Constructing a good story

The drama also features depictions of some real-life real estate tycoons. However, due to the difficulties of reaching and interviewing people of such high stature, Lan and her creative team had to find alternative sources, turning to biographical books of magnates like Pan Shiyi, cofounder of SOHO China, and Wang Shi, founder of China Vanke Co, for insights and inspiration.

Through the process of polishing the tale, the scriptwriter has gained a profound understanding of Chinese people's connection to property, which is deeply rooted in their culture and history.

Through interviews with many people who have made Beijing their home, despite some of them not having hukou (permanent residence registration), the scriptwriter says that she has found owning an apartment provides a sense of security, giving them the impetus to strive.

According to statistics from the China Television Artists Association and the Beijing Municipal Radio and Television Bureau, the drama, which concluded its first run earlier this month, surpassed all other TV dramas during its broadcast time and has accumulated 2.7 billion clicks on all related topics on major social platforms like Sina Weibo.

Contact the writer at xufan@chinadaily.com.cn