What began as lavish period epics like Empresses in the Palace on Netflix in 2015 has evolved into a diverse slate of contemporary hits. Today, Chinese dramas are more than a cultural novelty—they're contenders on the global stage.
Leading the charge is Jessica Quan, manager at Shinning Studio, Hujing Digital Media & Entertainment Group and 2025 International Emmy semifinal judge. Her expertise in global licensing has propelled titles like The First Frost and Regeneration onto Netflix's worldwide top 10 lists.
"People used to think the Chinese mainland only made good period dramas," Quan explains. "But our modern stories—about love, social pressure, and real lives—are resonating deeply across continents."
Serving on the Emmy jury, Quan evaluated shows from emerging markets and found the narrative craftsmanship extraordinary. She recalls a US studio's indoor street set recreated down to a lipstick stain. "They saw themselves as creators, not just workers. They were making art, not clocking hours," she says.
While the Chinese mainland's production hardware—from cameras to soundstages—is on par with global competitors, Quan argues the real frontier lies in soft skills: script development, pacing, and narrative depth. "It's not about having more equipment," she notes, "but investing spirit and pride into every frame."
As streaming platforms expand their catalogs, expect Chinese dramas to push creative boundaries, weaving authentic stories that bridge cultures and captivate viewers worldwide.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
