Qing Dynasty drama inspires cast, crew and industry insiders

"From a historical perspective, we depict the arrival of Western commercial civilization, backed by strong ships and powerful guns and, through the protagonist's eyes, witness a transformation unprecedented in China over the past 3,000 years," Zhang said.

"At a deeper level of historical reflection, the story explores what commercial civilization demands of a modern state: a highly developed legal system, free trade following national opening, and the capacity for cultural integration. None of these conditions could take place during the late Qing Dynasty," the director added.