TV series captivates audiences with financial drama and human intrigue

During a recent seminar in Beijing on May 16, it was revealed that City of the City, adapted from Teng Xiaolan's award-winning novel, has surged in popularity, amassing an impressive 346 million views in April, making it one of the most-watched TV series of the month.

The series, set against the backdrop of China's financial reforms in 2018, follows the journey of Tao Wuji, a determined young man from a small town, as he secures a position as a teller at a bank in Lujiazui, Shanghai's bustling financial hub. Alongside his girlfriend, also a professional in the financial industry, Tao navigates a world brimming with opportunities, earning accolades from high-ranking executives for his dedication and talent.

Starring Bai Yufan, Yu Hewei, Xia Meng, and Yang Zishan, the series premiered on CCTV-1 and iQiyi on April 9, captivating audiences with its compelling narrative. Luo Yi, deputy director of the Shanghai Radio and Television Administration, highlighted the rarity of the show's focus on financial reforms and the intergenerational dynamics within the industry.

Yang Bei, senior vice-president of iQiyi, shared that City of the City quickly climbed the ranks on the streaming platform, generating over 40 million real-time comments as viewers engaged with the storyline.

Director Teng Huatao's meticulous approach to storytelling, blending professional insights into the financial sector with relatable human drama, has been pivotal to the series' success. By exploring the choices and dilemmas faced by financial professionals in a transformative era, the show underscores the vital role of finance in the real economy, resonating with audiences on a profound level.