Slow Start -> EXCELLENT Finish
Love upon a time is a show that started off slow and somewhat predictable, but slowly turned into a show that was unique and exquisitely done. I was really excited to see Net and JJ in main roles for a series, and they absolutely delivered on these roles! I am partial to soul mate/reincarnation tropes, so if that's not something you're into, this probably isn't for you - but if you're into it at all, this one is DEFINITELY worth watching! Just get through the slow start and it becomes a masterpiece.Nakun (JJ) has been having the worst luck ever, right as he turns 20. Thinking it can't get any worse, he has a few too many drinks and goes and watches the stars fall - only to end up transported back in time 400 years. There, Lord Phop (Net) informs him that he, now known as Klao, has been missing for awhile, and Phop is glad he has returned. Nakun now has to try to play the role of Klao, figure out why he got transported there, and how he can get back, all while falling in love with Phop.
The first few episodes were a little too silly, and had a few too many stereotypical/repetitive elements of "oh I'm not really back in time, I must be dreaming!" type plotpoints. However, as the actual plot of the show picked up, this show began to wow me. I don't know what has been happening with Mandee/Domundi recently but WOW they are killing it! I loved the attention to detail in this show, from the costumes to the language (and the slow assimilation of Nakun into the past dialect was wonderful). I think that as long as you're willing to watch the first few stereotypical sent back in time episodes, you are in for a real treat with this one! The amount of emotion these actors delivered was fantastic to watch, and NettJJ killed these roles. Not to mention, Latte and Kim as Jom and Kaew was such a nice addition! I loved all of the characters in this and cannot recommend it enough, especially if you like period pieces.
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Beautiful and interesting
I can't say anything about the authenticity of the sets, but they looked very real to my untrained eye. I think they must have put a lot of time and effort into the sets and clothing. The story was a beautiful romance, but I think the backdrop of the distance past made the love story more incredible and sometimes heartbreaking. I also truly enjoyed the additional plot of the opium smuggling and trying to clear Klao's father's name. The music was good and I really thought the cast outdid themselves. Everyone played their parts so well and I would definitely watch this again.That said, please don't hate me, but I miss James. I don't hate JJ, but honestly, sometimes he has such strange expressions that I can't totally fall in love with his character. Its like the comic, Not Sew Wicked Stepmom where the stepmom is one of those people who looks like she's evil every time she smiles, even if she's really nice. JJ has that smile. Not really resting b face, but the smile that makes it look like he's untrustworthy and plotting evil behind your back. Even when he's supposed to be making a loving face, that's the smile I see. I'm sure other people don't see it, but for some reason every smile in this series reminded me of the evil stepmom smile. I loved Net, as always. I honestly thought the whole cast was so talented, despite the evil smile. Sorry to all fans of NetJJ. Still love the series and would recommend!
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Gender doesn't matter for true love
I will give a solod 10 out 10 review for this as it is like the real world where in some countries the same sex marriage is not legally accepted and many of them are affected by that like can't be with there true love. I got happy tears for phop and nakhun when they got officially wed in the last episode.. they believed that they will re born in a generation where they can love without fear... i am soo happy that this is the best series in 2026.. we want a special episode for this series.... Please DMD please grant our wish... This series is like OH MY GOD i can't get out of this series....Was this review helpful to you?
Must Watch Series A Masterpiece
Like I said it's a must watch It was such a masterpiece from storyline to everything specially JJ because his acting was top notch ....... Greattttttt I'm saying as a person who's been here since Bed friends the series when Netjames broke their ship and cast was changed for this show I totally lost interest in this and thought it's not going to be good or it'll be weird to watch net with someone else BUT after that series finished airing then It was in my watchlist for so long then finally I watched it and It was one of the Best historical BL I've ever watched so detailed that a person wants to be part of that ERA.......... Seriously a must watch.Was this review helpful to you?
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time travel DONE RIGHT
oh my god! what an amazing amazing series!!as someone who's obsessed with you know, being together for life after life, and reincarnations.. this was a treat!
this series makes you travel with it. you're right there beside Klao figuring out why did it all happen!
it perfectly balances being a romance, a mystery, and a time travel story. as Klao gains memories, you gain clues as to what actually happened.
you feel betrayed, heartbroken, and happy as Klao, Phop, Kaew, Jom figure things out while navigating their own feelings.
I was a bit afraid as to how will they sum up their now life, meeting each other, knowing each other, in just one episode at the end but it was the most beautiful thing!
a must must watch! so well written. not a single plothole!
would've loved to see Chred being miserable tho :/
however, kinda left a sour taste in my mouth with the whole "i started watching over you for 2 years and planned the whole thing". i kinda don't like it when BL series do that, but especially this. if they were destined to meet, all of that wasn't needed
i would like to end this review by saying, KAEW/PUN. IT IS ILLEGAL HOW PRETTY YOU ARE!!!!
okay bye <3
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The past lovers trope can never go wrong, can it ?
