This review may contain spoilers
One word summary: Beautiful
Really, everything in this show was simply beautiful. The story, the relationships, cinematography and the acting and everything in between. Even the imperfections in each character were beautiful because of the history behind them. They were realistic portrayals of flawed human beings. Even so, the show had so much heart, and not the soft, superficial kind.Speaking of Heart, right off the bat I have to say Gemini did a phenomenal job in his role. Like, mindblowingly so. For a young, relatively new actor, he gave the best performance in this show in my opinion. I was more invested in Heart and Li Ming's development as both a couple and as individuals than anyone else in the series. Without having seen any trailers or info about the show beforehand, I didn't even know Gemini and Fourth were in it so when they first showed up on screen, I was a little worried it would be the same as My School President, but it was anything but. Honestly, these actors get a better chance to shine when they are taken out of the school setting and placed in more realistic and mature scenarios.
Speaking of casting, while I loved Earth and his character, I had a hard time reminding myself that he's supposed to be near 40 in this. Like, he's not even 30 yet, nor does he look it, so why would they constantly try to make him seem as such? They did the same thing in Tale of Thousand Stars where he was supposed to be near 40 and I just call "bullsh*t." I mean, realistically, in the BL drama category, the actors have a very short lifespan as they start to approach 30, now the writers/casting directors want us to believe these guys in their 20s are actually 40? I'm torn because I loved Earth's performance and I like him as an actor overall, but I think the story would have been just as good if they said Jim was, say, 30-32. It still provides the age difference storyline without taking it too far out of the realm of possibility.
All of the relationships, not just romantic, were complicated and some were strained while others were so tight knit giving a balance throughout the show. The friendship between the diner staff had me feeling envious while the less than perfect relationship Li Ming had with his mother was very raw and, honestly, refreshing. I know some see Li Ming as just a moody teenager but he was just so very REAL. When he was having the conversation with Jim about his feelings toward his mom and whether he actually loved her when she's essentially a stranger, I wanted to applaud the writers. So many times, the characters just blindly love and follow their parents even when they don't deserve it. Just because someone gave birth, doesn't make them a true "parent." It's a messy and complicated type of relationship that is sometimes considered even more taboo to bring up in conversation than talking about sexuality but they handled it really well here.
I know a lot of people would have liked a longer series and honestly, I get it. It was so good that instinctually, we just want more of it. But as far as the overall plot, I think 8 episodes was perfect. It didn't need any filler with silly storylines like miscommunication or misunderstandings that tend to go on for multiple episodes.
This is a good series to have on hand when you need a pick-me-up from the weight of the world. It will definitely get a rewatch from me, that's for sure.
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Overall, this was really nice
I've been a big Earth/Mix since A Tale of a Thousand Stars, which is one of my all time favorite BLs. Moonlight Chicken was an interesting series, here are my pros and cons:PROS
REALISM. Moonlight Chicken touched on some real-life topics in a refreshingly realistic way: deafness, semi-poverty, unrequited love, unexpected death in the family, the pain of a breakup, the fear of entering into a new relationship after having been burned, difficulties with parenting... these were all dealt with realistically and sensitively.
GAY CHARACTERS. Thank you!
ACTING. Everyone delivered. Fourth and Gemini were adorable, Earth/Mix/First were professional as expected, and Khaotung was heartbreaking in what I feel is, so far, his best performance in a series. The supporting characters were excellent as well.
CINEMATOGRAPHY. Beautifully filmed.
CONS
BORING AT TIMES. For me, some of it was uninteresting. I felt less invested in JimWen as a couple than LimingHeart, only because JimWen weren't all that fascinating as people, IMO. They just came across as very ordinary and -- dare I say -- not really noteworthy as main characters in a series.
ALAN/GAIPA. I was REALLY disappointed that the producers/screenwriters put AlanGaipa together at the end. Why? Because the story was so realistic up to that point. It felt (to me) like the writers felt obligated to put First and Khao together to satisfy their shippers. Alan just happens to be the same banker that Jim has, Wen's ex... and then, in a move that only be described as extremely tacky and insensitive, he shows up at grief-stricken Gaipa's mom's funeral to discuss business.... and Gaipa falls for him. It was unrealistic and totally took me out of the story which, up to that point, had been well written and thought out. I really wish the producers would have left that alone.
It's an 8.0 from me, which would would have been higher without the AlanGaipa intervention.
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A masterpiece: a truly underappreciated, hidden gem.
If you're looking for something fast paced- then this isn't for you. Moonlight Chicken is stylistic and very aesthetically beautiful, it's a warm and sometimes angsty slice of life of everyday people just living life and trying to make ends meet.It brings up issues of poverty, class, hardships and tragedy; the lack of opportunities, interpersonal relationships and how even when there's love and good intentions, poor communication can make one feel trapped and miserable. This series takes its time to introduce and go through these topics with these very real and very human characters that come from diverse stages of life. The sense of community and family is super present here and it's really made me laugh, cry and feel with these characters which is honestly so special. If you like to watch complex and believably flawed characters navigate complex interpersonal relationships, then this is for you!
