Jin's latest documentary venture is backed up by a stellar cast as he believes only veteran actors can bring to life the key roles in the chaotic era which, in his own words, is the childhood of the Chinese civilization – and every single Chinese today carries a cultural DNA of that age.

The production team did meticulous research before and during shooting to ensure that costumes, make-up, props and equipment appearing before the camera are all in tandem with historical materials and unearthed artifacts.

But he gave free reign to the costume designers' selection of colors for the ruling classes and citizens of the seven kingdoms "to reflect their distinctive temperaments and social characteristics".