The Ultimate Chinese Drama List 2019 and 2020: Top Picks for Every Fan
The Ultimate Chinese Drama List 2019 and 2020: Top Picks for Every Fan
The years 2019 and 2020 marked a significant turning point in the global popularity of Chinese dramas (C-dramas). With the rise of international streaming platforms like WeTV, iQIYI, and Viki, these two years delivered some of the most iconic stories, groundbreaking production values, and unforgettable performances in Asian television history. Whether you are a fan of sprawling historical epics, heart-fluttering modern romances, or high-stakes wuxia adventures, this Chinese drama list 2019 and 2020 covers the absolute must-watch titles that defined an era.
The Best Chinese Dramas of 2019: A Year of Masterpieces
2019 was arguably one of the strongest years for C-dramas, characterized by high-budget productions and scripts that pushed the boundaries of traditional storytelling. The year saw the emergence of "The Untamed," a series that would go on to become a global phenomenon.
1. The Untamed (Chen Qing Ling)
No Chinese drama list 2019 and 2020 is complete without The Untamed. Based on the novel Mo Dao Zu Shi, this xianxia series stars Xiao Zhan and Wang Yibo. It tells the story of two soulmates who meet during their youth and reunite sixteen years later to solve a series of mysterious murders. Its complex characters, beautiful cinematography, and emotional depth turned it into a cultural milestone.
2. Joy of Life (Qing Yu Nian)
Joy of Life defied genre conventions by blending historical political intrigue with time-travel elements and sharp comedy. Starring Zhang Ruoyun, the drama follows a young man with a mysterious past who navigates the dangerous waters of the imperial court. It is widely praised for its brilliant writing and high-caliber acting, making it a staple for fans of smart, fast-paced narratives.
3. Go Go Squid!
In the realm of modern romance, Go Go Squid! dominated the 2019 summer charts. This drama focused on the world of professional e-sports and the sweet relationship between a genius computer engineering student and a cold, legendary pro-gamer. Its lighthearted tone and "fluff" factor made it an instant hit for those looking for feel-good content.
4. Goodbye My Princess
For those who love a good "tear-jerker," Goodbye My Princess provided one of the most tragic and hauntingly beautiful stories of the year. The chemistry between the leads and the breathtaking scenery of the Western Regions left a lasting impression on viewers worldwide.
Top Chinese Dramas of 2020: Innovation and Variety
While 2019 was about grand epics, 2020 brought more innovation in terms of storytelling formats and genre-bending plots. Despite the global challenges of that year, the C-drama industry flourished, providing high-quality entertainment for audiences stuck at home.
1. Go Ahead (Yi Jia Ren Zhi Ming)
Go Ahead was a massive hit in 2020, focusing on the concept of "found family." It tells the story of three unrelated children who grow up together under the care of two fathers. The drama resonated deeply with audiences for its realistic portrayal of family dynamics, trauma, and healing, proving that a drama doesn't need magic or swords to be captivating.
2. The Romance of Tiger and Rose
This drama was the "sleeper hit" of 2020. It follows a screenwriter who gets trapped in her own script, becoming a secondary character who was supposed to die early. With its clever subversion of gender tropes and hilarious dialogue, it catapulted Zhao Lusi to superstardom and became a favorite for fans of rom-coms.
3. Love and Redemption
Following the tradition of high-fantasy xianxia, Love and Redemption captured hearts with its "ten lifetimes" of love and sacrifice. The chemistry between Cheng Yi and Yuan Bingyan was palpable, and the series is often compared to previous hits like Ashes of Love for its emotional intensity and visual effects.
4. Under the Power
Technically premiering in late 2019 and concluding in early 2020, this historical detective drama became a fan favorite. The bantering relationship between a cold-hearted secret police officer and a spunky female constable made for an addictive watch, fueled by the incredible acting of Tan Songyun and Allen Ren.
| Feature/Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Most Popular Genre (2019) | Xianxia and Political Wuxia (The Untamed, Joy of Life). |
| Most Popular Genre (2020) | Modern Slice of Life and Genre-Bending Rom-Coms. |
| Breakout Stars | Xiao Zhan, Wang Yibo, Zhao Lusi, and Cheng Yi. |
| Streaming Platforms | Significant expansion of WeTV, iQIYI, and Youku globally. |
| Production Quality | Shift towards movie-grade cinematography and CGI. |
Why These Years Were Important for C-Dramas
Analyzing the Chinese drama list 2019 and 2020 reveals a shift in the industry's approach to content. In the past, many C-dramas were criticized for being too long or having low-budget special effects. However, the productions during this period began to prioritize tight storytelling and high-end visual aesthetics.
Furthermore, the variety of genres expanded. We saw the rise of the "Suspense/Thriller" genre with the *Light On Series* by iQIYI (notably *The Bad Kids* in 2020), which offered dark, gritty narratives that were previously rare in the C-drama landscape. This diversification ensured that there was something for every type of viewer, from the hardcore fantasy lover to the casual drama fan.
Genre Highlights: Wuxia vs. Xianxia
For newcomers, understanding the difference is key. 2019's *The Untamed* is a prime example of Xianxia (high fantasy with immortals and gods), while 2020's *Legend of Fei* (starring Wang Yibo and Zhao Liying) falls more into the Wuxia category (martial arts heroes in a mortal world). Both years provided stellar examples of these genres, blending traditional Chinese values with modern filmmaking techniques.
Essential "Hidden Gems" from 2019 and 2020
Beyond the blockbuster titles, several smaller productions deserve a spot on your watchlist:
- The Longest Day in Chang'an (2019): A visually stunning historical thriller set over the course of 24 hours.
- Le Coup de Foudre (2019): A heartwarming modern romance based on a true story.
- Hikaru no Go (2020): A live-action adaptation of the famous Japanese manga that surprised everyone with its high quality and emotional resonance.
- Dating in the Kitchen (2020): A charming romance centered around food and a significant age gap that worked perfectly due to the leads' chemistry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Where can I watch Chinese dramas from 2019 and 2020 with English subtitles?
Most popular dramas from these years are available on official streaming platforms like WeTV (Tencent Video), iQIYI, Youku, and Viki. Many are also available on YouTube via the production companies' official channels.
2. Which drama is better: The Untamed or Joy of Life?
This depends on your preference. If you enjoy deep emotional bonds, fantasy, and character-driven drama, The Untamed is a must. If you prefer witty dialogue, complex political plots, and a touch of science fiction, Joy of Life is the better choice.
3. Are these dramas suitable for beginners?
Yes! Go Go Squid! and The Romance of Tiger and Rose are excellent entry points for those new to C-dramas because they are engaging, easy to follow, and exhibit great production quality.
Conclusion
The Chinese drama list 2019 and 2020 represents a golden era of television that successfully bridged the gap between Chinese domestic audiences and the international market. From the supernatural heights of The Untamed to the grounded emotional reality of Go Ahead, these years offered a diverse portfolio of stories that continue to be rewatched and celebrated today. If you are looking to dive into the world of C-dramas, starting with the hits from 2019 and 2020 is the best way to experience the very best that the industry has to offer. Happy watching!
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