9.4分国产良心，也跌落神坛了

Core Viewpoint - The return of the popular Chinese documentary series "A Bite of China" has sparked significant controversy, particularly regarding its portrayal of traditional cooking techniques that some viewers find outdated and harmful [1][3][20]. Group 1: Background and Popularity - "A Bite of China" first aired in 2012 and received widespread acclaim, achieving a high rating of 9.4 on Douban, which led to a cultural phenomenon around food [8][9]. - The second season followed in 2014, maintaining the show's popularity and resulting in a surge of food-related media imitating its style [13][15]. - However, the third season faced a drastic drop in ratings, plummeting to 3.8, indicating a significant decline in viewer reception [18]. Group 2: Controversy Surrounding Season 4 - The fourth season, which aired earlier in the year, was largely ignored until it was released on video platforms, where it received a wave of criticism [20]. - The first episode's focus on traditional cooking techniques, particularly the "贴烧饼" (sticking pancakes) method, drew ire for its depiction of labor-intensive and potentially harmful practices [23][24]. - Viewers expressed concern over the physical toll on the workers, questioning the necessity of such traditional methods in modern times [35][36]. Group 3: Cultural and Social Commentary - The backlash reflects a broader societal shift away from glorifying suffering and hardship, with audiences increasingly rejecting narratives that romanticize "苦难" (suffering) [40][62]. - The documentary's failure to adequately address the implications of these traditional practices and the personal experiences of the workers contributed to viewer dissatisfaction [68][70]. - The series has been criticized for lacking depth in exploring the cultural significance of food and the resilience of individuals, focusing instead on the hardships without showcasing hope or progress [85][86]. Group 4: Industry Implications - The decline in quality and relevance of "A Bite of China" raises concerns about the future of documentary storytelling in China, particularly in how it engages with contemporary issues [67][89]. - The series' inability to resonate with current audience expectations highlights a disconnect between traditional narratives and modern sensibilities, suggesting a need for creators to adapt their storytelling approaches [88][90].