ANOTHER REBOOT

Everyone seems to be on the same page here about this series.

Another d*mn reboot. Why the Thai BL industry thinks this is cool is beyond me. Nearly every BL uses all the same tropes, enemies to lovers, high school crushes to college lovers, naive innocent nerd and popular elder classmate, Campus Moons, etc. So if you're going to make a series with all these tropes (especially if you're doing it with an entirely new cast), why not just create a new story - rather than force us to watch the same characters in the same scenes, with the same outcomes. If I wanted to see Pha and Wayo in EXACTLY the same story, I'd just go back and re-watch S1 (ps: I don't). I asked this in the comments section, but I'll ask it again here -- does the Thai TV industry do this with hetero series? Or do they feel that only the BL audience is pathetic enough to feed the same sh*t twice and call it S2? So frustrating.

That said, I found S2 much better than S1. I hated S1. The only thing I liked were all the side characters, but virtually everything else about it was horrible. Here, they suffer from the same casting issues... the two main characters are the least interesting and least charismatic of the actors and the side characters and actors are all much better and more interesting to watch. But thankfully, it's not as cloying and melodramatic. The pacing is much better and the direction is serviceable, although not memorable, but at times the cinematography felt phoned in.

The story is the same as S1. Yes, they truncate a lot of the action into fewer episodes, so they can focus more on the 2nd and 3rd couples, but even some of that is just a retread of S1. Is it compelling, interesting, fresh? No. It's all the same we've seen in every other BL as well. By shortening the MC's story, they actually removed some of the drama and conflict that occurred between the two. Both side couples have the same story. One aggressive pursuer, the other initially reluctant. There aren't any real conflicts between the two side couples. They introduce some drama and conflict late in the series when Pring and Park stir up trouble, but it's over and easily resolved. All that to say, don't come for the story.

There are plenty of questionable story choices. Wayo asking Park to the movies is so far out of character it makes no sense. Kit's got conservative Chinese parents, but he brings Ming home with him. Kit's brother's about-face in one evening. Beam's sudden attraction to Kit. But everything flies by in a flash and there is so little real weight given to any moment that none of it was horrible.

However, I wish the producers looked a bit harder at some of the messages they send. Pha is possessive with clear anger issues. I'm not a fan of people saying things like "you belong to me" and telling their boyfriends they can't do things without approval. People are not objects to be owned, and they have outside relationships that should be allowed to continue. Get jealous if you need to, but allow your BF to have his own life. Were these novels written in the 50s? Ming is too aggressive. Kit tells him countless times to back off, but he doesn't. Yes, that's their story - but what kind of a message does it send? Stalk people and eventually you'll wear them down? Forth is not quite as bad/aggressive, pursuing Beam, but maybe they could have tried to tell two different types of love stories, instead of just the same story with different characters.

The one thing I did enjoy this time around was the Angel Gang. There are some moments where they are treated as comic relief, but for the most part they are accepted by everyone (of course, everyone in this entire series is gay, so maybe that's why). They act as good friends, protectors and even help resolve some of the conflict. While they are stereotypes with no real dimension, they are not played with just the right amount of "over-the-top" qualities. I actually wanted to know them all more (c'mon... who wouldn't watch the twins in a ship with Ming?)

It's the incredibly handsome cast you should come and see. Again, the MC are the least appealling, but Ming, Kit and Forth are all worth watching. Wayo is horrible. He doesn't fit this character at all. There was nothing natural about his performance. Pha has some minor appeal. He's not an actor I would cast in a lead soon, but I think he can grow into a decent actor (He reminds me a lot of the actor Marc who plays Itt in MGAYG.). Ming is just adorable. Quite charming and obviously can do a lot more. And he's got a bit of a belly (at least from what I can tell). I love a funny boy with an average bod! Kit is my ideal. I would so fall for this guy IRL. I know some did not care for his acting, but I found it believable. He has a tough job playing the "i'm pretending to be angry while I'm secretly melting inside" and I thought he toed that line quite well. Even Beam is good, with the little he's got. Yes, his sudden attraction to Kit comes from out of nowhere, but you can't blame the actor for bad writing. Both Beam and Kit are so cute when they are being flirted with and trying to hide their excitement. Those sweet moments were everything. But Forth is the stand-out. This guy is destined to be a BIG STAR.

