Maya (2025)

Mediocre revenge drama

The backbone of any revenge drama lies in its intricate and compelling plots that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Unfortunately, "Maya" falls short in this department. The revenge plots lack the gripping intensity that is essential to hook the audience. There are times I feel this drama is more like Gossip Girl, but with a less satisfying ending.

A notable aspect of this series is the inclusion of cello playing as a recurring motif throughout the series. However, the execution of this musical element, especially when the use of a body double is too obvious, comes across as rather superficial and lacking in authenticity. And while the production values of this lakorn are good, there are some noticeable flaws in the props and set design too.

Despite its many shortcomings, one of the saving graces of this series is the commendable performances delivered by the cast members. Punpun Sutatta, in particular, shines in her portrayal of yet another seductress character. While some may argue that she is typecast in such roles, her acting prowess cannot be denied. But Maya as a character is pretty flat, even a good acting couldn't make her interesting. And while this is not the first time Punpun and Son Yuke have been paired together, and while both of them have acted very well, their chemistry is somewhat lacking.

Overall, "Maya" is a lakorn that falls somewhere in the middle of the spectrum – not bad, but not particularly good either. It may not leave a lasting impression, but it offers something decent to pass the time.

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Akin is supposedly the main character, but screen time wise, his father gets more screen time. While I do like that his character is mild mannered (except when he gets the hots for Maya lol) until he became the chairman, I still feel that his character is a bit too mild, like he's still playing safe not to show his hands too soon. But with other villains with stronger personality, his character is left forgotten. Sometimes I feel like I haven't seen Akin appear on screen with important plot development.

Maya's character eventually grew from merely a seductress to something more. Although she took way too long to get Akin to recover his memories.

Also poor Parnkaew, I'd be a bitch too if I'm constantly being called stupid by both my brother and husband. I don't believe she's a bimbo, I think given the chance she can come up with a good comeback too, I didn't like how her character is being used as Saksit'a puppet. I like Claudia's acting, honestly, she's great at being the villain but she's also good at acting pitiful.

Even though initially Sophie was reluctant to help Maya with her revenge, over time they become closer with Kwan. I like it that these 3 girls are close and take care of each other.

Storyline wise, the first half was pretty boring. Maya went all in too soon, playing with both Akin and It at the same time that it was puzzling but it kinda make sense as the result of the conflict brought her seduction makes up for the following episodes. Although the whole plot of music therapy was forgotten so fast it's almost funny. Overall, I think this drama has a lot of potential with talented cast but ended up being pretty disappointing.

I find that the female characters are dressed in revealing clothing too often and unnecessarily. I get it, they're seductresses, but even modest clothing can be sexy as well. Sometimes it comes off as tacky too.

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