F4 Tailândia: Meninos Antes de Flores (2021)

Modernized, efficient, layered, masterful story re-telling of a classic tale

F4 Thailand is a modernized version that seems to make the main male lead Thyme a more fully fleshed character (why is he pressured to be a bully). Fast paced (similar to the Japanese version), very efficient and masterful story-telling (makes really good use of social media technology to advance the plots--an excellent update from the previous version). Great cast, awesome visuals, good acting and high production value.

What really sets this series apart from other adaptations and shows is its use of layers and layers of story-telling. Every detail from choice of EP titles, character names & birthdays, costumes, accessories, set designs, colors all the way to floor patterns seems purposeful and symbolic in its communication. I've never seen any show like this before. There is a growing fandom experience where very intelligent, observant people do deep dives, analyze the hidden symbols, decipher astrological significance, draw parallels to myths, tropes and plot devices, and unpack the messages of the show as they relate to the contemporary issues. The depth and quality of this show is simply EXEMPLARY!

Another mind-blowing thing about the show is its very clear anti-patriarchal message. The first EP starts off establishing the status quo of a very dark patriarchal world where control, hierarchy and violence rule. As the story progresses, you will see tremendous progress in character development, change and redemption. But the first EP began with a serious tone around bullying, which I appreciate because it clearly communicates that bullying is a serious issue that shouldn't be condoned.

Each EP has its own story arc and comes to a satisfying end (the director O Patha really pays attention to the story graph of each EP). There are many hidden ways the series pays homage to the original source (manga) and previous adaptations (e.g. names of characters, shops, words on billboard, etc.). The series is clearly the top in terms of my favorite adaptations (I watched the Taiwanese, Japanese, Korean and part of Chinese versions (too lengthy for me)), and possibly my favorite show ever. It'll surely become a classic.

The series has everything! From tear-jerking drama to peak comedy, the story is packed full of entertainment value. There is no scene wasted! Everything is super tight. I'm really enjoying it. Bright Vachirawit as Thyme has been able to show different facets of character Thyme (cruel, dumb, angry, bratty, childish, cute and smitten), while Tontawan delivers a very strong FL Gorya whom I find easy to sympathize with. Her family is so lovely and provides great comedic relief. Many people have fallen for the 2nd lead Ren but I'm team Thyme (esp. after EP3). (I fell hard for the 2nd lead in the Taiwanese and Korean versions.)

The rest of the cast is also really strong. Great chemistry among all the F4 boys (the Kavin-MJ duo is especially solid). Last but not least, Cindy as Thyme's mom, Mariya as Thea (Thyme's sister) and Fah Yong as Mira (Ren's first love) are all powerful scene stealers. They all have such strong presence whenever they appear on the screen, sometimes without word. Mira's character is the best of all the adaptations - so beautifully strong, inside and out. I appreciate that the portrayal of characters in F4 Thailand is more realistic and logical (as opposed to being cartoonish or over-the-top). Later June as Hana, Lita as Thyme's fiance and Kaye as Talay were all stellar in their roles.

Oh, and the OSTs are excellent. Seven have been released so far. I really like Who Am I, esp. the lyrics and Bright's singing. Shooting Star, In the Wind, You Mean the World, One Last Cry, Nighttime, and Best Life are lovely too. It is wonderful that most of these are all sung by F4 actors themselves. One Last Cry sung by Violet Wautier is very good and emotional.

Overall, the series is the best I have seen in a long while. Certainly my favorite of all the adaptations.

Highly recommended.

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