Chau Ya transforms into a revenge-seeking girl in historical drama

Chinese actors Chau Ya, Hsu Kai portray two-faced characters seeking revenge for their families in the historical drama "Yi Ou Xuan".

The chemistry between the two main characters resonated with many viewers.

Set during the Southern Song dynasty, "Yi Ou Xuan" features Chau Ya as Xie Qingyuan, a young woman of noble birth. Her mother was falsely accused, forcing them to leave the Xie manor and endure a life of wandering and hardship. After her mother's murder, Xie Qingyuan meticulously plans her return to the Xie manor to seek revenge.

Hsu Kai and Chau Ya promoted Yi Ou Xuan in Ho Chi Minh City on the evening of 22/9. Previously, they introduced the drama in Bangkok, Thailand. Video: iQiyi

While searching for clues, Xie Qingyuan frequently encounters Yan Rui (Hsu Kai), a court official with a mysterious background. Both characters conceal their own agendas, often living double lives to hide their true objectives. Gradually, they come to understand each other, forming a formidable duo in both personal and public matters.

A scene featuring young ladies and servants in the Xie manor in Yi Ou Xuan.

The drama premiered on 17/9 and has received positive reviews from audiences for its script, performances, and meticulous investment in setting and props. Sohu praised Chau Ya's natural transformation into a complex character, highlighting the intelligence and resourcefulness of her role. At 28, she entered the entertainment industry in 2017, gaining fame through works such as Better Days, Shan He Ling, Jin Yue Ru Ge, and Hen Ji Hen Ji An.

Hsu Kai's portrayal of the talented court official is central to the narrative. During the promotion of "Yi Ou Xuan" and a fan meet-and-greet in Ho Chi Minh City, the actor stated that Yan Rui is an arrogant character, unafraid of power, and will stop at nothing to achieve his goals. Hsu Kai, 31, rose to prominence as Fu Heng in the palace drama Yan Xi Gong Lue (2018). He subsequently starred in a series of works including Tian Wu Ji, Li Ge Hang, Zhao Yao, Ding Lu 80/20 Cua Tinh Yeu, and Em Dep Hon Anh Sao.

The drama was filmed in 2025 in an ancient town in Zhejiang, China. According to The Paper, the production team heavily invested in the settings, recreating the grandeur of a noble family's estate. Props such as jewelry and ceramics were meticulously replicated and crafted to enhance the story.