The 2009 TVB anniversary celebration has begun, with two long-awaited star-studded dramas, "The Door of Wealth and Nobility" and "Palace Heart Struggles," making their official debut. Compared to "The Door of Wealth and Nobility," which is carried by seasoned actors, "Palace Heart Struggles" features a wave of idols and an abundance of beauties, naturally drawing attention that the former can't match. TVB intentionally postponed the award ceremony, clearly to ensure that "Palace Heart Struggles" gets its share of recognition, showing just how much importance the management places on this drama.
Compared to the hit series "Wicked Desire" from a few years ago, the prospects for "Palace Heart Struggles" look even better. First, there are more beauties; second, there are more topics; third, the plot is more engaging—how could it not be popular? "Palace Heart Struggles" is a big drama featuring women, and the intrigue and power struggles between them form the selling point of the show. With ten beauties in one drama, who will shine brighter depends on fate.
[Charlene Choi]
As the top actress of TVB, Charlene Choi is undoubtedly the leading lady of this drama. Having been through many years of hard work, both on and off-screen, she remains a focal point of public opinion, especially regarding her personal life and scandals. The role in this drama suits Charlene perfectly. Besides her extraordinary beauty and intelligence, her resilient personality also aligns with Charlene's. Whether she can surpass her performance in "Wicked Desire" is worth looking forward to, and I believe she won't easily give up the competition for the title of "Best Actress" at year-end.
[Yang Yi]
As one of the new generation of actresses promoted by TVB in recent years, Yang Yi has performed competently in previous dramas. Though well-received, her performances were not particularly outstanding. In "Palace Heart Struggles," Yang Yi breaks away from her usual image to portray the villainess Yao Jinling, delivering a stunning performance of "Heart Schemes of Beauties," arguably her most standout role since her debut. With this breakthrough, Yang Yi has a good chance to compete with Charlene Choi and Ada Tang for the title of "Best Actress," signaling her formal rise to stardom.
[Mi Xue]
Mi Xue, a timeless beauty beloved by TVB fans, has remained stunningly beautiful for decades with her exceptional acting skills. Last year's hit "Stormy Weather II" helped Mi Xue fulfill her lifelong dream of winning the Best Actress award. Although not the lead in "Palace Heart Struggles," every scene Mi Xue appears in will be captivating. The performance of the "most beautiful veteran actress" is eagerly awaited.
[Guan Ju Ying]
Guan Ju Ying gained immense popularity in mainland China through the "Stormy Weather" series. In "Palace Heart Struggles," she plays the role of Ruan Cuiyun. Like Mi Xue, her screen time isn't extensive, but Aunt SA's consummate acting skills allow her to break away from her usual roles as a villainess and start anew.
[Wu Yong Wei]
The breathtakingly beautiful Wu Yong Wei has starred in numerous TVB dramas over the years but still hasn't achieved widespread fame. Her lackluster performance in the recently concluded "Healthy Cook" was disappointing. In "Palace Heart Struggles," her role as Tan Yanshang, though minor, serves as a lifeline for Wu Yong Wei. She is skilled enough and not too young, but lacks only the opportunity to become a major star, leaving fans of Wu Yong Wei sighing in regret.
[Hui Ying Hong]
Hui Ying Hong, the first winner of the Hong Kong Film Award for Best Actress, has remained active in the Hong Kong television industry, portraying countless virtuous wives and mothers, becoming a distinguished representative of Hong Kong actresses. In "Palace Heart Struggles," despite facing a group of vibrant young actresses, Hui Ying Hong's acting prowess outshines her fading beauty.
[Xie Xue Xin]
In the early hit drama "Heroic Women," Xie Xue Xin portrayed the matriarch, a character both ruthless and compassionate, endearing her to many mainland TVB fans. Still charming at heart, Sister Xin plays the Empress Dowager in "Palace Heart Struggles," with significant screen time and a commanding presence. Whether she can surpass her portrayal of Yin Fengyi is highly anticipated.
[Lee Si Yan]
Lee Si Yan is one of the more prominent new generation of TVB actresses. Although not as successful as Yang Yi, she continues to deliver compelling performances. Whether playing villains or heroes, Lee Si Yan handles her roles effortlessly, commendable for a young actress. In "Palace Heart Struggles," Lee Si Yan plays a rival to Yang Yi. Despite being similar in age, their star fortunes differ greatly. It remains to be seen whether this will spur Lee Si Yan to perform even better.
[Stephy Tang]
As one of the favored new generation of actresses in TVB, Stephy Tang has appeared in several popular dramas in recent years. Playing a palace maid in "Palace Heart Struggles," she retains her obedient demeanor, with a charming appearance sure to captivate many young men.
[Yip Choi Choy]
Despite being crowned Miss Hong Kong in 2005, Yip Choi Choy hasn't had much luck. In TVB dramas, she mostly plays stereotypical flower vase roles, making it difficult for her to stand out. The role of Consort Wang in "Palace Heart Struggles" offers much more room for development compared to her previous roles. If she performs well, she might finally shed the label of being just another pretty face.