In an alternate universe where Thailand is perpetually rainy and soulmates exist, La Pluie traces the story of Tai, who suffers from sensorineural hearing loss every time it rains. The only voice he can hear then is that of his soulmate, but he is adamant about not giving said soulmate a chance due to having seen his parents’ (who are also soulmates) relationship deteriorate.

He also coincidentally meets Phat, a veterinarian, and is quick to realise that Phat is his soulmate. Despite his unwillingness to talk to his soulmate in the two years their link was established, Tai starts liking Phat pretty much immediately, although Phat dashes his hopes soon by communicating through the link that he has found “the one”. Phat falls for Tai without realising they are soulmates, Tai falls for Phat because he knows they are. Misunderstandings to the max.

Title Tanatorn is extremely charming as Tai, and his actions are endearing to see, even when he is being obtuse about not wanting to get to know his soulmate. Pee Peerawich as Phat hasn’t done much except flirt with Tai, smirk, and in one scene, pose exactly like a cartoonish movie villain, turning in a chair while stroking a white cat on his lap. But they do have potential to be a very cute pairing and I am excited for their relationship to bloom.

The other couple in the show is Tai’s brother Tien (played by Suar Kritsanaphong) and his classmate Lomfon (Copter Nuntapong), who have an antagonistic relationship with one another till now. All four of them are also caught up in a convoluted mess of sorts as Lomfon develops feelings for Tai from the beginning.

La Pluie has every trope a fanfic lover such as myself is familiar with. There’s coffee shops, soulmates, and love at first sight. What’s not to like?

So far, only Lomfon has been a bit of a weak link. It seems like Copter hasn’t completely settled in the role. He is stiff in his delivery, and doesn’t emote a lot with his face, which is especially glaring given that he is mostly paired with Suar and Title, both of whom are noticeably more believable as their characters and are a lot more expressive in their acting. Since the others all have had a few roles under their belt, and he is the only newcomer, it’s obvious there is a difference in experience, but I am looking forward to see if his acting chops improve later in the series.

All in all, it is definitely chock full of tropes, but if that is up your alley, and you are in the mood for a light hearted story (that will soon delve into drama if the trailer is any indication), give La Pluie a go.

Rating: 4.25 out of 5

Streaming on- iQIYI