As I am writing a review for Mam Gam Dang, I got to thinking about the importance of the beginning, middle and ending of lakorns.

You see, Mam Gam Dang had a great beginning, it was engaging and you easily fall in love with the leading characters. Towards the middle of the drama, things remained stagnant but at least the feelings between the two characters made progress and we get an inkling that things will be alright in the end. Until, well, the ending, where everything fell apart and the sequences just didn’t make sense.

Which really threw me off and got me thinking about what is important to me: can I forgive a lakorn that starts great but ends badly? Or is a lakorn fantastic with a bad beginning but a startlingly good ending? How should the middle take part in all of this?

Ultimately it is up to the viewers and writer/director. But I decided to come up with some criteria on what I deem a great lakorn.

The beginning should be engaging to the point where it hooks me and makes me want to continue.

The middle should have an obvious character development or plot developments that will keep me entertained and not drop the drama halfway.

The ending is almost as important as the beginning and middle. I like my dramas to be wrapped up nicely in a bow, lose strings tied- and not to mention, an ending that makes sense!

Also most importantly, the drama should leave me feeling like I got something from the story, whether that is appreciation for the suspense, characters, storyline and/or conflicts.

After further consideration, I felt that Mam Gam Dang is a good lakorn that left me wanting more. I have a contention with the writer/director for the rushed ending that came out of the left field. But all in all, the lakorn did leave a solid impression on the characters, which is attributed to the great acting abilities of both Matt and Chakrit. I hate to see a drama that is so full of potential but becomes lackluster because of an unpolished ending. But I didn’t hate the ending, and that alone cannot be said for a lot of lakorns!

An example of what I think a mediocre lakorn is Rak Patiharn: the lakorn started out teasing us of a wonderful storyline, one that is more character base than plot base (which is alright with me), a story about a young girl who has returned to her motherland to find her remaining family members but realized that they didn’t want anything to do with her. The lonely and internal strength could have been captured, but unfortunately fell by the wayside by the leading female’s constant lies about her identity. The relationship between the leading characters started out on the wrong footing but over time developed into fondness. And of course, they waited until the very last episode to reveal her true identity which ends up hurting everyone in the end.

Poor? Typically the ones that I lack enthusiasm to complete the series are what I deem poor.. maybe because the characters weren’t appealing to me, maybe the plot sucks, maybe the middle dragged too much and maybe the whole cast is lackluster, but for whatever reasons, they were not up to par.

So in your opinion, what is more important, the beginning, middle or ending of a lakorn? And based on that, what keeps you pursuing the lakorn and how do you decide whether it is good or not?

Categories: Lakorn Reactions

“A Sad Turn of Events”- Ep 6 Recap of This Land Is Our Land

lovefia

Posted on July 9, 2012

Our lakorn takes on a somber tone, where Athit must decide what he will do with his future.

In episode 6, Athit is still sick from the banana farm debacle and didn’t have the opportunity to confide in his grandma, the transgressions he thought he may have committed.

As he lay in bed, his three farm workers, whom he thought were loyal to him and loved him, came crawling into his room. With his eyes still shut, he listened to their tormented concessions, apologizing profusely for betraying him. They could have told him, they wanted to tell him, and now they want to die for deceiving him.

Athit opened his eyes irritatingly and look at the three sad faces. He sat up and told them the misfortune part about it all was that he had just written a letter to his family telling them how much he loved being at the farm. That he enjoyed working with a group of people who respected him and trusted him. He didn’t name any names, but he was referring to the three guys. At this point, all three really wanted to die. They begged him to just kill them because they wouldn’t be able to take it if they were dead in his eyes.

Athit soon realized that Darunee had devised this plan, he recalled her curt words the other morning and never imagined that she would hate him to this extent. She wanted to humiliate him, then good for her, because she succeeded. Athit also hypothesized that she hated him since the first time she laid eyes on him.

But Athit didn’t realize that Darunee is slowly turning over a new leaf. She feels sick to her stomach that she is the root of his problem- she, herself, doesn’t notice that she is doing sweet things to try to make it up to him: laundry, mending his shirt, cooking for him.

Grandma is happy that she had the talk with Athit and Darunee. Deep down she can only hope that her prayers are answered (I personally think she’s hoping that they would fall in love- because that’s what I’m hoping too!)

Much to her chagrin however, she learned that Athit was accused of raping Thongprasiri. Thongprasiri and parents came to her farm and wanted justice. Shocked, grandma bide time to talk to Athit first. But she could see that her dreams are falling by the wayside as she recalled a previous conversation with Athit- he had wanted to tell her about something he did wrong. She gave him the benefit of the doubt and listened.

Darunee had learned of this as well and eavesdrop by Athit’s cabin. She listened attentively to the conversation.

Athit confided that he was very drunk that night. He was wrong to be drunk. He had promised his mother that he would not lose his conscience and the first time he got drunk, this had to happen to him. He took full responsibility of losing his conscience. However, he too was not certain that he had even “slept” with Thongprasiri. He doesn’t remember. After only meeting her once, does he have to take responsibility? Athit admitted that he would take full responsibility if he really did those things, but since he wasn’t certain, he needed to ask her a few questions. It was decided that he would ask those questions should they reappear for an answer.

He excused himself to complete his farming tasks and as he leaves, they both noticed Darunee standing by the cabin.

Guilty and sad, she looked at Athit.

As he walked away, Darunee walked to her grandma and feels remorseful for what she had done. Grandma told her that Athit didn’t blame anyone but himself. Darunee lamented that that is the reason why she feels even more remorsed and responsible.

Athit realized that his vegetable garden is dried up. Ever since the incident at the banana farm, he too had neglected it. Angry at himself, he foregoed eating and worked hard in reviving the vegetables. Uncle Kreang noticed this and yelled at Athit’s three cohorts and the manager (Toon) that they could have reminded the other farm workers to water the plants. Darunee overheard this and felt bad for Athit again. She brought food over to him to make sure he eats and doesn’t get even sicker.

Her method of encouraging him to eat is to make him guilty. She said that if he doesn’t eat, grandma would be concerned- if he doesn’t take his medicine, then grandma would have to call on the doctor again. Athit looked forlornly at her and said that he must be so much trouble to everyone. While he ate lunch, Darunee snuck over to his house and cleaned it: dusting the table, making his bed and sweeping the floor. She even went to the extent of assembling his medicine and writing a note for him to take it.

As Athit made his way back to his house, sweaty and sick with fever, he reads the note that Darunee wrote: drink water, take medicine, and finish the water! He followed the order and crawled into bed. Darunee watched from afar and came in closer to feel his forehead. Noticing that his temperature is high, she towel washed him and changed his clothes.

Meanwhile back at the farm, news spread that Athit has a wife and that is Thongprasiri. The three stooges were flabbergasted and denied the news. But they decided to see to Athit. As they made their way to his cabin, they noticed someone in his bedroom. Assuming that Thongprasiri was there to rape their master, they all went in to find out. Much to their surprise, it was Darunee who was under the cover!

She embarrassingly said that she was here just to wash his clothes and walked away quickly.

Thongprasiri and family (with a police offer in tow) came to obtain the answer from grandma. They were belligerent, loud and very rude demanding that justice be made. Athit’s uncle was also there (with his family) and demand that they all talk in peace. Thongprasiri kept accusing Athit of raping her and said that he must take her as his wife.

Athit entered the scene with his brood (the three stooges) and demanded that before he takes her as his wife, he needed to ask a few questions. First he wanted to know how the “rape” scene was played out. Thongprasiri said that he was very drunk, he came to her room and forced himself on her and covered her mouth with his hands so she wasn’t able to scream and shout for help. Athit asked whatever happened to her two sisters and parents? The story sounded fishy to everyone’s ears. She claimed that he had her hands on her mouth so she couldn’t make a sound- Viyada jumped to his defense and said that she didn’t scream for help because she wanted Athit to rape her! Athit then asked who took his pants off. He utilized a secure pin to keep his pants in place and it takes effort to remove it. She kept saying that he was the one to take it off. Even the three stooges came to his defense and said that it took them more than 10 minutes to take it off. At any rate, whoever took off his pants, the father claimed that his daughter was taken advantaged of and he needed to take responsibility.

