Beauty Newbie (2024)
A transformative Thai drama exploring self-image, friendship, and societal standards. Liu’s journey unfolds on a university campus, revealing authenticity and inner beauty.
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Synopsis
Liu Prima Paspimol is a young girl who has been bullied her whole life because of her appearance. In an attempt to start fresh at university, she undergoes plastic surgery with the goal of looking like a regular student. However, the surgery turns out to be 'too successful', making her incredibly beautiful and drawing unwanted attention when all she wants is to blend in and avoid being bullied. Furthermore, some people begin to mock her for having too many surgical alterations to her face and call her names for having artificial beauty. Guy, the popular campus heartthrob who went to the same middle school as Prima and knows what she looked like before her cosmetic surgery, confronts her about it. He reveals that in middle school he had never held any contempt for Prima because of her looks, unlike many others.
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Editor's Review
A Tale of Transformation and Self-Discovery
Beauty Newbie, a Thai drama adapted from the webtoon “My ID is Gangnam Beauty”, delves into the complexities of self-image, friendship, and societal expectations. Set against the backdrop of a university campus, the series follows the journey of Liu, a young woman who has endured a lifetime of bullying due to her appearance.
Plot Summary: Liu, portrayed by the talented Baifern Pimchanok Luevisadpaibul, decides to undergo plastic surgery to escape the harsh judgments she faces daily. Her transformation not only alters her physical appearance but also opens doors to new friendships. She befriends Faye (Jane Ramida Jiranorraphat), a natural beauty who becomes her first true friend. However, fate takes an unexpected turn when Liu encounters Guy (Win Metawin Opas-iamkajorn), a handsome guy from her past who warns her to be cautious around Faye.
As Liu navigates her new life, she also forms a bond with Saint (Great Sapol Assawamunkong), a graduate student who supports and encourages her. But when circumstances force Liu to reveal her surgical history, she faces backlash from those she considered friends. The drama explores themes of authenticity, acceptance, and the impact of societal beauty standards.
Review: Beauty Newbie succeeds in portraying the emotional turmoil faced by Liu. Here are some key aspects that contribute to its appeal:
- Character Development: Liu’s transformation isn’t just physical; it’s emotional. Viewers witness her growth as she grapples with self-doubt, betrayal, and the desire to be accepted. The characters feel relatable, flawed, and human.
- Friendship Dynamics: The friendship between Liu and Faye is central to the plot. It highlights the complexities of female friendships, including envy, loyalty, and vulnerability. The chemistry between Baifern and Jane adds depth to their characters.
- Romantic Subplots: The love triangle involving Guy and Saint adds intrigue. While Guy’s initial warning creates tension, Saint’s unwavering support provides a refreshing contrast. The romantic arcs are well-balanced and keep viewers engaged.
- Social Commentary: Beauty Newbie subtly critiques society’s obsession with physical appearance. It challenges the notion that beauty equates to worthiness and emphasizes inner qualities over external features.
- Production Quality: The cinematography captures the vibrant university atmosphere, and the soundtrack complements the emotional beats. The pacing keeps viewers invested without unnecessary melodrama.
However, a few areas could be improved:
- Predictability: Some plot developments follow familiar tropes, making certain outcomes foreseeable. A more nuanced approach would enhance the storytelling.
- Secondary Characters: While Liu, Faye, and Saint receive ample screen time, other characters remain underdeveloped. Expanding their arcs would enrich the narrative.
In conclusion, Beauty Newbie offers a heartfelt exploration of identity, self-worth, and the power of genuine connections. It encourages viewers to look beyond appearances and appreciate the beauty within. Whether you’re a fan of romance, drama, or character-driven narratives, this series is worth watching.