Accessible documentary explores China before China

The last three episodes review the Shang (c. 16th century-11th century BC) and Zhou dynasties (c. 11th century-256 BC), their rise and decline, Bronze Age cultural — that of the Sanxingdui archaeological site in Sichuan province, in particular — political, ethical and ritual systems, and how they were involved in the process of the country's unification.

To make this brief history of early Chinese civilization work, the production team filmed some 230 archaeological sites and museums over the past three years, and these video clips will also be screened at 18 museums involved.

The Shanghai Media Group, which produced the series, will be working with Warner Bros Discovery on the production and promotion of its international versions, as the two sides signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation on Dec 9.