As a fan of GMMTV series, while everything I saw of the 2024 Line-up, Wandee Goodday was one I was extremely excited for. Not only is the series directed by the talented Tanwarin Sukkhapisit (one of my favorites), it also features a stellar cast including Sapol Assawamunkongm (Great) from Manner of Death and Sarin Ronnakiat (Inn) from The Miracle of Teddy Bear.
I also discovered – when watching the opening credits – that Luke Ishikawa Plowden, whom I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing, also makes an appearance in the series, which – I believe – makes Wandee Goodday his first BL!
Wandee (Inn), an orthopedic doctor, has nurtured a deep crush on his friend Ter (Suphakorn Sriphothong aka Pod, Dark Blue Kiss, My Dear Donovan) for the entire eight years they have known one another. However, Ter has always regarded him as just a friend. When Wandee finally musters the courage to confess his feelings, he is confronted with a harsh reality-Ter is not the person he had idealized, in fact, he’s kind of a jackass. This revelation propels Wandee into making a drastic decision, and transform himself from ultra-vanilla to Ultra-spicy, in a desperate attempt to heal his heartbreak and get himself laid.
However, the only person he seems to finds is Yoyak (Great), a Muay Thai boxer the hospital he works for has decided to sponsor (he’s also Wandee’s least favorite patient). While the two didn’t get on in the exam room, they discover that they click quite nicely in the bedroom. Wandee also gets the opportunity to learn why they named him Yoyak – which means giant – and it’s not because he’s so tall.
My favorite character so far is Wandee’s best friend, Plakao (Drake Sattabut Laedeke), who makes it clear from the moment you see him that he is asexual. Laedeke is one of my favorite actors from GMMTV, he’s charming, handsome, and he’s got an incredible range with excellent comedic timing. However, with Plakao, there is a certain sort of softness that I haven’t seen from Laedeke before, which makes this character all the more interesting.
I also would like to point out how happy I am that GMMTV is diversifying their stories with other sexualities. But, they ae not doing so in a way that makes the characters feel gratuitous or like they’re just there to be the token. These portrayals are being written – and performed – with honestly and sincerity. Plakao doesn’t just say he’s asexual, he shows it. He even goes as far as trying to explain to the guy he’s dating that while he still craves emotional connection and even physical touch, he just doesn’t want to have sex, and the guy – of course – doesn’t understand – which is a common – It’s a very touching and honest moment.
But then again, what did I expect? There is a reason Sukkhapisit is one of my favorite directors. Her unique style, characterized by a blend of heartwarming storytelling and diverse representation, is evident in her previous works such as Red Wine in the Dark Night (which she also wrote) and 609 Bedtime Story. She has a way of drawing you in and building a world that’s honest and diverse.
The angelic innocence of In with the devilish sex appeal of Great gives the pair incredible chemistry. Their interactions are a delightful mix of cute, funny, and sometimes even a little raunchy. This dynamic adds depth to the story and keeps viewers eagerly anticipating the next episode. I can’t wait to see where this series goes.
☆☆☆☆☆
More Wandee Goodday soon so…
Stay Tuned!
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