The Believers (2024) s01e04 Episode Script
The joy of giving
- [girl] Would you like some candy?
- [Win] How much?
Twenty baht.
Pick one for me.
Here you go.
- Keep the change.
- Thank you.
Thank you.
[girl] Would you like some candy?
- Didn't have to come if you're busy.
- Bye, then.
- See you.
- Asshole.
- What the hell?
- Want a drink?
No.
It's for you.
[soft music playing]
Isn't it your birthday?
What? You remembered?
Of course, I remember, asshole.
Hey, not bad.
What's this?
A lucky stone for good luck
and smooth-running business.
Smooth, my ass. I don't want it.
It's not for you. It's for your cat.
Don't you dare throw it away.
It was pricey.
- Fine, if Salt will wear it.
- Um.
Happy birthday.
Would you please splurge a bit?
Why would I? You ain't my woman.
That's all you got for me?
- It's dry as hell.
- That's your rice.
You asshole.
[theme music playing]
THE BELIEVERS
[man] One, two
MAKING MERIT BY DONATING COFFINS
- Did you contact the USDT trader?
- Huh?
Yeah.
Yeah.
Hey, who's the new monk with Father Kiw?
I caught a glimpse of him.
His name's Ekachai.
I heard he used to be here
and went to study in Bangkok.
Will he be a problem?
Let's wait and see.
[Tang whistling Thai country song]
- [Win chuckles]
- [whistling]
Ow!
Shit.
[Game sighs]
What now?
Don't give me that look.
I'm not here to shake you down. Jeez.
Someone wants to sponsor us.
This one?
Who's she?
[Tang] A local politician.
She saw that we're good
at throwing events,
so she wants to be a regular sponsor.
[Tang laughing]
You bring in money now?
I thought you only eat money.
Hey, watch your mouth.
Only corpses eat money.
So, are you guys interested?
- Let's do it.
- [Tang laughing]
- Okay.
- Do we have enough monks' residences?
How hard can it be?
Pick a plot. Except the ordination hall.
We need to tear that down.
And once we have the plot,
have Dear design it.
I'll take care of the rest.
- [Tang] It won't be hard.
- Okay.
Okay.
REQUEST TO SERVE AS SPONSOR
FOR GROUP ORDINATION OF 16 MONKS
[electronic music playing]
[all chanting in Pali] I bow to you
with respect.
If I have ever been careless
or made a mistake
BIGGEST BUY AND SALE MARKETPLACE
PURCHASE CONFIRM
PURCHASE SUCCESSFUL
[Game] Hey.
- [Win] What?
- Do we have any more Phapa trees?
- We ran out again?
- [Game] Yeah.
- I'll order more.
- Do that.
- [Win] Um.
- Okay.
[monks chanting in Pali] May you find
happiness and prosperity.
May you flourish and thrive.
- May you be well and content.
- [coughs]
May all beings find happiness
under the Buddha's guidance.
May you flourish and thrive. May you be
Sadhu.
Sadhu.
Sadhu.
I rejoice in your merit.
[music stops]
I have some documents for you to sign.
Here you are.
Since we have many monks
residing at our temple now,
I think we need to build more residences.
- Would you handle this for me?
- Sure.
Let Monk Ekachai know
if you need anything else.
What's that medicine?
It's Chinese medicine, a tonic.
Would you like some for yourself?
- Oh.
- You've aged a lot.
- Hey, watch it.
- Tang.
He's a monk.
I'm sorry.
[suspenseful music playing]
Tell me if you need anything, Chaiyong.
I will.
[music stops]
Hi.
Exchange money?
- Yes.
- Get in.
[sighs]
- What about the rest?
- No, I'm not exchanging it.
What do you want it in?
- USDT, please.
- Okay.
[sighs]
YOS' LAWYER OFFICE
YOS' LAWYER OFFICE
CALL 084-621-3775
[tense music playing]
[Game] Oh!
How can I help you?
I'm here to see Lawyer Yos.
Lawyer Yos, a client's here to see you.
- Hello.
- Um.
[sighs]
[Yossaphat] So
Was the traffic bad?
No.
Do you like to play golf?
I don't play golf.
[Game] Then
All these
All these trophies
how did you get them?
In my line of work,
one needs to have what we call
prestige.
[tense music continues]
I see.
- Want some mango?
- No, thanks. I don't like it.
[Yossaphat] The amount you've paid
doesn't cover this month's interest.
Right.
The interest rate is 20%.
Don't you remember?
I remember.
Well, it's
very high.
I don't care whether it's high or not.
My responsibility
is to ensure the debt gets paid.
[inhales deeply]
All done.
OUTSTANDING BALANCE: 45,020,000
Okay.
I'll be on my way.
- Hang on.
- Yes?
Next time,
please try to be a bit more punctual.
You were 15 minutes late.
Sure, of course.
Take it easy, now.
Goodbye.
[music fades]
When you have wealth,
friends gaze upon you.
When tarnished,
those friends regard you as animals.
When you have nothing,
no friends seek you out.
Upon passing, even animals turn away.
May you be blessed.
Right here.
Oh, right here?
This area seems bustling now.
You're the reason
this area is beginning to thrive.
Did someone give you sugar cane drink?
Such a sweet talker.
[laughs]
Choom! Pull over.
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
VISIT, TASTE, WATCH, SHOP, JULY 9-15
[monk] Master, PCM. Ae won't be sponsoring
our temple's annual event this year.
She only donated funds for merit-making.
[suspenseful music playing]
Which temple is she sponsoring?
Just a moment.
BUDDHIST LENT EVEN
AT PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
It's in our temple network,
Phummaram Temple.
Led by Monk Veera.
Then you should find make a sign,
and look for a new sponsor,
and put it up now.
I will.
Right this moment, right now.
Right, right.
[Monk Dol] If you have come to know
Buddhism
but don't try to make use of it
by learning from Lord Buddha's teachings,
that is neglectful.
For that reason,
now that you've heard the teachings,
let's put them into practice.
- [relax music playing]
- Alright, everyone.
Close your eyes.
Let's do some meditation practice.
Behave. Listen to the monk.
Stay mindful of your breath,
be aware of your presence.
[teacher] Students,
come and line up over here.
- Namaskar.
- Greetings.
I want to ask about your availability
for recording clips and podcasts.
