training and enlisted Bi Guyun, a venerable Peking Opera artist aged 90, to serve as the drama consultant. The principal actor, Yin Zheng, completed an intensive month-long training regimen. Additionally, specialists in various opera forms such as Hui opera were involved, and two Kunqu opera directors were appointed to supervise the numerous Kunqu scenes.
Sets and costumes
The production meticulously reconstructed iconic theaters including Beijing-Guangzhou Hall and Hu Guang Hall, alongside constructing Cheng Fu Pavilion and Shui Yun Tower, collectively spanning approximately 20,000 square meters. Over 200 costumes featured in the series, with more than half custom-designed by the production’s costume department. Professional opera instructors oversaw Peking opera makeup and hairstyling. Artistic direction was led by Luan Hexin, while clothing design responsibilities were handled by Song Xiaotao and Li Anqi; makeup artistry was managed by Li Xiaoli.
Original soundtrack
The Winter Begonia Original Soundtrack was launched on March 19, 2020 as an extended play album, presenting Mandopop ballads produced by Dongyang Huanyu Film. This collection includes both the opening theme "Winter Begonia" and the closing theme "This Life," featuring lyrics penned by Yu Zheng.
Reception
Winter Begonia earned favorable feedback from both audiences and critics alike. The initial 12 episodes achieved a Douban rating of 7.3, which increased to 8.1 by the conclusion of the series, based on over 100,000 user ratings. The show gained significant traction on Sina Weibo, where its hashtag accumulated approximately 480 million views.
Beijing Youth Entertainment lauded lead actors Huang Xiaoming and Yin Zheng for their compelling performances and emphasized the drama’s contribution to promoting traditional Chinese culture through visual media. People's Entertainment praised its visual presentation as well as its subtle depiction of female characters and interpersonal dynamics.
Awards and nominations
| Award | Category | Nominee | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26th Shanghai Television Festival | Best Television Series | Winter Begonia | Template:Nom |
| Best Adapted Screenplay | Yu Zhou, Shui Ru Tian'er, Jiu Ren | Template:Nom | |
| Best Cinematography | Wang Chengxin | Template:Nom | |
| Best Art Direction | Luan Hexin | Template:Nom |
External links
- Chinese historical television series
- Chinese romance television series
- 2020 Chinese television series debuts
- 2020 Chinese television series endings
- Television series by Huanyu Film
- Mandarin-language television shows
- Chinese web series
- IQIYI original programming
- Television shows based on Chinese novels
- Fiction about Chinese opera