Here's another question... are any of these actors 100% Thai? Many of them didn't even look Asian. I know this is a big issue with Thai and all Asian entertainment... the light skinned, mixed race-looking actors are promoted above the more indigenous looking actors. But honestly, this cast could have been from Europe.

I enjoyed the intimacy. I admit, I do watch these series with the hopes of seeing boys kissing (even just a little peck is fine). Yes, I want great characters and a good story, but a little steam never hurts. Pha and Yo at least seem like a real couple. There is some decent chemistry between the two. And while Yo is that odd character who remains freaked out about intimacy long after they are a couple (even though he's been lusting after Pha for YEARS... like he hasn't imagined them kissing or having sex before!) I felt they handled the first sex scene well and even appreciated cutting away before any clothes were removed. I could loop the moment where Yo comes out of the shower in a towel to find Pha and Forth staring at him. I was thankful they actually acknowledged that boys have sex with Forth and Beam, and that sometimes you have sex for the wrong reasons, and that sometimes you have sex on the first night and that sometimes that can lead to actual feelings. That's real. It was laughable when Beam climbed into the hospital bed with Forth, but I forgave that moment, since it was so late in the series and I knew they had to ship these two before the lights faded out.

All in all, a piece o light, retreaded cliche fluff that I still enjoyed. I won't watch it again. It's just not compelling enough. But nothing angered me here. It feels more like great background tv while I'm doing chores than something that requires all my attention. I hope there is no S3.

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WASTED

Like almost everyone here, this was pretty disappointing to me. LBC was one of my favorite BL ever (and 90% of the reason was Perth and his amazing acting, coupled with his "best boyfriend ever" character). However, in Season 1, my least favorite characters were TinCan (i know I'm in the minority here, but Tin's acting was wooden and Can bordered on someone on the spectrum, no offense to those who are). So to have an entire season focus on them was a stretch for me from the beginning.

But then to just repeat all the same scenes, sometimes LESS effectively was an entire waste of time. It's season TWO. The story progresses. Or don't call it Season 2. Call it Tin/Can: A New Beginning or something. And to play with the timeline and canon of the first season is just lazy, sloppy and amateur writing.

Overall, I felt like I was just re-watching Season 1 but with all of the good parts removed.

Another unpopular opinion of mine... I actually think both Tin & Can were better this season. What I liked LEAST about Tin was his stiff, wooden, pouty portrayal. He just could't pull off the tough guy. Even in Season 1, when he softened and showed his love for Can he got much better. So to have his character somewhat softer here actually worked for me. Then the second half of the season had him focusing on his brother and the horrible "I'm mad all the time" face came out again and I was done with Tin. Plan is the only actor who could play Can in my mind. And I think this role suits him perfectly. With any other actor he would have been too whiny, too childish, too foolish. Somehow, Plan makes him adorable, loveable, sweet, tender. But I don't think he has the acting chops to do much else. I've seen him in other roles and he's either doing a version of Can or just playing himself. (And in all the BTS footage he looks like he's miserable the entire time). He is obviously so uncomfortable in the kissing scenes that he should have asked to limit them to just one, or never accepted a role in a BL series.

This was an infuriating slap in the face to fans. The creators obviously think we're stupid and don't care about things like logic, physics, pre-established characters/roles/relationships/resolutions. Shame on them!

Worst of all, Perth is wasted. I feel bad for him personally. It looks like the break with Saint was quite devastating. Professionally, having to play such a limited character when we've seen him and the character do so much more. Thankfully, as an actor he can cry on cue and that was all he was asked to do here. I hope for so much better for him in the future.

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A bunch of cuties and little else

As with the sequel I like the premise that a simple game can create such dramatic changes in the lives of these 6 boys. All the boys are super cute and each charming in their own way. The chaos that ensues COULD have been dramatic and heart wrenching but due to the limited episodes it’s reduced to mere highlights that are (kinda) resolved quickly and easily.

I was sad that the heart of this series is to break up a seemingly happy couple. Obviously not that happy since New was secretly in love with Pond, but still they didn’t really exhibit any problems. But that’s a minor issue and one that is my own only.

Mark does such a nice job that his heartbreak felt realistic. But since I didn’t get to know the characters very well, I wasn’t as invested in their journeys. I wanted them all to find love but only because I’m a romantic, not because the series made them fully fleshed characters. I didn’t really feel any emotion from New or Pond.

The cross-dressing sequence was bizarre and a bit kinky but sweet and cute nonetheless.

Nothing truly memorable about this series but I would watch again since it’s short and the cast does a fine job.

