Stay with Me (2023)

A CULTURAL RESET: They made it even more beautiful and they set their own standards

Clearly it’s an adaptation of the Chinese BL that we all loved… It’s normal to have a comparison. But Addicted took place years before Stay With Me. So it’s normal for Stay with me to have some changes or a different take on specific scenes and plots. Nevertheless, everything was done in a good way.

At first, I was skeptical to watch it for the following reasons:

1.) CH’s Censorship - that’s automatically a bummer to most of us BL lovers. Despite having a heart to appreciate a non-BL drama, it just still feels lacking or sad for us to get a BL adaptation without the essence of BL. It just doesn’t make sense, like if you’re going to adapt a BL and change it, then don’t even touch it right? Like go adapt an original bromance or create your own bromance story.

2.) Addicted has a special place in my heart - the actors in particular. Their chemistry was just so unique, it was something else. My mind couldn’t accept the fact that we’re getting an adaptation with the continuation of their story — but with different actors. It’s sad and we gotta admit it. We’ve always hoped for them to one day be able to continue the story themselves.

Now here are my realizations as I started watching Stay with me:

I realized, that I can actually love them BOTH at the same time. Like I don’t need to look for mistakes or flaws then bring it up and make comparisons, talk about it on socials - like what for? just to protect or avenge the original drama/actors? I realized that I can’t hate the new series just because I’m in denial of the fact that it’s not the original casting anymore and that it’s not literally tagged as BL.

That’s just so petty of me. And if you feel that way too? Here’s what I could recommend. If you’re not interested, then don’t watch it. If you watched it and was unhappy, then simply drop it. But that gives you NO RIGHT to talk about anything negative or recruit other possible viewers to hate on Stay with me, because you haven’t even watched it UNTIL THE END. It’s 2023, if it’s not your cup of tea then look for something else and move on.

By giving “Stay with me” a chance, I’ve learned to accept and APPRECIATE the changes and adjustments they’ve done. It’s like a 2023 take on the original story.

Comparisons are normal. But I gotta be real honest, Stay with me opened my heart and created their own spot in my heart. They’ve set their OWN standards. They got famous because they are them. I can’t invalidate the efforts of the new casts and producers and all the people behind this drama. They really did well, to satisfy the viewers WHILE considering the things they must uphold. It’s uncontrollable but they did their best. And I FELT IT.

That’s why I appreciate them so much. If only THEY COULD??? let’s admit it, we know and we can feel that THEY WOULD give us everything we hope for.

For me, there was never a dull episode released! Each episode gave us something to feel and think about. I’ve felt a lot of rollercoaster emotions throughout the series and I’ve enjoyed the ride!

After finding out that what we’re watching is the cut/edited version… all the previous episodes that we wished could’ve showed more context or showed more of what happened next — started to make sense! Honestly, I was already happy and contented with how it is right now. But knowing that we will still actually get more???? Of course, my heart is HAPPIER and more EXCITED!

Also, we cannot deny that this drama taught us a lot of LESSONS — with our emotions, the family matters, individuality, overcoming hardships, personal challenges, relationships, perseverance, unconditional love and a lot more.

I personally hope that by the time they shoot the Season 2 - the censorship will be more linient or totally lifted if possible. So they won’t have to hold back their creativeness and the natural greatness of their works. They probably feel bad too that they have to limit things. Anyway, I wouldn’t mind if they still have to in the next season. They’ve already PROVEN that they could still make it SATISFYING and BEAUTIFUL even with the censorship taking place.

I barely have the desire to rewatch a drama ever in my life. The first and last time I did rewatch a drama was “My girl” by Lee Dongwook. It was a korean drama and not a BL one. I’ve never tried to rewatch anything else after that, not until today. I know that I’ll soon have a feeling or mood to watch Stay with me again and I’LL GLADLY DO IT.

