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Neko is the only reason I don't regret watching this series.
Most GL series either have good, satisfactory, or poor production values. But in my opinion, Roller Coaster excels in the production aspects. It’s not just about the cinematography, but also good visual storytelling and seamless editing. Kantana Post really lives up to its reputation. I also like the well-balanced ambient sound and good audio mixing, which most series usually don't pay close attention to. The only technical thing I’m not a fan of is the driving scenes VFX. I wish they could do the actual car tracking shot to give more emotional depth to the scenes as most of the scenes look floating and distracted.In the acting department, Pundao and Shelly, being newcomers, did okay, and there’s still room for improvement in the future. Pundao still needs a lot of practice, as her dialogue delivery sounds pretty rigid. But I personally think Neko deserved a standing ovation for her performance as Air. She ate and left no crumbs. She nailed every action and emotion so effectively, especially with her expressive eyes, whether it's happy or heavy scenes. She really brings nuance to this series with her performance alone—no fan service, no hype. NEKO NAERUNCHARA LERTPRASERT... SHE'S PURE TALENT. #TeamAir. Without her, this series would certainly feels bland. I think Neko is the one doing most of the heavy lifting but getting less recognition. And Roller Coaster is one of very few GL series with a good male character we can root for.
Now the storylines/plots. I've read the book and there were some chapters and parts that I don't quite like, especially with the 'harmless flirting' that’s pretty much predictable that it will lead somewhere. Whether it's morally right or wrong, let's leave the argument for another space and time. But in the series, while I still dislike those parts and there’s something about the changes that put me off a bit, the plots flow at a nice pace until the end. Pacharawan Chaipuwarat's script manages to bring the book to life, but with some changes that did not quite impress me. And I’m never one to care about NC scenes and the hype, and I believe those scenes or the execution don't define the quality of a series, so it won’t even affect my rating one bit.
Honestly, this series really surprised me by how well it's been made, plus a good main OST, but still not up to 'the best' or 'outstanding' just yet for me to rate it higher. It feels good soaking in the great visuals and production quality; I would give a 9 for production quality alone, but that’s not the case here. Overall, while it’s a well-produced GL series, it's still lacking in some areas.
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The story of closeted lesbians in ancient history
Unlike many historical dramas that dive into politics and betrayal, Mhom Ped Sawan takes a refreshing turn of exploring the issue of เล่นเพื่อน, or ‘len pheuan'. This term translates to ‘playing with friends’ that refers to the intimate female companion or, in easy words, the lesbianism. Set in the 18th-century Rattanakosin era, this series follows a typical template of Thai historical drama with some politics, strong misogyny and sexism, but with a sapphic and gay twist. For those unfamiliar, ‘Mhom Ped Sawan’ is an ancient story penned by Khun Suwan, a well-known poet from that time.The series takes a wider look at how same-sex relationships were perceived and accepted in that time period, along with the complexities of love across different social classes, particularly within the palace walls and its social circles. It also highlights the presence of LGBT allies during that era. While the series is more focused on drama, it still has some interesting moments of romance and the tension that come with it. But with 30 episodes, some plots are a bit draggy and repetitive.
One worth noting feature of this series is its skillful incorporation of Thai culture throughout the plots. The elements of poetry, literature, dance and play, cuisine, and palace etiquette are beautifully represented through the characters and their arcs.
When it comes to acting, all the cast members did a fantastic job. If there's one problem, it's Film and Tubtim’s chemistry. While their individual performances are good, their on-screen chemistry isn’t strong enough. Some scenes come off as a bit detached and lack the warmth you'd expect from lovers. In contrast, Princess Vilas and Khun Suwan's chemistry stand out more. Their companionship is endearing, and even though they’re not romantically linked, their dynamic is way more fulfilling than Mom Kham and Mom Sud.