Grandma asked Athit what he wanted to do. Athit asked for a few days to think about this and will send an answer to them.

The belligerent family left and Athit and his family congregated in the living room. Athit learned that there are a few ways to solve this problem; the long way is to fight it in court. As Athit left to think this through, Vilai (his uncle’s wife) wanted a word with him. She laid out the consequences of fighting the case in court to him. Both his father and uncle will reap the consequences as well, they will be embarrassed, ashamed not to mention black marked at their work. Not only that, if he chose to fight this, it will take time and eventually will ruin their family’s reputation. There is a lot on the line and Vilai wanted to make sure Athit will think it through carefully. Athit admitted that he knows and is aware of the consequences. He did not harm the lady because he loves his mother very much and would not harm a woman. Vilai conceded that he might not have done it and no one is saying that he did, but there are serious consequences should he decide to fight Thongprasiri in court.

With the heavy load on his mind, Athit sits by the waterfall to clear his head.

Meanwhile, Darunee was helping Aunt Kaew make banana dessert. Upon which Aunt Kaew and Uncle Kreang were chatting about how uncomfortable it is to serve Athit this dessert after what had happened with the banana farm. Darunee felt ashamed again and decided to deliver the dessert to Athit. When she got to his house, the three stooges were making lunch. Just as she was about to leave, Athit walked in and learned that Darunee was the one who washed him and cleaned his house. He thanked her but she walked away, embarrassed and not sure how to handle the gratitude. The guys teased him about Darunee, that she would be the perfect match for him.

Athit however, said that they were like the sun and the moon, they take their turns ruling the day and night, but could never be together.

The tone continued to turn very sad as Darunee, Aunt Kaew and grandma sit in the living room, taking deep breaths. They were all concerned about what Athit will decide with his future. Will he make Thonprasiri his wife or fight her in court? Whatever Athit decides, Darunee told grandma that she could still work with him in taking care of the farm. Aunt Kaew was afraid that Thongprasiri would be too jealous and not make the relationship work. But Darunee, like Athit, compared them to the sun and the moon, that they can never be.

That night Athit thought about his options. Darunee prayed in bed that he would make the right decision; otherwise, she too will regret it and feel responsible for the rest of her life.

As Athit bowed to grandma the next morning, everyone held their breaths as he told them what he has decided. He didn’t want to ruin grandma’s reputation; he didn’t want this to draw out longer than it has; he didn’t want this to waste his time, his mind and his energy no more; he wanted it to be over. So, Athit has decided that he will take responsibility for Thongprasiri. Grandma, Darunee and Aunt Kaew all drew in their breath with shock, but could not do anything about it.

Later that day, Athit was at the vegetable garden, the three stooges teased him about Darunee, saying that if they were the sun and the moon, they would probably sneak around to see each other. Annoyed, he sprayed the water on them. Darunee had come to get Athit because the Thonprasiris’ were here to receive their answers.

As they walk back to the house, Darunee asked him if he had thought about it carefully. Athit told her that he didn’t want to waste any more time, than he already has. Darunee was convinced that if he would take a little more time to think it through, no one would fault him. She indicated that having a family is a very important decision in life.. But she was very animated in her talk that she walked right into his back. He turned around in time to catch her before she falls. They looked into each other’s eyes.

Athit replid that it was not important to him, “The most important thing to me right now is to prove myself again to everyone, but if this upsets you, I apologize (in advance.)”

“What is that supposed to mean?” Darunee asked.

“I may have fallen, but I will get up and fight.”

She looked guiltily at him.

“Thank you very much,” he said, “for making me stronger amidst the hardships in life.” He takes a step further and continues, “And thank you, for helping me memorize what a wild banana look like.”

Ouch.

Darunee watched him walk away with self-loathing.

The meeting was called for Thongprasiri and her family. They had requested a large dowry but Athit said that he didn’t have any money. He’s working on the farm for free because grandma is sending his sisters to school. The family wanted to marriage so badly they said it was ok with no dowry then but they must pay for the wedding. Athit again said that he doesn’t have any money but grandma will pay a small fee for the wedding. Also, he would not sign the marriage agreement because he has already signed another agreement back at home (what?!) Everyone looked at him all shocked (me too!) So Thongprasiri agreed to be his mistress..

After the negotiation, grandma goes into her bedroom and asked to be alone. She sits on her bed as disappointment (about her dreams) plays on her face.

I can only think to myself, poor Athit.

Episode 6 offered a mixture of both sad and gloomy outlook on the reality of our leading man but slightly uplifting in a way because it will hopefully end the dispute between Athit and Darunee, as well as giving Darunee (our trouble maker) a little dose of accountability- because after all- she is the root of his problem.

And finally, you just want to cry on Athit’s behalf with the injustice of it all. I’m going to sulk in my misery now!

*Pictures credit to BarryYa FB.

Categories: Lakorn Recaps

Tagged: Nadech Kugimiya, Torranee Nee Nee Krai Krong, Yaya Urassaya

“Actions Have Consequences”- Ep 5 Recap of This Land Is Our Land

lovefia

Posted on July 8, 2012

Athit was really excited that grandma gave him a plot of land so he could grow a banana farm. Each stroke of the picks and sledgehammers moved him closer to building security for his family. Grandma was also going to give him the earnings he would make from selling these bananas. Things were going great for him; he has earned respect from the farm workers and grandma, minus one person.

Little did he know that one particular person was plotting his demise. Darunee, knew that the bananas he received were wild bananas- inedible- but she has decided to sit back and watch Athit fail. In her opinion, it would give him a piece of the humble pie.

In episode 5, both learned a valuable lesson, actions do have consequences.

To start with, Darunee knew grandma was going to see Athit plant the banana roots that morning so she schemed grandma to go into town with her and help her look at her finances. As grandma changes her clothes, Athit came by the house to see if grandma was ready.

Darunee however, reprimanded him for trying to exhaust grandma, implying that he could not do it on his own. Athit said that he was merely there to tell grandma that he was planting the bananas that morning and grandma had wanted to go there to encourage him. He also added that no grandchild would want his grandma to be tormented.

Darunee couldn’t help herself and added that before he thinks about doing anything, he should be wary that just because he could plant vegetables, that doesn’t mean he could plant everything.

“I think it is better to try something,” he started, “then to stand there and just watch and talk.”

“But standing there and just talk doesn’t hurt anyone,” she defended.

He answered, “I would rather get hurt because at least I will have gained the experience in life. It is better than some people who everyday just exercise their mouth and not their head.” Lol.

Offended Darunee pointed her finger at him, “Are you referring that to me?”

“I’m referring it to people who are judgmental. Because I am sure that I am here to work honestly. If you’re not that type of a person, then don’t be troubled.”

Ouch.

“Well I’m not going to be troubled- the only person who will be troubled is you- remember that!” she retorted.

“What are you referring to?” He asked.

She looked away then replied pointedly, “I wish you good luck with your endeavor.”

Athit confused, walked away.

Once he got back to the farm, the three workers (more like three stooges) stopped by to deliver food and see if he needed any help. Athit was adamant that he could do it all himself. They asked him where he bought his banana roots. He told them that he didn’t actually buy them; he received them from the nearby banana farm. The three stooges were flabbergasted as they realized that he had received wild bananas instead and were going to tell him, however the manager stepped in. He pulled the three workers aside and told them that they would be making themselves enemies of Darunee if they told Athit the truth. Threatened, the three remained quiet.

