The Leading Stars (许你星河千里) starring Ryan Cheng Lei and Shen Yujie combines mystery, romance, and high-stakes rescue missions against the backdrop of China’s remote wilderness. Filming, which began in late-May is expected to conclude in September, with much of the series being shot entirely on location in Xinjiang and Gansu. It’s why we have these shots of deserts and mountains. Granted that it’s drawn criticisms for being similar in style to Ni Ni and Bai Yu’s fantasy adventure drama Parallel World, but it does give the same vibes even if it’s completely different in theme.
For Cheng Lei, The Leading Stars will be his first leading role in a modern full-length drama and a shift from his many historical romance dramas. It will be action-packed indeed, promising a rugged off-road racing competition across the vast, desolate wilderness. The story centers on an unsolved car accident that occurred sixteen years earlier and gradually uncovers hidden truths while following dangerous missions. Cheng Lei plays the commanding and fearless rescue team captain Cheng Zhuo. Shen Yuejie makes up the other half of the power couple as she plays the bold, charismatic off-road expedition leader Ba Yunye.
Produced jointly by iQIYI and Stellar Media, the series is directed by Chen Zhoufei (Shine on Me) and written by Fu Liye. It also stars Mao Xiaohui, Li Geyang, Tu Songyan and Yu Yi.
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