Reviews

A BL Where It's Obvious It Was Filmed With Only Half of the Script Complete

To start off, the pilot trailer did not interest me AT ALL last year and the official trailer interested me even less. I only watched the first episode because 1) I was missing watching Be My Favorite on Fridays and 2) ViewJune had become an official GL pair in the time between the pilot and the first episode that I was interested in if they would have a GL romance in the show (spoiler: They do not until the last episode as it's a student-teacher relationship). I dropped it after the first episode and re-picked it up halfway through the show. About half of the show is montages!!! It annoyed the hell out of me that Sailom's confession was intercut with montages of KangSai, considering we had only 4-5 episodes of their interactions anyway up to that point!! The show even resorted to showing us flashbacks of stuff that the audience had JUST SEEN. The constant montages and flashbacks made the first half of the show feel very empty. However, the second half of the show does pick up with shining performances from the side couples GuyNawa and SaifahName. I would do anything for a mini-series following Saifah and Name which were the real dangerous romance of this show. The last thing that truly saved this show for me was Perth and Chimon's performance, they truly are Actors.

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Nothing dangerous about THIS romance

Dangerous Romance has been, for me, the biggest disappointment for BLs this year. Here are my pros and cons:

PROS

FIRST TWO EPISODES. The bullying was brutal, but the drama was intense. Based on the first two episodes, I felt that I might be giving this series a 10. (Sigh.)

GRANDMA. The best character on any series, ever.

PIMFAH. Loved her.

SAILOM. I liked him as a character, especially in the first part of the series.

GUY/NAVA. Hawt and sexy. They could have their own gay porn channel.

MAX/AUTO. They obviously became close friends. I could have shipped them as a couple.

SAIFAH'S BODY. Please pass me a fan.

CONS

STORY. First 2 eps were compelling. Kang did a complete (and inexplicable), 180 starting in Ep 3. He became so sickeningly sweet, we might as well have been watching Barney and Friends. Kang never apologized for his early psycho behavior, and we could have skipped Eps 3 through 9 without missing anything.

KANG/SAILOM. No chemistry. I mean ZERO. Should have become friends and that's it. I can't imagine the two of them having sex, or least being any good at it.

KANG'S DAD. I thought he would at least be some kind of sinister character, but he was just a wimp. That lame ass excuse for not expecting anything from Kang was ridiculous. And then we were supposed to LIKE him? I hope he steps on a pebble every time he's barefoot.

KANG'S GUNSHOT WOUND. So in Ep 11, Kang was shot, although you'd never know it. In his arm? In his back? There was no screaming out in pain, he just hugged Sailom with a smile on his face. And how could the gunman not have killed Kang? He was less than two feet away.

THE WIND/WINDMILL THING. I suppose it was cute, once. But Kang KEPT bringing it up, to the point where we all wanted to barf. (And it's dumb anyway... a windmill does need wind, but wind does not need a windmill.)

Despite my low rating, I did enjoy parts of this series. I gave it a fairly high rewatch value, because I actually did rewatch quite a lot of it. But it did not deliver what was initially advertised. What could have been a brilliant series just fizzled.

it's a 5.0 from me.

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Overall good, would reccomend despite some elements being a little off

