Man, was Nirvana in Fire really that long ago? It’s one of the best dramas from any country I’ve ever watched and remains vivid in my mind and heart of what epic storytelling paired with excellent acting and directing can produce. Then teen actor Wu Lei was just a kid, squarely a gawky teen playing a gawky teen role that was supporting but integral to the story. It vaulted him to stardom and he’s been working nonstop the last few years though I haven’t found a drama yet of his that interests me to watch all the way through. But this December 26th was his birthday and he’s officially 20 years old, which means he can more believably play male lead roles in the 20s and that’s going to be a whole lot more fun to see him expand his opportunities. Publicity wise he had a great year in 2019, landing the Emporio Armani watch spokesman role in China. Continue reading →