Beneath the Undertow (2025)
A gripping Chinese crime drama where two mismatched detectives unravel a dark murder mystery rooted in buried secrets.
Beneath the Undertow - Series Information
- Original Title: 暗潮缉凶
- First Air Year: 2025
- Last Air Year: 2025
- Created by: Chen Zhuo
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama, Crime
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 19
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Chinese
- Spoken Languages: Mandarin
- Networks: iQiyi, Migu Video
- Production Companies: iQIYI 北京爱奇艺科技, Migu Culture Technology
- Production Countries: China
- Alternative Titles: 暗潮 (CN), Beneath The Undertow (US)
Beneath the Undertow - Plot
At the former Xuri Factory, a dismembered female body is discovered in an abandoned sewage pit. Veteran detective Lian Haiping and rookie officer Shi Qiangfeng, despite their differences, must work together to solve the case. Their investigation reveals unexpected social issues and brings to light an old case that complicates their personal and professional lives.
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Beneath the Undertow - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Chen Zhuo
Main Cast
- Chen Jianbin
- Chen Ruoxuan
- Sierra Li
- Cheng Taishen
- Mei Ting
Writers
- Lou Xiaopeng
Beneath the Undertow - FAQs
What is Beneath the Undertow about?
Beneath the Undertow centers on a grisly discovery at a derelict factory in China — a dismembered woman found in an abandoned sewage pit. Veteran detective Lian Haiping and eager rookie Shi Qiangfeng must set aside their clashing personalities to crack the case, which spirals into deeper social issues and a haunting cold case.
Who plays the lead detectives in Beneath the Undertow?
Chen Jianbin portrays the seasoned, world-weary detective Lian Haiping, while Chen Ruoxuan plays the idealistic rookie Shi Qiangfeng. Their contrasting approaches to police work drive much of the series' tension and character development across the 19-episode run.
Is Beneath the Undertow based on a true story?
Beneath the Undertow is a work of fiction, though it draws on the gritty realism of Chinese crime procedurals. The story was crafted by writer Lou Xiaopeng and director Chen Zhuo, weaving a fictional murder investigation with commentary on social inequality and institutional memory within law enforcement.
Where can you stream Beneath the Undertow?
Beneath the Undertow is available on iQiyi and Migu Video, the two Chinese streaming platforms that co-aired the series. Availability outside mainland China may vary by region, so checking your local streaming services or the JustWatch platform is the best way to find current options.
How many episodes does Beneath the Undertow have?
The series comprises 19 episodes across a single season, which concluded in 2025. The compact, focused run allows the narrative to maintain a tight pace without overstaying its welcome — a format well-suited to the procedural crime genre it inhabits.
Who created and wrote Beneath the Undertow?
The series was created by Chen Zhuo, who also directed the production. The screenplay was penned by Lou Xiaopeng. The show was co-produced by iQIYI Beijing and Migu Culture Technology, reflecting a collaboration between two of China's prominent streaming and digital entertainment companies.
What makes Beneath the Undertow stand out among Chinese crime dramas?
Beyond the central murder mystery, Beneath the Undertow distinguishes itself by weaving in broader social commentary — examining how industrial decline, institutional memory, and personal history intersect with crime. The odd-couple dynamic between Lian Haiping and Shi Qiangfeng adds emotional texture to what could otherwise be a straightforward procedural.
What are some shows similar to Beneath the Undertow?
Fans of Beneath the Undertow may enjoy The Killing, a slow-burn Scandinavian crime drama with a similarly atmospheric tone, or Body of Proof for its forensic investigation angle. Deadloch and Hightown also offer compelling detective partnerships, while Prodigal Son blends psychological depth with procedural storytelling.
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