This series has a good production quality and stays consistent from the first episode all the way through. But one drawback, in my opinion, is the use of camera angles and certain framing for the kiss and intimate scenes between Mom Kham and Mom Sud rather than showcasing the real kiss/performances. I wonder if this was done for the actresses' comfort, perhaps due to their inexperience with such scenes, (which I doubted that was the case), or if it was the director's choice or the channel's restriction. But regardless, it really detracts from the authenticity and believability of their relationship and undermines the emotional depth of their characters.
Despite its LGBTQ+ theme, it’s quite noticeable that this series is crafted through a hetero lens. But taking into account the cultural context, the time and place setting, and the target audience of ThaiPBS, the overall execution is quite good. While certain aspects of the storyline may falter, it’s still a good drama for those who like historical drama with less complicated palace politics.
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Nicely crafted, dramatized depictions of historical figures.
‘Empress of Ayodhaya’ is a fictionalized story of Phraya Mae Yuhua Sri Sudachan, the one of four first-class concubines of King Chairachathirat and her journey to power and influence in the ancient kingdom of Ayodhaya.When it comes to drama centered on monarchs and royal courts, betrayals, alliances, and backstabbing are things to expect. Though the story is not something particularly novel, the storylines are nicely crafted and presented in fast-paced and engaging plots. The affair between Sri Sudachan and Phan Butsrithep adds a more complex layer to the story as they plot to take over the throne.
One thing I like about this drama is the well-developed protagonists and antagonists. Davika did a pretty good job portraying Jinda/Sri Sudachan, distinguishing it from other historical roles she played before. Though, at times her acting seems to lack impact, she managed to bring complexity to the character. Film Thanapat's performance as devious Phan Butsrithep is commendable. The character deserves all the hate.
While this drama doesn't depict a heroic, strong woman, it shows a journey that takes us back to a time when women had to rely on their wit and intelligence to navigate the complex and often treacherous world of royal courts. It doesn’t always take physical strength to win over something. And I also like that this drama focuses less on the rivalry between the four concubines (Thao Indrasuren, Thao Indratevee and Thao Sri Chulalak) but rather on the significant roles those women played in Sri Sudachan's rise, treachery, and downfall.
It’s recommended for anyone who likes the complexity of ancient Thai history. Just bear in mind that this drama is a dramatized depiction of historical events and figures, so it's not historically accurate. Simply enjoy it for the dramatic storylines it offers.
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A well-crafted, inspiring series
‘Mad Unicorn’ is a series that focuses on the remarkable journey of building a unicorn business from scratch. The show may not be on everyone's radar, but it is certainly one that packs a powerful punch in terms of storytelling and message. The straightforward nature of the storytelling is one of its greatest strengths. I love how this series does not rely on overly complex plot twists or melodramatic elements to keep viewers engaged. Instead, it focuses on the raw emotions and experiences of its characters, making it a refreshingly authentic and relatable watch.I personally think that the most intriguing aspect of this series is its exploration of the sacrifices and challenges that come with pursuing a dream. The show does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of the business world. In addition to that, this series excels in its handling the subplots and conflicts. The show delves into a variety of topics that add depth and dimension to the story such as friendship, loyalty, colleagues relationship, rivalry, family issues etc.
The most outstanding element of this series is the stellar performances delivered by Ice Natara and Jane Yeh. They’re the stars of the show. Ice Natara's acting is nothing short of impressive. His ability to convey the grit, determination, and vulnerability of Santi truly shines through in every scene. I'm so used to seeing him playing a villain that I almost didn't recognize him. Similarly, Jane's nuanced portrayal of an experienced finance officer who has overcome her fair share of challenges is both captivating and inspiring. Together, they form a dynamic duo that keeps viewers hooked with their on-screen chemistry.
Aside from the stellar performances, one cannot overlook its exceptional production values. Every aspect of the series, from makeup to wardrobe to props, is meticulously crafted. Even the smallest details, like the HTML coding to the biggest props as a billboard, are given careful attention, adding to the overall authenticity of the show.
While this series may be categorized as a drama, it is anything but ordinary. From the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity to the value of teamwork and mentorship, this series delivers its messages in a way that is both compelling and thought-provoking. Whether you're a fan of drama, entrepreneurship, or simply good storytelling, "Mad Unicorn" is sure to captivate and inspire you.
