by Harry Lamer

Created on: May 18, 2009

I find I always enjoy films that are refreshingly frank and honest in the way they address societal and reality issues.

That, aside from the film's eye candy (of which there are aplenty), I would say is one of the chief strengths in Love of Siam, a 2007 multiple award-winning Thai film.

Tong (Mario Maurer) and Mew (Wiwisit Hiranyawongkul) are boyhood friends who find themselves separated after a tragic disappearance in Tong's family. Years later, while in their teens, Tong and Mew meet up again, both having moved on in their lives. Tong has a very pretty girlfriend, while Mew is an aspiring musician with a successful boyband, August.

Yet neither is fully happy with his life. Tong's family is still struggling to cope with the loss of Tong's missing sister; Mew is finding it hard to find new inspiration for his songs. Their reunion however, helps bring back the memories and forces them (and Tong's family) to come to terms with their respective problems.

Four gorgeous teens play starring roles in this romantic teen drama - but Love of Siam isn't just about these four, but also about the people around them, and the sometimes adult issues that face them as they grapple around with their own unadulterated lives.

In fact, what impresses me deeply is how each main character has his or her own storyline/issue fleshed out throughout the film.

It is almost an ensemble cast, each character almost equally good in his/her respective role - though kudos must also go to Sinjai Plengpanich who won Best Actress at the Thai film awards for her role as Tong's mother.

But what clinches it must be the controversial element in the story. I could use just one word to describe this movie, and everyone would understand immediately.

But I find myself agreeing with the producers of the film and director Chookiat Sakveerakul, who touted it a teen romance cum family drama.

Don't let that fool you though - viewers have apparently walked away from cinemas in disgust. There's a reason why this film will never be shown in some countries, including a fairly cosmopolitan and neighbourly Singapore.

Yet despite the controversy, Love of Siam has garnered critical acclaim and dominated the 2007 Thai film awards season - and for good reason.

Indeed, Love of Siam stands out as a drama film in a Thai industry better known for its horror, action or comedy genres.

Let me put it to you straight - it is definitely worth a watch so long as you allow yourself to keep an open mind. After all, it's the least a film - one that doesn't shy from the issues explored in this story - can expect.

Rating: 4/5 Stars from MOOVY REVUE

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