The standard has been SET.

I have been watching BL’s for four years now, and A Tale of 1000 Stars is by far one of the most fulfilling shows that has been produced from this genre.

The all-round quality of acting, directing, cinematography and screenwriting is impeccable and I have been having a hard time trying to bring myself to enjoy watching other current BL’s - the standard was that good. A Tale of 1000 stars had been sitting in my ‘To Watch’ for a long time, I couldn’t get myself around to as I was concerned the ‘Heart Transplant’ trope was going to result in Tian only being attracted to Phupha because he ‘became’ Torfun, but the progression of the show proved me wrong and I completed it in one whole night.

Acting / Cinematography / Sound Track

To begin with, this is by far one of the most unconventional BL’s out there - a masterpiece Backaof should be proud of. The depth of the narrative seems completely independent of the genre as a whole, and does not play into any of the common BL tropes, creating a series that is realistic, and a love story that viewers can truly immerse themselves in and connect to.

The aesthetic of the series is beautiful, I understand there was a lot of tropical weather to contend with, but the production remains top quality. The cinematic hues are washed with warm tones setting a warm, somewhat nostalgic mood.

The composition of the frame and cutting is extremely well planned, enhancing the natural chemistry between Mix and Earth. They portray the emotions of the characters they play realistically and these are perfectly captured on film. The tensions that are created through the aforementioned film techniques showcase their acting skills further, and viewers are able to clearly understand how the characters are feeling. Not to mention the carefully crafted soundtrack, there is no cheesiness, and the music matches the moods of the scenes perfectly.

Themes / Character Development

I find many BL’s focus on petty relationship drama, just trying to create a light-hearted and feel good story. The depth of ATOTS does not take away from the the ‘feel-goodness’ but successfully goes down a route that challenges themes of Identity and Class Divide.

The romance is intertwined with Tian’s story of finding himself immaculately. The role of both Phupha and Tian complement themselves in a way that their characters are both able to develop. By the end of the series, it is clear that they both have a clear individual of self, which makes for a mature relationship. Together they overcome guilt and regret, learn about forgiveness to themselves and each other and are comfortable with their relationship regardless of a class divide. They are both comfortable with their own purpose in love, contributing to their understanding of what it means for them to be together, and the strengths and weaknesses each of them has.

I absolutely loved the way Tian learnt about community. You could definitely see how the villagers felt about a ‘Rich City Kid’ coming to have a bit of ‘fun’ but the way Tian developed an identity within a community was a beautiful way to show his growth as a person, and illustrate his understanding of the value in life.

I loved the coming out scene of Tian to Tul. The reaction, acceptance and support seemed so natural and is how it should be! The role of the supporting characters is often undercapitalised by BL’s but the function of a family unit, the supportive best friends and the guidance from the older members of the community really contributed to the development of the main characters.

Summative Comments

This is truly one of the few BL’s that successfully communicates realistic issues, and challenges the viewer to consider the way that they perceive their own value and life.

Finally, of course the love story was extremely satisfying - I think I was crying from episode 6 onwards, but by the end it was pure tears of joy.

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