Soon after however, the secret could not be contained. Many farm workers stopped by to see the progress of the banana farm when they noticed that he was planting wild bananas instead. They erupted with laughter and Jingjaew immediately told her mom, Aunt Kaew, whom told grandma that the workers were causing a ruckus.

Everyone surrounded Athit, laughing. Grandma came in time and was furious on his behalf. Looking at each faces, she questioned them, “Are you having a good time?! Does my grandson look like a joke to you? Why isn’t there a person who has the heart to tell him that these are wild bananas? How can you allow him to plant so many acres already? What are your hearts made of?”

Everyone looked at the ground, Darunee became tearful. Grandma turned to look at Athit, who dropped the pick and walked slowly to her. “I’m sorry..” he uttered then he looked away and ran off.

It was an emotional scene and grandma was spot on.

Grandma wanted to get to the bottom of this. She asked the manager what had happened and the manager told on Darunee. Looking shocked, Darunee kept quiet. Grandma however scolded the manager (saving the scold for Darunee later) that he didn’t have the mind to think of what is appropriate and what is not. As a punishment, the manager was to remove the wild bananas and plant the sweet ones instead, and he was to do it himself.

Devastation and hurt could not begin to describe how Athit felt. What he feared came to reality, that he was the laughingstock of the farm, that he failed in proving them wrong. As he raced through the farm, images of laughing faces flashed through his mind, Darunee being the last one he remembered before he ran to town.

At the house, Darunee approached grandma and apologized, “I just wanted you to see that Athit was no more special than anyone else, he’s just someone who can make mistakes too.”

“You have selected a time to tell me, why must you select a time to destroy someone’s attempt and hard work? Did you see how long he has spent planting the bananas? He has wasted precious time. The body strength that was wasted can be regained, but the internal strength that was wasted cannot or may not come back!”

Darunee said between tears, “I didn’t intend to destroy his internal strength or motivation.”

“Well think about it, if you were in his shoes, wouldn’t you be hurt too? Then all of a sudden everyone is laughing at your attempt and hard work. How can a person know everything? I am this old and I don’t know the intricacies. And Athit is only older than you by 3 years, how do you expect him to know everything? He has never seen certain trees or plants- he doesn’t know- is that wrong?” Grandma asked.

“I didn’t say he was wrong..” Darunee muttered.

Grandma stepped closer to her, “And was it worth it- your hilarity in Athit’s expense?”

Darunee said that she knows that she’s wrong and that she’s sorry.

“It’s not me whom you have to apologize to, it’s Athit, got it?”

Darunee nodded her head slowly.

Unfortunately for Athit, things only got worst from here- funny, but worst. He will soon see that his own actions (or lack thereof) will have its consequences.

Upset and disheartened, Athit found a makeshift bar (it’s what I like to call it..) and decided to get drunk. It happened to be Thongprasri’s family joint and she just discovered that she is pregnant-with the jerk who left her. Prior to meeting the jerk, she had set her caps on Athit before meeting him. Now that she has seen him face to face, she has decided that he will be her baby’s daddy.

She kicked the rest of the clients out of the restaurant, deeming that they were closing, and persuaded her sisters to help her take Athit to her bedroom- where they took pictures of the two in bed. Athit did not make it easy however and funny scenes of their attempt to take off his clothes ensued. In the end, Thonprasri gave up trying to take his pants off and let him sleep like that.

Meanwhile the whole farm went looking for him, unsuccessful as it might be.

Several hours later, Thongprasiri’s mom caught her in bed with Athit but became excited when she learned that Athit is grandma’s grandson. You could see dollar signs flashing in hir eyes!

Upon waking up, Athit was disoriented and confused. He just learned that he had “raped” Thonprasri in his drunken stupor. To get his head straight, he told them he needed to go home and that a real man would not run away from his responsibilities.

As he stumbled through the trees, making his way back to his cabin, he could feel his dreams slipping through his fingers. Devastated from yesterday’s debacle and now this- can a man take on more bad news? Worst of all, he felt that he has shamed and disappointed his parents and family. Athit fell asleep in the midst of the orange trees.

Grandma and Darunee caught wind of the news that Athit is back and they went to see him. Since he spent the night outdoors, Athit caught a cold and grandma immediately put everyone to work in helping him get better.

Athit dreamed of the lessons that his mother imparted in him- that he needed to be a good role model and to stay away from alcohol. Should he find himself drinking it, that he would drink it with a conscience. He regretted being drunk and apologized to his mom in his sleep.

Meanwhile, Athit’s uncle heard from one of the cops that Athit made someone his wife! The man was also at Thonprasri’s restaurant and witnessed that Athit was very drunk. They’re keeping it under wraps for now. Viyada didn’t think that Athit was the type to do that but the rest of her family believed it.

When Athit woke up, he saw grandma beside him. He apologized to her again. Grandma assigned Darunee to cook, feed and clean him. The feeding scene was really cute, I know we’ve seen snippets of it during the behind the screen shots, but watching it play out was even better. We see Darunee annoyed that she had to do everything for him, lifting him, feeding him and cleaning him. Athit looked alert yet uncomfortable under her ministrations, but he cannot stop looking at her. When he was alone with grandma, he wanted to tell her of what had happened the night before. But he could not as Darunee walked in with his lunch.

When he felt better, Athit took a breather outside. A really cute, amending scene occurred. Grandma sat the two down and had a heart to heart conversation. She told them that they were the two that she loved very much. “Even though you both are my grandchildren, I love you like my children. You both are the last of my hopes, so you must work with each other to watch over the land when I am no longer with you.”

Darunee pleaded for her to stop, “please don’t talk like that.”

“I’m being realistic, Nee, I also want you both to accept the reality that people are born, they get hurt and they die,” she turned to Athit, “I know that you are here for not too long, but your father never wanted anything from me, aside from stealing my money long ago. My other kids have received so much from me. Athit, you will receive the plot of land that your father should have gotten. As for you Nee, I’ve raised you and loved you like my own child, I have decided that whomever I die with will receive my inheritance. My inheritance is not money, but land. If you care for it well, you can feed your children for eternity. Only you both can carry out my responsibilities.”

She placed their hands together. “Can you help each other? I beg you. Especially Darunee, don’t be envious of what I give to Athit. What you will receive is enough to feed you for the rest of your life.”

Darunee defended herself, “I’m not jealous. I just feared that you will love Athit more than me.”

Grandma laughed.

Athit told grandma to love him less than Darunee, “love her 99% of it and just love me for the 1%.”

“Just don’t take back your words then,”Darunee chided.

Grandma didn’t forget about Darunee’s actions earlier. She told Darunee to apologize to Athit about the banana fiasco. Darunee did it half-assed but got scolded. Then Grandma wanted Darunee to call Athit, P’Athit- to showcase that he’s older with respect.

Athit told grandma not to force Darunee. “If I can prove to Darunee that she can call me P, then she will do so on her own.”

Happy, Darunee hugged her grandma with a smile. What a cute brat.

It was a very cute scene but only makes you wary of what is to come. What about Athit’s uncalled for consequences of something he didn’t even do? It’s just not fair..

Stay tuned!

*Images credit to BarryYa FB

Categories: Lakorn Recaps

Tagged: Nadech Kugimiya, Torranee Nee Nee Krai Krong, Yaya Urassaya

Oh Darunee, what are we going to do with you?- Ep 4 Recap of This Land is Our Land

lovefia

Posted on July 6, 2012

Your jealousy and shenanigans are starting to wear on me, no matter how cute you look while doing it. Like grandma, I too wonder when you and Athit will stop fighting. Will it go on much longer?

In episode 4 of Torranee Ni Nee Krai Krong, we learn more about Athit’s character and his determination to prove everyone wrong, especially the likes of Darunee, who wish to see him fail. Much to my hope that he will succeed this time around, the set up and the mood of the story is shifting, and something impending is about to happen.

