Game Changer
At first I didn't know what to expect but...they got me. Excellent series. I don't know what else to say but let me start with the basics...First up - the performances. Gun's double performance absolutely caught me off guard. Two completely different characters, both of them top notch performances (Gun as a badass action hero...whoa! Who saw that coming?). And the rest of the cast isn't too shabby either. Watching Off go from dripping with contempt for Black, to wondering what the heck is up with Black to falling for Black to - THE BIG REVEAL! - his expressions just say it all. There's the second tier couple - Dan and Yok - that are so well written (down to the bitter end) that I was rooting for them no matter what turn the story took. They're my second favourite side couple of...ever(!)...right behind Uncles Cheep and Dej in "My Ride" (but that's for another day). Then there's the understated performance of Papang as "Gumpa" - the glue who holds this entire thing together. Love him.
On top of that here, is so much that I did not expect: - Politics, Disillusionment, Rebellion and Art as a means of Protest. There's so much more, but I refuse to spoil the experience for anyone.
Well, 2022 has been an exceptional year for GMMTV, that's for certain - with their stories of Anarchy in Thailand, Ageing and facing one's own Mortality "55:15", a Romeo and Jules Love Story ("Bad Buddy") and their Epic
production of "F4 Thailand". I hope they can keep it up 'cause I'm rooting for them.
There's so little else to say about "Not Me" except I love! LOVE!! L.O.V.E!!! it!!!!!!
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I quite liked it, it definitely deserves the hype.
I liked the acting (except Fluke, he was again painful to watch). I also like the dynamic of the gang & the bromance between the brothers. Whitesean was pretty cute, had good chemistry and dynamic, the relationship felt wholesome. I would have loved yokdan more (a cute love at first sight story), if Dan's character would have been played correctly...I like the social criticism aspect and the message the story delivered, especially since it's about Thailand, one of the highly corrupt countries.
I wouldn't say that the series is perfect, but definitely good and worth watching.
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This review may contain spoilers
More than a BL, it's truly a Legacy in the making...
As an avid fan of Gun and Off projects and unique bond, I was looking forward for Not Me release. And all I can say is that it was worth the wait. It's under a great screenwriter and director guidance like P' Nuchy that this project was able to succeed.Not Me has set the bar up high, direction and production wise. It definitely excels in those departments. The cinematography is really good here, and although some shots were definitely filmed up-close the subjects in certain scenes, even those were premeditated. Most likely to make the viewer become immersed within the characters feelings and actions.
Gun just prove everyone his talent with acting, by not only playing a double role in the set of twins. But also by making them so distinct that even I, and well, presumably everyone who watches this series will be able to tell who is who and see two completely different characters, to the point of taking sides or rooting for both in their own way. That is a hard task to achieve and yet he did it so well, almost looking so effortlessly when I bet it was the labor of his dedication to the project.
By giving them their own personalities Gun was able to set them apart, and sometimes even without saying a single word. Just one glance suffices, mainly when it comes to Black.
"Bravery and fear, I think these two things are the complete opposite. However, they can't remain apart.
We can't be brave without fear. But being brave with no fear is like an explosive with no target." - White
White is soft spoken and composed. Black is without a doubt a force to reckon with.
"In that moment, I realized if he's the bravery, I must be the fear." - White
Sean has got to be the most challenging character Off has ever made, and probably - just like the set of twins are to Gun, - this one will remain unforgettable. Since it's a broken and more serious role, unlike his early projects. At the same time it really made Off grow to improve his acting skills. It's not only the chemistry and him being at ease with Gun that allowed him to do that, but his own commitment to the role and to the tasks he was given when he enrolled in this series. By doing all that Off was able to incarnate the impulsive Sean with his anger and resentment, eager for revenge.
Until he gets swayed by the only one who can calm down the storm that he carries within his heart.
"This is the goal that keeps me alive, and you are too." - Sean
The characters complexity within this series is what makes it all more interesting. Therefore, I only have to point out a flaw here, because by having only 14 episodes, that were not enough screen time to exploit the mysteries of some characters more than others. At the same time that seemingly aura of mystery that enlaces those characters allures us more to them.
