6.7 / 10 (based on 22 reviews)
TV mini-series telling the PRC’s official narrative of its involvement in the Korean War (1950-1953). It’s one of several films produced in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) (founded in July 1921).
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: C.T. / Gao Mingyu Evans, Thomas Fiquet, Temur Mamisashvili, Daniel Krauser
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1 season, 40 episodes
Shows Most Like Kua Guo Ya Lu Jiang (2020)
Diplomatic Situation (2019)
6.6 / 10 (based on 7 reviews)
The play begins with the birth of New China and ends with Deng Xiaoping’s visit to the United States and the return negotiations between China, Britain and Hong Kong. It mainly describes the outstanding contributions of Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, Deng Xiaoping and Chen Yi, the older generations of proletarian revolutionaries, to the diplomatic cause of New China. They are unique in their super-high diplomatic strategic thinking, flexible diplomatic skills. Diplomatic style and superhuman talent have won great honor and lofty international status for New China. The play fully shows a series of magnificent diplomatic facts such as the Geneva Conference, the Asia-Africa Conference, Zhou En’s visit to Africa and the resumption of UN seats. It also shows the difficult and tortuous course of New China’s diplomacy.
Genre: History
Main Cast: Scotty Bob Cox, John F. Cruz, Vincent Matile, Vladimir Chuprikov
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1 season, 42 episodes
Jue xing nian dai (2021)
8.1 / 10 (based on 154 reviews)
This series focuses on the period from New Culture Movement to birth of CCP, displays all attitudes of life during the awakening age.
Genre: Drama, History
Main Cast: Hewei Yu, Tong Zhang, Wanyi Zhang, Qiyue Ma
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Chen mo de zhen xiang (2020)
8.2 / 10 (based on 791 reviews)
In the story of The Long Night, the suspect discarded the body after his murder but was unexpectedly caught red-handed on the spot in broad daylight. There were at least hundreds of witnesses on the spot and the suspect confessed everything about the crime process. The testimony of witness, physical evidence, oral confession and chain of evidence were complete. While the procuratorate had public persecution of the suspect officially, the case changed suddenly. What stunning crime was hidden behind? To seek truth, a procurator spent ten years investigating this and it cost him youth, career, reputation, family and even his life.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Main Cast: Fan Liao, Yu Bai, Xiaolin Lü, Chao Niu
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1 season, 12 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
When discussing TV shows that have left a significant mark on viewers, “Kua Guo Ya Lu Jiang” (2020), also known as “Crossing the Yalu River,” often finds its way into the conversation. This Chinese drama, set against the backdrop of the Korean War, offers a unique perspective on the events and the people involved. Unlike the typical war dramas that focus solely on the battlefield’s chaos, this show delves deeper into the human spirit, resilience, and the complexities of war.
The Premise
At its core, “Crossing the Yalu River” tells the story of Chinese soldiers who volunteered to fight in the Korean War. It’s not just a narrative about war; it’s a story about sacrifice, brotherhood, and the struggle for peace. The show provides a detailed account of the historical events, combined with personal stories of the soldiers, making it a poignant exploration of the human condition amidst turmoil.
Historical Accuracy and Emotional Depth
One of the show’s most commendable aspects is its dedication to historical accuracy. The creators went to great lengths to ensure that the events depicted were as close to reality as possible. This dedication to authenticity is not just about getting the facts right; it’s about honoring the memory of those who lived through those times.
But “Crossing the Yalu River” is not a dry historical recount. Far from it. The show masterfully weaves emotional depth into the narrative, making the characters relatable and their experiences tangible. It’s one thing to read about the Korean War in a history book; it’s another to see the fear, hope, and determination in the eyes of those who were there. This emotional connection is what sets the show apart from other war dramas.
Character Development
The heart of any show is its characters, and this is where “Crossing the Yalu River” truly shines. The series focuses on a diverse group of soldiers, each with their own backstory, fears, and dreams. As the story unfolds, we see these characters grow, faced with the harsh realities of war. Their development is not just about becoming better soldiers but about understanding the value of life, friendship, and the cost of freedom.
For instance, there’s a young soldier who joined the war full of ideals and patriotism. As he experiences loss and the brutality of war, his perspective shifts. He starts questioning the meaning of sacrifice and the price of victory. This internal conflict and eventual growth add a layer of complexity to the character, making him more than just a soldier; he becomes a symbol of the human capacity for change.
The Impact of War on Individuals and Relationships
“Crossing the Yalu River” does an exceptional job of showing how war affects individuals and their relationships. It’s not just about the physical scars but the emotional and psychological ones as well. The show explores themes of loss, grief, and the struggle to maintain humanity in inhumane conditions.
One poignant storyline involves two best friends who are torn apart by the war. Their journey, filled with betrayal, forgiveness, and redemption, highlights the strain war places on personal relationships. It’s a reminder that the impact of war extends beyond the battlefield, affecting lives and altering destinies.
Cinematography and Production Values
The visual storytelling in “Crossing the Yalu River” deserves a special mention. The cinematography is nothing short of stunning, with each frame carefully crafted to convey the story’s mood and tone. From the vast, desolate battlefields to the intimate moments shared between characters, the visual aspect of the show plays a crucial role in storytelling.
Moreover, the production values are top-notch. The attention to detail, whether in the costumes, sets, or historical accuracy, adds a layer of authenticity to the show. It’s evident that a lot of thought and effort went into creating a visually compelling and historically accurate portrayal of the Korean War.
Why It Matters
So, why does “Crossing the Yalu River” matter? In a world where war dramas are often glorified or oversimplified, this show offers a nuanced perspective on the complexities of war. It’s a reminder of the human cost of conflict and the enduring spirit of those who face unimaginable challenges.
Moreover, the show’s focus on character development, historical accuracy, and emotional depth makes it a standout in the genre. It’s not just a war drama; it’s a study of humanity under the most extreme conditions.
In conclusion, “Crossing the Yalu River” is more than just a TV show; it’s a powerful narrative that explores the depths of human resilience and the complexities of war. Through its compelling characters, emotional storytelling, and stunning visuals, the show offers a unique perspective on the Korean War, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in history, human nature, and the art of storytelling.