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The Girls Definitely Rule
A very decent series that addresses a lot of issues, many of them that women face in their everyday lives, and sheds light on others that aren't getting mentioned by the media as often, which was something I appreciated a lot as a woman myself. The overall writing was pretty solid and the characters as well as the pairings were very distinct from each other and were developed nicely. A few parts maybe felt a bit rushed by the end, but no loose ends were left and it didn't bother me that much as a viewer, personally.Acting-wise it was very strong. Some really difficult and heartbreaking scenes were aced by the girls and even in the scenes that depended solely on the use of micro expressions, they were excellent, showcasing their abilities. I do have to mention Milk and Love separately, though, only because I felt this was the first time they were given a chance to fully utilise their skills and show their range. They surprised me in the most pleasant way and I absolutely loved them in the roles of Shasha and Gorya. They stood out the most to me as a duo and shone brighter than ever.
Overall, this series is worth giving a chance if you're looking for a bit more grounded approach in romance. It certainly has its fictional traits, but for the most part it's down to earth and doesn't shy away from showing flawed characters and the unhealthy aspects of human relationships.
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It could have, should have, but didn't..
For starters, we are not talking about a BL, but a drama, that bares some of the exaggerated soap opera characteristics and features queer elements for a major part of it. Of course, being a series of 2018, do expect a lot of outdated notions and false terminology* included --regarding someone's sexuality-- that affect the narrative to a certain degree. However, given that there are still people who think that way, you could say that this show, despite being old, it's representative of that part of society and can still work as a realistic aspect.The series as a whole, surely is entertaining. It has an interesting premise and the episodes will keep your attention, but after a point it felt a bit repetitive and draggy, it became kinda tiresome. The character development was neglected for the sake of more "glamorous" scenes. I would love if the initial focus, which was the big brother and his journey to reconnect with his family, remained and the story delved more into the emotional aspect, exploring the family bonds, instead of being brushed off and underdeveloped. It lost a lot of its substance after a point, for me, hence my mediocre score.
The acting I'd say was really good. It was probably the best part of these series and all the actors did justice to their roles.
Overall, I recommend this show, to anyone who doesn't mind watching unhealthy relationship dynamics. Mind you that there are a lot of toxic and abusive behaviours throughout its course, that could be triggering. The writing is a bit messed up, but it's still a fine drama with even some comedic elements to enjoy your time.
*keep in mind that what appears as false terminology, could also stem from cultural differences or linguistic concepts that can't be accurately translated into English, resulting to confusion.
P.S. You won't find this series with eng subs by the official "GMM25Thailand" channel. Search for the YouTube user " Roop Thong BL Universe" instead.
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A Happy Pill
A very sweet and innocent high school series with neither the story nor the characters standing out that much or having a significant impact to me as a viewer at least. The plot development is consisted of either fast problem resolutions or sub plots that don't really contribute to the story. The series could have certainly benefit from a lesser number of episodes or alternatively by exploring the characters more, outside of their relationship, so they could get fleshed out properly.As for the young actors, they did well. I found all the pairings well matched, but I'd say in terms of story and development, the main couple of Kit and Shane, was the strongest and most interesting to watch. The character of Shane was the best in terms of writing, for me, and I enjoyed Luke's acting style the most.
Having said all that, I do recommend the series to anyone who wants to take a break from heavy dramatic shows and relax. It's well made, with consistent writing and good direction, and the amount of cuteness and fun moments in this show is literally healing and heart warming.
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Flawed and Messy but it adds to the Fun
A very lovely romcom that blends comedy with drama really well, without becoming angsty or unbearable, but still keeping you interested on what is going to happen in the next episode. There is just something truly endearing about watching two completely incompatible characters getting paired up in a story and in such a humourous way. The concept feels unique and refreshing and it doesn't lack in any aspect when compared to the romcoms that come out nowadays. On the contrary, the story is solid and easy to watch. I'd say it has its fair share of nonsensical situations and plot development issues, but that doesn't actually discourage you from keep watching.As for the main actors, Singto and Tae --already being a fan of them-- I was eager to watch them paired up together in the series and I was pleasantly surprised by the result. They had a really fun dynamic and great energy with their chemistry and their acting being really strong.
Overall, I do recommend this series to romcom fans, who look for a light-hearted story. The 12 episodes will go by like water and will brighten up your mood.
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I Feel You Linger in the Air: Uncut Version
1 people found this review helpful
Almost but not Quite
Definitely an interesting premise with beautiful cinematography and good acting, but bland writing and execution. It attempted to give focus to many characters and escape the common BL standard, but with lukewarm results. The story that was building up for the majority of the episodes --even though interesting-- wasn't properly developed and got written off very quickly to give space to the romance, which wasn't properly developed either.The main characters didn't feel as main characters at all. The actors were good, but their characters were not strongly written, making me unable to get emotionally attached to them or their story. And that goes for the rest of the cast as well. The writting only scratched the surface for their roles with the only exceptions being a few side characters that actually managed to show depth, despite their very limited screen time, making you want for their stories to be explored more.
