Justifiable Defense

Synopsis

Justifiable Defense is a gripping Chinese crime drama that premiered in 2025, starring Gao Ye in a compelling lead role. The series delves into the moral complexities surrounding self-defense in the legal system, weaving a tense narrative of justice, ethics, and human fallibility. Gao Ye portrays a dedicated lawyer who takes on cases where the line between right and wrong blurs, challenging societal and legal norms. Set against the backdrop of modern-day China, the show combines intense courtroom drama with deep character development and suspenseful storytelling, inviting viewers to question what truly constitutes justifiable action under extreme circumstances.

Cast

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  Gao Ye

  Fang Lingyuan

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  Zhang Luyi

  Duan Hongshan

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  Bai Jingting

  Li Mufeng

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  Zhang Xinyi

  Lei Shuang

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  Zhang Baijia

  Mei Zheng

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  Ye Qing

  Jiang Ting

Reviews

Critics have generally praised Justifiable Defense for its thoughtful exploration of legal and ethical dilemmas. On Rotten Tomatoes, the show holds a respectable rating of 82%, with reviewers commending Gao Ye's nuanced performance and the series' ability to blend suspense with social commentary. The website's consensus highlights the show's "compelling narrative and complex characters that engage viewers beyond traditional crime drama clichés." IMDb users rate the show with an average of 7.8/10, noting its "intriguing plot twists" and "realistic portrayal of the legal challenges involved in self-defense cases." Metacritic scores the series at 74/100, reflecting generally favorable reviews. Some critiques mention that the pacing can be uneven at times, and certain plotlines may feel over-complicated, but overall, the series is acknowledged for its intelligent script and strong performances. The show's ability to provoke reflection on justice and morality has been particularly well-received, making it stand out in the legal drama genre.