The Believers (2024) s01e03 Episode Script
We found you lost
[electronic music playing]
[Game laughing] Not okay. Next.
- Please repeat after me.
- [Game] Let me see.
Hey, this one seems promising.
Ten, twenty, thirty, forty
Monks love riding a car.
Monks love riding a boat.
[rap chanting] Anicca vata sankhara.
Conditioned things are impermanent
[Game] Pass.
Forced love is like
a pair of shoes that are
too tight and uncomfortable for your feet.
[monk] But good love is like
a comfortable pair of shoes,
which are
Carlos shoes.
- Hold on. What the fuck is this?
- [music stops]
An IG model?
Let's stop for now.
Let's start with eliminating
some of these choices.
[Game] Let's eliminate the ones
who don't seem okay first.
PAWI GREEN TEA
This one, out.
But the rest shouldn't be too old.
We should target younger people.
But we can't choose someone too young
because they aren't admirable.
- Hey, we've got one.
- [Game] Hmm?
Monk Dong-Won, half Thai and Korean.
This type is trendy now.
This one?
- Do we have any clips of him?
- Here.
I'll find one.
Annyeonghaseyo.
Greetings. I'm a foreign monk.
Hey.
- [Monk Dong-Won] I was born in Korea.
- Oppa.
[relax music playing]
In a city where there is no Buddhism.
But the truth is
regardless of where we were born,
we can all be a Dharma successor.
Which temple does he reside in? And
What's his price?
[Dear] Umm
Dharma Niwet Sawat Forest Temple.
If we're going for a monk this famous,
we need to prepare a good deal.
We have no time left.
It's almost time we pay our debt.
We should get him for now.
[Game] I'm fine with him. You?
You're coming with me, Game.
- Dear, you take care of the flea market.
- Okay.
Will we make it back
before my sister's delivery?
Of course. Just for a few days.
Okay.
[electronic music playing]
Hey. We're here.
[Game sighs]
- [woman 1] Take this one.
- [Dear] Okay.
- How much is it?
- [woman 1] It's 120.
[Dear] So, there's going to be
a flea market at Phummaram Temple.
If you want to sell pomelos there,
call this number.
- This number?
- That's right.
[monk preaching]
Holy smokes.
So many people.
If you're interested,
you can call the number down there.
[woman 2] Sure.
Hello?
[Pui] Hello, Dear. It's me, Pui.
- Do you remember me?
- Oh, Pui. What's up?
[Pui] Hey, so
- [Win's mom] Dear?
- [Pui] I'm getting married.
[Monk Dong-Won] You are Buddhists.
You must know
what the Four Noble Truths are, right?
Suffering, the cause of suffering,
the end of suffering, and the path.
Good. You're good at memorizing.
[people laughing]
[Monk Dong-Waon] The teachings
of Lord Buddha
Fuck, we can't get in.
ADMINISTRATIVE UNI
Wait. Be right back.
[Game] Excuse me.
- Hello.
- Hello.
What do I have to do
if I want to meet Monk Dong-Won?
You can't make a booking now, dear.
People made their bookings
months in advance.
Is there any way to squeeze me in?
The thing is,
I'd like to make donations to the temple.
[chuckles]
- There.
- Yes?
That group over there
has booked us for the whole week.
Why did it take so long?
I found a way for us
to meet Monk Dong-Won.
Over there.
[sermon listeners] Sadhu.
[bell chimes]
[Thai country song playing on TV]
By the way, Dear,
have you talked to Win at all?
Yes, sometimes.
What has he been doing lately?
Do you know?
[Win's mom] He doesn't tell me
about things.
I see.
You get prettier the more you grow up.
[chuckles] Has Win ever hit on you?
- Win doesn't know how to flirt.
- Is that so?
[TV host] The votes are unanimous.
Two hundred-time champion.
See? I knew it.
[woman] No one has been able
to take him down.
He's tough. Do you know
he's signing a contract with a label?
[woman] He's my new favorite one.
- [man] Shit. I'm leaving.
- [woman] Just go.
[TV host] 200 times in Thailand
in this competition of
Incredible. Tell us how you feel.
[man] I feel pretty excited
[joyful music playing]
- I'll get braised fish maw.
- I'll get Nam Phrik Long Ruea.
- Hello, sisters.
- Hi there.
I bought you some drinks.
I saw you sitting up there for so long,
thought you might be thirsty.
- [woman 1] You're so sweet.
- Thank you.
My name is Game. It's my first time here.
How did you know about this place?
My sister recommended this place to me.
She wanted me to come
and listen to his sermon,
so I came and I was very impressed.
- He preaches so well.
- Yes.
He's kind and good at preaching.
He's very good.
[Grace] I don't want to show you.
You didn't come.
Sis, I'm sorry.
[music fades]
I'm really caught up with work. Please
I'm begging you.
Let me see my niece's face. Please?
Fine.
Well? Is she cute?
Wow!
So how was the labor?
It was okay, nothing out of ordinary.
But my belly still hurts
and I felt a bit dizzy.
Then you should get some rest.
And don't force yourself to work. Got it?
All right. Okay.
I've got work in the morning. Bye.
[Grace] Okay, bye.
Bye, niece. Bye.
[sighs]
[lighter clicks]
[text beeping]
HI, I'M GAME. NICE TO MEET YOU.
MONK DONG-WON WILL GIVE SERMON AT 7AM
- [Win] Hey.
- Hmm?
- Got toothpaste?
- In my bag.
- Oh.
- [Game] Um.
Why are you smiling?
Because I got into the temple's VIP group.
The aunties said we could meet
Monk Dong-Won after his sermon.
What time's the alarm?
Well, they said to be there at eight, so
What would be good? Seven?
So freaking early.
- I'm not taking a shower tomorrow.
- [Game] Okay.
[monks chanting in Pali] The Dhamma is
well elaborated by the Exalted One.
I pay homage to the Dhamma.