Can't you record during my sermons?
The audio quality isn't great,
so it's better to record separately.
When are you available?
I'm available every day.
I'm not going anywhere.
I see.
Master, Master.
[boy] My teacher wants you to sign this.
You're so pretty.
Do you have a boyfriend?
I have a bunch. Why? Wanna hit on me?
[chuckles]
Master, do you think she's pretty?
You can't ask him that.
- [Note] Dear!
- Huh?
[Note] Follow me! Hurry!
Just come and see this.
[tense music playing]
[sighs]
Shit.
I don't know how close you are with Tang,
but you can't play favorites here.
- What's this about?
- How would I know?
They requested me.
You're just lying.
You don't even know the chants.
Fallen monk!
Fallen monk, my ass!
- You fuck!
- [Tos] Stop it!
- Scum!
- [monk 1] Wait!
Get out of my way!
- [Note] Game! Step back.
- [Tos] Let go!
Let's kick his ass
[monk 2] Fucking asshole!
[monk 3] Pong, enough!
- Pong, don't!
- [Pong] You fuck!
Let go!
That's enough!
[bell chiming]
[music stops]
What are you all doing?
Do you know engaging in a physical fight
could lead you to getting defrocked?
If you're not considerate toward me,
at least be considerate toward the abbot.
[sighs]
What's this all about?
These monks keep accepting
service requests and not sparing us any.
They requested us.
What were we supposed to do?
We entered monkhood
to study Buddhist teachings,
not to exploit it for personal gain.
Have you no shame at all?
[tense music playing]
I'll discuss with the abbot
and sort this out for you.
As for all of you,
it's time for repentance.
[Monk Ekachai] From now on,
after the evening chants,
I'll post the queue of requested services
for each monk on the board every night.
Except for you,
because our monastic activities differ.
[tense music playing]
[Father Kiw coughing]
[Monk Ekachai] The problem occurred
because our temple has gotten bigger.
More monks have joined,
but we've never had a system to organize.
RULES FOR ACCEPTING REQUESTED SERVICES
All monks residing in this temple
must follow the rules
drafted by the abbot and me.
If anyone is dissatisfied
or unable to follow the rules,
the abbot is open
to allowing you to reside elsewhere
or to leave the monkhood.
That'll be all for now.
You're free to go about
your personal activities.
But let me reiterate,
don't let anything like this happen again.
[music fades]
[Father Kiw chanting in Pali] He who is
the Peaceful One.
The Worthy One,
the Perfectly Enlightened One.
[all monks] The Dharma taught
by the Blessed One is well-spoken.
- The Sangha
- [coughs]
of the Blessed One's disciples is
well-gone.
Can you continue?
I seek refuge in the Buddha,
the Dharma, and the Sangha.
With these offerings, arranged in
accordance with the Buddha's guidance,
we pay our respects.
Please come out.
Did everything go well?
Yes, everything went well.
Who has the collected merit funds?
I do.
[suspenseful music playing]
Madam Phon said that
She said that monks from our temple
could chant so beautifully.
[laughs]
That's good.
Please be our temple's eyes and ears.
The abbot said
you know every corner of the temple.
That's right. I know every corner.
You don't need to worry. [laughs]
May I be reimbursed 2,000 for gasoline?
Bring me the bill.
Look, the tower is getting destroyed.
Let's crush them, bitch. Get them.
It's getting destroyed. Get them. Idiots.
- Hello there.
- Yes?
Hello.
[Monk Ekachai] Continue playing.
I don't mind.
[sighs]
You're Game, right?
Yes.
Father said you're in charge
of temple's accounts.
I just help Uncle Tang with it.
[suspenseful music playing]
Then help me sort this money.
Here you go.
Did Uncle Tang leave that with you?
Put 1,000 baht in each envelope.
Okay.
This is the rest.
What do you want me to do with this money?
That's for temple's general funds.
You can keep it in the safe.
Okay.
And I'll need your help
to print this for me.
[Game] Sure.
If you're leaving, could I give you
documents for Father Kiw to sign?
I believe it's a sin
to have monks do things for you.
My apologies.
Give them to me.
Alright.
Here you go.
I'll print the document for you now.
- [Monk Ekachai] Please.
- Sure.
[music stops]
SRIMONGKOL
[whistling]
You're really pulling off
being a monk here.
Go. Just get lost.
Alright, Bro.
Tang, here's the money.
Did you count it?
[Tos] Come on, at this level,
no need to count.
Give me a cig.
The gold watch guy asking for a cig.
- [laughing] Is it even real?
- Oh, fuck off.
You asshole.
It's fake.
What? Where's the real one?
- I pawned it.
- Oh, shoot!
Give me a cig.
I've got none left.
[Pong] Yesterday, Ekachai fucked us up.
[Tos] Hey, Tang.
Since fucking Ekachai
took over from the abbot,
- We're gonna be screwed.
- [tense music playing]
It's so hard to get in and out
of the temple.
That's right.
He made me and Chit plant trees all day.
- If you don't believe me, ask Chit.
- Is it true, Chit?
Yeah.
- I'll crush him some day.
- Hey.
Calm down.
Just do what he says for now.
He's probably trying to
show off to the abbot.
It's better to stay in. Try not to go out.
It's nice,
more time to sleep during the day.
[Tos] That's true.
[laughs]
Hmm?
What's that sound?
- What?
- What the fuck?
Hey. Let's end it for now.
- Now, what?
- Told you he's on our side.
[indistinct chattering]
[motorcycles revving]
[tense music playing]
[Game] Hey.
[Tang] Who are they?
What the hell?
I'm so sorry about this.
It won't be like this tomorrow night.
[shouting] Hey, get the hell out of here!
- [gunshot]
- [screaming]
[motorcycles revving]
CHANNEL13
[Game] Hey, Kai, hit pause now.
Who the hell is that?
Is it a thief?
[music stops]
That's me.
I'm sorry.
[Note] It must be Singto and his crew.
They like to come in here
with their motorbikes.
Do they have so much free time?
They've been coming all week.
It's normal for them.
I don't know what they're taking now.
They're amped up non-stop.
Call the police?
Just ask the police
to set up a checkpoint.
Let's not tarnish the temple's name.
I agree.
Is it possible that
since our temple has become well-known,
other temples may have issues with us?
