The Believers

Hidden gem of a show. I'm suprised how this is not more known on social media in the west. This is some squid game season 1 stuff, but even better. The story, philosophy, cultural critique, personal trauma, love, morality, power dynamics... all woven in so naturally. And none of it felt forced. It's one of those shows where the more you think about it afterward, the more you realize how layered it really was. It's very clear that the creators weren't just trying to make a "cool show" We need more viewers and more global recognition of this masterpiece, I was biting my nails throught the last episodes, acting, filming in the last episodes got very got, story is a masterpiece and is a genius storyline. I cannot wait for the second season.

Besides the brilliant production quality of this show, it is a must watch for anyone curious about Thai culture and modern thai society. The show cleverly and subtly addresses many of the most important questions and debates in modern Thailand:

• The clash in the belief systems between the old generation and the new. Especially regarding the superstition/blind faith of the older generation vs the pragmatism of the younger.

• the role of Buddhism in Thai society; how many young thai see the Sangha as corrupt and conservative.

• the widespread belief (fact?) that the elite and politicians are above the law, and pulling the strings and are deeply corrupt, and the normal people suffer for this.

When viewed within this context the arc of the show makes total sense. The message at the end is simply a common commentary on Thai society in this day and age: That normal and smart young people cannot prosper in a Thailand where corrupt politicians and business people game the system and dominate it, and that Buddhism, though venerated and a positive thing, is manipulated and spread by those in power in order to pacify the masses.

This series nicely explores the intersection of religion, power, and profit. It delves into the murky waters of modern organized religion, where faith and cash collide. In fact, it seemed cash matters more than the religion itself at this point.

The concept is interesting, with strong performances by the lead cast, however some portrayal of the supposed 'ruthless businessman' might seem cringy at times. The evil shark loan personality and dialogues are somewhat comically evil. Yet, overall, it's still a great show. The series constantly introduces new arc and keeps you hooked throughout. For sure, A gem among Thai series on Netflix.

I personally admire the idea and key message of the series. Religion and Thai cultures are indeed rooted in people believing.

I also have questions about the underneath business among the religion, politics, and police system. The series also combine the cryptocurrency in the plot which I think this is very up-to-date plot. It also shows us there's always two sides of same coin. The series encourage people to ask some questions about their beliefs. It's so fascinating to see a good Thai series I haven't seen a while.

Amazing plots which you'll not regret watching it. I can't wait to see the next season.

There were 3 reasons I really enjoyed this: 1. The show knew the story it wanted to tell and didn't drag or go all over the place, it immediately grabbed my attention and had me invested in what was going to happen next. I planned to watch an episode a day and that definitely ended up being the entire show in two days. I also can't recall feeling like the plot was being rushed or dragged at any point.

2. The show was well shot and didn't have so many awkward angles like a lot of Thai shows I've seen.

And 3. The characters were pretty well acted and believable, I didn't find any of them to be irritating or just over the top caricatures, they all seemed like real people with real problems and understandable reactions to their situations.

This was a fun watch and I can definitely see myself rewatching it.