The Sangha, the Blessed One's disciples
Did we get here on time?
I pay homage to the Sangha
Venerable Sir,
we request the Three Refuges
and the Five Precepts
For the second time,
May we, O Venerable Sir
Where'd the oppa go?
[whispering] Check the group chat.
[monks chanting in the background]
Shit, I forgot to turn off
airplane mode. Fuck.
You idiot.
Fuck.
Monk Dong-Won went to Bangkok
for a TV show.
[sighs]
Let's go. I told them
we'd meet them in Bangkok.
- Hold on.
- What?
So who are these people here for?
How am I supposed to know?
Let's go.
All right.
Rest your mind. Stay conscious.
[relax music playing]
Someone once asked the Lord Buddha,
"If you were to make your teachings
as short as possible, what would you say?"
He said only one sentence,
"The heart of all the teachings is
we shouldn't hold on to Dharma."
When our minds want to hear a sermon,
do they suffer?
The minds that want to make merit,
make alms offerings,
and make robe offerings to monks,
do they suffer?
If those are burdens to the mind,
then it will suffer.
When it's lost, it will suffer.
The soul will relax.
It's hard to recognize the attachment
to goodness. Are moral precepts good?
[monk] What about meditation? Is it good?
Yes, it is.
What about wisdom? Is it good?
Yes, it is.
They are all good.
It's easy to put down bad things,
but it's hard to put down good things.
We have moral precepts
as our tools to get into meditation.
We have meditation to enhance our wisdom.
So, we won't hold on
to the moral precepts,
we won't hold on to the meditation,
or even wisdom.
If we pray
and focus on adhering to the wisdom,
our minds will be distracted
and not peaceful.
But we need moral, meditation, and wisdom
to attain the path to nirvana.
And if our meditation, wisdom,
and morals are complete,
the path to nirvana will appear by itself.
Holy shit. He got me good.
ASMR.
What's that?
Let's go with him.
[theme music playing]
THE BELIEVERS
[Game] Hey.
Do you agree that he preaches
much better than Monk Dong-Won?
Make a deal.
Okay.
After I take a dump.
[Win] Grandma.
Let me help you carry that.
Do you walk here every day?
[woman] Not every day.
There are too many people these days.
I can't fight with the crowd.
I only come on some days
Monk Dol gives his sermon.
- Is he the one who gave a sermon just now?
- Right.
Were you listening?
It's good that a youngster like you
visits the temple.
But his sermons are really good.
[clearing throat]
Why do you like Monk Dol?
Well, how should I put it?
His teachings are both easy
and difficult.
He focuses on letting people
practice it themselves.
He once thought of building
a Dharma retreat pavilion,
but the construction
has been halted for many years.
I guess the temple
doesn't have enough budget.
What kind of pavilion?
WIN IS INVITING YOU TO THE MEETING
[ringing]
Hey. You guys've been gone for a while.
We have changed the monk.
How come?
This one works better,
but we need something.
[tense music playing]
[Win] The monk
we're inviting is into practices.
Remember Tang said
temples must be built slowly
so people can take their time
making merit?
I think this project will be the
start of our fundraising
and convince this monk
to come to our temple.
Look at this space. I think
a Dharma retreat pavilion would fit here.
The temple's mood and tone fit the idea
of minimal pavilion you wanted to do.
It's a nice idea.
There are a lot of trees too.
Here.
We are going to
trade a pavilion for Monk Dol.
[Win] We'll build duo pavilions,
make it parallel to the one at our temple,
make it a coordinated project.
This'll help us win over temples that are
trying to encourage people to practice.
If everyone's on board, I'll ask
the aunties for the abbot's contact.
Can you draw a rough plan of the pavilion?
I need it to talk to the abbot.
- Okay, give me the location.
- Send it tomorrow.
Okay, I guess?
[music stops]
Okay, bye.
Dear.
Here are my design samples
of your wedding card. Have a look
and tell me which one you like.
Which one do you like?
Umm
I'll go with the design you like.
Can you oversee the setup of my wedding?
The one the hotel sent me sucks.
But I've never worked on
a wedding setup before.
It's okay. You can have your first tryout
with my wedding.
I trust you.
- Really?
- Just do it.
[woman] Excuse me, sir.
Could you please come this way?
Sure.
This way.
You said you'd never
fall in love again after Toh.
Hey, we don't have to
always stay true to our word.
What an asshole.
[both laughing]
So, what do you do now?
I'm working with a friend.
Who?
Win.
Win?
Which Win?
Win Peerapat.
Win Peerapat from Class Five?
What? Are you still with him?
Holy shit. What an eternal love.
Love, my ass.
Come on. Everyone at school knew.
We're just friends, bitch.
If you say so.
So, will you help me with the setup?
Fine, I'll do it.
[sighs]
I'm so relieved to have you work it.
Let's continue looking.
[relax music playing]
I heard from Waew.
Are you guys here to ordain?
Oh, no, Father. We're not going to ordain.
Umm.
What is it do you want?
You see, we have been entrusted
by the abbot of Phummaram Temple
to renovate it in order to
attract the younger generation,
so they can get better access to Dharma.
Right.
But I have to be honest with you.
No matter what we do,
the youngsters can't get into Dharma,
but then we found this temple
and Monk Dol.
What? Monk Dol?
Well, I'd never thought
that a monk like Monk Dol
would be able to strike
Dharma into my heart like that.
That's why we want to build this.
It's a Dharma retreat pavilion
with teachings aligning
with the ones of Phummaram Temple.
In other words,
we want to build a twin pavilion.
I'm going to call this project
"Merit Baskets."
We need a representative
from this temple to spread the teachings
and set up the project
in the initial phase.
What do you think?
Um
This project seems interesting,
but it's a matter of forest
versus city temples.
It's not appropriate
for a forest temple monk
to stay at a city temple
because each temple has its own practices.
Well, you don't need to worry about that.
We'll take good care of Monk Dol.
And we'll escort him back here before
Buddhist Lent Day.
