A new Chinese BL drama has officially entered development, with actors He Changxi and Jiang Xinxi (Andrew Jiang of BOYHOOD) confirmed as the leads in the live-action adaptation of Chusan’s “Liuyi Children’s Day“, the acclaimed novel by author Shi Xie Dian. The novel is getting a foreign TV/film adaptation, a Sino-Thai collaboration. Filming has started in Thailand and Malaysia. Expected to premier in Second Quarter of 2026. The project is already generating strong anticipation among viewers for its darker tone, mature storytelling, and complex character dynamics.
A Tense Story of Power and Unexpected Connection
The story is set in 1980s Hong Kong, when bully triads ruled the streets and corruption ran deep. The chaotic Snapdragon Walled City housed over a dozen gangs. Xia Liuyi, a golden hatchet man, runs a film studio to launder money under his boss’s orders. The film’s female lead is their sister-in-law. The male lead is a threatened popular star. Meanwhile, the director has only made X-rated films. Despite this, they still need an educated writer.
He Chusan is the only college student in the area. At first, he refuses the job. However, Xia Liuyi forces him into obedience, and Chusan becomes the film’s reluctant screenwriter. After finishing the screenplay, he believes he is free. But then, he finds a bloodied Xia Liuyi at his doorstep. This marks the start of an unlikely cohabitation. Together, they navigate fear, build trust, and face the dangers of the criminal world.
Character Breakdown
The Student (Protagonist)
He Chusan is quiet, rational, and anxious. Despite this, he shows surprising emotional strength. As a gifted writer, he is pulled into the criminal world against his will. His kindness becomes both a vulnerability and a strength. It shapes how he interacts with the wounded gang leader and gradually changes the balance between fear and empathy.
The Gang Leader (Love Interest)
Xia Liuyi is charismatic, unpredictable, and emotionally guarded. His violent upbringing shaped him into a feared figure. However, his injured arrival at Chusan’s home exposes a rare vulnerability. Initially, he seeks control. Over time, his reliance on Chusan creates tension and slowly transforms their relationship into a complex, intimate bond.
Plot Progression (Light Story Hints)
The drama begins with forced collaboration between Chusan and the triad, establishing a clear power imbalance. The turning point comes when Xia Liuyi collapses at Chusan’s home. As they live together in secrecy, trust slowly develops. Meanwhile, hidden motives surface, and the threat of the criminal world intensifies. Ultimately, the story explores how dependence and empathy transform fear into an intimate, psychologically rich bond.
Production Outlook
The studio officially announced the adaptation. More details about the supporting cast and release date will appear in the coming months. The creative team aims to preserve the novel’s psychological depth while adapting its darker elements for mainstream audiences.
BoysLove Insider will continue providing updates on casting, filming progress, and release announcements as more information becomes available.
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