Once again, Netflix brings us a delightful offering from Thailand, showcasing the ever-evolving and vibrant creative landscape of the country.
While you may have encountered the term 6ixtynin9 in various playful contexts, let’s set aside any preconceived notions, as it is the title of the show under scrutiny today.
6ixtynin9: The Series aims to present an intriguing blend of crime and comedy, a combination that might initially raise an eyebrow or two.
However, it holds the promise of delivering deadpan humor and thought-provoking moments in equal measure.
Comprising a concise six episodes with a runtime of just under five hours, this series is a reincarnation of the 1999 Thai film 6ixtynin9, which also bore the directorial signature of Pen-Ek Ratanaruang.
6ixtynin9: The Series Synopsis
Toom is disappointed with life after she is laid off from work and wants to give up. However, a knock on the door changes her life as she receives a parcel full of Cash.
Before she can plan her next move, the owners of the package pay her a visit and an uncanny chain of events follows with different characters entering the scene.
The show is directed by Pen-Ek Ratanaruang and stars Davika Hoorne (Toom) in the lead with Amorneak Micheli, Apivich Rinthpoln, Thanaporn Rattanasasiwimon, Trisanu Soranun, Pruet Nakprad, and others playing scattered roles.
What Works for 6ixtynin9: The Series?
At first glance, the premise may not seem groundbreaking—a windfall of cash unexpectedly falls into the lap of someone in dire need.
In the landscape of creative works in 2023, this concept may appear well-trodden, but it’s in the execution where the series truly distinguishes itself.
6ixtynin9: The Series packages this suspense in an airtight container, never relinquishing its grip on your attention.
The show’s writing is nothing short of exceptional, meticulously tending to every thread of mystery and seamlessly tying up loose ends as the story unfolds.
It pushes the boundaries of imagination, delivering scenarios you might have thought could only exist in your mind.
The blend of subtle comedy with crime is sensationally compelling. Several elements are hidden and you are tasked with reacting to them naturally, which is a movie buff’s paradise.
Speaking of paradise, 6ixtynin9: The Series also brings to life the place where people go after death in an entertaining manner.
No punchlines are overcooked. Drama in the show is limited. And you have the absolute privilege of witnessing a screenplay that is uniquely stimulating.
Picture a world where everyone plays the role of the villain—6ixtynin9: The Series brings this intriguing dynamic to life.
Every moment spent anticipating the next frame is a testament to its worth.
All the suspense and mystery are crafted adroitly to complement the platonic shifts in the storyline.
Moreover, the makers have kept unnecessary drama at bay. And emotional scenes never overpower the overall narration.
Traits of dark comedy are effective as goofiness alone cannot sustain for five hours.
Furthermore, the makers of 6ixtynin9: The Series have utilized all the characters quite well unlike the recently released Brazilian series, Reporting for Duty.
How are the Performances?
Davika Hoorne plays Toom in 6ixtynin9: The Series. She delivers a quiet yet effective performance. Her grayish personality adds the right touch to the tale.
Interestingly, she doesn’t focus too much on the expressions. Her eye rolls and long face are enough to enchant the viewers.
She effortlessly portrays a character who is amiable, innocent, and composed, precisely the traits needed for crafting nuanced, gray-shaded personalities.
The supporting cast also deserves accolades. Despite their limited screen time, each member leaves an indelible mark.
It’s not their names or faces that you’ll remember, but the sheer proficiency with which they inhabit their roles.
What Doesn’t Work for 6ixtynin9: The Series?
Let’s address the elephant in the room—the pacing. Narratively, “6ixtynin9: The Series” can be described as nothing short of glacial.
At times, it crawls along at a snail’s pace, threatening to lull you into a deep slumber.
Fortunately, the strength of the story manages to reel you back in, prompting you to consider switching to 1.5x speed.
Surprisingly, this acceleration doesn’t detract from the creators’ artistic vision; it might even make you feel like the series is still operating at its intended pace.
Should You Stream or Skip 6ixtynin9: The Series?
Absolutely. I wholeheartedly recommend this Thai gem for its delightful dose of goofiness.
