2023 Top 10 Most Popular Micro-Series
Every One Worth Binge-Watching—Dive In Now
The Chinese domestic drama market has seen dramatic shifts recently: big-budget productions often flop, while low-budget micro-series are becoming increasingly polished and engaging.
Just like hits from the past couple of years such as Virtual Face, Endless Memories, and The Princess on Top, which achieved impressive popularity despite their modest scale, 2023’s micro-series have also delivered remarkable stories. Below are ten standout series that are all worth watching from start to finish.
NO.1: Escape from the British Museum
Starring: Jianbing, Xia Tian
This 18-minute short tells the story of a jade pot named “Chinese Tendril Pattern Thin-Bodied” that transforms into human form, overcomes numerous obstacles, and successfully returns home. The performances are fresh and natural, the story simple yet deeply touching, and best of all, it’s free to watch—no subscriptions required. It even received official praise from Chinese authorities. This series gives a voice to over 20,000 Chinese artifacts abroad—definitely deserving of a thumbs-up!
NO.2: Twenty-Nine
Starring: Yang Rong, Wang Yifei
A fast-paced, female-led drama, this short is compact yet explosive. Although the story is somewhat familiar, the two leads deliver performances full of intensity. From rivals to competitors to partners, every glance and gesture is packed with drama. The climax, where they team up to take down a scumbag, is incredibly satisfying.
NO.3: Snow in the Eastern Pavilion
Starring: Qi Xiaxia, Jin Chao
Directed by Zhi Zhu of Ancient Lovesongs, this series follows the ruthless palace maid Shen Yan assisting Prince Chu Ningyuan in a battle for succession and revenge. With stunning sets and cinematography, the limited runtime doesn’t compromise palace intrigue or martial arts action. The heroine’s character is compelling, and the ending avoids clichés—you can finish it in the time it takes to have lunch.
NO.4: Full-Funding on Set
Starring: Chen Tengyue, Qu Mengru
A quirky comedy about a wealthy dad who fully funds a film production to fulfill his “leading man” dreams, leading to a chaotic but hilarious journey on set. The series cleverly combines character traits with witty gags, breaking conventions with fresh humor and a dose of realism—it’s guaranteed to lift your mood.
NO.5: Winds and Moons
Starring: Lü Xiaoyu, Zhao Yiqin
A small, adorable “zombie” heroine falls for a proud, aloof human general. Their love-and-battle dynamic is fast-paced and heartwarming. The leads deliver stellar performances, with chemistry that practically bubbles on screen. The story even ties in with Virtual Face for a dreamy crossover, and the male lead’s profile shots are strikingly reminiscent of Bai Jingting.
NO.6: Entanglement
Starring: Li Muchen, Zhao Yiqin
A revenge-filled drama featuring a fake young master and a fake singer caught in an addictive push-and-pull. Though low-budget, every cent is used wisely: exquisite sets, beautiful lighting, and meticulously crafted 1920s-style costumes. Clever plot twists keep viewers on their toes, and both leads shine in both looks and acting—perfect for suspense fans.
NO.7: The Game
Starring: Yu Cheng’en, Li Junting
A seemingly simple card game among four scheming friends spirals into a bizarre murder case. With only ten minutes per episode, the series maintains tight pacing and suspense, gradually revealing the characters’ backstories for immersive storytelling. Every detail is worth careful attention.
NO.8: Four Seasons of Love
Starring: Hu Dandan, Lai Xilong
A playful short where a queen loses her memory after falling into water and believes she is the emperor. The male lead accompanies her through a charming identity-swap adventure. Gorgeous visuals, stunning makeup, strong performances, and witty interactions make it a refreshing alternative to formulaic romantic series, with just a touch of bittersweet moments.
NO.9: Locked Love Trilogy
Starring: Li Jiulin, Guan Chang
A cold, ruthless warlord and a quirky, spirited heiress navigate family feuds and gradually fall for each other, igniting a bittersweet romance. Set in the Republican era, the story is full of twists, including double amnesia and repeated love, keeping viewers hooked despite some familiar character tropes.
NO.10: Marriage Affairs
Starring: Qu Mengru, Fan Zhixin
A seemingly sweet marriage quickly turns suspenseful once the couple enters the “fortress” of domestic life. From the first episode, tension runs high. The male lead delivers a standout performance, seamlessly portraying a handsome, domineering CEO and a calculating antagonist, making this series absolutely worth watching.
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