Jia or Family in English, is one of the most widely read novels by Chinese literature giant Ba Jin. It has been again adapted into a TV series, with its main plot telling the love story between the young heroes, according to a report by the Beijing Times on Wednesday.

The photo published on Wednesday, December 26, 2007 shows leading actor Huang Lei and actress Li Xiaoran in the new TV drama adapted from "Family" by Chinese literature giant Ba Jin.

Family is among Ba Jin's most acclaimed novels and is one of his three semi-autobiographical novels known as the Torrent trilogy, composed of Family, Spring and Autumn. Written between 1931 and 1940 in pre-revolutionary China, the novel attacked the traditional Chinese family structure and depicted the struggles and tragedies, love and hatred of the young generation in a saga of family decline.

"Our version is not as depressing as the original story. It is modern and is catered for a younger audience," said the director Wang Jun at the press release in Beijing on Tuesday.

Starring familiar faces including Huang Lei, Huang Yi, Lu Yi and Li Xiaoran, the drama zooms in on the intricate relationships between the characters and sheds light on the resistance against feudal restrictions.

"We have to act as teenage boys, it is quite a challenge," said Huang Lei, a veteran actor who is 36 years old.

Huang Yi said she thought Family is a good chance for her to switch style because she has to play a virtuous wife whose life ends in tragedy. Huang Yi claimed her fame in the hit costume drama Huan Zhu Ge Ge, or Princess Pearl, for her fresh and energetic image.

The drama will meet the audience on January 10, 2008 during prime time through Beijing TV channel four.
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(CRI December 26, 2007)