[Note] That's probably true.
[relax music playing]
The remaining days
of Mrs. Jamroon's funeral,
I propose we host it for them
free of charge as an apology.
What do you think?
I agree.
- [Monk Ekachai] Take care of it, Game.
- I will.
[Monk Ekachai] This way, Father.
[Win] Just let it go.
[music stops]
MAILBOX
SPECIAL CHECKPOIN
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
- [Game] Thank you.
- Sure.
[sighs]
Brother, I was wondering
why you thought that
another temple did this.
I talked to the abbot last night.
He said one big-named individual has been
sponsoring Mani Thong Temple's events.
but this year,
she switched to our temple.
So, that temple might be upset.
[truck engine revving]
[tires squealing]
[sighs]
[tense music playing]
Brother.
This PCM recently began
sponsoring events at our temple.
That's right. PCM. Ae.
She's a local politician's daughter.
Folks around here know her.
So, is there really nothing
we can do to that temple?
No, there isn't.
Their abbot is our district abbot.
- Will you excuse me?
- Of course.
[music stops]
Hey, Note.
Come here
[Note] What's up?
Do you know that temple, Mani Thong,
Thong Mani, or something?
Oh, you mean the Sissy's temple?
Sissy?
[electronic music playing]
How'd you get these?
Temple boys' group chat.
It has everything you need.
Uh hold on.
[sighs]
I need more.
Of course, sure thing.
- I'll get going, then.
- Um.
- See you at the temple.
- Yeah.
[indistinct chattering]
[man] Comp 17, you have five minutes left.
Wanna add more time?
Hey, Mullet Boy. How much for
buying out the shop for the night?
Bro, my shop is very busy.
If you take over, I'll lose my customers.
And what if
I give you 20,000 baht?
For real?
Does it look fake?
Okay.
Go ahead and use
whichever computer you want.
[on speakers] Hey, hey!
Tonight,
I'm buying out the shop
so y'all can play for free.
[boys cheering]
But
you guys gotta do me a favor.
[mouses and keyboards clicking]
There.
SISSY MONK
When you comment,
type in a bunch of nines.
[keyboard and mouse clicking]
SADHU
FUCK 999999
SADHU
F.U. 99998
- Is this okay?
- Let me see.
SISSY MONK FROM FAMOUS TEMPLE
EATS BOYS' DICKS
That's awesome.
Don't slack off, yeah?
FUCKKKKK
- See this? Fire back with an insult.
- Game on.
Get 'em.
Save this and flood the comments with it.
[boy] This one's cool, bro.
Cool, my ass. Get to work.
Keep it up, guys.
You're doing great. Keep at it.
Do you know the game "Pirate's Hell?"
[girl 1] What the fuck is that?
How about this?
DEEP DIVE: FAMOUS TEMPLE'S SISSY MONK
Hey, that's good. Post this on every page.
Every page? Okay.
- Get 'em.
- Get 'em.
DEEP DIVE: FAMOUS TEMPLE'S SISSY MONK
[music stops]
Please don't look at the camera,
just look in my direction.
- We all set?
- Yeah.
Please start.
When it comes to Buddhist holy days,
most people associate them with monks.
[text beeping]
Cut. Please wait a moment.
[Win] What the hell?
Please start over.
When it comes to Buddhist holy days,
most people associate them with monks,
so they often make merit with monks
through alms
and offerings.
But, in fact, Buddhist holy days
actually mean days of Dharma,
- [phone buzzing]
- listening to Dharma.
If you get a chance
to make merit with monks,
it's also worth finding time
to listen to Dharma.
[camera clicking]
Could you please start over
from the beginning one more time?
TEMPLE BOYS
SHIT, A WHOLE ALBUM
Always maintain a pure mind,
and you'll see that
Buddhist holy days go beyond
full moon and new moon days.
But in our minds, every day
will become a Buddhist holy day.
Okay.
How did it go?
I think it went well. I'll need to check
the footage, but it should be fine.
By the way, next time, will it be okay
to include a Q&A part at the end?
Many people have left comments
asking questions.
So, maybe you could
answer them in the next EP.
What sort of questions?
Something like
Dharma, everyday life sort of things.
Um.
Do you have any examples?
I'll search it for you.
Don't trouble yourself.
You can ask your own.
After listening to me,
is there anything you want to ask?
Oh.
Me?
Um
[sentimental music playing]
How about love and Buddhism?
[Dear] Love and Buddhism,
how does it work?
I mean, if
loving causes suffering,
does that mean one shouldn't love at all?
That's a good question.
- I think that
- Hey, Dear.
Do you think he did this?
DEEP DIVE: FAMOUS TEMPLE'S SISSY MONK
EATS BOYS' DICKS
Please excuse us.
[music stops]
SHIT FUCK
EATS BOYS DICKS
SISSY MONK EATS BOYS' DICKS
[Master Songchai] Take it down now.
My goodness.
What am I going to do?
You're a good-named monk.
This won't leave a mark on you.
[Master Songchai] What are you all doing?
Hurry up!
Hurry!
[Thai country song playing on speaker]
[Tang on speaker] From July 9 to 15,
please join us
for our big annual merit-making event
and cast the Buddhist Lent candle
together at Phummaram Temple.
Come and see many famous artists.
[Thai country song playing on speakers]
[joyful music playing]
[Tang on speakers] Today is a good day.
It's the start of our first annual event
here at Phummaram Temple.
The temple is going all-in
with a five-day, five-night event.
Not only that,
we also have one day of the
Buddhist Lent candle procession.
Coming here this time means that
you'll be full of merit,
full in your belly,
and most importantly,
full in your heart, folks.
Maen, you're coming here drunk again.
[laughs]
Please join us, folks. Please come this
way for flowers, incense, and candles.
I saved this as the last spot
for you ladies, that is
the donation spot,
from redeeming cattle
to the consecration ceremony.
We often get infatuated
and enjoy moments of happiness
without realizing that
[crowd screaming]
these things don't last.
So, when everything changes,
we experience suffering.
We often overlook the truth that
if something brings you happiness,
it also brings suffering.
Mrs. Wijit Kesorn, 50,000 baht.
Ms. Pranee Suetrongdee, 11,000 baht.
- Ms. Chamaiporn Klaiduang, 999,999 baht.
- Wow.