In the onset of this episode, we are brought back to Athit trying to dry Darunee’s hair after their water fight earlier. She wanted to prove to him that she was not a “child” and stood still while he assesses her face. As he leans in however, she panics and pushes him away, misunderstanding his intentions. He was merely trying to remove a bug from her hair and he asked her what she thought he was going to do? Lol. And he called her a “child” again. That got her defensive and she balked that she didn’t like being called a child.

This gave Athit an opportunity to teach her a thing or two about manners and what one does to be considered an “adult.” Funny how a “true” adult needed to be reminded of her manners, which really goes to show that she still has a lot of growing up to do? She told Athit to not do anything for her that will require gratitude.

Once they got back to the house, she told grandma on him, that she was all dirty because of Athit. Grandma asked if she just stood there and did nothing? Lol. Seeing the way that Athit was dirty too, if she were to punish anyone, they both would be punished. Next, Darunee didn’t want to share the same bathroom as him so he had to shower by the kitchen. She also got angry when Aunt Kaew decided to offer him the soap that she made. She’s possessive about minor things too!

Once dried, grandma gave the shirt that she made for her husband to Athit. She told him that his grandfather cherished it and would not wear it for fear of damaging it. Grandma thought he should be the one to wear it. Overhearing this, Darunee said that she wanted a shirt too! To appease her, grandma gave Darunee her own shirt. At the farm, the workers teased the two reminded them of grandma and grandpa back in the day. Upset, Darunee told Athit to go and change his clothes. Athit replied that if she couldn’t stand the teasing, then she should change, lol. Clearly Athit will not give her an inch. Maybe that is why she is so irked by him?

During lunch time, Athit hid away to read a letter from his family. It was very touching when he placed the letter against his chest, so grateful for his family’s thoughtfulness and love. Darunee accused him of sneaking and reading a letter from his girlfriend. She thinks that when one has a girlfriend/boyfriend, one is distracted and cannot focus. Grandma told her that he was only reading a letter from his father.

After lunch, Athit asked his grandma to do the honor and plant his first vegetable; it will provide him good luck and blessings. In the garden, Grandma gave him well wishes and a token of wisdom that he if conduct himself like a plant or a root and be mindful of the earth in which he lives in, no matter what obstacles he faced, he will overcome it. Darunee watched the workers and grandma plant the vegetables and could not help but smile. She wanted to do it too. When she noticed that the workers are doing it all wrong (in her eyes) it was time to step in and show them how it’s done. Grandma and Athit watched with humor as she showed the workers how to plant the vegetables. She just couldn’t help herself could she, despite hating to help Athit with anything?

That night, Darunee became irritated that Athit was playing the instrument while she was trying to study for her entrance exam. Shaking her head, Grandma voiced her concerns out loud to Aunt Kaew. Can they be good together? They were the only ones she can rely on.. Aunt Kaew advised that if anyone could convince Darunee of his worth, it would be Athit. He had many sisters and Aunt Kaew was sure he could find a way to change Darunee’s mind. Well, at least one of us is sure!

Grandma approached Darunee that night and made her aware of grandma’s love for her. That even if she does not pass the entrance exam, grandma would not be upset. As long as Darunee tried with all of her heart, grandma will always be happy with the outcome. Grandma says that education is acquired not only through a classroom, but through hands on experience and learning in the field as well. Darunee said that she will do her best, for grandma. You can see that the cast chemistry is amazing, and that Darunee is not just a petulant child, she really does want to be the best in grandma’s eyes.

Athit penned a response to his parents. He was happy that he is now following his dreams to be a full fledge farmer.

The next day, Vilai and her brood came to pester grandma again. This time she wanted to see if she could borrow any of grandma’s jewelry for a social event that night. Unfortunately, grandma did not invest in collecting jewelry but she did have a box of her treasures. Vilai and the brood perked up at the thought and wanted to see her treasure chest. It turns out that the chests were filled with agricultural books! Hey, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure…

As Athit rode by a farm, he noticed banana trees, which inspired him for his next endeavor. Grandma had wanted to discuss with him regarding some land she had that wasn’t being used. He told her that he was interested in utilizing the land to “plant.” Everyone thought that he intended to plant more vegetables and thought he may be spreading himself too thin (time wise.) How was he able to care for the orange, vegetable and now a new land of plants? It turns out that he wanted to plant a banana farm instead. He felt that bananas have many uses and they were easy to care for. Grandma approves!

Later that day, Darunee fumed in her room, frustrated that he was getting grandma’s approvals. Aunt Kaew stopped by and tried to console her. Darunee said that she wasn’t just being a selfish, unreasonable person (ahem) but (in her defense) he hasn’t done anything that is successful yet and already grandma was so proud of him. If he was actually successful, wouldn’t she lose completely then? Good point. Aunt Kaew turned the tables on her and told her that she had plenty of time to prove herself to grandma. But the best and most immediate way is to pass her entrance exam. Once she has done that, it wouldn’t be too late to come back and fight Athit for grandma’s affections. This fueled Darunee to be happier and determined to pass the entrance examinations.

While she was studying, she heard the instruments playing again and frustrated, she stomped her way to Athit’s home- prepared to give him a piece of her mind. Before she approached him however, she overheard the workers talking to him. They said that he was well suited for Darunee! Flabbergasted, Darunee listened. Athit replied to the workers that for one, she hates him and has never said a nice word to him. Secondly, he does not like females who are childish (lol) and he doesn’t like to waste time consoling a sulky person. Darunee’s mouth hung open as the words hit her. Not sure if she was angry that he was calling her a child (again) or because he didn’t admit his love for her!

The next morning, Darunee had to get Athit because grandma had sent her. Hostile about having to get him all the time, she finds him on the tractor. Athit couldn’t help but tease her that she came to get him because she misses him. Appalled, Darunee climbs the tractor and starts hitting him, whereby she stumbles and falls from the tractor. Scraping her knees and hurting herself, Darunee struggles to get up and refuses Athit’s help. After falling for the second time, eventually she relents that Athit can give her a piggy back ride. They are always so cute together. Athit then gave her a ride on the bike while she screamed at him the entire way.. the workers watched on with shock, they weren’t sure if they were flirting with love or about to kill each other.

Athit helped Darunee care for her scrapes, but the more he tries, the more pain he incurs and she torments him back.

Meanwhile a progress with Thonprasri’s story: the man that she was screwing around with turns out to be using her. He jilted her at the alter and she finally realized that he was using her. She did not admit this to any of her family members. So now, we see a start of a new problem.

Also, the bananas that Athit was planning on growing turns out to be bananas that could not be eaten. The manager knew this and tells Darunee, knowing that Darunee wanted to see Athit failed and will not report to grandma. Darunee admitted that she will surely tell, but not right now. She wanted to see an arrogant person like Athit learn a lesson. Unfortunately, this is a very mean spirited and evil endeavor on Darunee’s part, which I’m sure, will in turn teach her a lesson too. I can see Darunee as being a bully and mean but to be so completely wasteful and mean spirited? No, didn’t see that coming. But a grand lesson requires a grand mistake, I suppose.

Why could this mistake hurt Athit? Because the worst thing in the world is to be insulted and then, for the insults to turn out true. He was adamant that he could prove her wrong. And if he couldn’t? Pain and shame will inevitably follow.

I’m so afraid for what’s coming. He’s such a good guy, does he really deserve this? I will be watching Ep 5 and 6 with anxiety.

Oh, what to do with Darunee.

Categories: Lakorn Recaps

Tagged: Nadech Kugimiya, Torranee Nee Nee Krai Krong, Yaya Urassaya

Game Rai Game Rak- A Review

lovefia

Posted on July 3, 2012

Evil Game Love Game, a title that speared imagination of overly dramatic account of love and revenge, actually invoked the opposite reaction in me, which is laugh out loud funny, touching and a fever for the main leads that can’t seem to be put out.

