Shine (Acoustic Ver.) (2025)

10/10 Apo Nattawin illuminates Shine: A Stellar Debut as Dr. Trin

Set in 1969, against the backdrop of a politically delicate Thailand, this premiere invites us into a story that's as much about intellect as it is about ideology & at its center stands Dr. Trin Suwannaphas, brought to life with layered restraint by my favorite actor Apo Nattawin.
As Dr. Trin, APO is refined & luminous! A young man forged in intellect, privilege, and purpose. A prodigy who studied in France and came back with a vision. A purpose.
His voice is deeper, smoother, his diction is measured. Every gesture, every pause is intentional yet smooth.
Apo doesn't "act" rich. He embodies the saying "Great acting is invisible". From how he listens more than he speaks to how his eyes do the work of ten monologues. To how he folds his coat. Body language upright but never stiff, elegant without being performative.
My fav Trin Scenes: 1. That long, close-up shot of his beautifully chiseled face as he quietly marvels at the Moon landing with equal parts awe and subtle critique. Apo internalizes that wonder so deeply, then shifts into quiet condescension toward the elites who cheer "one giant leap for mankind" while so many still struggle to take even a single step here on Earth.
2. His face, caught between concern, panic, pain & detachment seeing the student protests as he thinks back to his traumatic memory reveals the scholar's dilemma: observe or intervene 3. The scene with his aunt where Trin's face blossoms like a flower, reveals a bond of true affection.
Apo plays it with such warmth. And in classic gentleman fashion, he offers to have dinner again, just to keep her heart full. A small moment, but deeply telling of who Trin is.
4. Oh, the Paris scenes -chef's kiss. Heartbreakingly beautiful. I'd watch an entire series of Claire & Trin. And Apo speaking French? Divine.
Many fans took issue with the dark lighting, but for me, it felt right, raw, atmospheric, and beautifully reflective of the era's mystique.
What didn't quite work for me was how quickly the scenes between Tanwa and Trin progressed, it felt a bit rushed for such layered characters.
Other characters worth mentioning -Thevi with her radiant smile, Victor's spitfire rebel energy, and Kreilert's quiet strength and mystery. Can't wait to see more of them.
As a fan who waited 2 years for Apo's return, I still can't believe TeeYai/ Born to be bad is dropping right after Shine!
Netflix in November? What a double blessing.

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