out of curiosity, what do you mean by it being disconnected and what did you not like about it in comparison to…
Can't speak for the other person, but originally I had issues with the editing (felt abrupt, like there was no natural flow between the scenes). I either got used to it by episode 8 or they actually fixed it in later episodes 😉
What does it mean that this drama is aired outside china?? I am pretty sure Chinese govt isnt allowing this in…
It's streamed on international platforms: Viki, GagaOOLala, YouTube (and I think some others in countries like Thailand, Korea, Japan - not sure though).
So I finally finished it... Erm... it lost some of its charm for me in the final episodes. The main couple was super cute - I still stand by my original opinion - but what I could ignore about the plot initially, became simply too frequent for me to look the other way and suspend my disbelief in a constant manner. Still, it's the best of what VBL put out this year... I really liked the plot with the sick sister - I thought the family dynamics were wholesome and sweet. I kinda wish this part of the drama got a better, less rushed conclusion, but I understand I was probably in the minority who cared about it 😋 Leads chemistry: 8/10, Plot (oh dear Lord...) 4.5-5/10, Overall: generous 6.5/10.
That's odd, since we know it was filmed in mainland China with mainland Chinese actors and a Chinese production...…
Ah, yes! I read you wrong the first time (my eyes and brain 🙄).
"It's like demonstrating "we're really not targeting the mainland Chinese audience, honest!"" - for real though! 😂 And we all know they still *are* their main target anyway :>
As for listing it under Taiwan, Singapore or Mainland China on different platforms: I don't quite understand the entire strategy tbh. It's way too multi-layered and contradictory for me to grasp it ;)
That's odd, since we know it was filmed in mainland China with mainland Chinese actors and a Chinese production...…
Oh btw, speaking of simplified characters - the version on Viki actually has the opening with credits written in traditional characters, not simplified. To confuse us even more 😋
That's odd, since we know it was filmed in mainland China with mainland Chinese actors and a Chinese production...…
Revenged Love, The Sparkle In Your Eye and Blue Canvas of Youthful Days are all Mainland Chinese BL dramas listen on Viki under Taiwan category.
I suppose it has something to do with them not being officially aired in the Mainland China? Revenged Love YouTube channel is set for Singapore, but since Viki doesn't have the Singapore category... maybe hence Taiwan? 😋
I think this show was destined to create a lot of hype simply for the fact that its original creator is the same…
I'm actually so happy it was toned down... 😋 I read bits of the novel years ago, and while I don't remember details of the plot much, I do remember some *scenes* and the overall impression they left on me 😱😉 I absolutely love the drama so far!
I'd assume the reason everybody is eating this show up is because most currently airing BLs are not giving what…
I think this show was destined to create a lot of hype simply for the fact that its original creator is the same person who was behind Addicted in the past (a show that's quite problematic if we're being honest, but nevertheless considered iconic). Plus it's craaazy entertaining. It's not flawless (I had some issues with editing, especially in the initial few episodes), but the plot doesn't feel like a recycled BL formula, characters are vivid, it has a fair share of unhinged moments lol - what's not to like 😉 And the tension. The t.e.n.s.i.o.n.
I'm going to do research about why it's so overrated asf i think its because of gay ship FUJOJIS(?) MADE THIS…
I went into it *not* expecting a BL, I watched it as if I was reading a shounen manga, cause that's the vibe I kept getting from it (until it went deeper and darker).
Plenty of people enjoyed this drama without viewing it via BL lens.
Ok, so I can understand when people complain about The On1y One or Heesu in Class 2 not being BL, being censored,…
Since we're adding disclaimers, then let me start with one too: I didn't have an issue with you disliking the show nor was I confused about it. I was disagreeing with the notion that this drama is not a BL. Just that :) Whether it's a BL and whether it's a *good* BL are two different questions :)
As for what you said about the chemistry between the main characters - I respectfully disagree. I think not only their chemistry is decent, I also find it rather effortless. Maybe it's not the sparks-are-flying-everywhere type of chemistry, but it's a really cute, soft, domestic vibe they're giving. You've watched less than three episodes so I don't know if you've seen any of the kisses or flirting moments. Maybe you missed on those.
I think especially the guy playing Da Hei is really natural in the intimate scenes, but both are doing a decent job honestly (they don't look stiff, they don't have like 15 cm distance between their bodies when kissing, it's a very comfortable type of chemistry and translates fantastic onto screen).
