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It’s a wrap! The upcoming Chinese drama How Dare You (成何体统), led by Wang Churan and Cheng Lei, has officially finished filming after a solid four-month shoot.
Now it’s off to post-production—and based on what we’ve seen so far, this one’s shaping up to be a right little gem for historical-fantasy lovers.
Adapted from Qi Yingjun’s novel—which has also been turned into a manhua—How Dare You isn’t your typical “girl falls into a novel” setup.
Instead, it throws a curveball: both main characters are time travellers, and it seems there’s more at play than just dodging palace politics.
Wang Churan takes on the role of Yu Wan Yin, a modern-day office worker who’s completely burnt out.
One day, she finds herself suddenly transported into the world of a palace novel, where she inhabits the body of the infamous “demonic consort”—a figure supposedly destined to bring ruin to the empire.
Across from her is Cheng Lei as Emperor Xia Hou Dan, painted early on as your classic cold-blooded tyrant.
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But the twist?
He’s also a time traveller.
Yup, he knows he’s in a story, too.
The two of them, caught in a tale already set to end in tragedy, team up to fight fate itself.
It's giving meta-romance, with a side of rebellion.
Visually, this drama might be Wang Churan’s strongest costume look yet.
Her imperial styling strikes that perfect blend of sultry and sharp, while Cheng Lei looks right at home in dark robes and that brooding emperor energy.
The palace sets, the tension, the whispered schemes—they’re all there, but there’s also a noticeable streak of humour running through it. Not quite a parody, but definitely self-aware.
The cast lineup adds even more spice: Tang Xiaotian is onboard as Xia Hou Bo—likely our main antagonist, judging by his rather villainous aura—while Hu Yixuan plays Xie Yong Er, whose role is still under wraps but looks important.
Supporting names include veteran actors Ma Su, Cui Yi, and action star Louis Fan.
There’s no confirmed air date just yet, but with filming wrapped and buzz building, we’re hoping for a premiere later this year.
If you're into drama that bends genres and isn’t afraid to play with tropes, keep your eyes on this one.
How Dare You trailer update:
🎥 250423 #HowDareYou updates with a trailer
— Cheng Lei 丞磊 PH (@chengleiph) April 23, 2025
“Acting foolishly in front of others, plotting cleverly behind the scenes!🐟🥚 "Drama queen" takes the stage and the lively feast begins!🍲”
Weibo 🔗 https://t.co/IQPrMH3xM8#成何体统 #丞磊 #เฉิงเหล่ย#WangChuran #王楚然 pic.twitter.com/mqpQiLuyMb