TVB’s latest legal drama, Themis (正義迴廊), has officially premiered, immediately seizing the attention of viewers and sparking widespread discussion online. Leading the charge is veteran actress Charmaine Sheh (佘詩曼), whose portrayal of a resolute, principled, yet compassionate character has drawn significant praise. This latest role marks a notable departure from her previous acclaimed performance in Queen of News (新聞女王), showcasing Sheh’s remarkable versatility and depth as an actress.
The drama’s narrative, which delves into the complex and often heartbreaking issues surrounding juvenile delinquency, has resonated deeply with the online community. Viewers have lauded the script for its timely and authentic exploration of these sensitive topics, with many remarking that the opening episodes are particularly emotionally charged. The consensus among netizens is that TVB has delivered a script that is remarkably progressive and insightful, tackling societal challenges with a maturity and foresight that sets it apart.
Annie Man’s Triumphant Return and Heartfelt Collaboration
While Charmaine Sheh rightfully commands the spotlight, the supporting cast of Themis has also been instrumental in the drama’s early success. Among them, Annie Man (文頌嫻), who makes a significant return to TVB after a two-decade hiatus, has particularly impressed audiences. Her presence in the initial episodes, sharing pivotal scenes with Sheh, has been met with considerable excitement. Man delivers a raw and poignant performance as a mother grappling with the profound grief of losing a child, a role that has been widely described as both powerful and deeply affecting.
Recognizing the positive reception and the buzz surrounding her return, Annie Man took to social media to express her gratitude, specifically highlighting the supportive presence of Charmaine Sheh during the filming of her demanding scenes. Man recounted a particularly nerve-wracking courtroom sequence, where she confessed to Sheh, "My legs are going to give out, what should I do?" Sheh’s immediate and reassuring response, delivered with characteristic warmth and humor, served to significantly alleviate Man’s anxiety. "My legs are probably weaker than yours! Look! The judge has to sit in the front, on a high place," Sheh quipped, prompting a shared laugh that diffused the palpable tension of the moment. This anecdote not only underscores Sheh’s graciousness as a co-star but also provides a glimpse into the supportive atmosphere on set, fostering an environment where actors could deliver their best performances.
Benz Hui’s Enduring Legacy and Emotional Farewell
The late veteran actor Benz Hui (許誠傑) also left an indelible mark on Themis, delivering a posthumous performance that moved both his castmates and the viewing public to tears. His portrayal of a judge, a character who shares a complex superior-subordinate dynamic with Charmaine Sheh’s protagonist, showcased his enduring talent and his ability to imbue even smaller roles with profound emotional weight. Despite their differing approaches and styles, their characters develop a mutual respect and support, adding another layer of emotional depth to the series.
Hui’s character, characterized by a gentle demeanor and his signature warm smile, brought a sense of peace and kindness to the screen, serving as a poignant reminder of the actor’s beloved presence. For many, seeing Hui on screen again was a bittersweet experience, evoking cherished memories and a deep sense of loss.
Charmaine Sheh, who considered Benz Hui a father figure, paid a heartfelt tribute to him on her social media. She shared her emotional reaction upon viewing the early episodes of Themis: "The crew showed me the first few episodes of Themis, but when I watched… I had a very strange feeling. It felt so close, like (Benz) was still here. For me, it was the first time I watched it, and seeing my father (Benz) made me very emotional. It reminded me of many happy things we did while filming, and he was joking around."
Sheh further revealed that her time working with Hui on Themis offered her a new perspective on his dedication and professionalism. "Benz had a lot of lines because he was also a judge," she explained. "I saw him very focused and working hard at memorizing his lines. This was something I have never seen before. I saw a very different side of him." This observation speaks volumes about Hui’s commitment to his craft, even in his later years, and highlights the profound impact he had on those he worked with.
Executive producer Shu-Kai Chung (鍾樹楷) also shared his profound emotional response to Benz Hui’s performance, admitting to crying "every time" he watched it. Chung expressed his deep gratitude for having the opportunity to cast Hui in the role, acknowledging their long-standing professional relationship. "Teacher Benz was a senior who watched me grow up," Chung stated. "We worked together countless times over the decades. I feel very grateful that I was able to find him to play the role. Actually, I have very complicated feelings. In the second episode, there is that scene where he had to answer to ‘I love you’ 10 times. When we first wrote that scene, we thought of having Teacher Benz play the role. At that time, it hadn’t been confirmed that he would play the role yet, so I cry every time I watch it." This poignant anecdote underscores the deep personal connection Chung felt with Hui and the emotional significance of his final performances.
The early success of Themis is a testament to the power of compelling storytelling, strong character development, and the enduring talent of its cast. As the drama unfolds, it promises to continue engaging audiences with its timely themes and emotionally resonant performances, solidifying its place as a must-watch series. The show’s exploration of juvenile justice and its portrayal of the human struggles within the legal system offer a thought-provoking and ultimately hopeful narrative, further enhanced by the exceptional contributions of its seasoned actors. The collaboration between Charmaine Sheh and Annie Man, alongside the poignant farewell to Benz Hui, creates a rich tapestry of performances that are driving the drama’s initial triumph.