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INTRIGUING MESS

I am very torn by this series. I applaud a lot of what they TRIED to do, but have to bash them for how it was all executed.

As with the first season, I love this premise, that a simple game can create so much havoc and lead to revelations for a group of characters. And, as in the first season, they really let that play out over the course of the series. That's interesting, unusual (even though they play a version of this game in almost every BL ever) - but unusual to wrap an entire series around this game, and a fascinating experiment to see how far it can go and how much chaos it can create.

But there are so many inconsistencies here. The writing is a real amateur job. Characters say things like, I don't drink... and then drink. Underage characters are not allowed to drink... unless you're the main character... who says he doesn't drink but does... Homophobes suddenly start kissing boys. Brothers argue because... I'm not sure. But then work together, but then get fired, but then... Sib "owns" a cafe, but never really works there. Tar manages the cafe, but somehow solely makes the decision to close the cafe. In ep 10 they tell us Pan is part owner of the cafe??? The cafe closes, but 3 years later it's open again. Hello... writers... did you read your last draft? How about you try to track the events a bit better.

Oh, I loved the idea that the cafe had to close down because their teenage barista quit. Must have been a REAL stable business. And Sib has been in a relationship with Pan for YEARS, but when he sleeps with Pun he says it's his first time. Really? She should have figured out he was gay years ago. Who comes up with this stuff? Fire them!

Also, I know that companies pay to be advertised in the show and I'm fine with product placement, but I do not need to see 10 scenes of coffee making that do absolutely nothing to further the plot or character development. We get it. The cafe is a sponsor. Isn't showing their logo 4 times in every episode enough?

After that, maybe you can track the characters emotional journeys... so we understand who is feeling what for whom and when. I was so confused. Why is Sib with Pan? Because he doesn't want to quarrel? There's a surefire way to avoid arguments, leave her alone. You're not interested in her anyway. But then he kisses Pun, flirts with Pun, SLEEPS with Pun and still he's with Pan. Then his best friend confesses (a second time!) that he loves him... but he's okay just being friends? Em starts of homophobic then makes a quick U-turn and becomes obsessed with Pun. Pun likes Sib, but then seems to like Em, but still likes Sib, but can't be around them, but then returns... I couldn't follow it at all. This could have been done so much better. These complex relationships and emotions are perfect for a good drama, but they need to be handled (written!) with some artistry.

There is very little real character development. Sib does get a decent arc - although we are left frustrated by how wishy washy he is for most of the show. Em too has a bit of growth, but you just don't understand his motivation. Pun is the same from start to finish. He's the lead character! He needs to grow and learn. Screenwriting 101. Ugh!

Acting-wise, I'm probably the only person who didn't think Sib was horrible. True, he's not the best actor. But I found him charming and charismatic, especially in the montages where he and Pun grow closer (but of course there's not a lot of acting in a montage). His most notable fail was in the last episode when he and Em are consoling each other over losing Pun. Em is crying rivers. Tears are literally streaming down his face, wetting his shirt and Sib looks... constipated.
Pun was such a cutie, but there was very little going on behind those chubby cheeks. He seemed to force so many of his emotions. I also don't know how many times they had to show him shrug his shoulders in a "I don't know what's happening" fashion. Every time he had to kiss Sib it was as if he was being tortured. He looked so pained and uncomfortable. Even in the director's cut, we get to see a very long pre-sex scene (why it had to be so long when it goes nowhere is beyond me)... and it just made it worse because Pun looked so awkward. He didn't seem to mind kissing Em as much. Maybe that actor had better breath? Em was good. He cried a lot for such a tough guy. The rest were all just place fillers.

I'm not sure if Tar's friends were supposed to get their own story or not. They sure seemed to like making out with each other in the King game and in the flashback they are seen cuddling together in bed. Would have liked to seen their ship sail.

All in all, a sub-par series. Not horrible, but not really worth this much time. Wish this was as short as the first season, then maybe I would re-watch it. But don't think it's worth the effort. Only watch if you've watched everything else... like me. Haha.

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Wasted potential

I found this part of the trilogy frustrating. So much wasted time on text messages most of which just tear down Nuea. If this is what passes for friends remind me never to go to Thailand again. Everyone is horrible. Even if it’s joking it’s mean spirited and none of them support their friend. The texts and many conversations go round and round, repeating the same thoughts endlessly. We get it. You only have 3 eps to tell the story. Why are you wasting so much time on things that don’t matter.

