Zhu Fenglian Photo: Xinhua

New mainland film and TV productions such as movies YOLO and Pegasus 2 are among the latest works to be recommended to people in Taiwan by Chinese officials, who say the charm of Chinese culture can be shared on both sides of the Taiwan Straits through watching these productions. 

Chinese mainland TV drama Empresses in the Palace has been extremely popular in Taiwan, especially during the Spring Festival, as local media described that watching the captivating drama while chatting with others created a festive atmosphere during the holiday. 

The drama, which first aired 12 years ago, tells the story of Zhen Huan, a palace maid who enters the palace as a naive and kind-hearted young girl. After experiencing the deceit and intrigue of the court, she gradually "darkens" and navigates through intense palace struggles, eventually rising to power.

Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson of Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said she hopes watching films and dramas could strengthen ties. 

"Recent releases such as the films YOLO, Pegasus 2, Johnny Keep Walking!, and TV dramas Blossoms Shanghai, Always on the Move, and Islands are all excellent options," Zhu told a news briefing on Wednesday.

YOLO and Pegasus 2 are the major driving force of the recent Chinese mainland movie box-office surge, while Blossoms Shanghai is a popular TV drama that has been rated 8.7/10 on Chinese rating platform Douban. 

"I hope that people on both sides of the Taiwan Straits can not only enjoy excellent films and TV shows, but also appreciate the charm of Chinese culture more deeply, savoring the happiness of striving for a better life," Zhu said.