He is a skilled producer and director who clearly understands the game and Thai drama audiences well. Wut Atsadawut Luangsuntorn Recently, he gave an interview to Thairath Entertainment discussing the direction of the Thai drama industry and addressing fans' curiosity about whether there will be a sequel to the legendary drama "Ok Thoranee." He said,
"Actually, the original was by Khun Cherd Songsri and ended as planned, but there is room for imagination. The characters' stories concluded in the agreed episodes, but life itself goes on, revolving with time. It's interesting, so maybe there could be a sequel."
He was asked how he views Thai people's continued affinity for this drama style.
"I've always thought that way. Since starting to work with Channel 7 and Khun Daeng, we realize people like art films and Korean series, but ultimately Thai viewers—if food is an analogy—prefer flavors suited to Thai tastes. We can't eat kimchi every meal, but we can have Thai basil stir-fry every day. We need to keep the Thai flavor and style, though occasionally having special meals like pizza is fine. But changing to pizza every day would be tiring for Thais.
So dramas or series are the same. The visuals and delivery methods may change, using new camera lenses or technology for better quality, but the flavor must still appeal to Thai audiences. It has to be a series with Thai sensibility."
What about the term "soap opera" that people often use? What is your view?
"Oh, it seems like chasing trends. Nowadays, news is so fast it’s hard to keep up—this one lies repeatedly, someone stirs up buzz, one story ends and another begins, it's hard to follow."
Is the story in dramas just a fraction of real life?
"Exactly. Today, apps like TikTok capture real-life moments vividly and authentically. The challenge for series or drama creators now is to make their work as real as TikTok, which films actual life. So actors must perform naturally, without acting. This is a difficult new challenge for directors. Some traditional elements may remain, but as times change, we must adapt. It's hard—you can't be slow and boring; you need to captivate viewers within 3 seconds. It's a tough but exciting challenge."
Besides working with One31 channel, will there be projects with other channels?
"Currently, I'm seeking new knowledge about where the world is going, looking at trends like boys' love series and vertical-format dramas. I'm trying to open opportunities to learn. Ultimately, whether funding comes from others or self-investment, the business model must suit the circumstances and timing."
. Click to readEntertainment newsMore