A Tale of Thousand Stars (2021)

Magical; GMMTV's best BL yet

I think everything good has already been said in the other reviews and in the comments. We waited more than a year for A Tale of Thousand Stars to air, and I am so glad to say, the wait was definitely worth it. I only have the following takeaways:

1. Before ATOTS, Earth was never in my radar as a leading man material. He's got the body, yes, but acting and appeal wise, I thought he had none. ATOTS changed my perspective of him, and I could not imagine any other actor from GMMTV's slate that could play Phupha better than he did. It is his best work, and his performance is definitely one of the greatest I've seen. What I loved the most about his version of Phupha is he does not really communicate through actions but through his eyes. Earth did it so well, and very few actors can do that.

2. For Mix, I would say that he's still got some room for improvement, but that does not mean his performance was bad. In fact, he carried the show so well. It wasn't hard to sympathize with Tian because Mix just transformed himself into the role smoothly. But there were still some moments in the series where I felt he was lacking. However, if GMMTV can give this guy more opportunities to improve, I have huge faith that Mix will turn himself into one of the studio's most treasured leading men. Just watch the old trailer of 1000 Stars and you can see how much he has improved in the span of a year.

3. ATOTS was a refreshing take on the Thai BL genre, which after 5+ years of feeding us student-student relationships, has grown quite bleak and tiresome. Correct me if I'm wrong, but this is probably the first GMMTV BL that is not set within university walls? The point here is, ATOTS highlights that the idea of making a boys love series not involving students can actually work. I am very excited in seeing how ATOTS' success will impact the studio's future lakorns. Will we finally get our wish to see a BL between two grown men? A BL set in the workplace? We'll just have to wait and see.

4. I think 1000 Stars had the best set of supporting characters and actors. I loved how they utilized some actors on the GMMTV slate that have not been getting any good roles lately. For instance, I haven't seen P'Champ in a series since My Dear Loser: Edge of 17, and that was way back in 2017! I like the fact that despite not having much lines, he was still largely present throughout the show. There's also Nammon, who played Dr. Nam, probably the best character in the entire series. This is another guy I do not see often lately. It is unfortunate that he already left GMM, but I find it amazing that he gave the studio his best work in his very last project for them. It is such a fitting ending to a career he's held with GMM for many years. Drake was given a surprisingly small role, too small that they did not even bother including him in the show's poster. This was a guy who had been getting main roles in the recent past, I wonder what made him settle for less? I don't have much to say about his character of Rang because his time in the series was just too limited. Nevertheless, Drake can give a solid performance if he is given the right material, you can check out Cause You're My Boy that was aired back in 2018. P'Thanom's performance as Khama is very reflective of his long experience in the industry. His last scene in the drama where he was on the verge of tears was my favorite moment of his. Aye and White, despite their very short screen time, were also effective as Torfun and Tul, respectively. And Khaotung, thank God he rebounded quickly from that Tonhon Chonlatee travesty. His performance as Longtae is so far my favorite of his own work. Although I think he is getting a bit typecast as that caring, sensible friend to the show's leading man. And we should not forget about Tian's students. Each of them had his/her own charm and was completely indispensable in the story.

5. I don't care much about songs, but ATOTS's soundtrack is too incredible to be ignored. Among all the songs linked to GMMTV series, I only liked two: Gun Napat's title song here and Gawin Caskey's song in Dark Blue Kiss. Gun's song may even move you to tears if you understand the full context of the show that it goes with. Moreover, one thing I noticed about P'Aof's past series is that he tends to overuse silly sound effects. I guess he learned how those SFX can ruin the mood of his dramas, so he minimized them significantly in ATOTS, which I truly, truly appreciate.

6. The location was shot so beautifully, it almost feels as if you have been transported to Pha Pun Dao. I noticed that P'Aof does out-of-town scenes particularly well. From In and Sun's episode in Our Skyy to ATOTS, not only did he capture what the scenario looks like but also how it feels to be there. What contributed to this feat was that the ambient sounds in the mountains were captured very well. I also loved the lighting for the nighttime scenes, which does not look artificial (in itself, this feat is superb because lakorns (at least from what I have seen) usually suck in making nighttime lighting look natural!). The production design was just the cherry on top. Heck, this is the first time I actually commented on a lakorn's production design! That just shows how groundbreaking this series was!

