"Revitalizing Chinese Dramas" - Youhug Global Content Showcase 2025 Paves the Way for Globalizing Chinese Dramas
HONG KONG, March 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On March 17, Youhug Media successfully held its Global Content Showcase 2025 in Hong Kong under the theme "Revitalizing Chinese Dramas". Following its global content showcase in 2024, the company made a grand return to the 2025 Hong Kong International Film & TV Market (FILMART) with exciting projects, including "Rebirth", "Mobius", "Blossoms of Power", "Sword Duel at Mount Hua", "The Awakening", "Escape To Your Heart", "Inferno of Wings", and "Have It All". In addition, the latest global report for "Blossom" was unveiled, and Youhug announced enhanced collaborations with multiple international platforms to advance the global reach of Chinese drama series. Over 400 guests attended the event, including Luo Yi, Deputy Director-General of Shanghai Municipal Administration of Radio and Television, as well as Gan Li, Deputy Director of Sichuan Provincial Bureau of Radio and Television. Industry partners, cast and crew members, and media representatives also joined the content showcase.
With a Global Perspective, Youhug Advances Global Strategy for Chinese Dramas
Since its establishment in 2012, Youhug has adhered to the core philosophy of "Crafting Excellence with Dedication," striving to lead the Chinese film and television industry. Its productions have been featured on major global platforms including Tencent, Youku, iQIYI, TVB, Viu, HOYTV, NETFLIX, and Viki. At the event, Lyu Chao, CEO of Youhug Media, remarked, "We chose FILMART as the platform for unveiling our 2025 line-up because of the remarkable success our projects achieved here last year. Hong Kong has become a strategic hub for Youhug, providing a gateway for our dramas to reach international audiences. Through collaborations with TVB and other partners, we are committed to producing high-quality Chinese-language dramas. Beyond the costume drama introduced today, we will continue to incorporate more Chinese-language themes, production teams, directors, and talents to expand the global influence of Chinese storytelling."
Looking ahead, Lyu Chao envisions Youhug developing more internationally competitive dramas. Over the next decade, the company plans to establish an annual presence in Hong Kong, using the city as a launchpad to showcase Chinese-language content to the world—inviting global audiences to experience the richness of Chinese culture.
Youhug Unveils Four Major Productions with Diverse Storylines
1. "Blossom": 'Blossom-Style Aesthetics' Captivate Global Audiences
In 2024, "Blossom" became a hit drama, enchanting viewers worldwide with its distinctive 'Blossom-style aesthetics.' Domestically, its popularity index surpassed 30,000 on Tencent Video and aired during prime time on Zhejiang TV and Henan TV. Internationally, the series amassed over 500 million views across various platforms. At the press conference, the announcement of the global success of "Blossom" moved attendees and fans, with many expressing sentiments such as, "It's like watching our own child finally succeed."
Reflecting on this remarkable global achievement, Zhang Yingying, Producer of "Blossom" and General Manager of Huaxi Studio under Youhug Media, remarked that its international resonance stems not only from three key principles—a return to Eastern aesthetics in visual storytelling, a deep connection to traditional cultural values, and an unwavering commitment to cinematic craftsmanship—but also from the support of audiences worldwide. Lead actress Meng Ziyi and lead actor Li Yunrui made special appearances, expressing their deep connection to the series and their roles. They hope this sincere work, representing Eastern aesthetics, will reach and be cherished by a broader audience. It is reported that in May this year, the Cantonese version of "Blossom" will premiere on HOYTV in Hong Kong and Macau, China, allowing more viewers to experience the unique charm of its "Zi-Style Aesthetics."
2. "Rebirth": Classic IP with Innovative Interpretation, Epic Snowfield Battles Define "Rebirth Spirit"
The television series "Rebirth" began filming last December and is currently being shot in Hengdian. Directed by HaoJiJi Lv, the drama continues the classic narrative with innovative storytelling. After a deadly battle on the frozen lake, Chu Qiao pretends to lose her memory to get close to the tyrant Yan Xun and take revenge. She must choose between helping the Tang Prince or the mysterious King of Qinghai, who looks exactly like her old friend Zhuge Yue – a man she thought was dead. Together, they fight to end Yan Xun's cruel rule and build a fair world for all.
At the showcase, executive producer Zhang Meng, along with lead actors and actresses Yunrui Li, YangTianTian Huang, KangLe Zhang, and Meng Xia, unveiled the global premiere trailer. The trailer instantly transports viewers to the -30°C frozen battlefield. As different forces emerge, an epic battle for vengeance is about to begin. Audiences will hold their breath watching the characters face impossible dangers. Director HaoJiJi Lv employs visually striking scenes and surreal color palettes to show Chu Qiao's powerful journey. In one iconic moment, she slashes through chains of oppression with her sword in a snowstorm, her fierce cry cutting through the darkness like a declaration of freedom.
As Zhang Meng expressed, "Chu Qiao embodies a courageous and resilient female figure, reflecting how individuals can find hope in despair, and break free from constraints to achieve rebirth. We hope the 'Rebirth Spirit' inspires and encourages everyone."
