The Story of Ming Lan (2018)
A sweeping Chinese historical drama about a woman who hides her brilliance to survive — and ultimately thrive — in a world designed to silence her.
The Story of Ming Lan - Series Information
- Original Title: 知否知否应是绿肥红瘦
- First Air Year: 2018
- Last Air Year: 2019
- Created by: Zheng Yi
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (45 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 78
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Chinese
- Spoken Languages: Mandarin
- Networks: Hunan Television
- Alternative Titles: 知否知否 (CN), 지부지부응시녹비홍수 (KR), Do You Know? It Ought To Be a Wilting Flower Amongst The Lush Leaves (US)
- Production Companies: Daylight Entertainment Co., Ltd., 东阳正午阳光影视有限公司
- Production Countries: China, Canada
The Story of Ming Lan - Plot
Sheng Minglan, the intelligent but overlooked sixth daughter of the Sheng family, hides her talents to survive a difficult childhood and avenge her mother's death. As she navigates family struggles and political intrigue, she forms a complex bond with Gu Tingye. Together, they rise as a powerful couple, balancing love, loyalty, and duty in a changing empire.
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The Story of Ming Lan - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Zheng Yi
Main Cast
- Zhao Liying
- William Feng
- Zhu Yilong
- Liu Jun
- Gao Lu
- Liu Lin
- Karlina Zhang
- Wang Herun
- Shi Shi
- Wang Renjun
Writers
- Zeng Lu
- Wu Tong
Executive Producers
- Xiaonan Ma
The Story of Ming Lan - FAQs
Where can you stream The Story of Ming Lan?
The Story of Ming Lan is available to stream on Rakuten Viki and iQIYI, both offering the series under flatrate subscription and ad-supported plans. You can compare all current viewing options available in your region via JustWatch for the most up-to-date platform availability.
Is The Story of Ming Lan based on a novel?
Yes. The Story of Ming Lan is adapted from the popular Chinese web novel Zhi Fu Zhi Fu Ying Shi Lü Fei Hong Shou by author Guan Xinhe (pen name: Guanxin Zeluan). The novel was serialized online and gained a devoted readership before being adapted into this acclaimed television series.
Who are the lead actors in The Story of Ming Lan?
The series stars Zhao Liying as the clever and resilient Sheng Minglan, and William Feng as the complex male lead Gu Tingye. Zhu Yilong also delivers a notable performance as Qi Heng, Minglan's first love, rounding out a compelling central trio.
Does The Story of Ming Lan have a satisfying ending?
The series concludes with Minglan and Gu Tingye overcoming political and familial obstacles to secure a stable, loving life together. Fans of the slow-burn romance largely consider the ending rewarding, as Minglan's long arc of endurance and quiet strategy finally pays off in full.
How many episodes does The Story of Ming Lan have?
The Story of Ming Lan consists of 78 episodes across a single season. Each episode runs approximately 45 minutes, making it a substantial but deeply immersive watch for fans of Chinese historical dramas and period romance storytelling.
What genre is The Story of Ming Lan?
The Story of Ming Lan is a historical drama. It blends elements of romance, family intrigue, political scheming, and revenge within a richly detailed Song Dynasty setting. Themes of slow-burn romance, female resilience, and social hierarchy run throughout the series.
Did The Story of Ming Lan win any awards?
The series was a major commercial and critical success in China, earning high ratings on Hunan Television and accumulating billions of views online. Zhao Liying received widespread praise for her performance, and the production was recognized at several Chinese television award ceremonies for its writing and direction.
What is The Story of Ming Lan about?
The series follows Sheng Minglan, an intelligent but deliberately understated young woman in imperial China, as she conceals her abilities to survive a treacherous household and honor her late mother. Her journey leads her through political intrigue and a transformative partnership with the ambitious Gu Tingye.
More About The Story of Ming Lan
Explore further details about the series through these authoritative external resources.