Inspired by the once popular manga, Kaikan Phrase, the new movie by Insects in the Backyard director Thanawin Sukhaphisit tells the story of Noona (Saipan Apinya Sakuljaroensuk), a hardcore fan of J-rock frontman Makoto (played by himself), whose dreams of stardom come true when she’s selected to play the female lead in his new music video. At the same time, we see her close friends getting involved in a complicated web of romances while Noona lives the high life with Makoto’s band, TRICK. Ultimately, she must decide whether to continue the fairytale fantasy existence with Makato, or return to her down-to-earth old friends. 

 

Although Fin Sugoi looks like just another mainstream Thai teen rom-com with a young cast of heartthrobs, there are a few things that give the film a little more substance. Saipan already proved herself a credible actress, both in her debut, Ploy, as well as the recent, controversial episode of Club Friday the Series, and does another decent job here, portraying genuine emotion in what is easily the best-scripted role in the movie. Likewise, some of the minor characters are entertaining enough, throwing in a few passable moments of comedy, and the cinematography also shows flashes of inspiration (despite some questionably creative scene transitions, switching back and forth from past to present). 

 

That said, there is a lot more about Fin Sugoi that’s problematic. The storyline is uninspired, and the romances feel overdone. Love scenes, whether gay or straight, contribute nothing to either the plot or character development and lack any real emotion. Without enough time to properly develop, none of these relationships have anything that might properly engage an audience, and play second fiddle to a patronizing amount of commercial tie-ins. At no point during the 120-minute runtime are you ever in doubt as to who’s sponsoring the movie. 

 

As Fin Sugoi closes with the overly literal narrator spouting something about forgiving, forgetting and living happily ever after, we’re left thinking it’s all a bit too neat given the chaotic web that’s been spun up to that point. 

 

Watch this film if you’re feeling a bit bored and want something entertaining. Watch it if you fancy one of the cast members. But despite a director with some decent past credentials, you’ll not find a lot more than another teen flick starring popular celebrities designed to please the fan girls. And given Makoto’s marginalized role, even they won’t find much to love.