A Tale of a Thousand Stars (2021)

A Masterpiece and A Game-Changer in Thai BL Industry

-- Story --

The story is closely-adapted from a novel, thus I cannot really criticise the story in the series. It is closely-tied to Thai culture with many symbolisms that may look weird or even rude in other culture's perspective. For example, Phupha pushing Tian away for Tian's own greater good. It can be perceived as a good and a bad thing; depends on the perspective. You can find many discussions about this in the comment section on both YouTube and MDL.

I must say that the series has a better ending than the novel. In the novel, Tian cancelled his plan to study in US to return to the village. In the series, Tian still went to US and came back to the village two years after that. It made the scene when Phupha got to see Tian again more romantic.

But the ending in the series (Ep 10) was too fast-paced. It is predictable though since the climax (Tian's confession and/or Phupha's getting shot) happened in Ep 8-9. The ending was crammed in just one episode and I think that is not enough.

My only complain is Phupha's appearance in the cliff in the last episode. He came alone to there after getting a RED ALERT notice. That was basically suicide.

Oh, and the scene when Phupha and Tian returned to the village from the hospital in Ep 9. Phupha drived the car using one hand. I am still finding the reasoning behind his ability to do that.


-- Acting/Cast --

Near perfect.

Earth is the right actor to perform Phupha. His micro-expression was out of the world. I really like how Phupha sighed before talking to Tian. It really showed the struggle of an old man when talking to a young man. And the beard, it's legendary lol.

Mix did an excellent job in his first time as an actor. There was something in his eyes that could make me feel what Tian felt. Some of the crying scenes looks too forced though. Compared to Gun ATP's crying scenes in Theory of Love, Mix's crying scenes are still behind. But that is actually a compliment because I compare him to Gun ATP. Nobody beats that man in the crying department.

The thing that amazes me the most is how Earth and Mix shows the love Phupha and Tian had towards each other without even saying "I love you" and "Will you be my boyfriend?" at all. Their actions alone were powerful enough to convey the message. This is the first time I see this in my 20 years watching gay-themed films/series. Truly a game-changer.

The selfie scene in Ep 10 could have been done better though. No way Tian could take a selfie with +30 people. When I watched it, my eyes were focused on the three girls behind. I am so sorry for them.


-- Music --

I fall in love with the main soundtrack Ni Taan Pan Dao. I am going to listen to it everyday.

The music suits the theme and the setting of the series. It is a perfect match. The khlui (Thai flute) sound made me feel like I was really there, in the village, experiencing the story unfolds. The lyrics is perfect for the story. And the timing of its appearance throughout the series is impeccable.


-- Rewatch Value --

This series is highly recommended even for non-BL-enthusiasts. This series is not perfect, but it is no doubt one of the best (if not the best) gay-themed films/series I have ever watched.

Lire davantage

AMAZING! MUST WATCH - Sweet and Heartwarming

Few shows make me ant to write reviews, but this one did (along with ITSAY). This has definitely joined Itsay in the ranks of my fave BLs but also my favorite series altogether because I feel both (in different ways) transcend the label BL.

This is a story of growth and joy. The way the village is built up and each character is warm and not a nasty villain (aside from the villain himself lol) just made me love everyone.

The chemistry is explooosive and even though we suffer so much til we get a kiss this show made me feel so much more than series where characters make out explicitly all the time, because the build up of the desire, the way the looked at each other...it gave me EVERYTHING. I hope and wish and pray Earthmix will become one of those duos that repeats partnerships.

I love how all of Phupha's buddies are absolutely aware of his crush and encourage it. I love how Phupha is head over heels for Tian. I love how Tian is a playboy but not the nasty arrogant type, but one that is sweet and willing to learn quite promptly.

The last episode gave me LIFE and a bit more. I recommend 1000%

Congrats to Mix. From the BTS I could see this as quite a challenge for him and he rose to it beautifull.y

Lire davantage

I'm here after rewatching

I know a lot of fans already reviewed this series, but I want to write one mostly for myself to look back to in the future.

First off, I was really looking forward to atots even before the series aired. The teaser really caught my attention, plus there's earth pirapat. When atots started airing, of course I had to watch. I instantly fell in love with their opening song. It was very calming and addicting.

I'd say earth's acting was good. It's expected of him, since I've seen his other series and I liked him. But I was really shocked with mix. I wasn't familiar with him, and thought he had a lot of acting experience before. I didn't know atots was his acting debut. With that kind of acting, it won't be hard for him to land onto another project. I instantly became a fan. What made me really stay is because of earthmix's chemistry. It was one of the best! I really hope they can be one of GMM's pillar. They also have a large fandom, considering they only have just sailed.

Tbh I haven't had the chance to read atots novel. I only heard the story is different from the series. I don't know how much, so I can't really compare them back then. After rewatching atots this time, I finally bought the novel and read it. I think the angst really ran deep in the novel. Maybe could've been deeper than in the series. However, I was taken aback that the series was pretty different from the novel. They changed a lot of details and scenes. Some I hoped was included in the series. Nevertheless, the series was much much better logic wise and plot wise. It made much more sense and is believable to an extent. I'm glad they made the change.

To say this is one of the best thai BL series is an understatement. Of course I had to rewatch atots. maybe I'll watch it a thousand times if I must. I could see better details when I rewatch and I understand more of why the characters act that way after knowing the whole story. I think rewatching atots is a new experience. I can see myself rewatching this again next year. I'm just too in love with this series.

Lire davantage

One hell of an emotional rollercoaster ride (a very good one at that!)

This series is undeniably one of best BL shows ever, or at least among the other Thai BL series. Scrap that, ATOTS doesn't need to be labelled as merely a BL series because it's more than that. It's love between 2 flawed humans, between teachers and their students, between forest rangers and nature, between a city boy and the seemingly simply village which he had found a home in. The story is so rich of every aspect one could ask for in a Tv
series.