The drama starts with a startlingly beautiful tale of how an islander (Nadech Kugimiya) meets a stranger (Yaya Urassaya) that was casted from the sea. He took her under his wing and cared for her as she lost her memory and reverts to childlike behavior. Through his care and attention from the villagers, the stranger is brought back to mental working order and she falls in love with her savior. The two then marry and all hell breaks loose.

The viewers are then taken on a dark turn in the story when Nangfah’s family, which is made up of her sister Chompooprae (Mint Natvara), contrived to bring her sister back to Bangkok by any means necessary as she was led to believe that Nangfah was abused on the island. The breakup scene tops the most tragic, heart wrenching separation in lakorn history. Knowing that the two are newlyweds and planned to start their lives together, and then to witness Nangfah getting literally torn away from Saichon, was heartbreaking to say the least.

Categories: Lakorn Reviews

Tagged: Game Rai Game Rak, Nadech Kugimiya, Yaya Urassaya

A Whole Lotta Love- First Impressions on This Land is Our Land (Week 1)

lovefia

Posted on July 1, 2012

They say that cooking good food requires love. I believe that can be applied to everything one does in life; give it love and it shall grow. It’s how I feel about Torranee Ni Nee Krai Krong- it has been given so much love and as a result, it is a great story.

I shall not add “so far” to my last sentence, because I have faith that the director shall see it through.

From episode one, we are introduced to the characters, the setting, and the tone of the drama so gradually for it to be genuine and believable. It feels like we are living on the farm with them and are part of their close-knit, funny community. The story takes its time showing us the shape and form of the characters, makes us feel invested in them.

I could watch Nadech and Yaya on screen everyday, they are that cute together. They play off each other’s expressions so well; maybe it’s due in part to their familiarity with each other. The farm workers are a hoot and I enjoy watching them interact with Arthit. The only questionable part about the drama so far is the side story with the girl at the shop. I don’t know how that has to do with our main couple yet, but I’m sure we will find out.

The amount of screen time between Arthit and Darunee is much appreciated. She’s still trying to sabotage him, but fails every time. I wonder when or if she will succeed? Despite it all, she’s seeing the good nature in Arthit and can’t help but bob her head to the music he plays, smile at him when they are in on the same joke, and internally defend the farmer in him on his behalf. She’s still stubborn but she’s doing all of this so she could remain as the top grandchild in grandmother’s eyes and doesn’t want to share the limelight.

There’s so much to love about Arthit’s character. He truly is the epitome of a good guy. You want to cheer him on. Whereas Darunee, who is a brat- but a very cute one at that- I get what she’s trying to do and can’t really fault her.

You may not get a drama filled with plots of revenge, rape or any of the typical themes you’d see in a lakorn, but I’m ok with that. I don’t (always) need it. Just give me a drama developed with a lotta love and I shall be enamored. Such is the case with Torranee Ni Nee Krai Krong.

Categories: Lakorn Reactions

Tagged: Nadech Kugimiya, Torranee Nee Nee Krai Krong, Yaya Urassaya

“I’m not a child!” -Ep 3 Recap of This Land is Our Land

lovefia

Posted on July 1, 2012

Continuing from the end of episode two, Darunee discovered that a few screws, if gone missing, would sabotage any endeavor Arthit had in fixing the tractor truck, so she pocketed the entire set and stood by mischievously to watch him attempt to start the truck in front of everyone.

Although the truck sputtered and coughed a few times, it eventually roared to life causing everyone to cheer except for those who wanted to see him fail: Darunee, Vet and his mom.

Darunee was furious but confused that her attempt did not work. She soon found out why. While everyone watched Arthit use the tractor on the farm, she idly walked away. The three farm workers noticed her holding on to a bag of screws and one of them (who is closer to Arthit) assumed that she had stolen them, thinking that they were the screws for the tractor truck. Not realizing that it was very close to the truth! They were actually bike screws. Embarrassed, Darunee walked away.

Grandma’s relative (Arthit’s aunt in law) felt threatened. She had hoped to hook her son up with Darunee because she was grandma’s beloved person and will be the one with the most inheritance. Now that Arthit is in the picture, she feared that with their close proximity, love would inevitably follow. (She’s totally on to something.) But her kids and husband denied it. Wiyada, who is Arthit’s first cousin, wanted to hook herself up with him (lol) but her father reminded her that she’s his cousin. (In this day and age one should NOT keep things in the family!) The mom however, is still going to pursue pairing her son with Darunee since no one really knows whether Darunee is actually related to grandma! (Apparently for the mom, that is reason enough to move forward.)

Meanwhile back at grandma’s home, she had given Arthit the green light to develop his own dreams. She allowed the investment (workers and supplies) to grow his organic farm.

In the newly developed greenhouse, Arthit and his workers are hard at work. But the manager said he had other business to attend to and excused himself. The rest of the workers chuckled and followed him, apparently knowing what he was up to. Arthit however, was confused about this “show” everyone was going to watch but was dragged to go “watch it.” Naïve and innocent, when he was hoisted to peer through a window, he was innocent no more. I’m sure he always knew what went on between a man and a woman behind closed door, but he sure saw an eye full!

Arthit reprimanded the workers to not partake in other’s personal businesses; especially during working hours, otherwise he would have grandma penalize their paychecks. The workers told him that the manager and his wife advertised for people to witness their “endeavors.” Then Arthit wondered who was actually the perverted culprit after all. LOL.

The workers also persisted that because they weren’t as handsome as him, they couldn’t get girls or attract pretty girls. That is why they have to succumb to these “shows.” Arthit thought it was nonsense and he is not focused on girls or having a family, he wants to work. Besides, the worker think that he was a better match for a particular someone- a person who has to come get him and bring food for him all the time.

That said person happened to arrive and was demanding his presence at the lunch table. The workers kept nudging Arthit- indicating that she was the person they were talking about.

Darunee kept complaining on how she had to come get him all the time, that it was far and it was tiring. Especially when her bike was not fixed yet. One of the workers pulled out her newly fixed bike! Darunee was so happy she promised to give a ride to the person who fixed her bike (thinking that one of the workers did it.) It just so happened that Arthit was the one who did it (lol) and she had to give him a ride. Instead though, she told him to give her a ride.

Another cute scene ensued as they went down a steep hill and Arthit told her to hold on to him. She refused but was scared to wits end when they went down the hill. She wrapped her arms tightly around his middle and screamed as they descended.

Arthit smiled, I smiled and I’m sure everyone else did!

The cousins reappeared to suck up to grandma (and to flirt with Arthit.) The cousins are convinced that farming was easy and that they could do it. Grandma decided to test this. She brought them to Arthit’s green house where he walked them through how he would grow a seed into a plant. The cousins snickered that it was very easy- until they tried to attempt and lifted the lid of natural fertilizers- which were manures! Disgusted, they started to throw up. Grandma told them that these manures were used to grow the oranges that they’ve eaten etc. The cousins looked green in the face.

This inside achievement brought Arthit and Darunee to turn to each other and smile, but Darunee then realized that she shouldn’t be smiling at him and turned away.

Later that day, Grandma decided to take her grandkids on a tour of her farm. The viewers are also taken on an educational journey through the different agricultural farms that grandma owned. She also included a few nuggets of wisdom on pursuing your dream career and ensuring that whatever it is you intend to do, to make sure that it is legitimate and that you do it with love and dedication. Yes m’ame!

By the end of their tour, the cousins were pooped (no pun intended) and passed out on their dinner plates. The mom was embarrassed on their behalf and the following morning she bribed them with electronics to continue sucking up to grandma.

To celebrate their hardwork, Arthit convinced his workers to finish everything and they can party that night. This news was passed on to Darunee by the manager who wanted to pit one against the other: he told her that Arthit was planning on making alcohol at his house. Darunee knew that grandma hated drunks especially those who made their own alcohol on her premises. In the past she had kicked someone out because of that.

That night, the sounds of the party made its way to the house where Darunee and grandma were preparing to eat dinner. Darunee told grandma Arthit’s supposed plan of making alcohol and they proceeded to go to Arthit’s house to find out.