Ms. Chamaiporn Klaiduang,
also known as PCM. Ae of Samakphol Sugar,
nine hundred ninety-nine thousand
nine hundred and ninety-nine baht.
[crowd clapping and cheering]
DEPOSIT UPDATE 15:05
999,999 BAHT
[music fades]
WITHDRAW CRYPTO
WITHDRAW FIA
TRANSACTION SUCCESSFUL
ANIMALLOVELOVE
- [Monk Ekachai] Have you seen Game?
- Uh, no, I haven't.
The abbot asked me
to update the temple's bank book.
Do you have it?
I think Uncle Tang updated it.
Uh, could you please
print a donation form for me?
Of course.
[keyboard clicking]
What did you graduate in?
I didn't.
I studied computer engineering,
but didn't graduate.
[tense music playing]
What led you to work at the temple?
I didn't believe in religions.
But when I came to know Buddhism,
I felt like there's a lot more
I still don't know.
[Win] It's like I've found
some answers for myself.
But there are still questions
I want to know answers to.
and it's something very interesting.
BUDDHIST TEACHINGS
[music fades]
Your pen.
I'm returning it.
Thank you.
By the way, I've finished editing
the first episode of the podcast.
I'll send you the link later.
Thank you very much.
[soft music playing]
Uh
The question you asked me.
I have an answer to it.
[Monk Dol] It's true that
love brings happiness,
but happiness and suffering
often come together.
If you decide to love,
you need to be prepared
for suffering.
So, if you're going to love,
do it without holding on too tightly.
Don't expect the person
to be with you forever.
So,
is it like a fan's love?
If that sort of love means
not holding on too tightly,
not expecting, then it probably is.
Um.
Because no matter what happens
to the person, we won't suffer
since we know it's just the way it is.
It's impermanent.
It's temporary.
But if we hold on too tightly or expect,
we will suffer.
The truth is, nothing
can truly belong to anyone.
That is non-self.
Oh.
Honestly, what you said
is really difficult to do.
What about you?
Have you ever been in love?
[exhales softly]
[sighs]
[Monk Dol] It won't be long
until our work here is over.
[music stops]
Please enjoy.
Sure.
[car honking]
[tense music playing]
MANI THONG TEMPLE
Shit.
Sorry, excuse me.
- [Note] Here you go.
- [Game] Hey, Note.
- Have you seen Tang?
- No.
[Game] Give me the microphone.
Here.
Announcement, Mr. Chaiyong, please come
to the front of the abbot's residence
right this moment.
I repeat, Mr. Chaiyong, come to the front
of the abbot's residence now. Thank you.
[whispering] Go.
Namaskar, Master.
Why are you so skinny? Let's talk inside.
It's too hot.
Temple boys here are quite good-looking.
Hi.
[Monk] Want to sit?
I'm okay, thank you.
WHERE THE HELL ARE YOU, UNCLE TANG?
ABBOT'S RESIDENCE
MONK VEERA ITSAVARO
[Monk] The elder monks are talking.
You don't need to go in there.
Oh.
I'm the abbot's assistant.
So am I, and I'm sitting right here.
[monk] Let's sit here and wait.
[music fades]
- Uncle.
- Oh!
- Where've you been?
- Out running errands.
What errands?
Lots of them.
[door closes]
- [Master Songchai] Take care.
- [Father Kiw] I will. Thank you.
Oh, you folks,
come talk to me inside.
Okay.
[tense music playing]
I want to thank all of you
for helping to improve the temple
to where it is today.
[coughs]
I never thought our temple
would be thriving like this.
Uh
Brother, could you please
step outside for a moment?
[music stops]
I'm going to ask all of you to stop
your involvement with the temple
- [Win] Huh?
- [Game] What?
Why is that, Father?
[tense music playing]
Did you see Master Songchai
who has just left?
He's the district abbot.
He came to tell me to stop,
and he wants us to stop holding
night events like the one we're doing,
limiting to merit-making events only.
He will send a committee
to inspect our temple.
Hold on.
This is cheating.
- Why do you have to comply?
- Game.
He's a monk.
We've put in so much work.
Do you want the temple
to go back to how it was?
I'm well aware
that you folks are doing this
to make a living off my temple.
[Game] What's going on here?
Do you want a larger share,
or has Tang not given you enough?
[yelling] Game!
Tang.
[Father Kiw] Please understand me.
If I don't do this,
I'll have to go live somewhere else too.
Alright. [coughs]
That's settled then.
Also,
return the temple's bank book to me
Tang, call Ekachai in for me.
[Tang] Yes, Father.
[Win] Can we finish up with this event
as planned?
- Tang.
- [Tang] Yes?
- Lift me up.
- [Tang] Okay.
[coughs]
You do realize the temple is where it is
because of us.
[Father Kiw coughs]
[cat meowing]
[door closes]
[music stops]
What the hell, Uncle?
Shouldn't you return our money,
since you can't honor the deal?
Just calm down, alright?
Let's wait until the event is finished,
then I'll talk to the abbot myself.
And tone it down a notch, will you?
Don't come on too strong with Father.
[bird chirping]
How much cash do we have left now?
- Not enough to cover the next payment.
- And the money on Defi?
Still won't be enough.
Why does Father Kiw
have to have a problem now?
Although, it might be because of
me.
I dropped a bomb on their temple.
I knew it, you asshole.
[sighs]
Even if you didn't, they would've come
anyway, if not this temple, then another.
[somber music playing]
[Game sighs]
Then
how about we pay Father Kiw
to quit being a monk?
[Dear] You're at it again?
He won't do it.
What's the remaining debt?
[Win] More than 40 million.
Shit.
[somber music crescendos]
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
SADHU
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
[fireworks whizzing and explode]
[somber music continues]
[coughs]
[spitting]
[vomiting]
- [spitting]
- [flushing]
[somber music continues]
[man] Keep fanning, harder.
Yeah. That's it.
Will I get to eat?
Yeah, keep a steady motion.
Kai.
[music fades]
Oh, Venerable Brother.
Why eating here this late?
If we eat near the monks' residences,
the smell might tempt you guys.
Clean up after you're done
and remember to put out the fire.
Of course.
Let's dig in.
Oh, man. That was close.
[eerie music playing]
[thuds]
[eerie music crescendos]
[music stops]
[mysterious music playing]
- [Win] How much?