The plot was not boring, the execution was quite good and the story wasn't static, which is what made me look forward to the next episode everytime.
First of all I want to mention some things I appreciated. Aside from the non-boring plot, I think that the characters were overall well-built, I especially appreciated the contrast between Sailom being a mentally strong individual, opposed to the lost nature of Kanghan.
I would like to mention some of the "negative" things I personally put thought onto. First of all, the CGI because well... the gunshot, but let's leave that aside. There were some instances in which I was left slightly confused, such as Kanghan being hospitalized for a minor graze gunshot wound, and 5 minutes later hugging his father with no physical impediment, but these are minor things.
The "biggest" issue I had was with the fact that I felt a little off about the actual romance. As I do understand that people express care and love in different ways (plus considering we are dealing with teenagers), I still felt like Sailom and Kanghan sometimes didn't completely look like "couple", it's as if I couldn't grasp what the main focus of the series was, as nothing was at the center, we did get a good plot, character developement and a zoom on Sailom and Kanghan's relationship, but I feel like something was missing. Even if there were many instances where I could tell how much Sailom cared about Kanghan, in other contexts (especially when they had to convey the attraction) it just didn't hit right, to be honest I somehow felt like Chimon didn't really do his best on intimate scenes, his kisses were cute but didn't look passionate at all, which in some context would have been more appropriate (this might not be such a big deal for many, but to me it kind of takes something off that realism and relatability I expect to see in such a relationship). Despite this, by thinking more deeply about the nature and development of the characters I guess I can justify some behaviours, although, for example, I still can't comprehend Sailom's reaction to what happened to him starting from his brother's arrest, I know Sailom has a very strong and collected nature, but I feel like it looked a little bit too collected (even if, fortunately, later we got to see him breaking down in the shower, which made it make more sense), he didn't look to lost even when he was alone, I appreciate him being strong and determined to pull through, but I still think they could have conveyed his feeling slightly differently (but this is more like a personal thing, I still think it makes sense the way it is).
To add on, I think that the choice of putting the role-play scene as a post-credit scene was perfect, it left me with a light heart and happiness about the series, while also fulfilling the need of them being closer.

I absolutely need to mention that I got somehow more excited about the side couple, plus I feel like the kiss that Guy and Nawa had was the best one of the series, I personally found it the most beautiful, it made me incredibly happy as it was sweet and passionate (which is the thing that I found lacking in Sailom and Kanghan's), the tension they've been having for 12 episodes finally collided in such a sweet moment, in which I realized that they did perfectly understand eachother.

At the end of the day I am quite satisfied and would defenetly rewatch it. Overall it was very good and I would defenetly reccomend it.

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Stumbled In the Final Quarter

For a show that warned viewers to leave their morality at the door, the ending is what lost this almost-masterpiece an entire star.

I'm just going to say it: Boston deserved better writing. Neo Trai's acting performance was easily the strongest across the heavy-weight cast, but even I tired of his sad eyes and out of character whining by the end. He should have stood firm, he should have been allowed to be a non-monogamous king in peace, and he should have gotten to end the series with the threesome he was promised in the beginning. I just hope he gets the last laugh while off in New York.

Edit: After sitting with this show for a bit longer, I'm dropping my rating to a 7/10.

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Too short with shortcomings

This is a nice romance, but they missed an opertunity to get into more details due to the short run of this series. The struggle for Ryuji was not explored in detail which is a shame because in contrast to many other series he has absolute no idea about his feelings, his wants and how to express himself. Also the "kissing" scene in the finale was more lame than romantic. I don't need hot and spicy scenes mostly seen in Thai BLs but kissing should be real not just touching lips.

What this series sets it apart from others japanes BLs is the communicaton between the main characters. They always talk it out which is really refreshing. I personally can also enjoy "My Personal Weatherman" which is 100% opposite to this series.

Overall an enjoyable series with much more realistic characters compared to many other shows. Also the production value was high with some sweet moments and good dialogues.

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without wind how could a windmill spin

Oh, what an incredible journey it has been with KanghanSailom, portrayed by the talented Perth and Chimon. Dangerous Romance (or better yet, Heart in the Wind) touched the depths of our hearts with its beautiful storytelling and their mesmerizing performances. Kanghan, like a steadfast windmill, brought stability and strength to Sai, while Sailom, as gentle as the wind itself, brought love and purpose to Kang. Their on-screen chemistry was electric, making us believe in the power of true connection. It's not all perfect, there are a lot of plot holes and rushed things, but that's not the actors fault and they were still able to make this unforgettable.

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dont sleep on this one

Big Note: I'm watching without English subtitles so I have no idea what is actually being said.

This is a historical/period, drama, romance, buddy detective, with a comedic element that doesn't clash with the serious part of the story which is: who is murdering all these people, mostly women?

@11-15 minutes long, the pacing is actually good. but ya know still fast.

Female lead knows what she wants, and as the only female cop/detective on the force shes going to be the best cop/detective.

Male Lead is not going to let anyone get in his way to be the best cop/detective, very serious.

