Searching for answers to the riddles of history

The animations also borrow from abstract expressions in traditional paintings to create the right atmosphere. "Animations can help people relate to certain things better because they create room for imagination," he emphasizes.

Li concedes that bringing celebrities to the show was necessary for an extra edge. "We could not entirely rely on expert narration to finish this program," he says. "It needed a breakthrough to go beyond pure documentary. The old way is more secure, but we cannot always stick to it. Creativity can bring a bigger group of people into the world of cultural relics."

Regardless of the means used, historical and academic accuracy have remained the show's foundation.

According to co-producer Deng Ruiling, 62 archaeologists, historians, scientists and other experts from 37 institutions were interviewed for the show, and 32 finally appeared in the episodes.

"We had to read reams of academic papers before we spoke to the experts," Deng says, recalling the tough eight months that went into preparing for the show. "We proposed ideas and revised them based on expert opinion. We revised lines again and again, some as many as 15 times."

There were several sentimental moments that were not scripted though. Cui Yong, the Nanhai No 1 project leader and a first-generation Chinese underwater archaeologist who is due to retire soon, could not hide his emotions when he told Chen how lucky he was to dedicate his entire career to unraveling mysteries of the shipwreck.

"A lifetime on a ship. Everyone at the production was so deeply touched," Deng says. "When stories of pure dedication are told in plain words, you can feel the surge of emotions inside you."

Although the target audience of the show is the young generation, it has won applause from veterans and professionals alike. "The theme of history and mystery has resonated with the masses, particularly because of the Q&A," comments Lu Qiong, an official with the National Cultural Heritage Administration.

"The views are well-balanced in the show. It encourages people from various walks of life to promote our cultural heritage. That is how the influence of ancient Chinese civilization can be broadened," Lu adds.