Core Insights - The competition among long video platforms for male-oriented dramas is intensifying as they prepare for the summer 2025 release schedule, with platforms like Youku, Tencent Video, and iQIYI announcing new titles [1][3][12] - The success of these dramas hinges not only on male viewership but significantly on female audience engagement, as platforms recognize that "whoever wins the female audience wins the market" [3][20] Group 1: Upcoming Dramas and Strategies - Youku's "Cang Hai Chuan" has garnered over 9 million reservations, surpassing the previous record set by "Nan Hong" [4] - Tencent's "Zhe Yao" is strategically designed to appeal to female viewers by incorporating romantic elements into its narrative, achieving over 30,000 views within six days of release [11][19] - iQIYI's "Ren Sheng Ruo Ru Chi Jian" is positioned uniquely in the market, focusing on a historical narrative that diverges from typical male-centric themes [6][9] Group 2: Market Dynamics and Audience Preferences - The male-oriented drama market is characterized by a "four-way standoff," with each platform attempting to differentiate itself through unique storytelling and character development [13][16] - Platforms are increasingly aware that merely casting popular male leads is insufficient; they must also engage female viewers through relatable narratives and emotional depth [20] - The success of dramas like "Qing Yu Nian" demonstrates the potential for male-centric stories to resonate with female audiences when they incorporate relatable themes and emotional arcs [19][20]