The Knockout (2023)
A sweeping Chinese crime drama tracing two men's intertwined fates across 20 years of justice, corruption, and consequence.
The Knockout - Series Information
- Original Title: 狂飙
- First Air Year: 2023
- Last Air Year: 2023
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama, Action, Adventure, Crime
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (46 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 39
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Chinese
- Spoken Languages: Mandarin
- First Air Date: January 14, 2023 (South Korea - 15)
- Networks: CCTV-8, iQiyi
- Alternative Titles: PUNCH OUT (US), Нокаут (RU), The Knockout (CN)
- Production Companies: Liu Bai Entertainment, Beijing iQIYI Science & Technology 北京爱奇艺科技 (iQIYI)
- Production Countries: China
The Knockout - Plot
20 years of perseverance, hot-blooded teenagers finally become the people's hero.
Where to Watch The Knockout
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The Knockout - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Zhang Yi
- Zhang Songwen
- Li Yitong
- Zhang Zhijian
- Ni Dahong
- Han Tongsheng
- Li Jianyi
- Shi Zhaoqi
- Wu Gang
- Li Jian
Writers
- Wenjun Bai
- Yingfei Wang
- Junyi Zhu
The Knockout - FAQs
What is The Knockout about?
The Knockout is a Chinese crime drama spanning 20 years, following police officer An Xin and small-time criminal Gao Qiqiang as their destinies collide. The series explores government corruption, gang power, and the moral cost of justice in a gripping narrative that became a cultural phenomenon in China.
Why did The Knockout become so popular in China?
The Knockout broke viewership records on iQIYI and CCTV-8 upon its 2023 debut, drawing massive audiences for its unflinching portrayal of organized crime and government corruption. Zhang Songwen's nuanced performance as villain Gao Qiqiang became a cultural talking point, earning widespread critical and public acclaim across China.
Is The Knockout based on a true story?
The Knockout is not directly based on a single true story, but it draws inspiration from real anti-corruption and anti-gang campaigns in China, particularly the 'Sweeping Black' crackdown initiated by the Chinese government. Its realistic tone and social commentary gave it a strong sense of authenticity that resonated deeply with audiences.
Where can you stream The Knockout?
The Knockout is available to buy on Amazon Video in the United States. The series originally aired on CCTV-8 and iQIYI in China. International viewers can check JustWatch for the most up-to-date streaming and purchasing options available in their region.
Who are the main actors in The Knockout?
The Knockout stars Zhang Yi as police officer An Xin and Zhang Songwen as crime boss Gao Qiqiang in the lead roles. The ensemble cast also includes Li Yitong, Zhang Zhijian, Ni Dahong, Han Tongsheng, Li Jianyi, Shi Zhaoqi, Wu Gang, and Li Jian in key supporting roles.
How many episodes does The Knockout have?
The Knockout consists of 39 episodes across a single season. Each episode runs approximately 46 minutes, making the complete series a substantial and immersive viewing experience. The show aired its full run in 2023 and has since concluded with no additional seasons announced.
What language is The Knockout in?
The Knockout is a Chinese-language series spoken entirely in Mandarin. It was produced in China and originally broadcast on CCTV-8 and iQIYI. International viewers typically watch it with subtitles. The original Chinese title is 狂飙, which can be translated as 'Raging Storm' or 'Whirlwind.'
How was The Knockout received by critics?
The Knockout received exceptional critical and audience acclaim, earning praise for its complex characters, taut storytelling, and bold examination of corruption. Zhang Songwen's performance as Gao Qiqiang was singled out as a career-defining turn. The series is widely regarded as one of the finest Chinese crime dramas in recent memory.
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