179
424
12
1
4
8
10
1
18
12
4
1
5
31
1
15
2
1
8
6
3
8
19
9
17
27
The curse broke but so did my expectations at the end! Overall a fun watch!
The drama had the idea and bones of being an exceptional and unique story with its horror theme, curses lingering across lifetimes, ghosts seeking vengeance, star-crossed romances and a richly layered backstory dipped in Thai folklore and karmic justice. Very heavy and ambitious themes, and for the most part, it did manage to successfully capture my attention. Where it stumbles for me is the last episode!
The entire story revolves around Khemjira, a young man suffering from a curse stemming from his tragic family history, where every male heir is destined to die before turning 21. To seek help, he meets Pharan/Master, a skilled, reluctant but very hot shaman.
For me, the drama excelled at handling the curse part (for the most part). The main theme was reincarnations and choices made across lifetimes and karma being carried over. I don't agree with them in real life, per se, but if I just speak in context to the drama, it did make sense to me. It's a story about how knowingly or unknowingly, lies can be weaponised into something tragic.
Where it falters is the last episode. Before the finale episode, this was an easy 8.5- 9 to me and I kind of expected them to explain all the plot points logically. But watching the last episode felt like unwrapping a humongous present that is wrapped in layers, only to find something very underwhelming inside. You still appreciate the effort because it’s a gift… but that doesn’t make it any less disappointing.
My disappointment stems from the fact that, after building up such a solid reason for the curse, performing rituals and maintaining that tension for so long, and then resolving it so anti-climactically, was part shocking and part disappointing to me. I want to keep this review spoiler-free, so I won't discuss the details of the curse, but the resolution was more of "because it had to happen, because it is the last episode" rather than answering the actual whys. Also, I still didn't get answers as to why this was the last timeline. Not answering it looked like plot convenience and a loophole that should have been addressed.
Another thing that took me out a bit was the dialogue delivery. I don't know if it was me, but sometimes there were huge pauses and gaps between the lines. I don't know if it was a deliberate directing choice but it came out more as distracting than meaningful.
Coming to the Romance aspect, I have no complaints. I found both couples very endearing. Pharan and Khem’s chemistry is basically a masterclass in denial. Like, they could write a whole thesis titled “How to Not Be in Love While Obviously Being in Love.” I enjoyed the slow-burning vibe until it lasted.
Our second couple, Jet and Chan, had this chaotic, goofy vibe around them, and I love how good the communication was between them.
Also, props to the team for managing both couples so well. I never felt they ignored or sidelined the second couple for the mains. We got two love stories that stood on their own, yet they still fit perfectly into one larger narrative where everyone mattered. It felt balanced, intentional, and genuinely well-woven.
Another aspect of drama that impressed me was Rampheung as the antagonist. I loved how layered she was as a villain. I am glad they didn't make her a love-sick cartoonish ghost. Her backstory had reasons that justified her centuries of resentment. She was terryng and while she hasn't done great things, I couldn't help but empathise with her.
Acting-wise, there were some solid performances on the board, but a few misses too or should I say a miss. Starting with Namping as Khemjira, the centre of this storm. There is no denying that his character demands that fragile, scared look, but honestly, his performances don't match the intensity that the script demands. He came off as too blank. Instead of seeing his true vulnerable side, I see hesitation. I know it's his first project and by no means am I hating on him but when I put him in contrast with every other actor in the drama, he is weak in comparison.
Keng, as Master on the other hand, carries his role like someone who understands the emotional language of stillness. As Pharan, the reluctant shaman drawn into Khem’s cursed orbit, he manages to project both weariness and care with minimal dialogue.
Green as Rampheung is easily the drama's heart. Every scene she’s in feels ten degrees more charged. Rampheung’s blend of vengeance and sorrow could have slipped into caricature, but Green keeps it simmering rather than boiling over.
FirstOne, as Jet was like the emotional palate cleanser this series desperately needs. Where others drown in curses and guilt, Jet brought spontaneity and warmth. He nailed all the emotional scenes so well.
Tle as Chan isn't the most dynamic character, but his presence feels reliable. Tle nailed the needy vibe.
Production-wise, it was excellent. The sets were detailed, and all the rituals and supernatural battles were choreographed with care. The horror elements, though not plentiful, were executed nicely too. Make-up and costumes were on point. The choice of opening credits is also praiseworthy. It matched the overall vibe perfectly.
