This review may contain spoilers
Refreshingly Realistic Love Triangles
This show was called "Innocence: Bangkok Love Stories" as played on Netflix in the U.S. It concerns multiple love triangles, anchored by three main male leads: Danny (Pond Ponlawit), JC (Kawin Manonukul) and Simon (Ten Tosatid). The most interesting triangle surrounds a BL story involving Simon and Keaton (Max Nattapol) and a wealthy female cougar (older woman who likes young men), Jennista (Nicole Theriault). Jennista is probably the most complex and interesting character. On one hand, she's presented almost like a stereotypical James Bond villain, always with a conspiratorial demeanor and seen frequently stroking a white cat alone in her sprawling mansion. Nevertheless, she becomes the hero of the piece, facilitating Simon & Keaton's dreams. Simon is our main BL hero whose mother (Rudklao Amratisha) is afflicted with Alzheimer's disease. Their scenes together are among the best in the show. Simon's main love interest is Keaton, who first met as children. There are many wonderful flashbacks to provide clues to their mysterious love-hate relationship. Honorable mention should be given to Naphon Phromsuwan who, as Dr. Krit, has a brief affair with Simon. Their scenes together are nicely rendered. All of the characters have very complicated lives and relationships. The dramas are driven by the mystery of which partner in their respective triangles will the lead guys choose. It's beautifully photographed, except the bar scenes tend to be too dark. There are several cliche LGBT supporting characters the are meant to provide comic relief, but undermine the realistic tone of the main stories. Overall, I enjoyed the show and can recommend it.
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