With a cast like this- gosh this show was blessed AND it's a P'Aof directorial? Yes, please! It also includes the perfect song choice which is sung by Ford Allan.
In my opinion, each and every actor held their own but they all have such different characters that it makes it harder to appreciate their craft and each of their portrayals. Even the side characters are masterfully crafted and portrayed; and are ready to steal your hearts!
Earth's performance of uncle Jim is a more subtle one yet it's purposeful in this low-key character. It's easy to miss it. Mix is able to embody the open minded and charismatic Wen who's searching for something more. He's understanding and such an essential part of the cast.
This was GeminiFourth's first significant supporting roles- as this was filmed before My School President- I wouldn't say that they'd stolen the show like other users have, but I'd argue that Li Ming and Heart are just as much of main characters as EarthMix's Jim and Wen. Phenomenal and very commendable performances from both of the boys especially as rookies in this very experienced and established cast of actors. They were both able to hold their own and definitely held a lot of the spotlight with their charming storylines. I was really amazed at how Fourth was able to portray the intricacies of Li Ming's emotions and internal frustrations; I adore all of the characters in their own light but Li Ming is definitely my favourite! Gemini's portrayal of a deaf boy was so spot on and completely believable; after having watched the behind-the-scenes of MLC, you can really appreciate all of the preparation and dedication that he'd put into his first significant role. Very impressive and definitely payed off.
Mark's Leng/Saleng was a great addition to the cast, and so were Aey, Chokchai, Lookwa, Papang and View in their respective roles. And then there's First. He committed so much to his character and when he shows up he absolutely kills the role; there's not much else I can say without spoiling it.
Last but not least, Khaotung's performance as Gaipa/Kaipa (apparently his character's name is Kaipa but the subtitles call him Gaipa. It's confusing). It's no secret that the guy's a great all 'round actor but his performance here has got to be my absolute favorite role of his yet! He's not a main lead but he almost feels like he is. His performance was phenomenal and lovable and I just don't have any more words for it. Please just trust me in this one!
As of writing this review, I've finally gotten around to rewatching this underappreciated, hidden gem; this series really is like a warm hug that just so happens to also encompass all of the emotions that one could ever possibly feel, during a hug.
I'm loving this rewatch just as much as I did when I was watching Moonlight Chicken premiering for the first time last year; for me, this has a huge rewatch value. I've just got to say that I'd forgotten just how angsty and painful some of the scenes and relationships can be. It really is such a journey and a joy to experience.
My Rating: 9.876/10 stars
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Its alright...
See, fourthgemini are doing so good in this show but i can't say the same thing abt earthmix. the storyline is weird for them. i mean, the whole one night stand is bullshit. why tf would you bring a drunk guy in your house in your personal bedroom??? there was a goddamn sofa. ngl im not a huge fan of earth's acting as well (please don't attack me or expose my ip address). its a personal opinion.first is doing very well no doubt. khao is also pretty good except i found the rejection scene a bit extra but everyone handles rejection in different ways right?
fourth and gemini are too good.
also, love mark's character. just wholesome
SPOILER
jim's gonna be one hypocrite in ep7 after he saw li ming and heart kiss. "we're already poor and now you're gay?" bruh isn't that you as well...
anyways definitely gonna complete the show cuz im here for firstkhao and fourthgemini haha
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This could have been a masterpiece...
Lets rename this to "Walled Jim, Cat Commercial, Slutty Wen and the best teen romance". I am never harsh on anything, but I had such a high expectation from this project.For such a high level cinematography it was poorly written. Who came up with the story? The dialogues? How was this person allowed to touch the production. The fact that the support couple absolutely stole the show without getting undressed is telling that two different people scripted this. Yes the whole visual execution and sound is top notch, the rest is alright. And yes, teens stole the show hands down.
Jim - the main character is too complex. The speed that he takes his shirt off and builds his wall up is not even cute, but annoying. I was expecting more from Earth to bring to the show.
Wen- second main character is summarized in that popular song "Im just thinking with my D, my sh$t dumb". And if "I don't get what I want, I will make everyone else miserable".
But then these is a second lead couple- beautiful teens doing beautiful teen stuff. Cut everything else out.
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Earth: Uncle Jim is 40 years old, but his decision+Composure+Experience has been also not showing well
Chicken Rice It takes a long time to cook and it's a very difficult food to cook. There is water to boil the soup and add ingredients to cook, cooking rice, making dipping sauces. But I still haven't seen Uncle Jim do anything.He spent his time on walking, sitting, talking and walking around. Even chopping chicken, chopping chicken doesn't look like professional.
Some of the actors did it well, like Saleng, Kaipa, Li Ming.