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More psychological than retributive.
The premise of ‘Master of the House’ is nothing original, but it's an intriguing watch with some psychological twists, which the plot centered around the rich family and their servants. Triggers warning: you need to have a tolerance for violence, substance, rape, and sexual content while watching this drama.When it comes to revenge dramas, it’s crucial to have captivating, complex characters and a gripping storyline, and while this drama has all the elements, the execution is rather weak and lacks impact in some ways. The story moves at a decent pace, and it manages to blend all the lies, deception, psychological trauma, and bullying with the good performances of each character. The thriller is there, but when it focuses a lot on the inheritance war, it feels more psychological than retributive.
The only thing that really amazes me about this drama is the cinematography and the production quality. They are outstanding and powerful. It's an impressive improvement in the camerawork quality in Thai dramas. Overall, if you're looking for an escapist service of revenge, this drama is an option to consider.
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Not the best, but still a decent prequel.
If you’re a fan of the ‘Art of the Devil’ franchise or have ever watched any or all of the movies, you’re likely familiar with the infamous Panor. The story transports us to the 80s, delving into Panor’s teenage years and exploring her life in a rather pitiful way before she became an iconic notorious figure in the Long Khong universe.The production quality is truly impressive. Every aspect, from the cinematography and costumes to the sets, props, and special effects makeup, is crafted with great care. The details of every ritual involved are both scary and fascinating at the same time. I like how this film injects the elements of white magic, which is portrayed by Masri, a Muslim female shaman, reflecting the diverse practices of shamanism across different faiths and cultures.
Another noteworthy thing about this film is the performances. I personally think this is Cherprang's best performance to date. Having watched some of her dramas, I’m impressed with how well she carries Panor on her shoulder with such authenticity. She manages to shed the typical leading lady appearance to embody a more complex and darker character.
Despite the great execution, there are a few points that, in my opinion, reduced the perfection of the film. One, the storytelling feels rushed and a bit flat. When you try to cover many things in a limited timeframe, it’s easy to overlook significant plot points while overemphasizing less important details. Two, it seems like this prequel is prioritizing the gore over character development, resulting in a lack of character depth, even for Panor herself. And the minimal backstory for supporting characters also diminishes their appeal. Some characters are introduced only to disappear quickly, without enough context to justify their roles. Lastly, while the incorporation of CGI effects helped enhance the horror experience, it's not quite polished, making some scenes appear 'floating.'
As a horror fan, I’d say the scary level is moderate. There aren’t many jumpscares like other ghost movies. I’m not sure if it’s because I'm getting older that I seem to handle scary movie with much more ease. However, the unraveling of the sinister mysteries is intriguing. Like its predecessors, this film is not short of the gruesome scenes that are definitely not for the faint-hearted and weak-stomached. What would the ‘Art of the Devil’ films be without those graphic scenes, right? So brace yourself. And if you’re afraid of geckos, beware.
While the storylines may stumble here and there, this film excels in delivering horror and raw brutality. It stands out as one of the earnest depictions of Thai beliefs in black magic and witchcraft. Overall, it's not the best installment, but worth watching.
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An empowering, edgy period drama.
‘Bangkok Blossom’ is a raucous period drama that reinforces the reality that throughout history, prostitutes have been at the mercy of power and wealth. While this drama emphasizes depravity and lewd practices, the main focus is on women fighting for freedom. It also touches on loyalty, trust, and the importance of friends and family.This drama has a good story structure where tension never really lets up from start to finish. The plots really draw you in at once. There's always something to look forward to in each episode. There are also empowering moments, romance, and heartfelt actions. As the story revolves around a brothel and prostitution, there’s zero nudity. The depictions of sex are expected, but the scenes are done through good direction, great camera work, and acting. Please be aware of violence as well.
