According to Chinese media reports, Zhang Miaoyi has been cast as the female lead Cui Xiaoxiao in the historical fantasy drama. Cuo Shi Luwhere he will star alongside Ao Ruipeng. The project is widely seen as one of the most important opportunities in the actress’s career, potentially helping her rebuild her reputation following the disappointing reception of her 2023 film adaptation of Dream of the Red Room.
New promotional images from Cuo Shi Lu generated positive reactions from viewers, many of whom praised Zhang Miaoyi’s more mature and sophisticated appearance. Compared to her previous projects, the actress appears noticeably more refined, exuding a mysterious and elegant charm that has impressed fans and industry watchers alike. In the past, critics often described her images as relatively ordinary compared to those of other actresses starring in major romantic dramas. However, her latest style and growing screen presence have led many to believe that she has undergone a significant transformation.
Many entertainment observers point to Zhang Miaoyi’s decision to star in the 2023 film adaptation of Dream of the Red Room as the biggest setback of his career. At the time of filming she was only 18 years old and relatively inexperienced.
Taking on the role of Lin Daiyu, one of the most beloved and iconic female characters in Chinese literature, proved to be an enormous challenge. Critics argued that Zhang Miaoyi lacked the emotional depth needed to portray Lin Daiyu’s complex inner struggles, pain and vulnerability. Comparisons with Chen Xiaoxu’s legendary performance were inevitable. The backlash was severe, with some commentators even labeling her “the worst Lin Daiyu in history”, a nickname that followed her for years.
Before the controversy, Zhang Miaoyi had gained popularity through youth drama When I fly towards you. The series helped establish her as one of the promising young actresses of her generation. However, the failure of Dream of the Red Room significantly affected its momentum. He soon found himself wearing the label of a “costume drama disaster”, while his acting skills have come under increased scrutiny.
Over the next three years, Zhang Miaoyi struggled to regain the same level of popularity and found herself behind many of her contemporaries among the post-95 generation of Chinese actresses.
Instead of retreating from the spotlight, Zhang Miaoyi focused on self-improvement. He gradually refined his image, embraced a more fashionable style, and took on smaller projects and supporting roles in larger productions to gain experience and improve his craft. Industry observers have noted his determination to rebuild his career through steady growth rather than relying solely on high-profile lead roles.
Cuo Shi Lu is adapted from the novel Cuo Shi by author Kuang Shang Jia Kuang. The story follows Cui Xiaoxiao, a young woman who unexpectedly travels 200 years into the past. In that altered world, he meets a young man named Wei Jie. Due to a series of misunderstandings, Cui Xiaoxiao ends up taking his place on a path destined to lead to demonic corruption. Although the experience greatly increases her cultivation powers, she becomes feared and misunderstood by society. Despite hardships and prejudices, Xiaoxiao maintains her kind-hearted nature as she helps others and searches for a way to return to her own time.
As she grows closer to Wei Jie, she gradually comes to understand his desire for love and acceptance. Together, they ultimately choose to put aside conspiracies and conflicts to face the dark forces that threaten the world.
For Zhang Miaoyi, Cuo Shi Lu represents more than just an acting project. The drama could represent a career-defining opportunity to reshape public perceptions, demonstrate her growth as an actress and move beyond the criticism that has followed her ever since. Dream of the Red Room.
With audiences already praising its improved visuals and more mature screen presence, many are eager to see if this new chapter will mark the long-awaited return of one of China’s most talked-about young stars.
Sources: Znews