Stay with me is prolly one of the best drama in all genre, that has been released this year (so far). There are lots of good dramas but for me I have few that gave me remarkable feelings and it’s one of them.

I’m gonna MISS THEM 😭 everything about this drama felt like HOME to me. The characters, the setting, the location, the courtyard, the house, their rooms, the tree, the roof the boys always sit on, the music, their relationship. I could go on forever if I talk about it 😅

I’M JUST SO HAPPY I GAVE “STAY WITH ME” A TRY, DESPITE HAVING A LOT OF BLs FROM DIFFERENT COUNTRIES THAT WERE AVAILABLE/YET TO COME.

Stay with me even had me lose my interests to those upcoming BLs that were on my list. Like, I couldn’t give attention to anything else yet when I watched this. It still may take time for me to process and move on before I could go back to watching other BLs 😅

Let me end this by saying: It may not be the most perfect drama (cause I believe there’s no such thing) BUT I am satisfied, contented and happy with it. I wouldn’t wish to change a thing! And SEASON 2 will definitely be my most awaited series, ever! I’ll be more than willing to patiently wait for them 🥹 JIONGJIONG, BINBIN, AND TO EVERYONE WHO MADE “STAY WITH ME” POSSIBLE! THANK YOU SO MUCH! WE LOVED IT AND WE KNOW WE’RE GONNA LOVE THE NEXT SEASON TOO! 🥰

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Damn best Chinese bl

Omgg this series was total damn worth watching nd waiting. Even thoo there was no nc scene , lip kiss etc... They chemistry was insane thier little little interactions made me BLUSH SO HARDDD i swear ,but dude fUCK THE ENDING!!! 🙂writer please pay for my s1 ending trauma im glad that they renewed for season 2 im waiting... Total worth rewatching, thier relationship development was tooo good its one of my most favorite bl now💖So gooodddd and omggg please i neee a boyfriend like wubi..that little girl (duo) acting was to good..ikik i never trusted WU BI's brother from the starting.. Dude if i catch ill surely 🔪🗿(Wubi's brother)but please ending made me to cryyy so hardd... I'll miss suyu nd wubi 's acting until we get S2 okay letme just describe this whole series in one word this series an 💎GEM

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Sadly another bromance only, lacks the BL real feel.

Sadly another Bromance, not BL that plays close to addicted, but just a younger version of actors. It's a good development, however sadly, I hate all these BL that come from China, as all of it can only look like Bromance instead of real Boylove. I hate the stupid censorship of China, time to grow up and allow actors and directors, and writers to tell the story the way it should be shown and felt. Stop this stupid censorship and show the amazing detail of Boylove with the beautiful story and intimacy that it deserves. Stay with Me has such a great feel but lacked the real beauty of the boylove storyline that we wanted to see the shine. Very disappointed by the playout of the story. Love the acting and where it could go, but just another sad bromance.

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Must Watch

First and foremost, let's get one thing straight: "Stay With Me" is in a league of its own and should not be compared to "Addicted." If you insist on drawing parallels, know that "Stay With Me" far surpasses "Addicted" in every aspect. The series masterfully strikes a balance between heart-wrenching drama and tender moments, making it a must-watch.

What sets this show apart is its portrayal of genuinely healthy relationships, a refreshing departure if you've been disheartened by the toxic dynamics in "Addicted." This series had me riveted, keeping me on the edge of my seat throughout its entire run.

The announcement of a confirmed second season moved me to tears, a reaction I've never had for any show's renewal. Yes, you read that right—the contract for season two is signed and sealed.

To add to the excitement, there's buzz about an uncensored version being released in the near future. I'm eagerly awaiting that, fingers crossed.

Lastly, let's dispel the notion that this is a mere "bromance." The romantic undertones are far from subtle; this is a love story, plain and simple.

If you have even a passing interest in boyslove, "Stay With Me" is an absolute must-watch.

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I had to write one, for my own good.