Be it the always resourceful and intriguing - Gumpa - owner of the garage where the gang meets.
"If you want to change anything, you must have enough power." - Todd
"Power is corrupting." - Black
Or even unveiling more of Todd and Black's friendship, one that has it's levels of toxicity, since they don't seem able to get on the same grounds but at the same time there's a bond between them that makes them connected to each other. I admit, that I like the tension their scenes behold, almost like there is something else lingering in those desperate and dark glances, and into the feeling of betrayal they both have by witnessing how their actions and choices made them grow apart over the years.
"What we should do is find common ground to live together in peace." - Todd
One thing for sure, is that Not Me is a continuity plot. Driven to expose the corrupts of the system and that no matter who opposes or who surpasses who, there will always be corruption when there is power involved. It's a never ending cycle.
So, this wasn't all about being able to destroy that conviction.
But to gain awarness of the reality of this situation that happens worldwide.
Another flaw I have to point out. Is the way they made Gram in here. Mond has bad luck with his characters.
The ridiculously sick puppy love without an ounce of chemistry between them, made me roll my eyes out in their scenes.
Despite trying to be symbolic and balance the series with several types of love and equality. Gram's odd pursue, almost seemed like an obsession rather than love. To crave someone's girlfriend, and your best friend no less was low enough but the course of actions in all the wrong timings made it all worse. It's a downgrade of a character that had potential, and significance too. Not sure what made the screenwriters made this choice, but it's obvious that it's forced attraction and love. It's like a filler in plot. It upsets me that it had more screen time than other potential interesting characters, like Yok and Dan or even Black and Todd.
"Don't follow me, if you want no regrets." - Dan
Dan and Yok. It's hard not to love these two artistic souls.
"You can't run away from me. You know that, don't you?" - Yok
First and Fluke gave us that typical troupe of criminal/delinquent and good cop.
More than that they presented us love at first sight, and communication within their honest artworks and heartfelt confessions. Just like White is the one who can warm Sean's cold heart, Yok is able to pull Dan from his own guilty torment and give him a shred of hope for a better future ahead of them. I have not enough words to express their relationship, - much less about this whole series :') - from Yok's sassy behavior to Dan's calm nature, and well just with their loving glances, soft touches, to the heartbreaking tears of betrayal and the tough decisions into self-sacrifices made.
A scene can't break your heart.
The scene:
"Finally, you get to arrest me for real." - Yok
"I'm sorry I failed you. The more you try to escape, the more dangerous it is for you." - Dan
"Do you remember what you told me?
You told me not to look for you if I wanted no regrets. I should have believed you then." - Yok
Not Me has such a deep symbolic value within the hints it gives throughout the plot scenes and lines of the characters. It hits differently than most dramas or BLs even. Because its based on a judicial and political activism plot, and set on sensible and important topics happening in Thailand, but at the same time relatable to the rest of the world. It walks the fine line of using a more realistic plot and bring upon important questions and themes that need utter attention and respect.
Even better than all of this is the exceptional OST with hit songs in which the lyrics match the scenes and story well. From original song by Off Gun, for example, to international hits that boosts the artists by having their works into this production.
Definitely a must watch. It gives an impression. There's always a moral lesson to behold upon.
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OffGun remains ELITE
OffGun strikes again as a powerhouse duo in another amazing BL! I loved everything about this series. The story was something totally new and it had me filled with anticipation every episode. I'm used to Off's tough exterior, but to see Gun be anything more than a cute fluff had me in awe. The side couple got some good scenes, but I definitely want more of them and the rest of the cast. Visuals for miles and you can relate to at least one character which makes this not only an amazing drama but a relatable series. There's confident females, broken souls, crooked corporations and more all tied together into this epic drama that I'd totally recommend to any and all.The last ep seemed a bit rushed but ended well in sense of logic
Enjoy...
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My new rewatch show
I was so hesitant to watch this show as it isn't my normal kind of drama I go for, but oh my days....From the first episode I was absolutely hooked, the music gave me life and the actors are an all time fav!
It's one of those shows that I like to binge watch when I'm in just the right mood, you definitely want to watch it pretty rapidly to keep the flow of the emotion.