The chemistry between them is undeniable. A+ casting/acting.

Since they came in on the same day they get partnered up AND they share the same room AND the same bed platform.

Supporting cast is great!

the only downside is, I wish this was longer!

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BEST GMMTV series of the year?

STORY: I didn't expect a good story from a series that focuses on messiness & (let's be honest...) sex. But the story has some twists along the way. There are 1-2 magic moments that wows you in (almost) every episode.

ACTING: Khaotung as Ray deserves acting awards! He's (arguably) the best Thai BL actor this year. First as Sand supports him so well. FirstKhaotung is the Thai BL CP that shares a similar level of acting skills (which is rare).

Neo & Mark Pakin's acting are surprising GOOD! They need to be main leads in other series.

Book has 2 scenes that wows me. I was like "Book can act!"

Force is good at side eyes (which he does often in Only Friends.) He's also hot so he fits the character (Top).

MUSIC: The team has great taste in music (3 music types for 3 CPs). The music fits the scenes well. It helps you feel the characters' emotions.

Rewatch value: SandRay (FirstKhaotung) have MANY memorable scenes. Gonna watch them again some time.

At least 2 of their scenes should win (or at least be nominated) for BEST Thai BL scene of the year.

SUMMARY: Only Friends is Director Jojo & Ninew's BEST work so far. They should do a season 2 in the Only Friends Stay (hostel) setting. And add new main characters like Mix, GUN, & Earth...

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Extraordinary You !!!!

I love fantasy/romantic dramas and indeed I have seen a lot of them, according to the content of the drama I thought I would watch something like the drama w two worlds with the actor Lee Jong Suk, which was great, arranged chronologically and easy to understand the plot and the gradually developing scenarios, in this drama Extraordinary You I read conflicting reviews and stood out whether to see it, the decision to see it in the end was also because of the excellent cast like ro woon and... Lee Jee Wook and also because of curiosity, the drama turned out to be one big disappointment, that even at a certain point I wanted to stop watching it but I still gave it a chance and together with I already wanted you to get to the end.
The talented cast has to say, did a good job and amazing acting, they managed to convey their turbulent emotions in a professional manner. My problem was in the confused content, and very unclear, the plot line is so messed up that I felt like I was losing myself, there were many chapters where I felt that the plot was not progressing anywhere, and the chapters felt unnecessary, there were many open questions left at the end of the plot, even though the drama apparently ends with a happy ending, There are still unanswered questions, like How did this manga world happen? Who is the writer? Why were two comics written and if the writer (the unknown) wanted to change the historical plot why did he repeat the same story ? How did Kyung's brother become self-aware and what is his role? Will all the characters be stuck in this loophole forever? What is the strange portal? Why is the comic book stored in a library where everyone can easily find it?

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A beautiful love story unlike regular BL's

This portrayed a very beautiful love story , never felt like i was watching 2 men but saw two lovers on screen.
They gave me butterflies in my stomach, such a lovely series.
I was'nt really into the story of other characters was just interested in the main couple's story, i felt like few very charismatic characters like James went to waste and they just left the characters in middle felt like they got unfinished ending. For me the endig of the series was a bit bizarre and had no logic but this cant make me forget the beautiful journey of our main couple.
Felt like the writers had full faith in the story that they gave up on steamy scenes which made this standouy from the rest of the BL's thesedays. I am sooo glad that they kept this seried very clean and focused on the romance. Like tehy were literally just staring into each others eyes and i was sqealing like a whale with excitement.
I look forward to the future projects of these two.

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Drama is so good

Oh my goodness, this drama is so good! ???
Daily dose of sunshine is my new favorite drama! Even though Daeun's first day is already stressful it was a heartwarming drama. I found myself getting quite attached to the characters from the psychiatric ward because they had their own personalities nurses, physicians, guardians, and patients.

I enjoyed how each episode's narration and the patient's perspective on mental illness were portrayed. It was also entertaining to watch the love line between Go Yoon-da-eun and Yoo Chan-da-eun Yeo Hwan-deul-le!

