“Flowers” Takes China’s TV Industry by Storm: Experts and Creators Reflect on the Impact and Success
By Qiu Wei, Beijing Evening News
The TV series “Flowers” may have ended, but its resonance and popularity continue to reverberate. Described as focusing on “silence,” this production has generated an immense response. China Television Arts Committee and the China Television Artists Association recently sponsored a seminar in Beijing, allowing the series creators and industry experts to delve into the inspiration and significance of “Flowers” in domestic dramas.
Jin Yucheng, the original author of “Flowers,” expressed his satisfaction with the adaptation, stating that the script’s perspective remains consistent with his own literary concepts. The series has left its mark on multiple platforms, including CCTV 8, CCTV 1, Tencent Video, and soon, Dragon TV and Jiangsu Satellite TV. With an average rating of over 1.785% and high scores on Douban, “Flowers” has quickly become a phenomenon in early 2024.
During the seminar, Jin Yucheng and screenwriter Qin Wen discussed their experiences in exploring the themes of Shanghai and the Shanghai dialect, emphasizing the diversity of serious literary creation. Qin Wen highlighted the massive research involved in the pre-play process and the importance of gradually unveiling the original novel during adaptation. Hu Ge, who played the character Abao, shared a poignant moment from the set, shedding light on director Wong Kar-Wai’s deep connection with the actors and the characters they portrayed.
“Flowers” has been celebrated not only for its captivating plot but also for its portrayal of female characters, forming a significant part of its allure. Key cast members, such as Ma Yili, Tang Yan, and Xin Zhilei, conveyed their gratitude towards Director Wong Kar-Wai for his ability to bring out the best in each actor and for the emotional and mental journey they underwent during the filming process.
Li Jingsheng, vice president of the Federation of Radio and Television Social Organizations, described “Flowers” as a bomb that disrupted the industry’s normalized and mediocre creative status quo. He suggested that the series has brought about a much-needed shock, emphasizing its potential to inspire innovation in both subject matter and artistic techniques.
Zhong Chengxiang, a renowned literary critic, commended the meticulous attention to detail and high-quality aesthetic spirit of “Flowers,” suggesting that the series has ignited a new wave in TV series creation, compelling creators to strive for excellence.
As the legacy of “Flowers” continues to unfold, it remains evident that the series has left an indelible mark on China’s TV industry, inspiring a new era of creativity and artistry.