Tales of Dark River (暗河传), starring Simon Gong Jun and Peng Xiaoran, has wrapped filming. Directed by Yin Tao and adapted from Zhou Mu Nan’s novel, the series is set in a world of assassins. Gong Jun plays the character Su Muyu. Those familiar with The Blood of Youth universe would know he’s hailed as one of the four demonic leaders alongside the likes of Ye Dingzhi whose story is fleshed out in Dashing Youth.
Tales of Dark River follows Su Muyu, the leader of an elite assassin group caught in the midst of a deadly succession conflict within the Dark River organization. As rival clan leaders send assassins to seize power, Su Muyu and his allies are forced into a battle of ideals and survival.
The plot certainly sounds intriguing. And it reminds me of the J-movie Shinobi where assassins are pitted against each other but in the wuxia genre. From the few glimpses post-filming, Gong Jun is badass as the swordsman in red and black, exuding cold elegance. I’m also looking forward to a fresh couple pairing with Peng Xiaoran. They are joined by Qiao Zhenyu as a special star. The cast also includes Chang Huasen (second lead again?), Yang Yutong, Kong Xue’er, Zhang Shian and many more.
Filmed over 138 days, the drama boasts 185 meticulously designed sets, 2,012 costumes, and 142 vividly crafted characters.
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