Anyway, to your point about BL audiences giving a pass to a series just because it's a BL. Yeah, it happens a lot, I noticed it too. People would consume anything as long as it has two good-looking dudes making out, regardless of how questionable are the story or acting. And if a drama happens to be decent on those fronts, it's treated like Nolan-level of cinematic event ;) Still, I myself am somewhat guilty of lowering my standards when it comes to BL dramas myself, making excuses due to low budgets or popular tropes, "convention" of the genre and the overall quality of it (and then when I see a one-take long, dynamic scene like an argument in the street in "My Tooth, Your Love" I loose my shit and can't stop fangirling over it 😋 Don't know if you've ever seen it).
Still, I don't think the quality is going downwards as much as you make it out to be. While yes, Taiwan had a streak of bad shows recently and Korea is in a difficult spot because it's not easy to top or compete with Love in the Big City, but a few recent shows I've watched out of Japan were really good (When it rains, it pours; Our Youth; and there was this one show which I forgot the tile of, that told a story of a guy who was a gangster and was terribly abused by the environment as a kid and another guy who got disowned by his family for being gay - it was super heavy, but quite good and deep, too). When it comes to Japanese dramas, I actually think BLs are often way better than regular straight romances (at least most of the ones available on Viki, I'm not talking about shows featuring Japanese A-listers like Yamashita Tomohisa or Sato Takeru - maybe these are better, idk)
The final point I want to address is your observation about actors using BLs as a step in their career, while playing it safe and trying not to appear too gay. Indeed, I know BL shows are in fact often treated as a trampoline to what's considered a "real" acting career and I know some Taiwanese actors successfully "transition" to mainstream (Fandy Fan being a good example). I honestly think it's a good thing an actor can branch out into different genres as opposed to just playing the same thing, sometimes even within the same "ship" like they do in Thailand, but I do think it sucks that BL shows are treated as somewhat lesser in that system. But then again, I think their quality plays a part in it too (and we have a vicious cycle). But I digress.
I don't really think the actors need to worry about looking too gay, at least not in Taiwan. I mean, many mainstream Taiwanese dramas would feature gay/lesbian relationships and actors go all out in those (Let's Talk About Chu being a case in point).
But coming back to Fight For You. I'm personally enjoying it, despite the outlandish undercover agent part of the plot. The relationship development feels natural to me, the actors have cute chemistry, the acting is not bad, and the side characters (like family members) add to the drama, instead of just being screen fillers. But that is just - disclaimer 😋 - my opinion.
If a series blows up and gains popularity it's only natural that there'd be more people curious about it and amongst…
Oh, I see. I thought WeTV was more involved with the overall production and promotion, seeing pieces of the drama filmed in China and WeTV logos everywhere, including pillows ;)
As for promotions amount, I don't really watch much Thai BLs and to be honest I don't follow promotions closely anyway. I saw the amount they were getting and it seemed really decent compared to what some Taiwanese shows receive 😋 But I guess the industry standard is completely different.
I think there probably are some people who would rate the series down or write very unfavourable comments and reviews for the reason you mentioned. I've seen which I believed to be similar things happen under shows that garner much attention or have already famous celebrities casted (not talking abt BL, just in general). That's what happens when fan and anti-fan culture enters spaces like MDL, which were originally intended for discussing and sharing opinions about a show.
On the other hand, again, not everyone who writes a negative comment is a hater per se. I myself have some criticisms towards this series (which I personally find valid - but of course I would, since they're mine lol), but I'm nowhere near hating it.
This is not a BL.Remember that "boys love" thing that is kind of right there in the genre's name, "Boys Love?"There…
Ok, so I can understand when people complain about The On1y One or Heesu in Class 2 not being BL, being censored, straight-washed etc. I don't necessarily share the same opinion, but I can see where it's coming from. However, here you lost me. I mean, yeah, the drama kind of dropped the ball when portraying the ML's relationship once they got together. So far we saw them kiss before they got together, in their fantasies, in flashbacks after the break-up fight and even during the break-up fight. So, there are indeed some weird choices there... but still - there was an obvious attraction on both sides, actual kissing scenes (not fish-kisses, not dare-kisses) and legit confessions. You might dislike the drama, it's your right to do so - I wouldn't call it a masterpiece myself, but going as far as calling it non-BL is kinda difficult to understand to me. What are the prerequisites for a show to be considered a BL then? Also, what is even straight-passing?
