New Drama "Upstream" Captivates Viewers with Authentic Portrait of Asian Games Swimmers

The sports drama "Upstream" for the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou recently concluded, marking a milestone as a key project supported by the Zhejiang Literature and Art Fund. Premiering on Zhejiang Satellite TV during the swimming events, the drama achieved strong viewership ratings and widespread online popularity.

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"Upstream" seamlessly integrated fictional narratives with real-world swimming competitions, offering an immersive viewing experience. Drawing inspiration from the Zhejiang Swimming Team, the drama follows the journey of four protagonists from childhood swimming enthusiasts to international athletes.

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The creative team conducted extensive interviews with athletes and staff, embedding themselves within the Zhejiang Swimming Training Base. The script, crafted over six years, authentically portrays athletes' lives, blending documentary-style realism with narrative drama.

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Filmed on location in Zhejiang, "Upstream" showcases the province's charm and the authentic environment of swimming training. Casting prioritized authenticity, with lead actor Li Wenhan, a former competitive swimmer, undergoing additional training to embody his role. His portrayal, along with the participation of professional athletes in competition scenes, adds realism to the drama.