Twenty baht.
Pick one for me.
Here you go.
- Keep the change.
- Thank you.
Thank you.
[girl] Would you like some candy?
- Didn't have to come if you're busy.
- Bye, then.
- See you.
- Asshole.
- What the hell?
- Want a drink?
No.
It's for you.
[soft music playing]
Isn't it your birthday?
What? You remembered?
Of course, I remember, asshole.
Hey, not bad.
What's this?
A lucky stone for good luck
and smooth-running business.
Smooth, my ass. I don't want it.
It's not for you. It's for your cat.
Don't you dare throw it away.
It was pricey.
- Fine, if Salt will wear it.
- Um.
Happy birthday.
Would you please splurge a bit?
Why would I? You ain't my woman.
That's all you got for me?
- It's dry as hell.
- That's your rice.
You asshole.
[theme music playing]
THE BELIEVERS
[man] One, two
MAKING MERIT BY DONATING COFFINS
- Did you contact the USDT trader?
- Huh?
Yeah.
Yeah.
Hey, who's the new monk with Father Kiw?
I caught a glimpse of him.
His name's Ekachai.
I heard he used to be here
and went to study in Bangkok.
Will he be a problem?
Let's wait and see.
[Tang whistling Thai country song]
- [Win chuckles]
- [whistling]
Ow!
Shit.
[Game sighs]
What now?
Don't give me that look.
I'm not here to shake you down. Jeez.
Someone wants to sponsor us.
This one?
Who's she?
[Tang] A local politician.
She saw that we're good
at throwing events,
so she wants to be a regular sponsor.
[Tang laughing]
You bring in money now?
I thought you only eat money.
Hey, watch your mouth.
Only corpses eat money.
So, are you guys interested?
- Let's do it.
- [Tang laughing]
- Okay.
- Do we have enough monks' residences?
How hard can it be?
Pick a plot. Except the ordination hall.
We need to tear that down.
And once we have the plot,
have Dear design it.
I'll take care of the rest.
- [Tang] It won't be hard.
- Okay.
Okay.
REQUEST TO SERVE AS SPONSOR
FOR GROUP ORDINATION OF 16 MONKS
[electronic music playing]
[all chanting in Pali] I bow to you
with respect.
If I have ever been careless
or made a mistake
BIGGEST BUY AND SALE MARKETPLACE
PURCHASE CONFIRM
PURCHASE SUCCESSFUL
[Game] Hey.
- [Win] What?
- Do we have any more Phapa trees?
- We ran out again?
- [Game] Yeah.
- I'll order more.
- Do that.
- [Win] Um.
- Okay.
[monks chanting in Pali] May you find
happiness and prosperity.
May you flourish and thrive.
- May you be well and content.
- [coughs]
May all beings find happiness
under the Buddha's guidance.
May you flourish and thrive. May you be
Sadhu.
Sadhu.
Sadhu.
I rejoice in your merit.
[music stops]
I have some documents for you to sign.
Here you are.
Since we have many monks
residing at our temple now,
I think we need to build more residences.
- Would you handle this for me?
- Sure.
Let Monk Ekachai know
if you need anything else.
What's that medicine?
It's Chinese medicine, a tonic.
Would you like some for yourself?
- Oh.
- You've aged a lot.
- Hey, watch it.
- Tang.
He's a monk.
I'm sorry.
[suspenseful music playing]
Tell me if you need anything, Chaiyong.
I will.
[music stops]
Hi.
Exchange money?
- Yes.
- Get in.
[sighs]
- What about the rest?
- No, I'm not exchanging it.
What do you want it in?
- USDT, please.
- Okay.
[sighs]
YOS' LAWYER OFFICE
YOS' LAWYER OFFICE
CALL 084-621-3775
[tense music playing]
[Game] Oh!
How can I help you?
I'm here to see Lawyer Yos.
Lawyer Yos, a client's here to see you.
- Hello.
- Um.
[sighs]
[Yossaphat] So
Was the traffic bad?
No.
Do you like to play golf?
I don't play golf.
[Game] Then
All these
All these trophies
how did you get them?
In my line of work,
one needs to have what we call
prestige.
[tense music continues]
I see.
- Want some mango?
- No, thanks. I don't like it.
[Yossaphat] The amount you've paid
doesn't cover this month's interest.
Right.
The interest rate is 20%.
Don't you remember?
I remember.
Well, it's
very high.
I don't care whether it's high or not.
My responsibility
is to ensure the debt gets paid.
[inhales deeply]
All done.
OUTSTANDING BALANCE: 45,020,000
Okay.
I'll be on my way.
- Hang on.
- Yes?
Next time,
please try to be a bit more punctual.
You were 15 minutes late.
Sure, of course.
Take it easy, now.
Goodbye.
[music fades]
When you have wealth,
friends gaze upon you.
When tarnished,
those friends regard you as animals.
When you have nothing,
no friends seek you out.
Upon passing, even animals turn away.
May you be blessed.
Right here.
Oh, right here?
This area seems bustling now.
You're the reason
this area is beginning to thrive.
Did someone give you sugar cane drink?
Such a sweet talker.
[laughs]
Choom! Pull over.
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
VISIT, TASTE, WATCH, SHOP, JULY 9-15
[monk] Master, PCM. Ae won't be sponsoring
our temple's annual event this year.
She only donated funds for merit-making.
[suspenseful music playing]
Which temple is she sponsoring?
Just a moment.
BUDDHIST LENT EVEN
AT PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
It's in our temple network,
Phummaram Temple.
Led by Monk Veera.
Then you should find make a sign,
and look for a new sponsor,
and put it up now.
I will.
Right this moment, right now.
Right, right.
[Monk Dol] If you have come to know
Buddhism
but don't try to make use of it
by learning from Lord Buddha's teachings,
that is neglectful.
For that reason,
now that you've heard the teachings,
let's put them into practice.
- [relax music playing]
- Alright, everyone.
Close your eyes.
Let's do some meditation practice.
Behave. Listen to the monk.
Stay mindful of your breath,
be aware of your presence.
[teacher] Students,
come and line up over here.
- Namaskar.
- Greetings.
I want to ask about your availability
for recording clips and podcasts.
Can't you record during my sermons?