There is a creepy element throughout. Nuea keeps pursuing an underage boy, even though the boy tells him repeatedly to stop. Of course, this being BL the boy actually likes the attention but no means no. Writer: please pay attention to what you have your characters say and realize the implications.

Other aspects made no sense. Nuea offers to tutor the boys, then doesn’t. High school boys and college kids all study together.... at the same university. What?

Of the 3 installments this sits firmly in the middle for me. Nowhere near as bad as Tossara. I even got one moment of horrifying flashback when Gun reminds Bar that he has gotten into his heart and Bar looks at him like, “Bitch please. You ain’t got nothing”. Those two have zero chemistry.

I know this is a sample of what might come, but I have no interest inn12 eps of this.

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STRAIGHTFORWARD BUT ENJOYABLE

Not much to say about this one. This is a fairly standard story, although it does have some slight differences. I liked the boys sleeping together on the first night and then having to navigate from there. But the familiar, I've got a girlfriend, I'm gonna cheat on my girlfriend, yet be pissed when she cheats on me, then turn into a needy, possessive "husband" is a bit too cliche for me. Still, I enjoyed the journey of these two characters. You can see that they had to shorten a whole season into 4 episodes, so you only get the highlights of this relationship and I think that's a good thing. If I had to watch 13 episodes of him getting back with Ploy, breaking up, sleeping with Mark, getting back with Ploy... it would have been too frustrating. So this was just the right amount of cliche for 4 eps! Haha.

I liked the two main characters and actors. There was an ease and naturalness to their portrayals. Mark had such expressive eyes. All those sidelong glances and I could tell just what he was thinking. If I had to say any actor played the gay vibe the best, it would be him. He reminded me of so many guys I know. But he spends so much time pouting. I wish they could have brought more levels to his character. All the supporting roles do a fine job as well.

I did enjoy that this was a real relationship. There was actual sex - at least talked about. I liked how all the friends knew what was going on and teased each other about it. It felt very contemporary in that regard.

All in all, a decent journey, expecially since it doesn't require much time or investment. It's a sweet story that should leave you satisfied.

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TENDER LITTLE SHORT FILM

With only 35 minutes, you cannot expect too much from this film, but it delivers everything at a high level and leaves you satisfied, if a little heartsick.

Issues of Christian attitudes towards homosexuality, societal expectations and most prominently, coming to terms with your sexuality are all included, but with the short run time, none get too much attention. I do wish there was a bit more time to explore all of these themes in greater depth.

The romance develops naturally, though there are really no conflicts until they are outed as a couple in school. Even that feels a little unsatisfactory, since Hei is openly gay and the boys have been hanging out exclusively for a while. Surely everyone knows.

There is good chemistry between the two leads, and Zeno is adorable. His innocent, yet open and endearing smile really draws you in. You feel like you know this character from his easy portrayal.

The end is a bit rushed and I'm not certain how much time has passed. Did they never speak again until the last day? It would have been nice to see how Hei dealt with the separation, and not just the little we see of Ming. You leave hoping that they will reunite and fulfill the promise of this sweet, first love relationship, but that's up to the viewer to fill in the blanks. Ahhh a boy can dream, can't he?

I'd watch it again, since it's a short sweet film. But would probably look for something a bit happier first.

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UNUSUAL AND THANKFULLY SHORT

I enjoyed this, though I have no idea why. Interesting story at first. I'm not a big fan of older man/teenage boy relationships. That sends a creepy message. Even though Ritsu truly cares for Sho, he is his tutor and surrogate caretaker. But I guess for where this story ends up, that's the least of your worries. Once you get over that, figuring out what's troubling Sho takes longer than it should. It's a simple misunderstanding that gets cleared up with one conversation (and the flash of a chest). All the sales calls were unnecessary. Not sure what they added.

The movie lulls you into thinking it's a fairly straightforward BL story. But little by little you learn more about the relationships and then it's got a few surprises. But it's just slightly bizarre, slightly kinky, slightly taboo. So you never really know what to expect and that's what makes the choices so unsettling.

As most people have said, there's no real character development, so you're not as invested as you might be. This could have been a tear-jerker, but without fleshed out characters you wind up just going through the motions until you get to the end. The actor and director do a nice job handling the Ryou character and story, however.

