Ha, yes, I was thinking "Wang Shi'an and Chen Moqun" as complex, interesting antagonists and then you mentioned them. But dramas have a slightly unfair advantage because we get to see the characters as well. I can easily imagine one-dimensional versions of Wang Shi'an and Chen Moqun, and I'm forever thankful that the actors and director made the best, three-dimensional choices. As you say, that's not unusual for Cdramas (but also not universal, as I watch more and come across more variety of characterizations - not all of them are as nuanced).

What also came to mind reading this excellent, thoughtful post is the Cnovel Peerless because thevetia and I keep discussing how the author manages to make the reader like and care about the protagonists, who are both flawed and have annoying personalities. (I always admire characters I like and am invested in while reading but am certain I wouldn't want to meet in real life. *g*) We haven't quite figured out exactly how it's done in the story, but I think part of it is the reader being able to see that the outward personalities aren't all that there is; each character has an inward life that may also be flawed but more sympathetic or understandable.