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This review may contain spoilers
It’s not our basic drama to be frank
Moonlight chicken - played by earthmix is one of a kind dramaFirst things first , they have a one night stand at the first few minutes of the episode and then the story begins
If we see other first night stands drama , the romance starts or begins immediately after the night but here it’s different because JIM was avoiding the dating thing till the last episode and the drama would have more potential if they actually showed how JIM has got the feelings or why WEE never gave up on JIM
This is the first drama where I saw that the top had trauma and the bottom didn’t give up on the top cause usually it’s the other way around
But this doesn’t affect the overall story - it’s interesting and has progress but not in a romantic way that we expect from reading the story line
Actually after reading the story line I had high expectations, though this drama didn’t turn out in the way I thought it would , it still showed us the other elements around the romance!
The theme I would describe is EVEN THOUGH IM A RED FLAG OR HAVE FLAWS IN ME I STILL WANT YOU AND ONLY YOU
BOTH WEE AND LI MING NEVER GAVE UP ON JIM AND HEART
the story is cute and nice but please don’t have. High expectations and watch it! But still it was great cinematography and the songs and lighting 11/10 for that
It has flaws but it’s worth the watch
Will miss this one
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Comfort in a Show
I went in thinking I was gonna be bored. I was never a slice of life guy but my god. The writing in this was SOOO human and down to earth? It felt so genuine and gentle. Every episode was like a soft warm blanket around me, a plot that held you tightly and comforted you even through tears. An episode was an hour but I didn't even notice and usually I hate hour long episodes! Absolutely recommend.Was this review helpful to you?
Watchable drama
I feel the people who are giving less ratings but I hope they shouldn’t concentrate on only one couple and give the ratings anyhow guys I’m big fan of all the actors they are really good at everything for acting it’s just that some plots are not that entertaining but I like the deaf boy couple I watched the series just because of them it was really sweet and cute I love that couple their chemistry was another level I enjoyed it and finished within a day and as per ratings I gave high why? Because of this couple and main leads are good but it’s just their story wasn’t upto mark I hope they get other stories and do well . I guess we can give 8 above for this drama I gave bze I’m fan of all the leads and mainly for dead couple so people can watch their stories… all the best guysWas this review helpful to you?
This couple is worth to watch!
To be short the long review. I really love this couple of how they Portrait their Characters in different ways. The eyes that always speaking itself that always captured my attention while I'm watching. This love team is like a chocolate that you can create a different variety that everyone gonna love it. Jim and Wen please keep it up and make your love team stronger than ever. To be honest In this series, all the good actors is here. Well done everyone. The story is so realistic that happens in every relationship, family matters and to the society. Thank you so much and hoping to see you both in more projects and as a love team. Yeheyyyyy🥰🥰🥰Was this review helpful to you?
In regards to Earth and Mix, again, their acting here was impeccable. From across the screen, it was easy to feel the raw tension as well as Wen's desperate desire for Jim in a way that is not riddled with toxicity and inappropriateness. Through this pair, the issue of familial homophobia is brough to light thanks to (not really) Jim's family. It is here we witness the birth of Jim's craving for a successful loving relationship, which happens despite all the negatively he faces from not only his family but the general public as well. The failing of this relationship serves as the catalyst for Jim locking himself away from opening his heart to another man again. This compounded with the burden of poverty and a failing business builds the narrative for Jim's character throughout the series. Wen on the other hand, may not be as complex as Jim but he still has his own internal struggles. His reluctance to take the initive and move out of the shared condo with his ex despite them being broken up for quite some time shows his unwillinesses to move on, which later down the series, is due to fear of not having a safety net to fall back on to.
Gemini and Fourth both did an amazing job that I refuse to speak on it, you must watch it for yourself. Their performance was better than some seniors who have been in this industry for twice as long as them.
Khaotung's performance, both acting and singing proves to show just how multitalented he is. His character is jam packed with nothing but good intentions and emotions.
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Queer Life and Love
This show absolutely devastated me in the best way possible.It's pitch-perfect from the acting, to the cinematography, to the music, it's all spectacular.
But most importantly it's entirely driven by a cast of deeply likeable if flawed characters whose various pasts and hardships shape their lives in a multitude of ways.
As is to be expected with a project led by P'Aof, the show addresses a variety of real life issues from disability, to socio-economic inequality, to homophobia (both societal and internalised), to simply how messy break-ups can be.
Combined with the excellent writing this makes all the characters feel almost painfully like real people and makes every scene, from the light-hearted to the deeply serious, highly impactful.
This is one of those rare cases where I love a show so much I have virtually nothing to say about it, so I will simply leave you with this:
This series is incredibly meaningful both in how touching it is and in what it means for the queer community.
As a queer person, this story made me feel good - seen and respected and loved.
It's a perfectly paced, quietly angsty yet wholly comforting slice-of-life we all deserve.
Do yourself a favour and go watch it it you haven't already.
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