Pee Mak

Pee Mak is a Thai comedy horror film released in 2013 that became a massive hit not just in its home country but across Asia as well. Helmed by renowned director Banjong Pisanthanakun, this thrilling and entertaining cinematic piece incorporates elements of comedy, horror, and romance into a unique narrative based on a famous Thai folklore, Mae Nak Phra Khanong. The film boasts an all-star cast led by heartthrob Mario Maurer alongside the exceptionally talented Davika Hoorne, and supported by a comedic ensemble of Nattapong Chartpong, Pongsatorn Jongwilak, Wiwat Kongrasri, and Kantapat Permpoonpatcharasuk.

Set during the early Rattanakosin Dynasty period in Thailand, the story revolves around Pee Mak (Mario Maurer) who is drafted into the army leaving behind his heavily pregnant wife Nak (Davika Hoorne) at home in the village of Phra Khanong. While away at war, Nak dies during childbirth along with her newborn son, yet their spirits continue to coexist in their home and go unnoticed by the oblivious villagers.

Upon returning from the war, Mak is ecstatic to be reunited with his wife and meet his newborn son, Dang, for the first time, completely unaware of what had happened while he was away. Enjoying what he thinks is a happy life, Pee Mak's world is rocked when four of his comrades from the war – Ter (Nattapong Chartpong), Shin (Pongsatorn Jongwilak), Aey (Wiwat Kongrasri), and Puak (Kantapat Permpoonpatcharasuk) – arrive in Phra Khanong and begin to notice strange occurrences surrounding Nak and Dang.

As opposed to most horror films, Pee Mak maintains a bright and light atmosphere, using comedic sequences to create an entertaining balance between the comedic and the spooky. The film powerfully showcases the bond of friendship as Mak’s friends try to navigate the terrors they face while attempting to convince him of his wife's supernatural state, placing their camaraderie and unity at odds with eerie, chilling situations.

Mario Maurer's charismatic portrayal of the ever-trusting and loving husband, Pee Mak, is worth applauding, as is Davika Hoorne's performance as Nak, seamlessly swinging between the endearing wife and the terrifying ghost. Nattapong Chartpong and the rest of the supporting cast provide a hearty dose of humor, which is instrumental in lightening the mood and contributing to the film’s broader appeal.

Pee Mak offers a fresh approach to the horror-comedy genre, wrapping it with elements of romance and friendship that genuinely set it apart. The film's retelling of the infamous Mae Nak folklore is different from the many versions that have preceded it. Ignoring the conventional structure and expected narrative arcs Paysanatankun’s rendition of this classic tale proves to be a surprising and enlightening venture. It explores the nuances of love, loss and betrayal all while keeping the audience rooted to their seats with laughter, suspense, and occasional screams.

Pisanthanakun’s expert storytelling devices, like the highly effective use of music and sound effects, typical Thai architecture, and costumes to create suspense, make viewers feel a part of the quaint village settings. The film's beautiful cinematography adds to the setting's vibrancy and richness and manages to capture the viewers' attention, making them feel embedded in the narrative.

In closing, Pee Mak is not your conventional horror film. It blends elements of horror, laughter, love, friendship, and fear, providing audiences with a rollercoaster of emotions. This cinematic piece explores a deep understanding of relationships while embracing the tonal shifts required to sustain a horror-comedy ambiance effectively. Its break from traditional horror storytelling may surprise some, but it’s clear that its success and appeal to a broad audience marks this film as one that shouldn't be missed. Whether you're a fan of horror, comedy, or folklore-themed movies, Pee Mak promises to provide a memorable and thrilling spectacle.