Beyond the Realm of Conscience
Encyclopedia
Beyond the Realm of Conscience is a 2009 Hong Kong television series. Produced by Mui Siu-ching, the serial is one of the two grand TVB
productions to celebrate along with the channel's 42nd anniversary, the other being Born Rich
. The drama aired five days a week on the TVB network with 45-minute episodes starting October 19, 2009.
Set in the latter years of the Tang Dynasty
, Beyond the Realm of Conscience tells the story of palace maid Lau Sam-ho and her relations in the Imperial Palace, beginning with her experiences in the Imperial Household Bureau (尚宮局).
Around the time of Choi-king's death, Dowager Concubine Cheng's son, Lee Yi (prince) encounters the six years old Sam-ho. He showed kindness to Sam-ho by giving her some white flowers from Choi-king's favourite tree (Chinese viburnum
s (瓊花) so she can take it to her dying mother. Empress Dowager was still very angry because of the hair piece and asked the new head of the Jewellery department, Yuen Chui-wan to shatter it. However, Yuen Chui-wan believed that the hairpiece is a one of a kind masterpiece, therefore she injures her own hand to protect it. She tells Empress Dowager that the hair piece is full of bad luck and if it is shattered all the bad luck will emmense into the air. Taking this as an advantage Empress Dowager forces Dowager Concubine Cheng to wear the hair piece and tells her because of her good spirit she can block the bad luck from the entering the palace. After a short period of time bad luck begins to happen to Dowager Concubine Cheng and her son Lee Yi. The story was told that Lee Yi fell off a tree, while trying to reach for his kite. The fall injured his head causing his brain to remain as a 6 year old boy forever. Lee Yi uses this mental illness as an excuse to escape the imminenet death threat from the Empress Dowager, Sam-ho gives him some sweet lotus seed candy to comfort him on the journey. Because of this, the young prince begins to develop a small affection for her.
The Imperial Household Bureau is responsible for managing and directing all household services to the Emperor and the Imperial family of the Tang Dynasty. It is made up of four departments, namely the Houses of Jewellery, Attire, Food, and Furnishing. Sam-ho and Kam-ling are introduced into the bureau in their childhood and are brought up as the disciples in the palace. The two girls are very diligent. Yuen Tsui-wan, Head of the Jewels, and Chung Suet-ha, Head of Attire, are both very fond of Sam-ho for she is a kind-hearted young girl and shows great capabilities in the decorative arts of jewellery and silk work. Both of them fight bitterly to have Sam-ho in their departments. In the end, Sam-ho is assigned to Department of Attire while, Kam-Ling is assigned to the Department of Jewellery.
Years later, Sam-ho meets Ko Hin-yeung, a palace scholar and also a chess teacher, the two shares a secret love compassion for one and another. The young prince Yi, has now grown up and he is returning to the palace. Later on in the series he becomes the Emperor after an evading assassinations with the help of Sam-ho and Hin-yeung. He promotes Hin-yeung as the Palace General because of his faithfulness. Sam-ho later becomes the Head of the Jewel Department. Even though the Emperor has deep feeling for Sam-ho and wants to have Sam-ho as his concubine, he decides to bury his feeling for her when he discovers that Hin-yeung and Sam-ho are deeply in love and they were planning to leave the palace together once the emperor was safe.
Sam-ho and Kam-ling continue to enjoy a very close friendship, treating each other as sisters and this provokes jealousy among other palace girl servants. Time and again some of them will try to get Sam-ho and Kam-ling into trouble. However, Sam-ho's honesty and kind attitude endears many powerful people in the palace and they always come to her aid. Whereas, Kam-ling uses her cunning mind to get rid of her enemies. As time passed, Kam-ling realised in order to protect herself from the bullying and to be able to survive in the palace she has to be someone who is powerful and respected. Therefore, she slowly works on a scheme to gain favour of the Empress Dowager Cheng, Yi's mother. She was eventually chosen as one of the Yi's concubines. From there she works on a bigger scheme to get rid of all her competitors, which eventually includes Sam-ho.
Yiu Kam-Ling - Kam-Ling initially starts out as a maid in the Department of Jewellery. During her time in the department, she suffers and perpetrates back-stabbing and torture. Her suffering leads her to believe that she has to plot, manipulate, and formulate schemes in order to survive and avoid further suffering in the palace. She eventually marries Emperor Lee Yi and becomes his concubine. She continuously schemes to destroy her competitors. She eventually became delusional and insane after Emperor Lee Yi punished her with life long confinement to her palace pavilion for all her evil deeds.
Yuen Chui-Wan - In the beginning, Chui-Wan serves as Deputy Leader of Jewellery Proceedings. Her dedication and hard work are eventually recognized, and she is promoted to serve as Head of the same department. Chui-Wan is a self spoken, wise woman who never accuses anyone without proof. Throughout the series, she is made Head of Furnishing Proceedings and Head of Embroidery Proceedings. She is in a feud with Suet-Ha (Michelle Yim) because she accuses her of tampering with her food by adding an ingredient to which she was allergic. As a result of her sickness, she was not permitted to leave the palace with her lover, General Man. It is later revealed that she has a son with General Man. By series end, it's implied that Bo Gut-chong took their son out of the palace and left him in the care of an outside healer.
Chung Suet-Ha - Suet-Ha starts out as Head of Embroidery Proceedings. She mistakes Chiu-wan for sabotaging her many years ago, causing her permit to leave the palace to be revoked. As a result, she was unable to see her dying mother. This starts a feud between the two friends who have once sworn sisterhood. She always opposes Chui-Wan. They eventually reconcile their differences. She is later promoted to be the Head of Palace Proceedings. When she thinks that Chui-Wan killed her to be husband purposely, she begins to try to make Chui-Wan suffer and wants to get revenge for her to-be husband. They reconciled by the end of the series and remained friends.
Ko Hin-Yeung - The Emperor's personal guard. This role is assigned to him because of his loyalty to the emperor. He is skilled in martial arts, and even taught Lee Yi several moves that save his life. He also saves Emperor Lee Yi twice from the assassins sent by the previous emperor and the grand empress. He is the lover of Sam-ho and later marries her. They have a daughter in the last episode.
) - Empress Dowager and Grand Empress Dowager Guo is based on a historical figure of the same name, who was in conflict with Empress Dowager Zheng.
Empress Dowager Zheng (Mary Hon
) - based on a historical figure of the same name, who was initially a maid of the palace, who went into conflict with Empress Dowager Guo.
Emperor Xuānzong of Tang
(Moses Chan
) - based on the Emperor Xuānzong who succeeded Empress Dowager Guo's grandson Emperor Wuzong of Tang
.
Emperor Wuzong of Tang
(Edwin Siu
) - based on the Emperor Wuzong who succeeded his brother Emperor Wenzong of Tang
.
Emperor Muzong of Tang
(Eric Li
) - based on the Emperor that preceded by Emperor Xianzong of Tang
and succeeded by his son Emperor Jingzong of Tang
, both not featured as characters in the series.
Consort Wang 王貴妃 (Tracy Ip) - based on the favourite concubine of Emperor Wuzong, Consort Wang (Wuzong)
王賢妃.
Ma Yuan Zhi (Lee Kwok Lun) - loosely based on a trusted and powerful eunuch of the time.
Chancellor Li Deyu
(Lau Dan
) - based on the Chancellor Li Deyu
of the time.
blockbuster drama, Jewel in the Palace
, reached a final peak 50 rating points, and topped the chart in Hong Kong
in 2005, Hong Kong had been waiting for another breathtaking production to the likes of Jewel in the Palace. After In 2004, the highly successful TVB drama series War and Beauty gripped a huge audience and gained excellent ratings. Producer Mui Siu Ching, who is highly familiar to this type of Darker-plot, with her experiences in dramas such as Forensic Heroes
and The Brink of Law
, moved straight to commission this drama production which genre to costume series revolving around the conflicts and struggle within the inner palace. In late 2008, The Sale
Presentation
finally confirmed with a important casts. The more Casting
then introduced at the costume fitting on February 17, 2009. The series was originally planned to start filming in December 2008, but the executives felt it had potential and so it became a grand production; filming was pushed to February 2009 with the script modified from the original 25 episodes to become 33, and new costumes were especially designed for the series.
The original working title known as Palace Schemes linked the story to scheming hearts of Ladies in the Royal palace. Although its Chinese title kept on the same meaning, Official English title changed to Beyond the realm of conscience,to prolific more catchy and lure more viewer. Furthermore, when initial script was first submitted, it was temporarily called Lau Sam Ho, represent Charmaine Sheh
's role. On the way to production after the sale presentation successfully release, The Script writer managed to change, possible for the current drama in contrast with its illustration. It led over 50% of storyline from the teaser to change as almost of scene in sale presentation not able to exist despite the main plot still provided. It yielded the some development in casting, costume, setting, character and screenplay as well.
as the protagonist. Two previous TVB award winning actors, Moses Chan
and Kevin Cheng
are also featured. TVB Best Supporting Actress 2008 winner Tavia Yeung
portrays her first villain role, which is also the most challenging role she has taken on for the past 10 years. Other experienced actresses starring alongside her as villains are Susan Tse
(villain in Rosy Business
), Michelle Yim
(villain in Moonlight Resonance
) and Susanna Kwan
(villain in Heart of Greed
).