Once there, the boys looked and acted like they were drunks. Before they could explain themselves, Darunee and Aunt Kaew assumed they were drinking alcohol. Come to their surprise however, it was a concoction that Arthit brewed- non-alcoholic. Failed once again in her endeavor to take down Arthit, Darunee wanted to leave. The workers felt that she disliked their presence but Darunee told them that she never considered them as outsiders; they were part of the family. In that case, Arthit invited her to celebrate with them, and of course at this point, she could not decline.

There, she learned something new about him again. He was the owner of the instrumental tune that she heard every night. She couldn’t help herself but to rock to the music.

The next morning Darunee had to get Arthit yet again- it seems like this will be one of her responsibilities moving forward. He was hosing the ground and pretended not to hear that she was calling for him. So she was forced to get closer, and when she did, he sprayed the water on her.

She yelped in surprise as the water splashed on her face.

Arthit muttered quietly, “That should show you not to tease others so much.”

She overheard his comment and grabbed hold of the other hose and aimed straight for his face.

They got into a water fight, spraying back and forth until they were soaked.

“Stop right now!” Arthit said.

“I will not!” Darunee replied.

“You won’t?” Arthit asked angrily before he forced the hose on her head.

Sputtering with water, Darunee yelled, “You’re an adult who likes to torment a child!”

“So you’ll admit that you’re a child now?”

Defensive, Darunee yelled, “You’re a man who likes to torment a woman!”

Arthit retorted with, “You’re a woman who likes to act like a child!”

Which made Darunee furious and she wrestled for the hose until she lost her balance. Arthit was able to catch her in mid air. They both fell to the ground. She realized they got dirty so she wiped the dirt on Arthit’s face, lol.

While they were washing up, Arthit handed a towel to Darunee. She refused it. Arthit thinks she’s disgusted of it. He pulled her over and started to towel her head dry.

“Stop I can do it on my own!” Darunee cried.

“Well if you did it from the beginning there wouldn’t be trouble! You stubborn child!”

Darunee stood up angrily, ‘I’m not a child- don’t you dare call me a child! I don’t like it!”

“If you’re not a child, then let’s put it to a test,” he challenged.

Darunee stood still, not backing down from his challenge.

Arthit proceeded to inch closer and placed one hand to her cheek. He leans in.. and Darunee holds her breath..

That’s a wrap for this week folks! Until next Friday ☺

*And of course, credit goes to Torranee FB and Gappkoo’s YT channel!

Categories: Lakorn Recaps

Tagged: Nadech Kugimiya, Torranee Nee Nee Krai Krong, Yaya Urassaya

“The Little Grandma and the Perfect 10”- Ep 2 Recap of This Land is Our Land

lovefia

Posted on June 30, 2012

The 17-year-old pain in the ass that Arthit referred to as “The Little Grandma,” was back to torment him again. He was minding his own business and fixing up the tractor truck when she sauntered by with a book in hand.

“You can stop trying so hard. Why don’t you wait until Grandma observe your work first then you can start sucking up to her,” Darunee recommended.

Arthit told her that wasn’t what he was trying to do then paused with thought and said, “or is that what you like to do?”

“Nai Arthit!”

If she were one of his little sisters, she would get a good spanking. Heck, with all of his sisters combined, they couldn’t amount to Darunee’s mischievous ways. But unfortunately because she was not his kin- as a matter of fact she is his “elder” (she’s technically his grandma’s “sister”)- Arthit ended up being the one who got his ass kicked instead.

Darunee rode off in her bike to the orange farm after unsuccessfully stirring up trouble with Arthit. He is starting to really get under her skin. He knew exactly what to say to piss her off.

As she stomped her way through the orange trees, she overheard the farm workers (those that opinions mattered to her) complimenting Arthit yet again. She stormed past them, disgusted with their good words. When she reached her home however, it was the last straw for her. Her deepest fear presented itself. Within just a matter of days, Arthit has won over everyone she cared about, especially grandma. She stood by the door and listened to grandma being so proud of him and Nah Kaew mentioning that this was the happiest she has seen grandma. This devastating news broke the camel’s back and Darunee rushed out of the house in tears.

She finally stopped when she reached the middle of the orange farm and broke down. In wretched tears she pondered to herself, who is going to care about an orphan like me- someone who has never even seen her parents’ face when she was born? Grandma has a new beloved grandchild. She won’t care about me now. Well of course, he is her grandson. Her blood. And who am I? If he knew that I was adopted, how much fun would he make of me? Who will understand me? Who will dry my tears? I’m just a kid with no mom.. except for..

And she spoke out loud, “Precious Mother Earth. There is only my precious mother earth.. someone I can rely on. My true mom is this very earth. Please accept me as one of your daughters..” and she laid on mother earth, crying for help and understanding.

Defeated, Darunee remained on the ground until the light gave way to darkness.

What she failed to notice was that grandma adored her. Loved her with every inch of her being. She didn’t hear that grandma (as Darunee walked away crying) asked for her.. and said that among the thirty or so kin that she has, at least she will have two she can rely on.

Darunee also didn’t know that grandma was overcome with anxiety when she heard that Darunee had not come home yet. The night was full on and Darunee was missing.

Nah Kaew went in search for her and found her lying on the ground. Tears soaking her face and her body heaved with defeat.

She decided to give her some words of wisdom so that she may carry on.

“Grandma will flip the earth upside down looking for you. She was very worried. You must realize that Arthit has just arrived, he could not compete with you. She has raised you with her own hands.. how can you give up? Arthit won people over with his goodness and work abilities. You must stand up and fight him. You must fight! You must prove that even if you are a woman, you won’t lose!”

That fired Darunee up and gave her back the confidence and gall to go up against Arthit again.

As they made their way back to the house, Darunee saw Arthit. Her confidence was just freshly stocked up.

“I’m not afraid of you,” she told him. “I will make you see that even though I am just a mere woman, I can stand up to a man like you.”

Arthit wanted to clear the air with her, “I just want you to know that the reason why I’m here is to toughen myself up. I need to amend my father’s reputation. I am here for each and every one of my siblings. I am not here to butt heads with you. You should know that in reality, I can’t compete with you.”

Darunee perked up at the words. “It’s good that you know this.” She turned around and Arthit watched her back as she continued to be arrogant. Little did she know that he started to walk, leaving her to talk to herself.

Grandma doesn’t let her get away with a scolding. Darunee needed to realize what she had done. But it was hard to be firm with someone you held dear to your heart, especially when tears were rolling down her face. Grandma embraced Darunee and comforted her. Helping her realize that just because she is not grandma’s true blood, she loved her no less. It was a heart-wrenching moment and beautiful to watch the bond between grandma and Darunee.

In Arthit’s rustic home, he penned a letter to his parents, updating them of his status.

The following morning, Darunee had to get Arthit to the breakfast table. Recently it seems that she had to either bring him food or get him to eat at the house, much to her chagrin. She did this unwillingly and begrudgingly. It was never pretty when she had to go and get him.

Case in point the tractor scene again. She was in a bad mood already because she wanted to go into town and buy some books but she had to go get him first.

“Can’t you pay attention to the time so that I don’t have to come get you for every meal?! It’s exhausting!”

“Yes.”

“Yes, and what?”

“What do you mean?”

“Nai Arthit! Will you stop pestering me?! Are you going to eat or not? Just say it.”

“Honestly I can eat with the workers.”

“See that’s all you needed to say then! Next time try practicing with clip answers that way we can have short interactions so I won’t have to conversate with you. It’s exhausting, do you understand?”

“Yep,” Arthit nodded his head.

Which got under her skin and she fumed.

He warned her, “Being angry is exhausting too!”

She became even angrier and raised her fists.

“Hitting is exhausting too!”

Darunee stomped away but then walked back and kicked him in the ass. His head hit the tractor door.