One of the best of the recent Netflix originals!!! ♥️

Mental illness is an unpredictable illness that can strike anyone, anywhere, at any. I'm thinking a lot about this line.

**

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The Romance Was a Major Letdown

The first episodes in the series had me hooked and the plot was fresh with so many cool twists and turns that kept me guessing. The characters were well thought out and I could relate to them from the beginning.

As it went further into the story though, I started to feel like it wasn't hitting the same. What started off being very unpredictable and unique, slowly moved into a string of tired clichés and predictable tropes. I could almost always guess what would be happening next and that was kind of a letdown. I truly had hoped for more surprises than this but the creativity was no longer there.

What really bummed me out though, was the chemistry between the two leads. Perth was actually really good and did his character's emotions justice, making it believable. Chimon? I don't know, something was off. He wasn't bad at acting, but there was no spark between the two. Their romance felt kinda flat and I just couldn't feel the love between them like I was supposed to. And well, it did leave me feeling pretty disconnected from their whole story.

Honestly, I think Chimon has to improve his acting in romance. Of course, he is talented, but regarding deep emotions and maintaining believable chemistry with a co-star, he still has room to grow. With practice he might get better

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In the end, this show was only okay for me. Writing-wise, it was pretty weak. The actors were good, but they weren't given much chance to shine with the script they were given. I know a lot of people had problems with Chimon and Perth's chemistry, but I thought they could have been much better if they were in a better show.  

The plot kept flip flopping where it was intense for a few episodes, and then we had five episodes of pure fluff, and then the intensity came back for two episodes. It wasn't consistent, and it left the show feeling like it was lacking.

Still, I was happy that Chimon finally got a chance to be a lead in a non-ensemble show. And I thought Papang was incredible, and really he could be a leading man all on his own. I would happily watch a show starring him and Pepper as leads!

I'm not mad I watched it, but honestly I wouldn't recommend it unless you really love the actors or feel the need to watch every BL. As much as I love the actors, this one was pretty skippable.

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Making our youth counts with the right guidance

Ray of Light is like your typical coming of age, school drama - with a crucial additional pillar, Hao Nan Lao Shi. Indeed, great teachers do make students care more for their studies.

What is enjoyable about Ray of Light is being able to see this story from Hao Nan Lao Shi perspectives, on how he believes his students’ potential, on how he advises them as a friend / peer, on how he spend the time with them to get through their current largest hurdle.

On the students end, I particularly like one of the students arc, Jia Kun, who wants to go Shanghai because his first love is there. Through Hao Nan Lao Shi’s words, he comes to realise that the most reliable support to protect their love is through getting a stable job which education can provide. That’s the kind of adult’s perspective, influence and guidance a lot of teenagers need in crucial juncture of their lives - and it‘s nice to see this play out well on screen.

Ren Zhen’s and Gao Yuan’s relationship dynamic is also cute. They share a side with each other that they don’t show to others, they listen to each other’s worries and support each other, they study together and know to prioritise the practical things first - it’s the kind of high school romance I ship. The romantic buff in me is interested to see more of their development as working adults.

Hao Nan Lao Shi’s backstory is a little dramatic, but I guess it grounds the character, knowing his what, his when and his why. Special mention to his mum visiting his workplace - cool mum.

Despite the aforementioned highlights, I only rated Ray of Light at 7.0 because I wasn’t pulled in by all of Qingyun Class 14. What makes high school time highly reminiscent is because of the shared camaraderie of going through the same intensive public exam that seemingly make / break everyone’s future and a celebratory graduation trip that symbolically marks the start of adulthood. While there were these in Ray of Light, I don’t feel that camaraderie bond between Class 14, which is a key ingredient for school dramas. They can’t seem to evoke that mixed feeling of anxiousness and anticipation which I once felt about graduating high school / university.

(Oops, looks like you guys could probably guess my age range now. :P)

Maybe it’s the pacing of the stories, maybe it’s the execution, maybe it’s the cast, or maybe I have past that stage in life. Regardless, Ray of Light is still worth to check out, especially if you are into coming of age stories. If it’s not for Class 14, for Hao Nan Lao Shi, who’s that ray in this story.

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