Advisors Alliance (2017)

Advisors Alliance 军师联盟 is a 2017 Chinese historical drama starring Wu Xiu Bo, Liu Tao (Nirvana in Fire), Janine Zhang (Empress of China), Li Chen, Zhang Zhixi (Three Heroes and Five Gallants), Tang Yixin (Legend of the QIng Qiu Fox) and more. 

The plot revolves around esteemed strategist Si Ma Yi and his time in Wei during the Three Kingdoms. Veteran Wu Xiu Bo double hats as actor and producer and his attachment to the project brings together the star-studded ensemble of acting heavyweights, creating much anticipation from fans.

God of War Zhao Yun's attempt at the Three Kingdoms turned out to be such a letdown, which I hope Advisors Alliance does not repeat. 

As war-ridden and bloody as it may be, Three Kingdoms remains one of the most marvelous clash of wits amongst the brilliant minds in Chinese history and Advisors Alliance certainly looks to deliver a legit depiction of the same, though I have no clue why the characters are in suits, must be a new concept that they're trying out.

For synopsis, cast and ratings, see 2016 c-drama recommendations.

Source: 391k, Ent163

Empress of China

Empress of China 武媚娘传奇 is an 81-episode historical drama about Wu Ze Tian, the only female ever to rule China as an emperor. One line sums up the entire series but Wu Ze Tian's rise to political power in a male-dominated society that even today is still dominated by men is truly one for the ages.

Fan Bing Bing lands the coveted role of Wu Ze Tian, further establishing her status as one of China's top stars. I still remember her humbler beginnings as Zhao Wei's handmaiden in Princess Pearl. Yet no one puts Fan Bing Bing in a corner these days since 2014 was a particularly spectacular year for Fan, even earning a stint in Hollywood as Blink from X-Men Days of Future Past.


Empress of China came and went, breaking records along the way and the theme songs repeated 81 times will likely remain in our cherished memories.
Opening song Wu Zi Bei 无字碑 by Jane Zang 张靓颖
Ending song Qian Qiu 千秋 by Sun Nan 孙楠

Since I'm having a bout of nostalgia, one thing that's worth mentioning are the beautiful costumes crafted in such rich detail that encapsulates the magnificent splendor of the era. It feels outrageously expensive because it is and it's well worth the effort since the cast looked positively royal.

There are two versions of the drama - the non-censored version aired in Taiwan (CTV) and edited version in China without the plunging necklines. I normally wouldn't care but it was pretty funny given that I was watching this on Hunan TV when it first came out in all its former glory and the next thing I knew, head shots.

For synopsis, cast and ratings, see 2015 popular cdramas.

Source: 3Lian, PCHome