The new Chinese suspense drama *The Trembling of Cicada* explores the complexities of law, justice, and human nature through the lens of three legal professionals involved in a decade-long case. The series features Hong Kong actor Francis Ng, Chinese mainland actor Zheng Yunlong, and actress Zhong Chuxi, each portraying a distinct role within the legal system.
The drama opens with criminal defense lawyer Ding Ning, played by Zhong Chuxi, meticulously examining evidence in a rape case involving a young nursing home caregiver. Rather than accepting a guilty plea at face value, Ding strives to protect her client’s legal rights, reflecting the broader theme of ensuring fairness in the justice process. Zhong noted that defending accused individuals often invites public scrutiny, but emphasized that suspects are not necessarily guilty, and that defense lawyers work to uphold justice and equality. She described the profession as requiring courage and highlighted the multidimensional nature of legal cases.
Francis Ng takes on the role of judge Yu Songfan, marking his first portrayal of a judge on the mainland despite a career spanning over 30 years. Ng said the role gave him insight into the demanding nature of judicial work, which requires careful case research and balanced decision-making grounded in evidence and legal procedure. He described the role as emotionally charged and significant, requiring him to remain focused throughout filming.
In contrast, Zheng Yunlong’s character Zhao Yijie is a prominent lawyer operating in morally ambiguous territory. Zhao is depicted as skillful in reading and manipulating others, often using psychological tactics to exploit vulnerabilities and push individuals to the edge of rationality. Zheng described the role as unconventional and complex, requiring him to explore the interplay between the legal profession and human nature. Drawing on his background in musical theatre, Zheng adapted his acting style to suit the subtle demands of television.
The production team indicated that *The Trembling of Cicada* aims to reach a global audience, with initial distribution focused on Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei. Both Zheng and Zhong expressed hopes that the series would foster cross-cultural understanding through emotional resonance and offer international viewers a fresh perspective on Chinese suspense storytelling. Zhong described actors as transmitters of emotions, ideas, and values, emphasizing the diversity of Chinese culture and the ongoing exploration of new ways to present it.
The 21-episode series is currently available for streaming on iQiyi.