7. The only negative comment I can give is related to some unresolved conflicts in the story. The one that really sticks its head out was: what happened to Sakda's men? After all that gunfire, I could not believe it just ended right then and there. There was no resolution to his story at all. In addition to that, the problem regarding the village losing its major source of livelihood was also left open. When the stocks of those teabags were burned down along with the school, the issue was not brought up again. Although I understand that we were never given closure about these two key issues in the story since the drama's priority is Tian and Phupha's relationship, these issues are quite serious and we can't just pretend they never happened.


All in all, a highly recommended show. SOTUS and SOTUS S have just been dethroned as the best BL that GMMTV can offer. It will take the studio a long time to upend this feat.

Read More

✨ATOTS SUPREMACY✨

A tale of a thousand stars made their way through successfully. It is an astounding series and novel as well. It's a series that doesn't require any kissing/love scene as emotions are poured within their sincere eyes and actions. ATOTS is a series that I've waited for so long and I can say that it is worth the wait. Phu &Tian will always be my comfort characters and my love. I'm hoping to see more series directed by P'Aof as well as WarthMix projects🥰

Starting from episode one, you could see how they put their whole effort despite the problems they encountered due to their location. Talking about the script, some parts was improvised and it was majestic😭 I just wish I'm there to watch them act behind the big cameras😭 ATOTS was really a huge success to everyone! kUdos to everyone behind the camera as well as all the actors! Congrats🥰

Read More

The best show I've ever watched

and I'm not only counting in BL shows because this series is so much more than just a love story between two guys.

It is a story about the valuables and hardships of life, to learn how to forgive yourself, finding out and accepting your sexuality and to realize what your heart is longing for and where your place in the world is.

The whole scenery of the village and the strong bond that has developed between Tian and the villagers is so beautiful to watch and brings you to the edge of tears.

It is also great to watch Tians progression from start to end and the very meaningful act at the end of the last episode really highlights that. (not gonna say what exactly happed, you should just watch yourself ;))

Onto what I guess the majority of people makes them want to watch the story, the relationship between Phupha and Tian. These two have so much chemistry you need to remind yourself from time to time that this is just a series and not real-life. I'm so happy that they did not rush their relationship just to please the audience, they waited up the right timing for the kiss and them becoming lovers to wrap up the story perfectly and to really bring out all the emotions! Besides that you could already feel the feelings they have for each other way before that making this series being packed with a bunch of sweet moments that make you swoon over them.

This series deals with a lot of different kinds of issues that actually made me rethink my own life and realize that I as well need to look for what really makes me happy.
Summing up I would not recommend this series to whoever is looking for something light-hearted with a bunch of horny kissing and bed scenes. But I'm confident that anyone who is ready to watch a beautiful love story between to people and characters who develop mentally and learn something important for their own life will have an awesome time watching this series!

Thank you for reading my review and (hopefully) have a great time watching if you haven't already!

Read More

Just WOW!

Didn't expect the best program I've seen all year to be a bl from Thailand. It took me over a month to write this because writing a review meant the show was over.
First, a lot of those points come from just the music and scenery that are not just an accompaniment but an integral part of the story almost like another main character. I dont think Mountains have been made to look this good since The Sound Of Music...
And then there is the story. How could they make something so clichéd feel so fresh and new? I cried and laughed and made all sorts of weird noises at my tablet and it was just wonderful!
Witch brings me to the main actors Earth and Mix. I know the bl public is out there shipping them as a couple in real life and I hate this aspect of thai productions, but their on screen chemistry is amazing and I would like to see them do more projects together.

Read More

I've waited for over a year since the trailer came out, and this series is beyond my expectation. At first, I planned to watch only because it's Earth first series as a main role and the storyline is different from other BL series. As I watched through episode 4 I got deep into the series. They portrayed the life of the villagers really good, Phupha and Tian has a non toxic and mature relationship. There is no unnecessary drama and every characters has an important role.

Earth acting skill definitely got a lot better and Mix has proven his ability as a new comer (I can't believe this is his first time acting). Their acting felt natural, their chemistry is on another level, and they can delivered the feelings perfectly. And what I love the most is they don't need excessive lovey-dovey scene but you can feel their love towards each other (you'll know what I mean if you watch it ;) ).

In conclusion, this series is worth to watch. Go watch it!! :)

Read More

One of the most beautiful and touching Fairytale-Stories in a BL so far.

