This Is Literally The First GMMTV ADAPTATION I LIKED
High School Frenemy is based off of School 2013, a South Korean drama about 2 Best Friends that ended their Relationship on bad terms when one hurt the other in multiple ways. These 2 Friends Reunite when they become classmates at school. The Korean Version starred Kim Woo Bin and Lee Jong Suk. Two KDRAMA STUDS.Would I normally even start a GMMTV ADAPTATION. Heck no, I'd rather watch dogs bark at a cat up a tree but why this one?
First I adored the Korean Version. Second Sky and Nani. Their chemistry is insane and I'm not going to lie I was so pulling for their friendship. They're friendship was more like a relationship. These guys shared a deep abiding love which is why the BL Community called this a romance and not a bromance.
Sky and Nani deliver on all pistons.
The cast was nothing short of amazing (except Mark) I'm not a fan of Mark at all seeing that guy on screen makes me want to to turn it off and to be clear I don't mean Mark that played Chadjen but the Mark that played Cable the principal's son. Every one else was fantastic in my opinion.
The other Mark, The Good Mark made me love him more than ever and the release of his upcoming BL Sweet Tooth, Good Dentist.
All the Girls did a great job. Love all of them.
Eliminate Mark as Cable and this would have been Top 10.
Did they out do Korea...no not at all but they matched them closely in their own way.Sky and Nani were excellent. Can't say that enough.
Now WU will this be a BL or another Bromance?
This series is worth the watch.
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Excessive Violence For A Thai Series.
The Thai producers should have altered the original South Korean script to make it more believable in a Thai setting. To me the excesdive violence was a bit too Korean in style to be believed in a Thai series. That written, the two male leads Sky Wongravee Nateetorn and Kay Hirunkit Changkham were both excellent in their roles and interacted with each other with great skill. Mark Pakin Kunaanuwit playing the autistic Chadjen stole the show however and is the most memorable character in the entire drama. For old times sake, I was pleased to see Chayakorn and Chayapol Jutumas acting together again in the same series.Was this review helpful to you?
IMINA SKYNANI
HSF was definitely worth watching. Can't believe today (the 3rd December) is the last episode already. Their acting is so great, the story is great. I'm glad I really got to know them, get to know this serie. My mondays and tuesdays with them were great, crying watching the sad scenes, crying seeing these two (SkyNani) reconcile, crying seeing these two happy and Saint defending and fighting for their friendship and Shin telling him the true reason why he was mad at him. Looking forward to WU, whether it's a BL or bromance, I'll gladly watch it. Even if these two might not be together in Mu-Te-Luv, I'll try my best to support them through all their series (even if a part of mewanna see them as BL partners). IMINA SKYNANI!!Was this review helpful to you?
Redemption
I knew from jump I wanted to experience this drama. Fourteen episodes in, I am still amazed. The acting is so good, especially between Shin and Saint. I couldn't have guessed how they could revert from frenemies, but it was done in such a smooth and transtional way, I was wow-ed.This series carries redemption in almost every characters life. From friendship, to learning, to making wrongs right.
Chadjen is the glue that holds it all together. Especially proud of the way Mark played this character. As an aunt to an autistic child, its good to see a functioning person on the spectrum.
Fighting! For the next two episodes. Will update.
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a bRomance
Listen, if you're not looking for an almost love story between two guys, just move along. While this show is NOT BL, it's working overtime to give you the same kind of feels.Shin and Saint have a twisted past, and after an unexpected reunion, despite how Saint tries their relationship will never be the same again. The two used to be inseparable, right and left hands in a dangerous gang, now just the sight of eachother will trigger a fight. As their story unfolds more and more of their painful history comes to the surface, a story full of mistakes and misunderstandings that leave them both hurting. It's not an incredibly original story, and it's a little more drawn out than it needs to be, but the level of tension that the story builds adds a nice touch and I'm enjoying it for the most part.
The actors really make this show, Sky and Nani are both incredibly talented and their bromantic chemistry is definitely tangible. Mark has always been a diamond but playing a sweet kid with autism was a great new stretch to his range, honestly the whole crew is packed with talent. I will say I don't know who cast this, but between Sky and their Thai language teacher, someone must have put "needs to look like they're on the verge of crying 24/7" in the requirements because... yeah it gets to be a bit much.
Good production quality, the shots were well done, and I enjoy the action packed scenes.