And that's exactly what this show did for me. Everything made me feel bittersweet, but in a good way. It made me feel both the losses in life and the hope for a better future. If I had to describe this show I'd say it feels like the moment right before dawn. That moment when the world is the quietest, the air feels chilly and the knowing that another day has left you, but a new day is right around the corner to shed light and warmth upon you again. That's what this entire show made me feel like. It made me want to feel alive.
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This review may contain spoilers
This is undoubtedly my favourite Thai drama.
Before we get into this, I just have to say, I've been watching Asian dramas (specifically Korean) for about 7 years now. I've seen my fair share of trash shows that are only carried by romance. I've only just recently begun watching Thai dramas. For the most part, I've been underwhelmed by some of the Thai dramas I have seen. However, 'Not Me' hits practically every mark and gave me nearly everything I wanted from it.STORY:
Every Thai drama I have seen has had such a lacklustre story. I firmly believe a show or film cannot be entirely carried by romance. Though this show does a spectacular job of balancing both plot and romance. I know a lot of you watch Thai BL specifically for the romantic relationships. However, it's refreshing to be just as interested in the main lovers as the story they find themselves entangled in. 'Not Me' strives to give you more than just Asian twinks falling in love. It feels less like its profiting from the LGBT community and more like it's supporting it and adding to the overall conversation. The LGBT rally scene is easily in my top five favourite scenes from the show. As a queer person myself, I know what it feels like to stand with my community like that; it's euphoric. I know Sean and White felt the same. The show's activism doesn't stop there, though. 'Not Me' incorporates themes relating to corrupt justice systems, police brutality, and socio-political discourse within Thai communities.
If you want to actually engage with a show beyond frothing at the mouth over boy kissing, then this is definitely the show for you. If you just want to watch gay dudes making out, then this is also the show for you because there's a healthy amount of that too!
ACTING:
Hats off to Gun for convincingly playing twins. I think a close comparison would be Armie Hammer's performance as the Winklevoss twins in 'The Social Network'. You know it's just one actor, but they've done such a good job you honestly forget it's not real after a while. Seeing the twins together was always such a spectacle because Gun managed to create two completely different and independent characters. When White was impersonating his brother, he never managed to perfect Black's glare. He was obviously soft, not just in his actions but in how he spoke. He was only ever harsh when he realised he wasn't acting like his brother. Black is entirely different; you couldn't help but feel wary whenever he was on screen. Overall, every actor brought their A-game. I was never underwhelmed by an actor's performance. Off was exceptional in every scene he was in. Sean is no doubt my favourite character in the show.
I feel like everyone and their grandma has said this but the chemistry between Off and Gun is off the charts. Even before they started to like each other, I thoroughly enjoyed watching them clash. But their romantic relationship was definitely a standout performance from the two. The way they interacted as partners felt real; every touch, hug, and kiss didn't seem like carefully plotted actions from a script but rather real actions made my two people who love each other. The realness of their intimacy sometimes made me feel like I shouldn't be watching. It was beautiful and I'm sure Off and Gun's real-life friendship is just as beautiful.
MUSIC:
I won't say too much about music but in most Thai shows I tend to cringe at the dramatics whenever the music kicks in. However, I knew this show would be different barely 10 minutes in, during the scene where White comes home for the first time. He becomes immersed in a fond memory of his brother. In the memory, the soft acoustic guitar cuts out towards the end but then earnestly fades back in when we see White's fond smile, the words "where are you" being sung. It's a gorgeous scene and really set the tone for White and Black's relationship. This type of music prevails throughout the show, with the exception of occasional campy musical accompaniment. It's a Thai show, after all, they gotta be campy sometimes.
REWATCH VALUE:
I'll say one thing on the matter...I binged episodes 1-12 in one day, then rewatched the entire show not even a week later due to my impatience for the 14th episode. The likelihood of me rewatching this in the near future is high.
I feel like I may have gone overboard for this review but I was just so pleasantly surprised by this drama. By the end, I loved every character (some more than others...I'm looking at you, Sean). I tend not to care about the side characters in BL dramas but that was NOT the case here. The show never felt low quality, in terms of music, acting, set pieces, costuming, script, etc. It was a high-quality show that deserves neverending praise. The ending was satisfying but I definitely wouldn't say no to seeing these characters again.