“Kicking is exhausting- but it’s satisfying!” Darunee exploded, leaving Arthit to rub his head in pain and cursed.

At the lunch table back at the house, the tables turned between the two. They start to have little accidents that brought their tension into new heights.

The trip that caused Darunee to fall on Arthit’s lap, the awkward glances back and forth. This sets up an attraction, albeit unnoticed on their part.

Arthit experienced his first stir of annoyance with that attraction. They were going into town for some supplies when he saw Darunee in the arms of a man. He wasn’t aware the reasons why he was irritated but when they were at their last stop, they started bickering. He said that she should focus on her studies. If she were his younger sister he would tell her that she would be forbidden from having a boyfriend.

This got Darunee angry and she spat that he had no right to interfere with her life. It doesn’t matter if she has a boyfriend or how many she has. But Arthit indicated that “if she was his sister..” meaning that since she is not, but he assumed she must really want to be his younger sister then (ha, funny logic.) It didn’t go over well with Darunee.

The two has so many cute run-ins that watching the scenes will only do it justice. The waterfall scene, the som-tum scene and many more. These scenes are slowly building up their awareness and attraction for each other. Their daily interactions are hilarious and refreshing.

It also goes to show that Arthit is a perfect ten. Can Arthit be this perfect? It sure looks like it.. we get to see all sides to his personality and behavior: he is a hard worker, he is polite (unless instigated), he can dance, sing, play instruments and apparently most importantly (according to the workers) he’s hot!

He’s certainly stirring up a lot of attraction among the female farm workers and neighboring businesses, he is the talk of the town.

But things will only get harder. Not only does he have the conflict with Darunee who hated his guts, he is presented with another conflict: grandma’s relatives.

They came in the form of the spoiled son and daughter (as well as greedy wife) of his uncle. They have just learned of his story and wanted to meet him. They also think they have more class and are much wealthier than he. Arthit is un-phased by their reaction.

The end of episode two was like a cherry on top.

Darunee wanted to make sure he didn’t succeed in fixing up the tractor so she stole his supplies. After pocketing them, she started to walk away but saw him as he was making his way towards the tractor.

She looked guiltily at him. “I didn’t do anything.”

“I didn’t say anything.”

“I’m leaving then.”

“Hold on- you can’t go yet.”

“But I said I didn’t do anything!”

“Stay still- let me remove something that is on your shoe.”

“What? A snake? I’m not afraid.”

“No.”

She started to list the bugs and reptiles that she was not afraid of.

“Cockroach.”

“Just a cockroach,” then she looked down and saw a giant cockroach on her shoe.

Darunee screamed and threw herself on Arthit. Which left him stunned by her reaction and the feel of her body against him.

“Is it gone yet?”

“It’s gone.”

“Are you sure??”

“Open your eyes then.”

She slowly peeled her eyes open and glanced down.

Happy that they’re gone, she looked up. Their eyes met and they were nose to nose.

Cute!

Can Darunee succeed in sabotaging Arthit at the farm? Stay tune for episode 3!

*photos credit to Torranee FB and screenshots of Gappkoo’s channel on YT

Categories: Lakorn Recaps

Tagged: Nadech Kugimiya, Torranee Nee Nee Krai Krong, Yaya Urassaya

“When Arthit Met Darunee”- Ep 1 Recap of This Land is Our Land

lovefia

Posted on June 29, 2012

It was a hot, sunny day at the corn farm, where the fields of corn stretched beyond your eyes and along the horizon. A vision that was near and dear to Arthit’s (Nadech Kugimiya) heart. Not only is agriculture his major in college, it is his passion: his livelihood. At 20 years old, Arthit was unlike many of his peers, he knew exactly what he wanted to do with his life; that is farming.

His professor offered him the opportunity to attend an agricultural seminar that will supplement his education and give him a big picture of the applications of agriculture. Arthit took the chance wholeheartedly.

Seated at the cultural center, Arthit is absorbed with the lecture, learning the history and timeline, appearing impressed and appreciative of The King’s endeavor.

Meanwhile, an old fashioned pickup truck pulls into the parking lot of the cultural center. Out stepped Darunee (Yaya Urassaya), a teenager in sneakers and a ponytail, who was in a rush. Her driving scared the wits out of her companion, one of her elder, who prayed for his life. She shrugged off his reaction, what was the big idea? She can drive, if a little too fast.

As she rushed through the exhibit, she caught up with the group who was in the theatre. Sneaking her way in, she found an empty seat in which a person had given up just seconds earlier.

Arthit was in the dark theatre realizing that he did not have anything to write with. He had asked his friend earlier for a pen but didn’t notice that the friend got up to leave. As he turned, he saw a pen and assumed that his friend was offering it to him and immediately plucked it away.

Darunee’s jaw dropped. She had been ready to scribble on her notepad when her pen was snatched before her eyes. She watched in shock as the person took notes with her pen. But shortly after, she became distracted with the video that showed the beauty of the farming industry. And mesmerized, she forgot that she couldn’t take notes.

Until the lights came on and he still had her pen- how should she ask for her pen back? As she contemplated on her wordings, the man turned to her and flashed his dimpled smile. He urged her to come along and took off after the crowd.

Appalled, Darunee stands up, “You took my pen and you still have the gall to smile at me?!”

As they observed the gallery, Darunee stalks slowly behind him, still trying to conjure up the right way to ask for her pen back. A few male students noticed her walking after Arthit and mentioned that to him. He looked over at her and just smiles, the dimples showing themselves again.

“Hey!” she stopped him from walking away. “Give me back the pen that you yanked out of my hands!”

He looked worriedly at her as she takes it out of his hands.

“I apologize, I thought the pen belonged to my friend.”

“I was sitting right next to you! How can it belong to your friend?”

“Well,” he started, confused too. “My friend was sitting where you were sitting first-“ he shook his head and decided against explaining, “let’s just say that I’m sorry.”

Darunee couldn’t resist but adding, “Next time you do something, you should try checking out your surroundings first,” and she walked away triumphantly.

Arthit watched her walk away and says, “It’s just a pen.”

Oh, but it was not just a pen to Darunee. It was her pen. And people are not allowed to take things that belong to her. This is one of the early behaviors expressed in Darunee.

Their first impression only got worst.

In the next exhibit, a little misunderstanding occurred. Darunee thought he was talking to himself, while he thought he was talking to a friend, so as she tried to walk away, he grasped her by the shoulders and pulled her close, thinking that it was his friend. She gasped and he apologized profusely. He said he will try to stay away from her while she fumes in anger.

The screech she released was continued onto the orange farm where she was retelling the story to her grandma and Nah Kaew who was the housekeeper, old family friend and the Jill of all trade. Nah Kaew let out a boisterous laughter and wondered if the man merely held her or kissed her- for Darunee to hate him so much.

The precedence was set, Darunee thinks the man she met was a pervert and out rightly hates him.

The man in reference, Arthit, was returning to his family home after graduation. A solemn expression crossed his face: it was a bittersweet return. His little army of a family raced to greet him as he approached his parents and bowed at their feet. He thanked them for their generosity, their sacrifice and for being his parents. He has decided not to pursue additional education so he could get a job and help his parents put the rest of his brothers and sisters to school.

His father wanted him to go into government work while Arthit has a passion in developing his own farm one day. He knew that working for the government will not help put the food on the table and he wanted to do more. But his father thinks that being a farmer is inferior, it’s hard work and not worthy. He is determined to talk to his boss and see if Arthit could be a potential government worker.

Soon his father learned that Arthit was right. He should do what he loves. Pravit sucked up his honor and reached out to his mother, someone he hasn’t spoken to for so long. Arthit also had no idea about his grandmother, a strong woman who ran the farm and has increased its size to tens and thousands of acres. A real pioneer woman.

