If you’ve hit pause on watching Chinese dramas (C-Dramas) this year, trust me—you’re not alone. We’ve all been there: starting off strong, only to fast-forward through episodes or abandon a show entirely because the plot lost its way and the director just… went with it.
But if you’re wondering how to get back into the groove, that’s exactly why I’m here. Consider this your official sign to rediscover the magic of C-Dramas—with a few standout recommendations to ease you in.
1. Fantasy Pick: A Dream Within a Dream
Starring: Liu Yu Ning & Li Yi Tong
Genre: Historical Fantasy / Xianxia | Episodes: 40
This drama is an absolute rollercoaster—and a hilarious one at that. A Dream Within a Dream will have you laughing out loud, so consider yourself warned: don’t watch it in public unless you want strange looks.
✔️ Plot – check
✔️ Costumes – check
✔️ Acting – check
✔️ Humour – triple check
Also, do not skip the OSTs—they’re incredible. And whatever you do, stick around for the credits in episode 40. You won’t regret it.
2. Modern Whimsy: Filter
Starring: Tan Jian Ci & Landy Li
Genre: Modern Romance / Comedy / Sci-Fi Fantasy
This one’s a genre-blender that actually works. Landy Li plays Su Cheng Cheng, a girl who gets a magical bracelet that allows her to change her appearance. Tan Jian Ci’s character, Tang Qi, falls for each version of her—without realizing they’re all the same person.
It’s sweet, chaotic, and unexpectedly emotional. And yes, completely unhinged in the best way. Just embrace the whackiness and let yourself laugh along the way.
3. Get into Harem Dramas
Harem C-Dramas are where the stakes (and the drama) are high. These usually center on a male lead caught in a whirlwind of romantic entanglements with multiple female characters—and the political intrigue is unmatched.
If you’re new to the genre, start with one of these:
• The Story of Ming Lan (a personal fave)
• Story of Yanxi Palace
• Empresses in the Palace
There’s love, rivalry, palace politics, betrayal—you name it. The right harem drama will have you hooked.
So don’t give up on C-Dramas just yet. The right one will remind you why you fell in love with them in the first place.
SOURCE: Elikplim Awuku
