As a devoted K-Drama fan, I consider myself fairly well-versed in navigating the whirlwind of press conferences. But recently, an unexpected invitation to the launch of iQiyi’s upcoming drama, “Ferryman: The Legends of Nanyang ” with cast Lawrence Wong, Qi Yuwu, Kate Kinney and Tay Ping Hui, threw me into uncharted territory – the world of Chinese Dramas (C-Dramas).

While excitement bubbled over at the prospect of diving into a new drama world, a hint of apprehension crept in. Here’s the thing: I’m comfortable navigating basic to intermediate Korean conversations, allowing me to grasp the essence of Korean press conferences. This C-Drama event, however, was a different beast altogether.

The language barrier reared its head quickly. Despite the event being conducted in English, the cultural nuances and the sheer speed of speech often left me scrambling to keep up. It was a humbling reminder that language acquisition is a continuous journey, and even basic understanding requires ongoing effort.

Thankfully, the bilingual host served as a bridge, seamlessly switching between English and Chinese to ensure all attendees were kept in the loop. This multilingual approach reflected the show’s unique nature: a Malaysian-Singaporean co-production filmed at the height of the pandemic.

And then, the moment every iQiyi fan was waiting for! A video greeting from the one and only Miles Wei! His message to the audience added a touch of star power and sent a wave of excitement through the room.

This “Ferryman” press conference was an eye-opening experience. It not only introduced me to the world of C-Dramas but also highlighted the power of collaboration that transcends borders and languages. While the language barrier presented a challenge, it also served as a reminder of the beauty of cultural exchange.

Now, all eyes are on “Ferryman: The Legends of Nanyang.” With its intriguing premise, international cast, and a dash of pandemic grit, this drama promises to be a captivating journey. And as a newly minted C-Drama enthusiast, I can’t wait to witness the legend unfold!