The audio quality isn't great,
so it's better to record separately.
When are you available?
I'm available every day.
I'm not going anywhere.
I see.
Master, Master.
[boy] My teacher wants you to sign this.
You're so pretty.
Do you have a boyfriend?
I have a bunch. Why? Wanna hit on me?
[chuckles]
Master, do you think she's pretty?
You can't ask him that.
- [Note] Dear!
- Huh?
[Note] Follow me! Hurry!
Just come and see this.
[tense music playing]
[sighs]
Shit.
I don't know how close you are with Tang,
but you can't play favorites here.
- What's this about?
- How would I know?
They requested me.
You're just lying.
You don't even know the chants.
Fallen monk!
Fallen monk, my ass!
- You fuck!
- [Tos] Stop it!
- Scum!
- [monk 1] Wait!
Get out of my way!
- [Note] Game! Step back.
- [Tos] Let go!
Let's kick his ass
[monk 2] Fucking asshole!
[monk 3] Pong, enough!
- Pong, don't!
- [Pong] You fuck!
Let go!
That's enough!
[bell chiming]
[music stops]
What are you all doing?
Do you know engaging in a physical fight
could lead you to getting defrocked?
If you're not considerate toward me,
at least be considerate toward the abbot.
[sighs]
What's this all about?
These monks keep accepting
service requests and not sparing us any.
They requested us.
What were we supposed to do?
We entered monkhood
to study Buddhist teachings,
not to exploit it for personal gain.
Have you no shame at all?
[tense music playing]
I'll discuss with the abbot
and sort this out for you.
As for all of you,
it's time for repentance.
[Monk Ekachai] From now on,
after the evening chants,
I'll post the queue of requested services
for each monk on the board every night.
Except for you,
because our monastic activities differ.
[tense music playing]
[Father Kiw coughing]
[Monk Ekachai] The problem occurred
because our temple has gotten bigger.
More monks have joined,
but we've never had a system to organize.
RULES FOR ACCEPTING REQUESTED SERVICES
All monks residing in this temple
must follow the rules
drafted by the abbot and me.
If anyone is dissatisfied
or unable to follow the rules,
the abbot is open
to allowing you to reside elsewhere
or to leave the monkhood.
That'll be all for now.
You're free to go about
your personal activities.
But let me reiterate,
don't let anything like this happen again.
[music fades]
[Father Kiw chanting in Pali] He who is
the Peaceful One.
The Worthy One,
the Perfectly Enlightened One.
[all monks] The Dharma taught
by the Blessed One is well-spoken.
- The Sangha
- [coughs]
of the Blessed One's disciples is
well-gone.
Can you continue?
I seek refuge in the Buddha,
the Dharma, and the Sangha.
With these offerings, arranged in
accordance with the Buddha's guidance,
we pay our respects.
Please come out.
Did everything go well?
Yes, everything went well.
Who has the collected merit funds?
I do.
[suspenseful music playing]
Madam Phon said that
She said that monks from our temple
could chant so beautifully.
[laughs]
That's good.
Please be our temple's eyes and ears.
The abbot said
you know every corner of the temple.
That's right. I know every corner.
You don't need to worry. [laughs]
May I be reimbursed 2,000 for gasoline?
Bring me the bill.
Look, the tower is getting destroyed.
Let's crush them, bitch. Get them.
It's getting destroyed. Get them. Idiots.
- Hello there.
- Yes?
Hello.
[Monk Ekachai] Continue playing.
I don't mind.
[sighs]
You're Game, right?
Yes.
Father said you're in charge
of temple's accounts.
I just help Uncle Tang with it.
[suspenseful music playing]
Then help me sort this money.
Here you go.
Did Uncle Tang leave that with you?
Put 1,000 baht in each envelope.
Okay.
This is the rest.
What do you want me to do with this money?
That's for temple's general funds.
You can keep it in the safe.
Okay.
And I'll need your help
to print this for me.
[Game] Sure.
If you're leaving, could I give you
documents for Father Kiw to sign?
I believe it's a sin
to have monks do things for you.
My apologies.
Give them to me.
Alright.
Here you go.
I'll print the document for you now.
- [Monk Ekachai] Please.
- Sure.
[music stops]
SRIMONGKOL
[whistling]
You're really pulling off
being a monk here.
Go. Just get lost.
Alright, Bro.
Tang, here's the money.
Did you count it?
[Tos] Come on, at this level,
no need to count.
Give me a cig.
The gold watch guy asking for a cig.
- [laughing] Is it even real?
- Oh, fuck off.
You asshole.
It's fake.
What? Where's the real one?
- I pawned it.
- Oh, shoot!
Give me a cig.
I've got none left.
[Pong] Yesterday, Ekachai fucked us up.
[Tos] Hey, Tang.
Since fucking Ekachai
took over from the abbot,
- We're gonna be screwed.
- [tense music playing]
It's so hard to get in and out
of the temple.
That's right.
He made me and Chit plant trees all day.
- If you don't believe me, ask Chit.
- Is it true, Chit?
Yeah.
- I'll crush him some day.
- Hey.
Calm down.
Just do what he says for now.
He's probably trying to
show off to the abbot.
It's better to stay in. Try not to go out.
It's nice,
more time to sleep during the day.
[Tos] That's true.
[laughs]
Hmm?
What's that sound?
- What?
- What the fuck?
Hey. Let's end it for now.
- Now, what?
- Told you he's on our side.
[indistinct chattering]
[motorcycles revving]
[tense music playing]
[Game] Hey.
[Tang] Who are they?
What the hell?
I'm so sorry about this.
It won't be like this tomorrow night.
[shouting] Hey, get the hell out of here!
- [gunshot]
- [screaming]
[motorcycles revving]
CHANNEL13
[Game] Hey, Kai, hit pause now.
Who the hell is that?
Is it a thief?
[music stops]
That's me.
I'm sorry.
[Note] It must be Singto and his crew.
They like to come in here
with their motorbikes.
Do they have so much free time?
They've been coming all week.
It's normal for them.
I don't know what they're taking now.
They're amped up non-stop.
Call the police?
Just ask the police
to set up a checkpoint.
Let's not tarnish the temple's name.
I agree.
Is it possible that
since our temple has become well-known,
other temples may have issues with us?
[Note] That's probably true.