Are you guys really determined to do this?
Yes.
Then you should go and ask him.
Let him make his own decision.
Okay, Father.
Well then, we'll get going.
I'm sorry,
but I have to decline your offer.
I just think it would be inappropriate
to abandon this temple.
But I can see you have good intentions.
What you're planning to do
is a very good thing.
What do you have issue with?
If people really want to practice,
coming here may help them gain
more knowledge and understanding.
What about those
who can't afford to do so?
[sighs]
I've been ordained here
since I was a novice.
I've never been to any other temples.
I've always been here.
And most importantly,
the practices of each temple
are different.
Well, you can practice
whichever way you're comfortable with.
And if you need anything,
we'll prepare it for you.
Then I would be bothering you.
I shouldn't bother or trouble anyone.
No, we wouldn't be troubled at all.
Venerable Brother,
anything we do to promote Buddhism
is considered a good thing, isn't it?
I want the elders at Phummaram Temple
to have a chance to listen to your sermon.
We've talked to the abbot.
He has no problem with this.
And personally, I think that
whether you're a forest or a city monk,
you're all under
the refuge of Lord Buddha.
There's no need for segregation.
There are many people
who want to access the teachings,
but they don't have a chance to
because they don't live here.
When we listened to your sermon that day,
we thought our Dharma retreat pavilion
project would fill this gap.
I want the teachings of Lord Buddha
to be spread even further.
Wouldn't you agree?
Let's just say that
I understand your purpose now.
[music stops]
What's that supposed to mean?
Do I look like a monk to you?
[indistinct chattering]
MERIT-MAKING BOOTH
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
Let's go and meet
the abbot at the pavilion.
[indistinct chattering continues]
[Game] Hey.
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
FLOWERS INCENSE CANDLES
[Game] Hey, White Girl.
Let's greet the abbot.
Hi there.
It's "namaskar" when greeting a monk.
- Sorry.
- [Win] Please come this way.
[Thai country song playing
in the background]
Namaskar, Venerable Father.
Bless you.
I would like to stay
at this temple for three months.
Please consider approving my request.
Um.
But you must adjust yourself
in many ways if you stay here.
Are you up for that?
Yes.
Um.
From now on,
I'll leave this temple to you.
If many people come here
to make merit and do good deeds,
then that's a good thing.
Yes, Father.
Excuse me.
May I have you check out
the retreat pavilion's construction site?
MAKE A CONTRIBUTION TO THE CONSTRUCTION
OF A DHARMA RETREAT PAVILION
PHUMARAM TEMPLE
AND DHARMA NIWET SAWAT TEMPLE
So, this is where
the retreat pavilion will be built.
And this is where the gable will be.
It will be facing
the Dharma Niwet Sawat Forest Temple,
which fits our concept of "Merit Baskets".
Do as you see fit.
Alright. As for the
entire list of materials,
I'll show you the specifications later.
Now, let me take you
Let me invite you to come this way.
MAKE A CONTRIBUTION TO THE CONSTRUCTION
OF A DHARMA RETREAT PAVILION
[Thai country song playing on speakers]
Please welcome our next contestant
for the folk song singing contest.
Dome!
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE INVITES YOU
TO VISIT, TASTE, WATCH AND SHOP
AT THE FESTIVAL FROM 9-15 OF JULY
JOIN IN THE BIG MERIT-MAKING EVEN
[audience clapping and cheering]
[man singing Thai country song]
Hot damn. That dude is so sick.
Seriously though,
Dear's ideas are freaking good.
So many people came. Look around.
Would you like to ask me anything
No, I'm good.
Alright, then.
There's a flea market
and a singing contest today.
Do you want to try out?
I can't. It's against the sila.
I see.
Sorry.
This is Note.
- He'll escort you to your residence.
- Namaskar.
[song fades]
[relax music playing]
[Monk Dol chanting] The Blessed One
who fully attained enlightenment.
The teaching that has been expounded well.
The disciples
who have been practicing diligently.
The Buddha, The Dhamma, The Sangha.
You're leaving so early.
Aren't you going with us later?
I want to explore other routes.
I see. Please go ahead.
Okay. Please turn left this time.
- Left, please. Looking good.
- [music stops]
Look at the camera. Yes.
A bit to the left. Just a little. Yes.
Alright. Please look back at the camera.
Please smile a little. Just relax.
Alright.
Smile and relax. Smile.
[shutter clicking]
Well?
These look great.
No more Monk Dong-Won?
No, not anymore.
Hey, but this one does look admirable.
I know, right?
I thought it was just me.
Let's say I'm not charging you
for this set.
- What? Seriously?
- Take it as my contribution.
Wow, I rejoice in your merit. Sadhu.
Thank you.
- I'll get back to work.
- Sure. Thank you.
[joyful music playing]
COME AND LISTEN TO A SERMON
COME AND LISTEN TO A SERMON
BY MONK DONG-WON WIDHURO
COME AND LISTEN TO A SERMON
BY MONK DOL SANTAJITTO
"WE HAVE MORALS AS TOOLS
TO GET INTO MEDITATION
WE NEED MEDITATION TO ENHANCE OUR WISDOM"
MONK DOL SANTAJITTO
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
A SERMON BY MONK DOL SANTAJITTO
[on speakers] Greetings,
ladies and gentlemen.
You're invited to a sermon
[laughs]
by a monk from Hat Yai.
Monk Dol, a new monk
with a great face and voice.
He can resonate with people of all ages.
The sermon is at 5 p.m. I repeat, 5 p.m.
Those who come to practice Dharma
[chanting] Homage to the Blessed One,
the Worthy One, the Self-Awakened One.
Homage to the Blessed One,
the Worthy One, the Self-Awakened One.
[Game] Hey, when he's finished chanting.
Let's start shooting.
the Self-Awakened One.
[Monk Dol] I've come here today
to give a Dharma talk.
Please put your hands down.
Sit in a comfortable position.
