At the Crossroads: Assessing ‘Shadow’ at the Midpoint
The newest Thai drama Shadow is about the sudden missing of a boy and the supernatural/horror occurrences that follows. The story takes place in 1998-99 in an all boys high school led by a Christian management. Shadow, directed by Ark Saroj Kunatanad and Tung Panich Pongpanich pulls the reader into its universe and the viewer has no reason to resist.
The unpredictability of the story fascinates the viewer. The story does not move in a direction that the viewer anticipates. We wouldn’t know whether the shadow is a villain or a friend. The writers have skillfully incorporated psychology and superstition into the script, two seemingly contradictory fields (Special applause to the writers Ark Saroj Kunatanad, Chakorn Chaiprecha, Pacharawan Chaipuwarat and Zaii Nuttamon Yimyam).
The main actors have thoroughly learned their craft and delivered phenomenal performances. Singto Prachaya Ruangroj who plays the troubled new student is an actor with many layers. His nuanced performance in Shadow was exceptional. Fluke Natouch Siripongthon is also outstanding as Nai, a regular victim of bullies. Apart from them all the supporting actors have also delivered praiseworthy performances.
The execution is nothing less than brilliant. Certain shots leaves the audience in awe especially the underwater shots. The very first scene of the drama was excellent. The use of imageries like cross, rosary, pig mask etc. were also brilliant. The theme music by LazyLoxy adds layers to the the mysterious mood of the drama.
I loved the way the art team has recreated the late 90s. It almost feels like a time travel. Vehicles, costumes and buildings succeed in giving a 90’s vibe to the audiences.
Another thing that should be mentioned is the cinematography. The cinematography is so powerful in every scene. The overall mood of the cinematography is dark themed. We can see many night scenes throughout the drama, even the indoor scenes gives out a gloomy/mysterious vibe with yellow lights used in many scenes. It gets the mood of the thriller just right. The use of window light in a particular scene in which Nai and Dan were cleaning the church was fabulous.
The Thai drama Shadow definitely stands out with its unmatched writing, impeccable execution and exceptional performances . I highly recommend all of you to watch the unravelling of this mystery thriller.
