Taiwanese TV Dramas Shine at Golden Bell Awards: Exploring the Transformative Power of "Living" and the Moral Complexities of "Port of Lies"The 59th Golden Bell Awards, Taiwan's prestigious television accolades, celebrated the exceptional achievements of two captivating drama series: "Living" (有生之年) and "Port of Lies" (八尺門的辯護人). Each production tackled poignant social issues, showcasing the remarkable talent and storytelling prowess of the Taiwanese television industry.

Uncovering the Resilience of the Human Spirit in "Living"

A Transformative Journey of Self-Discovery

"Living" follows the story of Kao Chia-yueh (高嘉岳), a man struggling with personal and professional setbacks who contemplates taking his own life. However, his return to his family home becomes a profound turning point, as he witnesses the unwavering determination and resilience of his loved ones in the face of life's harsh realities. This transformative experience compels Kao to reevaluate his own perspective on living, ultimately leading him on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

Celebrating the Unique Human Connections

The series' directors, Hsu Chao-jen (許肇任) and Lin Chih-ju (林志儒), drew inspiration from their own experiences growing up in Taipei's Wanhua District, infusing the narrative with a genuine and relatable human touch. The series' exploration of family dynamics and the unwavering spirit of its characters resonated deeply with audiences, earning it accolades for Best Television Series, Best Leading Actor, Best Leading Actress, Best Directing, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Newcomer in a Television Series.

Honoring the Performances of a Talented Cast

The series' standout performances were recognized with several awards. Wu Kang-ren (吳慷仁) was named Best Leading Actor, with the actor expressing his gratitude to the director for allowing him to truly understand the meaning of "living" through the filming process. Veteran actress Yang Kuei-mei (楊貴媚) won her third Golden Bell Award for her portrayal of a family member, further cementing her status as a revered figure in Taiwanese television.

Tackling Societal Complexities in "Port of Lies"

Exploring the Death Penalty and Marginalized Communities

In contrast, "Port of Lies" delved into the complex social issues surrounding the death penalty, as well as the exploitation and discrimination faced by indigenous peoples and migrant workers in Taiwan. The series revolves around a young Indonesian migrant fisherman who is accused of murdering his captain, an indigenous Taiwanese. The narrative follows the tireless efforts of an indigenous court-appointed attorney, an Indonesian woman, and the son of a judge to overturn the death sentence and uncover the truth.

Crafting a Compelling Narrative

Director Freddy Tang (唐福睿), a former attorney-turned-filmmaker, was recognized for his exceptional writing, earning the award for Best Writing for a Miniseries or Television Film. Tang, who also adapted the series from his own novel, emphasized that the key to a successful drama lies not in the budget, cast, or intellectual property, but in the ability to craft a story that resonates with the times and the audience.

Recognizing the Collaborative Effort

The success of "Port of Lies" was a collaborative effort, with the series being presented by Chunghwa Telecom and IP licensing company Mirror Fiction Inc. In 2021, the project received NT million (US3,383) in funding from the Ministry of Culture, further solidifying its status as a significant contribution to Taiwanese television.The 59th Golden Bell Awards showcased the remarkable depth and diversity of Taiwanese television, with "Living" and "Port of Lies" emerging as standout productions that captivated audiences and critics alike. These dramas not only entertained but also challenged viewers to confront pressing social issues, ultimately demonstrating the transformative power of storytelling in the medium of television.