I. INTRODUCTION
Winter Begonia is a 2020 Chinese television series starring Huang Xiaoming, Yin Zheng, and Charmaine Sheh, based on Shui Ru Tian Er's BL web novel of the same name. It aired exclusively on iQiyi and tells the story of the close relationship between a shrewd businessman and a Peking opera genius right before the World War II. While the original web novel depicted the relationship between the two main men as romantic, the adaptation changed this depiction into a "bromance".
II. SYNOPSIS
A story that revolves around a Peking opera performer and a wealthy businessman who are brought together by their love for Peking opera.
Set in the 1930's, it follows Shang Xi Rui, a Peking opera performer who relies on his exceptional talent to gain fame in Beiping. Being an outsider, he faces opposition from the locals but doesn't relent nor give up in fulfilling his dreams to promote Peking opera. As he pours himself into mastering the art, wealthy businessman Cheng Feng Tai becomes deeply captivated after watching a performance for the first time. He makes acquaintance with Shang Xi Rui and becomes an avid supporter. Through Cheng Feng Tai's help, Shang Xi Rui builds Shui Yun Lou and trains a new troupe. When the Japanese army invade Beiping in 1937 and patriotic men and women take up arms to fight, Shang Xi Rui and Cheng Feng Tai are moved to make sacrifices for their country.
III. TRAILER
IV. RECEPTION
Winter Begonia has been well received by viewers and critics. Its first 12 episodes debuted with a 7.3 out of 10 on Douban. By its conclusion, the show subsequently rose to an 8.1, aggregated by over 100,000 user reviews.The series reportedly went viral on Sina Weibo, in which the show's hashtag received 480 million clicks.
Beijing Youth Entertainment praised Huang Xiaoming and Yin Zheng's acting as well as the drama's depiction of Peking opera, highlighting it as an example of the potential for film and television to help spread traditional Chinese art and culture.People's Entertainment praised the show's visuals and the interesting depiction of female characters and their relationships.
V. AWARDS AND NOMINATIONS