Give it a watch! You won't regret it.
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stunning portrayal of corruption within society
this show is an absolute masterpiece. and i’m not trying to put that lightly.it tackles politics, corruption, human rights, capitalism, morals, etc. and i think its the beginning of a new genre of bls. (i don't even think it should be limited to just a bl, its an inclusive lgbtq+ series)
if you’re not one for politics, this isn’t for you. the political nature of this show is one of the reasons why this show is so good, as a lot of shows don’t like to tackle more controversial themes in order for more people to enjoy it.
i think every single aspect of this show is stunning. from the lack of covering up blemishes on the actors’ skin, showing the trauma that comes from losing a parent tragically, betrayal and distrust, exploring different ways to make change in your country, accurate depictions of pain, grief, and love. just… everything. not to mention the gorgeous cinematography and ost.
the director, screenwriter(s), actors, and everyone who worked on it did such an amazing job.
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This review may contain spoilers
Arguably the best BL to date?
I really enjoy the change from typical highschool/university BLs to a more realistic and heavy genre. Not Me touches on the hardships that may be faced by many people such as corruption, economic discrimination and sexual orientation discrimination. The acting is immaculate and to be honest, alot better to what I am used to when watching thai dramas. The small details within Not Me are really what ties this whole show together.*Not only the chemistry between Gun/White was addictive to watch but I enjoyed the chemistry between Dan/Yok as well, although I did not care too much for the others. Gun's acting of the opposing personalities of Black and White was so unbelievably good and very convincing.
*I loved the slow progression of enemies to friends and confusion to lovers and how loyal the characters were towards each-other (well mostly...) but were able to experience many heartwarming moments afterwards.
*[SPOILER] Although a straight, cis person, I was hit deeply when White and Sean walked hand in hand underneath the pride flag and cried so much, it was simply so beautiful and a wonderful representation of the meaning of pride of your sexuality. A very memorable moment along with the trust fall and the braveness jump.
*I am desperately waiting for myself to slowly forget fragments of what happened in this drama so I can watch it again in which I can see myself doing many times.
Although I cruised through this drama in the first few episodes due to a busy schedule, I binge watched this show til extremely early hours of the morning when I had time. I have not watched a drama in so long that has left such a heavy impact in which I find myself thinking about nearly each day. I can't wait for more dramas with similar scenarios which are currently being aired or have already been released in which I am yet to watch, or any in the future, along with more Off/Gun to look forward to.
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Watch it!!!! ( writing review for the first time)
I usually don't rewatch Bls but NOT ME is the only Bl tht i re-watched!!! This show is the best bl tht i hv watched its not the typical cheesy bl tht we watch....OFFGUN'S chemistry is just so...i hv no words!!!! One of my fav ships. Their relationshipis just so healthy and non toxic...the typical enemies to lovers trope. And the side couples ( second lead couples) omg im in love with them. This drama has everything crime, rom-com, thriller mystery. They hv released only 11 eps till now :"( i am not ready for this show to end T-T. And man oh man the leads are just so hot O_o. ACTING; TOP NOTCH QUALITY. You will never get tored of watching it . ENOUGH SAID. JUST GO WATCH IT!!!!!!Was this review helpful to you?
A group of social reformers but comes in gay
Before I say anything about the series I want to acknowledge their makeup team. That might be weird but it'll be a crime not to. Their whole makeup team did an amazing job on the whole cast. You can even see their pores and bumps and acnes which is not a common thing to see in Thai dramas even east Asians dramas in general which eventually made everything look way more realistic. Kudos to the whole team.Then I'll come to the music. (I know I'm weird but it needs to be addressed) Every single song, music, tune they used for so perfectly to every single scene. The oyeoyeoye tune is still ringing in my ears. Again a 10 on 10 performance.
Then comes CHEMISTRYYYYY. OffGun have always had a great chemistry but in not me they outdid themselves. There wasn't a single awkward moment between them. Even between the second couple. It just happened so naturally. I hate to compare things but for sure it made me feel like watching western tv shows. No awkwardness and all. The straight couples were kinda off though. Black/Eugene and Gram/Eugene but I think it was tolerable somewhat. Usually it's opposite. The direction was so smooth that it made me feel I'm watching them in front of me.
