8.5 / 10 (based on 12 reviews)
A story that follows Lin Xiao’s journey to establishing a career in the world of publishing and how she finds love at the same time.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Yuexi An, Haofeng Cheng, Zhaolin Xing, Yanmanzi Zhu
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8.3 / 10 (based on 2766 reviews)
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8.2 / 10 (based on 616 reviews)
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7.7 / 10 (based on 196 reviews)
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7.4 / 10 (based on 349 reviews)
Two people living on “parallel lines” were never meant to interact, but an unanticipated meeting transforms them into each other’s destiny.
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7.3 / 10 (based on 256 reviews)
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Blowing in the Wind (2019)
7.9 / 10 (based on 16 reviews)
A story of a group of young people with a joint love for mountaineering. University student, Lin Feng, hopes to bring back the glory days of the mountaineering club, she meets Xia Di who was a member of the previous mountaineering club. They both realize that they have similar hopes and dreams and that their both connected to a mountaineering incident that happened five years before.
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1 season, 14 episodes, 40.0-minute runtime
Midsummer Is Full of Love (2020)
7.4 / 10 (based on 66 reviews)
A rookie musician, Luo Tianran’s house was sold by her best friend . She wants her house back but ends up “co-inhabiting” with superstar Jin Zeyi. They’re forced into “marriage” and live together. A series of funny stories happened
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7.4 / 10 (based on 115 reviews)
When Meng Hui was a child, she was accidentally injured by Shen Yi, leaving a scar on her face and causing her a delusional disorder. Shen Yi escaped responsibility because of his young age, but both of them grew up with their own respective “scars.” One day, they came across each other again when Meng Hui, now a makeup artist, meets Shen Yi whom she thought was a junior staff of the cosmetics company LS, but in reality, is the president of the company.
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7.8 / 10 (based on 182 reviews)
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50.0-minute runtime
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8.2 / 10 (based on 586 reviews)
It follows the story of a girl named Jiang Jun who meets her close childhood friend, Ma Yuanshuai, in the workplace-this time, however, not as an ally but as a rival – Jiang Jun is an educated woman with a double degree in economics and psychology. Her parents liberal ways of raising her gave rise to her strong, independent, and idealistic character. After graduating from college, she begins to work for a non-profit organization to follow her dream of helping others. However, her father’s sudden death leaves her on a crucial crossroad in her life. She decides to join MH, a top investment company, to fulfill her father’s dying wish. Jiang Jun runs into her childhood friend Ma Yuanshuai, yet he’s different from the gentle and caring protector that she remembered him to be. He is now her rival at work. Furthermore, someone seems to be plotting against her and she must rely on her wits and will to succeed not just in her career, but also in love.
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Skate Into Love (2020)
7.9 / 10 (based on 552 reviews)
A speed skating girl crosses paths with the ice hockey god of their school.Despite starting off on the wrong foot,they start on a journey to chase after their dreams.As the two impassioned youths put on their skates,they glide into the unknown but exciting future ahead…
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1 season, 1 episode, 45.0-minute runtime
In the sprawling landscape of television, where genres collide and stories are as diverse as the audience watching them, “Standing in the Time” emerges as a refreshing narrative centered around the life of an aspiring fashion editor. This 2019 Chinese drama, without leaning heavily on the dramatic tropes that often saturate similar series, offers a glimpse into the professional and personal growth of its protagonist, Li Xin.
The Premise
At its core, “Standing in the Time” doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel. The show follows Li Xin, portrayed by An Yuexi, who, after graduating, aims to carve out a career in the competitive world of fashion editing. It’s a simple yet compelling premise, focusing on the challenges she faces and the growth she undergoes. What sets this series apart is its dedication to realism and character development, steering clear of the over-the-top drama often found in workplace-centric shows.
Character Growth and Development
One of the series’ strengths lies in its characters, especially Li Xin. From the outset, she’s relatable — not a flawless protagonist placed on a pedestal, but someone who makes mistakes, learns, and grows. This realistic portrayal of a young professional’s journey resonates with many viewers, particularly those at the start of their own careers.
Her interactions with Zhou Zi Xuan, played by Xing Zhao Lin, add depth to her character. Their relationship, which evolves from professional to personal, is depicted with a subtlety that’s often missing in romantic dramas. It’s not just about the romance; it’s about how these relationships influence their personal growth and professional journeys.
The Workplace Environment
“Standing in the Time” also shines a light on the fashion industry’s competitive nature. However, it does so without resorting to the cutthroat clichés commonly depicted in media. Instead, the series presents a balanced view, showing both the challenges and the rewarding moments of working in fashion. It’s not just about the glitz and glamour but also the hard work, dedication, and creativity required to succeed.
The series does an excellent job of depicting the dynamics within the workplace, including mentorship, competition, and friendship among colleagues. These relationships are portrayed realistically, adding another layer of relatability to the show. It’s refreshing to see a series that acknowledges the importance of professional networks and relationships in career advancement.
Avoiding Cliches
Where “Standing in the Time” really sets itself apart is in its avoidance of common clichés. Yes, there are obstacles and misunderstandings, as expected in any drama, but they’re handled with a maturity that’s often lacking in similar shows. The series focuses on communication and problem-solving, rather than letting misunderstandings spiral out of control for the sake of drama.
This approach not only makes for a more enjoyable viewing experience but also reinforces the show’s overarching theme of growth and development. By resolving conflicts in a mature manner, the characters demonstrate personal growth, which is a key aspect of the series.
Cultural Insights
For international viewers, “Standing in the Time” offers a glimpse into Chinese workplace culture, which may differ from their own experiences. This aspect of the show provides an educational element, allowing viewers to learn about another culture while enjoying the narrative. The series handles these cultural elements with care, presenting them as part of the story rather than exoticizing or stereotyping them.
Conclusion
In a television landscape filled with complex narratives and high-stakes drama, “Standing in the Time” offers a refreshing change of pace. Its focus on character development, realistic portrayal of the workplace, and avoidance of clichés make it a standout series. It’s a show that proves the power of simple storytelling, grounded in the realities of life and work.
For those seeking a series that combines the trials and triumphs of starting a career with the personal growth that comes from navigating those experiences, “Standing in the Time” is a must-watch. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most compelling stories are the ones that reflect our own realities, offering both a mirror and a window into the lives of others.