Yu Zui

I. INTRODUCTION

Yu Zui is a 2016 Chinese web series jointly produced by iQiyi, New Classics Media and Zeus Entertainment. It is based on the crime novel of the same name by Chang Shuxin, and stars Zhang Yishan in the title role. The series premiered on 23 May 2016 via iQiyi and aired for two seasons. The third season of the series is currently in production.

II. SYNOPSIS

It is about a police academy student named Yu Zhui, having a dilemma between life and society due to a special selection and the breathtaking story of what he underwent after becoming an undercover.

III. RECEPTION

The drama received positive reception. It attracted more than 100 million views on iQiyi within days of its premiere, making it one of the most popular TV series tailored for the online platform. It also has a score of 8.9/10 on Douban, becoming one of the highest rated dramas.

Television producer and critic Xie Xiaohu credits the success of “Yu Zui” to the unique character of its protagonist, who differs from the usual straight-laced, incorruptible police officers; and the show's attention-grabbing and lewd content. The background of the original writer Chang Shuxin, who was jailed decades ago and thus has a good understanding of police officers, also contributed to the success of the show.

Despite the show's success, the series was later taken off the internet. Numerous sources have pointed to China’s media regulation body, the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film, and Television (SAPPRFT), who banned the show for its explicit content.

IV. AWARDS AND NOMINATIONS