When I watched the first 5 Episodes of 1000 Stars, I was totally fascinated by this unique and beautiful series, cause everything was perfect. The MainRoles, The Setting, The Music, the Story, and even the Sideroles were loveable, touching, and beyond the standard of a typical BL Series.

Unfortunately, it couldn’t keep the Tension when the Series goes to Episodes 6 and 7.In these Episodes, I’ve got the Feeling that the Relationship of Tian and Phupa is on a Plateau and didn’t move on, (I mean they sleep in a room, but not in the same bed for example), but that’s the only Lowlight in this great Series.

Besides that, everything makes sense here even the Conflicts and the dramatic Parts. Which has nothing to do with the BL-Clichees and Misunderstandings.

In other BLs there are normally Breakups for random reasons, but 1000 Stars makes it better and asks questions that definitely matters.
Like „how far will you go to be with your loved one? and would you give up your old life for him?“

All in all, I would say, 1000 Stars sets new standards in Setting, Creativity, and Storytelling and I’m really loving it!

Read More

Top Tier BL Series - A Masterpiece That Needs To be Shared!

This is by far the best BL series I've seen! Unlike majority of other BL series, you won't hate on the third party (Thorfun, if you could even call her that). Had it been Thorfun's story without Tian, it would still be good and I'd still watch it. But the concept of having Tian as a recepient of Thorfun's heart is exemplary!!

For more than 2 months, I have been patiently waiting every Friday for new release. I even watch the reaction videos of the director and his friends! You should also check that out because you'll appreciate everything about ATOTS more. With their effort, THEY REALLY DESERVE TO BE LOVED AND TO REACH A WIDER AUDIENCE! I recommend this to all my friends even to non BL fans because in this series, same sex relationship is normalized and not taken as something that the main character would fight or deny. We need more of this approach because love is love no matter the gender.

Do I need to say more about the cast? The visuals are suuuuperb!!! How can they even look good with minimal make up under a bright sunny day or gloomy day?? I also can't believe this is Mix's first acting stint. You can really see how they are comfortable with each other because their chemistry is off the charts! This shouldn't be put to waste, let's support them for more!!

Read More

A Masterpiece and A Game-Changer in Thai BL Industry

-- Story --

The story is closely-adapted from a novel, thus I cannot really criticise the story in the series. It is closely-tied to Thai culture with many symbolisms that may look weird or even rude in other culture's perspective. For example, Phupha pushing Tian away for Tian's own greater good. It can be perceived as a good and a bad thing; depends on the perspective. You can find many discussions about this in the comment section on both YouTube and MDL.

I must say that the series has a better ending than the novel. In the novel, Tian cancelled his plan to study in US to return to the village. In the series, Tian still went to US and came back to the village two years after that. It made the scene when Phupha got to see Tian again more romantic.

But the ending in the series (Ep 10) was too fast-paced. It is predictable though since the climax (Tian's confession and/or Phupha's getting shot) happened in Ep 8-9. The ending was crammed in just one episode and I think that is not enough.

My only complain is Phupha's appearance in the cliff in the last episode. He came alone to there after getting a RED ALERT notice. That was basically suicide.

Oh, and the scene when Phupha and Tian returned to the village from the hospital in Ep 9. Phupha drived the car using one hand. I am still finding the reasoning behind his ability to do that.


-- Acting/Cast --

Near perfect.

Earth is the right actor to perform Phupha. His micro-expression was out of the world. I really like how Phupha sighed before talking to Tian. It really showed the struggle of an old man when talking to a young man. And the beard, it's legendary lol.

Mix did an excellent job in his first time as an actor. There was something in his eyes that could make me feel what Tian felt. Some of the crying scenes looks too forced though. Compared to Gun ATP's crying scenes in Theory of Love, Mix's crying scenes are still behind. But that is actually a compliment because I compare him to Gun ATP. Nobody beats that man in the crying department.

The thing that amazes me the most is how Earth and Mix shows the love Phupha and Tian had towards each other without even saying "I love you" and "Will you be my boyfriend?" at all. Their actions alone were powerful enough to convey the message. This is the first time I see this in my 20 years watching gay-themed films/series. Truly a game-changer.

The selfie scene in Ep 10 could have been done better though. No way Tian could take a selfie with +30 people. When I watched it, my eyes were focused on the three girls behind. I am so sorry for them.


