Đường Thi Tam Bách Án The Untold Stories Of Tang Dynasty (2014)

As an experienced film critic, I find 'The Untold Stories Of Tang Dynasty', directed by Li Bin (李斌), to be a noteworthy, albeit not blockbuster, endeavor within the historical detective genre. Rather than focusing on grand action sequences, this production excels in its intricate case building and psychological depth, utilizing the Tang Dynasty setting intelligently – not merely as a backdrop, but as a crucible for plot twists rooted in period customs and laws. Li Bin's cinematic techniques craft an atmospheric, often somber, mood that perfectly complements the murder mysteries and political intrigues. The direction effectively balances historical authenticity with gripping suspense.

The performances of the main trio, especially Li Jinming (李金铭), Zheng Long (郑龙), and Zhang Xiwen (张曦文), while not A-list, are commendably solid. They convincingly portray characters grappling with complex enigmas, lending credibility to the investigations. Li Jinming's portrayal of an intelligent and resolute female character, in particular, stands out as a strong point, transcending typical period drama archetypes. The series explores themes of justice, truth, and greed, immersing viewers in a deductive journey set against a historical landscape rife with conspiracies. It carves its niche as a thoughtful Chinese historical crime drama.