My wish is for more series starring these actors

I kept on putting this series off because I enjoyed watching Earth and Mix in A Tale of Thousand Stars, one of the best BL series out there and didn’t want to ruin the pleasure I had experiencing their chemistry and the amazing story-line. But then I allowed myself to binge watch this and well this ain’t ATOTS. I am not saying its bad but it doesn’t compare to ATOTS.

Body swap genre is nothing new. I, myself have seen 3 other series on this before but only 1 of them was strictly BL. The story is Korn and Win are best of friends from childhood but due to the death of Win’s father leaving a quarter of his dairy farm to Korn, it causes Win to suspect that Korn tried to dupe his father to get his wealth. He cuts all his ties with Korn and even forbids his family to contact Korn. However, one day when he finds his sister Lin doing business with Korn, he rushes to Korn dragging Lin along and meets with an accident. After waking up Win realises that he is trapped in Lin’s body and to save himself and his sister he has to gather holy water from 4 temples within 7 days. Thus starts the adventurous road trip of Win and Korn.

As usual Earth and Mix have done a great job in this series. Their chemistry is exceptionally good and they played their part well. Unlike his previous role in ATOTS, Mix had to be loud and obnoxious as well as caring and understanding. At first I thought, he wouldn’t be able to pull this off but was I happy to be wrong. Mix for me stole the show. Seeing him in ATOTS and Fish Upon the Sky, I am glad to say that he has improved his acting skills. Earth has not disappointed me so far in all the series that I have seen him in. The road trip although fun and has a lot of comedic moments, at the back of our mind we all know that time is limited and there is a high stake here. In addition, the story introduces 2 antagonists and I feel they have not been used well in the series. They could have impacted the story way more but they were designated as minor characters who take significant action almost at the end of the series with no consequences.

Body swap genre comes with its own set of difficulties. You usually need actors that can play the part of the other character in order to convince the audience that the souls have indeed switched. One of the series that does this well is “Kamisama no Ekohiiki” another BL series. In this one however, they made a smart choice of showing Mix most of the time in order to remind the audience that its Win in Lin’s body and Korn is always interacting with Win and also now they don’t have to worry about a female character acting all manly.

In conclusion, the series is worth giving a try because of its actors Earth and Mix and some good cinematography. You too are taken on a journey across Thailand and you see the caves and beaches and hills and food. Lots and Lots of food. Now I am waiting to see these actors grace my screen again with Moonlight Chicken

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A genuine struggle to keep the relationship going

This series ventures to explain a relationship between 2 unequal people all from mostly the perspective of Hira who is the most self-deprecating person I have ever seen. What do you do when you fall in love with a person who puts you on a pedestal and almost worships the ground you walk on. Could you even continue being with the person or leave out of sheer frustration.

In every episode you see Hira acting like his old self again where he idolises Kiyoi and considers himself unworthy of his affection thereby putting a strain on their relationship. He fears that this handsome man will leave him someday and he will lose all purpose in life. This fear has such a grip on him that he fails to understand Kiyoi’s feelings and you can’t help but feel bad for him. He wants Hira to have some confidence in himself and be with him as his equal.

The four episode mini series is all about this relationship between the two people who struggle to keep their relationship going against every effort of Hira to stay emotionally distant and Kiyoi to keep pursuing him. All this while Kiyoi is realising his dream of becoming a famous actor loved and adored by people.

Hagiwara Riku does a great job playing Hira, a character who is broken to the point of being pitiful. He has such low confidence that he uses derogatory terms towards himself. He knows he loves Kiyoi but doesn’t expect that feeling to be reciprocated and even fails to accept it when Kiyoi does tell him that he likes him. Kudos to Yagi Yusei playing Kiyoi, a struggling actor who is trying to find a footing in the industry and being in love with a guy so oblivious that it irks him many a times. He is still hopeful that one day Hira will acknowledge his feelings and accept him as his equal.

You need to watch this series for the great portrayal of a hopeless relationship between a beautiful actor and awkward photographer.

