Summary of “Bad Genius” by Nattawut Poonpiriya
One-line summary:
“Bad Genius” is a thrilling heist film directed by Nattawut Poonpiriya, which follows a group of high school students as they devise an elaborate cheating scheme during their exams.
Main cast and crew:
- Director: Nattawut Poonpiriya
- Writer: Tanida Hantaweewatana
- Key actors: Chutimon Chuengcharoensukying as Lynn, Eisaya Hosuwan as Grace, Teeradon Supapunpinyo as Bank, Chanon Santinatornkul as Pat
- Music director: Vichaya Vatanasapt
- Director of photography: Phaklao Jiraungkoonkun
- Producers: Jira Maligool, Vanridee Pongsittisak, Chenchonnanee Soonthonsaratul
Plot:
“Bad Genius” centers around Lynn, a brilliant high school student who comes from a modest background. When she is offered a scholarship to study abroad, she realizes that her family cannot afford the expenses. Determined to find a way to fund her education, Lynn devises an intricate cheating scheme with the help of her classmates, Bank and Grace.
The trio forms an alliance where Lynn provides the answers during exams, Bank photographs the test papers, and Grace acts as a messenger to deliver the answers to other students. As their operation becomes more complex, they face numerous challenges and risks, including the threat of expulsion and the constant pressure of maintaining their grades.
As Lynn’s ambitions grow, she becomes entangled in a web of lies and deceit, jeopardizing her relationships with her friends and family. The film explores the moral dilemmas faced by the characters as they navigate the consequences of their actions and the price they are willing to pay for success.
Themes and motifs:
“Bad Genius” delves into themes of ambition, morality, and the pressures of academic success. The film questions the education system’s emphasis on grades and the lengths students are willing to go to achieve them. It also explores the ethical boundaries individuals are willing to cross in pursuit of their goals and the impact of their choices on their personal relationships.
The motif of deception is prevalent throughout the film, highlighting the characters’ struggles with maintaining their integrity while succumbing to the allure of success. The movie also examines the socioeconomic disparities that exist within the education system, as Lynn’s financial circumstances drive her to engage in cheating.
Reception and legacy:
Upon its release, “Bad Genius” received critical acclaim for its gripping storyline, strong performances, and social commentary. The film won numerous awards, including Best Feature Film at the Thailand National Film Association Awards and the New York Asian Film Festival’s Audience Award. It was also nominated for Best Film at the Asian Film Awards.
“Bad Genius” has left a lasting impact on cinema, not only in Thailand but also internationally. Its success led to a Chinese adaptation and a television series. The film’s exploration of the pressures faced by students resonated with audiences worldwide, sparking discussions about the education system and the lengths individuals go to achieve success.
Recommendation:
“Bad Genius” is a must-watch film for fans of thrilling heist movies and thought-provoking dramas. Its engaging plot, strong performances, and social commentary make it a standout film in the genre. The movie’s exploration of ambition, morality, and the education system will leave viewers contemplating the lengths they would go to achieve their goals.
Memorable quote:
“Cheating is not wrong if everyone else is doing it.” – Lynn
