Back to the 90s

Back to the 90s is a heart-warming 2015 Thai drama, directed by Yanyong Kuruangkura, that takes viewers on a nostalgic journey into the hallowed era of the 1990s. The film stars celebrated Thai actors Pimchanok Luevisadpaibul, Achita Pramoj Na Ayudhya, and Dan Aaron Ramnarong.

This enchanting film revolves around the life of Kong (Achita Pramoj Na Ayudhya), a young man unsatisfied with his monotonous and humdrum life. Tired of his seemingly unexciting existence, he pines for a more vibrant and fulfilling path. Fate, however, has a surprise waiting just around the corner.

One fateful night, thanks to a mysterious and inexplicable circumstance, Kong receives the unexpected chance to time travel after encountering a magical photo booth. He is thrust into the colorful world of the 1990s, an era of optimism and rapid change. Immersed in this new yet oddly familiar world, he navigates his way through high school life and the vibrant culture of this exciting decade, discovering more about himself in the process.

Achita Pramoj Na Ayudhya gives a compelling performance as Kong, the unassuming and third-dimensional lead who is both overwhelmed and fascinated by the 90s world that he stumbles into. His character flawlessly encapsulates the sense of disillusionment of his contemporary time, while also portraying the awe and wonder as he embarks on this extraordinary journey to a bygone era.

Pimchanok Luevisadpaibul plays Soda, a feisty and spirited teenager who happens to become a significant part of Kong's journey. Luevisadpaibul's portrayal of Soda as a 90s teenager is incredibly authentic; she encapsulates the beauty, strength, and integrity of the young women of that time.

The film brilliantly portrays the stark contrast between the era Kong is stuck in and the 90s, with its bubble gum pop, colorful fashion, and changing social dynamics. All the more, the soundtrack, full of tunes from the 90s, enhances the viewer's immersion into the era.

As Kong's journey unfolds, Back to the 90s invites the audience to reflect on their own lives and the choices they've made. Through laughter and tears, the movie subtly explores thought-provoking themes such as youth, friendship, self-discovery, and the weight of decisions. Notably, all of these themes are carefully interwoven with the concept of time-travel, giving the movie a unique edge and captivating viewers till the very end.

The cinematography is commendable, perfectly capturing the essence of the quintessential Thai 90s era, its landscapes, and daily life. The use of colors, lighting, and other visual elements throughout the movie simultaneously provide a nostalgic trip down memory lane for some viewers and serve as a charming history lesson for others.

What is most striking about the film is its deft balance between the magical and the mundane. While the plot centers around an extraordinary event, the essence of the film lies in its exploration of ordinary human emotions and experiences, which makes it highly relatable for viewers.

While Back to the 90s is primarily about revisiting the past, it is not only about reminiscing the good old days. It invites viewers to explore the impact of choices, the value of experiences, and the importance of cherishing the present. It is a movie that offers an emotional roller coaster ride, imbued with love, laughter, heartbreak, self-realization, friendship, and a hearty dose of nostalgia.

In a nutshell, Back to the 90s is a memorable movie, sure to leave an impression on anyone who enjoys an emotional yet uplifting tale. It is an invitation back in time, but also a reminder to cherish the here and now. Beautifully acted, creatively directed, and cleverly written, the film is a pieced-together quilt of love, loss, learning, and laughing that is ultimately the story of life itself. Back to the 90s is a movie that strikes the heartstrings and resonates with viewers of any age, proving that no matter the difficulties, life is an outstanding journey filled with countless surprises.