Still Water (2026)

Darker and intriguing, but lacking intensity.

When it comes to Thai thrillers, few are bold enough to push the envelope. However, "Still Water" makes a strong impression with its unflinching murder mystery that showcases plenty of gore and graphic content. This bold choice sets this series apart from other Thai thriller dramas, as it adds a layer of intensity to the story. While it has all the right ingredients for a thrilling murder mystery, it struggles to deliver the suspense and tension that would elevate it to the next level.

One of the standout features of this series is the setting. From the first episode, this series captivates with its eerie and atmospheric backdrop. The geographical isolation, the haunting jungle, and the quaint small town all contribute to the overall sense of unease and mystery. The cinematography and sound design enhance the tension, drawing viewers into the world of the series. Performance-wise, all cast did a great job, but I don't think anyone particularly shines. However, I think this is probably one of the most challenging roles Punpun Suttata has ever portrayed. She delivers Pin's struggles from PTSD so well.

Despite its promising premise and impressive setting, this series falls short in one crucial aspect: storytelling. While it excels in establishing complex characters and the inclusion of LGBTQ+ storyline is nicely done without overshadowing the main plot, the heavy focus on the characters' arcs and the deliberately ambiguous subplots leaves the core mystery feeling a bit lackluster. There are too many stories to highlight, it feels quite crammed. As a result, the pacing of the series suffers, and the 'whodunit' elements feel diluted and unsatisfying. The intensity is not intensifying. As much I like the ending, I think the identity of the killer and the motive could be revealed sooner rather than toward at the end of the last episode.

Overall, "Still Water" is an interesting thriller to watch for its dark vibe, the performance and the issues it highlights. However, the intense visuals and great performances cannot fully compensate for the lack of a tightly woven and suspenseful storyline. as it hinders the series potential to be a truly great and unforgettable thriller. For viewers looking for something with solid suspense buildup, this series might be a bit of a letdown.

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