3. "Mobius": Chinese Suspense Blends Global Elements, Expands "Light Sci-Fi" Horizons
The web series Mobius, an innovative suspense project by Youhug Media, marks a creative leap in the genre. Directed by Liu Zhangmu and starring Bai Jingting, Janice Man, and Song Yang, the series blends light sci-fi elements with a time-loop narrative to unravel a mystery centered on the enigmatic "Figure X," delving into the complexities of human nature within a surreal framework.
At the showcase, director Liu Zhangmu and Zheng Tianfu, General Manager of Youhug Lego Studio and producer, unveiled the global premiere trailer. The preview introduces Bai Jingting as police officer Ding Qi, trapped in a bizarre criminal conspiracy. While using an accidental time-loop ability to pursue the killer, he discovers the perpetrator also manipulates the laws of time and space. This battle against causality promises to redefine time-loop storytelling in sci-fi, setting the stage for a mind-bending showdown.
Additionally, Liu Zhangmu introduced Chutimon Chuengcharoensukying (Aokbab), lead actress of the hit Thai film Bad Genius, will join the cast in a pivotal role. Zheng Tianfu noted, "This collaboration marks Youhug's first partnership with top-tier Asian actress, infusing international DNA into Chinese suspense dramas. We hope 'Mobius' will resonate with both domestic and global audiences."
4. "Blossoms of Power": Power, Incense Lore, and a New Vision for Historical Drama
The television series "Blossoms of Power is adapted from a novel by Jin Huang, an author on Qidian platform under Yuewen Group. Following the success of "Blossom", Tencent Video and Youhug Media have collaborated once again to produce this meticulously crafted historical drama. The series reunites the original production team, with Zhang Yingying as the producer, Zhong Qing directing, and starring Meng Ziyi and He Yu in the lead roles. The narrative follows Gu Qingzhi, who, after the tragic loss of her family, returns under the identity of Shen Xihe, a princess from the northwest. She transforms from a delicate "rose of the frontier" into a cold-hearted princess, determined to control her own destiny and navigate the political landscape. Meanwhile, Crown Prince Xiao Huayong, hiding his sharp intellect behind frail health, is keenly aware of the court's intricacies. Together, they embark on a journey of mutual understanding and alliance, steering the tides of power.
At the showcase, producer Zhang Yingying, along with lead actress Meng Ziyi and lead actor He Yu, unveiled the first concept poster. The poster, though showing the protagonists from behind, is rich with subtle details. The "drifting scented mist" symbolizes Shen Xihe's mastery in using scents to influence hearts. The contrast between the vast Northwest frontier and imperial courts hints at two rival factions poised for collision.. The protagonists stand between light and shadow, with the heroine guiding the hero from darkness, symbolizing their joint ascent to power. Zhang Yingying stated, " 'Blossoms of Power' aims to present viewers with a feast of visual and narrative elements: we feature a strong female lead with grand vision; a compelling plot that unravels mysteries in the pursuit of truth; and profound themes that embody Eastern aesthetics, promote traditional culture, and convey ideals of family and nation".
Notably, "Blossoms of Power" marks the third collaboration between Zhang Yingying, Zoey Meng, and He Yu. Their first project together, "Duel on Mount Hua", a fresh interpretation of Jin Yong's classic wuxia universe celebrating chivalry—will also premiere soon, aiming to captivate global audiences.
Youhug Media Expands Slate with Fantasy, Female-Centric, and Strange Tales
In addition to the above projects, Youhug is simultaneously releasing several promising works: "The Awakening": Directed by Cao Dun, with Fu Yongqiang as the chief screenwriter and Gong Jue participating in the scriptwriting, This series follows the story of Forty-Seven, a resident of Wangcheng's sewer system, who helps others escape persecution by evil forces while awakening memories and uncovering past secrets. A fantasy adventure, ready to unfold!
"Escape To Your Heart": Collaborating with Tencent Video and the original author of "Blossoms," Zhi Zhi, this project is currently in development. Written by renowned screenwriter Nan Zhen, the story directly addresses women's dilemmas in marriage and relationships. Through classical narrative, it confronts contemporary issues, embodying the "Girl Power" spirit across time. Filming begins mid-year.
"Inferno of Wings": Adapted from Bai Lu Cheng Shuang's Eastern fantasy novel, Helmed by chief director Guo Jingming and scripted by Qian Jue, the series is set to begin production in the second half of the year. Set in a world where humans, demons, and gods coexist during the Da Qian Dynasty, the narrative blends urban legends with everyday life, showcasing Eastern strange tales aesthetics.
"Have It All": A collaboration between Youhug Media and Yuekai Entertainment, this historical legend drama combines classical Eastern charm with contemporary relevance. Screenwriters Zou Yue and Quan Ying craft characters who, through courage and strategy, defy fate to protect their beloved country and people.
Future Outlook: Crafting Global Stories, Making "Chinese Content as Top Content"
Youhug Media's Global Content Showcase not only served as a platform to display content but also marked a strategic declaration of its transition from "local creation" to "global storytelling". In his speech, Lyu Chao emphasized, "Whether it's from martial arts spirit to modern suspense, or from classical aesthetics to deep human portrayal, we aim to use each work as a bridge to let the world feel the warmth of Chinese stories". Youhug will continue to promote "Chinese dramas going global" through international expressions of Eastern aesthetics and precise layouts of diverse genres, ultimately achieving the vision of "Chinese content as top content."
SOURCE Youhug Media
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