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Japan delivers again one of the most wholesome BL series

This is just one of those series that makes you draw a smile every minute that you are watching it and when it ends you just want more. Story-wise you will find it's about two childhood friends whose paths cross again when they are adults, one who wants to be a successful idol and the other who wants to be a successful doujinshi artist. Their dreams are somehow tied to their past selves and is unravelled as the series moves along.

Unlike many other series, you see that both the characters are flawed and go through an arc to discover themselves and strive to achieve their dreams. We have the pop idol Issei who always has a smile on his face irrespective of the situation or hardship. We find that he has been traumatized by his parents’ behaviours but decides to pursue being an idol because of Mamoru's passing comment. Mamoru is a closeted gay guy who suffers from low self-esteem and wants validation from people in the form of book sales and being at the "Wall".

This series is not heavy with romance and certainly isn't preachy but instead humorous. The interactions between the main and supporting characters is where the comedy lies and I simply enjoyed every moment of it. There is a bit of emotion in the last few episodes and I was eagerly waiting for it as you know that it will just propel these character's journeys even further.

All in all, a pleasant experience watching this series with great characters void of any angst and unreasonable breakups.

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A true example of Chekhov's gun

The series is about a disfunctional family made up of a father who cares little about his 3 sons born to different mothers. The eldest one is born to a Korean mother and wants back what belongs to his mother. The second son wants nothing to do with the family or the inheritence and the youngest son cares only about his share of the inheritence clearly influenced by his mother. Here we are introduced to another guy who might be the alleged 4th son of the tycoon born to his ex-girlfriend who he truly loved. The story now takes a different turn and is about the budding relationship of each of the brothers with their friends except the eldest one who falls for the new guy i.e. the alleged 4th son.

Starting with the positives, the series hits the ground runing wherein it wastes no time in introducing all the characters and their relationships with each other. The story is well paced for a mini-series with enough time spent on each of the main characters. Although the relationships in certain cases develop rather quickly due to lack of time, it does not feel superficial. The actors did a great job at playing their roles including the annoying nagging sister of one of friends.

Lets begin with the negatives. The series starts with showcasing a conflict between the eldest son and his uncle around business inheritence . He even tries to kidnap the eldest son but fails. This happens in the first 5 min of the first episode and then this plot is completely abandoned. The uncle is nowhere to be seen and there is no conversation around the failed kidnapping. In fact the eldest son wants nothing to do with inheriting his father's business instead he wants ownership back of his mother's hot springs business in S. Korea. But in the following episodes the eldest son forgets about this mission. Its like he suffers from short term amnesia. Doesn't remember the kidnapping and now doesn't care about the hot spring business. His only goal now is to be with his love interest.

The father plays a strong character and we feel that he will play a major role in their lives now that all the brothers are together at the same place and each of them having boyfriends but we dont get to see him at all post a few initial episodes.

During one of the moments between the second brother and his love interest, he says his family owns the guy. That exposition comes out of nowhere and we dont get any hint of what that means. I understand this is a mini-series and they cant possibly show everything but I feel they could have removed that specific dialogue and excused themselves from that explanation.

Regarding the 3rd brother, a very limited time is spent in providing any information about him or his love interest. All we know is that he dislikes his eldest brother because he disconnected a ransom call from his kidnappers and might be a hinderance to getting his share of the father's wealth.

In conclusion there were certain plots that required more explanation but waere abondoned without any explanation which leaves you wondering what happened with that plot or character. But if you ignore that, this one is a great watch and I would recommend it.

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Another BL done right

Its feels like a breath of fresh air when you see a BL story around working men and their life in office. The series does a fine job at introducing the characters. We have the 1st ML who seems to be going through life with an averseness to change. Through dialogues between the 2 MLs we come to know that he used to be accept challenges but no longer.
I really appreciated that multiple episodes were spent in building the relationship between the 2 ML where one in trying to help the other get out of his so called "mid-life crisis" and rediscover himself. Hence when ultimately the 1st ML falls in love with the other it appears justified and not something out of the blue. The fact about the age-gap is hammered constantly in to the viewers but it does not take away from the narrative and the dialogues sound more natural.
The 1st MLs character of being afraid of change is brought back again in the later episides when the 2nd ML confesses his love. But as usual love triumphs and they get together at the end which comes as no surprise. The series ends at a great moment and I would love to watch season 2 that explores their relationship further.