Selena Li
is casted as Mun Bou Yin to motivate the young audiences. Unfortunately, two well-known actresses, Christine Ng
and Fala Chen
, although casted at the Sale Presentation
on October 15, 2008, were not involved in the drama. Rosanne Lui replaced Christine Ng
and was casted as the Head of Furnishing, lead Kara Hui
to recast the role which Christine Ng originally assigned. Fala Chen
did not participate in the series with reasons unknown. Then Elaine Yiu
added to the cast, replaced her on December 12, 2009. Her role was finally given to Yoyo Chen
as a villain palace maid.
's Royal palace, was only filmed in Hong Kong
unlike 2003's costume drama War and Beauty
. The outdoor scenes were filmed in local parks and in the ancient street at TKO TVB City as the Imperial Palace. The hot weather and the presence of mosquitoes in the countryside during filming left two main casts, Charmaine and Kevin in the TVB van with Charmaine staying under an umbrella to avoid the sun’s heat. Though high rise buildings surround the parks reflecting off the water, but was removed post production.
Charmaine have 17 image and 30 set of custom-made costumes. The wigs for the male characters were not taken lightly as well. Kevin Cheng
's wig with middle parting was made by the same master who crafted Tony Leung's wig in Red Cliff while Moses Chan
's emperor wig was specially created with braided pattern. The wigs were so heavy for the female cast need to keep some painkillers handy during the costume fitting. As The height of the wig represent social status, Susan Tse
who played The Grand Empress had the tallest wig as It took 3 hour daily for makeup and setting hairstyle. As The total of costume is about 250 set , The 4 departments have different flower embroidery on costumes while Embroidery department use Sared Lily and Pink color and Jewelry department uses Peony and blue color while Food and Beverage department uses Chrysanthemums and orange color as well as Upholstery department uses Lotus and green color. Susan and Moses emperor costumes alone took 2 month for the hand embroidery. The accessories used in the series mostly a neck band and the big head ornaments. Actress, Tavia Yeung
pointed out that the female cast in the series suffer from neck and shoulder pains, "The head ornaments are too heavy. So, by the time we finish filming the series, everyone will probably suffer from cervical vertebrae inflammation (swelling)! As soon as the head ornament goes on, our necks already have problems. Right now, my neck and shoulders are swollen. I have to apply ointment on them every night."
format popular throughout East Asia
. It revolves around palace
scheming, which has been featured in numerous TVB television series before Beyond the Realm of Conscience and also beyond Hong Kong
, China
and Taiwan
in dramas from Korea
and other East Asian countries These series were made very popular in Hong Kong
possibly by War and Beauty
, produced by TVB in 2004 also as an anniversary
grand production. However, Beyond the Realm of Conscience is rather a series that carries the message that good (Lau Sam Ho, Charmaine Sheh
) always beats evil (Yiu Kam Ling, Tavia Yeung
. War and Beauty
depicts the lives of four imperial concubines who all scheme to rise.
Beyond the Realm of Conscience tells the story of the life of a protagonist who struggles to survive in the palace
, but rises in status through a kind heart. Beyond the Realm of Conscience, however, is far shorter in length. The television series is a costume drama
, using elaborate costumes and sets to attract audiences. However, Beyond the Realm of Conscience also uses historical figures an events in its plot, such as Grand Empress Dowager Guo
.
being cast as a villain
for the first time. Some viewers also criticised Charmaine Sheh
's character of "Lau Sam Ho" as being "too perfect" and therefore unrealistic.
Tavia Yeung
's acting skills initially received criticism from viewers saying that she was not "evil" enough for her role as "Yiu Gam Ling", however by the end of the series she won praise for her facial acting, which showed off her villainy. Her role as "Yiu Gam Ling" was a favorite to win the best actress award in the 2009 TVB Anniversary Awards
, however rather than Best Actress she won the awards for Best Performance and My Favorite Female Character. Netizens also strongly praised her character, which replaced the character of the Empress Dowager, portrayed by Susan Tse
, as the lead villain in the series from episode 17. Charmaine also received praise for he acting, in particular in the final episode. The series also received acclaim from critics for its elaborate costumes and plot.
The comparison of the series to TVB's 2004 War and Beauty
received much retaliation from fans. The plotting and scheming of the characters in Beyond the Realm of Conscience was repeatedly inferior to that of War and Beauty. Others argued that the series was superior in portraying the vulnerability of those less powerful. Charmaine and Moses Chan
, who starred in both series, defended the popularity of both series.
Ratings wise the drama performed extremely well from the start, the first episode received an index rating of 34 points (2.14 million viewers) and peaking at 36 points (2.29 million viewers), breaking TVB’s 2003 record for a first episode. The second week of the series was better received, with a peak of 41 points for episode 6. It maintained a steady progress in subsequent weeks. Charmaine Sheh
also hoped that Beyond the Realm of Conscience, would break Jewel in the Palace’s record. For the final episode the series managed to receive 50 points for the scene in which the characters of Sam Ho and Ko Hin Yeung were reunited. The announcement that the drama attracted 1% more viewers than Jewel in the Palace, with 98% of viewers against the formers's 97%, pleased both drama's producer and cast, and meant that Beyond the Realm of Conscience finished as TVB's most viewed series for 2009.
42nd TVB Anniversary Awards (2009)
Won: My Favourite Female Character (Tavia Yeung)
Won: Best Performance of the Year (Tavia Yeung)
42nd Ming Pao Anniversary Awards 2010
Viewership ratings
External links
Television Broadcasts Limited
Television Broadcasts Limited, commonly known as TVB, is the second over-the-air commercial television station in Hong Kong. It commenced broadcasting on 19 November 1967...
productions to celebrate along with the channel's 42nd anniversary, the other being Born Rich
Born Rich (TV series)
Born Rich is a 2009 TVB television drama produced and created by Chong Wai-kin. The drama is promoted as TVB's "grand production", and largely features an ensemble cast, running for 39 episodes...
. The drama aired five days a week on the TVB network with 45-minute episodes starting October 19, 2009.
Set in the latter years of the Tang Dynasty
Tang Dynasty
The Tang Dynasty was an imperial dynasty of China preceded by the Sui Dynasty and followed by the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms Period. It was founded by the Li family, who seized power during the decline and collapse of the Sui Empire...
, Beyond the Realm of Conscience tells the story of palace maid Lau Sam-ho and her relations in the Imperial Palace, beginning with her experiences in the Imperial Household Bureau (尚宮局).
Plot
Gong Choi-king is forced back into the palace with her daughter, Lau Sam-ho and their servant, Yiu Kam-ling. Gong Choi-King comes from a very talented background of jewellery making, therefore she was assigned the task of making a beautiful, gold hairpiece in the shape of a phoenix, with a luminous pearl as the eye and the feathers of a river kingfisher as the tail for the Empress Dowager. However, during the Empress' daily walk around the imperial garden, the phoenix headpiece suddenly cries into tears of blood. Taking this as a sign of bad luck, she throws the hair piece away and demands the jewellery maker to be severely punished. Gong Choi-King suffers harsh beating as her punishment and eventually passes away. Before passing away, she tells Sam-ho to always remember the significance of her name. (Sam-ho literally means three goodness) She also tells her to help and work together with Kam-ling as if they are related sisters.Around the time of Choi-king's death, Dowager Concubine Cheng's son, Lee Yi (prince) encounters the six years old Sam-ho. He showed kindness to Sam-ho by giving her some white flowers from Choi-king's favourite tree (Chinese viburnum
Viburnum
Viburnum is a genus of about 150–175 species of shrubs or small trees in the moschatel family, Adoxaceae. Its current classification is based on molecular phylogeny...
s (瓊花) so she can take it to her dying mother. Empress Dowager was still very angry because of the hair piece and asked the new head of the Jewellery department, Yuen Chui-wan to shatter it. However, Yuen Chui-wan believed that the hairpiece is a one of a kind masterpiece, therefore she injures her own hand to protect it. She tells Empress Dowager that the hair piece is full of bad luck and if it is shattered all the bad luck will emmense into the air. Taking this as an advantage Empress Dowager forces Dowager Concubine Cheng to wear the hair piece and tells her because of her good spirit she can block the bad luck from the entering the palace. After a short period of time bad luck begins to happen to Dowager Concubine Cheng and her son Lee Yi. The story was told that Lee Yi fell off a tree, while trying to reach for his kite. The fall injured his head causing his brain to remain as a 6 year old boy forever. Lee Yi uses this mental illness as an excuse to escape the imminenet death threat from the Empress Dowager, Sam-ho gives him some sweet lotus seed candy to comfort him on the journey. Because of this, the young prince begins to develop a small affection for her.
