The Chinese television landscape is currently captivated by “My Mountains and Seas” (我的山与海), a new drama series that premiered on March 7th, 2026, on CCTV-8 and simultaneously on Youku. The series, starring Tan Songyun, is already generating significant buzz, not only for its compelling narrative but likewise for its connection to another recent hit, the suspenseful historical drama “The Story of Tang Dynasty” (唐朝诡事录). Both projects share the same director, Bergsun (柏杉), yet represent markedly different approaches to storytelling, reflecting a broader trend of genre diversification within Chinese television.
“My Mountains and Seas” distinguishes itself as a realistic drama focusing on the struggles and triumphs of women during China’s period of reform and opening up. This contrasts sharply with “The Story of Tang Dynasty,” which delves into the mysteries and intrigues of the Tang Dynasty. As noted by several sources, these two series act as “contemporary mirrors,” showcasing the evolving depth and breadth of Chinese drama production. The success of both demonstrates a willingness to experiment with different genres and themes, appealing to a wider audience.
A Story Rooted in Real Life
The drama is based on the novel “I and My Fate” (我和我的命) by award-winning author Liang Xiaosheng (梁晓声). The novel, which earned Liang the prestigious Mao Dun Literary Prize, was inspired by the true story of a woman from Guizhou province who migrated to Shenzhen to seek economic opportunities. This grounding in reality is a key element of the series’ appeal, resonating with viewers who recognize the challenges and aspirations of those who experienced similar journeys during China’s rapid economic transformation. The change in title to “My Mountains and Seas” is symbolic, representing the protagonist’s journey from the constraints of her rural origins (“mountains”) to the possibilities of the bustling coastal city (“seas”).
According to reports, the series has already garnered over 500,000 pre-orders on Youku, topping the platform’s list of anticipated dramas. This strong pre-launch interest suggests a high level of expectation among viewers, fueled by the series’ strong creative team and compelling premise. The indicate’s popularity speaks to a growing appetite for stories that reflect the lived experiences of ordinary people, particularly women, navigating the complexities of modern China.
A Stellar Creative Team
Beyond the source material, “My Mountains and Seas” boasts a formidable production team. Director Bergsun previously helmed “The Story of Tang Dynasty 2,” which is widely considered the strongest installment in the “Tang Dynasty” series. His attention to detail and ability to create suspenseful and engaging narratives are expected to translate well to this new project. The series is also overseen by Guo Jingyu (郭靖宇), a well-known director and screenwriter celebrated for his realistic portrayals of everyday life in dramas like “The Most Beautiful Youth” (最美的青春) and “Iron Pear Flower” (铁梨花). Guo Jingyu is known for avoiding overly sensationalized storylines, instead focusing on the authentic struggles and incremental progress of his characters.
The production team has gone to great lengths to recreate the atmosphere of 1990s Shenzhen, particularly the Huaqiangbei electronics market. Reportedly, the set design meticulously replicates the streets and shops of that era, incorporating authentic props like pagers and enamel mugs to enhance the sense of immersion. This commitment to historical accuracy is intended to transport viewers back in time and provide a more visceral connection to the story.
The Resonance of Shenzhen’s Story
The setting of Shenzhen is particularly significant. The city has become a symbol of China’s economic miracle, attracting millions of migrant workers seeking opportunities. “My Mountains and Seas” taps into this narrative, exploring the experiences of those who left their homes and families to build new lives in the city. The series’ focus on the challenges faced by women in this context is particularly noteworthy, highlighting their resilience, determination, and contributions to China’s economic growth. The drama’s success is, in part, attributed to its ability to resonate with the experiences of those who have lived through similar journeys, particularly the “Shenzhen fighters” – those who contributed to the city’s rapid development.
Liang Xiaosheng, the author of the original novel, has stated that “My Mountains and Seas” is, in some ways, a response to his previous work, “Human World” (人世间). He aimed to address certain emotional gaps he felt were present in that earlier novel, further demonstrating his commitment to exploring the complexities of human experience. This personal connection to the material adds another layer of depth to the series.
A Broader Trend in Chinese Television
The popularity of “My Mountains and Seas” also reflects a broader trend in Chinese television: a growing demand for high-quality, realistic dramas that address contemporary social issues. The series’ success, alongside that of “The Story of Tang Dynasty,” demonstrates a willingness among both creators and audiences to embrace diverse genres, and narratives. This shift is driven, in part, by a desire to move beyond formulaic storylines and offer more nuanced and thought-provoking content. The competition among cities to produce hit television series – a phenomenon described as a “TV battle” – is also contributing to this trend, as local governments seek to promote their cities and attract investment through cultural production.
The “TV Battle” and Regional Competition
The increasing competition between cities to produce successful television dramas is a notable development in the Chinese entertainment industry. Local governments are recognizing the cultural and economic benefits of investing in television production, viewing it as a way to enhance their city’s image and attract tourism. This competition is driving innovation and encouraging the creation of more diverse and high-quality content. The success of “My Mountains and Seas,” set in Shenzhen, is a prime example of how a city can leverage television to showcase its unique story and attract attention.
The series’ focus on the experiences of women is also significant. In recent years, there has been a growing demand for stories that center on female characters and explore their perspectives. “My Mountains and Seas” addresses this demand by portraying the struggles and triumphs of women navigating a rapidly changing society. This focus on female empowerment is likely to resonate with a broad audience and contribute to the series’ continued success.
As “My Mountains and Seas” continues its run on CCTV-8 and Youku, it is poised to become one of the defining dramas of 2026. Its compelling narrative, strong creative team, and resonance with contemporary social issues have already captivated audiences, and its success is likely to inspire further innovation and diversification within the Chinese television industry. The next key date for the series is the completion of its broadcast run, scheduled for March 31st, 2026, after which viewership figures and critical reception will be fully assessed.
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