“Don’t you know how much Thai people crave merit?”
– Win
Let’s be honest—why do you worship? Is it to find peace? To make your dreams come true? Or perhaps to seek a better life? People worship for various reasons, and some even donate their wealth as part of their devotion.
But what if the money you willingly donate is used to pay someone else’s debt instead of serving the greater good?
This is the provocative premise behind The Believers (2024), a gripping Thai series that follows three young adults—Win (James-Teeradon Supapunpinyo), Dear (Ally-Achiraya Nitibhon), and Game (Peach-Pachara Chirathivat)—as they turn a struggling temple into their ticket to financial salvation.
source: Netflix
A Tale of Ambition and Desperation
The trio starts out as partners in a failing NFT game business called Pirate’s Hell, only to lose 6 million baht to an employee who hacked and ran off with their assets. Strapped for cash and drowning in 20% interest loans from loan sharks, their lives spiral out of control.
With no other options, Win returns to his family home, where he notices his mother counting large sums of donation money for their local temple. A light bulb goes off in his head: what if they could use donations to get out of debt?
Driven by this idea, Win convinces Dear and Game to join him. They discover an abandoned temple, Phummaram, and renovate it, transforming it into a bustling religious hub. From hosting markets and singing competitions to launching a podcast featuring monks, they leave no stone unturned to generate revenue.
Their efforts pay off, and the temple gains immense popularity—even attracting donations from influential figures like the powerful politician, Ae. But as the money rolls in, so do the complications.
Behind the Curtains of the Temple
Initially, things seem smooth thanks to Tang, the right-hand man of the head monk, who helps them navigate temple affairs. However, Tang’s shady dealings eventually lead to a police investigation involving accusations of drug abuse and money laundering.
The situation spirals when Win and Dear are arrested, and Game stumbles upon Tang’s dead body in a secret hideout. Just when you think the plot can’t get any darker, a shocking twist unfolds: Ekachai, the seemingly virtuous head monk, is revealed to be the mastermind behind Tang’s murder.
Ekachai isn’t just complicit in the temple’s corrupt practices—he’s actively working with Ae to sustain a web of illegal schemes. To save his friends, Game is forced to cooperate with Ekachai, leaving viewers questioning how far morality can stretch when survival is at stake.
Source: Netflix
A Story Rooted in Thai Culture and Society
What makes The Believers truly compelling is its exploration of themes like faith, corruption, and human ambition. The series doesn’t shy away from tackling uncomfortable questions about the commercialization of religion and the lengths people go to in the name of devotion.
The narrative is masterfully layered, blending social critique with gripping drama. For instance, the character Win exemplifies meticulous storytelling. James-Teeradon Supapunpinyo’s portrayal of Win is nothing short of stellar, with his subtle gestures and intense expressions adding depth to the character. Fans familiar with his previous work will notice his remarkable dedication to embodying Win’s complex persona.
Game’s family dynamics are another highlight, showcasing relatable struggles of sibling jealousy and parental favoritism. The series also carefully weaves in a subplot about Win’s missing father, which adds a layer of mystery and sets up a tantalizing possibility for a second season.
Intriguing Subplots and Emotional Depth
Beyond the central storyline, the series delivers memorable subplots, such as the budding connection between Dear and Monk Dol. Their slow-burning, unspoken relationship beautifully captures the blend of hope and heartbreak that comes with unfulfilled love.
The mystery surrounding Win’s father is another intriguing thread. Early on, we learn that he disappeared 18 years ago, and in the final episode, a detective casually hints at the unresolved case. Could this be a setup for The Believers Season 2?
Why You Should Watch The Believers
At its core, The Believers is a powerful commentary on human nature. It delves into why people worship, donate, and put their faith in religious institutions. Whether it’s Win’s mother praying for her husband’s return after 18 years, or Game’s family buying talismans in the hope of healing their grandfather, the series reminds us that faith often stems from deeply personal reasons.
With nine episodes directed by Wattanapong Wongwan, The Believers offers a refreshing take on Thai drama, perfect for anyone seeking something beyond the usual horror or comedy genres. It immerses you in Thailand’s rich culture and Buddhist practices while keeping you hooked with its thrilling plot.
So, as you binge-watch this sensational series—No. 1 TV spot in Thailand within just a week of its release—ask yourself this: why do you worship?
If you’re looking for an engaging, thought-provoking watch, The Believers should definitely be on your list. And who knows? While you wait for the much-anticipated second season, you might just find yourself reflecting on your own beliefs.
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