Buddhism
is a complex religion.
[relax music playing]
You must practice it by yourself.
TIKTOK LIVE
But most people
only focus on making wishes
and rely on holy things,
never think of relying on themselves.
However, Buddhism teaches us
to rely on ourselves
- train ourselves
- Excuse me.
What do you think about his sermon?
It's pretty good.
Honestly,
I don't understand everything,
but his voice is vibrant and pleasing.
Listening to him makes me feel relaxed.
Also
He's pretty handsome. I like him.
[chuckles]
Since you've heard the teachings,
I want you to spend
five minutes with yourselves.
Contemplate your breaths.
See your body exhales.
See your body inhales.
This is called
the mindfulness of breathing.
FACEBOOK LIVE
[relax music continues]
[music stops]
[joyful music playing]
MONK DOL GIVING SERMON
Looking at the trend, I think
people are spreading the word about him.
Then we have to increase
the social media channels, right?
If possible,
we'll have to launch more ads. Right?
[Dear] Shall we do the podcast now,
so I can seriously start?
- Ask Monk Dol.
- Okay.
I think the singing contest idea
works out really well.
More and more people are coming.
From what I counted today,
it was probably around 300 people.
What's the total income for today?
It's 75,720 baht and 25 satang.
By the end of the month, it should be
around two million?
If we run it well, we should be able to
increase it by ten percent per day.
If we're lucky, it'll be more.
[Dear] But it would be even better
if we could skyrocket
so we can pay off the first installment.
Will we make it to five million?
[Tang whistling]
- [Tang] Oh.
- [music stops]
Are you guys having a meeting?
Can I join?
- We're done.
- [Tang] What?
We're done.
[Tang] Oh. What the hell?
I'm going to measure the area.
It's getting dark.
[Game] Um.
Where are you going, girl?
[sighs]
[Tang] Oh. Uh
[Tang] Um.
[Game sighs]
[Tang] Well.
The thing is, our flea market
uses so much electricity,
and there's also a singing contest.
So?
So, you guys are not
charging enough parking fees.
Honestly, it's such a waste.
Listen, we need to cater
to the people who visit the temple.
[yelling] I understand.
But we can charge a bit higher.
Tell them it goes to temple maintenance.
Done.
Alright, Uncle.
What exactly
do you want?
- If you don't want it, I'll take it.
- [Game sighs]
Okay.
Who knows how hard I've worked?
I'm only asking for scraps.
Do you know how much profit
the market vendors make per day?
Those meatball stalls
make a couple of thousands per day.
Okay, okay.
- You can have the parking fees.
- Okay.
But the thing about the flea market,
we need to take it slowly.
[sighs]
You know the locals and you know
we want no problems with them.
And about the parking fees,
you must let us set the price
so it won't affect
the overall business here.
Fine.
But don't forget my ten percent cut.
Um.
Greedy bastard.
[cat meowing]
Namaskar.
What are you doing here?
[Monk Dol] To do a walking meditation.
Why've you come so far to do it?
It's peaceful here.
Oh, I see.
[Dear] Um.
Would you mind
holding that end of the measuring tape?
Thank you.
Why are you measuring this?
[pensive music playing]
I'm going to expand the cemetery area.
You're at a cemetery. Aren't you afraid?
Afraid of what?
Oh.
Ghosts?
I don't really believe in ghosts.
I believe that once we die, it's over.
What about you? Are you afraid of ghosts?
Do you think a person who's seen one
would believe they exist?
Oh.
So pretty.
[shutter clicking]
[sighs]
[shutter clicking]
When we
can't create our own light,
we get fascinated by other lights.
Oh.
Are you giving a sermon?
Will it be long?
There are lots of mosquitoes here.
[singing Thai country song]
- Here. Look at this.
- [clapping]
This is for you, sweetie.
Oh, no, you can't.
Not yet.
This is just my first day working here.
Since it's your first day at work,
I should give you the maximum.
Here. Here you go.
- Alright, then
- Wow, look at how you pull my hand.
She says this to all her customers.
She'll go to other bars later.
Is that true?
Not at all.
Hey, don't slander her.
Sure. You're so cute.
- You're nosy.
- [Tang] Just a bit.
Shall we buy all the drinks?
For Kraisorn too.
- Order all you want. Go ahead.
- [clapping]
Hey, Tod, take care of it.
I don't have any money.
I've been short lately.
What did you say? An electric shock?
I'm short, I have no money.
What kind of a stupid joke was that?
Oh. [chuckles]
Someone like you is short on money?
I don't buy it.
Come on, Tang.
It's hard to wiggle around these days.
[Tos] The cops are annoying.
Ask Pong if you don't believe me.
How are we supposed to do it?
That bastard Sam got caught yesterday.
What? Again?
Heck yeah.
Hey, you all seem like
a bunch of nincompoops.
[sighs]
I have a way
to make you guys stop leeching of me.
And no one will bother you.
Cheers.
- Let's drink.
- [Pong] What the hell are you waiting for?
- [Win's mom] Have you eaten?
- [Win] Yeah.
[sniffs, sighs]
- [Win's mom] Has work been tiring?
- Um
No. It's fine.
[Win's mom] I see.
- Are you coming home today?
- I'm going back soon.
- [Win's mom] At dawn again?
- [Win chuckles]
I forgot to tell you,
I met Dear the other day.
We had noodles
where I used to take you to.
Should we order it to eat at home
and invite Dear next time?
[suspenseful music playing]
Can you hear me?
Yeah, mom. Let's talk later.
Hey, Win. What are you doing here?
Well
I'm going into the city,
so I came to ask if you need anything.
No, I'm good.
This is Monk Ekachai.
He just graduated from Bangkok.
[Father Kiw] He wanted to return
to the temple to help out.
This is Win.
He and his friends volunteer
to help out at the temple.
From now on, if you need to contact me,
you can do it through Monk Ekachai.
Sure.
[Monk Ekachai] Greetings.