I'm not a big fan of historic shows because I can never tell if they're all that accurate in stories but for NetJJ I decided I would give it a shot.I won't lie, when I started the first episode, I was confused of where and how this show was going to go, I'll be real, I didn't watch the pilot and I had only watched it because I needed a new show to watch whilst finishing my semester in college. But at the end of the first episode when JJ was running away from Net and all of their servants I decided I was going all the way through with this series.
As I said earlier, I had no idea where this show was going, I didn't watch the trailers, the pilot episode nor did I read the book. I was blindly raw-dogging the show based solely off the fact that I like NetJJ's pairing together.
As I continued through the series, it honestly became better. I never wanted the episodes to end either and was always looking forwards to my Friday's because I knew then that I would be able to indulge in my guilty pleasure (that being watching LUAT).
Although JJ is a new actor, I think he did super well playing as Nakhun and Klao. After I saw the first three episodes I finally decided to watch the original trailer/pilot (the one that has James in it) and I think it fit JJ a lot better (no hate to James though, I love him!). JJ brought the comedy, the seriousness and the romance so well that the difference in skills between him and Net didn't bother as it would usually do towards other couples.
The series was amazingly well paced, every episode I watched, I felt like when I started it and ended it, I understood everything I needed to. The episodes were long enough for me to understand but also because the writing and the acting was so good it felt like it was so short (all good things).
(MAJOR SPOILERS) :
I think it was either episode 11 or 12 when Phop and all the other servants, maids, etc., couldn't find Klao and had to assume that he had passed away was such a good scene. Net did so well with the acting, it's one of my favourite scenes throughout the entire show. I also think the show did well with other scenes like the scenes where PhopKlao were out shopping and people were reacting negatively towards their relationship (that being a homosexual relationship), despite Klao (Nakhun) being from the 21st century Bangkok Thailand where homosexuality is something that is celebrated (as it should be) and not something I would conclude as out of the norm, he still felt a lot more shame than Phop despite Phop being from that time. It also showed the same sentiment with Jom being sometimes ashamed of being seen as "too close" romantically with Kaew (that stemming from TutorYim's characters basically being shamed and killed for being together).
I think something that should also be celebrated is that the show sticked to it's plot until the very last minute, when Nakhun went into the past, he wanted to solve his father's wrongful murder about the opium and usually for BLs it's more commun for them to just end up forgetting the plot in the last episode, I'm glad they mentionned what happened to that plot when Nakhun and Tinnaphop went back to the city in the present.
I oh-so loved the pass-lovers thing with PhopKlao and TinnaphopNakhun, it was lowkey giving Khemjira lol. Seeing their love story prevail was very sweet. I would one hundred percent give this recommend this show to people if they ever asked. 10/10 for me.
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Quick and Honest Review: Love Upon A Time
Have too many shows in your watch list and want to know whether this show will be worth your time? My quick to read review might be that.Content warning before proceeding to watch the show: Themes of homophobia and societal rejection are heavily explored.
Strengths
+ High production value
+ Well acted out tear jerker moments
+ Loveable cast you can get attached to
+ Has a predictable but engaging mystery plot
+ Main story has proper conclusion
+ K-Drama esque cliffhangers that will keep you running to watch the next ep
Weaknesses
- Slow paced for the first half, fast paced for the second half
- Weak ending for such a strong show. Feels rushed and not as fleshed out as the rest of the show
- Proper conclusion for the story and the main leads but not the supporting cast.
- Comic relief side characters can get annoying at times
- Much more could be done in the present time
- Not necessarily plot holes but some aspects remain left unexplored.
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I might sound a little biased, but I have always loved series that allow me to see culture and beautiful sceneries, and this one delivers that so well. The way it presents Thailand adds a certain depth and charm to the story, making it feel more immersive rather than just something you watch casually. It creates an atmosphere that stays with you, making each episode feel more meaningful.
What truly surprised me the most is how much I have come to love the cast, especially Net and JJ. I did not expect to get this attached, but their performances feel sincere and natural. Net carries a quiet intensity that makes every glance feel important, while JJ brings a softness that balances everything so beautifully. Their chemistry feels effortless and genuine, not forced, but something that grows on you the more you watch. There are moments where they do not even need dialogue because their expressions already say everything, and those are often the scenes that leave the strongest impact.
The story unfolds in a gentle yet captivating way. It does not rush, and that is what makes it stand out. Instead, it allows you to sit with the characters, to understand them, and to slowly connect with their journey. It is more than just romance. It touches on timing, longing, and the quiet complexities of love, which makes it feel deeper and more reflective. I often find myself thinking about the story even after the episode has ended.
The music blends so seamlessly with the series that it almost feels like part of the storytelling itself. It enhances emotions without overpowering them, making certain scenes hit even harder. There are moments where the music alone can bring back the feeling of a scene, and that kind of impact is something not every series can achieve.
