An ambitious political thriller that stutters while exploring Thai history
After the global success of the Thai BL drama, KinnPorsche, its studio, BOC has returned with its first movie, Man Suang. Pushed as historical espionage, it created quite a buzz as most of the KinnPorsche cast returned to star in this epic saga.
Apo Nattawin stars as Khem while Mile Phakphum portrays Chatra. In the supporting roles, we have more familiar faces from KinnPorsche – Bas Asavapatr as Wan along with Tong Thanayut as Hong with Pong Pongsakorn and Nodt Nutthasid in cameo roles.
The ensemble cast also includes Saifah Tanthana, Gandhi Wasuwitchayagit, Orn Ornanong Panyawong and Tua Pradit Prasartthong. Following its theatrical release in 2023, it received a Netflix release in February 2024.
Man Suang is set in 19th century Thailand as it follows two exploited dancers, Khem and Wan who are sent to find evidence of rebels at ManSuang, a high-class but suspicious Chinese club. As political conspiracies threaten to shake the very foundation of Siam, different parties race to put their candidate on the throne as King Rama III’s reign comes to a close.
Khem and Wan run into Chatra, a musician at the club who has his own reasons for helping them reveal the truth. Unfortunately, it leads to the 3 boys getting tangled in a web of lies and danger way beyond what they had signed up for.
The movie explores the glamorous and traditional aspects of 19th-century Thailand from the local beauty to the over-the-top luxury of Chinese establishments. The folk music adds to the ambience and brings the story to life providing an immersive experience for fans and non-fans alike. Along with the fast-paced unravelling of the mystery, Man Suang also explores homophobic, xenophobic and classist themes with a subtle touch.
But what keeps the movie engaging is that all of the secondary characters also have something going on, peppering the story with red herrings and clues alike. Despite the limited time, all of the characters have clear-cut personalities with certain contributions to the plot. In fact, we can go as far as to say that Man Suang succeeds as an ensemble story; yes Khem and Chatra may be the main leads, but everyone else is given equal space and all of the actors make the most of it.
Man Suang gets lighthearted when Khem and Chatra start bonding. However, the tonal shift is a little jarring as the comedic elements don’t recur throughout the movie. It is just a short segment in a 2-hour film which doesn’t pay off. And no, there is no romantic storyline between any of the characters despite the marketing tactics. But that actually isn’t a drawback, more like capitalisation on KinnPorsche’s fame which we cannot fault.
It also doesn’t help that some of the moments, especially the flashbacks of the movie are too complicated. They are meant for exposition and character motivation but it takes the viewers out of the experience as they try to make sense of things. This ruins the smooth pace one would expect from a mystery.
However, the movie does find its groove in the second half when all the players and their roles in the narrative become clear. Instead of worrying about who is who and what are they all conspiring over, viewers can sit back and enjoy the action that unfolds. Despite the inconsistent tone and pacing, Man Suang offers Thai grandeur, intrigue and entertainment for viewers interested in a blend of history and espionage.
Read More: Man Suang Ending Explained
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Verdict - 6.5/10
6.5/10