Joey Wong Returns to Screen in NetEase AI Reconstruction

Quality over quantity: China’s AI microdrama producers battle viewer fatigue

Joey Wong, an iconic actress who stepped away from the spotlight two decades ago, has returned to the screen through an artificial intelligence-powered reconstruction rather than a traditional production.

In a two-minute video released by NetEase this summer, Wong’s celebrated roles were recreated, including the beautiful ghost from A Chinese Ghost Story and an alluring snake demon from Green Snake.

Wong was among the most well-known actresses of the 1980s and 90s, making the AI reconstruction a notable example of how the technology is being used to revive familiar screen images.

The development comes as China’s microdrama industry faces a more difficult challenge: standing out in a market saturated with productions that look alike.

Creators say the focus has shifted from making videos at low cost to producing work that can hold attention amid viewer fatigue.

The scale of AI production is already substantial.

More than 90 per cent of the 430,000 microdramas launched online in the first eight months of the year were AI-generated, according to the National Radio and Television Administration, China’s broadcasting regulator.

That figure shows why low-cost production alone may no longer be enough for creators competing in an increasingly crowded field.

As AI-generated microdramas become widespread, distinctive stories, recognisable performers and stronger production choices are becoming central to the fight for attention.

Source: South China Morning Post