I guess I applaud the film for making unusual choices. They convert familiar BL tropes into their own here so I enjoyed the novelty of it. But this could have been so much better with just a little character work. I won't watch again, but it's a quick and painless viewing if you're looking for something off-beat.

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WHAT THE ??? AND HOW DID I STILL ENJOY MYSELF?

Like everyone has said, this is a train wreck. And yet, I still enjoyed watching it. Well, I enjoyed PARTS of it. If I ever were to watch again (I won't), I'd definitely fast forward through everything but the MCs together and the family scenes.

I had a LOT of trouble getting through the first few episodes. The acting was so wooden and clunky, the direction uninspired, and the script almost non-existent with scenes that were entirely unnecessary, and felt as if they were from an different series altogether (that doggie party lasted waaaaaaaaay too long). It improves (slightly) over time, but through to the end I don't think the writer/director/producer knew what they wanted to make. Comedy, romance, LGBTQ+ issue oriented??? They either forgot, or changed direction or just never paid attention and crammed everything in they could possibly think of.

I'm not a big fan of "camp". It has to be very well done and the comedy has to be very high for me to enjoy it. Unfortunately, this does not meet that criteria. So, for me, the camp elements were unsuccessful and detracted from what could have been a typical queer rom-com. There are a LOT of trans and cross-dressing characters. A LOT. Some are handled well. Some are regretfully used as the butt of jokes. Another example of more is less, where less would have been more.

The story has its moments. Like many BL series, things happen quickly, with little explanation. People change from arrogant, selfish a**holes to sweet, tender caring BF's or from delusional sociopath to penitent friend in one scene. Ace's transformation from horrible boss comes from out of nowhere. They try to explain it in the next episode, but it's too little too late. The Moira/dog-napping etc is just ridiculous. But it does fit with the zany ride they've taken us on. If you can put aside all logic you can get past most of what they attempt here. I'm not saying it's good, but you just have to go along for the ride.

But then we suddenly get an issue-oriented "gay is okay", "love has no gender", "I'm coming out to the world" ending that felt like it was from a third (or forth) series. To end on "I'm a proud gay" was baffling to me. The series did not seem to be leading there at all, so the last few episodes were very jarring. Why is Sky's gay-ness even an issue? His brother cross-dresses in every scene, but Sky is afraid his parents won't accept him being gay???

Was there a script? Many times, even up to the final episodes, it felt like the actors were improvising. They repeat the same lines of dialogue multiple times in the same scene. Was there ANY rehearsal? Actors continually interrupt each other, flub their lines, stand around awkwardly as if they don't know what they're staging should be. Was there a director? Often I felt like they just turned the cameras on and said go. Unidentified Background people are in intimate scenes that should be focusing on the MC.

Miko is okay. I personally think he has a lot of charisma. I forgave his amateur acting because he was just so darn likeable. Aki is very handsome (maybe too handsome? is that possible? but MAN is he an ugly-crier) and there are moments when he surprised me with a good performance, but overall both actors felt like they were in over their heads. I think they'll both improve with time (they did improve over the course of the series). But Sky's MOM. Wow. She was amazing. At times I forgot I was watching a series and felt like I was eavesdropping on a real mom having a tender moment with her real son. Incredible. For the most part, brother Ken is too shallow to really display any real acting chops, but in the one scene where he comforts his heart-broken brother he showed promise. Moira did a fine job. Jelai, Miss Becky, Ace's parents were all just ok.

Kissing and skin. Yup, everyone has mentioned it. I'm a fan, so I was happy to see as much as we did. But even moreso, I was happy to see a MM couple holding hands or just caressing each other affectionately. I did feel like they embraced real gay intimacy more than most. Thanks for that.

Like I said, I won't watch again. Not sure I can stomach S2. I'll probably wait a while and when I need a fix I'll check it out. But I'll go in expecting very little and hopefully will be satisfied.

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FLUFF BUT STILL ADORABLE

Not much happens here that didn't happen in the first season. At times it feels like they just shortened that season and made a few minor adjustments so it appeared new - but wasn't. Still, it's entirely enjoyable. One of the best produced and acted series out there. I wish the script was better (It's not BAD, just not original). But honestly, guys, another soccer match where a player gets injured and a cheerleader collapses? If this was 10 years later you might say it's an homage to the original. Here it's just lazy. Even the (thankfully very short) storyline where Tine is "learning" guitar is taken from the original.