This is a kind of... slice-of-life story. You are placed in the lives of two people who get the companionship/love that they needed, something they hadn't gotten before, in each other. A simple yet complex story about the many turning-points of a relationship between two people as they mature together and teach each other to appreciate different parts of life they hadn't been able to before.

Is this a story containing love? My answer is yes. Pure and simple love. But this is not merely a LOVE STORY, this is a story that features love. It's more about two people finding comfort in each other, and, as a bonus, love.

I am going to re-watch this show until I memorize their every line. And you should too (if you dare).

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Magnum Opus!

Sheer perfection. Without exception, this is one of the best acted and most talented ensembled cast of actors/actresses I have seen in a long time, perhaps ever. This is a love story between two young men. I know it comes from mainland China and it is not supported to be a love story let alone a BL, but it is, and they know it is. It is way too obvious to be otherwise. It is a story of love from the beginning. Sure, it ebbs and flows like a river, but the one constant is, like any river, it flows in one direction. And that direction is always towards a deeper and more profound love not only for each other but for life in general. You cannot possibly summarize this series that would not equal the length of this series. All you can do is try, inadequately, to capture its impact on you. But surprisingly, it is not so easy to do. Yes, it is pure artistry, but it also has a magical quality about it in the sense that it makes these characters come to life. Every single one of them. You feel them. You sense them. You ARE them.
To read my full review, pleas go to BLBliss.com.

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stay with me is going to stay with me

No soy de escribir reviews, pero por esta serie lo haré y esq, stay with me merece mucho más, pero enserio, mucho más reconocimiento. Desde la actuación, el plot, el ost, en general es una MUY buena producción. Uno de los mejores bls que existen y hasta diria que en general, que es una buena serie. Te muestra diversos situaciones muy bien ejecutadas, las actuaciones desde los principales y todos en si fueron para un 10/10. El ost igual es muy remarcable, hasta el momento no esta en spotify ni en una aplicación de streaming oficial, y sí, duele.
Y bueno, enserio quisiera decir más pero sería spoiler y no quisiera. Solo espero por esa 2da temporada, porq tiene que haber, no pueden dejarlo con ese final, es muy abierto, y ademas que no lo soportaría emocionalmente.
Así que, recomienden STAY WITH ME !

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Go watch it rn!

The best bl/bromance (idk, probably bl) I've ever seen. Also I didnt see the original drama but thats okay

The story was touching and amazing also how they added a family theme was really good. It was sometimes a bit cheesy but yk its okay.
The plot was interesting enough, I didnt understand the thing w their parents much tho

Their chemistry was brilliant. Also I loved the little girl and I hate the weird girl (idk her name) xd. And the end umm It was sad but good. In dramas they often mess up the ends, but this wasnt the case, so this end was unexpected and interesting.

I rewatch it a lot, but I always cry like a psycho, so if ur strong enough, watch it!

Im praying for season 2, but I heard there wont be one idk tho, but Im already sad

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A series so good that it will stay with you

Amidst the backdrop of Chinese content restrictions on LGBTQ themes, this emerges as a remarkable series that transcends limitations, delivering a heartwarming tale that lingers in your thoughts. Witnessing the transformation of the two main characters from adversaries to lovers is a truly gratifying experience, subtly portraying their blossoming affection in a context where explicit declarations are constrained.

Even as the narrative draws inspiration from the original "Addicted" series, "Stay with Me" unveils the lives of two high school students, Su Yu and Wu Bi, whose personalities clash vehemently. Oblivious to the fact that their estranged parents are now married, the series deftly navigates their interactions as their connection deepens, unravelling the complexities of their family dynamics.