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A Playful Finale to a Captivating Journey

"Naughty Babe" provides a captivating conclusion to Khondiao and Yi's journey, which began in the "Cutie Pie" series. With only 8 episodes, the series feels a bit too short, especially considering how relatable the characters are and how much viewers might want to see more of them. There was a clear opportunity to delve into Khondiao's family affairs, particularly their plan to take down the Chen family.

The series primarily revolves around the evolving relationship between Khondiao and Yi. Khondiao believes that Yi has lost interest in him and is seeking pleasure elsewhere. Heartbroken, he decides to leave for Switzerland, but a twist of fate occurs when Yi has an accident and loses his memory.

The plot takes a sharp turn from a romantic comedy to a mystery. Viewers are offered a glimpse into Khondiao and Yi's childhoods, their past traumas, and the reasons behind Khondiao's memory loss. Furthermore, a larger, more intricate plot involving Khondiao's family emerges, revolving around their pursuit of money and property from the Chen family. Fed up with being used by his family to manipulate and harm the Chen family, Khondiao and his friends hatch a plan to resolve the issue for good. What ensues is a comical cat-and-mouse game between Khondiao and Yi.

Credit is due to the series' creators for managing to keep the tone as light-hearted as possible, even in the midst of darker themes such as attempted murder and blackmail. The actors Max and Not deliver exceptional performances, and their on-screen chemistry is unquestionably a highlight.

However, there are several plotlines left unfinished. Notably, Khondiao's uncle's ultimate plan remains undisclosed, and the character of Chen, who could have served as one of the antagonists, disappears without a resolution. Perhaps a full 12-episode series would have allowed for a more comprehensive exploration of all the introduced plot points.

In conclusion, "Naughty Babe" is an enjoyable watch and a fitting conclusion to Khondiao and Yi's storyline. The series excels as a light-hearted comedy, offering numerous swoon-worthy moments for all.

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Finding light in unexpected places

It would be wrong to assume that "Last Twilight" is just a typical BL series. It weaves an intricate tapestry of love, emotions, disability, dependency, tragedy and acceptance. It is not a story of the two main characters but a journey that mutliple characters undertake in this 12 episodes.

The main plot revolves around Day, an athlete who is slowly losing his vision. Frustrated by his disability and fear of being pitied by people around him, he loses all motivation to leave his room. Mhok is a mechanic who is down on his luck. Incarceration and loss of his sister teaches him to turn over a new leaf and he decides to be Day's guide.

The brilliance of the series lies in its nuanced portrayal of Day's journey. We witness his initial denial and frustration, the fear of becoming a burden, and the struggle to redefine his identity in the face of his disability. Sea's performance is nothing short of masterful, capturing Day's vulnerability and strength with raw emotion. Every trembling touch, hesitant step, and averted gaze speaks volumes about his struggles. Mhok is the perfect counterpoint to Day's emotional turmoil. Jimmy brings an endearing roughness to the character, hiding a heart of gold beneath a tough exterior. His initial reluctance to care for Day gradually melts away, revealing a man yearning for connection and redemption. Their interactions are a slow burn, fueled by unspoken anxieties and a dependence on each other.

As I said, this is not a typical BL series. It also explores the relationship between Day and his brother Night, a stark contrast in personality yet unwavering in support. The wise guidance of Day's coach offer moments of warmth and hope. Day's mother is overbearing but understanding at the same time.

The series doesn't shy away from addressing the harsh realities of living with a disability. Day's growing dependence on Mhok is never romanticized. The frustration of everyday tasks, the fear of isolation, and the constant uncertainty about the future are portrayed well. It is in these moments that the show shines brightest, highlighting Day's unwavering spirit and his determination to carve a path despite his limitations. The use of touch, from Mhok's gentle hand guiding Day to Day's exploration of the world around him, becomes a sweet connection between them.

