This review may contain spoilers
I've never felt so single without feeling bitter
Us is a top-tier GL show. They had a vision and executed it well. The show explores themes of family, trauma, and loss, with each character contributing to the theme through their own perspectives. Notably, Dokrak and Kawi's differing coping mechanisms in response to their toxic home environment: Kawi internalizes blame and continues to let his father control him, while Dokrak takes action to remove herself from the situation and find peace. Another example is Pam and Nene, who both initially sought revenge against Khem for their parents' death. However, Pam's openness to others led her to find happiness through her connection with Dokrak, whereas Nene's unresolved grief over her mother's loss consumed her, allowing bitterness to define her life. The show does a great job of examining its themes through the contrasting responses of its characters, each with different values and personalities.The story keeps it moving through a clear three-act structure. The first act sets the stage, introducing characters and their relationships. The second act explores Pam's turmoil as she grapples with her desire for revenge and her blossoming romance with Dokrak. The third act puts their bond to the test, presenting challenges where they must support each other and the people around them. Although it rushes through certain events in the last two episodes, the show is well-paced and engaging throughout.
Bonnie is the heart of the show as Dokrak, the embodiment of positivity. She convincingly portrays Dokrak's patience and empathy, making her a compelling lead. Emi also delivers a standout performance as Pam, skillfully conveying a wide range of emotions, from sorrow and anger to joy, even in scenes with minimal dialogue. The rest of the cast is equally impressive, with Sing and Mim making lasting impressions in their characters. The entire cast had great chemistry and is well-suited to their roles, with each actor bringing their character to life in a believable way. Bonnie and Sing were born to play siblings, while Nid and Emi portrayed a loving grandmother-granddaughter bond. Romantic chemistry was created in 2024 when Emi and Bonnie walked on set for the first day of filming. If you want to feel bad about your love life but feel so fulfilled at the same time, watch EmiBonnie as PamRak.
From 10 Years Ticket to Home School to 23.5, and now, to Us, the more I want to kiss the ground P'Fon walks on. She adapts her style to suit each story. P'Fon and her team use production not only as a backdrop for the characters but also as a device to tell the story with them. The show looks and feels warm and heartfelt, like Pam and Dokrak's story, but shifts to cold, blue tones when the scene calls for an intense atmosphere. The sets are well-crafted, reflecting the characters who inhabit them - from Khem's stark, oppressive mansion to Grandma Bua's cozy and lively home. Hair, makeup, and styling are appropriate and believable for their characters and situations.
The sound design is exceptional, with music choices that perfectly capture the emotional essence of each scene at just the right time. Episode 7 in particular, Pam sang one of the OST songs to Dokrak and it made the song a character in its own right. It helped to tell the story in a way that's more than just existing in the background.
Overall, good soup. Highly, highly recommend.
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