Core Insights - The long drama market is expected to face a "bleak" end in 2025, with significant changes in industry dynamics anticipated due to a challenging environment [1] Group 1: Industry Trends - The traditional "Big Six" production companies are experiencing a decline in both output and market share, with Huace Film and TV significantly reducing its new releases from seven to three this year [2] - New releases from New Classics Media have also decreased, with only one major drama expected in 2025 compared to multiple successful titles last year [3] - The overall production capacity of companies like Noon Sunshine and Ningmeng Media has remained stable, but their new releases have not matched the success of previous years [5] Group 2: Emerging Players - New players in the industry are fiercely competing, with companies like Changxin Media and Jiaxing Media gaining attention through successful new releases [14][16] - Quantum Pan Entertainment and Chunyu Media's collaboration on "Cang Hai Chuan" has emerged as a leading title in the male-oriented drama category, showcasing the potential of new entrants [21] - Other emerging companies like Xixi Film and Xinglian Film have also produced new works, indicating a slight recovery in their performance compared to last year [23] Group 3: Performance Metrics - The performance of dramas has varied significantly, with some productions achieving high ratings while others struggle to gain traction, reflecting the competitive nature of the market [9][11] - The drama "Xu Wo Yao Yan" from Jinhe Media has achieved notable success, marking a significant comeback for the company after a period of fewer hits [18] - The overall sentiment in the industry suggests that even successful productions are facing challenges in achieving blockbuster status, indicating a tough market environment [30]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolving landscape of Chinese drama series, particularly focusing on the performance and influence of leading actresses like Liu Shishi, and how their roles and the production dynamics affect the overall reception of the shows [1][3][24]. Group 1: Performance and Role Dynamics - Liu Shishi's portrayal in "Huai Shui Zhu Ting" showcases a blend of various acting styles, reflecting a multi-faceted performance that combines elements from different popular characters [8][10]. - The article critiques the trend of leading actresses having excessive control over their roles, which can lead to a disconnect with the audience and a decline in the quality of the production [5][23]. - The concept of "Tian Xuan Gu Ren" (heavenly chosen ancient person) is discussed, highlighting how the perception of actresses has shifted from their acting skills to their physical presence and demeanor [14][16]. Group 2: Audience Reception and Critique - The audience's mixed reactions to "Huai Shui Zhu Ting" indicate that while there is a viewership, the critical reception has been less favorable, drawing comparisons to previous works like "Ru Yi Chuan" [3][24]. - The article suggests that the overemphasis on aesthetics and personal interpretation by actresses can detract from the narrative and character development, leading to a lack of resonance with viewers [18][23]. - The production's failure to connect with the audience is attributed to a lack of respect for professional input and an over-reliance on star power, which can result in a superficial portrayal of characters [24][25].