Talking Bones (2018)
A Chinese crime mystery series following five misfit investigators who solve bizarre murder cases through forensic science, sharp detective work, and unlikely teamwork.
Talking Bones - Series Information
- Original Title: 骨语
- First Air Year: 2018
- Last Air Year: 2022
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Crime, Mystery
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (30 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 2
- Number of Episodes: 66
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Chinese
- Spoken Languages: Mandarin
- Networks: Tencent Video
- Alternative Titles: Talking Bones (US), 骨语 (CN)
- Production Countries: China
Talking Bones - Plot
The story revolves around Shang Jie, the overly critical head of a crime investigation team; Xia Ying, a forensic examiner who is completely engrossed with her profession; Li Xue Kai, a detective and a good tracker; Song Mi, an innocent and ditsy analyst and Ying Ming, a second-generation rich who works as a criminal psychologist. The five form an unlikely team as they are the rejects of the department, yet through teamwork and dedication, they succeed in solving the most unusual murder cases.
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Talking Bones - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Zhang Lingxin
- Gao Yiren
- Cai Yida
- Zhang Jiading
- Wu Mansi
- Li Hanlin
- Jiang Anjing
Talking Bones - FAQs
Is Talking Bones based on a true story?
Talking Bones draws on real forensic science and criminal investigation methods, and the keyword data tags it as 'based on true story.' While the specific cases are dramatized for television, the procedural elements — forensic examination, criminal psychology, and detective work — are grounded in authentic investigative practices.
Who plays the forensic examiner in Talking Bones?
Zhang Lingxin plays Xia Ying, the forensic examiner who is completely absorbed in her profession. Her character forms the scientific backbone of the team, bringing meticulous attention to physical evidence while her colleagues contribute detective instincts and psychological insight to each case.
Where can you stream Talking Bones?
Talking Bones is available to stream on Rakuten Viki, both with a subscription and with ads. For a full overview of viewing options available in your region, check JustWatch, which aggregates current streaming availability across platforms.
What makes the team in Talking Bones unusual?
The five-person team is made up of departmental rejects — a demanding team leader, a forensics-obsessed examiner, a sharp detective, a ditsy analyst, and a wealthy criminal psychologist. Their mismatched personalities create friction and comedy, but their complementary skills ultimately make them surprisingly effective at cracking complex murder cases.
How many seasons and episodes does Talking Bones have?
Talking Bones ran for two seasons with a total of 66 episodes — Season 1 contains 36 episodes and Season 2 contains 30. The series aired on Tencent Video and concluded in 2022, offering a substantial run of bite-sized 30-minute episodes ideal for binge-watching.
What genre is Talking Bones?
Talking Bones sits firmly in the crime and mystery genre, blending forensic procedural storytelling with ensemble character dynamics. It shares DNA with international hits like CSI and Rizzoli & Isles, but brings a distinctly Chinese production sensibility and a lighter, character-driven tone to its case-of-the-week format.
Is Talking Bones worth watching for crime drama fans?
For fans of forensic procedurals and ensemble crime dramas, Talking Bones offers an entertaining mix of mystery-solving and character comedy. Its short episode runtime makes it easy to consume, and the quirky team dynamic keeps the tone lively. Viewers who enjoy shows like The Mentalist or Harrow should find it engaging.
What are some shows similar to Talking Bones?
If you enjoy Talking Bones, consider checking out CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Rizzoli & Isles, The Mentalist, or Luther for comparable forensic and detective drama. For more recent picks, Harrow and Danger Zone offer similar procedural energy. Waking the Dead is another strong recommendation for fans of cold-case forensic mysteries.
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