I think the main divider between whether people hated this or at least kind of liked it was if they watched it…
I actually had no problem with it being slow, or there being misunderstandings, or characters communicating poorly. My biggest issue was Do Ba Woo's treatment of Ji Hoon throughout the entire series. He was like the main character of main characters: all about me, me, me. My unrequited crush, my broken heart and my pride. Not even once considering he was hurting his supposedly best friend/crush in the process.
any recommendations for something with the same feel?
Well... I'm not sure what do you mean by "the same feel", but... If it's a story with a strong homoerotic subtext without a directly stated relationship or romance then maybe series like The On1y One or Killer and Healer can be your cup of tea. If you want a gay romance with an artistic twist to its cinematography then a Korean series The Eight Sense might be something you'd enjoy. And if you're looking for the overall kinda "magical realism" vibe coupled with a love story (doesn't matter gay or straight) then an anime movie Your Name (Kimi no Na wa) is the one that comes to my mind (it actually is quite similar in a lot of aspects).
For all those who keep saying that the series doesn't deserve the rating (and i know many of them are going crazy…
If a series blows up and gains popularity it's only natural that there'd be more people curious about it and amongst them there will be people who might not like it. That's one thing. Another thing is those people have the right to voice their opinions just as those who think Top Form is the best series in the history of universe... I've seen both types in here (people who are surprised by the rating because they think it's too high and those who think it's still too low). Criticising does not automatically equal hating... (provided the critique pertains to the quality of work, acting skills etc. and don't go into personal attacks on actors etc. and if it's a well-articulated critique it's fun to read it, regardless of your own stance - at least for me)
P.S. I don't think Top Form suffers from lack of promotions. Don't they have like weekly reactions to episodes, actors doing live streams, interviews etc.?
P.S. 2 I see people repeating it's a small company drama or out-of-nowhere drama. But WeTV is literally Tencent aka a global conglomerate... How is that a small company? ;) (I'm asking genuinely, not nitpicking or anything).
1 
I really liked the plot with the sick sister - I thought the family dynamics were wholesome and sweet. I kinda wish this part of the drama got a better, less rushed conclusion, but I understand I was probably in the minority who cared about it 😋
Leads chemistry: 8/10,
Plot (oh dear Lord...) 4.5-5/10,
Overall: generous 6.5/10.
"It's like demonstrating "we're really not targeting the mainland Chinese audience, honest!"" - for real though! 😂 And we all know they still *are* their main target anyway :>
As for listing it under Taiwan, Singapore or Mainland China on different platforms: I don't quite understand the entire strategy tbh. It's way too multi-layered and contradictory for me to grasp it ;)
To confuse us even more 😋
I suppose it has something to do with them not being officially aired in the Mainland China?
Revenged Love YouTube channel is set for Singapore, but since Viki doesn't have the Singapore category... maybe hence Taiwan? 😋
I absolutely love the drama so far!
And the tension. The t.e.n.s.i.o.n.
Plenty of people enjoyed this drama without viewing it via BL lens.
Whether it's a BL and whether it's a *good* BL are two different questions :)
As for what you said about the chemistry between the main characters - I respectfully disagree. I think not only their chemistry is decent, I also find it rather effortless. Maybe it's not the sparks-are-flying-everywhere type of chemistry, but it's a really cute, soft, domestic vibe they're giving. You've watched less than three episodes so I don't know if you've seen any of the kisses or flirting moments. Maybe you missed on those.
I think especially the guy playing Da Hei is really natural in the intimate scenes, but both are doing a decent job honestly (they don't look stiff, they don't have like 15 cm distance between their bodies when kissing, it's a very comfortable type of chemistry and translates fantastic onto screen).
Anyway, to your point about BL audiences giving a pass to a series just because it's a BL. Yeah, it happens a lot, I noticed it too. People would consume anything as long as it has two good-looking dudes making out, regardless of how questionable are the story or acting. And if a drama happens to be decent on those fronts, it's treated like Nolan-level of cinematic event ;)
Still, I myself am somewhat guilty of lowering my standards when it comes to BL dramas myself, making excuses due to low budgets or popular tropes, "convention" of the genre and the overall quality of it (and then when I see a one-take long, dynamic scene like an argument in the street in "My Tooth, Your Love" I loose my shit and can't stop fangirling over it 😋 Don't know if you've ever seen it).
