Watch Queen Dugu

Queen Dugu is a 2019 Chinese historical drama that tells the story of the titular character, Dugu Qieluo. Chen Qiaoen stars as the queen while Chen Xiao plays her husband Yang Jian, who would later become the founder of the Sui dynasty. The show begins with a young Dugu Qieluo, who is known for her exceptional beauty and intelligence. She catches the eye of Emperor Wen and becomes his concubine. However, she is forced to leave the palace and enter a political marriage with Yang Jian when Emperor Wen dies.

Despite not initially being in love, Dugu Qieluo and Yang Jian eventually grow to care for one another deeply and make a powerful team. Dugu Qieluo uses her intelligence and political acumen to help her husband rise to power while also protecting their family from those who wish to harm them.

Throughout the show, Dugu Qieluo faces challenges both within the palace and outside of it. She must navigate the treacherous court politics and deal with competing factions who seek to gain power. As she grows older, she also has to contend with the effects of time on her beauty, and the impact it has on her relationships.

One of the greatest strengths of Queen Dugu is its portrayal of the titular character. Dugu Qieluo is a highly capable and intelligent woman who is able to hold her own in a male-dominated society. She is shown to have agency and autonomy, making decisions and taking actions that have a real impact on the story. This is all the more impressive given the historical context of the show, which is set in a time when women had limited rights and opportunities.

At the same time, Queen Dugu does not shy away from the harsh realities of life in the imperial court. There is a strong focus on the political machinations and backstabbing that were common in such circles. The show depicts the toll that this environment takes on its characters, both physically and emotionally.

In addition to its strong writing and characterization, Queen Dugu boasts impressive production values. The costumes and sets are richly detailed, creating a vivid and immersive world for the audience to inhabit. The show also has a strong musical score that helps to heighten the drama and emotion of key scenes.

Overall, Queen Dugu is a highly engaging and well-crafted historical drama that offers a fresh and nuanced portrayal of its central character. Chen Qiaoen gives a standout performance as the queen, portraying her with intelligence, grace, and strength. Meanwhile, Chen Xiao is equally impressive as her husband, Yang Jian, bringing a depth and complexity to what could have been a more one-dimensional role. Fans of historical dramas and strong female characters will find much to enjoy in Queen Dugu.

Queen Dugu is a series that ran for 1 seasons (60 episodes) between February 10, 2019 and on NewTV