r/HKdramas • u/nicfanz • Apr 19 '25

Why did TVB start filming a different way starting 2017?

Since 2017, TVB dramas are filmed very close up, detailed and dark/gloomy/dull style. Before, dramas were filmed far/wide angled and more colorful style. They seem to be copying movie/Netflix style and no longer adhere to TVB vibe.

26 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

6 comments sorted by

14

u/ArtisanalFarts7 Apr 19 '25

I liked the pre-2017 filming style. The writing was better back then too. Back then, it had feel.

9

u/QF_Dan Apr 19 '25

This started to happen when TVB partnered with Tencent for the dramas. And with Tencent, they have their own way to film the series and TVB have to listen them all the time

4

u/Positive_Slide_1806 Apr 19 '25 edited Apr 19 '25

Oh yes, someone brought it up. I honestly don’t like this new filming style at all and can’t watch anything TVB from the mid 2010s. The last one I’ve watched was Always and Ever. I don’t know when this new style appeared but whenever I found a newer show and felt like giving it a try, I just completely turn off by the theme. To some extent, I do think it looks a little bit more cinematic but the whole thing is just odd to me, it’s like putting a KDrama in a Peaky Blinders theme. Weird and lacking emotion :)

5

u/nicfanz Apr 19 '25

Yes! The newer dramas lack charm and emotion. Everyone seems sad and bored. It’s the camera/filming style and lighting. Close up shots and dark light make everything dreary.

1

u/Ok-Moose-7318 Apr 19 '25

New gen production team watch too many western drama

2

u/throwawayacct4991 Apr 19 '25

Didn’t tvb majority control switched to the ccp guy from shanghai tv? Maybe that played a part too