Overall its a little over the top to just be a bromance, and a little short of being a good BL, so it kind of falls in this weird gap of leaving you wanting more, or less I guess if you weren’t hoping for a romance. I think the acting and the chemistry makes it worth the watch either way, and the story is interesting enough to keep you wondering what happens next, so give it a try! There are still several episodes left so if anything changes I'll update the review as needed.
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This review may contain spoilers
This was So impactful
it's been a while I wrote a review on thisapp and this one deserves it soo much
being a part of hsf fandom since the pilot dropped and I am soo proud of the boys the whole cast and gmmtv thank you for giving us saint shin
the emotional rollercoaster of friendship
really made everything soo special
no matter how many times we joke about saint shin being in love and plz kiss each other we cannot deny the chemistry that sky nani bought to the show , it was cherry on top the music is perfect the storyline flows perfectly, evryone Got there redemption
tears were shed , bonds were made gmmtv gave us perfect example of how good teachers will always play important role in life 😭 , kudos to every actor
the director stunt team music department
evrything was perfect
and most importantly IMINA SKYNANI 🙏
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SKYNANI'S CHEMISTRY PROVES THEIR HIGH CAPACITY AS ACTORS
SKYNANI IS OBVIOUSLY THE MAIN REASON WHY I LIKE THIS SERIES SO MUCH. Their chemistry is insanely good. That is what adds quality to this show. But not only that, the conflicts, the cast, cinematography.AND HERE ARE MORE DETAILS:
SKYNANI’S VISUALS
They’re both dead gorgeous. Nani’s cute and handsome at the same time, his eyes are absolutely stunning. He has this elegant and mysterious vibe, while Sky’s handsome and cool, but also well-built, and has this positive aura about himself. The fact that they resemble a cat and a dog makes it even better. They seem to be completing each other. And this, however, contributes to me thinking that they are a perfect match and are ideal for having the roles of Saint and Shin.
SKYNANI’S ACTING/CHEMISTRY
Not only are their visuals extremely breath-taking, but also their acting skills. Their chemistry is off the charts! The way they look at each other is so beautiful. The way they convey their feelings through their eyes is simply brilliant. In their “love-hate” relationship shown in the couple of first episodes, you can clearly see how much Shin’s suffering when the topic of the past SaintShin’ friendship is raised. And that emotion is excellently reflected in Nani's eyes. It’s the same while showing anger. And it's not only his eyes. It's also his sighs and overall body language that depicts him being uncomfortable, deeply wounded or simply in pain. His contemptuous smirks were great too. But when Nani smiles, oh my, he shines so brightly. Similarly, Sky’s puppy-face-like expressions seem more than suitable for portraying Saint’s feelings of deep regret for what he did to Shin in the past. It's also likewise, when he’s tearing up for the mentioned reasons. But him acting angry is something else.
Back to the topic of chemistry, I must say, every time they look at each other, it gives me butterflies. You can feel that tension between them. And although it's labeled as a bromance, the 'more than friends' feels accurate too. That's how good their chemistry is. I mean, If they did not need to kiss, and the chemistry is still chemistrying hard, then that only proves the capacity of the actors. Everyone can tell that there's love between SaintShin. What a beautiful bond!
PLOT
Firstly, I need to say that I haven’t watched the original ‘School 2013’ that this series is based on, so I have no comparison whatsoever. But it doesn't change the fact that I truly adore ‘High School Frenemy’. The story unfolds gradually and slowly. I really enjoy that. The whole SaintShin' situation touches the heart. Shin’s frustration and Saint's determination is totally understandable. Both of them have been deeply hurt. You get to know their own perspectives of their conflict. Their bond is immensely beautiful. You get to witness some sweet moments too. And there is also this Jeng and Ken issue that needs to be resolved. Ken's story is truly distressing. People in such difficult situations often think that there is no way out, and it's totally understandable. During the series, several times appears the theme of trying to help someone who doesn't want to accept your help. I know it can be very exasperating for both sides. Sometimes it is really problematic to reach a mutual understanding. The same goes for the motive of overcontrolling parents that also occurs in the show. Both parents and kids can be gunuinely hurt, when this type of matter arrives.The whole series is packed with all kinds of feelings. I'm telling you, just watch it already!
PRODUCTION
In most Thai series the cinematography is on point and here it wasn't otherwise. However, when it comes to fighting scenes, some of the camera angles weren't the best choice. It could be improved. But those are literally the tiniest flaws that could be found. They're nothing compared to the overall series. The scenography was good. All the school uniforms, classrooms and other shooting locations were rather pleasing to the eye. As for the music, in some cases it was okay, in some it could be better, but it could be worse also. Nevertheless I really enjoyed the intro. It suits the character of the series well. And the SkyNani' ‘Promise’ song is really cute.