This is also the kind of series that holds strong rewatch value. It is filled with small details, subtle expressions, and quiet moments that you begin to appreciate even more the second time around. Watching it again feels like revisiting something familiar yet still meaningful, like holding on to a feeling you are not quite ready to let go of.
Overall, Love Upon a Time feels like a quiet gem that truly deserves more attention. Net and JJ definitely deserve this series, and it is clear how much heart was put into bringing it to life. I really hope more people give this a chance because it is honestly worth it. We all have different preferences, and that is completely okay, but sometimes trying something new leads to unexpected favorites. Who knows, you might end up loving this series just as much as I do. ִֶ ִֶָ🪽་༘࿐
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A Time Travel BL That Hooks You Instantly
Wow, what a premiere. MandeeWork have done it again. From the very first episode, Love Upon a Time pulls you in with its unique concept and doesn’t let go.Net and JJ are back, and their presence alone already guarantees something special, but this time it feels even bigger. A historical Thai BL set in the Ayutthaya period with a time travel twist is such a refreshing change, and the execution so far is seriously impressive. The production, cinematography, and attention to historical detail make everything feel rich and immersive without losing that signature BL charm.
The first episode strikes the perfect balance between humor and intrigue. It’s genuinely funny in moments, yet there’s an underlying mystery that keeps you curious. Watching Klao struggle to adapt to a world without modern technology is both entertaining and surprisingly relatable. You can already tell the chaos is coming, and it’s going to be so fun to watch unfold.
The chemistry is another highlight. Net as Phop brings a quiet intensity, while JJ’s portrayal adds a layer of charm and confusion that works perfectly for the story. Their dynamic already feels engaging, and the slow build of their relationship is something to really look forward to.
Every cast member fits their role well, and no one feels out of place. It’s rare to see such a strong ensemble right from episode one.
If this premiere is anything to go by, Love Upon a Time is shaping up to be one of those hidden gems that deserves way more attention. The concept is fresh, the execution is solid, and the potential is huge.
This is the kind of series that reminds you why you love Thai BL in the first place.
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Love That Lingers Beyond Time: NetJJ’s Chemistry in Love Upon a Time Is Simply Unforgettable
The moment Love Upon a Time was announced with Net and JJ, expectations were already sky-high—and honestly, it did not disappoint.What makes this series stand out immediately is the acting. Net delivers a performance that feels grounded yet emotionally intense. There’s a certain quiet depth in the way he portrays longing and restraint, making even the smallest gestures feel meaningful. JJ, on the other hand, balances him perfectly with a more expressive and layered approach. His ability to shift from light, almost playful moments to deeply vulnerable scenes is what truly elevates their dynamic. Together, their chemistry feels natural, not forced—it flows in a way that makes you believe in every moment they share.
For a series that has built so much anticipation even before it began, they truly prove something—and it shows. All that experience, all the expectations surrounding them, translated into performances that feel refined and sincere. Honestly, they’ve gained a new fan in me, and I’ll definitely continue supporting these actors in their upcoming series in the future.
The story itself leans into a mix of romance, fate, and emotional growth. It’s not just about love in the present, but love that transcends time, choices, and consequences. While the pacing may feel slow in certain parts, it actually works in favor of the narrative, allowing viewers to sit with the characters and understand their motivations. The emotional payoff hits harder because of this build-up. It’s the kind of story that lingers even after an episode ends.
The cast deserves just as much praise. Supporting characters are not just fillers—they each bring something essential to the story. Whether it’s adding tension, warmth, or even moments of comic relief, the ensemble feels cohesive. No one feels out of place, which makes the world of the series more immersive.
As for rewatch value, this is where Love Upon a Time really shines. It’s the kind of series you’d want to revisit—not just for the romance, but for the subtle details you might have missed the first time. The emotional scenes hit differently when you already know what’s coming, and certain lines carry more weight on a second watch. It’s comforting and painful in the best way possible.
Overall, Love Upon a Time isn’t just another BL series—it’s an experience. With strong performances, a heartfelt story, and undeniable chemistry, Net and JJ have truly created something memorable. Definitely a series that earns its place on repeat.
P.S. If you find this review a little biased—well, it probably is in certain parts. I just fell in love with them the moment I saw clips of them together on my TikTok feed… haha.
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This review may contain spoilers
Love that transcends a lifetime
June 12, 2026Love Upon A Time is that motherfucking Thai BL of the year. Holy plot, it is so well-written. I never read the novel so I have no opinions regarding the adaptation. But as a drama, I must say I never had a boring experience with the show and characters. Phop and Klao/Nakhun really shows how a true great love is. I love this show so much, I am already looking forward to rewatching it in the future. I will miss waiting for Fridays to come just so I can tune in for the newest episode.
The chemistry is amazing, the characters are so well-written and well-rounded. The drama and angst were executed (pun intended) well.
You guys please give Love Upon A Time, the one true greatest love they deserve.
Ps, I can’t wait for more NetJJ and LatteKim projects, I hope they pick up good scripts and plot like this DMD. I am begging you!!!
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