The storyline is very good: for those who are new to the series and have yet to read the novel, ATOTS is sure to keep you on your toes, hooked, and always anticipating the next episode. For those who read the novel (I did, though only halfway), the plot might seem a little rushed, nevertheless, it's still definitely worth to (re)watch. The actors are simply PHENOMENAL at their job, as well as the rest of the cast & crew. And don't even get me started at the ending... IT WAS THE BEST ONE I COULD'VE EVER ASK FOR. THANK YOU P'AOF!! All the buckets of tears I shed have paid off at last. I'll forever cherish this tale :)

-1 point because 10 episodes is too short (jk)

Lire davantage

What an emotional roller coaster

Finally something real from Thai BL series. Amazing acting, chemistry, music, landscapes... just everything! It was very enjoyable watching something new, out of school uniforms, which we are used watcing from Thai BL dramas, without noisy music an FINALLY, without fake acting. Huge respect for this series and a new beginning of 2021 with upcoming series. I’m sending one big congratulations to actors and director, you made a masterpiece. It’s a proof that you don’t need a series with many episodes, many confusions and complicated plots. It was a real breath of fresh air!

Lire davantage

Won't regret after watching.

Hiii! Actually it's been a long since i haven't had written review for any series or drama . i also , like others write review only when I like something from the drama or whole drama. And yes this drama is just pricelessly awesome. It's been long since I watch anything but seriously it was worth watching this drama. Acting was mind blowing and actors suited to the character. But I wish if this could be little more , I didn't want this series to end sooner. Both actors are seriously superb. Both did acting so well. I could feel thier hard work. This raised the level of BL.
It made me realise that BLs could have many more things that just simple romance. Both actors were new to it I guess but their acting was miraculous ( I know I keep talking about actors but they are really good) .
You should not hesitate to watch. Must watch this Bl.
And the title attracted me a lot . It was giving pure vibes. Which make me attracted to it.

Lire davantage

LET ME TALK ABOUT EARTHMIX' CHEMISTRY IN ONE SENTENCE

Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words. Their eyes speak a thousand words.

Lire davantage

It makes me fall in love for them?

To be honest, this is my first BL series. And coming from a kdrama fan, it's kinda awkward seeing their acting kinda strange in a way, especially Earth with that unnatural smile. But, I say but cause it makes sense! I think Phupa got a lovestruck first time he sees Tian, so that's why the smile is warm and awkward, cause it's love. From the beginning, me that just watched it for fun become really invested in the story and even cry when Tian got overwhelmed. And that last episode, it's like they just giving bomb of surprises, from forehead kisses, that scene on the cliff, and in Phupa's house OMG! Definitely worth watching, (tmi I became Earth fans now and my wallpaper + gallery is full with his damn smile. If I ever shake his hand, I will die peacefully)

Lire davantage

Imperfect but ultimately satisfying

Very few series captivated me the way 1000 Stars did. It's not a perfect show and has more than a few faults but the package as a whole more than delivers: unique plot,  superb acting and incredible music.

My expectations were initially low, BLs are not exactly my kind of quality entertainment. By the time I discovered 1000 Stars, 3 episodes were released already and I binged watch all 3 in one sitting.

Suffice to say, Friday has been my favorite day after that.

Episodes 1 to 5 are perfection, it's like riding a rollercoaster that's slowly going up, building anticipation on where the series is going. The show makes the best cliffhangers too.  Episodes 6 to 9 is when the ride took sudden twists and turns, some I find frustrating to be honest, it was either a yay or a nay ?. But despite everything, the show didn't lose its heart and I was so invested in Pupha and Tian's story that I badly clamored for a happy ending.

Earth and Mixx are a match made in heaven. What a pairing, incredible chemistry! My heart is swelling with happiness everytime they gaze into each other. I am all for that slow burn romance as I personally find it more relatable. It was a good move to focus the story on the leads with no side couples.

1000 Stars also introduced several supporting characters with a heart in the form of Torfun (great girl, I really felt sorry for her), Tul and Longtae (the friends we all need), Khama ever the wisest with his way of words and the best wingman in the Universe, Dr. Nam! They all serve their purpose and no one came across as one-dimensional, you cared for each.

Lastly, the musical score of this series is top-notch, I am enjoying the OST way too much.

A Tale of Thousand Stars deserves all the outpouring love it's getting and rightfully so. May it inspire other upcoming series to elevate the game of story telling. For now, this is my favorite.

Lire davantage

Best series i've watched ever?

when a good story come along with good director and producer and so the actors omg, what a masterpiece it is!! 10 weeks ive been spend for watching it episode by episode and the story actually getting better and got the final at the final episode last week, so sad this series must done but the story will always on my heart<3
honestly most of their episode success on make me cry like for 2 hours straight....
every actors in this series also doing their own greatly so damnly good, idk what am i gonna watch after this series end but honestly knowing this series was over just making my heart broke like fr:"(, but it is what it is, hopefully there will be another earthmix series

Lire davantage

The best Thai BL I ever watched in my life.

This series has everything you expect from a good show. The story is interesting and the actors are incredible. They have amazing chemistry and let you feel butterfly’s in your stomach the whole time.
It’s not a story about a third person who’s ruining the relationship or university students.
It’s something new and unique.
You have to watch this masterpiece.
Overall it doesn’t feel rushed and is a must for every boys love fan.
The production team and director did an amazing job on the cinematography.
The actors let you feel every single emotion and mix (the actor of tian) is a rookie and still manages to do such a good job.
You will not be disappointed after watching it.

Lire davantage