The latest C-drama release The White Olive Tree is gaining popularity in China.
The White Olive Tree tells the story of Li Zan (Chen Zhe Yuan), a Chinese explosive engineer volunteering in the East Country, who rescues journalist Song Ran (Liang Jie) from danger while she is on an interview mission.
Since its release, the drama has been gaining increasing popularity, with its iQIYI platform popularity index surpassing 8,000, as of February 2. The drama was moderately anticipated in China, but netizens were looking forward to it — as it stood out among the numerous historical drama releases that have recently dominated the industry — for its military theme, and promotional materials reminding people of the K-drama sensation Descendants of the Sun.
But it turns out the plot has more layers than viewers expected.
In the drama, the male lead, Li Zan, was originally a bright and kind-hearted demining volunteer. However, he suffers a heavy psychological blow after witnessing the loss of life on the battlefield and enduring intense emotional turmoil.
The female protagonist, Song Ran, has led a tough life too as her parents divorced when she was young. She has a gentle temperament and is introverted, but her mother’s constant nagging about her career choice has often left her feeling distressed. After facing numerous life-threatening situations, Song Ran gradually comes to understand what she truly wants and embarks on the path of pursuing her professional aspirations. The White Olive Tree unfolds Song Ran’s journey — her choices, responsibilities, and growth in the face of adversity — and portrays her reflections and transformation after experiencing numerous crises.
Amidst a heavy narrative, The White Olive Tree focuses on Li Zan and Song Ran’s growth and healing as they are battered by life’s challenges. The series also devotes significant attention to the survival struggles and emotional states of volunteers, journalists, and special forces soldiers. Though they are steadfast in their ideals and sense of duty, they are also emotional beings who, in the face of tragedy, are torn between their missions, anxieties, and fears.
When a photo taken during a bombing attack sparks a storm, Song Ran experiences heavy anguish. Likewise, when Li Zan’s friend sacrifices his life to protect him, he falls into a state of chronic anxiety and guilt and struggles with post-war PTSD.
By delving deeply into the characters’ emotions and addressing issues such as depression, cyber violence, and post-war PTSD, The White Olive Tree is imbued with colors of empathy, resilience, and hope. As Li Zan, Song Ran, and others experience the desolation and misery left in the wake of war, they come to cherish the present and value life.
A text from the novel of the same name from which the Chinese drama is adapted reads, “Later, I realized that the world may be dark, devoid of light, but kindness is like a shining pearl on the beach. Even if searching for it wounds you with gravel, once you hold it in your palm, its gentle and beautiful radiance will make you smile without regret.”
All the positive reviews aside, Chinese netizens are also calling out The White Olive Tree for its flaws. Some criticize the drama for being slow-paced, with too many slow-motion shots, and having inconsistencies and cliches. For instance, the scene where the female lead steps on the land mine and the male lead tries to rescue her is something similar to what drama fans have seen in Descendants of the Sun and Crash Landing on You.
Netizens also criticize a scene from the first episode. Song Ran is a journalist working in a war-torn country. Not long after her introduction, a dramatic scene unfolds. Multiple explosions occur in the city where she is located. Since the cameraman is unable to meet up with her, she has no choice but to set up the camera herself and report live from the scene. To emphasize the heroine’s dedication and bravery, the show portrays her reporting in the midst of ongoing explosions — without wearing any protective gear or even assessing whether her location is safe, which is quite a stretch.
Nevertheless, as of now, criticisms are few and far between, and with The White Olive Tree off to a good start, its popularity is expected to soar even higher with upcoming episodes.
Source: Baidu