Pravit explained the history about him and his grandmother, (we also get grandma’s version as she tells this story to Darunee.) Pravit was grandma’s eldest son who determined that farming was not his cup of tea. He took off and stole money that grandmother had saved up. At the time, grandmother was really poor. She despised him because of that. She admitted that she was very angry at him at the time- to the extent of not reaching out to him when her husband passed away. He hadn’t sent any missives of his whereabouts and she didn’t attempt to find it.

Yet she wasn’t going to shun her own grandson when he is asking to help her at the farm in order to help provide for an education to his brothers and sisters.

However she had some conditions: if he was serious about working at the farm, then he would do so with no wage. In return for his efforts, she will fund his sibling’s education.

Darunee bet with one hundred percent certainty that he will not show up. Her rationale was, who in their right mind would?

But she was wrong, after all, Arthit was not like anyone she knew.

Arthit is truly a dutiful son, because not only will he work for free to help his parents pay for his sibling’s education, but he wants to make amends with his grandmother on his father’s behalf.

But deep down, he is doing this for himself too. He will be able to be an agriculturist to his heart’s content and get to know his grandmother- in which he just discovered that he had one- and who turns out to be exactly like him- a farmer at heart. His excitement is clear as he murmurs, “my grandma?”

Packing up his backpack, Arthit makes his way to his grandma’s farm, not knowing that many challenges await him.

Especially one big challenge in the name of Darunee, whom not only adores grandma, but is devoted to her. After all, grandmother had adopted her and raised her with her own hands. Darunee is naturally very jealous in nature and does not play well with others when they threatened her comfort zone.

It is a fair reaction based on her personality but deep down, we know that Darunee is just scared and insecure. Arthit is the real grandson and although she knows grandma loves her, blood ties are thick.

The following day, Arthit almost got ran over by the old fashioned truck as he arrived to grandma’s town. The car was driven by a person in a rush (the very same one..)

The farm workers, Nah Kaew and Darunee peered at the body that was laying on the street. They prayed he was still alive.

Arthit was merely shaken up. As he tried to get up however, he lost his balance and fell on top of Darunee. As they came eye to eye, she recognized his face and immediately got angry.

He was the pervert at the cultural exhibit!

Nah Kaew told Darunee to apologize to the man.

Angry, Darunee said, “why should I apologize to him?! He’s the same guy who wasn’t watching where he was going like the first time! Oh and he likes to molest woman! Even after an accident he dared to do that!” she pulled her cardigan across her chest.

Arthit rose from the ground, “What the heck? You’re the one who wasn’t looking where she’s driving. If I didn’t jump out of the way, you would have crushed me!”

The two farm workers agreed in unison, “That’s true Khun Nee!”

Arthit was not afraid to stand up to her.

He also soon learned that Darunee’s gang was from grandma’s farm and he was able to get a ride with them. Only Darunee had more tricks up her sleeves.. but in the end, he always had the advantage, especially when they discovered that he’s Arthit- grandma’s grandson!

It was easy to see why the two farm workers adored Arthit already. They thought he was kind and good looking. Darunee, could not fathom why people adore him so much.

They arrived back to the farm in one shape and it was the time for Arthit to meet with his paternal grandmother.

Darunee was trying to talk him down when he walked through the door and caught grandma’s breath away. For an inexplicable reason, she felt drawn to him, her grandson from the son that she had ended all ties to… he appeared down to earth, modest and kind. A son that she always wanted? Could it be?

Grandma dared not think about it.

But Arthit gave her his respect and bowed to her feet, only when he looked to his left, he saw another pair of feet. It belonged to his other “grandma.” A young and irritating one who is glaring at him with superiority.

She wanted him to call her “grandma.” But in the Thai culture, one acknowledges another by age, so she had to succumb to calling him “p,” which is someone older.

Things are not working out for Darunee so far.

But it only got worst when she saw him trying suck up to grandma.

Only she didn’t know that he wasn’t trying, he was being who he is. And with what we’ve seen so far, his character should be loved: he is kind, patient, a gentleman, but stubborn and can stick up for himself, stands for what he believes in and is a dutiful son. Can’t ask for a more perfect hero.

Grandma is slowly starting to see that. She asked him questions to gauge his goals, his true characters and was surprised by his knowledge and love for agriculture. He is making her happy and proud that mayhaps she has a kin that can eventually help her manage this empire that she has created.

As for Darunee, it doesn’t help that Toon, the manager, is pitting her against Arthit, blowing her ears that he’s going to take the #1 grandchild spot. Acknowledging her deepest fear.

How will she handle someone who is stealing her grandma’s affections?

What’s for sure is that they are adorable together, I love when Darunee was walking Arthit to his quarters (a gloomy home that everyone deemed it haunted- except for Arthit) and he asked her why she despised him. She asked him back why he wanted to know. He responded with, “Well I’m going to be living here.” She didn’t respond. “I’m here to work- or do you think I’m here to take money from grandma?” Their bickering scenes are cute, especially when Arthit teases her and does not give in. A person like Darunee- one that is tough and stubborn- needs someone who can stand up to her!

And who doesn’t love this scene? giggle giggle.

Stay tuned for Episode 2 and flex those smiling muscles because they will be put to good use!

*screen captures taken from YT, you can watch full episodes on Prisnatube’s channel!

Categories: Lakorn Recaps

Tagged: Nadech Kugimiya, Torranee Nee Nee Krai Krong, Yaya Urassaya

Are You Ready?

lovefia

Posted on June 27, 2012

..for the highly anticipated lakorn? One that kept teasing us of its scheduled premier date, yet left us waiting and waiting?

I hope it is not in vain. We shall find out Friday, June 29th.

I’m talking about Torranee Ni Nee Krai Krong (entitled in English This Land Is Our Land, which further reminds me of a song I sang as a child, “this land is your land, this land is my land, from California, to the New York Islands..”- Americans may know this by heart, and now it’s probably stuck in your head. You’re welcome.)

The premise of the drama surrounds a dutiful son named Arthit who came to prove to his grandma what he is made of, essentially to atone for his father’s transgressions. But his major challenge is not so much grandma herself, but the beguiling granddaughter, Darunee, who is overprotective of her grandma’s affections. Meaning, she does not take lightly someone who will threaten to steal the attention and love away from her. You can read the full synopsis from the fabulous Wishboniko who will be subbing this drama.

Clearly the most anticipated aspect of this drama is the fact that this is the third collaboration between Nadech Kugimiya and Yaya Urassaya. As far as I’m concerned, they can continue to film lakorns together forever. Their fanbase would probably agree- if you have time you can even read the 100+ page thread at Asianfuse. Or you can visit the official Facebook page for Torranee, listen to live themed songs at Inwlakorns (which is on repeat on my iPod..), or merely type in Nadech and Yaya on YT for the myriad of videos dedicated to this duo.

Finally, what can you expect from me? A few months ago, the majority voted Torranee to be my next recap project. I still may pursue this, however, it will not be at the speed of my recapping days with Plerng Toranong. I may even steer more towards themed posts- much like the ones I wrote for GRGR. Heck, even I’m not too sure yet, whatever strikes my fancy or inspires me while I’m watching Torranee.

Whatever the case may be, I am ready.. I will be watching.. and spazzing.

Will you?

Categories: Lakorn Recaps

Tagged: Nadech Kugimiya, Torranee Nee Nee Krai Krong, Yaya Urassaya

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Posted on July 10, 2012

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“Actions Have Consequences”- Ep 5 Recap of This Land Is Our Land

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Oh Darunee, what are we going to do with you?- Ep 4 Recap of This Land is Our Land

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Game Rai Game Rak- A Review

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A Whole Lotta Love- First Impressions on This Land is Our Land (Week 1)

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“The Little Grandma and the Perfect 10”- Ep 2 Recap of This Land is Our Land

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Posted on June 30, 2012

“When Arthit Met Darunee”- Ep 1 Recap of This Land is Our Land

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Posted on June 29, 2012

Are You Ready?

lovefia

Posted on June 27, 2012