Another thing that fell short, for me, is that for a period drama, it didn't give you the illusion that it was set in a different period of time. It lacked the cultural references that would create a strong world built and the characters felt modern both in the way they spoke and the way they approached some matters, which seemed unrealistic for a past context.
Overall, it's a nice story to watch and a genre you won't easily find in bls, so I do recommend it to those who want to watch something different and also love slow burns.
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Rescued by YothaGun - Saved by FaifaWine
If you're looking for a refreshing uni story, this show isn't any different from the countless others that have been released over the years, minus the length and the big cast of so many loved actors, which was a nice surprise. What's really strange about it is that it doesn't feel like a series that belongs to 2025. It carries many outdated aspects from way older bls as well as recycling certain stereotypes. After so many years, I'd expect the writting to be more careful when it comes to some sensitive topics like consent (expressed or implied) and boundaries, that can send the wrong message when written poorly, especially since the target group is young audiences. The series failed on that part a few times.Stories:
ArcArm [Episodes 1-8]: The struggle was real. I grew tired after episode 2. There was literally no plot to stretch for 8 episodes. 4 episodes --maximum 5-- would be enough. I don't know what Force and Book did to deserve this backpedaling to their career. The only redeeming quality of this story, was a few funny moments and their good acting. They worked much better as side characters for the story in the later episodes. As for the side couple, it was just there. Their characters weren't distinctive at all. Very flat interactions, that didn't really offer anything to the story.
YothaGun [Episodes 9-16]: Prevented me from dropping the series. It basically follows the same logic in the way the romance is developed in the first story, but it's much more improved. The characters are more fleshed out and the plot is more solid, tackling some serious issues along the way, but it still has its ups and downs on the writing department. I didn't enjoy the romance that much and I wish this story focused a bit more on the important parts of the characters that shaped their personality. My favourite part was the acting. I knew Perth was good, but I watched Santa for the first time and he really impressed me. Aou and Boom were the side couple, and as always they were that good you wished you'd see a spin off of their characters.
FaifaWine[Episodes 17-24]: Actually the most interestingly written romance out of the three from the meeting to the development to the interactions between the characters. It's the healthiest and the most relatable story I'd say. Great acting from Junior specifically. The character of Faifa is by far the best written in the entire series and he nails it. It was a story worth waiting for and I enjoyed it the most.
Music:
I can safely say that it was the worst part of this series by far, hence my super low score. I know it's cheaper to use songs from the gmmtv records, but gosh I got a headache listening to same song at any form. Some scenes demanded the silence, because they were serious and others needed different type of songs to amplify the vibe of each scene. A lot of times it ruined the mood the actors set and it didn't fit. I really don't know whose idea it was to add to the classic staring contests non stop music after each sentence was spoken. The countless sound effects were just the cherry on top. At least, for the last part everything was reduced, which was a relief for me as a viewer.
Overall, if you just want to pass your time or relieve your stress sure it's a fun series to watch, but nothing to lose your mind over.
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Chaotic!!!
A very surreal series consisting of ridiculous situations, exaggerated characters and a unique sense of humour, that you'll either love or hate. For me, it had its charm and a very distinct identity. It felt refreshing watching such a different type of bl, even if the plot wasn't something you'd lose your mind over.I'd say the stronger part of the show is the acting. Shahkrit, who plays the boss, portrayed his role exceptionally, with his wealth of experience definitely elevating the comedy element. Earth and Mix shone through their performances as well, proving that they are just as capable in comedy as they are in drama. Ironically, their best and most genuine dramatic scene for me came from this series.
Overall, it's a good show and I do recommend it to anyone who just looks for a light - hearted series to pass the time. It does have heart and some very cute moments under all these layers of absurdity..
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Unexpectedly good
I really thought I wouldn't care for a boyband bl only to be pleasantly surprised by how solid and different this story was from what I've anticipated. The series mainly focuses on the challenges artists face in the music industry and realistically addresses the ugly side of the fame from every aspect. As for the romantic part, the show sets the standards high without following clichés and lines you usually see in bls, making the entire experience refreshing and unpredictable.William and Est as a new pairing, worked magnificently. Both their acting and their chemistry were spot on and they shined in their roles. But they weren't the only ones. The series makes sure to give attention to all the members of LYKN and make them equally important to the story, with them doing justice to their roles. Nut, specifically, really impressed me and I would like to see him act more in the future.
Aside from the story, the cinematography was also really beautiful and well executed, contributing to the creation of the series' unique identity.
Overall, I recommend this series to people who enjoy gradual character development and slow burn romance.
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A huge disappointment if I ever seen one..
The prime example of how to waste an elite cast on a series way beneath them. That was among my most anticipated series from part 1 of gmmtv 2024 lineup and ended up the biggest disappointment. The attempt to combine the five books of each Ploy failed miserably. The plot was all over the place. The story jumped from one thing to another without fleshing out characters or situations and many parts of the plotline lacked logic and common sense. The transitions from past to present weren't smooth either and sometimes were even unrelated to one another.My only exception was the story of Tawan (Joong) and Punk Ploy (Film). It was by far the best written part of the series that I really enjoyed to watch and I feel that these two actors were the only ones who actually shined because of that. Specifically, I found Joong magnificent in a role very different from those he usually plays. He showed so many emotions I really loved it.
