Drama Digest
Starring Singto Prachaya Ruangroj, this Thai drama is a much too relatable teenage love story. Two childhood friends and neighbors, Tiw and Tat, walk to school everyday and spend a lot of time together. Often they annoy each other but have each other’s backs. Tiw’s friends even accuse Tat of being like his mom and poke fun at him for not wanting to keep a phone. Little do they know that the two things are connected, as phones remind him of the day his mom died. Tiw also shares a complicated relationship with his dad. Little by little, Tat becomes increasingly crucial to Tiw as she helps him with work online, and is often there to pick his spirits up. Sooner or later, you do find yourself hooked.
The Feel-Good Part
The first romantic moment does not occur till episode 4.The buildup to it is worth it, as the two main characters are properly fleshed out. Flashbacks are employed often to provide backstory, but they never become burdensome. Dialogue is naturally funny, carrying the right blend of teenage cringe worthiness and sincerity. Resultantly, the humor is not heavy-handed but free-flowing. Tiw’s dynamic with his dad is challenging and relatable to all; tension is bubbling underneath the surface. Internet becomes a conduit for bringing the leads closer, as they’re neighbors and share an internet connection. This adds an entirely new dimension to the ‘girl next door’ scenario.
The Disappointing Factor
Adult characters demanded better writing. Tiw’s grandma is more or less a one-note character. The overall tone is a problem, as some poignant scenes aren’t as effective as they should be. Many people might find the episodes too short, as the story doesn’t move forward much in the beginning.
In-Depth Analysis
Music used for conveying mood is composed well. From the anxious initial flashback to the first romantic scene, the background score is a part of the story. Beginning with Tiw, Tat, and his father sitting around a table, Tiw asks “how did it begin?” and recounts recent events. The first four episodes are what he recounts, after which the action returns to the table. Such a structure is appealing, as it provides intensity and drama. It also encapsulates his strained relationship with his father, who wanted to be a sports person but couldn’t make it big in time. He had to quit and get a job. Seeing that his son wants to be in esports, he becomes upset because he’s faced the grind, and doesn’t want his son to go through the same struggles. The tension between the two is tangible, and can be cut with a knife. Cast choices are impressive, as every actor fits the bill. Watching Singto as a teenager in this irresistible Thai drama, you won’t guess he is 28 years old. Kudos should go to the make-up and styling department, especially for making the creative choice of giving him a crew cut.
Star Power
Singto Prachaya Ruangroj has some acting chops, and they are on display here. Afterday is very charming as Tat, and the chemistry between both is electric.
Overall Opinion
Here’s a teenage Thai drama that wears its emotions up its sleeve, with all the sincerity and awkwardness of a real teenager. That quality precisely makes it a valuable addition to the watchlist.
