Watch All Quiet in Peking

All Quiet in Peking is a Chinese television drama that was aired in 2014. This show is recognized as one of the most successful Chinese TV dramas of all time, receiving many critical acclaims and impressive viewership ratings. The story of All Quiet in Peking takes place in Peking (now Beijing) during the 1940s. It revolves around a group of Chinese intellectuals who are struggling to survive in the face of political and social turmoil.

The plot is set against the backdrop of the Japanese occupation of China, which began in 1937 with the Marco Polo Bridge Incident, and continued until the end of World War II in 1945. The drama also portrays the internal strife and power struggles of the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) and its Communist rival, setting the dramatic stage for the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949.

The plot follows an investigative reporter, Fang Zi-an (played by Ye Liu), who moves to Peking to work for a newspaper. He befriends a motley crew of characters, including Su Wenqian (played by Yinan Wang), a poet and former spy, and Chen Junsheng (played by Yang Yue), a university professor. The three friends find themselves in the midst of the dangerous and glitzy world of Peking's elite.

The show's narrative is split into several different stories, each one overlapping and connecting with the other, giving the viewers a sense of a coherent and multi-layered plot. Apart from the main characters, the other important characters include several artists, actors, and politicians who add to the drama and intrigue of this thrilling show.

All Quiet in Peking has an impressive production value, with stunningly realistic sets and costumes that vividly capture the aesthetic and mood of the time period. The show's cinematography is masterful, often showcasing Peking's beauty through a wide range of camera angles and techniques, adding to the show's overall success.

The show also does an excellent job of highlighting the social and cultural aspects of the time period. The characters are not just archetypes, but individuals with complex personalities and motives, each undergoing their respective arcs of growth and development.

Equally, the show also documents the harsh realities the Chinese people faced during the time of war and political instability. It shows how they had to deal with poverty, hunger, and violence not only from the invading forces but also from their fellow Chinese.

One of the highlights of the show is the acting performances. Ye Liu, Yinan Wang, and Yang Yue all give stellar performances, brilliantly bringing to life the struggles and emotions of their characters.

Overall, All Quiet in Peking is an excellent historical drama that provides an insightful and gripping portrayal of China during one of its most turbulent periods. The show is a must-watch for anyone interested in Chinese history, culture, and politics. It is an excellent example of multi-layered storytelling, with excellent production and acting, set amid a complex and fascinating time period.