Human Resource, directed by Nawapol Thamrongrattanarit, offers a striking view of our capitalist world. It shines a light on the struggles of good people trying to navigate a harsh reality.
In a haunting opening scene, we see an ultrasound image—a tiny dot that represents hope for Fren (Prapamonton Eiamchan), who is just one month pregnant. Her doctor reminds her to stay positive, but that’s not easy for her. Outside her personal life, news reports talk of looming threats—a dangerous disease and the presence of microplastics in food. Meanwhile, Fren’s husband, Thame (Paopetch Charoensook), is busy chasing sensational stories, highlighting a society obsessed with shock value.
At her HR job, Fren faces a recruitment dilemma. New hires are more demanding, expecting higher pay and work-life balance. It’s a stark contrast to younger candidates who are willing to sacrifice their rights for a fleeting chance at success. This dilemma reflects a broader trend where workers are often pitted against their own well-being in the corporate grind.
The film raises important questions about the world Fren will bring her child into. In Thailand, women have only three months to decide on an abortion, adding urgency to her situation. As Fren grapples with her choices, we see her world filled with anger and entitlement, echoing real societal issues we face today.
“It has been almost two years,” Thame says to Fren, questioning their life together. This moment forces Fren to confront her decision, reflecting the internal conflicts many share in today’s fast-paced life.
The film captures a bleak reality, but it’s not without dark humor. The cinematography by Natdanai Naksuwarn creates a captivating atmosphere. We feel intimately connected to Fren and Thame’s journey, making their struggles resonate with us.
The storytelling invites us to reflect on what it means to be a decent person. Fren lists qualities like knowledge, strength, and selflessness, highlighting how far removed they seem from the world they inhabit. This touchstone makes us consider our values and the environment that shapes them.
This societal critique is timely, especially as the workforce evolves. A 2022 survey by Gallup revealed that 76% of employees feel burned out, which echoes the film’s themes of frustration and disconnection. Young workers today seek purpose, not just a paycheck, which makes Fren’s struggle feel all the more relevant.
Nawapol Thamrongrattanarit delves deep into themes of capitalism and personal rights through this thought-provoking narrative. There are no easy answers, but the film’s message is clear: the world isn’t designed with empathy in mind, and the humans within it are paying the price.