On the evening of August 23rd, the series "The Quadrangle" debuted on iQIYI with six episodes, marking its premiere. The show stars Tan Jianci and Zhou Yiran, set in an ancient, fantastical world where the protagonists solve mysteries while developing their romantic relationship. This is a fan-oriented drama, with weak storytelling and few highlights, catering primarily to the enthusiasts of the main actors.
Many fan dramas adopt an ancient, fantastical setting, and "The Quadrangle" is no exception. Such a backdrop is beneficial for fans who are often more interested in the looks and romance of their idols rather than deep narratives. The period and fantastical elements provide the perfect canvas for showcasing beauty and love stories.
It's worth noting that not all celebrity actors are the same. Some have both popularity and acting talent, delivering high-quality performances. These actors can elevate a production beyond simple fan service. On the other hand, typical celebrity actors often require shows like "The Quadrangle" to attract a more superficial fan base. This is a common industry practice.
The primary issue with "The Quadrangle" lies in its writing. The scriptwriter struggles to craft engaging stories, evident in three key areas: failing to establish a connection with viewers, lacking suspense and narrative depth, and having an unclear central plot.
Firstly, the opening is too flat to capture the audience's attention. The characters are introduced as two carefree individuals, but without establishing any meaningful connection between them and the viewers, either emotionally or through the storyline. This is a common problem in celebrity-led dramas, where the star power is greater than the character development.
Secondly, the suspense and story quality are subpar. This is a failure in writing technique. Even within a fantastical setting, a skilled writer could create compelling content. However, "The Quadrangle" lacks the necessary narrative skills. For example, the first two episodes focus on a assassination attempt, which should be tense and dramatic, but the execution is mundane and unengaging.
Improving the narrative by revealing the antagonist's plans earlier could enhance the story. By allowing the audience to view the situation from an omniscient perspective, it creates tension as the protagonists struggle to overcome the obstacles. This simple technique would make the story more intriguing.
The lack of such techniques is prevalent throughout the series, leading to a monotonous and uninspired narrative. As a result, many casual viewers will likely lose interest after the first few episodes. Fan-driven dramas often suffer from these shortcomings.
Lastly, the central narrative thread is vague. Without a clear direction, it's difficult for viewers to invest in the story. Fans may understand that the main storyline revolves around the romantic development between the leads, but this is insufficient for a broader audience. A compelling plotline is essential for keeping viewers engaged and anticipating future episodes.
A strong script is the foundation of any good drama. Poor writing can undermine the entire production, even if the cast is talented. "The Quadrangle" ultimately becomes a self-indulgent fan drama, failing to appeal to a wider audience due to its lack of substance.