Still, I don't think the quality is going downwards as much as you make it out to be. While yes, Taiwan had a streak of bad shows recently and Korea is in a difficult spot because it's not easy to top or compete with Love in the Big City, but a few recent shows I've watched out of Japan were really good (When it rains, it pours; Our Youth; and there was this one show which I forgot the tile of, that told a story of a guy who was a gangster and was terribly abused by the environment as a kid and another guy who got disowned by his family for being gay - it was super heavy, but quite good and deep, too). When it comes to Japanese dramas, I actually think BLs are often way better than regular straight romances (at least most of the ones available on Viki, I'm not talking about shows featuring Japanese A-listers like Yamashita Tomohisa or Sato Takeru - maybe these are better, idk)
The final point I want to address is your observation about actors using BLs as a step in their career, while playing it safe and trying not to appear too gay. Indeed, I know BL shows are in fact often treated as a trampoline to what's considered a "real" acting career and I know some Taiwanese actors successfully "transition" to mainstream (Fandy Fan being a good example). I honestly think it's a good thing an actor can branch out into different genres as opposed to just playing the same thing, sometimes even within the same "ship" like they do in Thailand, but I do think it sucks that BL shows are treated as somewhat lesser in that system. But then again, I think their quality plays a part in it too (and we have a vicious cycle). But I digress.
I don't really think the actors need to worry about looking too gay, at least not in Taiwan. I mean, many mainstream Taiwanese dramas would feature gay/lesbian relationships and actors go all out in those (Let's Talk About Chu being a case in point).
But coming back to Fight For You. I'm personally enjoying it, despite the outlandish undercover agent part of the plot. The relationship development feels natural to me, the actors have cute chemistry, the acting is not bad, and the side characters (like family members) add to the drama, instead of just being screen fillers. But that is just - disclaimer 😋 - my opinion.
As for promotions amount, I don't really watch much Thai BLs and to be honest I don't follow promotions closely anyway. I saw the amount they were getting and it seemed really decent compared to what some Taiwanese shows receive 😋 But I guess the industry standard is completely different.
I think there probably are some people who would rate the series down or write very unfavourable comments and reviews for the reason you mentioned. I've seen which I believed to be similar things happen under shows that garner much attention or have already famous celebrities casted (not talking abt BL, just in general). That's what happens when fan and anti-fan culture enters spaces like MDL, which were originally intended for discussing and sharing opinions about a show.
On the other hand, again, not everyone who writes a negative comment is a hater per se. I myself have some criticisms towards this series (which I personally find valid - but of course I would, since they're mine lol), but I'm nowhere near hating it.
I mean, yeah, the drama kind of dropped the ball when portraying the ML's relationship once they got together. So far we saw them kiss before they got together, in their fantasies, in flashbacks after the break-up fight and even during the break-up fight. So, there are indeed some weird choices there... but still - there was an obvious attraction on both sides, actual kissing scenes (not fish-kisses, not dare-kisses) and legit confessions.
You might dislike the drama, it's your right to do so - I wouldn't call it a masterpiece myself, but going as far as calling it non-BL is kinda difficult to understand to me.
What are the prerequisites for a show to be considered a BL then?
Also, what is even straight-passing?
If it's a story with a strong homoerotic subtext without a directly stated relationship or romance then maybe series like The On1y One or Killer and Healer can be your cup of tea.
If you want a gay romance with an artistic twist to its cinematography then a Korean series The Eight Sense might be something you'd enjoy.
And if you're looking for the overall kinda "magical realism" vibe coupled with a love story (doesn't matter gay or straight) then an anime movie Your Name (Kimi no Na wa) is the one that comes to my mind (it actually is quite similar in a lot of aspects).
Another thing is those people have the right to voice their opinions just as those who think Top Form is the best series in the history of universe... I've seen both types in here (people who are surprised by the rating because they think it's too high and those who think it's still too low). Criticising does not automatically equal hating... (provided the critique pertains to the quality of work, acting skills etc. and don't go into personal attacks on actors etc. and if it's a well-articulated critique it's fun to read it, regardless of your own stance - at least for me)
P.S. I don't think Top Form suffers from lack of promotions. Don't they have like weekly reactions to episodes, actors doing live streams, interviews etc.?
P.S. 2 I see people repeating it's a small company drama or out-of-nowhere drama. But WeTV is literally Tencent aka a global conglomerate... How is that a small company? ;) (I'm asking genuinely, not nitpicking or anything).