CAST: Dilraba Dilmurat, Gong Jun, Liu Yu Ning
DIRECTOR: Gary Sing, Jones Ma, and Jason So.
In the magnificent realm of the Great Jing, its powerful foundations were laid by two legendary family dynasties, the esteemed Han and the renowned Di. However, the kingdom’s harmony was shattered by a grave accusation of treason against the Di family, leading to a brutal crackdown that nearly wiped them out entirely. Miraculously, one sole survivor remained – a young girl named Di Zi Yuan, played by the talented Dilraba Dilmurat. Sadly, her fate seemed sealed as she was imprisoned in a remote location, and the once-proud lineage of the Di was believed to have met its end.
A decade later, Han Ye (portrayed by Gong Jun), the principled Crown Prince of the realm, was determined to rewrite history by rescuing the last surviving member of the Di family. During his quest, he encountered an audacious and strong-willed female pirate named Ren Anle, who unexpectedly declared her intention to marry him. Curiously, whispers began to circulate, suggesting that Ren Anle might actually be none other than Di Zi Yuan in disguise.
As the story unfolds, Ren Anle and the prince forge a deep and affectionate bond, united in their mission to save the kingdom from the nefarious plots and corrupt ambitions of rival members within the Han family. Nevertheless, complications arise when another woman appears in the realm’s capital, also claiming to be Di Zi Yuan. This bewildering turn of events confounds the young prince, raising doubts about the true identity of the surviving Di.
Amidst the turmoil, the quest for justice for her disgraced family becomes the driving force for the real Di Zi Yuan. Will she finally attain the vindication her family deserves? Moreover, as the bond between the prince and Ren Anle deepens, could it blossom into a love that defies time?
In this tale of intrigue, courage, and loyalty, “The Great Jing” weaves a captivating narrative of self-discovery, true identity, and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity.
Dilraba is a delight to watch as she oscillates between the pirate persona and a warrior mode.
In her illustrious career, Dilraba Dilmurat has often portrayed demi goddesses and warrior princesses. However, in this latest series, she ventures into something refreshingly different – a screwball romantic comedy. Embracing her role as Anle, she exudes a delightful sense of glee and mischief, relishing every chance to flirt and playfully tease Gong Jun’s prince character. Amid his growing discomfort, he can’t shake the feeling that she’s concealing a bigger and more intricate game, making him wary and intrigued at the same time.
During the early episodes, Anle accepts the court position of Chief Justice as part of a test designed to trip her up. Yet, to everyone’s surprise, she pretends to be clueless while effortlessly solving crimes and taking down murderers with a flair that could fill an entire series about her fighting crime alone! It’s truly a rarity to witness the female lead of a Chinese historical drama having so much fun, and her infectious spirit keeps viewers charmed and entertained.
Of course, glimpses of later episodes in the end credits hint at a shift towards more serious and poignant events as they enter into war, and the specter of loss and tragedy looms. However, for now, let’s revel in the joyous moments of this romantic comedy, savoring the chemistry between the lead characters and relishing the lighthearted moments they share.
As the series progresses, viewers are likely to be taken on an emotional rollercoaster, but for the present, let’s cherish the effervescent charm and wit of Dilraba Dilmurat as she brings her unique touch to the world of historical drama, adding a delightful twist to the genre with her captivating performance as Anle.
Highly recommended. This series streams on Youku and Viki