In conclusion, this is a beautifully crafted narrative with stunning cinematography, and unforgettable characters offering a refreshingly honest and nuanced portrayal of love, loss, and finding light in the face of difficulties. This is indeed a journey worth taking

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A Thrilling Live-Action Adventure Recapturing the Spirit of the Beloved Anime

As a cherished part of my childhood, the animated "Yu Yu Hakusho" held a special place in my heart and the announcement of a live action version had me excited and scared. However, all that fear was unfounded when I saw the trailer and it got me all excited for the release. This 5-episode limited series has all the best part of the animated series and I could not have been happier.

The series revolves around Yusuke, a delinquent with a heart of gold. He meets an early end while trying to save a child but is brought back to life and recruited by the spirit world to take care of yokais that wreak havoc in the human world. In this endeavour he is assisted by Kurama, Hiei and his self-proclaimed rival, Kuwabara. Thus begins an adventurous journey marked by battles, growth, and the forging of unbreakable bonds.

There are 3 aspects of this series that makes it truly entertaining. First, is the massive number of talented actors that make up the star cast. Actors like Machida Keita and Takito Kenichi have never disappointed me before and it was a delight to see Kitamura Takumi and Hongo Kanata aptly bringing their characters to life. Secondly, the CGI was exceptionally good. For a series that is based on supernatural characters with super-powers, it pays to have a believable CGI so as to not take away from the viewing experience. Thirdly, the fight choreography was outstanding. Yu Yu Hakusho is full of action and its combination with CGI made it a worthwhile watch.

Due to the limited episodes, we didn’t have enough time to go through the back stories of a lot of these characters especially the antagonists. We understood the motivations of Toguro, but not the rest of the characters following him. Fans of the animated series and/or the manga can fill in the blanks but the rest of the audience would not be able to connect with the characters. Additionally, although the fight choreography is praiseworthy, the editing was sometimes choppy and we couldn’t see every movement.

In conclusion, watching this series was a nostalgic journey down memory lane. The exceptional performances of the actors and the evident hard work invested in the production deserve applause. While some narrative gaps exist, the creators have successfully brought this beloved anime to a new audience, leaving room for future adaptations to delve deeper into the rich lore.

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A Dark and Twisted Thriller by Takashi Miike

Takashi Miike, known for his bold and provocative filmmaking, delivers another unsettling masterpiece with "Lesson of the Evil." This psychological thriller takes you on a disturbing journey into the mind of a charismatic high school teacher, where the lines between good and evil blur in the most chilling ways imaginable. Not one to shy away from extreme violence and gore, Takashi Miike serves another great movie experience.

The film wastes no time in plunging viewers into the dark underbelly of a high school plagued by rampant cheating, bullying, and teachers who cross ethical boundaries. At the center of this chaos is Professor Hasumi, portrayed with chilling conviction by Ito Hideki. Hasumi initially appears as a beloved teacher, adored by his students. However, beneath the facade of a caring educator lies a remorseless killer who believes in solving students' issues through murder. What begins as a twisted form of vigilante justice spirals into a descent into madness, compelling Hasumi to take increasingly drastic measures to conceal his crimes.

Miike's direction shines as the film expertly navigates the duality of Hasumi's character. Through well-placed flashbacks and a relentless pace, viewers gain insight into the motivations behind his actions. As curiosity about his past threatens to expose him, Hasumi's transformation into a sadistic murderer is portrayed with unnerving precision. The supporting cast, though primarily serving as fodder for Hasumi's sadistic nature, adds to the film's unsettling atmosphere.

'Lesson of the Evil' excels in showcasing the gruesome consequences of Hasumi's actions, culminating in a crescendo of violence that leaves an indelible mark. From themes of bullying, harassment, and blackmail to moments of nudity and brutal deaths, the film spares no detail in its exploration of horror.

