Revisiting the Top 10 Iconic Films of Zhao Jinmai

Mention Zhao Jinmai, and fans of Chinese cinema will instantly recall the vibrant and dynamic young actress. Today, let’s explore her top 8 must-watch films!

1 The Princess Royal – Degree of Youth (2024)

The Princess Royal – Degree of Youth (2024)

IMDb Rating: 7.2/10

Release Date: June 26, 2024

Genre: Romance, Historical

Episodes: 40

Country: China

Director: Go Yik Chun

Starring: Zhao Jinmai, Zhang Linghe

Notable Awards: Pending

Streaming Link: Netflix

Degree of Youth is adapted from the novel The Princess Royal, starring Zhao Jinmai and Zhang Linghe. The story follows Princess Li Yong (Zhao Jinmai) and Chancellor Pei Wenxu (Zhang Linghe), who marry for political reasons without love. After 30 years of conflict and power struggles, they die at each other’s hands. Reborn at age 18 with memories of their past lives, they start anew, seizing a second chance.

2 Amidst a Snowstorm of Love (2024)

Amidst a Snowstorm of Love (2024)

IMDb Rating: 7.9/10

Release Date: February 2, 2024

Genre: Romance

Episodes: 30

Country: China

Director: Huang Tianren

Starring: Zhao Jinmai, Leo Wu

Notable Awards: Pending

Streaming Link: Netflix

This romantic drama centers on the love story and youthful dreams of two pool prodigies, Lin Yuyang (Leo Wu) and N Guo (Zhao Jinmai). They meet during a snowstorm in a strange city. At first sight, Lin Yuyang feels a strong connection and falls for N Guo. After a controversial incident derails his career, their encounter reignites his passion for pool and inspires him to pursue his dreams.

3 Stand by Me – Those Were the Days (2023)

Stand by Me – Those Were the Days (2023)

IMDb Rating: 9.4/10

Release Date: September 16, 2023

Genre: Romance

Episodes: 30

Country: China

Director: Tong Hua

Starring: Zhao Jinmai, Bai Yufan

Notable Awards: Pending

Streaming Link: Pending

Adapted from Tong Hua’s novel, this coming-of-age story follows Luo Qiqi, a girl growing up in the 1990s who transforms from an ordinary student into an exceptional individual through hard work. She meets two influential men: Zhang Jun, her unrequited love for six years, and Xu Xiaoba, her supportive neighbor. Their relationships shape her journey to adulthood.

4 Growing Pain Season 2 (2022)

Growing Pain Season 2 (2022)

IMDb Rating: 6.9/10

Release Date: July 21, 2022

Genre: Family, Drama

Episodes: 40

Country: China

Director: Li Shaofeng

Starring: Zhao Jinmai, Guo Junchen, Jiang Kuanong

Notable Awards: Pending

Streaming Link: Pending

This heartfelt series follows four friends—Lin Miaomiao (Zhao Jinmai), Qian Sanyiyi, Jiang Tianhao, and Deng Xiaoxi—as they face post-graduation challenges. From academic pressure to career struggles, the show highlights their resilience and growth, delivering a message of perseverance and self-belief.

5 One Week Friends (2022)

One Week Friends (2022)

IMDb Rating: 6.1/10

Release Date: June 18, 2022

Genre: Friendship, Drama

Runtime: 106 minutes

Country: China

Director: Lin Xiaoshen

Starring: Zhao Jinmai, Lin Yi

Notable Awards: Pending

Streaming Link: Pending

Based on a Japanese manga, this film stars Zhao Jinmai as Lin Xiangzhi, a girl with a rare condition causing her to forget friendships after seven days. When Xu Yushu (Lin Yi) transfers to her school, his kindness warms her heart. Together, they navigate youth, but Xiangzhi’s secret adds depth to their story.

6 Reset (2022)

Reset (2022)

IMDb Rating: 8.1/10

Release Date: January 11, 2022

Genre: Sci-Fi, Psychological

Episodes: 15

Country: China

Director: Sun Mulong

Starring: Zhao Jinmai, Bai Jingting, Zhao Jinmai, Liu Yi Jun

Notable Awards: Pending

Streaming Link: Pending

Adapted from Ji Dao Jun’s novel, Reset explores a unique time loop concept. College student Li Shiqing (Zhao Jinmai) and programmer Xiao He Yun (Bai Jingting) meet on a bus destined to explode. Each explosion resets time, and together, they uncover the truth and save the passengers.

7 Brilliant Girls (2021)

Brilliant Girls (2021)

IMDb Rating: 5.6/10

Release Date: January 11, 2021

Genre: Romance

Episodes: 43

Country: China

Director: Ren Lu

Starring: Zhao Jinmai, Song Yi, En Dao

Notable Awards: Pending

Streaming Link: WeTV

Adapted from the manga Sáp Nữ Lang, this series follows five girls living together, each with unique views on love. Through conflicts and triumphs, they find support in one another, discovering happiness in their individual journeys.

8 The Blessed Girl – Ling Long (2021)

The Blessed Girl – Ling Long (2021)

IMDb Rating: 7.9/10

Release Date: January 29, 2021

Genre: Romance

Episodes: 40

Country: China

Director: Shi Li

Starring: Zhao Jinmai, Lin Yi

Notable Awards: Pending

Streaming Link: Pending

Set in the mystical land of Su Chuan, Ling Long tells the story of Yuan Yi (Lin Yi), a young king seeking to restore peace by finding Ling Long (Zhao Jinmai), a girl with divine power. Ling Long, raised by her father, joins Yuan Yi on a quest to save their world.

These are Zhao Jinmai’s most memorable roles. We hope you find a favorite to enjoy with friends and family!