[relax music playing]
The remaining days
of Mrs. Jamroon's funeral,
I propose we host it for them
free of charge as an apology.
What do you think?
I agree.
- [Monk Ekachai] Take care of it, Game.
- I will.
[Monk Ekachai] This way, Father.
[Win] Just let it go.
[music stops]
MAILBOX
SPECIAL CHECKPOIN
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
- [Game] Thank you.
- Sure.
[sighs]
Brother, I was wondering
why you thought that
another temple did this.
I talked to the abbot last night.
He said one big-named individual has been
sponsoring Mani Thong Temple's events.
but this year,
she switched to our temple.
So, that temple might be upset.
[truck engine revving]
[tires squealing]
[sighs]
[tense music playing]
Brother.
This PCM recently began
sponsoring events at our temple.
That's right. PCM. Ae.
She's a local politician's daughter.
Folks around here know her.
So, is there really nothing
we can do to that temple?
No, there isn't.
Their abbot is our district abbot.
- Will you excuse me?
- Of course.
[music stops]
Hey, Note.
Come here
[Note] What's up?
Do you know that temple, Mani Thong,
Thong Mani, or something?
Oh, you mean the Sissy's temple?
Sissy?
[electronic music playing]
How'd you get these?
Temple boys' group chat.
It has everything you need.
Uh hold on.
[sighs]
I need more.
Of course, sure thing.
- I'll get going, then.
- Um.
- See you at the temple.
- Yeah.
[indistinct chattering]
[man] Comp 17, you have five minutes left.
Wanna add more time?
Hey, Mullet Boy. How much for
buying out the shop for the night?
Bro, my shop is very busy.
If you take over, I'll lose my customers.
And what if
I give you 20,000 baht?
For real?
Does it look fake?
Okay.
Go ahead and use
whichever computer you want.
[on speakers] Hey, hey!
Tonight,
I'm buying out the shop
so y'all can play for free.
[boys cheering]
But
you guys gotta do me a favor.
[mouses and keyboards clicking]
There.
SISSY MONK
When you comment,
type in a bunch of nines.
[keyboard and mouse clicking]
SADHU
FUCK 999999
SADHU
F.U. 99998
- Is this okay?
- Let me see.
SISSY MONK FROM FAMOUS TEMPLE
EATS BOYS' DICKS
That's awesome.
Don't slack off, yeah?
FUCKKKKK
- See this? Fire back with an insult.
- Game on.
Get 'em.
Save this and flood the comments with it.
[boy] This one's cool, bro.
Cool, my ass. Get to work.
Keep it up, guys.
You're doing great. Keep at it.
Do you know the game "Pirate's Hell?"
[girl 1] What the fuck is that?
How about this?
DEEP DIVE: FAMOUS TEMPLE'S SISSY MONK
Hey, that's good. Post this on every page.
Every page? Okay.
- Get 'em.
- Get 'em.
DEEP DIVE: FAMOUS TEMPLE'S SISSY MONK
[music stops]
Please don't look at the camera,
just look in my direction.
- We all set?
- Yeah.
Please start.
When it comes to Buddhist holy days,
most people associate them with monks.
[text beeping]
Cut. Please wait a moment.
[Win] What the hell?
Please start over.
When it comes to Buddhist holy days,
most people associate them with monks,
so they often make merit with monks
through alms
and offerings.
But, in fact, Buddhist holy days
actually mean days of Dharma,
- [phone buzzing]
- listening to Dharma.
If you get a chance
to make merit with monks,
it's also worth finding time
to listen to Dharma.
[camera clicking]
Could you please start over
from the beginning one more time?
TEMPLE BOYS
SHIT, A WHOLE ALBUM
Always maintain a pure mind,
and you'll see that
Buddhist holy days go beyond
full moon and new moon days.
But in our minds, every day
will become a Buddhist holy day.
Okay.
How did it go?
I think it went well. I'll need to check
the footage, but it should be fine.
By the way, next time, will it be okay
to include a Q&A part at the end?
Many people have left comments
asking questions.
So, maybe you could
answer them in the next EP.
What sort of questions?
Something like
Dharma, everyday life sort of things.
Um.
Do you have any examples?
I'll search it for you.
Don't trouble yourself.
You can ask your own.
After listening to me,
is there anything you want to ask?
Oh.
Me?
Um
[sentimental music playing]
How about love and Buddhism?
[Dear] Love and Buddhism,
how does it work?
I mean, if
loving causes suffering,
does that mean one shouldn't love at all?
That's a good question.
- I think that
- Hey, Dear.
Do you think he did this?
DEEP DIVE: FAMOUS TEMPLE'S SISSY MONK
EATS BOYS' DICKS
Please excuse us.
[music stops]
SHIT FUCK
EATS BOYS DICKS
SISSY MONK EATS BOYS' DICKS
[Master Songchai] Take it down now.
My goodness.
What am I going to do?
You're a good-named monk.
This won't leave a mark on you.
[Master Songchai] What are you all doing?
Hurry up!
Hurry!
[Thai country song playing on speaker]
[Tang on speaker] From July 9 to 15,
please join us
for our big annual merit-making event
and cast the Buddhist Lent candle
together at Phummaram Temple.
Come and see many famous artists.
[Thai country song playing on speakers]
[joyful music playing]
[Tang on speakers] Today is a good day.
It's the start of our first annual event
here at Phummaram Temple.
The temple is going all-in
with a five-day, five-night event.
Not only that,
we also have one day of the
Buddhist Lent candle procession.
Coming here this time means that
you'll be full of merit,
full in your belly,
and most importantly,
full in your heart, folks.
Maen, you're coming here drunk again.
[laughs]
Please join us, folks. Please come this
way for flowers, incense, and candles.
I saved this as the last spot
for you ladies, that is
the donation spot,
from redeeming cattle
to the consecration ceremony.
We often get infatuated
and enjoy moments of happiness
without realizing that
[crowd screaming]
these things don't last.
So, when everything changes,
we experience suffering.
We often overlook the truth that
if something brings you happiness,
it also brings suffering.
Mrs. Wijit Kesorn, 50,000 baht.
Ms. Pranee Suetrongdee, 11,000 baht.
- Ms. Chamaiporn Klaiduang, 999,999 baht.
- Wow.
