my top 10 GLs of all time
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1. Reverse 4 You
Thai Drama - 2024, 8 episodes
Do people just hate good art or something? Like, why does Reverse 4 You only have a 7.7 rating? Put some respect on its name because this show is so underrated. Honestly, it’s the best GL of 2024 in my opinion, even though we got robbed with only 8 episodes.
The balance of romance, comedy, and angst? Absolute perfection. And I mean perfect. Four is a masterclass on how to write a "mean" character. She starts off as an asshole, sure, but the way her character grows and deepens makes you fall in love with her. Then there’s Wa, she’s such a fun and likable character that you can’t help but root for her.
The writing is so good and does not get the love it deserves. Their banter? Pure gold. I was kicking my feet and giggling like crazy. I haven’t read the book, so I don’t know how faithful the adaptation is, but the delivery of the lines? Top-notch.
And let’s talk about that confession scene. The build-up was chef’s kiss, and the scene itself? Best one in GL history, hands down. So cute, so romantic. Writers and directors everywhere need to take notes because this is how you do it.
Even with only 8 episodes, the pacing was just right. Every episode felt complete and left you excited for the next one. Unlike other shows, it didn’t leave you feeling like something was missing.
I love everything about this show and will defend it forever. Absolute masterpiece.
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2. Couple of Mirrors
Chinese Drama - 2021, 12 episodes
It might not be explicitly GL, but who cares, censorship can suck it.
The storyline, drama, acting, pacing, and tropes all delivered. This show is solid proof that you don’t need NC scenes to make a great GL. If you’re into the sunshine x sunshine protector trope, this is 100% a must-watch.
I’ll admit I’m biased because I love protective FL tropes, but honestly, that doesn’t change the fact that this show sets the bar for what I want in every single GL I watch.
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3. Pluto
Thai Drama - 2024, 12 episodes
Let me start with the writing. Despite concerns about the problematic novel it's based on, the writers did a fantastic job addressing the book's flaws. The changes, pacing, and story flow cemented this show in my heart as one of, if not the best, GLs I've seen.
Now, the acting. Namtan excelled in differentiating Oom from Ai. It genuinely felt like two different actresses were portraying the roles. Film, meanwhile, was a natural, embodying her character as a blind woman so convincingly it was almost unsettling. Her ability to capture attention and evoke emotion was remarkable. Together, Namtan and Film form the most balanced GL tandem I’ve seen, matching each other's skill and making every scene impactful.
What I loved most was the complexity. The characters are deeply flawed, morally grey, and realistic, but the writers brought out their humanity in ways that made them resonate with the audience. The heavy themes were handled well, striking a balance that made the show engaging and memorable. The Jan, Pang, and Pim love triangle, while not deeply explored, showcased the boldness and complexity Snap25 brought to Pluto.
The redemptions throughout the show make it surprisingly rewatchable, despite its heavy themes (Though Episode 11’s angst was a lot for my emotional self so maybe except it). I rarely rewatch shows, but Pluto joins my list alongside Reverse 4 You.
No doubt, this will remain GMMTV’s best GL for quite some time.
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4. Apple My Love
Thai Drama - 2024, 6 episodes
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5. She Makes My Heart Flutter
Korean Drama - 2022, 5 episodes
The only downside to this mini-series? It’s just a mini-series.
The romcom vibes were on point, with comedy bits that were genuinely funny and super entertaining. The acting was amazing, and the pacing worked really well despite the short episode count.
The slow-burn longing between the store owner and the interior designer (I think that’s what you call her in the show?) was so good (all thanks to great acting by the leads). The little bit of angst from the misunderstanding, where the store owner thought she was engaged or married was exquisite. The way the store owner held back because of it? Had me absolutely losing my mind. The tension was off the charts.
This mini-series gave me all the feels, and I’m just over here wishing for more episodes or even a season 2.




