Chinese TV Series “Flowers” Sparks Tourism Boom in Shanghai and Political Controversy
The Chinese TV series “Flowers” has taken the country by storm, sparking a tourism boom in Shanghai and igniting political controversy. The series is set against the backdrop of the Shanghai business war in the 1990s, during the early days of China’s reform and opening up, and tells the story of the protagonist’s rise from abject poverty to wealth.
The drama, which was released on the official media at the end of last year, has not only received rave reviews but has also created tourism opportunities in Shanghai, leading state media to call for “stabilizing the growth brought by film and television dramas.”
The success of the series has been attributed to its touching plot, stunning visuals, and depiction of old Shanghai, which has resonated with both officials and citizens amid the current economic challenges. However, some analysts argue that the series has avoided sensitive political red lines and therefore does not reflect the real Shanghai and China at that time.
The business opportunities driven by “Flowers” continue to explode, with hotels, traditional snacks, and tourism products experiencing a surge in demand. Additionally, the series has caused a stir in political and economic circles, drawing attention to the discrepancies between the portrayal of the stock market in the 1990s and the current reality of the Chinese economy.
While the series has been praised for complying with President Xi Jinping’s call to “tell Chinese stories well,” some critics argue that it has avoided discussing sensitive historical events and political reforms. Additionally, the series has been accused of presenting a rosy picture of China’s economic and political landscape at the time, overlooking the challenges and political tensions of the era.
Despite the controversy, “Flowers” has sparked important discussions about the portrayal of historical events in entertainment media and the implications for Chinese society. As the series continues to captivate audiences, it remains to be seen how it will shape public discourse and understanding of China’s past and present.