The story was something new for a BL drama. Not an unique plot obviously but not "not enjoyable" as well. Who doesn't enjoy evil rich exploiters getting smashed. Overall it's 10 on 10.
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This review may contain spoilers
Not Me deserves its praise.
I waited a long time to watch this show when it first started airing, after watching the trailer etc it didn’t seem like a show I would be as invested in as I became. Everyone was blasting about how amazing it was and I completely caved shortly after episode 10 aired, and well…I was hooked after that!As someone who is apart of the LGBTQ+ community and went through the struggle of dealing with gay marriage not being legal in my own country, I felt like the sentiment and conversation about that topic was realistic and held at a high standard. Finding a show that talks realistically about those topics is rare and refreshing. Not only was the depiction of the fight for LGBTQ+ rights realistic but the actual queer relationships shown were realistic. While I understand why this show is under the BL umbrella, it almost just falls under an LGBTQ+ label, and I find those to almost be separate genres. The lack of tropes and added realism really made me invested in the relationships between all the characters, and none of the drama felt unnecessary.
The acting in this show was phenomenal, while I’ve always loved Guns acting, his abilities really showed. When he was playing each twin, you could easily tell who he was, both twins were distinctly different. Major props to him for the fantastic performance. The rest of the cast really out did themselves, and those who I have seen be okay-ish in other series really gave their all in this one and it really shows. Props to everyone, genuinely.
My only issue with this series is how rushed the ending was, because it really felt like we were bolting to the finish line. After such a wonderfully paced show, the very last episode felt very fast paced and sorta like a scramble to tie up everything. In everyone’s defense, they had a TON of loose endings to tie up, but I wish we got to see more of the tie ups if that makes sense? I feel like maybe even making the last episode 15 minutes longer would have helped. Regardless, the ending was alright and I’m happy with it, just felt rushed and it threw off the pacing of the show.
Overall, Not Me has become one of my favorite shows of all time. From the soundtrack I can’t stop listening to, to the visuals and story I can’t stop thinking about, it will be a show I constantly revisit and enjoy.
If you are thinking about watching it, I recommend!
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Came for OffGun, stayed for everything else
I’ve seen quite a fair bit of Thai BLs, and Not Me definitely stands out.Whether or not you agree with the methods used by the characters in furthering their cause is, in fact, irrelevant. The point is this: The world we inhabit doesn’t exist in absolute terms. No black or white, only varying shades of grey. And it is the portrayal of these uncomfortable moral ambiguities that makes Not Me so nuanced and unique.
Not Me shows that good things take time. And are most definitely worth the wait.
Gun is phenomenal as usual, playing two completely distinct roles within the same series must have been mentally wrecking. But of notable mention here is Off – if Theory of Love was Gun’s first BL series to shine, Not Me was a platform both both Gun and Off to display their acting chops. Together, they have outdone themselves.
No doubt I came for OffGun, but I actually stayed for everything else. The series is intensely cinematic. The story is well-paced, compelling and profound (some dialogue exchanges like “We can’t be brave without fear” were rather poetic).
And the romance. Goodness, the delicious tension that builds up to an explosive romance. The romance is always better with rebels. Living (and loving) like every day is going to be their last. In Not Me, it’s not just about two good looking people getting together. I love that the relationships are characterised by deep emotional connection and intensity, longing and togetherness.
BL aside, Not Me is a visually stunning, profoundly propulsive tale about the nexus of power in Thai society and the invisible forces that govern realities. Unlike other fluffy, wholesome BLs, the romance unfolds with the theatre of politics as a backdrop. It delves into thorny and highly political issues like rule of law and rule by law, corruption, inequalities and oppression of marginalised groups.
In essence, Not Me is highly political, reflecting the zeitgeist of the woke generation.
Read my review: https://asianblreviews.wordpress.com/2022/03/20/not-me-2021-review-among-the-best-thai-bls/
Read my elaboration on why Not Me is so much better than the usual BL: https://asianblreviews.wordpress.com/2022/03/19/why-not-me-is-unlike-your-typical-bl-but-so-much-better/
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