[Thai country song playing]
[Game laughing] Not okay. Next.
- Please repeat after me.
- [Game] Let me see.
Hey, this one seems promising.
Ten, twenty, thirty, forty
Monks love riding a car.
Monks love riding a boat.
[rap chanting] Anicca vata sankhara.
Conditioned things are impermanent
[Game] Pass.
Forced love is like
a pair of shoes that are
too tight and uncomfortable for your feet.
[monk] But good love is like
a comfortable pair of shoes,
which are
Carlos shoes.
- Hold on. What the fuck is this?
- [music stops]
An IG model?
Let's stop for now.
Let's start with eliminating
some of these choices.
[Game] Let's eliminate the ones
who don't seem okay first.
PAWI GREEN TEA
This one, out.
But the rest shouldn't be too old.
We should target younger people.
But we can't choose someone too young
because they aren't admirable.
- Hey, we've got one.
- [Game] Hmm?
Monk Dong-Won, half Thai and Korean.
This type is trendy now.
This one?
- Do we have any clips of him?
- Here.
I'll find one.
Annyeonghaseyo.
Greetings. I'm a foreign monk.
Hey.
- [Monk Dong-Won] I was born in Korea.
- Oppa.
[relax music playing]
In a city where there is no Buddhism.
But the truth is
regardless of where we were born,
we can all be a Dharma successor.
Which temple does he reside in? And
What's his price?
[Dear] Umm
Dharma Niwet Sawat Forest Temple.
If we're going for a monk this famous,
we need to prepare a good deal.
We have no time left.
It's almost time we pay our debt.
We should get him for now.
[Game] I'm fine with him. You?
You're coming with me, Game.
- Dear, you take care of the flea market.
- Okay.
Will we make it back
before my sister's delivery?
Of course. Just for a few days.
Okay.
[electronic music playing]
Hey. We're here.
[Game sighs]
- [woman 1] Take this one.
- [Dear] Okay.
- How much is it?
- [woman 1] It's 120.
[Dear] So, there's going to be
a flea market at Phummaram Temple.
If you want to sell pomelos there,
call this number.
- This number?
- That's right.
[monk preaching]
Holy smokes.
So many people.
If you're interested,
you can call the number down there.
[woman 2] Sure.
Hello?
[Pui] Hello, Dear. It's me, Pui.
- Do you remember me?
- Oh, Pui. What's up?
[Pui] Hey, so
- [Win's mom] Dear?
- [Pui] I'm getting married.
[Monk Dong-Won] You are Buddhists.
You must know
what the Four Noble Truths are, right?
Suffering, the cause of suffering,
the end of suffering, and the path.
Good. You're good at memorizing.
[people laughing]
[Monk Dong-Waon] The teachings
of Lord Buddha
Fuck, we can't get in.
ADMINISTRATIVE UNI
Wait. Be right back.
[Game] Excuse me.
- Hello.
- Hello.
What do I have to do
if I want to meet Monk Dong-Won?
You can't make a booking now, dear.
People made their bookings
months in advance.
Is there any way to squeeze me in?
The thing is,
I'd like to make donations to the temple.
[chuckles]
- There.
- Yes?
That group over there
has booked us for the whole week.
Why did it take so long?
I found a way for us
to meet Monk Dong-Won.
Over there.
[sermon listeners] Sadhu.
[bell chimes]
[Thai country song playing on TV]
By the way, Dear,
have you talked to Win at all?
Yes, sometimes.
What has he been doing lately?
Do you know?
[Win's mom] He doesn't tell me
about things.
I see.
You get prettier the more you grow up.
[chuckles] Has Win ever hit on you?
- Win doesn't know how to flirt.
- Is that so?
[TV host] The votes are unanimous.
Two hundred-time champion.
See? I knew it.
[woman] No one has been able
to take him down.
He's tough. Do you know
he's signing a contract with a label?
[woman] He's my new favorite one.
- [man] Shit. I'm leaving.
- [woman] Just go.
[TV host] 200 times in Thailand
in this competition of
Incredible. Tell us how you feel.
[man] I feel pretty excited
[joyful music playing]
- I'll get braised fish maw.
- I'll get Nam Phrik Long Ruea.
- Hello, sisters.
- Hi there.
I bought you some drinks.
I saw you sitting up there for so long,
thought you might be thirsty.
- [woman 1] You're so sweet.
- Thank you.
My name is Game. It's my first time here.
How did you know about this place?
My sister recommended this place to me.
She wanted me to come
and listen to his sermon,
so I came and I was very impressed.
- He preaches so well.
- Yes.
He's kind and good at preaching.
He's very good.
[Grace] I don't want to show you.
You didn't come.
Sis, I'm sorry.
[music fades]
I'm really caught up with work. Please
I'm begging you.
Let me see my niece's face. Please?
Fine.
Well? Is she cute?
Wow!
So how was the labor?
It was okay, nothing out of ordinary.
But my belly still hurts
and I felt a bit dizzy.
Then you should get some rest.
And don't force yourself to work. Got it?
All right. Okay.
I've got work in the morning. Bye.
[Grace] Okay, bye.
Bye, niece. Bye.
[sighs]
[lighter clicks]
[text beeping]
HI, I'M GAME. NICE TO MEET YOU.
MONK DONG-WON WILL GIVE SERMON AT 7AM
- [Win] Hey.
- Hmm?
- Got toothpaste?
- In my bag.
- Oh.
- [Game] Um.
Why are you smiling?
Because I got into the temple's VIP group.
The aunties said we could meet
Monk Dong-Won after his sermon.
What time's the alarm?
Well, they said to be there at eight, so
What would be good? Seven?
So freaking early.
- I'm not taking a shower tomorrow.
- [Game] Okay.
[monks chanting in Pali] The Dhamma is
well elaborated by the Exalted One.
I pay homage to the Dhamma.
The Sangha, the Blessed One's disciples
Did we get here on time?
