A recent TV series To the Wonder has become China's breakout TV hit of the year. It has also won praise at a film festival abroad. To the Wonder is based on the award-winning novel of Li Juan, My Altay, and is directed by Teng Congcong. It is very poetic and filled with beautiful wisdom.
The TV drama follows the journey of Li Wenxiu. She once wished to leave Altay, an area in Northern Xinjiang. After failing to realize her dream in the capital of Xinjiang, Li has to move back to her hometown and tries to find a new direction for herself. At first, Li finds it hard to understand her neighbours' traditional way of thinking. Under the influence of her mother Zhang Fengxia, Li starts to see the place and its people in a new light. Later, she comes to understand their lifestyle and respect for nature.
Fans describe watching the drama as an experience in the wonderland. "It's like breathing in fresh air or lying under the sun," said one fan. "It is a unique drama, very different from the usual Chinese series. A must-watch if you want to discover the beauty of the grassland and life there," another fan said.
"People enjoy the wonderful view of Altay. But the key to the success of the series lies in its ability to connect with the viewers on a human level," said Teng Congcong. "In the drama, everyone communicates sincerely. Even if I disagree with you, I sincerely respect you. In fact, this is a very important part of human nature—the love for truth, goodness and beauty."