-- Music --

I fall in love with the main soundtrack Ni Taan Pan Dao. I am going to listen to it everyday.

The music suits the theme and the setting of the series. It is a perfect match. The khlui (Thai flute) sound made me feel like I was really there, in the village, experiencing the story unfolds. The lyrics is perfect for the story. And the timing of its appearance throughout the series is impeccable.


-- Rewatch Value --

This series is highly recommended even for non-BL-enthusiasts. This series is not perfect, but it is no doubt one of the best (if not the best) gay-themed films/series I have ever watched.

Read More

AMAZING! MUST WATCH - Sweet and Heartwarming

Few shows make me ant to write reviews, but this one did (along with ITSAY). This has definitely joined Itsay in the ranks of my fave BLs but also my favorite series altogether because I feel both (in different ways) transcend the label BL.

This is a story of growth and joy. The way the village is built up and each character is warm and not a nasty villain (aside from the villain himself lol) just made me love everyone.

The chemistry is explooosive and even though we suffer so much til we get a kiss this show made me feel so much more than series where characters make out explicitly all the time, because the build up of the desire, the way the looked at each other...it gave me EVERYTHING. I hope and wish and pray Earthmix will become one of those duos that repeats partnerships.

I love how all of Phupha's buddies are absolutely aware of his crush and encourage it. I love how Phupha is head over heels for Tian. I love how Tian is a playboy but not the nasty arrogant type, but one that is sweet and willing to learn quite promptly.

The last episode gave me LIFE and a bit more. I recommend 1000%

Congrats to Mix. From the BTS I could see this as quite a challenge for him and he rose to it beautifull.y

Read More

I'm here after rewatching

I know a lot of fans already reviewed this series, but I want to write one mostly for myself to look back to in the future.

First off, I was really looking forward to atots even before the series aired. The teaser really caught my attention, plus there's earth pirapat. When atots started airing, of course I had to watch. I instantly fell in love with their opening song. It was very calming and addicting.

I'd say earth's acting was good. It's expected of him, since I've seen his other series and I liked him. But I was really shocked with mix. I wasn't familiar with him, and thought he had a lot of acting experience before. I didn't know atots was his acting debut. With that kind of acting, it won't be hard for him to land onto another project. I instantly became a fan. What made me really stay is because of earthmix's chemistry. It was one of the best! I really hope they can be one of GMM's pillar. They also have a large fandom, considering they only have just sailed.

Tbh I haven't had the chance to read atots novel. I only heard the story is different from the series. I don't know how much, so I can't really compare them back then. After rewatching atots this time, I finally bought the novel and read it. I think the angst really ran deep in the novel. Maybe could've been deeper than in the series. However, I was taken aback that the series was pretty different from the novel. They changed a lot of details and scenes. Some I hoped was included in the series. Nevertheless, the series was much much better logic wise and plot wise. It made much more sense and is believable to an extent. I'm glad they made the change.

To say this is one of the best thai BL series is an understatement. Of course I had to rewatch atots. maybe I'll watch it a thousand times if I must. I could see better details when I rewatch and I understand more of why the characters act that way after knowing the whole story. I think rewatching atots is a new experience. I can see myself rewatching this again next year. I'm just too in love with this series.

Read More

One hell of an emotional rollercoaster ride (a very good one at that!)

This series is undeniably one of best BL shows ever, or at least among the other Thai BL series. Scrap that, ATOTS doesn't need to be labelled as merely a BL series because it's more than that. It's love between 2 flawed humans, between teachers and their students, between forest rangers and nature, between a city boy and the seemingly simply village which he had found a home in. The story is so rich of every aspect one could ask for in a Tv
series.

The storyline is very good: for those who are new to the series and have yet to read the novel, ATOTS is sure to keep you on your toes, hooked, and always anticipating the next episode. For those who read the novel (I did, though only halfway), the plot might seem a little rushed, nevertheless, it's still definitely worth to (re)watch. The actors are simply PHENOMENAL at their job, as well as the rest of the cast & crew. And don't even get me started at the ending... IT WAS THE BEST ONE I COULD'VE EVER ASK FOR. THANK YOU P'AOF!! All the buckets of tears I shed have paid off at last. I'll forever cherish this tale :)

-1 point because 10 episodes is too short (jk)

Read More