In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of domestically produced urban dramas in China. However, this growth has also raised questions about their creative standards and thematic portrayals among some viewers.

Among these dramas, "As Long As We Are Together" has garnered considerable attention. However, its storyline has been criticized for being unrealistic and detached from the lives of the poor, sparking controversy.

Viewers generally believe that the drama presents overly exaggerated and fictional plots, failing to reflect the true realities of the lower strata of society.

This article aims to analyze the current state of Chinese urban dramas from multiple perspectives and delve into why "As Long As We Are Together" has generated such controversy.

The Disconnect Between Exaggerated Plots and the Lives of the Poor

In "As Long As We Are Together," the protagonist's portrayal of a "poor" life is depicted in an exaggerated and fantastical manner, greatly deviating from the real lives of ordinary poor individuals.

The excessively flamboyant plot elements such as lavish parties, dazzling costumes, and the setting of luxury cars and mansions are far removed from the audience's perception of "poor" living conditions.

This exaggeration not only strips the storyline of authenticity but also raises doubts about the screenwriter's understanding of the lower strata of society.

Wealth Anxiety and Avoidance of Social Issues

The drama predominantly focuses on "exaggeration" and "melodrama," plunging the entire plot into an illusory realm of wealth anxiety.

However, this anxiety is primarily manifested as an excessive pursuit of material possessions rather than genuine concern for social issues. Chinese urban dramas often shy away from addressing real social problems and instead prefer to attract viewers through fictional means. As a result, these dramas provide limited opportunities for profound social reflection while primarily serving as entertainment.

Lack of Authentic Character Portrayals

The failure of the screenwriter to tackle the essence of social issues results in a lack of authenticity in character portrayals in the drama.

Viewers find it difficult to find resonance with the protagonist's words and actions that align with their own lives. A genuine portrayal of a "poor" character should be ordinary and realistic, rather than excessively flashy and exaggerated.

In "As Long As We Are Together," the excessive packaging of characters makes them resemble fashion models on a runway rather than ordinary people existing within the lower strata of society.

The Dual Problems of Themes and Creative Standards

Chinese urban dramas face certain issues in terms of theme selection and creative standards. Moreover, they often employ overly exaggerated and fictional techniques in expressions and narrative structures, leading to audience fatigue.

Reflection and Prospects

The criticism of "As Long As We Are Together" by viewers is, in fact, a reflection on the general state of Chinese urban dramas. These dramas need to pay more attention to the genuine lives of the lower strata of society, focus on character development, and ensure the rationality of the plot. Besides commercial considerations, they should also emphasize social responsibility and use their works to stimulate audience reflection on social issues. At the same time, efforts should be made to improve the skills of screenwriters and avoid falling into the trap of exaggerated plots and flamboyant characters.

In the future, Chinese urban dramas are expected to break free from commercial constraints through deeper social observations and authentic storytelling, creating works that possess depth and intellectual value.

Only through such efforts can Chinese urban dramas establish a more positive image in the minds of the audience and contribute more beneficially to the development of Chinese television dramas.