The Believers

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.

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.

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.

Finally! I've been waiting for this kind of originality. This topic of budhism is semi forbidden to discuss but they nailed it to the head. I like how they also balanced out the good and the bad within the "belief business." They did it with such nuance and fairness that me as a viewer find entertaining and eye opening at the same time. You can be critical, fair, and respectful while also be skeptical about how things work behind closed door. I cannot wait for season 2. This is probably by far the best Thai Netflix serie to date.

A little note: find it a little annoying/ distracting when Win kept messing with his hair in difficult situations. But other than that they're good bunch.

I haven't seen a Thai series that tells a story with such boldness and fun in a long time. Usually, if a series aims to expose "social issues," it "tends not to be enjoyable" because it's too heavy to watch comfortably. And if the series is fun, the plot often lacks depth. But this series manages to do both. The storyline has a heist-film vibe and features characters that are both charming and highly human. It's rare to see a Thai series with a well-defined trio of characters like this.

The series makes us root for the main characters, even though we know they are "not good people." It offers multiple perspectives, showing us why these people who exploit religion do what they do. The series is well-rounded, with humor, drama, love, family, and a touch of investigation that comes in towards the end, making me eager to see more of this aspect in Season 2.

What I love the most is the unpredictability of the characters. We have no idea how things will end for them, especially Win, who has both very dark and very light sides that are hard to separate. He's an incredibly well-written and interesting character.

This is a must-watch Thai original series that I highly recommend. It brings together an astonishing cast that is truly impressive. You don't need to be invested in Buddhism to enjoy it, as its concept can make you think of other similar "markets" that are equally unsettling, whether they be other religions or certain non-profit organizations.

However, if you are invested... you know... you will be even more deeply engaged with what the series 'Sathu' is trying to convey.