Chinese suspense TV dramas often blend elements of crime, mystery, and psychological intrigue with rich storytelling and intricate plots. Here’s a list of ten highly recommended Chinese suspense dramas that are worth watching:
1. Day and Night (2017)
- Premise: A crime thriller about a detective who is investigating a complex case involving a mysterious murder and the dark secrets of the suspects.
- Notable For: Its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and the strong performances by the cast.
2. The Longest Day in Chang’an (2019)
- Premise: Set during the Tang Dynasty, this historical suspense drama follows a former detective and a young constable as they uncover a plot to destroy the city of Chang’an within a single day.
- Notable For: Its meticulous historical detail, intense plot, and high production values.
3. The Bad Kids (2020)
- Premise: This psychological thriller revolves around three children who accidentally witness a crime and become entangled in a dangerous conspiracy as they try to escape their predicament.
- Notable For: Its suspenseful storytelling, intense atmosphere, and strong performances by the cast.
4. The Sleuth of the Ming Dynasty (2020)
- Premise: Set in the Ming Dynasty, this drama follows a brilliant but unconventional detective as he solves crimes and uncovers corruption in a corrupt society.
- Notable For: Its intriguing mysteries, historical setting, and the charismatic lead performance.
5. A Murderous Affair in Horizon Tower (2021)
- Premise: A murder occurs in a high-rise building, leading to an investigation that uncovers hidden motives and secrets among the residents.
- Notable For: Its tightly woven plot, suspenseful twists, and the exploration of human psychology.
6. Love Me If You Dare (2015)
- Premise: A psychological thriller about a brilliant criminal psychologist who teams up with a detective to solve a series of brutal murders linked to a mysterious case from his past.
- Notable For: Its gripping plot, complex character relationships, and the chemistry between the leads.
7. Secret Forest (2017)
- Premise: This legal thriller follows a prosecutor who uncovers a web of corruption and crime involving his colleagues and powerful figures, while dealing with his own emotional detachment.
- Notable For: Its sharp writing, strong performances, and compelling exploration of the legal system.
8. The Rise of Phoenixes (2018)
- Premise: Set in a fictional ancient kingdom, this drama blends political intrigue and suspense as a woman disguises herself as a man to seek revenge and uncover the truth about her family.
- Notable For: Its intricate plot, strong character development, and beautiful historical setting.
9. Detective Chinatown (2020)
- Premise: Follows a group of detectives solving crimes in various locations, with a focus on mystery and suspense as they unravel complex cases.
- Notable For: Its entertaining mix of crime-solving, humor, and suspenseful twists.
10. The Disguiser (2015)
- Premise: Set during World War II, this drama follows a spy who must navigate dangerous political intrigues and uncover hidden enemies while maintaining his cover.
- Notable For: Its historical context, suspenseful plot, and the tension of undercover operations.
These dramas offer a range of suspenseful and thrilling experiences, from historical settings and psychological mysteries to intricate crime plots, showcasing the diversity of Chinese television in the suspense genre.
