The end of the trilogy: reasons for debate and controversy

The trilogy by Korean director Leesong Hee-il, known as 'One Night, Two Days', (백야), began with the short film 'One Night, later expanded to a 75-minute film entitled 'Baekya' ('지난여름, 갑자기 '/'White Night' and followed by the short 'Suddenly Last Summer' (지난 여름, 갑자기/'Jinanyeoreum, gapjagi'), concludes with the medium-length film 'Namjjokeuro Ganda' ('Going South' /남쪽으로 간다), all from 2012, and narrating three unconnected gay-themed stories together.
The strength of Leesong Hee-Il's cinematography, by itself, and continually, finds an audience for his works. Not only because of the naturalness and simplicity, at the same time as the complex way of exposing homosexuality and human relationships and conflicts, which allows us to reinterpret the essence of the South Korean LGBT+ collective (equally global), from the perspective of some of its representatives, but also in the elegance of the language, the cinematographic resources, the intelligence of the film narrative and the intellectual and human wisdom that flows with astonishing clarity and directness.
It is, furthermore, and above all, the director's ability to build powerful stories due to their humanism, which penetrate the personal imagination, especially of the members of said community, never to abandon it again.
Who who has seen the trilogy does not suffer as their own the desperation and anguish of a gay person who drags, like a heavy burden, the emotional and spiritual suffering, more than physical, caused by a homophobic attack and today, after years , returns to the scene of the events to continue judging the society that did nothing to condemn barbarism, only for the fact that the victim is a homosexual? Who has not wanted to be the companion of said person in the search not only for love, but also, and above all, for the necessary spiritual peace and answers that give meaning to their life, during a long, cold night in Seoul?
Who was not on the cruise ship that crosses the Han River while a boy, a minor, blackmails his teacher, 17 years older, whom he threatens to get out of the closet if he does not give in to his demands to spend a few hours on a hot day in his side? Who has not understood the dilemma in which the teacher struggles, caught between desire and responsibility, between desire and ethics, between good and evil? Who has not forgiven the student for blackmailing the teacher, after seeing him suffer and at the same time shout his love and happiness, while, excited, he talks to the fish or makes the teacher listen to his favorite music after placing the headphones over his ears? ears? Who has not made their own the suffering, pain and anguish, but also the joy and the touch of happiness, of each and every one of the characters that inhabit their stories?
'Going South' follows two men on a journey that, despite the short's title, has no defined direction or destination. Gi-Tae (Kim Jae-Heung) and Jun-Young (Chun Shin-Hwan) met during their mandatory two-year stint in the Korean army. From the first seconds, the existence of a secret to be revealed around these two people and their respective internal struggles becomes evident.
Its director once again exposes a constant dichotomy in the relationships of its protagonists, but now elevates it to a higher plane by placing its narrative heroes involved in the South Korean army. Shocking are the deeply subtle, uncomfortable, and highly problematic questions it raises about homosexual relationships, military service in particular, and that nation's society as a whole.
While Jun-Young, now demobilized, hides or completely denies his homosexuality, Gi-Tae, who still has some time left to graduate, is not afraid to acknowledge it and even enjoys celebrating it, despite completing his military service in a nation where, according to article 92 of its Military Penal Code, it considers sexual relations between members of the same sex as "sexual harassment", punishable by a maximum of one year in prison.
Jun-Young is taking Gi-Tae back to base after his last leave. The atmosphere around them is overloaded by the demands of one and the refusal of the other to give in. Jun-Young is quite harsh on his friend during the ride.
The characters in the medium-length film inhabit a space where they meet somewhere in the middle. It is at this moment that the director uses the camera lens to "steal" the characters' emotions and show human complexities.
One having realized that he does not want to continue the sexual relationship with his friend and asks him not to contact him again, the other is not willing to let him go, and clings to him. Inadvertently, the soldier takes the opportunity to put sleeping pills in Jun-Young's coffee. As soon as the drugs take effect, he takes the wheel and heads south, or nowhere in particular.
When Jun-Young finally wakes up, he is furious, but also furious is Gi-Tae, who confronts his former lover/friend about his broken promises.
The fight, both emotional and physical, reveals two aspects to consider: on the one hand, Jun-Young completely denies not only his former feelings for Gi-Tae, but also his homosexuality. Jun-Young dismisses his previous relationship, alleging that he had sexual encounters with his friend out of the need to fill the void of soldier's loneliness, something common for soldiers while doing military service.
And secondly, Gi-Tae is clearly losing control and has crossed the line. His erratic, illegal behavior is not justifiable, and yet we sympathize with him more than with Jun-Young, because his pain is so tangible.
Initially calm and serene, Gi-Tae's feelings are increasingly expressed through physical things, such as photographing Jun-Young in the middle of making love for the last time, not to blackmail him but to materially record the feelings that his lover does not want to admit with words. He subsequently gets into a wild mud fight with Jun-Young that nearly ends in blood and he drinks bottle of beer after bottle. His state of increasing intoxication leads him to dance alone like a lunatic in a dark highway tunnel, while music blares from the car speakers.
You can't blame Jun-Young for wanting to distance himself from Gi-Tae, who has major emotional issues that may run deeper than this particular rejection. And yet, one must ask: how desperate must one be to go AWOL from one's military base and nearly kidnap another person, acts that can only have serious repercussions?
Open-ended like all parts of Leesong Hee-ill's trilogy, 'Going South' feels more gloomy and suffocating than the two previous films, denying the viewer a journey towards the spiritual peace and happiness they dreamed of, at least from one of the characters.
As in the rest of the three pieces, the film tells a story of great visual and auditory beauty, but perhaps the most important thing is the emotional depth. The raw honesty of the film's narrative – centered on the often deeply problematic feelings of its characters, all asking difficult but very real questions – is commendable.
The finished compositional gear, the composition between musical form and film text brought to the screen, the treatment of time and changes in point of view, are formal innovations that demonstrate the filmmaker's vocation to always renew himself, supporting the three pieces that make up the trilogy, which reflect on the human condition, the complexities of the human being, the responsibilities and ethics of the gay man of our days, the homophobic ambushes that stalk him at every step, the feeling of emptiness caused by the so-called epidemic of loneliness gay, the emotional and mood disorders of homosexual men, the constant search for happiness, which implies, in turn, the fight for their human rights, and the encounters between the individual and the collective.

