The history of Chinese royalty has long captured the imagination of filmmakers and television producers, both within China and beyond. With over two millennia of imperial rule, China’s royal legacy is rich with captivating stories, intricate politics, and dramatic conflicts. As a result, Chinese royal history has been the subject of numerous films, television series, and documentaries, all of which explore the lives, struggles, and grandeur of the imperial family.

From the towering palaces of the Ming Dynasty to the court intrigues of the Qing Dynasty, Chinese royalty has provided a wealth of material for storytelling. These works of cinema and television offer a unique glimpse into the opulence, power, and drama that defined the lives of emperors and their courts. In this article, we will explore some of the most famous films and TV dramas that have delved into the history and lives of China’s royal families.

The Influence of Chinese Royalty in Film and Television

The influence of Chinese royalty on the entertainment industry cannot be overstated. Throughout the history of Chinese cinema and television, the imperial court has been a major source of inspiration. The lavish costumes, intricate political schemes, and the lives of historical figures such as emperors, empresses, concubines, and royal advisors have provided fertile ground for filmmakers to create compelling narratives.

These works often portray the splendor and decadence of the imperial court, but they also reflect the struggles and challenges faced by those in power. Whether focusing on the rise and fall of dynasties, the relationships between royal family members, or the political maneuverings of courtiers, films and television dramas about Chinese royalty have played a key role in shaping public perceptions of China’s imperial past.

The depiction of Chinese royalty in media also allows for a broader understanding of Chinese culture, history, and the values that have influenced the country for centuries. By watching these films and shows, viewers can get a glimpse into the political, social, and cultural dynamics that governed the Chinese empire for over two millennia.

Iconic Films About Chinese Royalty

1. The Last Emperor (1987)

One of the most famous films about Chinese royalty is The Last Emperor (1987), directed by Bernardo Bertolucci. The film tells the true story of Puyi, the last emperor of the Qing Dynasty, who ascended to the throne as a child and was later deposed as China underwent profound political change. The movie follows Puyi’s life, from his early years in the Forbidden City to his time as a puppet emperor under Japanese occupation and his eventual life as a commoner after the fall of the empire.

The Last Emperor offers a fascinating look at the life of an individual caught in the crosshairs of China’s political revolution. The film explores Puyi’s internal struggles, his sense of powerlessness, and his eventual acceptance of his new life. The film’s portrayal of the Qing court, including the opulence of the Forbidden City and the complexities of the emperor’s relationship with his family and courtiers, provides a vivid representation of China’s royal past.

The film won several Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, and is widely regarded as one of the best historical films about China’s imperial history. It offers an insightful examination of the fall of the imperial system and the changing nature of Chinese society during the early 20th century.

2. Curse of the Golden Flower (2006)

Directed by Zhang Yimou, Curse of the Golden Flower (2006) is a visually stunning epic set during the Tang Dynasty. The film tells the story of a royal family on the brink of collapse due to political intrigue, family betrayal, and forbidden love. The emperor, played by Chow Yun-fat, is at the center of a palace divided by secrets and lies, with his wife (played by Gong Li) and their children each playing pivotal roles in the unfolding drama.

The film’s lavish costumes and extravagant set designs are complemented by a gripping storyline that explores the power struggles within the imperial court. Curse of the Golden Flower is not only an action-packed drama but also a poignant reflection on the personal and political costs of power and ambition within a royal family.

The film received critical acclaim for its direction, acting, and stunning cinematography, and it remains one of the most popular films to explore the world of Chinese royalty. It effectively captures the opulence of the Tang Dynasty while presenting the darker, more tragic side of life in the imperial court.

3. The Empress of China (2014)

While The Empress of China is not a traditional film, it is one of the most notable television dramas about Chinese royalty. This highly popular Chinese TV series follows the life of Wu Zetian, the only female emperor in Chinese history. The show portrays her rise from being a low-ranking concubine in the Tang Dynasty to becoming the empress and ruler of China.

The Empress of China delves into Wu Zetian’s political acumen, her ambitions, and the challenges she faces as a woman in a male-dominated court. The show examines the complex relationships between Wu Zetian and the men in her life, including her father, her husband, and her son, all of whom were pivotal to her ascent to power.

The series was a massive hit in China, drawing attention not only for its historical accuracy but also for its portrayal of strong female leadership. The show’s elaborate costumes and impressive sets, combined with a compelling narrative, helped bring the history of Wu Zetian to life for modern audiences. It also sparked renewed interest in the role of women in Chinese history and the complex dynamics of the imperial court.

4. The Imperial Doctress (2016)

Another popular TV series that brings the world of Chinese royalty to life is The Imperial Doctress (2016). This drama tells the story of Tan Yunxian, a woman who becomes a physician in the royal court during the Ming Dynasty. Tan Yunxian defies the conventions of her time to become a skilled doctor, treating the imperial family and navigating the complex world of court politics.

The Imperial Doctress explores themes of gender, power, and the role of women in ancient China. It offers a unique perspective on the lives of royal women, particularly those who were not simply relegated to roles as wives or concubines but who had the ability to influence the imperial court in significant ways. The series highlights the struggles faced by female characters in the royal court, where personal ambitions were often suppressed by the strict hierarchies of power.

The drama was praised for its historical accuracy, particularly in its depiction of Chinese medicine, and its focus on a lesser-known yet intriguing figure from Chinese history.

5. The King’s Woman (2017)

The King’s Woman (2017) is a Chinese historical drama based on the story of Gao Changgong, a concubine of the Qin Dynasty who became involved in a tragic and tumultuous love affair with the future emperor, King Ying Zheng, later known as Emperor Qin Shi Huang. The show portrays the passionate and forbidden relationship between Gao Changgong and the king, set against the backdrop of political intrigue, betrayal, and ambition.

The drama provides an emotional and dramatic retelling of the life of one of China’s most iconic historical figures, Emperor Qin Shi Huang, and the powerful women in his life. The series explores themes of love, power, and the sacrifices made for the sake of the throne. The portrayal of the royal court, with its scheming ministers and rival factions, brings to life the complex power dynamics that characterized China’s ancient imperial rule.

The Legacy of Chinese Royalty in Modern-Day Media

Chinese films and television dramas about royalty have had a lasting impact on both local and international audiences. These works not only offer a window into China’s imperial past but also help preserve and popularize its rich cultural heritage. The glamour of the royal courts, the intrigue of palace politics, and the drama of love, betrayal, and ambition make for compelling narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide.

As China continues to explore its imperial past through cinema and television, the allure of its royal legacy remains a potent source of inspiration for filmmakers and storytellers. Whether in grand historical epics or intimate character studies, the depiction of Chinese royalty continues to captivate viewers and serves as a bridge between the country’s past and present.

In addition to entertaining audiences, these films and TV dramas help preserve China’s imperial legacy, ensuring that the stories of its royal families, their triumphs, and their tragedies are passed down through the generations. By exploring the complex lives of emperors, empresses, concubines, and courtiers, these works of art offer a timeless and fascinating glimpse into one of the world’s oldest and most influential empires.