When the biggest conflict you can come up with is a couple being physically apart for 2 weeks (not because of an argument, but just for logistical reasons),then you're really not trying very hard. Yet somehow, Bright and Win make you feel this separation is somehow heartbreaking. Their relationship is so sweet, so tender, so thoughtful. They are the boyfriends everyone would hope for.

I know that music is a huge part of this storyline, but there were a few too many songs in these five episodes for me. Another easy way for the writers to have characters express emotions without having to actually come up with a story and dialogue that would require them to do so. Let's just have them recite someone else's lyrics.

This cast, most notably the MC are so good. Bright and Win have such incredible chemistry. I would watch them together in anything. They seem so comfortable, natural, and real. No emotion is forced. While I personally have issues with some of the familiar BL tropes (a couple that have lived together for a year and yet only ONCE said they "like" each other???, very little hand holding, even less kissing), there is such warmth and affection between these two actors and their characters that each scene is so heartfelt you get all the emotions needed for a fulfilling and satisfying romance. All of the side couples and friends are equally strong. It's a testament to the director that he can coax good performances out of actors I normally think are not that strong. Kudos to all.

I must, however, call out another trope that always annoys me. Flashbacks to previous scenes. This mini-series if chock full of them. Many of them are from S1, so I ALMOST forgive them. It may have been a while since we watched those eps, so a quick reminder is ok. But they also include flashbacks to episodes from within S2, and on at least 2 occasions the flashbacks are from the previous scene. We just watched it 2 minutes ago. We don't need to be reminded of what happened. Especially with these actors who can convey the emotions so well. Just a look from Tine tells me he's thinking about Wat. I don't need the flashback to hammer it home. Do you really think your audience is that dim?

All in all, nothing so compelling that you should put this on top of your list, but if you've watched S1, these 5 quick episodes are a light distraction that you can get through relatively quickly. I don't know if I'll watch all 5 eps again, but if I ever need a quick fix, there are moments in each of the eps that really warm my heart, so when I feel the need for a best-boyfriend-ever moment, I can call up any ep and be totally satisfied. Enjoy.

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JUST A COMMERCIAL

This is an ad for a dermatologist's office, masquerading as a mini-series. The main conflicts are rashes, allergies and psoriasis.

DON'T BOTHER

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CLOSE TO PERFECT

I have been transported to another place, another life and I loved (almost) every minute of it. This almost felt like a documentary to me. I felt like I was spying on these two boys and their actual lives. It was so real, no natural. Excquisite.

First, I have to talk about the setting for this series. This small, impoverished neighborhood was such a fresh setting for me (I'm a Westerner, although I have spent plenty of time all over Asia). I loved the glimpse into the everyday lives of these simple people. I longed to go to Auntie's shop and have her make me breakfast, bicycle to the river to fish and even wash out my only pair of underwear to hang on the line. There was such dignity and love in all these details. Incredible art direction, cinematography and direction. Top notch.

The set-up was contrived (step-brothers don't know they are step-brothers), but it was set up well, so you could buy into easily. And when the reveal happened later, it felt like a natural progression and evolution, so you can forgive the conveniences.

The characters are complex. They struggle with their emotions in real time. Not much is forced here (with a few exceptions). I never felt like we fast-forwarded through important moments just to get the boys together sooner. I actually loved the playful teasing and pranking they each performed at the start. It felt fairly realistic and when Bai Luo. Yin sews Gu Hai's sleeves together I laughed a lot. Gotcha! The evolution of their friendship felt natural. Little moments meant so much. Secretly following your crush to school and home again. Sigh.

The actors are incredible. Again, so real, so raw, so natural. Rarely one false moment. At first, I didn't even think Timmy was that handsome. But as time went on and I grew to love both of these characters, he suddenly turned into one of the most handsome men I had ever seen. I fell in love with them both and wanted them to fall in love with each other so desperately. And can we talk about the Dad? First off, Dads are not my type. But I have a crush on Wang Dong. What a sweet, kind character as well. Despite his shortcomings, his love for his son is palpable and his desire to improve their lives admirable. He was so endearing. Great job.

There were a couple of odd/uncomfortable plot points. I felt the "let's masturbate together, everybody does it" moment was rushed. You might want to ease into that, especially when your bro is NOT into it. Worse, the kidnapping and attempted rape seemed to come from out of nowhere. It did not fit Gu Hai's character, to me. Yes he has a temper. But this was borderline sociopathic. I get that he's obsessed but how would you ever expect anyone to accept that. I was surprised it didn't have more of a negative impact on their relationship. That felt like a mis-step to me.