Within its narrative, the series embraces a spectrum of emotions, including drama, nuanced romance, friendship, unrequited love, and the intricate relationships between parents and children. It effortlessly weaves mystery and action, making each episode a captivating chapter in their journey. At the heart of the series is the brilliant portrayal of the lead characters, showcasing the remarkable talents of Xu Bin and Zhang Jiong Min. Xu Bin brings Wu Bi's fiery yet compassionate persona to life, capturing his internal struggles, love, and longing. His portrayal of a young man who values love over material wealth resonates deeply. Zhang Jiong Min's performance as Su Yu is equally mesmerizing. He masterfully conveys the layers of emotions beneath Su Yu's academic prowess, unveiling a character driven by unresolved feelings, yet undeterred in showing his affections.

Together, Xu Bin and Zhang Jiong Min convey the intricate relationships their characters share with family members and with each other. The series adeptly navigates their evolving bond through moments of conflict, jealousy, and an irresistible yearning to be together. Amidst their squabbles, the underlying affection remains unshaken, reflected in their mutual support and sacrifices for each other's happiness.

The subtlety in portraying their love is a testament to the series' finesse. While misunderstandings and fights occasionally punctuate their relationship, the unspoken emotions remain intact. Their mutual protectiveness and genuine care are reflected in their actions, whether it's Wu Bi's watchful eye on Su Yu or Su Yu's unwavering support for Wu Bi's aspirations.

In conclusion, this series triumphs as a superior adaptation, filling the void left by “Addicted”. The exceptional performances, engaging music, and heartfelt narrative combine to create an emotionally rich experience. While the series concludes with a cliffhanger, one can only hope for a second season to continue this captivating journey of love and self-discovery.

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Best Chinese bl ever

Omg although some say it’s bromance some say it’s bl but for me it’s su you and wu bi story I don’t care about intimate scenes as long as they express them in love I’m voting for this as best drama ever I knew Chinese dramas has a very different tendency to make bl dramas if they make it wow it will be ultra level drama compare to Kerala which couldn’t reach it like thai drama I hope I hope they can make like these dramas a lot so I can see it in Chinese bl or bromance whatever a atleast with cute moments all the best to the team they have extraordinary acting and face and about the script wow it’s. A great story and video editing and quality is awesome and regarding songs omg I really love it I hope in season 2 they get more scenes together waiting for it

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My favourite drama for sure !

I love the fact it's a cuter version of "Addicted" ! To be honest, I don't like the first version, it's too violent and I didn't understand a thing (especially because the actors look alike, I couldn't tell them appart).
At first, after watching the trailer of Stay With Me, I didn't want to watch the series because of the accident (I'm traumatised by sad endings). But I kept seeing shorts of Su Yu and Wu Bi and I actually enjoyed it so I forced myself a bit to start at least the first episode and I absolutely loved it ! I mean, I love enemies to lovers. 😅 In 2 days I watched all the episodes that were already out (18). 😂 And even if it's quite long (24 episodes), this drama hypnotised me !
What I like the most about it is the chemistry of the main characters, the way they look at each other is perfect ! We can totally see that they love each other as lovers and not only as friends. Since it's a censored version I was afraid it would look like a bromance and nothing else but absolutely not ! In addition to the chemistry, there are scenes kinda sus (like when Wu Bi apologised to Su Yu, the way they hold hands says it all) so we can definitely understand they are boyfriends, Duo Duo shipping them and making them dance together (it's so cute 😂) and this beautiful scene in which Su Yu says he loves the "sea" (👀) and many more details ! I was so surprised they could film kisses by the way ! I like the plot twits, I could understand the story better and some of the characters reactions. And talking about reactions : I love Wu Bi's jealousy and possessiveness, it's so funny to watch ! 🤣 The scenes with Ye Wanying (the fights) shows how much the main characters love each other, it's definitely the kind of plot I like !
Then comes the ending, I thought it wouldn't be the very last episode so I was a bit disapointed but I learnt not so long after the end of the series that it would be a second season with a happy ending and I'm sooo happy, I can't wait for the year 2025 !!! So much passion and cuteness in one series 🥰

PS : Sorry for the possible mystakes, I'm not a native :,)

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