The Imperial Household Bureau is responsible for managing and directing all household services to the Emperor and the Imperial family of the Tang Dynasty. It is made up of four departments, namely the Houses of Jewellery, Attire, Food, and Furnishing. Sam-ho and Kam-ling are introduced into the bureau in their childhood and are brought up as the disciples in the palace. The two girls are very diligent. Yuen Tsui-wan, Head of the Jewels, and Chung Suet-ha, Head of Attire, are both very fond of Sam-ho for she is a kind-hearted young girl and shows great capabilities in the decorative arts of jewellery and silk work. Both of them fight bitterly to have Sam-ho in their departments. In the end, Sam-ho is assigned to Department of Attire while, Kam-Ling is assigned to the Department of Jewellery.
Years later, Sam-ho meets Ko Hin-yeung, a palace scholar and also a chess teacher, the two shares a secret love compassion for one and another. The young prince Yi, has now grown up and he is returning to the palace. Later on in the series he becomes the Emperor after an evading assassinations with the help of Sam-ho and Hin-yeung. He promotes Hin-yeung as the Palace General because of his faithfulness. Sam-ho later becomes the Head of the Jewel Department. Even though the Emperor has deep feeling for Sam-ho and wants to have Sam-ho as his concubine, he decides to bury his feeling for her when he discovers that Hin-yeung and Sam-ho are deeply in love and they were planning to leave the palace together once the emperor was safe.
Sam-ho and Kam-ling continue to enjoy a very close friendship, treating each other as sisters and this provokes jealousy among other palace girl servants. Time and again some of them will try to get Sam-ho and Kam-ling into trouble. However, Sam-ho's honesty and kind attitude endears many powerful people in the palace and they always come to her aid. Whereas, Kam-ling uses her cunning mind to get rid of her enemies. As time passed, Kam-ling realised in order to protect herself from the bullying and to be able to survive in the palace she has to be someone who is powerful and respected. Therefore, she slowly works on a scheme to gain favour of the Empress Dowager Cheng, Yi's mother. She was eventually chosen as one of the Yi's concubines. From there she works on a bigger scheme to get rid of all her competitors, which eventually includes Sam-ho.
Lau family
| Cast | Role | Description |
| Yu Yang Yu Yang Yang Yu is a female Olympic medal-winning swimmer from the People's Republic of China. She became part of the Chinese national swimming team in 1999, and will compete for Team China at the 2008 Summer Olympics.-International debut and the 2000 Olympics:... |
Lau Chong-pai 劉松柏 |
Lau Sam-ho's father Died in Episode 25 (Poisoned by Head of Army) |
| Crystal Tin Crystal Tin Kristal Tin is an Hong Kong TVB actress. She has been married to Chapman To since 2005.-TV series:-Films:-Television presenting:-External links:* on Sina Twitter... |
Kong Choi-king 江採瓊 |
Lau Sam-ho's mother Died in Episode One due to wounds from the punishment. |
| Charmaine Sheh Charmaine Sheh Charmaine Sheh Sze-man is a Hong Kong TVB actress.Sheh is best known for her roles in TVB dramas, including Return of the Cuckoo, Country Spirit, Perish in the Name of Love, Angels of Mission, War and Beauty, The Dance of Passion,The Drive of Life, Maidens' Vow, Forensic Heroes II,Beyond the Realm... |
Lau Sam-ho 劉三好 |
Palace Maid→Assistant Head of Jewellery→Head of Jewellery Proceedings (Episode 14)→Concubine Tak (Episode 31) Go Hin-yeung's Wife (Episode 25) Lee Yi's Crush Leaves the palace and gives birth to Hin-yeung's daughter, sees him.(Episode 33) |
| Tavia Yeung Tavia Yeung Tavia Yeung Yi is a Hong Kong actress under Hong Kong's Television Broadcast Limited or TVB. She has starred in numerous popular Hong Kong television series such as Vigilante Force, Twin of Brothers, Dicey Business, Heart of Greed, Moonlight Resonance and Beyond the Realm of Conscience.- Career... |
Yiu Kam-ling 姚金鈴 |
Palace Maid→Assistant Head of Jewellery →Concubine Lai (Episode 16) Miscarriages (Episode 20) Kills Bo Gut-Chong in Ep.22 (Revealed in Ep.23) Frames Concubine Yin (Yin Fei) and her mother, Suen Ka-bik. Becomes mentally unstable in Episode 33 (Main Villain) |
Lee family
| Cast | Role | Description |
| Susan Tse Susan Tse Susan Tse was a former famous Chinese opera actress in Hong Kong. She is the 76th generation descendant of Confucius. This was confirmed by China's family tree study of Confucius according to her appearance on the TVB show Be My Guest.... |
Empress Dowager Guo Empress Dowager Guo (Muzong) Empress Dowager Guo , formally Empress Yi'an , was an empress dowager of the Chinese dynasty Tang Dynasty... 郭太后 |
Empress Dowager → Grand Empress Dowager Grandmother of Lee Chin Lee Jau's mother Died in episode 14 |
| Mary Hon Mary Hon Mary Hon is an actress from TVB in Hong Kong. She has appeared in many television series, such as Beyond the Realm of Conscience.-TV series:-External links:... |
Empress Dowager Zheng Empress Dowager Zheng (Xuanzong) Empress Dowager Zheng , formally Empress Xiaoming , was an empress dowager of the Chinese dynasty Tang Dynasty... 鄭太后 |
Concubine Dowager→Empress Dowager Lee Yi's mother Died in episode 32 |
| Eric Li Eric Li (actor) -TV series:-References:... |
Lee Jau Emperor Muzong of Tang Emperor Muzong of Tang , personal name Li Heng , né Li You , was an emperor of the Tang Dynasty of China. He reigned from 821 to 824. Emperor Muzong was the son of Emperor Xianzong... 李宥 |
Emperor Muk-Tsung Died in episode 2 (Villain) |
| Edwin Siu Edwin Siu -Discography:*2002: Born to Fly*2002: Edwin*2003: What Do You Want Me to Do *2005: Story -Films:-Television serial dramas:-Internet serial dramas:-Awards:- External links :... |
Lee Chin Emperor Wuzong of Tang Emperor Wuzong of Tang , né Li Chan , later changed to Li Yan just before his death, was an emperor of the Tang Dynasty of China, reigning from 840 to 846. Emperor Wuzong is mainly known in modern times for the religious persecution that occurred during his reign... 李瀍 |
Emperor Mou-Tsung Died in Episode 10 |
| Moses Chan Moses Chan Moses Chan Ho is an award-winning actor from Hong Kong. Having started his career working mostly on films, Chan has gained remarkable success in recent years while concentrating on his TV acting career with Television Broadcasts Limited... |
Lee Yi 李怡 |
Prince Kwong→Emperor Suen-Tsung Has a crush on Lau Sam-ho |
| Jeffrey Wong | Lee Chun 李峻 |
Prince of Qi Eldest son and heir presumptive of Emperor Mou-tsung but never Crown Prince |
Inner palace
| Cast | Role | Description |
| Susan Tse | Grand Empress Dowager Kwok 郭太皇太后 |
Killed by Head of Army (Episode 14) |
| Mary Hon Mary Hon Mary Hon is an actress from TVB in Hong Kong. She has appeared in many television series, such as Beyond the Realm of Conscience.-TV series:-External links:... |
Empress Dowager Cheng 鄭太后 |
Lee Yi's mother killed by Concubine Lai (Episode 32) |
| Tavia Yeung Tavia Yeung Tavia Yeung Yi is a Hong Kong actress under Hong Kong's Television Broadcast Limited or TVB. She has starred in numerous popular Hong Kong television series such as Vigilante Force, Twin of Brothers, Dicey Business, Heart of Greed, Moonlight Resonance and Beyond the Realm of Conscience.- Career... |
Concubine Lai (Lai Fei) 麗妃;also 姚金玲 |
Concubine to Lee Yi Episode 16 |
| Selena Li Selena Li Selena Li Sze-wan is an actress and former Miss Hong Kong 2003 contestant. That year, as a contestant from Toronto, Selena was the winner of Miss Talent and Miss Photogenic. Prior to entering the Miss Hong Kong pageant, Selena was attending the University of Toronto studying for a Bachelor of... |
Concubine Yin (Yin Fei) 賢妃;also 万宝賢 |
Concubine to Lee Yi Episode 16 Miscarriage and died in episode 31 (killed by Concubine Lai) |
| Charmaine Sheh Charmaine Sheh Charmaine Sheh Sze-man is a Hong Kong TVB actress.Sheh is best known for her roles in TVB dramas, including Return of the Cuckoo, Country Spirit, Perish in the Name of Love, Angels of Mission, War and Beauty, The Dance of Passion,The Drive of Life, Maidens' Vow, Forensic Heroes II,Beyond the Realm... |