When they finally move in together it was everything I could ever hope for. Naturally, problems arise, but I loved seeing them move into a more comfortable, physical relationship. Unfortunately, I watched this on YT, so I think the sexy scenes were cut, but I didn't really need them. They made it quite clear what was going on under those bedsheets.

I'm sorry it ended so abruptly. I'm sorry we won't see a Season 2. I'm sorry these two have been banned from appearing together as well. They have great chemistry.

But I will watch this again and again. You should too.

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ONLY FINISHED CUZ ITS SO SHORT

One of the worst series I've ever seen, BL or otherwise.

Gun's character is horrible. As others have stated, he does not understand personal boundaries, is far too clingy and possessive, rude to people for no reason, never listens to his love interest or takes his feelings into account and comes off as potentially the worst BF in history. Ugh. Even if he was truly goodlooking, which everyone claims but... NO, this behavior would not be acceptable. And it's certainly no way to win over someone who claims to be straight.

The script is just the worst. In one scene, the characters repeat themselves 10 times. "I like you." Well, I like you", :That's good cuz I like you." "Well you better cuz I like you". WHAT? From Episode 1 Gun is clear in his intentions and feelings and it does not change throughout. There is ZERO tension, zero growth.

There is no motivation for Bar to suddenly flip teams and give into Gun. It's not like he's been treating him well. And it happens in an instant. If all it takes to win this guy's affections and turn him from women to men is attention, then you've got a shallow character. Put some effort into it, guys.

The acting is wooden, stiff, amateurish at best. Gun has zero appeal. Bar is cute and has one nice moment where he almost tears up, talking about how scared he is - but other than that they don't ask him to dig deep enough into this conflicted character. I think he may have more potential if he had a better script and director. Short is my favorite body type, so I was all in! Chemistry? Not from Gun. I believed that Folk/Bar was enamored when he looked at Gun. But together they did not make any sparks fly.

I did like the friends. And all were better actors than the leads.

Okay, so for some reason you hire this guy to play Gun - and he's a bit flabby with sagging pecs and little tummy. Don't have people talk about how muscular he is. Just cut those lines. What do they add anyway? I'm not saying the actor is bad looking. He's just not what they say he is. People fall in love with average looking dudes every day, so since you cast this guy just let him be an average looking guy. You don't even have to write ANY dialogue about his looks. Maybe try to create a personality for him. That's what people REALLY fall in love with.

Episode 4 has no purpose at all. And there's this great exchange, "I will tell them at the assembly tomorrow. Can you come?" "Stop teasing me. When I'm brave enough I will kiss him in front of you." I'm sure there's a translation problem otherwise I will have to assume brain hemmorage. And then it just ends. Thankfully.

DO NOT BOTHER.

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NO MEANS NO

This one has its merits but its portrayal of sexual assault and the nature of this obsession are too negative to give this an overall strong rating. I guess that means they did their job. They did depict Obsession, but this is not the type of relationship that we need to see or emulate.

I was intrigued by the initial premise. Being reincarnated and trying to change the path of your relationship was full of promise. At first, you come to believe that Shao Yi Chen is still obsessed with Jiang Jin Teng and hence the title, but then Jin Teng's obsessions rears its very ugly head. This character is appalling from the very beginning. He orders his friends around like they are slaves. This is a common trope for the "bullies" in BL and something I have never seen in real life. I'm fairly tired of this trope. His behavior escalates quickly and he soon becomes an actual sociopath. I can't believe anyone would fall in love with someone like this. Much less a sweet character like Yi Chen. His behavior gets worse with multiple attempted rapes and threatening to strangle his ex-girlfriend. Okay, in the end, they try to redeem him, but the fact that he was trying to save Yi Chen from "bullying" does not excuse his behavior. I never wanted this couple to get together - and isn't that the point of a BL? I actually wanted Yi Chen to get together with his best friend. That would have been a sweet couple.

The acting was fairly good. I think Teddy does a very fine job as Shao Yi Chen. I am less enamored with Bernard as Jiang Jin Teng. He felt very one-note. Even his outbursts seemed the same level as his normal behavior. I could hardly read emotion in his face, aside from the few times they allow him to be tender or giddy.

The direction was serviceable. Some moments seemed to be held too long, for example forcing the actors to breathe heavily in panic for extended periods without any real reasoning - and that's where the acting suffered the most as well. Elongating a moment does not heighten the emotion.

