Season 1 • Episode 38
LatestJian Hongcheng, the son of a former factory director, returns to his hometown years after being forced out, determined to protect his late father’s legacy from being sold off by an untrustworthy relative. In the process, he reunites with his college love, Ning You, now divorced and revealed to be the daughter of a man connected to his family's past turmoil. Together, they navigate complex family conflicts, legal battles, and unresolved feelings, while confronting the challenges and realities of middle age.
Acting
Lei Jiayin and Yuan Quan's chemistry carries decades of longing.
Writing
A Nai's novel adaptation balances melodrama with genuine midlife melancholy.
Production
Factory-town nostalgia hits different if you know post-reform China.
Creator
A Nai
Lei Jiayin
Jian Hongcheng
Yuan Quan
Ning You
Zhang Yixing
Ning Shu
Jia Nailiang
Tian Jingye
Liang Guanhua
Zhang Lixin
Luo Haiqiong
Jian Minmin
Lian Shumei
Chen Xiner
Li Naiwen
Hao Qinglin
Sun Ning
Jian Hongtu
Yan Xiaopin
Ning Hui
Zhou Fang
Cai Lingxiao
Wang Churan
Cheng Kexin
Zhang Li
Luo Yigui
Shi Shi
Gu Weiwei
Wu Yitong
Zhang Jie
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The factory setting taps into collective nostalgia for China's iron rice bowl era, when state jobs meant lifetime security — and its collapse mirrors generational trauma for millions.
A Nai adapted her own novel, and originally insisted on Lei Jiayin despite him being considered too 'comedic' for melodrama — his casting redefined his career.
CN
