Did you say an action-comedy about a marriage between a human and a ghost?
The Red Envelope; the Thai adaptation of the Taiwanese blockbuster: ‘Marry My Dead Body’, featuring Billkin (Putthipong Assaratanakul) and PP Krit (Krit Amnuaydechkorn) is ready to delve into supernatural, LGBTQ+ relationships with a twist.
This all starts when Menn (Billkin), a super straight and homophobic thief-turned-police-informant, accidentally picks up a mysterious red envelope, binding himself to a marriage contract to wed a ghost named Titi (PP Krit), who coincidentally is a loud and proud gay man. The contrast between the two sparks endless laughter and trouble. To free himself from this nightmare, Menn must uncover the truth behind Titi’s death and is forced on an unusual mission.
As a fan of both the original Taiwanese film and the two lead Thai actors; I was super excited since the news of this adaptation was announced. I have followed Billkin and PP Krit through some outstanding works and had no doubts about the quality that they’d deliver in The Red Envelope.
Directed by Chayanop Boonprakob, the Thai remake incorporates a lot of fresh and entertainment Thai aspects, giving a very new twist, whilst staying true to the original story. It was a lot of fun spotting the changes that were made which were refreshing, hilarious and heartfelt, with some touching and important life messages about family, love, tradition, social prejudice, and death.
As expected, the chemistry between Billkin and PP Krit as Menn and Titi is outstanding. The shift in demeanour and trust between the actors really shines through. The comedy is outrageous and cheesy but are all part of the magic and fun. Menn’s journey to learn about himself and the evolution of the LGBTQ+ community through walking in Titi’s shoes is heartwarming and filled with laughter. Billkin once again showing his ability to quickly adapt between emotions, displaying his versatility. On the other hand, Titi finding resolve in his life tugged at my heartstrings.
I also really love the fact that both lead actors fully contributed to the original soundtrack of The Red Envelope. Their portrays are already fantastic, but the music for the film is amazing, with their input really adding a personalised touch. There’s just so many pleasing and stirring tracks, I couldn’t help but add them to my playlist after watching this movie!
The Red Envelope contains the perfect balance of every emotion. It’s an absurd supernatural comedy that really makes you reflect about the true issues in everyday society. Growing up in a traditional Chinese family, there are many stereotypes and prejudices I have experienced that I believe need to change. Menn and Titi’s journey of personal growth blended with heart and humour, forces you to ponder about life’s progression and how it’s important to include your family, friends and those around you to move forward in the direction of acceptance and change.
Despite its silliness, fun, and the vast amount of laughter that it conjures in between, The Red Envelope is vibrant, refreshing, expertly entertaining and will you with that warm fuzzy feeling at the end of the day.
The Red Envelope is in cinemas now.