CONCLUSION
I'm really grateful for this series and obviously for pairing SkyNani together. I love their dynamic so much. Nice plot, great actors, everyone did a great job and what are you doing, still reading this review, go watch the series right now, and if you already did, you can always rewatch it! Can't wait for upcoming SkyNani projects! 😭💖
Sending positive energy to everyone who's reading it 💕
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♾️/10....
💫When a person was a hot-blooded mad dog, he accidentally bit his current owner, so he became a stray dog that follows its owner around.Two old best friends divided by Past mistakes, united by love again.Drama plot:
Which country actually allows this kind of violence in school? It was okay to beat teachers, fighting like thugs until it wasn't Shin. But when it came to Shin they suddenly became concern about students not having good surroundings.I was like Excuse me just say you have problems with Shin. Legacy of Thep burapha and Udon pithak continued but that wasn't concerning enough to School committee. Fake fighting scenes were an eyesore . When Saint was beating Shin suddenly bl0od disappeared when Shin broke his leg and started screaming. If anyone ignores cliche flaws the story is definitely good and their friendship development is eye catching specially Ken's friendship with others. The main thing is if I judge it from straight perspective no way I can forgive the person who shattered my lifelong dream who was once my best friend more like a soulmate. But yeah if Shin can do it's his life and decisions. One of the highlights for me was how the show dealt with themes of loyalty, personal growth, and forgiveness.The twins had the quickest development ever so does Ken.
📍Main plot:
Main plot for me was SaintShin ,chadjen,chingching,ken that is ♾️/10 . Dramatic intense gaze between Saint & Shin wasn't enough convincing to be mere best friends in the first place. How Shin treats Saint compared to his other friends is undeniable. The looks they saves for Each Other is like
" Gonna spend my whole energy looking at you, I don't care about you but I'll do everything a couple do just like no one is there except you, you're the last thing in the world for me , I'm kissing you definitely but no one will notice except chadjen"
The tenderness in their gaze definitely worth to compare with Chinese censored bls that is called bromance. peak chemistry these two share is amazing beyond words! Their mesmerising charm was like peeling an onion which invokes such an emotional rollercoaster after every layer. Just like lovers turning into raging enemies without hatred but angst. Flashbacks of their teenage lovely days after every two episodes was heart touching in the main time burning flames intensifying the urge to touch vulnerability. Without being couple they're already more of a couple than many of the official pairings. Every single SaintShin moment was screaming unresolved sexual tensions that's enough to make you yearn and yell at the screen "JUST KISS ALREADY". Saints' casual conversation with shin
"Giving up most important things, I love you, again I love you, I want you back like old days, I'm not giving up on you, you'll end up with me , I'll do everything whatever you say ,give me s hug,are we dating or just friends, you're everything to me, couple pictures,etc" which ended with both of their confessions.
Kudos to Sky and Nani to convey every part perfectly or more than perfection. Y'all already noticed just how much Nani improved since his past works . It's really deserves appreciates and Sky as marvellous as always . And Mark the phenomenal actor as chadjen proved again how great he is. Except teachers and school committee everyone did the best of them. Kudos to everyone👏🏻. Special Kudos to sweet little girl who acted as chingching definitely my most fav character with chadjen. This is SkyNani's first work together and they won our hearts to the extreme level that everyone around them admits.
This show proved that it's possible to create an engaging BL with a strong script, solid acting , perfect screen writing with genuine levitating chemistry between two boys .
Trending on twitter every week is unusual for Lakorns mainly without being old ship,old couple and limited marketing is really something. To sum up they used queerbaiting but I don't mind at all instead I liked more & more. Definitely a great BL without being BL . They made history being the first non bl couple to receive such massive support through their natural chemistry .
I'm sorry if there's any mistake or feels like less.. I'm overwhelmed and extremely happy that reviewing this one feels like touching a vulnerable soft thing that shouldn't be touched 🥲. . Damn 8 week of rollercoaster feelings that made my facial structures different from genuine blushing and giggling 🤭.
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Just Amazing.!!! Go and watch it...!