In conclusion, 'Lesson of the Evil' is not for the faint of heart. If you possess the stomach for extreme violence and gore, this movie offers a captivating and disturbing cinematic experience. Ito Hideki's remarkable performance, combined with Miike's unflinching direction, makes this film a standout entry in the director's challenging body of work. It's a 'magnificent' descent into darkness that lingers long after the credits roll.

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A Familiar Yet Enjoyable Mystery Special

Having previously watched a few Kindaichi Shonen no Jikenbo series and finding them to be mildly intriguing mystery shows, I decided to give this special a chance, and it certainly didn't disappoint. As is often the case with Kindaichi mysteries, the plot is not overly complex, making it possible for viewers to deduce the identity of the real killer along the way. However, even with this predictability, the special manages to be an engaging watch, thanks to the steady stream of clues and developments.

The story centers around Hajime Kindaichi, the grandson of a renowned detective, who possesses a talent for solving mysteries. While attending school, he enrolls in a program aimed at improving his grades, which requires him to take classes in a remote location. Joining him on this journey are his love interest Seiko and his friend Saki, along with a diverse cast of other characters. As the classes commence, students start falling victim to a mysterious killer, and Kindaichi finds himself tasked with unraveling the murders and putting an end to the deadly spree.

Every good mystery series includes subtle hints that engage viewers in solving the crime alongside the detective while also introducing red herrings to keep them on their toes. This special follows this classic formula. Although the mystery may be solvable for most viewers, the performances of the cast keep you invested in the storyline. Yamada Ryosuke's portrayal of a youthful and frightened student with a talent for solving mysteries is commendable. The supporting cast members also deliver exceptional performances. The special could have benefited from more impactful visuals and background music to intensify the sense of dread and urgency.

In conclusion, if you're a fan of the Kindaichi Shonen no Jikenbo series or simply enjoy murder mysteries, "Kindaichi Shonen no Jikenbo: Gokumon Juku Satsujin Jiken" is worth a watch. You can step into the role of a detective alongside the main character and try your hand at solving the mystery. It's a familiar yet enjoyable addition to the Kindaichi Shonen no Jikenbo collection.

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A Missed Opportunity in Character Development

I approached this series with a lowered expectation, only to find that it did little to change my initial outlook. At its core, this BL series revolves around a character so unlikable that you'll find yourself hoping the other main character seeks love elsewhere.

The storyline introduces us to Lee Jun, a failed idol who lands an internship in a company where the general manager, Choi Jun, turns out to be his childhood friend. Their reunion sparks feelings from their shared past. However, for a series to succeed, it needs likable characters that viewers can root for. Unfortunately, Lee Jun falls short of fulfilling this role. His character lacks depth and charisma, yet three men are inexplicably smitten with him.

First, we have Choi Jun, Lee Jun's childhood friend who secretly harbors feelings for him since their youth. Their past connection isn't sufficiently explored, leaving viewers questioning the basis of Choi Jun's enduring affection. Moreover, Choi Jun's two-year silence after returning to South Korea post his studies in US hardly aligns with someone deeply in love. He does not even attempt to contact Lee Jun until coincidentally he is hired as an intern in his office.
Second, there's Song Hyun Jae, Lee Jun's former idol manager who recommends him for an internship at Choi Jun's company. While Song Hyun Jae genuinely cares for Lee Jun, the latter’s character mainly involves whining and emotional turmoil.
Lastly, Simeon, a famous model who also admires Lee Jun, adds another layer to the complex web of feelings. His flirtations with Lee Jun go unnoticed, and intriguingly, a more palpable chemistry emerges between Simeon and Song Hyun Jae.

The series missed an opportunity to create a more engaging character in Lee Jun. Instead of a self-deprecating and whiny persona, Lee Jun could have been portrayed as a newcomer navigating office life, garnering attention and affection from past and present colleagues. His timidness could have been balanced with decisiveness, enriching his character beyond mere vulnerability.

In conclusion, the series falls short of its potential due to the underdeveloped character of Lee Jun. While the concept of office-based romance holds promise, there are better BL series in this genre worth exploring. This one, unfortunately, can be safely skipped in favor of more engaging alternatives.

