Watch Vanishing Son

Vanishing Son is an action-adventure drama series that originally aired on syndication in 1995. It stars Russell Wong as Jian-Wa, a Chinese student who escapes to America following the Tiananmen Square protests. He is forced to leave his brother Wago (Chi Muoi Lo) behind in China.

The show follows Jian-Wa as he tries to assimilate into American culture while also avoiding capture by the Chinese government, who are pursuing him for his involvement in the protests. Along the way, he encounters a variety of characters, some of whom help him and others who hinder him.

The series is comprised of a total of 13 episodes, each running for approximately 44 minutes. The first episode, titled "The Vanishing Son," sets the stage for the story as we see Jian-Wa fleeing China and arriving in America.

Throughout the series, Jian-Wa is shown as an intelligent and resourceful man, able to think on his feet and improvise when necessary. His experiences in China have left him with a deep sense of guilt and a desire to make up for the mistakes he feels he made in the past. This often puts him at odds with the people he encounters, who are more concerned with their own needs and desires.

One of the main themes of the show is the struggle to find one's place in the world. Jian-Wa feels caught between two cultures, neither of which fully accept him. He is Chinese, but his experiences in America have given him a new perspective that he can never fully shake. This struggle is exemplified in his relationship with Casey (Megan Gallagher), a small-town sheriff who befriends him and tries to help him along the way.

Another major theme is the struggle for freedom. Jian-Wa is pursued relentlessly by the Chinese government, who see him as a dangerous symbol of the protests. He is constantly on the run, never able to fully relax or settle down. This is contrasted with the freedom enjoyed by the people around him, who take their liberty for granted and don't understand the sacrifices Jian-Wa has had to make.

The show is notable for its fast-paced action sequences and Wong's skillful martial arts abilities. However, the action is always in service of the story and never feels gratuitous. The fight scenes are well-choreographed and exciting, but the characters are always at the forefront.

Overall, Vanishing Son is a compelling and emotionally resonant series that explores themes of identity, freedom, and redemption. Wong's performance as Jian-Wa is nuanced and powerful, and the supporting cast is excellent as well. While it may not have enjoyed the same level of success as other action-adventure shows of its time, such as Walker, Texas Ranger or Xena: Warrior Princess, it stands out as a unique and worthwhile addition to the genre.