After years of anticipation, renowned director Wong Kar-wai's first TV series, "Blossoms Shanghai," has finally premiered. I binge-watched the first four episodes in the Shanghai dialect and couldn't help but exclaim, "Blossoms Shanghai is a captivating world." The series begins with a contrasting and dramatic scene: on one hand, there are lively New Year celebrations, laughter, and fireworks; on the other hand, a car accident and a flurry of banknotes, leaving the fate of Mr. Bao uncertain.

Unlike typical linear narratives, "Blossoms Shanghai" employs numerous transitions and flashbacks to lay the groundwork for various storylines, creating a vivid portrayal of life in a dynamic era. For example, the first episode ends with the question of who collided with Mr. Bao, while the second episode leaves us wondering how Commander Cai will settle the score. The multi-threaded storytelling maintains a fast-paced and concise plot, with a wealth of information, intertwined clues, intricate character relationships, evolving backgrounds, and internal struggles, all contributing to the exhilarating viewing experience of this series.

For instance, seemingly mundane scenes depicting daily life and meals are filled with the vibrant atmosphere of the city streets, serving as emotional transitions. This subtle and understated approach adds charm and captivates the audience. As renowned author Mao Jian once said, no one is better suited than Wong Kar-wai to create an audiovisual adaptation of "Blossoms Shanghai" that vividly captures the essence of the era depicted in the original novel.

In terms of narrative transparency and pacing, "Blossoms Shanghai" diverges from Wong Kar-wai's signature style, aiming for clear and engaging storytelling, heightened tension, while still retaining the director's visual flair. Many viewers have marveled at the seamless camera work in the series.

The aesthetics of "Blossoms Shanghai" are evident throughout the series, reflecting meticulous attention to clothing, styling, and taste. This aesthetic, fashion sense, and taste are exemplified in Ye Shu's transformation of A Bao into the iconic figure of Mr. Bao in Shanghai. From the discussions between Ling Zi and Ling Hong about pearl earrings—"Jewelry is like a man, it shouldn't settle for less"—to the meticulous packaging of Mr. Bao, from the luxurious suites of the Peace Hotel to the impeccably tailored suits and flawless hairstyles.

The cinematography skillfully portrays the characters' expressions through subtle changes in lighting and shadows, demonstrating a careful composition that includes symmetry and frame-within-a-frame techniques. Some ordinary viewers might simply perceive the play of light and shadows as creating a mysterious and sophisticated atmosphere for both men and women. The female characters are not only intelligent and capable but also possess a unique charm, with alluring fragrances, graceful voices, tall figures, and captivating eyes.

The verbal sparring between Ling Zi and Mr. Bao during multiple encounters, be it over lunch, dinner, or tea, reveals their dynamic relationship. Ling Zi, despite having prepared tea for Mr. Bao, cleverly turns around and lets him reach for it, only to find it empty, forcing him to pour a fresh cup himself. Ma Yi Li not only delivers flavorful dialogue but also masterfully portrays the nuances of language, expressions, and various subtle physical movements, bringing Ling Zi to life as a smart and adorable woman.

Miss Wang, who works in the foreign trade building, represents the archetype of the first generation of professional women. She is outspoken, genuine, principled, and fearless, with a compelling character arc that unfolds gradually. After Mr. Bao's car accident, Huanghe Road becomes filled with legends about him. In the first four episodes, Li Li's main objective is to bring Mr. Bao to Zhi Zhen Garden for a business negotiation.

Li Li's "parachute" landing on Huanghe Road showcases her exceptional intellect. One particularly satisfying detail is how she manipulates the manager and promotes a hostess, emphasizing to the waitstaff that it's not buttons but their brains that bring in money. Furthermore, she cleverly obtains information about a mysterious product through a cleaning lady, using a 200 yuan tip as a catalyst.

These various methods, big and small, demonstrate her expertise in both external and internal affairs, whether it's business or management. She navigates between Mr. Bao and the others, judging the situation, maneuvering and shifting, to benefit Zhi Zhen Garden. With great enthusiasm and achieved results, Mr. Bao always seems relaxed, strategizing to ultimately secure a low price, open up the market on Huanghe Road, and gain fame.

The business battle in the first four episodes of "Blossoms Shanghai" is actually an all-win scenario. At first glance, the characters in "Blossoms Shanghai" appear like revolving lanterns, making it difficult to pinpoint and dazzling to the eyes. These vividly portrayed characters leave a striking impression, and each character feels authentic and lifelike.

Other characters, such as [character's name], initially appear as inconspicuous figures but are actually the pioneers of domestic products in the 1990s. He always wears a simple smile but is observant and shrewd, a cunning old fox. This character is full of humor and doesn't become tiresome. As always, Wong Kar-wai has a unique taste in visuals and music, which perfectly captures the impression of Shanghai entrepreneurs in that era, always maintaining a sense of trend.

The third layer consists of the subtle arrangement of colors, details, capturing the essence of objects, people, spaces, and smells. They converge to weave the intricate threads of the story. Mr. Bao, [character's name], and others, each with their distinct characteristics, are destined to have complex stories unfold within the torrent of the era, with conflicts that deeply resonate and entanglements on both the romantic and business fronts.

"Blossoms Shanghai" appears to be about food and love on the surface, but it encompasses the changes of the times. While watching, countless times it feels like we have returned to that future full of infinite hope, a time brimming with passion, positivity, and everyone having the opportunity to showcase their talents.

Everyone is excited, with a sense of drive and anticipation.

The fervor in "Blossoms Shanghai" carries our vibrant imagination of the future. It has a rich flavor, accompanying us through the New Year, allowing us to savor it slowly.