Concubine Tak (Tak Fei) 德妃； |
Concubine to Lee Yi Married to Ko Hin-yeung in Episode 25 Later leaves the palace Episode 31 |
| Tracy Ip | Noble Concubine Wong Consort Wang (Wuzong) Consort Wang , imperial consort rank Cairen , posthumously honored Xianfei , was an imperial consort of the Chinese dynasty Tang Dynasty... 王貴妃 |
Concubine to Lee Chin |
| Mandy Cho Mandy Cho Mandy Cho Man-Lei is a Hong Kong beauty contestant and television personality.Cho studied in San Francisco, United States. She came back from her studies in 2003 and competed in the 2003 Miss Hong Kong Pageant. A favorite at the start of the competition, she made it into the semifinals and won the... |
Concubine Wai 惠妃 |
Concubine to Lee Chin Died in episode 9 (killed by Head of Army) |
| Lily Li Lily Li Lily Li is a Hong Kong actress.-Filmography:* State of Divinity * Centre Stage* The Young Master* Disciples of the 36th Chamber* Shatter* Shaolin Mantis* Challenge of the Masters... |
Tsui Ma-Ma 徐媽媽 |
Maid of the Empress Dowager Kwok Beheaded in episode 7 (Villain) |
Man family
| Cast | Role | Description |
| Cheung Kwok Keung | Man Gim-fung 萬劍鋒 |
General Father of Man Po-yin Paralysed in Episode 30 Married to Yuen Chui-wan in Episode 33 |
| Yvonne Lam | Suen Ka-bik 孫家碧 |
Man Po-yin's mother Cousin of Ma Yuen-zi Executed in episode 21 Was Accused For Using Dark Magic That Caused Concubine Lai's Miscarriage (Villain) |
| Selena Li Selena Li Selena Li Sze-wan is an actress and former Miss Hong Kong 2003 contestant. That year, as a contestant from Toronto, Selena was the winner of Miss Talent and Miss Photogenic. Prior to entering the Miss Hong Kong pageant, Selena was attending the University of Toronto studying for a Bachelor of... |
Man Po-yin 萬寶賢 |
Concubine to Lee Yi Daughter of Man Gim-fung and Suen Ka-bik Died in episode 31 (killed by Concubine Lai) |
Ko family
| Cast | Role | Description |
| Kwok Fung | Ko Yiu-On 高耀安 |
Palace Chess Teacher Hin-yeung's father Died in Episode 25 (Poisoned by Head of Army) |
| Kevin Cheng Kevin Cheng Kevin Cheng Ka-wing is a Chinese American singer and television actor from Hong Kong. He is currently an artist under the management of TVB. Kevin Cheng rose to fame in late 2004 after his first lead role in Hard Fate as "Ken"... |
Ko Hin-yeung 高顯揚 |
Palace Chess Teacher→Palace General Marries Sam-ho in Episode 25 Assumed to have amnesia due to incident in Episode 31 Loses his memory in Episode 33 |
Imperial household bureau
| Cast | Role | Description |
| Ching Hor Wai | Choi Jong-ping 蔡仲屏 |
Head of Palace Proceedings Retired and stripped of her status and possessions in Episode 19 Assumed dead due to terminal liver illness |
| Michelle Yim Michelle Yim Michelle Yim Wai-ling , also known by her Chinese stage name Mai Suet , is a Hong Kong actress. She graduated from St Rose of Lima College and Shaw Brothers' Training School.-Early life and career:... |
Chung Suet-ha 鍾雪霞 |
Head of Embroidery Proceedings→Head of Palace Proceedings (Episode 22) Marries Bo Gut-chong on his deathbed |
| Susanna Kwan Susanna Kwan Susanna Kwan Kuk-ying is a 1974-1987, 2006-Present Hong Kong female singer. She has recently been an actress for a number of TVB shows. Her nickname is "Big Doll" or "Small Sworn Mother" . She had been married to Lai Siu-tin followed by a divorce. In February 5, 1990 to January 1, 2006, she moved... |
Yuen Chui-wan 阮翠雲 |
Assistant Head of Jewellery→Head of Jewellery Proceedings (Episode 1)→Head of Furnishings (Episode 14)→ Head of Furnishings & Embroidery Proceedings(Episode 22) Married to Man Gim-fung in Episode 33 |
| Kara Hui Kara Hui Kara Hui Ying-Hung is a Hong Kong actress of Manchu ancestry.-Biography and career:Hui's family moved to Hong Kong in 1966 and she started working at night clubs at fourteen. In her interview on Be My Guest, Hui revealed her family lost their savings from her father's business acquaintances... |
Tam Yim-suen 譚艷裳 |
Head of Food & Beverages Proceedings Niece of Choi Jong-ping (Semi-Villain up to Episode 19) |
| Rosanne Lui | Wu So-yan 胡素恩 |
Head of Furnishings Proceedings (died in Episode 13, committed suicide) Tried to poison Yuen Chui-wan. |
| Yoyo Chen Yoyo Chen Yoyo Chen is a Hong Kong actress under TVB.-Biography:Yoyo was given her first TVB role in 2004 in the Sunshine Heartbeat... |
Chin Fei-yin 錢飛燕 |
Palace Maid Kam Ling's personal maid. Betray Concubine Lai to reveal her guilt to Lee Yi (Episode 33) (semi-villain) |
Servants in the palace
| Cast | Role | Description |
| Lee Kwok Lun | Ma Yuen-zi 馬元贄 |
Head Eunuch Eunuch A eunuch is a person born male most commonly castrated, typically early enough in his life for this change to have major hormonal consequences... Commander Imperial household troops(Villain) Cousin of Suen ka-bik Godfather of Concubine Yin Died in Episode 33 (stabbed by concubine Lai) (Main Villain) |
| Ram Chiang | Bo Gut-chong 布吉祥 |
Head Servant in the Palace Bo Siu-shun's Adopted Father Died in episode 22 (Killed by Concubine Lai) Married to Chung Suet-ha on deathbed |
| Vin Choi Vin Choi -Biography:After graduating from high school in 2001, Vin entered a contest hosted by TVB Weekly and won first place. He enrolled in the 18th TVB artists training course in 2002 and took on a few tiny roles.... |
Bo Siu-shun 布小順 |
Servant in the Palace The Mistaken son of Man Gim-fung and Yuen Choi-wan (Episode 24), later god son Bo Gut-chong's adopted son Chung Suet-ha's god son |
| Lau Dan Lau Dan Lau Dan is a Hong Kong actor.- Works :Lau is known to portray good characters, but could play cunning and sly characters with ease... |
Li Tak-yu Li Deyu Li Deyu , courtesy name Wenrao , formally the Duke of Wei , was an official of the Chinese dynasty Tang Dynasty, serving as a chancellor during the reigns of brothers Emperor Wenzong and Emperor Wuzong and their uncle Emperor Xuānzong... 李德裕 |
Prime Minister and Lee Chin's friend Died of illness in episode 27 |
| Leo Tsang | Physician Si 史太醫 |
The Royal Surgeon Bribed by concubine Lai to assist killing Suen Ka-pik, Man Po-yin and Empress Dowager Cheng Died in Episode 32 (killed on Ma Yuen-zi's command) (Villain) |
Characters
Lau Sam-Ho - Sam-Ho is a kind-hearted maid who took her mother and father's teachings to heart. Her parents taught her to speak kind words, do good deeds, and bear a kind heart. She always cares for and helps everyone in the palace to the best of her abilities. She is very close with Yiu Kam-Ling, with whom she has sworn sisterhood. She is the love interest of both Ko Hin-Yeung and Emperor Lee Yi. Sam-ho started her service in the Department of Embroidery, but was eventually promoted to be the Head of Jewellery Proceedings. She was later chosen as Lee Yi's concubines because she was pregnant with Hin-Yeung's child. Lee Yi made her his concubine to save her.Yiu Kam-Ling - Kam-Ling initially starts out as a maid in the Department of Jewellery. During her time in the department, she suffers and perpetrates back-stabbing and torture. Her suffering leads her to believe that she has to plot, manipulate, and formulate schemes in order to survive and avoid further suffering in the palace. She eventually marries Emperor Lee Yi and becomes his concubine. She continuously schemes to destroy her competitors. She eventually became delusional and insane after Emperor Lee Yi punished her with life long confinement to her palace pavilion for all her evil deeds.
Yuen Chui-Wan - In the beginning, Chui-Wan serves as Deputy Leader of Jewellery Proceedings. Her dedication and hard work are eventually recognized, and she is promoted to serve as Head of the same department. Chui-Wan is a self spoken, wise woman who never accuses anyone without proof. Throughout the series, she is made Head of Furnishing Proceedings and Head of Embroidery Proceedings. She is in a feud with Suet-Ha (Michelle Yim) because she accuses her of tampering with her food by adding an ingredient to which she was allergic. As a result of her sickness, she was not permitted to leave the palace with her lover, General Man. It is later revealed that she has a son with General Man. By series end, it's implied that Bo Gut-chong took their son out of the palace and left him in the care of an outside healer.
