Homestay: A Movie Review

by Ikmal Safwan

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At first glance, you would think that Homestay is a movie about teenage love and vacation. Well if you are the philosophical type, you might see and even make a metaphorical observation on philosophical connotations of the title, Homestay, and the ephemeral of life. Homestay is a good movie that brings in thrills, joy, and mystery altogether in a story that is mainly about self-acceptance, family, and friends.

With the running time of 131 minutes, Homestay starts slow with a mystery thriller vibe and very little information about the main protagonist’s circumstances were provided. I believe that this was an intentional move by the director of the movie to echo the confusion of the main character towards the audience. But as the story progresses, the tone of the movie shifts into a more light-hearted scene with fun-filled and cheesy segments.

Homestay revolves around a reincarnated soul stuck in Min’s (James Teeradon Supapunpinyo) body. According to the “guardian” (Nopachai Chainam), who took on many forms, this incarnation is like a gift to the soul but not without a condition. Within 100 days, he has to find out what caused Min’s death; if he succeeds, he will be reborn again but if he fails, he will leave Min’s body for eternity and never to be reborn again.

The story could take a darker path with the heavy and sensitive subject, but Director Wongpoom took the positive route while keeping the essence of teenage issues from the novel. Wongpoom, however, focused more on the development of Min’s character – from a hesitant and coward soul to an assured and self-actualized being. Min’s character was made to be more interesting by not only his portrayal as another suicide victim, but as a multi-dimensional person who can grow and has hopes, dreams and also frustration.

Through showing how Min’s character evolved and changed while searching for the reasons to why he did what he did, Wongpoom creatively used the task given to Min as metaphor for suicide therapy. We can see from the beginning that Min is a vulnerable soul so a change in his perspective sends a good message to the audience – it is possible to love a happier life by not looking down at our situation bur rather empathizing with the people who unintentionally hurt us.

Sticking true to its title, the movie relates to the non-attachment principle; everything will come and go eventually. Upon entering Min’s body, the spirit lives joyfully, forgotten about the 100 days rule. But when realization hits that he had a rare opportunity to live again and took on someone’s body, he starts to own the body and maximize the chances that was bestowed upon him.

Acting wise, it was remarkably done by the star from Bad Genius, James Teeradon Supapunpinyo (Min). James managed to maintain his charm and believability regardless whether it is a comedic scene or a dramatic performance. Despite being a new actress, Cherprang Areekul (Pi), gave a big revelation in her debut role taking a much challenging character that deals with peer pressure and sexual harassment.

The chemistry that both leads shared was remarkably charming as there is a love line between them. They portrayed this sweet, pure teenage love perfectly with genuine smiles and body languages that show their affection on screen. Though later they face some hardships (not the one that you expected), both of the character grow in such short period of time and that itself is remarkably beautiful.

Unlike any other adaptations, Homestay stayed true to its root which was made possible by the director when he decided to localize the story to fit the Thai context. Homestay managed to come across as an authentic Thai story different from other cross-cultural adaptations like 50 First Kisses.

Homestay absolutely lives up to its hype. I could definitely say that Homestay is a movie that carries a big heart that put big emphasis on the importance of life. Homestay covers lots of everyday issue and targets multiple level of audience ranging from teenagers to teachers to parents. From my perspective, I believe that this movie would really help teenagers who need help and fresh perspective in their overbearing lives.