Choosing his battles

[Photo provided to China Daily]

For instance, he plans to tackle South China Sea disputes in upcoming productions.

"Film and TV have a responsibility to inform future generations about history," he says.

"Our industry should have the courage to voice Chinese sentiments and win more say in international media when our sovereignty in the South China Sea is violated."

Wu believes more subjects will become available for military-themed TV dramas to address.

Chinese TV has hardly touched upon the Korean War, for instance.

But this year's The 38th Parallel has become wildly popular since it depicts the war from not only a Chinese perspective but also remains neutral toward the Republic of Korea and United States.

"Our country now deserves the cultural confidence to review our past," he says.

"But an expansion of wartime dramas should never advocate bellicosity nor exaggerate individual heroism. They should tell people war is cruel, and we must cherish peace."

Contact the writer at wangkaihao@chinadaily.com.cn