C-dramas are continuing to make big waves in the South-East Asia region and IQIYI's latest offering "Linjiangxian (Feud)" starring Bai Lu and Zeng Shunxi is the latest tv series to win many hearts in this part of the world.
On June 15, the fantasy romance drama, hit a heat index of 10,000 on iQIYI, rapidly becoming a global phenomenon hailed as the "new benchmark for fantasy romance dramas."
It is also the first drama in the Asian streaming giant network that has hit the top benchmark this year.
The rising popularity also signifies that the drama's plot has reached an exciting and gripping climax, as the truth between heroes Li Qingyue and Bai Jiusi is fully unveiled, with their intertwined love and hatred leading towards an imminent decisive confrontation. Thus, this further showcases the powerful appeal of high-quality fantasy content in the international market.
Impressive Global Reception and Widespread Audience Acclaim
Since its premiere on June 6, "Feud" has consistently climbed in popularity, reaching over 6,000 on the heat index within just two hours of release, and surpassing 9,000 within 24 hours, demonstrating significant global appeal.
Currently holding a steady rating of 8.2 on MyDramaList, "Feud" has notably maintained the top position on iQIYI's platforms in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, South Korea, Japan, the United States, Canada, Australia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Mexico, as well as prominently in China's Taiwan and China's Hong Kong regions.
The simultaneous launch of Thai and Vietnamese dubbed versions on iQIYI has further fueled the show's explosive popularity and discussion by tv experts throughout South-East Asia.
Innovative Storytelling Ignites Global Discussions
Breaking away from traditional fantasy romance tropes, "Feud" captivates viewers with an innovative plot centered around "three marriages and three separations," creating a uniquely intense "love-hate" dynamic.
Discussions such as "the first fantasy drama centered solely around hate" and "intense plot pacing with no dull moments" have gone viral on social media.
Picture perfect Bai Lu's character Hua Ruyue and Joseph Zeng's Bai Jiusi are caught in intricate emotional entanglements, with multiple climactic scenes per episode propelling the storyline forward, igniting global viewers' enthusiasm.
Superb Performances Bring Fresh Character Perspectives
Bai Lu impressively tackles dual roles, masterfully portraying stark contrasts between innocence and complexity, receiving wide acclaim from viewers.
Joseph Zeng also breaks the mold of traditional fantasy leads, providing a nuanced portrayal of a character outwardly gentle yet inwardly conflicted.
Supporting cast members such as Chen Xinhai, Liang Yongqi, Zhao Qing, Pan Youcheng, and Dong Chunhui also deliver notable performances, garnering universal praise.
Excellent Blend of Eastern Aesthetics and Special Effects
Approximately 70% of "Feud" was filmed on location at Hengdian World Studios, beautifully integrating Lingnan architecture with traditional Eastern aesthetics to deliver an immersive visual experience.
Meticulously designed costumes, props, and sophisticated digital effects combine to create an enchanting fantasy world, deeply immersing viewers in its richly detailed setting.
As "Feud" continues to captivate audiences worldwide, iQIYI's upcoming new dramas "A Dream Within A Dream," starring Li Yitong and Liu Yuning, and the martial arts drama "The Journey of Legend," starring Cheng Yi are also expected to be big hits with South-East Asian and East Asia fans in time to come.
