HIStory: Trapped (2019) set the bar high for BL series and it is generally, a well-made drama

The storyline was well thought out. It was able to balance the romance and action aspects of the drama series. There was character development which I really loved; furthermore, the progression of the relationship between Shao Fei and Tang Yi was realistic. They were initially enemies that turned into acquaintances and gradually became friends. When the “dating” started, Tang Yi made it clear that he wanted to try it out instead of diving into it immediately which was really realistic unlike other dramas I watched where they were lovers in an instant without the awkwardness, exploration, and getting to know each other part. The background story of Tang Yi was also established comprehensibly. It provided depth to his character and foundation for the audience to understand his actions throughout the plot. On a side note, I love the music so much. The lyrics (I read the translated version) matched the story in the series. It is one of the best OST I heard in BL dramas. It was catchy and the kind of song that could make you “feel” the scenes.

In my opinion, what made this series so great was the ability to give love scenes full of passion in a very natural way. It was not over the top where it was really sexual. I noticed that some of the BL dramas were too focused on portraying a sexual scene that it loses its other elements. One good example was the seduction scene between Shao Fei and Tang Yi. It was intimate and hot, yes, but the scene also established the connection of Shao Fei and Tang Yi as lovers. When they leaned on the wall, Shao Fei’s nervousness of being caressed was seen which gave the idea that he wasn’t able to handle the overwhelming feelings in that situation. On the other hand, when Tang Yi kissed Shao Fei’s wound, it gave a sense of appreciation and admiration towards the heroic act of Shao Fei. Basically, the drama was able to incorporate an intimate scene while showing the progression of the story as well as the relationship between the characters.

The bed scenes was just enough to show us that they love each other. In addition, the chemistry between the actors were really strong, kudos to the actors’ acting skills. The movements and facial expressions played an important role too. You could see that they were not stiff and it didn’t seem rehearsed, like I said, it was very natural. The smile, rolling on the bed, closing of eyes and the actors being immersed in the scene made it astounding. We were able to enjoy and feel the attraction between the couples in just a few minutes; moreover, the main couple exhibited passionate love scene while the second couple gave us the energetic and innocent one. HIStory 3: Trapped provided an excellent execution of the love stories between the main and second couple.

The actors were great in the series. They were able to play their parts really well. I guess what made the series work for me was the comfortability of the characters towards each other. Overall, it really set the bar high for BL dramas and it was generally a well made drama series. I recommend this drama for people who is looking for a great romance-action series with character development and good storyline.

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2 Moons (2017): A Mediocre Drama

The story was really plain and predictable. It didn’t live up to my expectations which was unfortunate because it really has a potential to have a good story line; moreover, 2 moons lacked depth. There were some scenes which were cringey and poorly executed. On the other hand, the cinematography was fine.

The cast was charismatic and good-looking; however, the acting was substandard. The facial expressions and movements were stiff which was understandable since most of them are new actors but it really affected the exhibition of scenes. It didn’t potray the suitable feelings which led for me to adjust my understanding of a certain segment. It could also be the reason why the drama lacks chemistry. For example, the actor that portrayed Phana was really stiff and the facial expressions were dull which made me believe that he doesn’t really like Wayo. The supposedly heart warming scenes became cringey and bland. On the other hand, the actors have potential to be good actors especially Bas. Overall, it is a mediocre drama which you could watch during your free time but it won’t stand out compared to other BL dramas. Instead, you would be much more interested in the actors at the end.

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Love by Chance (2018) is a delightful drama; however, it contains insupportable themes

Let’s start with the story, shall we? Love by Chance is mostly a pleasant drama with some main issues to discuss. The initial interaction of the main couple was cliche. It was the typical way of how love stories start in several romantic films and series; however, the charm of the scene was undeniable as well as the chemistry. The progression of the relationship between Ae and Pete was gradual , which was good because I noticed in some BL dramas that the relationship of the couples were fast paced that it becomes unrealistic. In the case of Ae and Pete, we were able to enjoy the sweet interactions of the main couple.

There are key points about the main story that I would like to discuss. The first one is the “coming out” scene of Pete to his mom. I loved how the drama portrayed his struggles in sharing the truth about his sexuality to his parent and generally, as a gay character. The confrontation between the mother and child was really emotional and heart warming. The second point was the exploration of Ae’s sexuality. I loved how Ae handled his feelings towards Pete. He was there for Pete as a companion during his struggles which was really admirable. The way he assessed his feelings with the help of Pond, the adorable main shipper of Ae and Pete, were good scenes.

