Tan Songyun has sparked a debate with her performance in Against the Current. Some viewers feel she is no longer believable in teenage roles, while others think her youthful appearance doesn’t convey the character’s life experience. Despite the criticism, the drama has been a huge success, breaking records in ratings and popularity.
Against the Current has exceeded 33,000 heat points on Tencent Video, making it one of the platform’s top-performing dramas of the year.
Tan Songyun’s latest drama has also topped the ratings on CCTV-8, drawing a large television audience.

Critics of Against the Current in China have conflicting expectations for Tan Songyun: she must embody a young character while also portraying a woman who has faced hardships. This duality has led to divided opinions on her performance.
While some viewers feel her youthful looks suit the early part of the story, others believe she doesn’t reflect the character’s growth and maturity as the story progresses.

Some viewers feel Tan Songyun doesn’t naturally fit the role of a young girl anymore, especially compared to younger actors. Her mannerisms and speaking style have also been criticized for not aligning with her character’s background.
Despite the critiques, Against the Current continues to lead in ratings nationally. The drama’s strength lies in its setting, where the heroine must navigate familiar yet treacherous territory.
The focus on survival and a strong, principled heroine has resonated with audiences, even if they have reservations about the lead actress.
The well-crafted script weaves family conflicts with political turmoil, creating a compelling narrative.
The attention to detail in costumes, etiquette, and architecture adds depth to the story and enhances its visual appeal.
The drama’s supporting characters add layers to the conflicts, showcasing emotional performances and distinct personalities.

The drama’s intricate storytelling and strong ensemble cast have captivated audiences, proving that a successful drama is more than just its lead actress.
Sources: kenh14