"The Legend of Ruyi": A female legend in the depths of the court
As a costume court drama, "The Legend of Ruyi" attracted the attention of the audience in 2018 with its deep historical background and delicate character portrayal. The play is not only set in the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, but also shows the fate and struggle of women in the court through the complex and changeable marriage process between the protagonist Wulanala Ruyi and the Qianlong Emperor Aixin Jueluo Hongli.
Ruyi, played by Zhou Xun, was born in a Manchu aristocracy and received a strict court education since she was a child, with a gentle but tenacious personality. She and Emperor Qianlong's childhood sweetheart played by Huo Jianhua have experienced the emotional journey from acquaintance to loss together. Ruyi loved Qianlong deeply, and in order to maintain her love and status, she constantly sought balance in the palace struggle. However, Qianlong's amorous and fickle nature gradually caused a rift in their feelings, and Ruyi's love and status were threatened.
Emperor Qianlong, as the core of this play
The characters, he is handsome and talented, but emotionally complex and changeable. He has a deep affection for Ruyi, but at the same time it is difficult to resist the temptation of other palace maids. This contradictory personality not only makes Ruyi tormented, but also makes the audience have a mixed view of his emotions.
In addition to Ruyi and Qianlong, there are many other characters in the play who have their own characteristics. Hailan played by Zhang Junning, Wei Yanwan played by Li Chun, Jin Yuyan played by Xin Zhilei, etc., they all fought for their own interests in the court, showing the cruelty and ruthlessness of the palace struggle.
"The Legend of Ruyi" is not only fascinating in the plot, but also makes the audience feel as if they are in the court of the Qing Dynasty with its elegant and classic dialogues, restrained and superb acting skills, and unique makeup and costumes. The balance between realism and freehand, aesthetics and truthfulness pursued by director Wang Jun makes the play visually impressive.
"The Legend of Ruyi" is not just a court drama, it delves deeper into the state of existence and emotional struggles of women in the court. Ruyi's encounter allowed the audience to see the helplessness and tenacity of women in that era, and also triggered thinking about women's independence and freedom. It can be said that "The Legend of Ruyi" is not only a visual feast, but also a thought-provoking historical drama.