I pay homage to the Sangha
Venerable Sir,
we request the Three Refuges
and the Five Precepts
For the second time,
May we, O Venerable Sir
Where'd the oppa go?
[whispering] Check the group chat.
[monks chanting in the background]
Shit, I forgot to turn off
airplane mode. Fuck.
You idiot.
Fuck.
Monk Dong-Won went to Bangkok
for a TV show.
[sighs]
Let's go. I told them
we'd meet them in Bangkok.
- Hold on.
- What?
So who are these people here for?
How am I supposed to know?
Let's go.
All right.
Rest your mind. Stay conscious.
[relax music playing]
Someone once asked the Lord Buddha,
"If you were to make your teachings
as short as possible, what would you say?"
He said only one sentence,
"The heart of all the teachings is
we shouldn't hold on to Dharma."
When our minds want to hear a sermon,
do they suffer?
The minds that want to make merit,
make alms offerings,
and make robe offerings to monks,
do they suffer?
If those are burdens to the mind,
then it will suffer.
When it's lost, it will suffer.
The soul will relax.
It's hard to recognize the attachment
to goodness. Are moral precepts good?
[monk] What about meditation? Is it good?
Yes, it is.
What about wisdom? Is it good?
Yes, it is.
They are all good.
It's easy to put down bad things,
but it's hard to put down good things.
We have moral precepts
as our tools to get into meditation.
We have meditation to enhance our wisdom.
So, we won't hold on
to the moral precepts,
we won't hold on to the meditation,
or even wisdom.
If we pray
and focus on adhering to the wisdom,
our minds will be distracted
and not peaceful.
But we need moral, meditation, and wisdom
to attain the path to nirvana.
And if our meditation, wisdom,
and morals are complete,
the path to nirvana will appear by itself.
Holy shit. He got me good.
ASMR.
What's that?
Let's go with him.
[theme music playing]
THE BELIEVERS
[Game] Hey.
Do you agree that he preaches
much better than Monk Dong-Won?
Make a deal.
Okay.
After I take a dump.
[Win] Grandma.
Let me help you carry that.
Do you walk here every day?
[woman] Not every day.
There are too many people these days.
I can't fight with the crowd.
I only come on some days
Monk Dol gives his sermon.
- Is he the one who gave a sermon just now?
- Right.
Were you listening?
It's good that a youngster like you
visits the temple.
But his sermons are really good.
[clearing throat]
Why do you like Monk Dol?
Well, how should I put it?
His teachings are both easy
and difficult.
He focuses on letting people
practice it themselves.
He once thought of building
a Dharma retreat pavilion,
but the construction
has been halted for many years.
I guess the temple
doesn't have enough budget.
What kind of pavilion?
WIN IS INVITING YOU TO THE MEETING
[ringing]
Hey. You guys've been gone for a while.
We have changed the monk.
How come?
This one works better,
but we need something.
[tense music playing]
[Win] The monk
we're inviting is into practices.
Remember Tang said
temples must be built slowly
so people can take their time
making merit?
I think this project will be the
start of our fundraising
and convince this monk
to come to our temple.
Look at this space. I think
a Dharma retreat pavilion would fit here.
The temple's mood and tone fit the idea
of minimal pavilion you wanted to do.
It's a nice idea.
There are a lot of trees too.
Here.
We are going to
trade a pavilion for Monk Dol.
[Win] We'll build duo pavilions,
make it parallel to the one at our temple,
make it a coordinated project.
This'll help us win over temples that are
trying to encourage people to practice.
If everyone's on board, I'll ask
the aunties for the abbot's contact.
Can you draw a rough plan of the pavilion?
I need it to talk to the abbot.
- Okay, give me the location.
- Send it tomorrow.
Okay, I guess?
[music stops]
Okay, bye.
Dear.
Here are my design samples
of your wedding card. Have a look
and tell me which one you like.
Which one do you like?
Umm
I'll go with the design you like.
Can you oversee the setup of my wedding?
The one the hotel sent me sucks.
But I've never worked on
a wedding setup before.
It's okay. You can have your first tryout
with my wedding.
I trust you.
- Really?
- Just do it.
[woman] Excuse me, sir.
Could you please come this way?
Sure.
This way.
You said you'd never
fall in love again after Toh.
Hey, we don't have to
always stay true to our word.
What an asshole.
[both laughing]
So, what do you do now?
I'm working with a friend.
Who?
Win.
Win?
Which Win?
Win Peerapat.
Win Peerapat from Class Five?
What? Are you still with him?
Holy shit. What an eternal love.
Love, my ass.
Come on. Everyone at school knew.
We're just friends, bitch.
If you say so.
So, will you help me with the setup?
Fine, I'll do it.
[sighs]
I'm so relieved to have you work it.
Let's continue looking.
[relax music playing]
I heard from Waew.
Are you guys here to ordain?
Oh, no, Father. We're not going to ordain.
Umm.
What is it do you want?
You see, we have been entrusted
by the abbot of Phummaram Temple
to renovate it in order to
attract the younger generation,
so they can get better access to Dharma.
Right.
But I have to be honest with you.
No matter what we do,
the youngsters can't get into Dharma,
but then we found this temple
and Monk Dol.
What? Monk Dol?
Well, I'd never thought
that a monk like Monk Dol
would be able to strike
Dharma into my heart like that.
That's why we want to build this.
It's a Dharma retreat pavilion
with teachings aligning
with the ones of Phummaram Temple.
In other words,
we want to build a twin pavilion.
I'm going to call this project
"Merit Baskets."
We need a representative
from this temple to spread the teachings
and set up the project
in the initial phase.
What do you think?
Um
This project seems interesting,
but it's a matter of forest
versus city temples.
It's not appropriate
for a forest temple monk
to stay at a city temple
because each temple has its own practices.
Well, you don't need to worry about that.
We'll take good care of Monk Dol.
And we'll escort him back here before
Buddhist Lent Day.