Lastly, I have to separate this paragraph because it focuses on the intimate and emotional scenes of Ae and Pete. The chemistry between Saint and Perth was really strong. There were different kinds of kisses such as aggressive, sweet and passionate. I could see that Saint was really immersed in acting as well as Perth during their intimate scenes. What really made me squeal like a teenage girl was their first time. Although it was kind of obvious that it was rehearsed and to be honest, a little stiff, there was still a natural vibe to it. I would like to point out the way Saint and Perth executed the first bed scene. Remember the part where he followed Ae’s lips when they were kissing? I love how Saint was closing his eyes, putting appropriate facial expressions as well as moving his body somehow in order for the scene to seem believable. In addition, the song was wonderful. It truly made me “feel” and enjoy the scene. The next intimate scene was more passionate and a little aggressive. The difference between the two was apparent - the “first time” was a little sweet and awkward while the second one was enthusiastic and comfortable. It really did exhibit the attraction of two teenage boys. In accordance with this, Saint and Perth were both good rookie actors. They have a potential to be great experienced actors in the future.

The story of Tin and Can was too fast paced for me. I didn’t see the process of falling in love and instead, it was just suddenly there. Based on Tin’s character, the ability to like Can should’ve been gradual. Since there was kind of antagonism, I think the dislike towards each other should slowly disappear, followed by tolerance and eventually became acquaintances; moreover, in my opinion, it will be better if during the process, Tin would undergo character development and eventually open up to Can where the sudden possessiveness and pursuit would begin. I guess it is understandable since they are the second couple and the story would have to fit in a specific time frame.

On the other hand, Tum and Tar was enough as fillers but I won’t be able to give a deep review since there wasn’t enough material for me to create one. It was the same as Tin and Can, which were both fast paced. I could say though that the story deserves to be explored more. The theme provided an interesting issue to focus on (sexual assault) and I would like to see more of Tar’s story (trauma); moreover, I didn’t like how Tum forced himself to Tar. In accordance with this, Techno and Kengkla has the most bothering story in LBC. There was rape, deception and manipulation in it. I hate how the story of Techno and Kengkla ended in the season. It was disturbing because I couldn’t see even a slight hesitation in Kengkla’s face. I was really sad because I would’ve liked if they portrayed Kengkla’s “stubborn” attitude, intelligence and determination in a different way or they could’ve toned it down. The limit I could accept was the motorcyle part. Other than that, I really couldn’t tolerate the other planned events. I really loved the main idea on how Techno, a responsible naive and likeable guy, thought that Kengkla was innocent but really has a dark side. I just really wished they didn’t include rape and extreme manipulation.

Overall, Love by Chance is an enjoyable drama that you could rewatch and still obtain the same satisfaction. Although I didn’t quite like some of its themes but I would still recommend it to some people who are looking for a BL drama.

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Foundation for more BL Kdramas in the future

In the past, we were drawn to Korean dramas with usual troupes and storylines. From He’s Beautiful, Flower Boy Next Door, Coffee Prince, Boys over Flowers, and Princess Hours, it contained the schematic plot formulas - enemies to lovers, princely male leads and cliche romantic storylines that garnered huge attention from the viewers. These were the materials used as baseline to recognize the techniques of the industry.

The rise of Korean dramas led to more creative outputs that will surely accumulate more viewers like Descendants of the Sun, Law School, Sweet Home, It’s okay not to be okay, and Hotel Luna that were more substantial in terms of plots and characterization. I think Light on Me is a drama that could establish the same baseline for BL Korean dramas to be prominent. It has the same schematic formulas we usually see in Korean dramas - a male lead, a second male lead and a tactless main character who we all want to be happy.

In my opinion, it is a drama that anyone could enjoy even if they don’t usually watch BL dramas as long as they are a fan of typical Korean writing. The plot is really light and mellow that I personally would love to just watch the released episodes again to make my heart melt. As of the moment, I would love to reach the end to see who will our dear Tae kyung end up with, which obviously is really good because I saw a lot of viewers riding on different ships, which means they are hooked.

I read different theories but if I would solely based my opinion by only watching the drama, I don’t know who the main character will end up with because the drama gives you the thrill of making both the male leads the possible end game. I want to share that I am on Team Daon. I was first Team Shinwoo but the latest episodes made me jump on the other ship. If you are looking for a drama that would make you confuse on who to cheer on, then this drama is for you.

Overall, I hope to see more BL Korean dramas dwell on different plot lines but for now, I am satisfied with the cliche romantic storylines because I know it will only get better at this point.

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