Ms. Chamaiporn Klaiduang,
also known as PCM. Ae of Samakphol Sugar,
nine hundred ninety-nine thousand
nine hundred and ninety-nine baht.
[crowd clapping and cheering]
DEPOSIT UPDATE 15:05
999,999 BAHT
[music fades]
WITHDRAW CRYPTO
WITHDRAW FIA
TRANSACTION SUCCESSFUL
ANIMALLOVELOVE
- [Monk Ekachai] Have you seen Game?
- Uh, no, I haven't.
The abbot asked me
to update the temple's bank book.
Do you have it?
I think Uncle Tang updated it.
Uh, could you please
print a donation form for me?
Of course.
[keyboard clicking]
What did you graduate in?
I didn't.
I studied computer engineering,
but didn't graduate.
[tense music playing]
What led you to work at the temple?
I didn't believe in religions.
But when I came to know Buddhism,
I felt like there's a lot more
I still don't know.
[Win] It's like I've found
some answers for myself.
But there are still questions
I want to know answers to.
and it's something very interesting.
BUDDHIST TEACHINGS
[music fades]
Your pen.
I'm returning it.
Thank you.
By the way, I've finished editing
the first episode of the podcast.
I'll send you the link later.
Thank you very much.
[soft music playing]
Uh
The question you asked me.
I have an answer to it.
[Monk Dol] It's true that
love brings happiness,
but happiness and suffering
often come together.
If you decide to love,
you need to be prepared
for suffering.
So, if you're going to love,
do it without holding on too tightly.
Don't expect the person
to be with you forever.
So,
is it like a fan's love?
If that sort of love means
not holding on too tightly,
not expecting, then it probably is.
Um.
Because no matter what happens
to the person, we won't suffer
since we know it's just the way it is.
It's impermanent.
It's temporary.
But if we hold on too tightly or expect,
we will suffer.
The truth is, nothing
can truly belong to anyone.
That is non-self.
Oh.
Honestly, what you said
is really difficult to do.
What about you?
Have you ever been in love?
[exhales softly]
[sighs]
[Monk Dol] It won't be long
until our work here is over.
[music stops]
Please enjoy.
Sure.
[car honking]
[tense music playing]
MANI THONG TEMPLE
Shit.
Sorry, excuse me.
- [Note] Here you go.
- [Game] Hey, Note.
- Have you seen Tang?
- No.
[Game] Give me the microphone.
Here.
Announcement, Mr. Chaiyong, please come
to the front of the abbot's residence
right this moment.
I repeat, Mr. Chaiyong, come to the front
of the abbot's residence now. Thank you.
[whispering] Go.
Namaskar, Master.
Why are you so skinny? Let's talk inside.
It's too hot.
Temple boys here are quite good-looking.
Hi.
[Monk] Want to sit?
I'm okay, thank you.
WHERE THE HELL ARE YOU, UNCLE TANG?
ABBOT'S RESIDENCE
MONK VEERA ITSAVARO
[Monk] The elder monks are talking.
You don't need to go in there.
Oh.
I'm the abbot's assistant.
So am I, and I'm sitting right here.
[monk] Let's sit here and wait.
[music fades]
- Uncle.
- Oh!
- Where've you been?
- Out running errands.
What errands?
Lots of them.
[door closes]
- [Master Songchai] Take care.
- [Father Kiw] I will. Thank you.
Oh, you folks,
come talk to me inside.
Okay.
[tense music playing]
I want to thank all of you
for helping to improve the temple
to where it is today.
[coughs]
I never thought our temple
would be thriving like this.
Uh
Brother, could you please
step outside for a moment?
[music stops]
I'm going to ask all of you to stop
your involvement with the temple
- [Win] Huh?
- [Game] What?
Why is that, Father?
[tense music playing]
Did you see Master Songchai
who has just left?
He's the district abbot.
He came to tell me to stop,
and he wants us to stop holding
night events like the one we're doing,
limiting to merit-making events only.
He will send a committee
to inspect our temple.
Hold on.
This is cheating.
- Why do you have to comply?
- Game.
He's a monk.
We've put in so much work.
Do you want the temple
to go back to how it was?
I'm well aware
that you folks are doing this
to make a living off my temple.
[Game] What's going on here?
Do you want a larger share,
or has Tang not given you enough?
[yelling] Game!
Tang.
[Father Kiw] Please understand me.
If I don't do this,
I'll have to go live somewhere else too.
Alright. [coughs]
That's settled then.
Also,
return the temple's bank book to me
Tang, call Ekachai in for me.
[Tang] Yes, Father.
[Win] Can we finish up with this event
as planned?
- Tang.
- [Tang] Yes?
- Lift me up.
- [Tang] Okay.
[coughs]
You do realize the temple is where it is
because of us.
[Father Kiw coughs]
[cat meowing]
[door closes]
[music stops]
What the hell, Uncle?
Shouldn't you return our money,
since you can't honor the deal?
Just calm down, alright?
Let's wait until the event is finished,
then I'll talk to the abbot myself.
And tone it down a notch, will you?
Don't come on too strong with Father.
[bird chirping]
How much cash do we have left now?
- Not enough to cover the next payment.
- And the money on Defi?
Still won't be enough.
Why does Father Kiw
have to have a problem now?
Although, it might be because of
me.
I dropped a bomb on their temple.
I knew it, you asshole.
[sighs]
Even if you didn't, they would've come
anyway, if not this temple, then another.
[somber music playing]
[Game sighs]
Then
how about we pay Father Kiw
to quit being a monk?
[Dear] You're at it again?
He won't do it.
What's the remaining debt?
[Win] More than 40 million.
Shit.
[somber music crescendos]
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
SADHU
PHUMMARAM TEMPLE
[fireworks whizzing and explode]
[somber music continues]
[coughs]
[spitting]
[vomiting]
- [spitting]
- [flushing]
[somber music continues]
[man] Keep fanning, harder.
Yeah. That's it.
Will I get to eat?
Yeah, keep a steady motion.
Kai.
[music fades]
Oh, Venerable Brother.
Why eating here this late?
If we eat near the monks' residences,
the smell might tempt you guys.
Clean up after you're done
and remember to put out the fire.
Of course.
Let's dig in.
Oh, man. That was close.
[eerie music playing]
[thuds]
[eerie music crescendos]
[music stops]
[mysterious music playing]