This review may contain spoilers
Give me Liberty or give me Death
Adaptation of Priest’s novel Silent Reading (《默读》)Justice in the Dark transports viewers into a dystopian future, set in the Xinyuan Civilization Year 253. In this sci-fi-inspired world, a mysterious gene mutation has created a group of individuals known as Zero-degree Empaths—highly intelligent and logical, yet utterly incapable of feeling emotions or empathy. Although they appear normal, their emotional void often drives them to commit disturbingly cold and calculated crimes.
At the heart of the story is Pei Su, whose father is one such Zero-degree Empath. Emotionally distant and manipulative, he subjects Pei Su to constant psychological abuse, using Pei Su’s mother as a pawn in his cruel parenting. In a final act of love and protection, Pei Su’s mother ends her own life—leaving behind a traumatized boy and a haunting case. This is when Luo Wen Zhao, a young police officer, enters Pei Su’s life for the first time. Though Pei Su accuses his father, Luo concludes it was suicide, a decision that would leave emotional echoes for years to come.
Many years later, their paths cross again. Luo Wen Zhao is now a leading investigator in the Special Investigation Department (SID). While handling a high-profile murder case, he uncovers a criminal organization connected to a string of killings—each involving Zero-degree Empaths. Pei Su, now an adult and shaped by both pain and intellect, joins the investigation. Together, they delve into a complex web of secrets and confront a mysterious figure known only as "The Janitor"—a vigilante determined to eliminate all Zero-degree Empaths.
More than just a crime drama, Justice in the Dark blends psychological tension, emotional storytelling, and speculative science fiction. At its core, the series explores profound themes such as trauma, morality, and the question of what it means to be human. Can someone born without empathy still choose to be good? Can someone who has been deeply hurt still learn to trust and love?
The series shines with outstanding performances, especially by Zhang Xincheng as Pei Su. His transformation into the character is nothing short of remarkable. I couldn’t see a trace of his previous roles in this portrayal—nor can I see Pei Su in Zhang Xincheng himself. It’s as if the character stepped straight out of the novel and onto the screen.
The cinematography is breathtaking, with visually rich and symbolic shots that elevate the narrative. The OST deserves special mention too—it perfectly complements the tone of the series. My personal favorites are "You Raise Me Up" and "All Right" performed by Liu Yuning—both emotionally resonant and beautifully delivered.
Each case in the series is engaging and well-paced. But what truly holds the heart of the story is the evolving relationship between Pei Su and Luo Wen Zhao—from tension and mistrust to an unspoken bond that runs deep. Despite censorship, the show gave us far more than we could have hoped for. Their subtle gesture and glances, meaningful dialogues, and emotional connection make them a true power couple. Watching them grow together is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming.
A heartfelt thank-you to the production team for giving us a satisfying, wholesome happy ending—something that’s all too rare in adaptations of this kind.
Justice in the Dark is not just the best adaptation of a BL novel I’ve seen so far—it’s a masterpiece. It’s a story that stays with you, one you’ll want to revisit time and again. It’s permanently on my rewatch list, and I’ll carry its characters and emotions with me for a long time.
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A strong drama, but the ending could be better
This drama tackles a very important yet rarely discussed topic in China – human trafficking, specifically the abduction of children and young women. The story follows police officer Hua Dengyan, who becomes the director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Office. Together with her team, she investigates missing persons cases, working to track down a figure known only as “Cripple,” the mastermind behind a regional trafficking network.For Dengyan, the mission is not just professional but deeply personal: twenty years earlier, “Cripple” abducted her friend Ranran right before her eyes. That event left a lasting scar and has driven her ever since to bring every missing person home and return their stolen life.
The first half of the drama is particularly strong. The portrayal of the Anti-Human Trafficking Office feels realistic—this isn’t one of those shows where the lead (à la Dilireba) single-handedly solves every case while others merely assist. Here, every team member plays a vital role in solving the cases. The structure also departs from the usual detective/police drama formula, where a new case begins only after the last one is resolved. Instead, several cases are investigated simultaneously, reflecting real police work more closely.
The cases themselves are brutal, emotional, and deeply affecting. It’s disturbing to see how cruel people can be, and at times it was painful to watch—yet it never felt gratuitous, and I know the real world can be far worse. Despite the darkness, there’s always a glimmer of hope. I think it’s important for dramas to shed light on such issues and foster empathy and understanding for the victims.
Unfortunately, towards the end, the storytelling becomes a bit sloppy, and the finale left me disappointed. I would have preferred a proper reunion scene between Ranran, her mother Miss Zhang, and Dengyan—perhaps even a flashback montage showing everyone they managed to bring home. Instead, we got an unnecessary propaganda speech that broke the emotional flow.
One thing I appreciated was the complete absence of romance. This kept the focus entirely on the cases and the victims’ stories, which I think made the drama stronger. My favorite subplot was the case of lawyer Sun and his missing son—it was especially moving.
