Unique, Humorous, and Heartfelt

This series defies the cookie-cutter feel of much of what passes for BL in some circles and instead offers fans a genuinely touching, and often hilarious, star-crossed romance driven by its well-cast characters' personal hangups and journeys of growth. Some may quibble with what's NOT there (I won't, because I just enjoyed the whole experience so much, naysayers be damned), but I'd rather highlight what IS there: namely, surprisingly diverse, positive, and humanizing representation of different LGBTQ characters as well as a really uplifting central message.

In fairness, yes, it has one notable shortcoming (I'm sure others will address it), and the camerawork and production are not perfect (you can feel the limited budget in places, as happens with most BL). But, frankly, who cares? If you want pathos, laughs, a bara-within-a-BL, a BL-within-a-BL, shippable idols, stalker-y journalists, and one of the most adorable opposites-attract main couples in recent years, then give it a chance!

Read More

Dark, Dreamlike, and Unrelenting

This is a film about a lot of things: trauma, sexual and social violence, love, desire, and the power of words and music both to injure and to heal. The camerawork, acting, soundtrack, and narrative are all unique and top notch, and I suspect those who wanted a happy ending simply didn't care about the film's central aim, which is illuminating the lasting psychological toll that society can have on those who are vulnerable or simply different.

That said, there are plenty of moments of tenderness and beauty throughout it all. It's not for the faint of heart, but it's worth a watch for anyone who wants to experience a surreal ode to the power of music, language, and love in a brutal world.

Read More

A Tender Meditation on Life, Love, Friendship, and Change

More Than Words initially left me, well, speechless. This is not some cookie-cutter BL or escapist fantasy. It is a masterfully written, lovingly crafted, beautifully shot, wonderfully acted, and deeply affecting story that spans years. It is not about one character or couple; it is not even, ultimately, about just three friends, as it really lets us, as viewers, inhibit many POVs throughout, which in turn fosters sympathy for very different (and all decidedly imperfect) people.

I can't say anything to reassure those who seek reassurance in fleeing reality. All I can say is, This series affirms life and love because it doesn't deny the challenges and changes they bring. It ends hopefully, and that feels far more earned, and far more consoling, to me than impossible promises. A masterpiece.

Read More