I won't watch this again due to the inappropriate behavior. But I do still feel the HIStory series should be applauded for the breadth of its stories and the high production values of all of the installments.

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NOTHING BUT FILLER

I would say 95% of reviews and comments all say the same thing, so no big revelations here. Good potential wasted. Not a big fan of this one.

It started strong. I liked the fact that the main couple had a pre-existing relationship. It was a different story than we're used to. Loved the friendships (often my fav part of any BL). Initially thought the actors were decent, though that changed as I continued to watch and their newbie status revealed itself.

At first, I liked the non-linear story-telling. That can be effective when done well. (key phrase, when done well). But quickly the time cuts became confusing. It would take me a minute to figure out if it was the past or the present. Then all the filler started. I'm not a big fan of this in any series and Thai BL is heavy with this trope. If you have effectively told your story, and your actors are capable, you do not need to remind me of a previous scene to help me understand a characters emotions. You definitely do not need to remind me of the very last scene I just watched. It's clear in my mind. (Side note: I wonder if directors use this device because they don't think the actors can carry the emotional weight of a scene, so they feel the need to cut away from bad acting? Just a thought). There was even one instance with the Pangs where Makisig is on the phone, leaning against the wall while another man putters around behind him (another lover? never explained), they cut to Nin, and when they cut back, Makisig is in a black shirt sitting on a couch. Is this another phone call? A different time? A continuity error?

Now, some here are saying all the filler is the theme of the series. It's those In Between moments that are most important in a relationship. Okay. But do I need to see the entire scene? Multiple times? And again I would argue that if you have done your job well, I understand the importance of those in between moments the first time I see them. I don't need multiple reviews of those moments.

The worst instance for me was in the finale. This is arguably the most important moment in the series, Tau & Tep are revealing their innermost feelings, but rather than stay in the moment and let us experience it, they cut away between every 3 or 4 words (not even complete sentences) to show us the same filler moments for the 1000th time. I watched the whole series. I know how their relationship has evolved. I want to watch them get fake married, not see them riding a bike. ARGH!

I have 3 other issues. Perhaps I missed it (but I will never go back and rewatch this series to find out, so maybe some of you can help me out.) When Tep's mother realizes she may have inadvertantly broken them up, she encourages Tep to call Tau and sort it out. But he doesn't (right?). In fact, when he shows up for the party, Tau believes him when he says he's in a relationship, and has to apologize for breaking up with him (seemingly for the first time). 1st issue... was that really an apology? Explain yourself. Tell your side of the story and make your lover understand. I'm sorry doesn't cut it. 2nd issue: So... Tep knows why Tau broke up with him... but he DOESN'T call? He avoids him for a year? You find out the love of your life made an incredible sacrifice and that in fact you could still end up together, but you don't call him? Then you return a year later and prank him ("I have a BF in LA") rather than reveal your true feelings. The pranking is well established, that's what these guys do... but honestly, realize when you should prank and when you should be open and honest. Then there's a time cut and miraculously they are back together without ever having hashed out the past. That's an important "in between" moment I would have liked to have seen. WHich brings me to issue 3: The big prank at the resort. 4-5 episodes of this? Ugh. What a HORRIBLE prank to pull on someone you love. To make him think that Ri was hitting on him, to promote jealousy... and you claim it's all in the name of love. That's cruel. Once Tep starts to get upset, any decent BF would pull him aside and comfort him, but not Tau. He didn't even have to reveal the prank, but he could still comfort his lover. This made me hate Tau. I don't care how sweet his words were after that. You put me through hell and then expect me to put on a wedding suit? As someone said here, "learn to read the room". I have other issues, minor story points, and directing choices but enough.

The acting was serviceable. I liked Nics best of all. I didn't dislike Biancx like many here. Nin and Makisig were okay. The leads were decent. I have to admit, I watched this on my phone, so some of the subtlety was lost on me. I'm not sure I saw actual tears ever. But again, that could just be due to screen size. The script was also very repetitive (and I'm not even talking about the filler). In one scene, I counted characters say the same phrase 8 times, and not for effect. It was just lazy writing, not moving the story or the scene forward at all. So frustrating.

While I would certainly like to watch a Pangs series, I WON'T. Because I'm afraid the writer and director will make all the same bad choices they made here. And In Between Season 2 is a definite non-starter. Great potential. Wasted.

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