Sheren Tang Struggled to Understand "Beauty at War"

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TVB’s prime time production Beauty at War <金枝慾孽貳> generated negative reactions from fans and critics alike since last week’s debut. The War and Beauty <金枝慾孽> sequel earned surprisingly low ratings during its first week, averaging only 23 points. Cast members immediately pledged their support at promotional events, urging audience to give the show a second chance. Speaking to reporters yesterday, Sheren Tang (鄧萃雯) echoed her colleagues’ sentiments, and revealed that she is also baffled by the complex storyline.

Sheren expressed disappointment when acknowledging the drama’s low ratings. She felt that since it is a highly-anticipated sequel, she had expected better results during its premiere. Although the ratings did not meet her expectations, Sheren appeared relaxed and refused to be affected by the series’ performance.

When asked to comment on viewers’ complaints about the confusing plot, Sheren said she had expected the reaction and that audience should be patient and take the time to fully understand the story. “Of course they are confused! If [Jonathan Chik (戚其義) and Chow Yuk Ming's (周旭明) series are easy to understand, it must mean that they have changed their styles. They produce niche works. You must let it 'stew' slowly and watch patiently."

Sheren added that TV series should come in different varieties, and that viewers are free to choose what appeals to them the most. "I don't want to judge, and can only represent my own opinions. Everyone has their likes and dislikes. For now the series is still paving the path to the bigger story. There will be even more complex developments down the road. If [viewers] find it confusing, they can always go online to watch it again.”

Sheren was then asked to address reports that her cast-mates had trouble understanding the plot. Sheren admitted that she found it confusing as well. “Of course I don’t understand it, I had no script! If they had given me the script a little earlier, I would have had more time to research and understand the story better.”

Yesterday, Moses Chan (陳豪), Kenny Wong (黃德斌), and Christine Ng (伍詠薇) gathered to film promotional reels for Beauty at War, but Sheren did not appear at the event. When asked to address her absence, Sheren revealed that she was not invited and assumed it is because TVB has enough promotional material on hand. Sheren added that she participated in many major promotional efforts prior to the series’ debut, and will continue to attend these events per TVB’s wishes.

Reporters reached out to TVB’s Deputy Director of External Affairs, Tsang Sing Ming (曾醒明), regarding Sheren’s absence. Tsang explained that the company did not invite Sheren because the shoot was meant to feature the two male leads, Moses and Kenny. Christine and Rachel Kan (簡慕華) then joined the shoot at the last minute. Tsang further stated that TVB will definitely invite Sheren for the next promotional shoot, where they will focus on the drama’s female characters.


Creds: Ming Pao