The cast delivered solid performances overall. They looked and felt like ordinary people you might pass on the street—no superhuman abilities, no over-the-top fight scenes, minimal makeup. The only weak point for me was Jin Shijia’s character, Chang Rui; at times, he felt like an unnecessary addition.
Despite its flaws, I truly enjoyed this show and would recommend it to anyone interested in a realistic, emotionally charged crime drama that isn’t afraid to address difficult truths.
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Beauty in Imperfection
"Filter" – The Funniest Chinese Drama I’ve Watched!This drama is packed with humor and wacky situations while still feeling fresh and original.
Su Chengcheng is an ordinary girl struggling with insecurities about her appearance. Just when she hits rock bottom, she stumbles upon a high-tech, magical bracelet—a "filter" that allows her to change her appearance at will. As she experiments with her newfound ability, she crosses paths with her former high school crush, Tang Qi, who finds himself drawn to every version of her created by the filter. But what happens when the illusion fades?
Beyond its brilliant humor, Filter explores meaningful themes such as the beauty of imperfection, the contrast between outer and inner beauty, self-discovery, and self-love. The series delivers a deep message while maintaining its lighthearted charm.
Li Landi and Tan Jianci, along with the rest of the cast, do an excellent job of bringing their characters to life. There isn’t a single dull moment—from start to finish, it's full of laugh-out-loud scenes! With its compelling storytelling, relatable characters, and perfect balance of comedy and depth, Filter truly stands out as one of the best dramas of the year.
A hidden gem you shouldn´t miss!
✨ Quote:
Tang Qi: "I love seeing you all dressed up and made up, but I love your real, bare face even more."
Su Chengcheng: "I get it. No matter how much we dress ourselves up during the day, we have to accept and love our true selves. Only by facing our real selves can we truly enjoy life and embrace beauty."
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This review may contain spoilers
"I’m a demon. So what? Humans can be good or evil. So can demons."
The Demon Hunter’s Romance is an engaging fantasy drama that skillfully blends mystery, supernatural elements, and heartfelt romance. Set in the ancient city of Guangping, where demons live hidden among humans, the story begins with Ban Xia, a seemingly delicate young woman who possesses a rare ability: she can see through a demon’s human disguise.Her life takes a turn when she crosses paths with the enigmatic demon hunter and physician, Xuan Ye. Together, they embark on a journey to uncover the truth behind Ban Xia’s father’s mysterious “death.” Along the way, they solve a series of captivating demon-related cases, each more intriguing than the last.
What makes this drama stand out is not just the rich fantasy world, but the balance between suspense, emotion, and humor. From the very first episode, the storytelling hooks you in. Each case feels fresh, well-crafted, and meaningful—not just filler but crucial to the character development and the overarching plot.
Ban Xia deserves special mention: while she may appear gentle on the surface, she’s intelligent, brave, and emotionally resilient. Her strength lies not in overpowering others, but in staying true to herself and those she loves. Xuan Ye, too, is far more than a typical cold-on-the-outside hero. His backstory, slowly revealed throughout the series, is both tragic and powerful.
The chemistry between the two leads is remarkable. Their relationship evolves naturally, rooted in trust, shared danger, and unspoken longing. It’s a slow burn, but deeply satisfying—until the very end.
And that’s where my biggest disappointment lies: the ending. Despite the brilliant buildup and emotional investment, the finale left me heartbroken. Especially knowing that the original novel had a happy ending, the drama's conclusion felt unnecessarily cruel. It left a bitter aftertaste to an otherwise beautifully told story.
The supporting characters also deserve credit—they’re well-written and memorable, each contributing to the narrative in meaningful ways.
Verdict:
If you enjoy fantasy dramas with depth, mystery, emotional storytelling, and a touch of the supernatural, The Demon Hunter’s Romance is absolutely worth watching. Just be emotionally prepared for the finale.
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This review may contain spoilers
Agents of the Justice
Coroner’s Diary tells the gripping tale of Shen Wan, the daughter of Shen Yi, a high-ranking official of the Supreme Court. After her entire family is tragically massacred due to their alleged involvement in a case tied to Prince Jin and the royal power struggle, Shen Wan escapes to Jingzhou under the guise of Qin Wan, the Ninth Lady of the Qin family.Gifted in medicine and skilled in forensic autopsies, Shen Wan is determined to root out injustice and clear her father's name. In Jingzhou, she crosses paths with Yan Chi, the crown prince of King Rui, who is himself entangled in the political turmoil surrounding the case of Prince Jin. Impressed by Shen Wan’s intelligence, skills and integrity, the two join forces—bound by a shared sense of justice—to uncover the truth buried deep within palace conspiracies, solving one crime after another along the way.
