2024 Micro-Series Top 10
With the rise of micro-series on digital platforms, 2024 has ushered in a wave of innovative and captivating short dramas. These compact yet intricately plotted works have not only transformed the traditional viewing experience but also showcased remarkable artistic charm and creativity within their concise narratives. From romance and fantasy to social dramas, micro-series have attracted massive attention and discussion thanks to their diversity and convenience. In this world of seemingly brief yet infinitely possible stories, let’s explore the Top 10 Hottest Micro-Series of 2024, and see how many you’ve watched—and which ones left an unforgettable impression.
NO.1: I Became a Stepmother in the 1980s
Through the brilliant performances of Teng Zewen and Su Yuohe, this series tells a love story that transcends time. Set against the nostalgic backdrop of the 1980s, Teng Zewen’s character, Si Nian, and Su Yuohe’s Zhou Yue deeply charm viewers with their sweet romance and clever domestic rivalry. The series not only successfully recreates the lifestyle and ambiance of the 1980s but also highlights the independence and resilience of modern women, making it a hit that perfectly blends elements of time-travel, romance, and household intrigue.
NO.2: Ode to Chaoge
With outstanding performances by Hu Yiyao, Li Fei, and Lin Zehui, this series immerses viewers in an ancient palace tale filled with revenge and forbidden love. Hu Yiyao portrays Empress Dowager Su Chaoge, who, driven by vengeance, embarks on a passionate yet perilous entanglement with Emperor Xiao Zhi, played by Lin Zehui. The drama captivates audiences with its gripping plot, profound character development, and intense atmosphere, making it a must-watch palace epic.
NO.3: The Young Mistress
Through the brilliant performances of Jin Meichen and Chen Junyu, this series tells the story of a modern martial arts actress who travels back in time and becomes a young widow in ancient China. The drama combines entertaining time-travel elements with heartwarming family moments and clever management strategies, showcasing the heroine’s intelligence and resilience. Viewers not only enjoy the laughter brought by this historical comedy but also feel the deep familial bonds and the protagonist’s love for life.
Featuring the performances of Xu Qingya and He Congrui, this series unfolds a love story intertwined with secrets and a pair of twins. Through the tale of parents unexpectedly reunited and their adorable children, the drama highlights the warmth of family and the power of love. Amidst the tense and engaging plot, viewers can also feel deep familial bonds and experience the warmth and sweetness of love.
NO.5: Oh No, Her Majesty the Empress Comes to Work
Starring Sun Yue and Xu Yizhen, this female-led historical-to-modern comedy captivates viewers with its unique premise and lighthearted, humorous storyline. In the series, Empress Rong Dai travels from the imperial palace to the modern world, embarking on a journey of reinvention from palace intrigue to contemporary high society. The drama delivers plenty of laughs while showcasing the heroine’s intelligence and courage.
NO.6: Entanglement
With outstanding performances by Li Muchen and Zhao Yiqin, this series vividly presents a suspenseful romance under the guise of false identities. Skillfully blending elements of mystery and love, it follows a pair of protagonists brought together by deception, unfolding a series of stories filled with passion and intrigue. Amid espionage and dangerous schemes, the two not only face external threats but also experience a transformation in their relationship—from mutual manipulation to genuine love—captivating the audience throughout.
NO.7: Winds and Moons
With brilliant performances by Lü Xiaoyu and Zhao Yiqin, this series tells a deeply emotional story of a couple navigating a fantastical adventure. Set against a unique fantasy backdrop, the drama highlights the partners’ mutual support and growth as they face unexpected crises together. Throughout their journey to unravel mysteries, their love deepens, offering viewers profound insights into trust, support, and enduring partnership.
NO.8: After a Flash Marriage, Mr. Fu’s Secret Identity Can’t Stay Hidden
Starting with an unexpected flash marriage, this series unfolds a sweet and heartwarming love story. The drama not only follows the romantic “marriage first, love later” trope but also cleverly reveals Mr. Fu’s hidden identity, adding playful intrigue to the plot. The lead actors’ excellent performances vividly bring their characters’ personalities and emotional journeys to life, offering viewers a marriage story that is both tender and full of challenges.
NO.9: Snow in the Eastern Pavilion
Starring Jin Chao and Qi Xiaxia, this series presents a tale of love and hatred intertwined within palace intrigue. Through the complex relationship between Shen Yan and Chu Ningyuan and their pursuit of power, the drama exposes the darker side of court life and the intricacies of human nature. Although the plot may feel somewhat familiar, the compelling performances and tense storytelling make this tumultuous palace romance unforgettable for viewers.
NO.10: The Reason I Returned to Seventeen
Through the brilliant performances of Zhang Miaoyi and Fang Xiaodong, this series tells a youthful, fantastical, and heartwarming story. With its unique fantasy setting and fresh narrative style, viewers follow the heroine as she returns to her teenage years, experiencing the sweetness and beauty of first love. During her journey back to seventeen, Zhong Xiaoxiao not only regains her lost youth but also discovers love and self-discovery, delivering endless warmth and emotion to the audience.
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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