The Defective

Synopsis

The Defective (Original title: 残次品·放逐星空) is a 2021 Chinese sci-fi thriller series starring Shen Lei. Set in a dystopian future where humanity faces existential threats amid cosmic dangers, the show follows a daring protagonist maneuvering through a harsh universe filled with political intrigue, advanced technology, and moral ambiguity. Combining elements of space exploration, survival, and complex human relationships, The Defective explores the resilience of the human spirit against overwhelming odds. With its rich visual effects, suspenseful storytelling, and deep character development, the series offers a compelling narrative that pushes the boundaries of the sci-fi genre in Chinese television.

Cast

• 

  Shen Lei

  Lin Jingheng (voice)

• 

  Liang Dawei

  Bixing Lu (voice)

• 

  Yajing Tang

  Penny / Pang Dajie (voice)

Reviews

The Defective has elicited a mixed yet generally positive response from critics and viewers alike. On IMDb, it holds a score of 7.3/10, reflecting appreciation for its ambitious storytelling and impressive visual effects. Reviewers on Rotten Tomatoes praised the series for its 'gritty atmosphere and thought-provoking themes,' though some criticized its pacing, describing it as 'sometimes uneven.' Metacritic scores average around 68, with critics acknowledging the show’s strong production values and character depth but noting that the complexity of its plot can be challenging for casual audiences. A review by The Hollywood Reporter highlighted Shen Lei's compelling performance, stating, 'Shen Lei brings necessary gravitas to the series, elevating what could have been a standard sci-fi thriller.' Conversely, some reviews from fans pointed out that certain narrative arcs felt 'overly convoluted,' making it difficult to follow. Overall, The Defective stands out for pushing Chinese sci-fi forward, blending cinematic quality with thematic ambition, though it may require viewers to engage deeply to fully appreciate its nuances.