Chung Suet-Ha - Suet-Ha starts out as Head of Embroidery Proceedings. She mistakes Chiu-wan for sabotaging her many years ago, causing her permit to leave the palace to be revoked. As a result, she was unable to see her dying mother. This starts a feud between the two friends who have once sworn sisterhood. She always opposes Chui-Wan. They eventually reconcile their differences. She is later promoted to be the Head of Palace Proceedings. When she thinks that Chui-Wan killed her to be husband purposely, she begins to try to make Chui-Wan suffer and wants to get revenge for her to-be husband. They reconciled by the end of the series and remained friends.
Ko Hin-Yeung - The Emperor's personal guard. This role is assigned to him because of his loyalty to the emperor. He is skilled in martial arts, and even taught Lee Yi several moves that save his life. He also saves Emperor Lee Yi twice from the assassins sent by the previous emperor and the grand empress. He is the lover of Sam-ho and later marries her. They have a daughter in the last episode.
Historical Connections
Parts of the plot of the drama series are inspired or based on historical facts or beliefs.Dramatized Historical Figures
Empress Dowager Guo (Susan TseSusan Tse
Susan Tse was a former famous Chinese opera actress in Hong Kong. She is the 76th generation descendant of Confucius. This was confirmed by China's family tree study of Confucius according to her appearance on the TVB show Be My Guest....
) - Empress Dowager and Grand Empress Dowager Guo is based on a historical figure of the same name, who was in conflict with Empress Dowager Zheng.
Empress Dowager Zheng (Mary Hon
Mary Hon
Mary Hon is an actress from TVB in Hong Kong. She has appeared in many television series, such as Beyond the Realm of Conscience.-TV series:-External links:...
) - based on a historical figure of the same name, who was initially a maid of the palace, who went into conflict with Empress Dowager Guo.
Emperor Xuānzong of Tang
Emperor Xuanzong of Tang
Emperor Xuanzong of Tang , also commonly known as Emperor Ming of Tang , personal name Li Longji , known as Wu Longji from 690 to 705, was the seventh emperor of the Tang dynasty in China, reigning from 712 to 756. His reign of 43 years was the longest during the Tang Dynasty...
(Moses Chan
Moses Chan
Moses Chan Ho is an award-winning actor from Hong Kong. Having started his career working mostly on films, Chan has gained remarkable success in recent years while concentrating on his TV acting career with Television Broadcasts Limited...
) - based on the Emperor Xuānzong who succeeded Empress Dowager Guo's grandson Emperor Wuzong of Tang
Emperor Wuzong of Tang
Emperor Wuzong of Tang , né Li Chan , later changed to Li Yan just before his death, was an emperor of the Tang Dynasty of China, reigning from 840 to 846. Emperor Wuzong is mainly known in modern times for the religious persecution that occurred during his reign...
.
Emperor Wuzong of Tang
Emperor Wuzong of Tang
Emperor Wuzong of Tang , né Li Chan , later changed to Li Yan just before his death, was an emperor of the Tang Dynasty of China, reigning from 840 to 846. Emperor Wuzong is mainly known in modern times for the religious persecution that occurred during his reign...
(Edwin Siu
Edwin Siu
-Discography:*2002: Born to Fly*2002: Edwin*2003: What Do You Want Me to Do *2005: Story -Films:-Television serial dramas:-Internet serial dramas:-Awards:- External links :...
) - based on the Emperor Wuzong who succeeded his brother Emperor Wenzong of Tang
Emperor Wenzong of Tang
Emperor Wenzong of Tang , personal name Li Ang , né Li Han , was an emperor of the Tang Dynasty of China. He reigned from 827 to 840. Emperor Wenzong was the second son of Emperor Muzong and younger brother of Emperor Jingzong...
.
Emperor Muzong of Tang
Emperor Muzong of Tang
Emperor Muzong of Tang , personal name Li Heng , né Li You , was an emperor of the Tang Dynasty of China. He reigned from 821 to 824. Emperor Muzong was the son of Emperor Xianzong...
(Eric Li
Eric Li
Eric Ka-Cheung Li, GBS OBE JP is adjunct professor at the School of Accountancy of the Chinese University of Hong Kong and the School of Business of Hong Kong Baptist University...
) - based on the Emperor that preceded by Emperor Xianzong of Tang
Emperor Xianzong of Tang
Emperor Xianzong of Tang , personal name Li Chun , né Li Chun , was an emperor of the Chinese Tang Dynasty...
and succeeded by his son Emperor Jingzong of Tang
Emperor Jingzong of Tang
Emperor Jingzong of Tang , personal name Li Zhan , was an emperor of the Tang Dynasty of China. He reigned from 824 to 827...
, both not featured as characters in the series.
Consort Wang 王貴妃 (Tracy Ip) - based on the favourite concubine of Emperor Wuzong, Consort Wang (Wuzong)
Consort Wang (Wuzong)
Consort Wang , imperial consort rank Cairen , posthumously honored Xianfei , was an imperial consort of the Chinese dynasty Tang Dynasty...
王賢妃.
Ma Yuan Zhi (Lee Kwok Lun) - loosely based on a trusted and powerful eunuch of the time.
Chancellor Li Deyu
Li Deyu
Li Deyu , courtesy name Wenrao , formally the Duke of Wei , was an official of the Chinese dynasty Tang Dynasty, serving as a chancellor during the reigns of brothers Emperor Wenzong and Emperor Wuzong and their uncle Emperor Xuānzong...
(Lau Dan
Lau Dan
Lau Dan is a Hong Kong actor.- Works :Lau is known to portray good characters, but could play cunning and sly characters with ease...
) - based on the Chancellor Li Deyu
Li Deyu
Li Deyu , courtesy name Wenrao , formally the Duke of Wei , was an official of the Chinese dynasty Tang Dynasty, serving as a chancellor during the reigns of brothers Emperor Wenzong and Emperor Wuzong and their uncle Emperor Xuānzong...
of the time.
Historical Trivia
- Empress DowagerEmpress DowagerEmpress Dowager was the title given to the mother of a Chinese, Korean, Japanese or Vietnamese emperor.The title was also given occasionally to another woman of the same generation, while a woman from the previous generation was sometimes given the title of Grand empress dowager. Numerous empress...
or Grand Empress Dowager Guo was resented by Concubine Dowager or Empress Dowager Zheng, and they held a long term of conflict. - Grand Empress Dowager Guo tried to commit suicide as she failed to demand respect from Emperor Xuānzong of Tang and Empress Dowager Zheng. She tried to jump from the Qinzheng Tower, but failed. That night, she died somehow.
- In traditional history, Consort Wang was in the lesser rank of cairen instead of guifei as she was from a less noble background, and she and the Emperor probably loved each other.
- Instead of being sentenced to death by Empress Dowager Guo, in traditional history she committed suicide because she was saddened by the death of her spouse. She hanged herself.
- Li Yi is believed traditionally to have sought refuge at a Taoist monastery at some point, though this is not a confirmed historical fact.
- Li Yi was thought to have had low intelligence and confidence before he ascended to the throne. However, after he ascended to the throne he revealed his great intelligence and confidence.
- Emperor Wuzong did suffer during the latter part of his reign in health due to alchemists' pills. In the series, he was given a pill by the fictional huifei who thought it would work positively.
- Emperor Wuzong was killed by ambitious powerful eunuchEunuchA eunuch is a person born male most commonly castrated, typically early enough in his life for this change to have major hormonal consequences...
s that held immense power at the latter part of the Tang Dynasty, which was already nearing its end during the time setting of the series. The eunuchs in the series killed him to place Li Yi on the throne because they thought that he would be easy to control, true to history. - The Imperial Household Bureau was one of the six Imperial Bureaus of the Tang DynastyTang DynastyThe Tang Dynasty was an imperial dynasty of China preceded by the Sui Dynasty and followed by the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms Period. It was founded by the Li family, who seized power during the decline and collapse of the Sui Empire...
