The main plot of the drama was about Chen Zhen Zhu (沈珍珠)(played by Tian Jing)(景甜) who actually existed during the later part of the Tang Dynasty. She is a most interesting character as she was the ONLY EMPRESS in Chinese history who had gone missing! Reputed to be stunningly beautiful and intelligent and was well loved by her husband, Prince Li Chu, who later became the 8th Emperor of the Tang Dynasty. Chen Zhen Zhu, however, fell into rebel hands, twice, when the capital was sacked and it was during the second captivity that she disappeared from history. Her husband, who later became emperor, did not forget her though. For sixteen years, the new emperor made no woman his empress. (He did have other concubines of course to produce heirs). Later, when their son became the ninth emperor, the title of Empress was conferred to her in absence. (somewhat like Ines of Portugal)
The drama was divided into two parts and was probably the best of the recent "history" dramas produced. Of course, for sake of entertainment, there are parts dramatized. Still, the main events followed historical facts and were not exaggerated out of proportion, like many others. The only part which was not that realistic was the war-scenes, which was understandable, given the budget of production.
Tian Jing (she also appeared also in Kong-Skull Island, in a minor role), who played Chen Zhen-zhu was breathtakingly beautiful. And her character, kind and ready to sacrifice herself for the benefit of the empire, won the hearts of those who watched the drama.
The drama is now being hailed as one the best in recent years (and many viewers admitted that they cried their hearts out after watching). Tian Jing also received high acclaim for her acting (which previously, was jeered at) and her popularity in China suddenly surged.
A highly recommended work for those who are interested in learning about later Tang Dynasty (after the era of Yang Qui-fei).
8 out of 9 found this helpful