Netflix released another trailer for its upcoming series, 'Aema,' raising anticipation further.
On August 8, Netflix announced the show’s upcoming release, stating, “In an era where they only tried to strip you down, we’re turning the tables! Aema premieres August 22, only on Netflix.” Along with the announcement, they unveiled the main poster and official trailer, instantly heightening anticipation.
'Aema' is a fictional black comedy inspired by the making of the 1980s Korean erotic film 'Madame Aema,' which shook up the Korean film industry at the time. It reimagines the glamorous façade of Chungmuro during that era, revealing the power structures behind it, the injustices and discrimination faced by actresses, and the stories of those who stood up against them. The poster features characters with different goals and desires set against the backdrop of 1980s Chungmuro, the heart of Korean filmmaking, while the tagline, “In an era where they only tried to strip you down, we’re turning the tables,” captures the protagonists’ defiance against the norms and oppression of the time.
At the center of the story are Jeong Hee Ran (played by Lee Hanee), the top star of her day, and rookie actress Shin Joo Ae (Bang Hyo Rin). They are joined by Gu Jung Ho (Jin Sun Kyu), the head of Madame Aema’s production company Shin Sung Films; rookie director Kwak In Woo (Jo Hyun Chul); and a colorful supporting cast played by Woo Ji Hyun, Lee Joo Young, Kim Jong Soo, Lee Sung Wook, and Ahn Gil Kang, each adding depth to the narrative.
The official trailer unfolds with Hee Ran refusing a role after reading the 'Madame Aema' script filled with explicit scenes. Angered, Jung Ho uses her exclusive contract to demote her to a supporting role. The production company then holds massive auditions for the lead role, during which Joo Ae, a nightclub tap dancer chasing her dream of becoming an actress, catches director In Woo’s eye and is cast as Aema. Initially rivals, the two women eventually come to respect each other as they confront on-set challenges and the oppressive climate of the era.
As filming begins, the production faces hurdles. After receiving government-mandated script revisions, Jung Ho and In Woo devise ways to sidestep censorship. The title “A woman who loves horses” is absurdly changed to “A woman who loves hemp” (a pun in Korean), and although Joo Ae follows the director’s instructions, the increasingly senseless sexualized scenes lead Hee Ran to speak out. These moments satirize the commercial greed and censorship contradictions of the era, wrapped in black comedy. Eventually, Madame Aema is released as the first late-night movie in a new era after the 36-year-long curfew is lifted, and the trailer ends with Hee Ran telling Jung Ho, “Jung Ho, let’s go to hell,” leaving viewers curious about what lies ahead.
While built on provocative subject matter, Aema focuses on themes of female solidarity and growth. The plot centers on a top star fighting against power and sexism to protect her position and pride, and a rookie willing to risk it all to be recognized as a true lead actress. Their relationship evolves from rivalry to alliance.
Directed by Lee Hae Young, known for 'Believer,' 'Phantom,' and 'Like a Virgin,' the series meticulously recreates 1980s Chungmuro sets, costumes, props, and filming techniques, delivering both retro charm and authenticity.
The performances are another highlight. Lee Hanee and newcomer Bang Hyo Rin bring convincing energy and personality to their characters, anchoring the story, while Jin Sun Kyu, Jo Hyun Chul, Woo Ji Hyun, Lee Joo Young, Kim Jong Soo, Lee Sung Wook, and Ahn Gil Kang portray a variety of production crew members with distinctive flair, adding vibrancy to the narrative.
Slated for simultaneous release in over 190 countries, the series blends satire and feminist themes despite its R-rated erotic film backdrop, giving it strong appeal both domestically and internationally. With recent Korean Netflix hits like 'The Glory' and 'Hellbound' proving that bold concepts resonate globally, 'Aema', with its retro sensibility, black comedy, and social commentary, stands a strong chance of attracting overseas viewers.
By dissecting the coexistence of glamour and darkness in the film industry of that era, 'Aema' delivers both humor and sharp satire, sparking curiosity over the impact it will have in the OTT market.
SEE ALSO: Why Lee Hanee is one of the Most Versatile Actresses in Korean TV
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