This drama also has good character development and growth. Engfa, Goy, and Aom Piyada did an amazing job with their respective roles, but in my opinion, Charlette Wasita deserves the most praise for her portrayal of Tianyod. Despite being the youngest among the actors, I personally think she shines the most.
Although it's a good drama in many aspects, there are some flaws that I don't think make it worthy of a perfect 10. There are some predictable plots, the details of the props are not so good, and the boyfriends are not so useful. They may be attractive, kind guys, and heroic in their attempts, but their impact isn't that great.
With all the intense conflicts, the musical portions really help balance the intensity, adding more entertaining value to this drama. It’s nice to watch a period piece that can pull off modern music. Overall, this is a good period drama with well-established themes of patriarchy, survival, social status, and class. Bangkok Blossom is a solid recommendation and will have you totally addicted.
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It's a shame that even GL fans are sleeping on this series.
As a horror and GL fan, I found this series to be a breath of fresh air, offering a perfect blend of suspense, romance, and captivating storytelling. Unlike other book adaptations in the GL genre, Runaway stays true to the source material, effectively capturing the story's essence and characters in a way that is both engaging and satisfying. The series does a great job of honoring the original work, bringing the story to life on screen in a captivating way.A praiseworthy feature is the performance. The actors give strong performances, really bringing their characters to life with depth and authenticity and pulling viewers into the emotional journey of both the protagonists and the antagonist. Moreover, the story is well-paced, with each episode unraveling new twists and turns that keep the audience on the edge of their seats. The series manages to maintain a perfect balance between horror and romance. While the series primarily focuses on horror, the inclusion of romance in the story is done tastefully, never veering off track or losing sight of its key plot points. The slow-burn romance between the leads adds an extra layer of complexity to the narrative. Even without love scenes, the chemistry between the protagonists shines through. The slow-burn is slowburning.
Another aspect that stands out is the top-notch production values. The meticulous attention to detail in set design, props, and even makeup and wardrobe is commendable. Under Oat Vatanyu's direction, the series creates a visually stunning yet darker world that feels immersive and atmospheric. The seamless editing, especially the transition between the past and present, really helps build emotional rhythm throughout the series. On top of that, the excellent audio mixing and color grading further enhance the scary mood and tone of the show.
While Runaway excels in many aspects, there are some areas that could use some improvements. Some of the CGI in the series looks a bit rough, and the ghosts are very typically portrayed. They come off funny rather than scary. Plus, the level of horror is rather tame, with very minimal and predictable jump scares. So it's suitable for scaredy-cats and those who prefer a more subtle approach to horror entertainment. But for a hardcore horror fan like me, the scary parts feel a bit underwhelming.
In conclusion, Runaway simply shines on its own and manages to carve its own niche in the world of GL dramas, offering something new that is sure to captivate audiences. Plus, it proves that even without love scenes, it's still possible to make a series an excellent one. It's a shame that this series doesn't get the recognition it deserves even from GL fans.
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Well acted, entertaining, good plot twist.
As typical and predictable as a time loop concept film can be, this film is not simply following the story of Mesa, a rich girl who finds herself trapped in a time loop. This film is more than just a romantic comedy. It dives into themes of second chances and the importance of living in the present moment and even explores spiritual beliefs and the things we often overlook in life. Our life isn't always about us. And it also carries a meaningful message with its plot twist. Without giving away any spoilers, the twist adds more to the story than simply an effort to break the time loop curse.While the storylines seem quite simple and lack proper backstory, this film has a good plot development. It's easy to follow from one story to another. Plus, the production values are top-notch. Everything from the vibrant cinematography to the overall production is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The visuals are captivating, drawing viewers into the world of the story.
In my opinion, the highlight of this film is Toey Jarinporn's performance. Toey's portrayal of the protagonist is both funny and endearing. It's hard not to love her. On the other hand, Charlette Wasita shines in her role, impressing me with her nuanced acting. The supporting cast also performed wonderfully.
