Ji Gong (TV series)

Ji Gong  is a 1985 Chinese mythology fantasy television series directed by Zhang Ge, and starring You Benchang and Lü Liang as the "Mad Monk" Ji Gong, a popular Chinese folklore figure from the Southern Song Dynasty (1127 – 1279).

Production
The character Ji Gong took inspiration from a popular Chinese folklore figure Ji Gong from the Southern Song Dynasty. You Benchang stated that Ji Gong is heavily influenced by Charlie Chaplin, the British silent film maestro. "First it is very humorous and comedic. Secondly it sincerely advocates sincerity, kindness and beauty. However, it does not ruthlessly beat the false and the evil but instead educates them, making them realize their faults and helping them to amend them. It is full of love and mercy, not only to human beings but to all creatures. It shows that everything can be taught to be good...Chaplin very much as he has taught me a lot about mime." he said.

Critical reception
The television series received positive reviews. In 1985, streets in towns and cities across China were expected to empty soon as people gathered in front of televisions to watch the hot TV series. The series has been replayed many times in the years since.