Another good point of the series was the music. I would go as far as to say that it was its strongest point. The songs were all very emotional and enhanced the impact of every scene.
I would recommend the series only for the two points I mentioned and if you want to honour such an exceptional cast.
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I crave for more..
A refreshing premise that goes beyond the usual bl recipe and dares to experiment with other genres, by blending comedy with action and drama. Each episode --while lengthy-- is so enjoyable that you don't find yourself getting bored or tired.However, it suffered on the writing department. After a point the plot expanded so much it took so many directions that the focus got disturbed with some aspects of the series getting neglected; like the romance, the development of the side characters, even the main leads I feel didn't get the attention they deserved. Either the show should have had more episodes, so that all the plotlines could have gotten properly developed or the focus should have remained in a smaller scale of things and leave room for the characters to gradually grow both emotionally and mentally, because now it left me with the sense that I didn't get my closure. The show itself had set the bar so high in the first episodes, that I expected to see some things happen that I didn't get to after all..
Acting wise it was beautiful. It was my first time watching these actors and I loved their performances. Yin and War as a tv couple have that unique chemistry that gave me butterflies even when they only exchanged looks and that's something you rarely see.
Overall, the series is good and I really loved it! Definitely a fun journey for the viewer and I recommend it to anyone who isn't looking for a standard romance.
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A very feel good story
A very sweet and fun series to pleasantly spend your time. The plotline is not that deep, but the pace is good so it keeps you interested, without tiring you out with draggy and unnecessary scenes..I honestly gave it a shot to witness the birth of OffGun, but I enjoyed it to its entirety. All characters are interesting and both couples are giving chemistry. I don't consider it that much outdated, given the year it was released. For me, it's a series made with care and even feels fresh in comparison to the series we get nowadays of the same genre.
I definitely recommend it to anyone who loves good romance and fluff!
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A super progressive series
For starters it's not a bl, but has a lot of queer elements.We are talking about a very progressive series. It may start as a simple and fun story, but it really addresses a wide variety of issues, without being stilted about it. Nothing is thrown at your face to force you feel some type of way. Everything is incorporated into the plot, from the characters' point of view and has an impact on the story. Whether you agree or not about it, it's still in your discretion. The point is that some things you usually don't see in other shows here are getting presented, which is very interesting. All the characters are also super unique and very well written, representing all sorts of people out there and are very cleverly put into the story. Still, it's not a very emotionally heavy story. It will touch you in the feels many times, but it keeps its light heartedness in general.
The cast is great. All the actors are top notch and do justice to their roles.
Like in every other series of P'Jojo, the music choices are very cool.
Overall, it's a great series to give a chance to. It includes some controversial topics, but if you appreciate a well written and well paced story without looking for too much drama or too much comedy, this one balances it well I feel.
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A Messy Mess
As the predecessor of Only Friends, the two shows share a lot of similarities: love triangles, trash friendships, questionable decisions and a lot of toxicity in general, but in comparison this one lacks depth. I never really connected with the characters. I felt for the most part they were very superficially portrayed. They were all over the place, jumping from one story to another and never really lingered enough to understand them. This show either needed more episodes or less characters for me to work better.The most interesting part for me was the bl storyline and that's because the dynamics of those characters were richer in emotions, compare to everyone else. There was a little more care in that part of the show that kept you interested to see what will happen. With that being said, like in many shows of P'Jojo's, some serious issues were tackled here as well, that other shows usually don't bother to explore and I really appreciate that.
Most of the characters may have not won me over, but the actors were all great. I'll give a little more credit to Singto and Plustor, though.
I suggest this show to anyone who loves drama and messy storylines. It's perfect for you!
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High Expectations, Higher Reality
A fantastic thriller drama that masterfully blends its dark undertones with moments of comedy that don't feel irrelevant or forced, but rather uplift the atmosphere and are naturally incorporated into the story. The series is also well-produced and well-written, maintaining a steady pace without becoming boring or drawn out. Despite its genre, the show is filled with a lot of heart and depth, especially through the characters of Ozone and Day—played by Gun and Pond respectively.As for the acting itself, I don't have enough words to praise Gun Atthaphan for his brilliant performance in the series. He was exceptional, portraying a really difficult character and setting the bar too high once again with his acting skills. The rest of the cast also deserves recognition for their strong portrayals, contributing to the show's overall excellence.
I highly recommend this series to viewers who don't mind angst and tension. It does a great job enticing you till the last minute.
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Time well Invested
A brilliant series from the very well written story to the amazing cinematography to the exceptional acting. It perfectly combines mystery with romance and action all very cleverly put, evoking all kinds of emotions. It keeps you interested from the start till the end, making you speculate and theorise over the possibilities. The plot is so strong you really need to pay attention to all the details. It's also the reason the rewatch value in my rating is so high. I feel the second time it's gonna look like a new show.I recommend this series only to those who enjoy a complex story with dark undertones.
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