Limits Set on Lengthy Chinese Dramas

Chinese dramas are known for their lengthy format. Sometimes the storyline drags up to 60 episodes due to the pay being calculated per episode. Though some viewers don’t mind the lengthy dramas, many find it too tiresome to watch such long dramas with filler episodes that contribute nothing to the story. Recently, China’s National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) is considering setting new maximum limits of 40 episodes for dramas.

Sina Entertainment sought to confirm whether the news was true with online video sites and industry insiders, but both expressed that they have not received any official notice yet. However, two film and television industry executives have confirmed to the media that this strategy is aimed to cut down funding.

NRTA is also seeking advice from the industry to officially determine the number of episodes allowed. It is likely an official announcement will be released soon, since the administration responded that they are currently in discussion and will place restrictions.

Viewers’ sentiments towards the recent developments have been supportive, hoping that the new restrictions to lead to more compact storylines. Recent Chinese dramas that were unnecessarily lengthy include Novoland: Eagle Flag <九州缥缈录> with 56 episodes, while both Love and Destiny <宸汐缘> and Please Give Me A Pair Of Wings <请赐我一双翅膀> were 60 episodes. Among the dramas that aired in the last two years, one of the longest one was The Glory of The Tang Dynasty <大唐荣耀>, which consisted of 92 episodes that were split into two seasons.

Source: Sina

This article is written by Minna for JayneStars.com.

Responses

  1. Finally a decent restriction from China. Can’t really be a drama if it is a long drawn out, dragging series lasting months…

    1. @jimmyszeto hallelujah! Yes, I agree that this is the best restriction yet! So many drama would be so good if it wasn’t drawn out for draggy plot line, or to try make secondary leads famous!

      @terrycrews19 the first censorship – no more time travelling drama was because one of the wives of the high ranking complain to him about it lol! So it hasn’t changed since xD

    2. @jimmyszeto

      restricting obscenely high pay for idols who can’t act was another good move. the result has been more money spent on dramas with higher production values.

      1. @msxie0714
        They will probably find a way around the restricted filming salary. Maybe pay more through bonuses or even promotion fees or something along those lines

  2. NOOOOOO PLEASE don’t cut away Dilireba’s the pillow book!

    Damn it’s been delayed for so long this new restriction might affect it )))),=

  3. I always wonder how my mom can watch all those crazy long episodes and complains a bit but kinda still watching. haha lol…

  4. The only thing I’m afraid is now they will start doing season to combat this restriction. Looking at you, oh my emperor >_> now I hope they have something in place to combat this. Do not like draggy drama!

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