The actor who carried the aftertaste of Aema was unquestionably Lee So-i.
Aema, a Netflix series released on the 22nd of last month, has continued its upward momentum with steady buzz, and Lee So-i's presence, who delivered an impact as Hwang Mina in the drama, continues to be talked about.
Aema is a work that depicts the story of top star Hee-ran (played by Lee Ha-nui) and rookie actress Juae (played by Bang Hyo-rin), who bravely confront the dark realities hidden behind the dazzling spotlight during the birth of erotic films that struck Korea in the 1980s. Actor Lee So-i played Hwang Mina, a lover who uses Shinseong Film Company CEO Koo Joong-ho (played by Jin Sun-gyu) to achieve her dream of becoming an actress.
The Mina that Lee So-i portrayed was intense from her first appearance. Her glamorous visuals and energy that left Koo Joong-ho unable to move captured attention, and her free-spiritedness in expressing emotions as they were and her bubbly charm provided both tension and entertainment. Above all, it gradually became clear that all of Mina's actions actually began from a desperate yearning to be an actor, and as Mina's narrative was finally completed, the character's depth noticeably changed. Critics say that because the character Mina existed, anger toward the society of that time could grow stronger and Hee-ran's courage could shine. In this way, Mina was the most realistic figure in Aema's era and a character who penetrated Aema's theme.
Lee So-i rendered this Mina more three-dimensionally, evoking admiration in every scene she appeared in. Especially because Mina accurately recognizes the reality she faces more than anyone, Lee So-i added strength to Aema's intended message by self-mockingly portraying Mina's pitiable side, who cannot even think of other options. In a scene created with actor Lee Seong-uk, who plays Deputy Minister Choi, Mina's line, "Having no talent and no luck but still having a dream, so you try hard knowing your place," uttered with eyes full of emptiness, evokes extreme bitterness and sorrow and is counted among Aema's memorable scenes. With such detailed acting that brought the character to life and made viewers reflect on Aema, Lee So-i's passionate performance left a deep aftertaste.
In the end, Lee So-i created a powerful presence that viewers will remember the longest. Her captivating acting raised expectations for her future steps, and Lee So-i's activities are expected to continue in various works.
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