Are you guys really determined to do this?
Yes.
Then you should go and ask him.
Let him make his own decision.
Okay, Father.
Well then, we'll get going.
I'm sorry,
but I have to decline your offer.
I just think it would be inappropriate
to abandon this temple.
But I can see you have good intentions.
What you're planning to do
is a very good thing.
What do you have issue with?
If people really want to practice,
coming here may help them gain
more knowledge and understanding.
What about those
who can't afford to do so?
[sighs]
I've been ordained here
since I was a novice.
I've never been to any other temples.
I've always been here.
And most importantly,
the practices of each temple
are different.
Well, you can practice
whichever way you're comfortable with.
And if you need anything,
we'll prepare it for you.
Then I would be bothering you.
I shouldn't bother or trouble anyone.
No, we wouldn't be troubled at all.
Venerable Brother,
anything we do to promote Buddhism
is considered a good thing, isn't it?
I want the elders at Phummaram Temple
to have a chance to listen to your sermon.
We've talked to the abbot.
He has no problem with this.
And personally, I think that
whether you're a forest or a city monk,
you're all under
the refuge of Lord Buddha.
There's no need for segregation.
There are many people
who want to access the teachings,
but they don't have a chance to
because they don't live here.
When we listened to your sermon that day,
we thought our Dharma retreat pavilion
project would fill this gap.
I want the teachings of Lord Buddha
to be spread even further.
Wouldn't you agree?
Let's just say that
I understand your purpose now.
[music stops]
What's that supposed to mean?
Do I look like a monk to you?
[indistinct chattering]
MERIT-MAKING BOOTH
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
Let's go and meet
the abbot at the pavilion.
[indistinct chattering continues]
[Game] Hey.
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
FLOWERS INCENSE CANDLES
[Game] Hey, White Girl.
Let's greet the abbot.
Hi there.
It's "namaskar" when greeting a monk.
- Sorry.
- [Win] Please come this way.
[Thai country song playing
in the background]
Namaskar, Venerable Father.
Bless you.
I would like to stay
at this temple for three months.
Please consider approving my request.
Um.
But you must adjust yourself
in many ways if you stay here.
Are you up for that?
Yes.
Um.
From now on,
I'll leave this temple to you.
If many people come here
to make merit and do good deeds,
then that's a good thing.
Yes, Father.
Excuse me.
May I have you check out
the retreat pavilion's construction site?
MAKE A CONTRIBUTION TO THE CONSTRUCTION
OF A DHARMA RETREAT PAVILION
PHUMARAM TEMPLE
AND DHARMA NIWET SAWAT TEMPLE
So, this is where
the retreat pavilion will be built.
And this is where the gable will be.
It will be facing
the Dharma Niwet Sawat Forest Temple,
which fits our concept of "Merit Baskets".
Do as you see fit.
Alright. As for the
entire list of materials,
I'll show you the specifications later.
Now, let me take you
Let me invite you to come this way.
MAKE A CONTRIBUTION TO THE CONSTRUCTION
OF A DHARMA RETREAT PAVILION
[Thai country song playing on speakers]
Please welcome our next contestant
for the folk song singing contest.
Dome!
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE INVITES YOU
TO VISIT, TASTE, WATCH AND SHOP
AT THE FESTIVAL FROM 9-15 OF JULY
JOIN IN THE BIG MERIT-MAKING EVEN
[audience clapping and cheering]
[man singing Thai country song]
Hot damn. That dude is so sick.
Seriously though,
Dear's ideas are freaking good.
So many people came. Look around.
Would you like to ask me anything
No, I'm good.
Alright, then.
There's a flea market
and a singing contest today.
Do you want to try out?
I can't. It's against the sila.
I see.
Sorry.
This is Note.
- He'll escort you to your residence.
- Namaskar.
[song fades]
[relax music playing]
[Monk Dol chanting] The Blessed One
who fully attained enlightenment.
The teaching that has been expounded well.
The disciples
who have been practicing diligently.
The Buddha, The Dhamma, The Sangha.
You're leaving so early.
Aren't you going with us later?
I want to explore other routes.
I see. Please go ahead.
Okay. Please turn left this time.
- Left, please. Looking good.
- [music stops]
Look at the camera. Yes.
A bit to the left. Just a little. Yes.
Alright. Please look back at the camera.
Please smile a little. Just relax.
Alright.
Smile and relax. Smile.
[shutter clicking]
Well?
These look great.
No more Monk Dong-Won?
No, not anymore.
Hey, but this one does look admirable.
I know, right?
I thought it was just me.
Let's say I'm not charging you
for this set.
- What? Seriously?
- Take it as my contribution.
Wow, I rejoice in your merit. Sadhu.
Thank you.
- I'll get back to work.
- Sure. Thank you.
[joyful music playing]
COME AND LISTEN TO A SERMON
COME AND LISTEN TO A SERMON
BY MONK DONG-WON WIDHURO
COME AND LISTEN TO A SERMON
BY MONK DOL SANTAJITTO
"WE HAVE MORALS AS TOOLS
TO GET INTO MEDITATION
WE NEED MEDITATION TO ENHANCE OUR WISDOM"
MONK DOL SANTAJITTO
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
A SERMON BY MONK DOL SANTAJITTO
[on speakers] Greetings,
ladies and gentlemen.
You're invited to a sermon
[laughs]
by a monk from Hat Yai.
Monk Dol, a new monk
with a great face and voice.
He can resonate with people of all ages.
The sermon is at 5 p.m. I repeat, 5 p.m.
Those who come to practice Dharma
[chanting] Homage to the Blessed One,
the Worthy One, the Self-Awakened One.
Homage to the Blessed One,
the Worthy One, the Self-Awakened One.
[Game] Hey, when he's finished chanting.
Let's start shooting.
the Self-Awakened One.
[Monk Dol] I've come here today
to give a Dharma talk.
Please put your hands down.
Sit in a comfortable position.
Buddhism
is a complex religion.