One thing that I personally like about this film compared to other Thai comedy films is that it doesn't rely on slapstick humor. Instead, it blends funny dialogue and good acting to create a light-hearted and entertaining experience. The humor is well-placed and complements the emotional layers of the story. Simple jokes yet effective.
Overall, 'Same Day With Someone' is considered an entertaining film rather than impressive. It's well-executed and well-acted, but there are still a few minor flaws, a few aspects that can be improved.
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A cute romance with no major conflict.
This is a type of GL series that you can re-watch without skipping an episode, and still enjoy it. The theme is pretty typical, but nothing too serious or with heavy conflicts. While it might drawn comparisons to the certain series due to the office romance and boss-employee relationship, this series stands out in its own way. It captures the innocence emotions of young love as it explores the unexpected love.The look and feel of this drama are light, fun, and pretty straightforward. Given that it’s just 5 episodes, it’s expected to be fast-paced with rushed storylines. I wish it could either stretch a little longer or written it more neatly, so that the plots could develop better, maybe by delving into why Khun Weala was afraid of love. That part seems to be hanging. The conflict is resolved too quickly, leaving no room for the audience to feel the tension. But nevertheless, the cute moments between the leads managed to make you smile. A lot can be improved especially in terms of production values and storytelling. Considering that this is Bmine and Near’s first series, I’d say it’s not bad.
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Revenge drama at its finest.
Among Thai revenge dramas I’ve watched so far, Thicha is one of very few with solid and neat execution. From the storylines, props and set details, and suspense elements, everything is great. Thicha’s revenge plot isn’t about killing those who have hurt her, but delves deeper into the complexities of exposing wrongdoings, seeking justice and wanting to stop the vicious cycle of abuse and violence those people have caused to her and other people. But just like any other revenge dramas, it’s important to understand that in the end, no one will be left unhurt.Other than well-crafted storyline, the essence of this series lies in the compelling character development and stellar performances from each member of the cast. From the main to the supporting character, they successfully bring their character to life with such nuance and depth. Bussara and the rest of the antagonists deserve praise for making you despise them to the core. Just when you think those devils can't get more shitty than they already have been, they prove you wrong. Among all the cast, I’m really impressed by Xiang Pornsroung’s diverse acting as Phu.
The most acclaim goes to Baifern for her excellent performance as Thicha. It is fascinating how she carries the series on her shoulder with such perfection and portrays Thicha without making her a stereotypically strong female character. She’s an empowering character, as strong as her motivation. Her strength lies in her complexity. And despite her resilience and strong will to uncover the truth, she’s still a woman with flaws and weaknesses.
This series has excellent suspense and tension build up. The pacing is just right, with each episode leaving viewers eager to know what will happen next. The clever use of cliffhangers ensures that there is never a dull moment. But above all, the message conveyed behind the revenge is particularly noteworthy.
Overall, it's a good example of a revenge drama done right. If you’re looking for a drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you wanting more, look no further.
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Entertaining, but could've been done better
The series kicked off with a promising start, drawing viewers in with its charm and humor. The initial episodes set the stage for what seemed to be an exciting journey ahead. However, despite the promising start, the story started to stumble in the middle with some scenes feeling a bit dragged out. As the series attempted to weave together various plotlines, certain plot twists and turns lacked the punch needed to elevate the narrative. Still, it managed to regain momentum towards the end, making a good finish in the final episodes. The crude jokes? Honestly, it all comes down to how you feel about them. Personally, I think they're well-placed and not overly done.I personally think one of the highlights of this series is the performances delivered by James Jirayu and Bella Ranee. It's a comeback of Thai beloved koojin people have been waiting for. The duo's acting prowess shines through, bringing authenticity to their characters. Even with very minimal (or should I call it the awkward) kiss scenes, their on-screen chemistry is undeniably amazing, adding an extra layer of charm to the series. Plus, the wardrobes are fantastic too.
While the acting and chemistry between the lead actors are commendable, the CGI in the show really needs improvement. The effects come off as unconvincing. Also, the theme of black magic felt overused and cliched, failing to bring anything new to the table as I've seen similar stuff in other Ch3 shows.
