"When Heaven Burns" sparks controversy
22 Nov – TVB's management may have ignored the drama "Heaven Burns" for two years, but the netizens have not. When the drama's plot was released, it also sparked a lively discussion online.
According to JayneStars, the series particularly attracted fans of music group, Beyond, due to the similarities in the plot. The story centers around four band members and the tragic death of one member 18 years ago, and Beyond member, Wong Ka Kui, did come to an accidental death during a 1993 concert tour in Japan.
As the plot of "When Heaven Burns" started 18 years ago, fans became aware of the references to music group, Beyond. The characters also bear similarities to their alleged musical counterparts, such as Moses Chan's, who enjoyed Muay Thai boxing like Beyond member, Paul Wong, while Bowie Lam and Astrid Chan were replicas of Wong Ka Keung and his Japanese wife.
In addition, producer Jonathan Chik invited Paul Wong to sing the series' theme and ending songs, sparking further controversy.
"When Heaven Burns" have begun broadcasting in Hong Kong on Monday, 21 November. Hong Kong actors, Moses Chan, Bowie Lam, Kenny Wong, and Stanley Cheung forming a band called Happiness and Anger together. However, While mountain climbing, the men were trapped in the snow and soon resorted to cannibalism upon their friend, who was ill, in order to survive.
Regarding the accusations of referencing Beyond, Moses stated that "When Heaven Burns" is actually focused on the theme of humanity. When it was pointed out that Moses' character loved Muay Thai boxing, which was Paul Wong's passion, Moses remarked, "Really? I did not know that Paul enjoys Muay Thai boxing!
He added, "The story spoke about a tragic accident occurring 18 years ago, which was the same time Wong Ka Kui's death occurred. It was just a coincidence since "When Heaven Burns" should have been broadcasted last year."