. - The series is set during the latter years of the Tang Dynasty, around about half a century before the Tang Dynasty's official end. The Tang Empire at this time was controlled by powerful, ambitious, corruptPolitical corruptionPolitical corruption is the use of legislated powers by government officials for illegitimate private gain. Misuse of government power for other purposes, such as repression of political opponents and general police brutality, is not considered political corruption. Neither are illegal acts by...
eunuchs, and the Tang Emperors gradually lost more and more power to the corrupt and powerful men. The Tang Dynasty reached its peak in culture and power during the reign of Emperor Xuānzong's ancestor Emperor Xuanzong's reign, before it was sent into decline by the An Shi RebellionAn Shi RebellionThe An Lushan Rebellion took place in China during the Tang Dynasty from CE December 16, 755 to CE February 17, 763, beginning when general An Lushan declared himself emperor, establishing the rival Yan Dynasty in Northern China...
during Xuanzong's reign. Emperor Xuānzong was an Emperor during the decline of the Tang Empire, and he was the last strong ruler of the Tang Dynasty. - In the television drama, TaoismTaoismTaoism refers to a philosophical or religious tradition in which the basic concept is to establish harmony with the Tao , which is the mechanism of everything that exists...
appears as the main religion of the imperial family. However, after Li Yi comes to the throne, BuddhismBuddhismBuddhism is a religion and philosophy encompassing a variety of traditions, beliefs and practices, largely based on teachings attributed to Siddhartha Gautama, commonly known as the Buddha . The Buddha lived and taught in the northeastern Indian subcontinent some time between the 6th and 4th...
becomes the main religion discussed by the characters in their dialogue, and Buddhist worshipWorshipWorship is an act of religious devotion usually directed towards a deity. The word is derived from the Old English worthscipe, meaning worthiness or worth-ship — to give, at its simplest, worth to something, for example, Christian worship.Evelyn Underhill defines worship thus: "The absolute...
took the place of Taoist worship Emperor Xuānzong revived Buddhist worship that was unsupported by the previous Emperors before him. - In history Empress Dowager Zheng outlived Li Yi and saw her grandson Emperor Yizong of TangEmperor Yizong of TangEmperor Yizong of Tang , né Li Wen , later changed to Li Cui , was an emperor of the Tang dynasty of China. He reigned from 859 to 873. Yizong was the eldest son of Emperor Xuānzong...
ascend the throne as a grand empress dowager rather than killed during the reign of Li Yi. As the eldest son of Li Yi, in fact, Yizong was born 14 years before Li Yi's ascending. But all through the series, Li Yi is kept childless.
Cultural Inaccuracies
- During the Tang Dynasty, there were actually few chairs. Within the drama, chairs can be seen excessively common.
- The Tang palace had six imperial bureaus. In the drama, food and clothing is prepared under the Imperial Household Bureau, while in fact they were prepared within their own, individual bureaus.
- Members of the imperial haremHaremHarem refers to the sphere of women in what is usually a polygynous household and their enclosed quarters which are forbidden to men...
would not have referred to each other as "sisters". - Parents of girls working as servants in the palace were not allowed to recognise their daughters.
- The JapaneseJapanese peopleThe are an ethnic group originating in the Japanese archipelago and are the predominant ethnic group of Japan. Worldwide, approximately 130 million people are of Japanese descent; of these, approximately 127 million are residents of Japan. People of Japanese ancestry who live in other countries...
chessChessChess is a two-player board game played on a chessboard, a square-checkered board with 64 squares arranged in an eight-by-eight grid. It is one of the world's most popular games, played by millions of people worldwide at home, in clubs, online, by correspondence, and in tournaments.Each player...
player is dressed in Japanese clothing from a later period in Japanese history.
Development
Since the successful KoreanSouth Korea
The Republic of Korea , , is a sovereign state in East Asia, located on the southern portion of the Korean Peninsula. It is neighbored by the People's Republic of China to the west, Japan to the east, North Korea to the north, and the East China Sea and Republic of China to the south...
blockbuster drama, Jewel in the Palace
Dae Jang Geum
Dae Jang Geum is a 2003 epic South Korean television series directed by Lee Byung Hoon and produced by MBC. Starring Lee Young Ae, it tells the tale of an orphaned kitchen cook who went on to become the king's first female physician...
, reached a final peak 50 rating points, and topped the chart in Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is one of two Special Administrative Regions of the People's Republic of China , the other being Macau. A city-state situated on China's south coast and enclosed by the Pearl River Delta and South China Sea, it is renowned for its expansive skyline and deep natural harbour...
in 2005, Hong Kong had been waiting for another breathtaking production to the likes of Jewel in the Palace. After In 2004, the highly successful TVB drama series War and Beauty gripped a huge audience and gained excellent ratings. Producer Mui Siu Ching, who is highly familiar to this type of Darker-plot, with her experiences in dramas such as Forensic Heroes
Forensic Heroes
Forensic Heroes is a TVB modern suspense series broadcast in June 2006 and the first installment of the Forensic Heroes series....
and The Brink of Law
The Brink of Law
The Brink of Law is a TVB modern action series broadcast in January 2007.-Synopsis:Tong Chi-Ko is a respected lawyer and the source of his father's pride; his father dreams of seeing his son becoming a crown attorney for Hong Kong...
, moved straight to commission this drama production which genre to costume series revolving around the conflicts and struggle within the inner palace. In late 2008, The Sale
Sales
A sale is the act of selling a product or service in return for money or other compensation. It is an act of completion of a commercial activity....
Presentation
Presentation
Presentation is the practice of showing and explaining the content of a topic to an audience or learner. Presentations come in nearly as many forms as there are life situations...
finally confirmed with a important casts. The more Casting
Casting
In metalworking, casting involves pouring liquid metal into a mold, which contains a hollow cavity of the desired shape, and then allowing it to cool and solidify. The solidified part is also known as a casting, which is ejected or broken out of the mold to complete the process...
then introduced at the costume fitting on February 17, 2009. The series was originally planned to start filming in December 2008, but the executives felt it had potential and so it became a grand production; filming was pushed to February 2009 with the script modified from the original 25 episodes to become 33, and new costumes were especially designed for the series.
The original working title known as Palace Schemes linked the story to scheming hearts of Ladies in the Royal palace. Although its Chinese title kept on the same meaning, Official English title changed to Beyond the realm of conscience,to prolific more catchy and lure more viewer. Furthermore, when initial script was first submitted, it was temporarily called Lau Sam Ho, represent Charmaine Sheh
Charmaine Sheh
Charmaine Sheh Sze-man is a Hong Kong TVB actress.Sheh is best known for her roles in TVB dramas, including Return of the Cuckoo, Country Spirit, Perish in the Name of Love, Angels of Mission, War and Beauty, The Dance of Passion,The Drive of Life, Maidens' Vow, Forensic Heroes II,Beyond the Realm...
's role. On the way to production after the sale presentation successfully release, The Script writer managed to change, possible for the current drama in contrast with its illustration. It led over 50% of storyline from the teaser to change as almost of scene in sale presentation not able to exist despite the main plot still provided. It yielded the some development in casting, costume, setting, character and screenplay as well.
Casting
The drama has a strong cast, led by Charmaine ShehCharmaine Sheh
Charmaine Sheh Sze-man is a Hong Kong TVB actress.Sheh is best known for her roles in TVB dramas, including Return of the Cuckoo, Country Spirit, Perish in the Name of Love, Angels of Mission, War and Beauty, The Dance of Passion,The Drive of Life, Maidens' Vow, Forensic Heroes II,Beyond the Realm...
as the protagonist. Two previous TVB award winning actors, Moses Chan
Moses Chan
Moses Chan Ho is an award-winning actor from Hong Kong. Having started his career working mostly on films, Chan has gained remarkable success in recent years while concentrating on his TV acting career with Television Broadcasts Limited...
and Kevin Cheng
Kevin Cheng
Kevin Cheng Ka-wing is a Chinese American singer and television actor from Hong Kong. He is currently an artist under the management of TVB. Kevin Cheng rose to fame in late 2004 after his first lead role in Hard Fate as "Ken"...
are also featured. TVB Best Supporting Actress 2008 winner Tavia Yeung
Tavia Yeung
Tavia Yeung Yi is a Hong Kong actress under Hong Kong's Television Broadcast Limited or TVB. She has starred in numerous popular Hong Kong television series such as Vigilante Force, Twin of Brothers, Dicey Business, Heart of Greed, Moonlight Resonance and Beyond the Realm of Conscience.- Career...
portrays her first villain role, which is also the most challenging role she has taken on for the past 10 years. Other experienced actresses starring alongside her as villains are Susan Tse
Susan Tse
Susan Tse was a former famous Chinese opera actress in Hong Kong. She is the 76th generation descendant of Confucius. This was confirmed by China's family tree study of Confucius according to her appearance on the TVB show Be My Guest....
(villain in Rosy Business
Rosy Business
Rosy Business is a 2009 award-winning Hong Kong television drama produced and by TVB. The original broadcast was on the TVB Jade network with 45-minute episodes airing daily from April 27 to May 29 in 2009...
), Michelle Yim
Michelle Yim
Michelle Yim Wai-ling , also known by her Chinese stage name Mai Suet , is a Hong Kong actress. She graduated from St Rose of Lima College and Shaw Brothers' Training School.-Early life and career:...
(villain in Moonlight Resonance
Moonlight Resonance
Moonlight Resonance is an award-winning 2008 grand production HDTV drama by TVB. It is an spiritual sequel to 2007's award-winning series, Heart of Greed featuring most of the original cast members. The series is written and edited by Cheung Wah-biu and Sit Ga-wah. Sponsored by Kee Wah Bakery, the...
) and Susanna Kwan
Susanna Kwan
Susanna Kwan Kuk-ying is a 1974-1987, 2006-Present Hong Kong female singer. She has recently been an actress for a number of TVB shows. Her nickname is "Big Doll" or "Small Sworn Mother" . She had been married to Lai Siu-tin followed by a divorce. In February 5, 1990 to January 1, 2006, she moved...
