PeachBlossomGoddess

Rose Finch unfolds like a dark, chilling, and morbidly sensational penny dreadful set in Republican-era Shanghai. The story opens with a bizarre and graphic double murder involving an elite showgirl at Rose Finch (Zhuque Pavillion/朱雀堂), the hottest nightclub in town. Detective Tang Zhenyun is hot on the case, enlisting the aid of talented forensic scientist Xia Mo. Their paths cross with Gao Ying, the enigmatic and deadly boss of Rose Finch, who alternately aids or obstructs their investigation as suits her agenda. She seems intent on uncovering who is murdering her "songbirds" while protecting her family's interests. Is Gao Ying friend or foe?

This is a fast-paced, gripping crime thriller that, with its 20-minute episodes, has no time to waste on romance or typical drama digressions. The plot remains tightly focused on one major case, delivering relentless momentum. It’s more violent than expected, unflinchingly portraying the lawlessness and rot festering beneath the era’s decadence.

Wan Qian anchors the narrative with her awe-inspiring portrayal of an inscrutable, powerful, and ruthless mobster’s daughter who lives by her own code. Being bad never looked so good! Zhang Cheng also impresses as the pugnacious, hot-blooded Detective Tang, always ready for a brawl. I was surprised to see Qin Junjie in such a haunted, nerdy, and low-key role, but as a team, this unlikely crime-solving trio clicks perfectly. My only gripe is the dead spouse trope, which feels a bit maudlin and out of place.

The ending has some mildly unsatisfying aspects—it’s dark, cynical, yet oddly fitting for the era. A fantastic short watch. 7.5/10.