Zhang Li, who was born as a photographer, made a sudden appearance in TV drama. His directorial debut "Towards the Republic" pushed his TV career to the peak with his unique interpretation of history. Between photography and directing, movies and TV series, Zhang Li can switch freely. He does not regard TV plays as improper art, nor does he regard movies as his ultimate feelings. This is Zhang Li's alternative survival rule (Tencent Entertainment Review).

Starting from Towards the Republic, Zhang Li's works always have different perspectives and interpretations of that period of history and people. Strong picture language, profound lines and performances have always been the representative features of Zhang Li's works. His plays are full of feelings of "home country", but those feelings are full of reflection rather than conventional preaching (Sohu Entertainment Review). Zhang Li's works pay attention to the spirit and the grand theme of the times, and are famous in the industry for their heavy style and exquisite texture (Sina Entertainment Review).

Zhang Li's works always attract many audiences because of his close-range shooting techniques and strong reflection on history. He is good at interpreting history from modern context (commenting on Shenzhen Special Zone Daily).