Netflix series “Aema” has revealed three key points of interest ahead of its release today!
Set in 1980s Chungmuro, “Aema” is a fictional comedy that delves into the fierce realities behind the glitz and glamour of the film industry. It follows the struggles and triumphs of two actresses, Hee Ran (Lee Ha Nee) and Ju Ae (Bang Hyo Rin), during the creation of “Madame Aema,” the adult film that took South Korea by storm in the early 1980s.
Here are the three highlights to look forward to:
1. A fresh reinterpretation of the past
Director Lee Hae Young revisits the making of the era-defining hit “Madame Aema,” portraying not only the cutthroat competition and ambition of 1980s Chungmuro but also the brutality and contradictions that defined it.
In an age when erotic films dominated the box office yet censorship laws stifled even basic freedom of expression, the series re-examines the irony of the period through a modern lens.
Director Lee Hae Young explained, “I wanted the series to be immersive and relatable, with a fresh take on both the storytelling and mise-en-scène, while delivering a message that resonates closely with today’s viewers.”
2. Women’s solidarity against an unjust reality
Rather than limiting “Aema” to the protagonist of “Madame Aema,” the director reimagines it as a symbol of all women who endured prejudice and misunderstanding while fighting to claim their own lives.
The drama tells the story of two women resisting oppression, authority, and systemic barriers in their own ways. The director noted, “The moment they joined hands symbolized their shared fate of living as ‘Aema.’ Their story ultimately reflects our own—of confronting prejudice, resisting injustice, and protecting ourselves in the face of it.”
Hee Ran initially disapproves of the ambitious newcomer threatening her position, while Ju Ae admires but refuses to be intimidated by the veteran star. What begins as sharp rivalry slowly transforms into solidarity as they confront the absurdities and oppressions of their time.
Through their journey, “Aema” pushes beyond the rigid stereotypes of 1980s female characters, portraying women who boldly resist a society determined to strip them bare—sometimes fiercely, sometimes refreshingly.
3. A flawless ensemble cast that embodies the era
Lee Ha Nee, Bang Hyo Rin, Jin Sun Kyu, and Cho Hyun Chul unite to deliver powerful performances that capture the fierce struggles of Chungmuro in the 1980s.
Lee Ha Nee plays Jeong Hee Ran, the era’s top star. Bang Hyo Rin takes on the role of Shin Ju Ae, a rookie unexpectedly cast as the lead of “Madame Aema.”
Jin Sun Kyu transforms into Goo Joong Ho, the head of the production company behind “Madame Aema.” Cho Hyun Chul plays rookie director Kwak In Woo, who is making his directorial debut with “Madame Aema.”
With each character embodying clashing ambitions and desires surrounding the film’s production, their synergy and dynamic performances promise to captivate viewers.
“Aema” premieres on August 22 at 4 p.m. KST.
Watch Lee Ha Nee in “Knight Flower” below:
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And Jin Sun Kyu in his hit drama “Through the Darkness” on Viki:
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