Bad Buddy proves that no matter how plain the trailer is, the result may be different. Honestly, I had low expectations before watching it since I am running out of BL to watch and the storyline is another kind of childish story brought by GMMTV (conflicts about the two departments and the unexplained childlike war of their parents at the beginning) but in the end, I was wrong.

It’s all because of how OHM and NANON pull the whole show in the most gratifying moments for the viewers. Those stares, facial expressions, and their little gestures boosted their love bond to its maximum level. Ohm Pawat can undeniably be paired with anyone, he exhibits the needed chemistry without fail and holds the personality of his character like it is his own. His sex appeal gets more and more intense; having such a handsome face, a sturdy build of physique, and a shrill yet gentle voice. On the other hand, Nanon Korapat did a fine job in his first BL role. At first, I was hoping for Chimon instead of Ohm but things turned out remarkable for OhmNanon who had an exquisite showpiece tandem.

I started to like the show the instant they moved to their dorms. They’re so funny and obviously they’ve been flirting with each other the whole time. Since Pran had a crush on Pat ever since they were young, the sleepover scene was painful. One-sided love really hurts like hell. Imagine being on his side and yet, he only thinks about another person (episode where Pat wants to confess to Ink). Pran has no other choice but to pretend not to be taken away by his own emotion. Thank goodness that jealousy can always be a big help for someone to realize their real feelings for the other person, pushing their romantic desire to the limit. Me, myself, am also a fan of this type of scene in which I can see the other side bursting out with envious romance.

The big shock for me was witnessing an early kissing scene. It is not just a simple touching of lips but more on eating each other's lips. The portrayal of emotion during the rooftop smooch was incredibly eminent. Prior to the kiss, it was really bad for Ohm to breath hysterically because I find it a nuisance before their intimate clip. Anyways, the after effect of the kiss drove the potential to unveil their feelings but as expected both of them are as firm as rock and didn't want to admit their feelings that took them a whole 1-2 episodes for them to be real boyfriends. Taking their time on testing the water -one is trying to stay away yet the other one chooses to pursue and even willing to enter the Lion’s den just to be able to have a chat with Pran. (Architecture volunteer camp episode)

After opening up their feelings despite being persistent, their flirting moments were really something to be envious of. The good thing about the show is how the director executed fresh new ideas of sweet sequences such as the ketchup kiss, the written statement on a tissue roll, vibing the song inside the car in the cutest possible way, etc. The amount of romantic excitement I felt every episode is more than enough to build a castle full of butterflies. Also, creative strategy of product placement, not making it too cringe and trying to push over, compared to other Thai shows. They also simulated in a mocking way the typical BL phrases like “I don’t like men, I just like you” and by calling each other as “husband & wife,” who think that romanticizing these norms will make the scene extra special. Among GMMTV’s BL works, this definitely stood as one of their quality tier shows, next to A Tale of Thousand Stars and other of my personal favorites.

The revelation episode was something that I guess for a whole week that the title “Bad Buddy” is dedicated to Wai. He didn’t deserve to be a good friend of Pran. I understand his hatred and feeling of betrayal but he’s actions were too much. Exposing them to the public is not something a real friend will do. But then again, forgiveness always creates a new path for their friendship to bloom so I bought it. Another big disclosure is the reason for Pat and Pran’s father and mother’s conflict. I think it was not a cliche idea after all since the agony of Pran’s mother is valid. She lost her chance to achieve her dream because she was betrayed by her most trusted friend who turned out to be Pat’s father. Unique and realistic revelation. If I am Pran’s mother, there is a 90% possibility that my hatred towards Pat’s dad will last forever. Especially, if that person is your neighbor -the one closest to your own home.

The actor who portrayed Wai was good at being angry but bad at conversing casually along with most of the characters in the show. They’re casual talk with friends was so awkward; wearing a forced smile and uneasy eye contacts. Nanon’s group of college friends was kind but couldn't act well (especially Louis, who I think just stood there to fill the set). Ohm group of friends was the complete opposite; can act but aren’t too kind. They are like gangsters who have a huge ego and superiority complex who can’t keep a chill whenever they see a guy from the Architecture department. The character development of Korn was likely the same with other classic semi-antagonist who started doing bad but then miraculously changed to be good for the better. But if I am to choose who will be the best supportive actor/actress in the show, I’m gonna pick the woman who got the role of being Nanon’s mother. She literally eats the dramatic house attack on her ex-best friend's house.

Lighting up the mood, we need to appreciate how Pa and Ink brought smiles to our faces all throughout their shared moments together. GL story is rarely included in a show, but their on-screen character was too fit to each other making me feel lively and attached to their pair. Ink is a demure and caring woman and Pa is the clumsy and sweet girl, perfect match for each other. The siblinghood bond of Pat and Pa was also something deserving to be praised as well.

The OST. It was a well-arranged song for a BL show in which the main character started to question himself on the feelings he had for his friend. The lyrics of “JUST FRIEND?” was so beautiful for someone who had a secret crush to his friend or even having mutual feelings but still hesitant to confess. Nanon singing it was the perfect thing, his voice was soothing to both of my ears and heart. Absolutely one of my favorite Thai soundtracks!

Okay. That was it! I enjoyed the show and that’s why it deserves a high rating.