HBO Asia’s new original series, “Trinity of Shadows” (第三佈局: 塵沙惑) follows a murder investigation that leads righteous detective Tze-Wei, an up-and-coming public official Chi-Hsiao, and rookie policeman Chia-Hao into a dark labyrinth of power play. As the trio close in on the truth, they are inextricably intertwined and forced to confront their demons linked to a cold case from three years ago.
The story is very real as it reflects local politics in Taiwan. In order for everyone else in Southeast Asia to relate to the show, the cast and writers made sure to explore different themes that people face in real life. One of that is trauma. During our interview with Sandrine Pinna and Kaiser Chuang, the actors expressed their hope that by watching “Trinity of Shadows”, viewers can learn to let go and feel less alone.
Each character in the series have to make their own choices and it snowballs the events that follow. Whether it’s good versus evil, or victim versus perpetrator, nothing is ever black and white. Let’s get to know these main characters better:
Hsu Tze-Wei 徐梓薇 (played by Sandrine Pinna 張榕容)
“Tze-Wei is a righteous detective who doesn’t compromise her morals. Despite being pressured to stop the investigation on the assault case involving the son of a prosecutor, she continues to pursue the matter, even if it means getting suspended. As she uncovers a series of conspiracies that are linked to a cold case from three years ago, she is forced to face her own demons.”
Sandrine says that her character has some childhood trauma. Because her father was abusive, she grew up with a lot of anger and developed a tough exterior. In order to understand Tze-Wei’s insecurities better, Sandrine had extensive discussions with the director about where she’s coming from that had resulted in her emotional baggage.
Yang Chi-Hsiao 楊啟逍 (played by Kaiser Chuang 莊凱勛)
“Succeeding his father as the city councillor, Chi-Hsiao is a well-liked and respected political figure known for his professionalism. As he prepares for his re-election campaign, Chi-Hsiao is met with waves of setback threatening his career – and his life.”
During his research, Kaiser recalls watching plenty of up-and-coming politicians on YouTube for inspiration and took references from different political parties. Since Chi-Hsiao is often in the public eye and gets to influence policies, Kaiser feels that absolute power can lead to corruption.
In terms of similarities, Kaiser sees about 80% of himself in Chi-Hsiao. As a second generation politician, his passion for justice and politics were relatable. On the flip side though, he’s a bit silly and naive when it comes to relationship with women.
Chen Chia-Hao 陳家豪 (played by Liu Kuan-Ting 劉冠廷)
“A perceptive rookie police officer from Tze-Wei’s precinct. His quick wit and street-smart make up for his lack of experience in the force. Driven by personal reasons, he joins Tze-Wei in a murder investigation.”
Hu Ta-Dong 胡大東 (played by Frederick Lee 李銘忠)
“Ta-Dong is a notorious, wanted fugitive with an extensive criminal history. After laying low for three years following his narrow escape from the police, he resurfaces for an unknown reason that will bring about grim consequences.”
Lin Ming-Chieh 林明杰 (played by OuYang Lun 歐陽倫)
“Ming-Chieh is a privileged and arrogant brat from a wealthy family who splurges on whatever he wants. Overindulged by his protective chief prosecutor mother, he is often sheltered from the consequences of his reckless and lawless actions.”
Chang Ching-Yao 張敬堯 (played by Stanley Yau 邱士縉)
“A Hong Kong native who is in Taiwan to attend graduate school. Following his chance meeting with Tze-Wei during an investigation involving his neighbour, the two become good friends. Outside of his interactions with Tze-Wei, Ching-Yao is a mysterious man who seems to be hiding something.”
Watch the trailer here:
Catch two back-to-back episodes of “Trinity of Shadows” every Sunday at 9pm from 13th June on HBO GO and HBO (Astro Ch 411 HD).