The storyline, the acting, the characters, the visuals, the ost, everything is amazing. The chemistry between the two mcs Saint and Shin is literal perfection. Two ex bestfriends turned enemies and the tension between them is just🤌. I guess they wanted us to ship these two from the beginning and my God did they succeed..I loved whatever was going on between them and the ending made it clear that they are soulmates. Even side characters played their roles well. Never thought I would like a gmmtv series but here we are. Also this might be the only series that I am definitely going to rewatch because I miss them already.They are both very down bad for each other but one is like a Yandere and the other one a Tsundere lol.
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THE BEST NON-BL BUT ACTUALLY A BL DRAMA OF 2024
BEST COUPLE OF THE YEAR 2024 and ahead is SKYNANI...one of the best acting ever in both of their career. They did their best and their chemistry was out of the world. I'm looking forward to their upcoming drama in 2025 called WU. I manifest it to be a BL series as this series was bromance, but it still broke our low expectations for a bromance and satisfied us to the peak.TBH it was a ROMANCE drama of two boys without a kiss. I loved it. As a pro-BL watcher, I can tell that some of the BL actors do not have any chemistry that these two bromance couples have. Their chemistry is at its peak. Must match drama.IMINA SKYNANI
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I didn’t want this to end
At first, the first 4 episodes were tiring for me to watch as I don’t really do well with extreme violence like that but I’m so glad I stuck with it.This show further proves that you don’t need intimate scenes to establish a bond between lovers. Yes I call them lovers cos normal friendship cannot be like this. But if yours is like this, then kudos to you and your friend. hehe..
I love how they were able to break through. Not just the main leads, but the other characters too did well. They really defined what true friendship meant. The teachers were awesome as well. Really portrayed how amazing some teachers are irl.
The story is fantastic. They really did justice to the original version - School 2013. Love the OST and was really proud of SkyNani for singing the OST to the drama. Their vocals are truly wonderful.
Would highly recommend this drama. It’s really a masterpiece
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This review may contain spoilers
Get ready to cry, laugh, scream, love - a rollercoaster ride of emotions that'll make you want more
Do you know of that feeling where you scream all through the show at the electric chemistry between the lead pair and desperately want them to confess their love to each other? Yes, this is that kind.BL-needle Score: 10> Needle broke !!! Very high BL-ness.....yeah yeah, they insist it is (B)romance, but we know better
This show is the best thing since TharnType in terms of the intense romantic/sexual tensions between the lead pair.
Saint and Shin are childhood best buddies (my interpretation - more like boys in deep love, but clueless about it, like how only teenagers can be), who fall out due to an act of juvenile immaturity and violence, that halts Shin's soccer dreams...Saint initially runs away after the incident, unable to face the hurt he has caused to his best friend, and when he returns later, Shin's mom forbids him to see Shin ever again.....fast forward a few years, they meet since their school campuses are merged and they end up in the same Class 2 of their now merged campus, infamous for the violence and troubled lot of students....Shin apparently hates Saint, and no amount of apologies, convincing, and efforts from Saint are able to move him...or so he pretends.....but its all too plain that their love and all that pent-up hurt is just waiting to burst forth....the story then follows the meandering and frequently violent path of reconciliation between Saint and Shin, and also several of their troubled friends....with some of the friends and teachers acting as key enablers to that journey towards healing and hope
A special mention here for the character Chadjen, played by Mark...Chadjen is plain love ... he is an autistic friend of Saint and Shin, and, in my opinion, is the main thread of love and compassion that pulls everyone together towards the healing that we see at the end
Sky (Saint) and Nani (Shin) are outstanding as estranged childhood friends-turned-enemies, with Saint determined to get back to being the inseparable duo that they used to be...he refuses to give up and for a substantial part of the show, its an endless game of wooing and refusal between Saint and Shin, with a lot of help from Shin's adorable little (step)sister Chingching, who shares a special bond with both, and also from Chadjen, and the two teachers, Jan and Sung....Saint is almost like an adorable puppy who follows his master around to be forgiven for his mistakes, knowing full well that his life is pointless without Shin...the intense stares, electric chemistry, hurt-eyes and unmistakable yearning between Saint and Shin tells of a love that is undoubtedly beyond just best friends..
But the script will keep the bromance mask on, all through.....I think this is done deliberately, with the intent of keeping us salivating and yearning for that what almost everyone who has watched this show will want - Saint and Shin confessing their love to each other...and YES, even if for a fleeting moment, it does happen....so yes, it is going to make you very happy at the end.
Should you watch it? YES, YES, and YES :D
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