Three different men from similar backgrounds will pursue their dreams in troubled times in Like a Flowing River 大江大河, an upcoming drama based on Ah Nai’s novel River of Time. The series is split into two seasons, each with 45 episodes.
Like A Flowing River has a star-studded cast. The drama reunites Wang Kai and Yang Shuo from Ode to Joy, though this time, they both play much more serious characters in a more dramatic setting. I’ve been following Wang Kai since he was cast in Ding Mo’s novels and his image change as a buff policeman to a poor scholar is a little difficult to swallow as the actor had to undergo weight loss to achieve the look.
Thumbs up to that 70’s get up…
The drama also marks Dong Zi Jian‘s small screen debut. The actor is best known for his roles in films Young Style (2013) and At Cafe 6 (2016).
Set from 1978 until 1992, the story follows the changes in the lives of three men during the period of Chinese economic reform. In spite of his background, Song Yunhui (Wang Kai) strives hard to achieve greater heights and finds success in his career. His brother-in-law Lei Dongbao may not be educated but he is a leader whom people follow. Yang Xun (Dong Zi Jian) aspires to become a businessman.
Tong Yao plays the role of Song Yunping, Song Yunhui’s sister and at the same time Lei Dongbao’s wife. She is a kind and gentle girl who wholeheartedly supports both her husband and her brother.
Meanwhile, other casts include Zhou Fang as Cheng Kaiyan, Song Yunhui’s first wife, Gina Jin as Liang Sishen, Song Yunhui’s penpal and confidante who was studying in America and Yang Lixin as Clerk Shui.
Gotta prepare lots of tissues. The series portrays a lot of hardships during the economic reform in China. Just the teaser is enough to make me cry with the cast’s excellent acting combined with the tearful background music. All in all, the production is quite excellent.
Release Date: December 10, 2018 Dragon TV, Beijing TV (two episodes daily at 7:30pm)
Vote for your favorite Chinese series in 2018.
Source: 1