In conclusion, while it may fall short in certain areas, the series is entertaining and offers a lighthearted experience for fans of the lead actors. If you're looking for something with a mix of romance, comedy, and drama, this series is one you can consider.
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A good remake.
When it comes to remakes, there’s often a fine line between paying homage to the original and creating a carbon copy. But this Philippines version of "Bad Genius" manages to walk that line, offering audiences a fresh and engaging take on the well-loved Thai drama.While the core storyline remains the same in the Philippines version, the overall vibe and energy of the series are distinctly Filipino. There is a sense of local flavor that adds an extra layer of depth to the narrative not only in the setting, but the overall look and tone. It’s not simply a retelling of the same tale; it is a reinterpretation that stands on its own merits. This version also boasts impressive production values and in my opinion, way better than other Viva One’s series I’ve watched before.
I think one of the most notable things about this remake is Atasha Muhlach's portrayal of Lin. Her interpretation of Lin is both faithful to the original character and also brings something new to the table. And what surprised me is that this series is her first full series. I personally like this Pinoy Lin than the Thai Lin. Muhlach's performance is a testament to her talent as an actress and a promising sign of things to come. The rest of the cast did pretty well, only that I think Gab and Hyacinth could improve more with their acting.
Overall, the Philippines version is an example of how a remake can be done right. Of course, there are some flaws, but with its good production values and distinctly Filipino vibe, this remake is something to consider for fans of the original and newcomers alike.
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This movie is many things, but it failed in whatever it intended to be.
I don’t know where to begin with this movie. The premise of a woman trying to break free from the life under her husband's oppression while dealing with issues like migration, domestic violence, and traumas of the past is interesting enough, but it doesn’t really offer anything new beyond what’s expected. At first, it seems like a neo-noir film with a touch of lesbian romanticism, which looks promising to me, but it slowly becomes bland. As the story unfolds, the plots start to get weak and weaker, to the point that it makes me lose interest in whatever is going to happen next. The plot twist is so ambiguous, leaving the ending/resolution so unsatisfying. I couldn’t pinpoint any compelling things about this movie, and I don’t even know where this movie even stands.Fan Bingbing and Lee Joo Young both perform well, but their performances seem to be underutilized by the weak screenplay. Binbing’s character has very little development and lacks the depth to make her memorable. While Joo Young’s character has its own backstory, it’s not enough to further enhance her significance either.
While this movie delves into romance, incorporating the same-sex love scene, it's not about exploring or experimenting with sexuality in any way. And the scene doesn't significantly alter the plot and is unable to make an impact in any way other than simply establishing the sexual tension between the two women. So, is this an LGBT romance movie? No, it's not. It's more like a rough estimate that doesn't really capture the authentic queer experience.
This movie has an intriguing story and conflicts, but it failed to live up to its potential. The lack of finesse in storytelling and character growth and the failure to effectively communicate its intentions make it fall into the bad movie section.
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Mind-bending, gripping thriller.
Set in a classic haunted house, one might expect this series to give you countless jump scares and glimpses of ghosts. But with a unique blend of Thai horror formula, a mystery solving and unexpected plot twist, this series diverges from scary dramas I’ve seen before. Although the plots can feel occasionally dark, I found myself pleasantly surprised by how easy it was for me to follow through the mind-bending journey. I'm hooked from start to finish.Another highlight of this series is the exceptional performances delivered by the cast. From the main actors to the supporting roles, each member of the ensemble brings their A-game to the table. While certain characters have relatively weak backstories, their nuanced portrayals add depth and complexity to the story, creating a sense of authenticity that resonates with viewers.
Like any drama series, Don't Come Home is not without flaws. There are a few minor plot holes, and it drags out a bit in the middle, but the appropriate pace helps the story unfold nicely. And it's worth mentioning that behind the suspense showcased, there's an important message at its core. Overall, ‘Don't Come Home’ may not be a perfect thriller drama series, but it certainly delivers on the promise of excitement and suspense.
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