Tiem an Cua Quy

Of the recent horror anthologies to be released from asia on Netflix, I'd put this at the top.

Pros: + Grounded: It doesn't jump the shark halfway through the series like Joko's series with aliens.

+ Quality is consistent: Terror Tuesday had some good but a lot of really bad episodes. Devil's Diner stays around 7.5-9 for the whole series.

+ Not preachy: I'm not religious, and this show doesn't expect you to be to understand/relate to the horror like Indonesian horror. It's more supernatural horror, similar to Japanese

Cons:

• Not scary: Even classifying it as a thriller/suspense might be generous.

The series revolves around a mysterious restaurant where the owner (played by Le Quoc Nam) has the ability to prepare dishes that will help customers achieve their deepest wishes. However, every wish comes with a hefty price - often their own soul. Each episode explores one of the five cardinal sins according to Buddhist teachings: Greed, Anger, Ignorance, Pride, Doubt, and the final episode, Karma, where all the consequences are revealed.

Highlights Creative script, many layers of meaning: Each episode is a separate story, reflecting human desires and sins, from greed, anger to arrogance and suspicion. The film not only has horror elements but also incorporates profound messages about life and morality.

Impressive acting: Le Quoc Nam excellently plays the role of a mysterious restaurant owner, with sharp eyes and a scheming demeanor. Young actors such as Ma Ran Do, Vo Dien Gia Huy, Lan Thy also bring convincing performances, contributing to highlighting the message of the film.

Carefully invested images and sounds: The film uses dark, gloomy tones, creating a mysterious atmosphere suitable for the content. The dishes in the film are not only beautiful but also symbolic of each character's fate.

Do not overuse jump-scares: Instead of using sudden scares, the film focuses on building character psychology and mysterious plots, creating a deep obsession for viewers.

Some points to note Awkward dialogue: Some dialogues in the film are commented to be too bookish and unnatural, especially with working-class characters, causing some scenes to lose their authenticity.

Uneven film rhythm: Some episodes have a slow pace, which can make viewers feel a lack of drama.

I miss the series "Booth at the End" where a mysterious man sits in the corner of a diner and offers alternatives to people's fates as it disrupts the nature of another. I'm an Audio engineer, whether that makes sense, and when manipulating frequencies in one element it can significantly alter the dynamics of an entire project. With that in mind, I start to feel that I understand karma and this series, along with the Booth at the End, brings that to screen. The Devil's Diner isn't as intricate, but definitely hits the same from episode to episode. Everything is balance. If one desires excessively they must also accept the alternative circumstances. We just have to see the bigger picture, humanely. The Devil's Diner preaches that in every intro. I don't believe it has anything to do with the supernatural, but the fact that the universe is willing to give and take based on our desires. At least, that's how my life has been and that's how I conceptualize this series. Although, the Booth at the End has a more to offer this series carries on that eerie sense of balance in nature I wish I saw more of in film. Btw, I'm Batobeats. Listen to my music please.

I really enjoyed this. It wasn't perfect if we look at what we expect from Hollywood cinema, but it was well done. I'm a Buddhist and love that the folklore and tradition has harnesses a place in horror more recently. The karmic traditions of humanity and compassion play a big role in this, as do the elements of selfishness. The series incorporated an ongoing storyline as well as mini anecdotes about suffering as we see it in our world. It might seem a bit dramatic from the usual standpoint, but I thought it was well done.

I am incredibly happy to be getting more media from Southeast Asia, as I used to live there for half my life, and the impact of this series is incredibly moving but also horrifying.

"Devil's Diner" is truly the first spiritual show made by a Vietnamese director, originating from Vietnam. If I could, I would rate it 11, haha. You guys must watch this show to learn more about the spiritual culture of Asian people in general and Vietnamese spiritual culture in particular.

I don't understand why some people rate this show below 10++++++!??? I think IMDB should upgrade to allow ratings of 11 or even 12+++ (JUST FOR THIS SHOW).

The film is not only a thrilling story but also a window into the hidden corners of the spiritual world that many have yet to explore. The director has put a lot of passion into recreating rituals, customs, and beliefs deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture. From the smallest details like setting up an altar, lighting incense, to scenes filmed at temples, pagodas, and shrines, everything is portrayed authentically and vividly.

Those who love to explore culture, especially spiritual culture, will find in "Devil's Diner" an endless source of inspiration. The show is not just entertainment but also educational, helping viewers understand the spiritual values that Vietnamese people have preserved through generations. It would be a shame if you missed the opportunity to experience such a unique piece of art.