Chinese Entertainment News
“The Great Night Watchman” Premieres: Dylan Wang Stars in a Cast of Familiar Faces
Chinese costume dramas have long stood shoulder-to-shoulder with urban dramas in the domestic TV market, thanks to their diverse subgenres, which often become massive hits. Whether it’s martial arts dramas like Mysterious Lotus Casebook, xianxia (fantasy) dramas like Destined with You, or niche political intrigue series such as Joy of Life, costume dramas continue to dominate screens and hearts alike.
Amid the flourishing variety of costume dramas, one subgenre has been notably quiet in recent years—costume comedies. Beyond the classic My Own Swordsman, recent attempts at costume comedies, like Legend of Queqiao Gate and Four Corners Inn, have struggled to leave a lasting impression.
Audiences eager for a quality costume comedy have faced slim pickings, but there’s reason for optimism. Enter “The Great Night Watchman” (大奉打更人), a new costume comedy slated to air in Jiangsu TV’s Happiness Theater lineup for late 2024 to early 2025. Boasting a lighthearted tone, vivid characters, and a star-studded cast, the show promises to reinvigorate the costume comedy genre and bring fresh excitement to audiences.
A Dual Narrative: Comedy Meets Crime and Conspiracy
“The Great Night Watchman” follows the story of Yang Ling (played by Dylan Wang), a modern-day office worker who unexpectedly finds himself transported to the Dafeng Dynasty. There, he becomes a night watchman named Xu Qian, responsible for solving mysteries and maintaining order.
Armed with modern knowledge and quick wit, Xu Qian solves complex cases while navigating the dangerous and intrigue-filled world of the royal court. Together with a band of like-minded allies, he seeks justice and challenges authority in this fantastical, perilous setting.
Two Standout Features
- A Protagonist “With Cheat Codes” Balancing Mystery and Comedy
Comedy is a versatile genre that thrives in combination with others, and “The Great Night Watchman” masterfully blends comedy with fantasy, mystery, and political drama.In the series, Xu Qian transitions from a laid-back life of music and drinks to the demanding responsibilities of a night watchman. His duties range from investigating crimes to monitoring officials and gathering intelligence. Using knowledge from his modern life, he cracks cases and builds connections while navigating the dynamics of power with humor and ingenuity.
The brilliance of the plot lies in its seamless fusion of fantastical elements, crime-solving, and political scheming—all underpinned by its comedic core. The protagonist’s unconventional methods and “modern cheat codes” make his journey entertaining and logical, rather than absurd.
- A Struggle for Justice from a Small Character’s Perspective
While primarily a comedy, the series carries weightier themes. Beneath the surface of Dafeng Dynasty’s seemingly peaceful facade lies a kingdom fraught with danger, manipulation, and hidden agendas.As an ordinary man thrust into a treacherous world, Xu Qian represents the “small characters” often swept up in the power plays of the mighty. Despite his playful demeanor, he has a strong moral compass and unyielding determination to protect the innocent.
His confrontations with authority—sometimes comical, sometimes deeply emotional—add layers to the narrative, presenting a blend of humor and poignancy. Director Deng Ke, known for his well-received works My Heroic Husband and Destined with You, expertly balances these elements, ensuring the story is both dynamic and emotionally resonant.
A Star-Studded Cast of Familiar Faces
The show’s stellar lineup of actors ensures it is poised for success, with many cast members bringing extensive experience and fan followings to the project.
Dylan Wang as Xu Qian
Dylan Wang, who gained fame for his role as Dongfang Qingcang in Love Between Fairy and Devil, returns to the costume drama genre in “The Great Night Watchman.” While his modern drama performance in Only for Love faced mixed reviews, this series places him firmly back in his comfort zone, blending sharp wit, charm, and an element of rebellion.
Wang’s portrayal of Xu Qian is already generating buzz, with the trailer showcasing him as resourceful, bold, and deeply principled. Whether bantering with friends or standing firm against the emperor, Wang’s performance radiates charisma.
Liu Yijun as Wei Yuan
Liu Yijun, a seasoned actor known for iconic roles in Nirvana in Fire and Reset, plays Wei Yuan, the commanding officer of the night watchmen and head of the Inspectorate. His reputation for portraying characters with gravitas and complexity makes him an ideal fit for the role.
In the trailer, Wei Yuan exudes authority and calm, acting as a key figure in the protagonist’s journey. Liu’s nuanced performance ensures that this mentor-like character will captivate audiences.
Liu Jun as the Emperor
Liu Jun, familiar to viewers from The Story of Minglan and Southward Journey, steps into the role of the Dafeng Emperor. As a cunning ruler with a penchant for manipulation, his character embodies both ambition and paranoia.
The trailer hints at a formidable presence, with scenes of the emperor practicing archery, issuing decrees, and reacting to Xu Qian’s audacity with a mix of disdain and intrigue. Liu’s portrayal promises to add depth to the courtly power dynamics.
Tian Xiwei as Princess Lin’an
Tian Xiwei, adored for her sweet and lively roles in New Life Begins and Pastoral Diary, takes on a more extravagant persona as Princess Lin’an. Her vibrant, elaborate costumes complement her energetic performance, which captures the princess’s innocence and playful personality.
Fans are eager to see how Tian’s portrayal of Lin’an adds levity and charm to the series, creating memorable moments alongside Dylan Wang’s Xu Qian.
Other notable cast members include Li Hongtao, Ni Hongjie, and Chen Xiaoyun, each bringing their acting prowess to enrich the ensemble. With such a robust lineup, the show has the talent needed to bring its multi-layered narrative to life.
Comedy with Depth and Nuance
While “The Great Night Watchman” incorporates elements of lightheartedness and humor, it also offers sophistication and emotional resonance. The series avoids the pitfall of many comedic adaptations by keeping its humor grounded and its characters authentic.
Rather than simply riding on the appeal of Xu Qian’s “modern-day cheat codes,” the story dives into meaningful themes of power, justice, and resilience. His refusal to be crushed by the system, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds, reflects universal struggles that resonate deeply with audiences.
The show’s rich tapestry of genres, from fantasy to political intrigue, and its well-crafted script ensure a layered experience that transcends simple entertainment. Director Deng Ke’s skillful handling of such diverse elements gives the production a distinct edge, making it one of the most anticipated costume dramas on the horizon.
A Potential Breakthrough for Costume Comedy
With a clever blend of comedy, mystery, and political intrigue, “The Great Night Watchman” promises to break the mold for costume comedies in Chinese drama. By combining a lighthearted tone with meaningful themes and a compelling narrative, it sets itself apart from typical “feel-good” series.
The cast’s impeccable performances, coupled with the meticulous direction and production, suggest that the show will captivate both fans of the genre and newcomers alike. If executed well, “The Great Night Watchman” could set a new benchmark for costume dramas and breathe fresh life into the long-neglected genre of costume comedy.
Audiences eagerly await its release, and with its star power and narrative depth, it just might become the next big hit in Chinese television.