Rape, S&M, homoeroticism
10 May – Scenes of Joe Ma Tak Chung being massaged in a nude bath by Sammul Chan Kin Fung are only some of the steamy stuff you get to see on the TVB series "Relics Of An Emissary" that averaged 26 points in ratings last week, with 1.66 million viewers watching the drama, according to Apple Daily.
As some people begin to draw comparisons to the current hot Category III film "3D Sex And Zen: Extreme Ecstasy", the drama has ran afoul of family audiences who have complained to the broadcasting authority in Hong Kong over its "inappropriate content" during family viewing time.
A historical drama that follows Joe Ma's Zhu Di ascension to the throne as the Emperor Yan, many scenes are highly suggestive - Michael Tse Tin Wah peeking at a bathing Kate Tsui, a passionate French kiss between Michael and Kate, Joe whipped by Kate in a sadistic manner, and Sire Ma's rape scene.
According to JayneStars, Joe Ma said in a telephone interview from China: "In the series, Sammul Chan and I have a master-slave relationship. I don't know why they see it as having gay elements. However, I'm happy that many people are discussing the series. Historically, Emperor Yan pretended to be insane, but I don't know if he did in fact share a bath with Sam Po (Sammul Chan)."
Regarding Emperor Yan's S&M preference, Joe laughed, "Emperor Yan was a somewhat perverted figure; he was crazy and violent. I do not know the final results of the series. You should watch it as a historical drama, with entertaining aspects."
