The highly anticipated legal drama Themis (正義女神), starring the ever-radiant Charmaine Sheh (佘詩曼), premiered this week, immediately igniting fervent discussions among netizens. Early reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with viewers particularly lauding Sheh’s masterful portrayal of a character who is at once decisive and compassionate, strong yet inherently kind. This performance marks a significant departure from her previous iconic role in Queen of News (新聞女王), showcasing Sheh’s remarkable versatility and depth as an actress.
Beyond Sheh’s compelling lead performance, Themis has resonated with audiences for its timely and relatable storyline, which bravely tackles the complex issue of juvenile delinquency. The initial episodes have been described as deeply emotional, with many viewers commending TVB for its courage in presenting a script that feels remarkably ahead of its time, addressing societal challenges with sensitivity and intelligence.
Annie Man’s Triumphant Return and Sisterly Bond with Charmaine Sheh
Adding a significant layer of emotional depth to the early episodes is the welcome return of Annie Man (文頌嫻) to TVB after a two-decade hiatus. Man, who shares pivotal scenes with Sheh in the opening installments, delivers a powerhouse performance as a grieving mother. Her portrayal of profound loss and maternal anguish has been widely praised as heart-wrenching and incredibly moving, drawing tears from audiences.
Deeply touched by the widespread acclaim, Annie Man took to social media to express her gratitude, particularly highlighting the unwavering support she received from Charmaine Sheh during filming. "When I was getting into character, Charmaine was always there for me silently," Man shared, recalling a particularly daunting courtroom scene. "I still remember the moment I stepped into the courtroom scene that day, I was really scared. It was such a realistic scene, with people sitting all around, and I had to sit in the middle of the crowd [as a witness]. Before filming started, I said to Charmaine, ‘My legs are going to give out, what should I do?’"
Sheh’s immediate and reassuring response, Man recounted, was instrumental in easing her nerves. "Charmaine immediately replied, ‘My legs are probably weaker than yours! Look! The judge has to sit in the front, on a high place.’ Then we both burst out laughing and it immediately eased the tension." This candid anecdote not only underscores the genuine camaraderie between the two actresses but also sheds light on Sheh’s supportive nature, further cementing her reputation as a beloved and respected figure in the industry. Their shared scenes in Themis are a testament to their enduring friendship and their collective commitment to delivering impactful performances.
The Poignant Legacy of Benz Hui: A Posthumous Performance That Moves All to Tears
The emotional resonance of Themis is further amplified by the posthumous appearance of the late, great Benz Hui (許紹雄). Hui, a veteran actor beloved by audiences for decades, portrays a judge in the drama, a role that has left both the cast and viewers in tears. His character shares a complex superior-subordinate dynamic with Sheh’s character, yet they exhibit a deep mutual respect and support, navigating their professional lives with distinct yet complementary approaches.
As one of Benz Hui’s final on-screen contributions, his presence in Themis is particularly poignant. His character embodies a gentle and peaceful demeanor, a stark contrast to the often tumultuous legal world depicted. His signature warm smile, a hallmark of his endearing persona, has brought many viewers to tears, serving as a bittersweet reminder of his immense talent and the void his absence has left in the entertainment landscape.
Charmaine Sheh, who considered Benz Hui a father figure, paid a deeply emotional tribute to him on social media, expressing the profound impact his presence had on her while watching 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," she shared. "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 a new dimension she discovered in Benz Hui’s work ethic during their time on set. "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 insight into Hui’s dedication and meticulous approach to his craft adds another layer of appreciation for his final performance.
The executive producer of Themis, Shu-Kai Chung (鍾樹楷), confessed to being moved to tears every time he witnessed Benz Hui’s performance. "Teacher Benz was a senior who watched me grow up," Chung stated with palpable emotion. "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 confession highlights the profound personal connection Chung had with Hui and the bittersweet joy of seeing his talent shine through in this final project.
The narrative of Themis delves into the intricate workings of the legal system, exploring not only the pursuit of justice but also the human stories that unfold within its hallowed halls. The series promises to be a compelling exploration of moral complexities, the challenges faced by young individuals, and the unwavering dedication of legal professionals. Charmaine Sheh’s return to the forefront of television in such a substantial role, coupled with the poignant contributions of Annie Man and the unforgettable presence of Benz Hui, ensures that Themis is poised to be a landmark drama of the year, leaving an indelible mark on viewers’ hearts and minds. The series, by addressing sensitive societal issues with a strong script and stellar performances, is setting a new benchmark for television storytelling, proving that compelling narratives can indeed be both timely and timeless.
