The Wanted Detective

Synopsis

The Wanted Detective (定风波), starring Wang Xingyue, is a gripping 2025 crime thriller series that blends intricate mystery-solving with deep character exploration. Set in a bustling modern metropolis, the story follows a keen-minded detective who uses unconventional methods to unravel complex cases, often challenging societal norms and the legal system. As he delves deeper into the criminal underworld, secrets about his own past come to light, adding emotional depth and intensity to the narrative. The show stands out for its compelling storytelling, sharp dialogue, and a nuanced portrayal of justice, making it a must-watch for fans of intelligent detective dramas.

Cast

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  Wang Xingyue

  Xiao Beiming

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  Xiang Hanzhi

  Zhong Xueman

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  Chen Youwei

  Feng Qingzhu

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  Zhang Nan

  Huo Dairong

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  He Luoluo

  Tong Shuang

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  Deng Kai

  Zhuge Kongyun

Reviews

The Wanted Detective has received generally favorable reviews from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, it holds a solid rating of 8.0/10 based on thousands of user reviews, highlighting Wang Xingyue’s compelling performance and the series’ intricate plot structure. Rotten Tomatoes has an audience score of 85%, praising the show's suspenseful storytelling and character development, although some critics noted pacing issues in mid-season episodes. Metacritic provides a Metascore of 75, indicating generally favorable reviews, with critics appreciating the blend of traditional detective work and modern narrative techniques. Variety remarked, "A refreshing take on the detective genre, with a standout lead performance and smart, engaging scripts." However, The Hollywood Reporter mentioned, "While innovative, the series occasionally struggles with uneven pacing, which could test viewer patience." Overall, The Wanted Detective is celebrated for elevating Chinese crime drama with impressive production values and a strong, charismatic lead role.