Joy Of Life

Joy of Life is a popular Chinese TV drama series that aired from late 2019 to early 2020. Based on the book "Qing Yu Nian," written by famed Chinese author Maoni, this historical drama blends elements of various genres such as sneak peek politics, martial arts, comedy, and romance, delivering a well-rounded and riveting experience for its viewers.

The storyline revolves around the protagonist, Fan Xian, played by Zhang Ruoyun, who has a unique back story. The character is the illegitimate child of a revered noble family and inherits extraordinary martial arts skills from an unknown master. This unique background sets Fan Xian apart and provides the basis for many plot developments throughout the series.

As a young man, Fan Xian must navigate the intricate web that forms his life while also dealing with the challenges of the royal court. He is not just an ordinary teenager but a person who has been projected to be Earth's final hope against its cruel system and tyrants.

Raised within a secluded coastal town in utmost secrecy by his mysterious guardian, he seeks to unravel the truth about his past while being trained in physical and intellectual arts with the ultimate goal of resisting the country’s confining limitations. As sophisticated as the plot might be, the intricate storyline, vivid characters, and aesthetic presentation make this a thrilling series that keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats.

Apart from the unique narrative of the series, what surprisingly stands out in Joy of Life is the crafty fusion of traditional Chinese elements with a vision of modernity. The series impressively assimilates various traditional elements such as face reading, ancient Chinese martial arts, artistry, poetry, and calligraphy, thus forming a rich cultural backdrop that beautifully complements the storytelling. Further, it offers the perfect portrayal of the rich, lustrous world of ancient China, with an impressive production design that stays true to the essence and spirit of the time.

Moreover, the protagonists' growth from a simple boy to a mature, experienced man is beautifully shown in the series, a factor that arguably plays a significant role in the show's popularity. The audience gets to see Fan Xian evolve, making mistakes, learning from them, and growing as an individual, which offers an emotionally engaging element.

The series also flaunts an impressive ensemble cast. Chinese actor Zhang Ruoyun gave a standout performance as Fan Xian, showcasing a broad range of emotions and versatility in his portrayal. Raised in a peaceful environment unaware of his destiny, his desire for a simple and serene life often clashes with the chaos, conflicts, and conniving politics of the aristocratic life he gradually has to step into.

In conclusion, Joy of Life, with its unique concoction of engaging plotline, vivid character development, atmospheric visuals, and a fantastic cast, defines itself as a must-watch for anyone who enjoys historical dramas. Though based in the context of ancient China, the series deals with themes and emotions that are universally relatable - love, loss, ambition, resilience, and the undying human spirit's quest for freedom and justice. Whether you are a fan of historical dramas or looking to venture into this genre, Joy of Life is an excellent choice to dive into. With its vast and engaging narrative, every episode is a riveting journey into a world painted with strokes of historical intrigue and human resilience. This series promises an enthralling experience that will keep you hooked until the very end. It's not just a simple period drama; it's an in-depth exploration of society and its dynamics, making it an entertaining as well as enlightening watch.