A scene in Happiness Juncao. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
The TV series Happiness Juncao, about a Chinese-invented agricultural technology that has benefited more than 100 countries, has received widespread acclaim from industry insiders and critics, according to a recent symposium held in Beijing.
The story is based on the real-life experiences of Chinese scientist Lin Zhanxi, a professor at China's Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, who invented the technology in the 1980s and is hailed as the "father of juncao". Juncao, which translates to "fungus grass", is a hybrid grass with multiple uses, including desertification prevention, cultivation for mushroom farming and livestock forage.
Zhang Wenzhen, deputy director of the Fujian Radio and Television Administration, said that Minning Town, a hit TV drama phenomenon that also incorporates a plotline based on juncao technology, has been translated into over 20 languages and broadcast in more than 50 countries and regions.
A still of Happiness Juncao. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
In Happiness Juncao, which includes similar elements, Zhang suggested that the producers create subtitled versions to help the TV series reach international audiences.
Zeng Yingxue, senior vice-president of Perfect World Holding Group, one of the main production companies, said that the core creative team began interviews and research in early 2022 and started filming in June 2023, with filming taking place in various locations over four months, including Fujian province in East China, Papua New Guinea and Fiji.
Lin Dongmei, deputy director of the National Engineering Research Center of Juncao Technology and daughter of Lin Zhanxi, said that Guo Tao, the actor portraying a professor based on her father, delivered a vivid performance. Additionally, Lin Dongmei added that the TV series effectively showcases how women in rural areas benefit from juncao technology.
Wang Yichuan, vice-chairman of the China Literature and Art Critics Association, commented that Happiness Juncao marks a new exploration of subjects revolving around China sending experts and professionals to help locals eradicate poverty in foreign countries.