[relax music playing]
You must practice it by yourself.
TIKTOK LIVE
But most people
only focus on making wishes
and rely on holy things,
never think of relying on themselves.
However, Buddhism teaches us
to rely on ourselves
- train ourselves
- Excuse me.
What do you think about his sermon?
It's pretty good.
Honestly,
I don't understand everything,
but his voice is vibrant and pleasing.
Listening to him makes me feel relaxed.
Also
He's pretty handsome. I like him.
[chuckles]
Since you've heard the teachings,
I want you to spend
five minutes with yourselves.
Contemplate your breaths.
See your body exhales.
See your body inhales.
This is called
the mindfulness of breathing.
FACEBOOK LIVE
[relax music continues]
[music stops]
[joyful music playing]
MONK DOL GIVING SERMON
Looking at the trend, I think
people are spreading the word about him.
Then we have to increase
the social media channels, right?
If possible,
we'll have to launch more ads. Right?
[Dear] Shall we do the podcast now,
so I can seriously start?
- Ask Monk Dol.
- Okay.
I think the singing contest idea
works out really well.
More and more people are coming.
From what I counted today,
it was probably around 300 people.
What's the total income for today?
It's 75,720 baht and 25 satang.
By the end of the month, it should be
around two million?
If we run it well, we should be able to
increase it by ten percent per day.
If we're lucky, it'll be more.
[Dear] But it would be even better
if we could skyrocket
so we can pay off the first installment.
Will we make it to five million?
[Tang whistling]
- [Tang] Oh.
- [music stops]
Are you guys having a meeting?
Can I join?
- We're done.
- [Tang] What?
We're done.
[Tang] Oh. What the hell?
I'm going to measure the area.
It's getting dark.
[Game] Um.
Where are you going, girl?
[sighs]
[Tang] Oh. Uh
[Tang] Um.
[Game sighs]
[Tang] Well.
The thing is, our flea market
uses so much electricity,
and there's also a singing contest.
So?
So, you guys are not
charging enough parking fees.
Honestly, it's such a waste.
Listen, we need to cater
to the people who visit the temple.
[yelling] I understand.
But we can charge a bit higher.
Tell them it goes to temple maintenance.
Done.
Alright, Uncle.
What exactly
do you want?
- If you don't want it, I'll take it.
- [Game sighs]
Okay.
Who knows how hard I've worked?
I'm only asking for scraps.
Do you know how much profit
the market vendors make per day?
Those meatball stalls
make a couple of thousands per day.
Okay, okay.
- You can have the parking fees.
- Okay.
But the thing about the flea market,
we need to take it slowly.
[sighs]
You know the locals and you know
we want no problems with them.
And about the parking fees,
you must let us set the price
so it won't affect
the overall business here.
Fine.
But don't forget my ten percent cut.
Um.
Greedy bastard.
[cat meowing]
Namaskar.
What are you doing here?
[Monk Dol] To do a walking meditation.
Why've you come so far to do it?
It's peaceful here.
Oh, I see.
[Dear] Um.
Would you mind
holding that end of the measuring tape?
Thank you.
Why are you measuring this?
[pensive music playing]
I'm going to expand the cemetery area.
You're at a cemetery. Aren't you afraid?
Afraid of what?
Oh.
Ghosts?
I don't really believe in ghosts.
I believe that once we die, it's over.
What about you? Are you afraid of ghosts?
Do you think a person who's seen one
would believe they exist?
Oh.
So pretty.
[shutter clicking]
[sighs]
[shutter clicking]
When we
can't create our own light,
we get fascinated by other lights.
Oh.
Are you giving a sermon?
Will it be long?
There are lots of mosquitoes here.
[singing Thai country song]
- Here. Look at this.
- [clapping]
This is for you, sweetie.
Oh, no, you can't.
Not yet.
This is just my first day working here.
Since it's your first day at work,
I should give you the maximum.
Here. Here you go.
- Alright, then
- Wow, look at how you pull my hand.
She says this to all her customers.
She'll go to other bars later.
Is that true?
Not at all.
Hey, don't slander her.
Sure. You're so cute.
- You're nosy.
- [Tang] Just a bit.
Shall we buy all the drinks?
For Kraisorn too.
- Order all you want. Go ahead.
- [clapping]
Hey, Tod, take care of it.
I don't have any money.
I've been short lately.
What did you say? An electric shock?
I'm short, I have no money.
What kind of a stupid joke was that?
Oh. [chuckles]
Someone like you is short on money?
I don't buy it.
Come on, Tang.
It's hard to wiggle around these days.
[Tos] The cops are annoying.
Ask Pong if you don't believe me.
How are we supposed to do it?
That bastard Sam got caught yesterday.
What? Again?
Heck yeah.
Hey, you all seem like
a bunch of nincompoops.
[sighs]
I have a way
to make you guys stop leeching of me.
And no one will bother you.
Cheers.
- Let's drink.
- [Pong] What the hell are you waiting for?
- [Win's mom] Have you eaten?
- [Win] Yeah.
[sniffs, sighs]
- [Win's mom] Has work been tiring?
- Um
No. It's fine.
[Win's mom] I see.
- Are you coming home today?
- I'm going back soon.
- [Win's mom] At dawn again?
- [Win chuckles]
I forgot to tell you,
I met Dear the other day.
We had noodles
where I used to take you to.
Should we order it to eat at home
and invite Dear next time?
[suspenseful music playing]
Can you hear me?
Yeah, mom. Let's talk later.
Hey, Win. What are you doing here?
Well
I'm going into the city,
so I came to ask if you need anything.
No, I'm good.
This is Monk Ekachai.
He just graduated from Bangkok.
[Father Kiw] He wanted to return
to the temple to help out.
This is Win.
He and his friends volunteer
to help out at the temple.
From now on, if you need to contact me,
you can do it through Monk Ekachai.
Sure.
[Monk Ekachai] Greetings.
[Thai country song playing]