(villain in Heart of Greed
Heart of Greed
Heart of Greed was a 2007 grand production drama by Hong Kong's TVB. The reception was excellent for the series, and subsequently led it to win many of the TVB Anniversary Awards in 2007, including the 'Best Series' Award. It became 2007 highest rated series when it hit 48 points, within the final...
).
Selena Li
Selena Li
Selena Li Sze-wan is an actress and former Miss Hong Kong 2003 contestant. That year, as a contestant from Toronto, Selena was the winner of Miss Talent and Miss Photogenic. Prior to entering the Miss Hong Kong pageant, Selena was attending the University of Toronto studying for a Bachelor of...
is casted as Mun Bou Yin to motivate the young audiences. Unfortunately, two well-known actresses, Christine Ng
Christine Ng
Christine Ng Wing-Mei is a Hong Kong actress under contract to Hong Kong's Television Broadcasts Limited or TVB. Christine is known for her roles in TVB's dramas including "C.I.B...
and Fala Chen
Fala Chen
Fala Chen is a Chinese-American beauty pageant titleholder. Chen has held the titles of Miss Asian America 2002 and Miss NY Chinese 2004, and placed as runner-up in Miss Chinatown USA 2003 and Miss Chinese International 2005.-Education:Chen was born in Chengdu, People's Republic of China, in 1982...
, although casted at the Sale Presentation
Sales pitch
In selling technique, a sales pitch is a line of talk that attempts to persuade someone or something, with a planned sales presentation strategy of a product or service designed to initiate and close a sale of the product or service....
on October 15, 2008, were not involved in the drama. Rosanne Lui replaced Christine Ng
Christine Ng
Christine Ng Wing-Mei is a Hong Kong actress under contract to Hong Kong's Television Broadcasts Limited or TVB. Christine is known for her roles in TVB's dramas including "C.I.B...
and was casted as the Head of Furnishing, lead Kara Hui
Kara Hui
Kara Hui Ying-Hung is a Hong Kong actress of Manchu ancestry.-Biography and career:Hui's family moved to Hong Kong in 1966 and she started working at night clubs at fourteen. In her interview on Be My Guest, Hui revealed her family lost their savings from her father's business acquaintances...
to recast the role which Christine Ng originally assigned. Fala Chen
Fala Chen
Fala Chen is a Chinese-American beauty pageant titleholder. Chen has held the titles of Miss Asian America 2002 and Miss NY Chinese 2004, and placed as runner-up in Miss Chinatown USA 2003 and Miss Chinese International 2005.-Education:Chen was born in Chengdu, People's Republic of China, in 1982...
did not participate in the series with reasons unknown. Then Elaine Yiu
Elaine Yiu
Elaine Yiu Tse-ling is a Hong Kong television actress and presenter.-Career:Yiu entered the entertainment industry after winning the TVB8 Presentator Contest in 2002, subsequently signing a management and filming contract with TVB. From 2002 to 2004, Yiu hosted Mandarin-language television...
added to the cast, replaced her on December 12, 2009. Her role was finally given to Yoyo Chen
Yoyo Chen
Yoyo Chen is a Hong Kong actress under TVB.-Biography:Yoyo was given her first TVB role in 2004 in the Sunshine Heartbeat...
as a villain palace maid.
Location and costume
The series is set in Tang DynastyTang Dynasty
The Tang Dynasty was an imperial dynasty of China preceded by the Sui Dynasty and followed by the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms Period. It was founded by the Li family, who seized power during the decline and collapse of the Sui Empire...
's Royal palace, was only filmed in Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is one of two Special Administrative Regions of the People's Republic of China , the other being Macau. A city-state situated on China's south coast and enclosed by the Pearl River Delta and South China Sea, it is renowned for its expansive skyline and deep natural harbour...
unlike 2003's costume drama War and Beauty
War and Beauty
War and Beauty is a Hong Kong television series broadcast in 2004 on TVB Jade. It starred TVB Awards Best Actress winners Sheren Tang, Gigi Lai, Maggie Cheung and Charmaine Sheh, and TVB Awards Best Actor winners Bowie Lam and Moses Chan....
. The outdoor scenes were filmed in local parks and in the ancient street at TKO TVB City as the Imperial Palace. The hot weather and the presence of mosquitoes in the countryside during filming left two main casts, Charmaine and Kevin in the TVB van with Charmaine staying under an umbrella to avoid the sun’s heat. Though high rise buildings surround the parks reflecting off the water, but was removed post production.
Charmaine have 17 image and 30 set of custom-made costumes. The wigs for the male characters were not taken lightly as well. Kevin Cheng
Kevin Cheng
Kevin Cheng Ka-wing is a Chinese American singer and television actor from Hong Kong. He is currently an artist under the management of TVB. Kevin Cheng rose to fame in late 2004 after his first lead role in Hard Fate as "Ken"...
's wig with middle parting was made by the same master who crafted Tony Leung's wig in Red Cliff while Moses Chan
Moses Chan
Moses Chan Ho is an award-winning actor from Hong Kong. Having started his career working mostly on films, Chan has gained remarkable success in recent years while concentrating on his TV acting career with Television Broadcasts Limited...
's emperor wig was specially created with braided pattern. The wigs were so heavy for the female cast need to keep some painkillers handy during the costume fitting. As The height of the wig represent social status, Susan Tse
Susan Tse
Susan Tse was a former famous Chinese opera actress in Hong Kong. She is the 76th generation descendant of Confucius. This was confirmed by China's family tree study of Confucius according to her appearance on the TVB show Be My Guest....
who played The Grand Empress had the tallest wig as It took 3 hour daily for makeup and setting hairstyle. As The total of costume is about 250 set , The 4 departments have different flower embroidery on costumes while Embroidery department use Sared Lily and Pink color and Jewelry department uses Peony and blue color while Food and Beverage department uses Chrysanthemums and orange color as well as Upholstery department uses Lotus and green color. Susan and Moses emperor costumes alone took 2 month for the hand embroidery. The accessories used in the series mostly a neck band and the big head ornaments. Actress, Tavia Yeung
Tavia Yeung
Tavia Yeung Yi is a Hong Kong actress under Hong Kong's Television Broadcast Limited or TVB. She has starred in numerous popular Hong Kong television series such as Vigilante Force, Twin of Brothers, Dicey Business, Heart of Greed, Moonlight Resonance and Beyond the Realm of Conscience.- Career...
pointed out that the female cast in the series suffer from neck and shoulder pains, "The head ornaments are too heavy. So, by the time we finish filming the series, everyone will probably suffer from cervical vertebrae inflammation (swelling)! As soon as the head ornament goes on, our necks already have problems. Right now, my neck and shoulders are swollen. I have to apply ointment on them every night."
Format
The series is in a miniseriesMiniseries
A miniseries , in a serial storytelling medium, is a television show production which tells a story in a limited number of episodes. The exact number is open to interpretation; however, they are usually limited to fewer than a whole season. The term "miniseries" is generally a North American term...
format popular throughout East Asia
East Asia
East Asia or Eastern Asia is a subregion of Asia that can be defined in either geographical or cultural terms...
. It revolves around palace
Palace
A palace is a grand residence, especially a royal residence or the home of a head of state or some other high-ranking dignitary, such as a bishop or archbishop. The word itself is derived from the Latin name Palātium, for Palatine Hill, one of the seven hills in Rome. In many parts of Europe, the...
scheming, which has been featured in numerous TVB television series before Beyond the Realm of Conscience and also beyond Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is one of two Special Administrative Regions of the People's Republic of China , the other being Macau. A city-state situated on China's south coast and enclosed by the Pearl River Delta and South China Sea, it is renowned for its expansive skyline and deep natural harbour...
, China
China
Chinese civilization may refer to:* China for more general discussion of the country.* Chinese culture* Greater China, the transnational community of ethnic Chinese.* History of China* Sinosphere, the area historically affected by Chinese culture...
and Taiwan
Taiwan
Taiwan , also known, especially in the past, as Formosa , is the largest island of the same-named island group of East Asia in the western Pacific Ocean and located off the southeastern coast of mainland China. The island forms over 99% of the current territory of the Republic of China following...
in dramas from Korea
Korean drama
Korean drama refers to televised dramas, in a miniseries format, produced in the Korean language. Many of these dramas have become popular throughout Asia and have contributed to the general phenomenon of the Korean wave, known as "Hallyu", and also "Drama Fever" in some countries...
and other East Asian countries These series were made very popular in Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is one of two Special Administrative Regions of the People's Republic of China , the other being Macau. A city-state situated on China's south coast and enclosed by the Pearl River Delta and South China Sea, it is renowned for its expansive skyline and deep natural harbour...
possibly by War and Beauty
War and Beauty
War and Beauty is a Hong Kong television series broadcast in 2004 on TVB Jade. It starred TVB Awards Best Actress winners Sheren Tang, Gigi Lai, Maggie Cheung and Charmaine Sheh, and TVB Awards Best Actor winners Bowie Lam and Moses Chan....
