After no one went home last week, we began week two with a full cast. I think it’s good that no one got the chop, as it allows the viewers more time to get to know the cast more. Especially after such a long wait for the season to air. With a heated discussion about who they think should’ve won and whether their concept was wet or dry, Pangina arrives to give their mini challenge. Before revealing it, she asks if they’re relieved the talent show is over—and shadily asking if they were happy with the winner. Iconic.
In quick drag, the queens have to form a conga line and shimmy under the pit crew’s arms. Once the gates (arms) drop, they are out. It’s probably one of the most random mini-challenges I think we’ve seen; it’s reminiscent of school playground games. Which I believe is a traditional Thai game called Ree Ree Khaosarn, where they sing about harvesting rice. The winner is Nane Sphera, and this week we are having a ball! It’s a pageant consisting of three themes: swimming outta-space, in national costume is Thai futuristic, and finally E.T.-vening gown—we love a pun.
I’m intrigued to see how this will pan out, as past seasons are known for some fantastic outfits, and of course pageants are a big staple in many countries. Of course it wouldn’t be a Drag Race without a little twist; for the final category, the queens must construct their outfit out of materials provided for them. All three looks must have a cohesive futuristic theme and must combine Thai loincloths and local Thai goods to create their third look. As the mini-challenge winner, Nane gets the first pick of what she wants. She already knows what she wants and has a colour palette vision in mind; she also gets to pick the objects for the queen—some of it seems a little harsh. Challenging them to be creative.
Pangina arrives to offer some advice and take a look at the queens’ designs; Spicy Sunshine seems confident, while Shortgun is challenged to improve her runway walk. Pangina plays the role of loving but firm teacher, dishing advice carefully and calmly. We don’t see too many sneak peeks into their progress, but the presence of the glue gun features prominently for several queens. Spicy Sunshine and Frankie Wonga also take a moment to reconcile over their earlier chat about Spicy Sunshine wanting to eliminate her following her win.
On the runway, Pangina is looking gorgeous, looking like an elegant French queen. This week’s guest judges are Pompam Niti and Miss Universe Thailand, Maria Poonlertlap. Now, some of the looks for the first category for swimsuits are a bit odd, but they are futuristic, so I will give the benefit of the doubt. Gigi Ferocious stands out for not coming out in an obvious two-piece and instead opting for a scuba-inspired outfit.
The second category is when things really step up gear and the fashion arrives. Nane Sphera looks gorgeous in a silver traditional headdress. Frankie Wonga is the Master Variant of the Deccan and nails the challenge dominating the runway. From head to toe, the detail is insane and has the judges clapping and screaming drag excellence. I feel bad for the following contestants having to come out after such a perfect look. Zepee is another one that brings tradition to the forefront and looks amazing, as does Siam PhuSri. When seeing traditional elements executed so well, and when done right, it’s truly unforgettable.
Finally, we get to see the results of their designs and sewing, and Gigi looks great—she really brought her drawing to life. All the queens did a great job at incorporating their materials, considering most looked impossible to turn into fashion. Overall, it was a great ball, and we saw some fantastic looks, which the Thailand franchise is known for.
The winner of this week’s challenge is Nane Sphera. It was a great week for her, but it did surprise me. I thought it would go to Frankie, but it was well deserved nonetheless. This leaves the bottom two, Srirasha Hotsauce, once again, and Spicy Sunshine, which again was a surprise. I don’t think my instincts for the tops and bottoms have adjusted yet. This week, they’ll be lip-syncing to Boon by Maria Lynn Ehren. Spicy Sunshine has a bit more of an edge on stage, even doing the worm, while Srirasha brings humour and quirky touches to her performance. An emotional Spicy Sunshine is told to shantay, leaving Srirasha to sashay away. Some beautiful words of advice are delivered from Art to not be discouraged.
So, the six years were worth it, right? Catch Drag Race Thailand every Wednesday at 5am PT//7am ET on @wowpresentsplus worldwide.
