Wiman Nam

In the lush setting of a remote durian orchard, "The Paradise of Thorns" presents a poignant narrative filled with love, loss, and legal battles. The story follows Thongkam and Sek, a gay couple whose lives are shattered by tragedy when Sek dies, leaving Thongkam to navigate grief and ownership of their shared space, all while facing the challenges of a lack of legal recognition for their relationship.

The film beautifully explores complex characters, including:

• **Thongkam** (Jeff Satur), the resilient heart of the story, whose deep love for Sek echoes the enduring durian trees he tends.

• **Mo** (Engfa Waraha), who hides her scars beneath a tough exterior yet shows devotion to her partner Saeng.

• **Sek** (Toey Pongsakorn Mettarikanon), who embodies the struggle between desire and societal expectations, revealing both sweetness and bitterness.

• **Saeng** (Seeda Puapimon), whose hidden vulnerabilities emerge too late to save her love.

• **Jingna** (Keng Harit Buayoi), the film's moral compass, offers a wise perspective on the costs of pursuit.

"Paradise of Thorns" extends beyond LGBTQ rights, reflecting on universal themes of love and loss. Against the backdrop of Mae Hong Son, it illustrates how these emotions resonate across cultures and landscapes. Ultimately, the film conveys that in life, we often find unexpected layers to our experiences, reminding us to embrace both joy and sorrow as part of the human journey.

This movie is so incredible, the plot is very simple but the acting and the way they construct the narrative it's what gets you. I was on edge and furious through 90% of the movie, they showcase different types of injustice, helpless and pain that got me so hooked I felt completely immersed. The last few scenes are so intense and shocking I couldn't believe what my eyes were seeing.

Shout out to the actors that portrayed every emotion which such detail that makes you feel in your skin what they're feeling, the director, producers and the others involved in the screenplay, that gave so many layers to the plot and the different types of injustice different people can suffer from. This movie is one of the best I've seen in the last couple of years.

"The Paradise of Thorns" is a powerful depiction of Thai society's deep-seated issues, with a particular focus on marriage inequality. The film excels in its storytelling, blending intense drama with cultural commentary. The acting is superb, bringing the characters' struggles and emotions to life in a way that feels both genuine and compelling. Coupled with some of the best cinematography in recent Thai cinema, the film creates a visually stunning yet thought-provoking experience. It's an exceptional piece of filmmaking that resonates on multiple levels, making it the best Thai film for me. Lastly the ost is addictive, i can't stop listening to it.

The film's storyline is overwhelming. It will captivate you to the point that you won't be able to take your eyes off it. It has beautiful and meaningful cinematography. True to the art of filmmaking, not just focussing on inequality but the reality of life. The bittersweet of true love, grief, sorrow, and disappointment, as well as the joy of winning over something you believe in.

I love the way the film was edited. The buildup is intense with elements of surprise. Every scene is superbly done. There are no hiccups or whatsoever. Above all, the actors gave very powerful performances. Honestly, it is difficult to accept that this is Jeff and Engfa's first feature film. Kudos to the whole team 👍🏼

This film is highly intense with a rather heavy storyline. For a Thai viewer who understands the social and economic disparities in certain areas, it is even more moving. The performances are impressive despite having only 4-5 actors. The plot is intriguing, and the visuals are stunning. The film's lighting and sound are reminiscent of *Parasite*, but it is directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, the director of *Poor Things*. The story is not boring but constantly creates a sense of discomfort. Some scenes and dialogue are so well-written that they provoke an audible reaction. Kudos to GDH for producing a film of this nature.