, produced by TVB in 2004 also as an anniversary
Anniversary
An anniversary is a day that commemorates or celebrates a past event that occurred on the same day of the year as the initial event. For example, the first event is the initial occurrence or, if planned, the inaugural of the event. One year later would be the first anniversary of that event...
grand production. However, Beyond the Realm of Conscience is rather a series that carries the message that good (Lau Sam Ho, Charmaine Sheh
Charmaine Sheh
Charmaine Sheh Sze-man is a Hong Kong TVB actress.Sheh is best known for her roles in TVB dramas, including Return of the Cuckoo, Country Spirit, Perish in the Name of Love, Angels of Mission, War and Beauty, The Dance of Passion,The Drive of Life, Maidens' Vow, Forensic Heroes II,Beyond the Realm...
) always beats evil (Yiu Kam Ling, Tavia Yeung
Tavia Yeung
Tavia Yeung Yi is a Hong Kong actress under Hong Kong's Television Broadcast Limited or TVB. She has starred in numerous popular Hong Kong television series such as Vigilante Force, Twin of Brothers, Dicey Business, Heart of Greed, Moonlight Resonance and Beyond the Realm of Conscience.- Career...
. War and Beauty
War and Beauty
War and Beauty is a Hong Kong television series broadcast in 2004 on TVB Jade. It starred TVB Awards Best Actress winners Sheren Tang, Gigi Lai, Maggie Cheung and Charmaine Sheh, and TVB Awards Best Actor winners Bowie Lam and Moses Chan....
depicts the lives of four imperial concubines who all scheme to rise.
Beyond the Realm of Conscience tells the story of the life of a protagonist who struggles to survive in the palace
Palace
A palace is a grand residence, especially a royal residence or the home of a head of state or some other high-ranking dignitary, such as a bishop or archbishop. The word itself is derived from the Latin name Palātium, for Palatine Hill, one of the seven hills in Rome. In many parts of Europe, the...
, but rises in status through a kind heart. Beyond the Realm of Conscience, however, is far shorter in length. The television series is a costume drama
Costume drama
A costume drama or period drama is a period piece in which elaborate costumes, sets and properties are featured in order to capture the ambiance of a particular era.The term is usually used in the context of film and television...
, using elaborate costumes and sets to attract audiences. However, Beyond the Realm of Conscience also uses historical figures an events in its plot, such as Grand Empress Dowager Guo
Empress Dowager Guo (Muzong)
Empress Dowager Guo , formally Empress Yi'an , was an empress dowager of the Chinese dynasty Tang Dynasty...
.
Reception
Initial audience anticipation of the series before airing was mostly positive, reported as being a highly anticipated drama following its sales presentation. Some audience also looked forward to Tavia YeungTavia Yeung
Tavia Yeung Yi is a Hong Kong actress under Hong Kong's Television Broadcast Limited or TVB. She has starred in numerous popular Hong Kong television series such as Vigilante Force, Twin of Brothers, Dicey Business, Heart of Greed, Moonlight Resonance and Beyond the Realm of Conscience.- Career...
being cast as a villain
Villain
A villain is an "evil" character in a story, whether a historical narrative or, especially, a work of fiction. The villain usually is the antagonist, the character who tends to have a negative effect on other characters...
for the first time. Some viewers also criticised Charmaine Sheh
Charmaine Sheh
Charmaine Sheh Sze-man is a Hong Kong TVB actress.Sheh is best known for her roles in TVB dramas, including Return of the Cuckoo, Country Spirit, Perish in the Name of Love, Angels of Mission, War and Beauty, The Dance of Passion,The Drive of Life, Maidens' Vow, Forensic Heroes II,Beyond the Realm...
's character of "Lau Sam Ho" as being "too perfect" and therefore unrealistic.
Tavia Yeung
Tavia Yeung
Tavia Yeung Yi is a Hong Kong actress under Hong Kong's Television Broadcast Limited or TVB. She has starred in numerous popular Hong Kong television series such as Vigilante Force, Twin of Brothers, Dicey Business, Heart of Greed, Moonlight Resonance and Beyond the Realm of Conscience.- Career...
's acting skills initially received criticism from viewers saying that she was not "evil" enough for her role as "Yiu Gam Ling", however by the end of the series she won praise for her facial acting, which showed off her villainy. Her role as "Yiu Gam Ling" was a favorite to win the best actress award in the 2009 TVB Anniversary Awards
TVB Anniversary Awards (2009)
TVB Anniversary Awards 2009 is an award ceremony that celebrates the best in TVB programming of 2009. The award ceremony took place on December 4, 2009.-Best Drama:...
, however rather than Best Actress she won the awards for Best Performance and My Favorite Female Character. Netizens also strongly praised her character, which replaced the character of the Empress Dowager, portrayed by Susan Tse
Susan Tse
Susan Tse was a former famous Chinese opera actress in Hong Kong. She is the 76th generation descendant of Confucius. This was confirmed by China's family tree study of Confucius according to her appearance on the TVB show Be My Guest....
, as the lead villain in the series from episode 17. Charmaine also received praise for he acting, in particular in the final episode. The series also received acclaim from critics for its elaborate costumes and plot.
The comparison of the series to TVB's 2004 War and Beauty
War and Beauty
War and Beauty is a Hong Kong television series broadcast in 2004 on TVB Jade. It starred TVB Awards Best Actress winners Sheren Tang, Gigi Lai, Maggie Cheung and Charmaine Sheh, and TVB Awards Best Actor winners Bowie Lam and Moses Chan....
received much retaliation from fans. The plotting and scheming of the characters in Beyond the Realm of Conscience was repeatedly inferior to that of War and Beauty. Others argued that the series was superior in portraying the vulnerability of those less powerful. Charmaine and Moses Chan
Moses Chan
Moses Chan Ho is an award-winning actor from Hong Kong. Having started his career working mostly on films, Chan has gained remarkable success in recent years while concentrating on his TV acting career with Television Broadcasts Limited...
, who starred in both series, defended the popularity of both series.
Ratings wise the drama performed extremely well from the start, the first episode received an index rating of 34 points (2.14 million viewers) and peaking at 36 points (2.29 million viewers), breaking TVB’s 2003 record for a first episode. The second week of the series was better received, with a peak of 41 points for episode 6. It maintained a steady progress in subsequent weeks. Charmaine Sheh
Charmaine Sheh
Charmaine Sheh Sze-man is a Hong Kong TVB actress.Sheh is best known for her roles in TVB dramas, including Return of the Cuckoo, Country Spirit, Perish in the Name of Love, Angels of Mission, War and Beauty, The Dance of Passion,The Drive of Life, Maidens' Vow, Forensic Heroes II,Beyond the Realm...
also hoped that Beyond the Realm of Conscience, would break Jewel in the Palace’s record. For the final episode the series managed to receive 50 points for the scene in which the characters of Sam Ho and Ko Hin Yeung were reunited. The announcement that the drama attracted 1% more viewers than Jewel in the Palace, with 98% of viewers against the formers's 97%, pleased both drama's producer and cast, and meant that Beyond the Realm of Conscience finished as TVB's most viewed series for 2009.
42nd TVB Anniversary Awards (2009)TVB Anniversary Awards (2009)TVB Anniversary Awards 2009 is an award ceremony that celebrates the best in TVB programming of 2009. The award ceremony took place on December 4, 2009.-Best Drama:...
Won: My Favourite Female Character (Tavia Yeung)Won: Best Performance of the Year (Tavia Yeung)
- Nominated - Best Drama Top 5
- Nominated - Best Actor (Moses Chan) Top 5
- Nominated - Best Actress (Tavia Yeung) Top 5
- Nominated - Best Actress (Charmaine Sheh) Top 5
- Nominated - Best Supporting Actor (Lee Kwok Lun) Top 5
- Nominated - Best Supporting Actor (Ram Chiang)
- Nominated - Best Supporting Actress (Susanna Kwan) Top 5
- Nominated - Best Supporting Actress (Mary Hon)
- Nominated - Best Supporting Actress (Michelle Yim) Top 5
- Nominated - Best Supporting Actress (Selena Li)
- Nominated - My Favourite Male Character (Kevin Cheng) Top 5
- Nominated - My Favourite Female Character (Charmaine Sheh) Top 5
Asian Television Awards (2010)
- Nominated: Best Drama Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role (Susan Tse)
42nd Ming Pao Anniversary Awards 2010
- Nominated - Outstanding Actress in Television (Charmaine Sheh)
- Nominated - Outstanding Actress in Television (Tavia Yeung)
- Nominated - Outstanding Actress in Television (Susanna Kwan)
Viewership ratings
| Week | Episodes | Average Points | Peaking Points | References | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| October 19–23, 2009 | |||||
| October 26–30, 2009 | |||||
| November 2–6, 2009 | |||||
| November 9–13, 2009 | |||||
| November 16–20, 2009 | |||||
| November 23–27, 2009 | |||||
| November 28, 2009 | |||||
| November 29, 2009 |
External links