CAST: Rayzha Alimjan, Wang Yang, Chuai Ni, Shen Yu Jie
DIRECTOR: Zhao Jin Tao
“Fearless” plunges into the tumultuous life of Luo Ying Wei, a character whose resilience and determination are as formidable as the challenges she faces. Initially presented as an office worker who self-studied her way through the judicial examination, Luo Ying Wei’s life spirals into chaos when her husband, Liu Ming, abandons her for another woman, leaving behind a trail of debt and betrayal.
The series opens on a note of suspense and emotional turmoil. Luo Ying Wei’s frantic search for her missing husband on his 30th birthday sets the stage for a drama filled with heartbreak and deceit. The revelation of her husband’s affair and his subsequent flight from the country with their savings is a powerful blow, one that propels the narrative into a realm of legal battles and personal vendettas.
What stands out in “Fearless” is the protagonist’s unwavering spirit. Luo Ying Wei’s refusal to sign a divorce paper, as proposed by her manipulative mother-in-law, is a testament to her strength and integrity. Her determination to confront her husband and seek justice through legal means adds layers to her character, making her more than just a victim of circumstances.
The introduction of Lanlan, a former employee of Luo Ying Wei’s mother-in-law, brings an interesting dynamic to the story. Lanlan’s discovery of crucial property documents and her subsequent employment as Luo Ying Wei’s housekeeper adds depth to the plot. Their interactions, particularly around the topic of law and career aspirations, offer a nuanced look at ambition, practicality, and mentorship.
Luo Ying Wei’s tactful yet honest advice to Lanlan about pursuing a career in law, considering her background in hairdressing, is a poignant moment that highlights the show’s underlying themes of realism and aspiration. Lanlan’s fascination with the law, despite her non-legal background, adds a layer of hope and ambition to the narrative.
Her friendship and professional dynamics with a colleague with a rural background Qiu Hua, is an added layer to the narrative. As they start working together, their priorities, aspirations, and perspective is chalk and cheese- however, they serve the common objective of bringing justice to their clients extremely well.
Chen Shuo, the opposing counsel in several of their cases is a seasoned lawyer and brings the jaded lawyer perspective to the game which is an irritant to Ying Wei. However, she quickly realizes his laser-sharp capabilities enough to even entrust her own personal cases to him.
While Chen Shou falls in love with her, she continues in her own world impervious to his feelings. He waits patiently for the penny to drop.
The drama’s strength lies in its exploration of Luo Ying Wei’s journey from a betrayed spouse to a determined fighter using legal means to reclaim her life. Her transformation is both inspiring and relatable, making “Fearless” a compelling watch for those interested in stories of personal resilience and justice.
However, the show sometimes treads a fine line between drama and melodrama. While the emotional beats are often effective, there are moments where the narrative could benefit from a subtler touch. Nonetheless, “Fearless” is a gripping drama that captures the complexities of betrayal, the intricacies of legal battles, and the unyielding spirit of a woman who refuses to be broken by adversity.
Streams on iqiyi and Viki