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A promising start hindered by execution

This is a series that keeps you questioning its potential right up to the end. It's shot with a modest budget, and across its eight 30-minute episodes, it had ample time to delve into character development and storyline details. However, it ultimately falls short in these aspects.

The series commences with Jung Lee Won discovering that his roommate is writing a web novel where he and his rival, Kim Ji Oh, are depicted as being in a romantic relationship. Lee Won vehemently denies the claims but soon realizes that Ji Oh's feelings are gradually shifting toward genuine affection. Attempting to maintain his distance from Ji Oh proves futile when they are assigned to collaborate on a project. Meanwhile, Woo Sun Woo secretly nurtures feelings for Ko Yoo Kyeom, who happens to be his best friend's boyfriend. Out of loyalty to his friendship, Sun Woo suppresses his budding romance with Yoo Kyeom.

The series begins on a promising note, introducing us to the main characters, Lee Won and Ji Oh, and establishing their intense rivalry. They clash at every turn. Additionally, we are acquainted with the talented yet financially disadvantaged Sun Woo and the affluent Yoo Kyeom. Unfortunately, as the series unfolds, it takes a noticeable dip in quality. Ji Oh's sudden shift from rivalry to affection for Lee Won feels rushed and unconvincing. Conversely, Sun Woo's reluctance to express his feelings for Yoo Kyeom, followed by an abrupt confession and subsequent avoidance, makes his character arc appear inconsistent. The series also suffers from erratic sound recording, with background noise abruptly disappearing during dialogue scenes and noticeable dubbing issues.

The standout elements of this series are undoubtedly the performances by Lee Ye Hwan and Lee Sang Min. They bring their characters to life with enthusiasm and conviction, providing a silver lining in an otherwise uneven production. Lee Jung Min and Park Chang Hoon, while competent, could have offered stronger performances.

In conclusion, this series may be worth considering for a quick watch, particularly for the commendable acting talents of Lee Ye Hwan and Lee Sang Min. It falls short of its potential due to pacing and technical issues but can still provide some entertainment, making it suitable for a lazy weekend binge.

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A Thai BL trope galore in this simple storyline

This series is a classic enemies-to-lovers storly, centering around engineering students, and while it doesn't break new ground, it effectively employs tried-and-true tropes to craft an entertaining series.

The narrative follows Ai and Songkhram, dormitory heads at an engineering university, who constantly clash whenever their paths cross. Unbeknownst to them, hidden beneath their bickering lies a growing affection for each other. When Songkhram discovers Ai's feelings, he actively pursues a romantic relationship. Intertwined with this budding romance is the presence of a resentful former dormitory head and another student determined to see Ai and Songkhram fail. Additionally, secondary plotlines explore the relationships between Meen and Bright, as well as Nano and Pluster.

The series leans into the familiar tropes often found in Thai BL series, especially those set in a college backdrop. It incorporates elements like rivals secretly harboring feelings, one MC falling ill and being cared for by the other, and the cliché of maintaining a secret relationship while making it blatantly obvious. While the series delivers on these plot points, it doesn't delve deep into character backgrounds or their journey toward falling in love. It tends to jump from one plot development to another. A more comprehensive exploration of Bright and Meen's past relationship, as well as the cause of their rift, would have enriched the narrative. Similarly, the sudden emergence of Pluster and Nano's relationship lacks depth.

One of the series' strengths and simultaneously a drawback is its adherence to these familiar tropes. While it might seem typical, it also ensures that viewers won't feel bored or encounter jarring narrative shifts. The series successfully balances its reliance on conventions with its entertainment value. The two main actors deliver commendable performances, breathing life into their characters and crafting a genuinely heartwarming love story. It's evident that these actors have the potential to shine even brighter in more complex storylines.

In conclusion, the series may not revolutionize the BL genre, but it's far from disappointing. With only 10 episodes, it's a manageable time investment. The skilled performances of the actors and the decent background score contribute to its charm. While you'll need to overlook some subpar subtitles, the series is a worthwhile watch, especially if you enjoy the classic college romance formula.

