Constructing a good story

Nevertheless, the booming real estate market ushers in unforeseen developments in their lives. Tian, with her keen understanding of the market, convinces her parents to support her in purchasing three apartments in the eastern part of Beijing. She relies on prudent savings from her salary and rental income to meet the mortgage payments.

Li unexpectedly crosses paths with the magnate of a commercial real estate empire, catching his attention and earning her the opportunity to work as the lawyer on a high-profile case. Through her diligence and determination, she emerges as an exceptional lawyer, and later switches jobs to join a start-up in order to pursue a bigger dream.

"We have been working on the script since 2019. Since the story is set more than 10 years ago, we have conducted extensive research to ensure its authenticity," says Lan.

Their job is like documenting the history of Beijing's real estate market. Delving into a lot of news reports and documentaries, and conducting research at some property agencies, Lan and her fellow creators produced a stack of paperwork, meticulously recording the annual property prices in different areas of Beijing, as well as noting the significant news events that would influence the market.

"The plot spans 10 years, a period of tremendous change in Beijing. Countless buildings rose up and the city was rapidly expanding. The country and its capital, in this special way, become intertwined with the youth of the two main characters. I believe this connection will deeply resonate with many post-1980s viewers," says Lan.