Overall, while it was not perfect or how I expected it to tie all the knots, I did enjoy it. It was a very ambitious project from DMD. There are definitely a few "it is what it is" moments, but for a one-time watch, it was an entertaining ride.
The entire story revolves around Khemjira, a young man suffering from a curse stemming from his tragic family history, where every male heir is destined to die before turning 21. To seek help, he meets Pharan/Master, a skilled, reluctant but very hot shaman.
For me, the drama excelled at handling the curse part (for the most part). The main theme was reincarnations and choices made across lifetimes and karma being carried over. I don't agree with them in real life, per se, but if I just speak in context to the drama, it did make sense to me. It's a story about how knowingly or unknowingly, lies can be weaponised into something tragic.
Where it falters is the last episode. Before the finale episode, this was an easy 8.5- 9 to me and I kind of expected them to explain all the plot points logically. But watching the last episode felt like unwrapping a humongous present that is wrapped in layers, only to find something very underwhelming inside. You still appreciate the effort because it’s a gift… but that doesn’t make it any less disappointing.
My disappointment stems from the fact that, after building up such a solid reason for the curse, performing rituals and maintaining that tension for so long, and then resolving it so anti-climactically, was part shocking and part disappointing to me. I want to keep this review spoiler-free, so I won't discuss the details of the curse, but the resolution was more of "because it had to happen, because it is the last episode" rather than answering the actual whys. Also, I still didn't get answers as to why this was the last timeline. Not answering it looked like plot convenience and a loophole that should have been addressed.
Another thing that took me out a bit was the dialogue delivery. I don't know if it was me, but sometimes there were huge pauses and gaps between the lines. I don't know if it was a deliberate directing choice but it came out more as distracting than meaningful.
Coming to the Romance aspect, I have no complaints. I found both couples very endearing. Pharan and Khem’s chemistry is basically a masterclass in denial. Like, they could write a whole thesis titled “How to Not Be in Love While Obviously Being in Love.” I enjoyed the slow-burning vibe until it lasted.
Our second couple, Jet and Chan, had this chaotic, goofy vibe around them, and I love how good the communication was between them.
Also, props to the team for managing both couples so well. I never felt they ignored or sidelined the second couple for the mains. We got two love stories that stood on their own, yet they still fit perfectly into one larger narrative where everyone mattered. It felt balanced, intentional, and genuinely well-woven.
Another aspect of drama that impressed me was Rampheung as the antagonist. I loved how layered she was as a villain. I am glad they didn't make her a love-sick cartoonish ghost. Her backstory had reasons that justified her centuries of resentment. She was terryng and while she hasn't done great things, I couldn't help but empathise with her.
Acting-wise, there were some solid performances on the board, but a few misses too or should I say a miss. Starting with Namping as Khemjira, the centre of this storm. There is no denying that his character demands that fragile, scared look, but honestly, his performances don't match the intensity that the script demands. He came off as too blank. Instead of seeing his true vulnerable side, I see hesitation. I know it's his first project and by no means am I hating on him but when I put him in contrast with every other actor in the drama, he is weak in comparison.
Keng, as Master on the other hand, carries his role like someone who understands the emotional language of stillness. As Pharan, the reluctant shaman drawn into Khem’s cursed orbit, he manages to project both weariness and care with minimal dialogue.
Green as Rampheung is easily the drama's heart. Every scene she’s in feels ten degrees more charged. Rampheung’s blend of vengeance and sorrow could have slipped into caricature, but Green keeps it simmering rather than boiling over.
FirstOne, as Jet was like the emotional palate cleanser this series desperately needs. Where others drown in curses and guilt, Jet brought spontaneity and warmth. He nailed all the emotional scenes so well.
Tle as Chan isn't the most dynamic character, but his presence feels reliable. Tle nailed the needy vibe.
Production-wise, it was excellent. The sets were detailed, and all the rituals and supernatural battles were choreographed with care. The horror elements, though not plentiful, were executed nicely too. Make-up and costumes were on point. The choice of opening credits is also praiseworthy. It matched the overall vibe perfectly.
Overall, while it was not perfect or how I expected it to tie all the knots, I did enjoy it. It was a very ambitious project from DMD. There are definitely a few "it is what it is" moments, but for a one-time watch, it was an entertaining ride.
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