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A Heartwarming Blend of Relationships and Time Travel

This series easily secures its spot as one of my favorite BL series of 2023, thanks to its captivating plotline that delves into a range of relationships between characters. Going beyond the typical romantic focus, the series masterfully explores the dynamics between a father and son, parents and their daughter, a son and his mother, and the bonds of friendship. This heartwarming series stands out as a feel-good watch, void of any antagonistic elements, and instead, centers on the growth of multiple relationships that viewers can't help but root for.

Centered around the protagonist Kawi, a modest and self-deprecating student harboring a crush on Pear, a popular girl in school, the series takes an intriguing twist when Kawi discovers a crystal ball that grants him the ability to travel back in time. His attempts to alter events brings him closer to Pisaeng leading to a realization that destiny might have other plans.

The series' brilliance lies in its well-developed characters and the underlying message of cherishing our time with loved ones. Kawi's journey to secure a connection with Pear inadvertently leads him closer to Pisaeng, and their evolving bond is beautifully portrayed. Pisaeng's struggles with self-acceptance resonate powerfully, drawing strength from the support of friends and family. Kawi's motivations for time travel extend beyond romatic gain, as he attempts to save his father's life and mend relationship with his friend Max. Pear, portrayed as a compassionate and empathetic individual, navigates her own challenges, reconciling with her mother and forgiving those who have wronged her. Similarly, Kwan's journey towards healing from a toxic relationship with Knot adds depth to the series.

Kawi's charismatic and endearing personality steals the spotlight, credit to Krist's commendable portrayal. Fluke brings a patient and understanding demeanor to Pisaeng, allowing their chemistry to shine through. Notably, the characters of Pear, Kwan, and Max are thoughtfully crafted and skillfully portrayed by the cast, enhancing the series' overall appeal.

In conclusion, "Be My Favourite" excels in its storytelling, largely due to its intricate character development and the inventive use of supernatural time travel. As relationships evolve and intertwine, the series captivates viewers with its heartwarming exploration of connection and second chances.

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A Bittersweet Culinary Journey

Initially skeptical due to mixed reviews and ratings, I approached this series with caution, only to find it to be a decent watch. This Japanese BL series tells a simple love story that unfolds at a leisurely pace, with a rush of events in the final episode to bring closure. It's the kind of series you can binge-watch on a lazy weekend.

The story revolves around Ichijo Sota, whose unique destressing mechanism involves eating naked. After the passing of his grandmother, he visits her home in a small town and discovers her book filled with recipes from around the world. To honor her memory, Ichijo decides to follow each recipe, leading him to a vegetable and fruit store run by Miki Mahiro. As they bond over the kitchen table while preparing food, Ichijo starts questioning his feelings towards Mahiro.

Food takes center stage in this series, acting as a catalyst for building relationships. Each dish serves as a metaphor, pushing the narrative forward. As Ichijo and Mahiro spend weekends cooking together, their bond grows stronger. While Mahiro is clear about his feelings for Ichijo, Ichijo grapples with his own emotions. His indecisiveness causes pain and misunderstandings, leaving viewers longing for open communication between the characters. What could have been a delightful romantic comedy turns into melodrama, with hopes that Ichijo will shed his inhibitions, much like his clothes, and confess his true feelings to Mahiro.

Yutaro and Kondo Shori deliver decent performances considering the limitations of the script. While lacking in romantic chemistry, their scenes together possess a sweetness that resonates. The supporting characters primarily serve to create misunderstandings between the two leads, whether it's Ichijo's coworker or the store's previous owner. Unfortunately, these characters remain underdeveloped, despite the occasional flashbacks providing glimpses into Mahiro and Ichijo's school life.

In conclusion, this series offers a familiar experience without any groundbreaking elements. It's not a series to be dismissed entirely, but don't set your expectations too high. If you're a food enthusiast, give it a try as it will appeal to your culinary sensibilities. Otherwise, save it for when you're in the mood for something light and straightforward.

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