The drama consistently emphasizes the primacy of law: no matter one’s status, every crime must be judged fairly and legally. Autopsies are shown as a vital means of giving voice to the victims—allowing truth to be heard beyond death. The forensic and investigative aspects of the show are handled with both respect and realism. Each case is well constructed and resolved (though there is still room for improvement), keeping viewers thoroughly engaged, particularly during the earlier investigations set outside the capital.
The true highlight of the series for me, however, lies in the relationship between the leads—Shen Wan (Qin Wan) and Yan Chi. Their partnership is built on mutual respect, trust, commitment and unwavering support. From start to finish, their bond remains strong and drama-free—no petty misunderstandings or unnecessary conflicts. They stand side by side as equals, communicating openly and facing every challenge together. Yan Chi, as portrayed by Ao Ruipeng, is almost too good to be true—a man of unwavering respect and love, the kind every woman would dream of having by her side. Ao Ruipeng delivers a standout performance, especially in the action scenes, which are both polished and intense.
Li Landi also impresses as Shen Wan, bringing to life a smart, capable, and composed woman who never wavers in the face of adversity. The supporting characters—Yue Ning, Yan Li, Bai Feng, Fuling, and others—each add their own charm and dimension to the story.
The series concludes on a high note: not only do Shen Wan and Yan Chi end up together, but they continue working side by side, solving cases and upholding justice. It’s a more meaningful resolution than just a romantic union—it’s a lasting promise of order and righteousness. As long as they’re around, justice will prevail.
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As long as you did it, there would be traces
This drama centers around solving arson-related cases. While one overarching mystery runs through the entire series, each episode also features individual case stories, each with its own intriguing plot and emotional depth.Xu Tongsheng lost both of his parents in a fire explosion. Although the case was officially closed as an accident, he has always believed it was murder. Driven by this conviction, he becomes a fire investigator in hopes of uncovering the truth about what really happened that day.
After the loss of his parents, Xu was sent to an orphanage, where he met Jin Chun. Her mother runs the orphanage, and the two essentially grew up together like siblings. Jin Chun later becomes a coroner for the police.
At the start of the first case, Xu Tongsheng crosses paths with police officer Shen Ye. To his shock, Shen Ye turns out to be He Xi—his childhood friend who he believed had perished in the same fire that killed his parents.
As a result of the increasing number of fire-related incidents, a joint task force is created between the fire investigation unit and the police department. Xu Tongsheng, Jin Chun, and Shen Ye (He Xi) become an unshakable trio—an “iron triangle”—working together to solve cases and uncover the hidden truth behind the past.
What makes this drama particularly special to me, beyond the well-written and well-acted case stories, is the absence of romance between the three leads. Instead, it focuses on pure camaraderie and genuine friendship—something that is rarely seen in Chinese dramas and therefore feels especially refreshing.
Rather than romantic entanglements, the story puts the spotlight on parent-child relationships, such as the complex relationship between Jin Chun and her mother or between Shen Ye (He Xi) and his “father.”
That said, there are still a few subtle moments where one could find themselves shipping Xu Tongsheng and Shen Ye (He Xi)—but it's never the main focus. The emotional tension and trust between them are portrayed in a way that leaves space for interpretation, which adds even more depth to their connection.
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The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call
An unexpectedly pleasant surprise! This series is packed with dynamic action, striking a perfect balance between seriousness and humor.At the heart of the story is Baek Gang-hyeok, a genius trauma surgeon who has spent years performing surgeries in war zones like Syria and Afghanistan. He is appointed to lead the trauma department at a university hospital—a job no one else wanted. There, he meets the young and eager doctor Yang Jae-won, whom he takes under his wing. Alongside them, the core trauma team includes nurse Cheon Jang-mi and anesthesiology resident Park Gyeong-won. These four dedicate themselves fully to saving lives, no matter the circumstances.
Every character in this drama is so well-developed. In particular, I really appreciate the strong, skilled, and determined Dr. Baek Gang-hyeok. He is straightforward, charismatic, and just plain cool. His relentless dedication to saving every patient in front of him is truly admirable—he's practically a god in the operating room. His dynamic relationship with Yang Jae-won (aka "Anus" and "No. 1" 😂) adds both depth and humor to the story, making their interactions a joy to watch.
The surgical scenes are incredibly well-executed and feel remarkably realistic, adding to the overall intensity of the show. The fast pace, frequent emergencies, and non-stop action make The Trauma Code an exhilarating ride from start to finish.
Eight episodes just aren’t enough! I'm really hoping for a second season, with the entire team returning for more life-saving missions.
Yang Jae-won: "Why did you choose me of all people?"
Dr. Baek: "It’s simple. Because you’re a good runner. Every time I saw you, you were running. Running to save a patient."
And indeed, they were running—a lot! That’s one of the reasons this series feels so dynamic and intense.
This series will definitely be worth your time!
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