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

Beauties in the Closet

Set during the Tang Dynasty, Beauties in the Closet 柜中美人 is based on a 2011 novel by Shui He 水合 about two fox spirits sent to the palace to prevent the imperial killings against their tribe. In hopes of hastening the mission, one of them accepts a secret order to assassinate the king.

It serves as a sequel to Legend of the Qing Qiu Fox despite having no actual relation to the former, thank goodness for that. Though it is a Tangren production that will include a reprisal from Sabrina Chen Yao in the role of a fox spirit while Vic Zhou and Hu Bing Qi take the lead as the star-crossed lovers. 

I haven't seen a Taiwanese drama in years, which is why the recent foray of Joe Cheng and now Vic Zhou into the historical genre is a welcome sight. More please.

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

Source: Yesky

Scarlet Heart: Ryeo coming soon

Scarlet Heart: Ryeo 보보경심: 려 is the 2016 k-drama adaptation of the popular c-novel by Tong Hua, which made waves across Asia due to the 2011 Chinese drama starring Nicky Wu and Liu Shi Shi.

Beneath the political power plays and time-travel is a captivating story about love where reigning k-pop idol IU takes the lead as the charming and intelligent heroine with Lee Joon Ki as her valiant prince. 

Lee Joon Ki's delicate features earned him the nickname minam aka beautiful man and there's more handsomeness to go around with Kang Haneul and a string of pretty boys joining the mix to complete the remaining princes of Goryeo. It is literally a feast for the eyes, but Scarlet Heart carries a great story requiring great acting so I really hope the cast delivers.

Kim Kyu-tae who is also behind the success of That Winter, the Wind Blows takes the helm as PD and the drama will be produced in its entirety prior to airing. Given the record-breaking success of another pre-produced drama called Descendants of the Sun as well as the craziness around Korea's live-shoot system, I say amen to that.

Scarlet Heart: Ryeo is slated for a simultaneous release in Korea and China on Aug 29, 2016. I have no clue whether the k-version can ever come close to the former but naysayer or not, I simply cannot wait!

For synopsis, cast and ratings, see 2016 kdrama listing. 

Source: EntMSN, Naver, Xinwen83133