Note: The reviews of the remaining pieces of the trilogy, in MDL, can be found on the page dedicated by the virtual platform to each of them.

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Declaration of love and farewell with gay fairy tale ending

The holidays come to an end, summer says goodbye to return next year in a small fishing village in China. It is time to say goodbye to the beach, the heat, rest and, above all, to the person you love.
The camera follows the face of teenager Leaf (Xinyi He). You rush to brush your teeth and wash your face: you need to look and smell good. He has arranged to meet Qing Chen (Jianan Yang), his childhood friend, to spend the remaining days of the summer period in his company. His friend will soon leave for Shanghai to study. He also dreams of going to a university in that city or in Beijing or Guangzhou, but he must remain in the village by the sea to take care of his elderly grandmother (Xiaojing Liao). To get ahead, he has set up a small and thriving hair salon where locals flock.
The camera now "watches" Leaf and her friend from a distance. This is the way chosen by Meicen Meng, the director of the Chinese short film, 'Beyond the Green Mountain', to give visuality to the mood of the two protagonists.
That detachment that is farewell can be, perhaps, one of the most dramatic or significant moments in our history, because although sometimes goodbye can be accompanied by an optimistic undertone because it implies closing one story to open another, the emotionality is It appears through our tear ducts at the fact of seeing a person leave without being able to do anything other than observe how their silhouette fades with each step, before the uncertainty of not knowing if we will see them again in another chapter of our existence.
The faces of the two boys cannot be seen, since it is night and they are now positioned with their backs to the lens, while they talk about dreams, desires, the opportunities they could find to study or live in big cities, philosophical beliefs, gods. and goodbye.
The camera follows Qing Chen who can finally show his beautiful face. In order to reveal his repressed feelings and with unshed tears, he arrives at the doors of Leaf's humble house, but he does not dare to knock. It is evident that she needs to bring out all those hidden emotions that she keeps inside and tell them to the boy who is now back at her side, but her grandmother prevents this by inviting the visitor to dinner.
This film, made by queer people for queer people, breaks the patriarchal binary lens that has been dominating world cinema, to tell us how these two young people, who have known each other since they were children, merge in glances of fascination in each encounter, and they have been filling that void that haunts their lives, because it could not be without the presence of the other.
Although in more than one moment it seems that they are going to take the next step, it never happens, so the only thing they have left is to wait to say goodbye to the imminent departure of one of them.
Later, as they lie in bed, they look at each other's faces in the dark, but they don't dare to state their feelings explicitly, but Qing Chen expresses them subtly: "I will never be able to see so many stars in Shanghai." His words would rather say: "In another place, far from you, I will only find infinite darkness. You are the light of my life."
The film tells a story of pure first love through a pure narrative about these young characters who fall in love without realizing that loving each other romantically is even a possibility. However, feelings don't lie. To an untrained heart, these feelings are overwhelming. Confusion, doubts, insecurity and pain form a dark subtext. Love is pure, tender, sweet and beautiful, that is why the young Chinese director seeks to represent how love shines through the darkness that represents a goodbye or the two lovers being separated.
There are two days left until the farewell. Leaf, sitting on the beach, takes Qing Chen's diary, left by him in the sand. Unaware of his action, he is about to discover his most intimate secrets, but Qing Chen snatches it from his hands at the last moment, before hurting him to the depths of his being: "The damn villagers have no manners." He cannot express his regret for the hurtful words. Leaf doesn't give him time and runs away with tears of pain.
In this story about youth, friendship and love that blossoms in the summer breeze, the camera focuses again on Leaf's face as she brushes her teeth and washes her face the morning before saying goodbye. The ritual now will not be to reunite with Qing Chen. Perhaps the objective is to make visible the necessary act of releasing from within you the sadness that still persists and is reflected on your face. The bond between the two cannot end this way.
But he does not pay attention to the complaints of his friend, who persists in asking for forgiveness, when there are only a few hours left before leaving on his trip.
"I'm leaving tomorrow morning. How long will this childish tantrum of yours last?" Qing Chen confronts him. As they roll on the floor in a silly fight, a passionate kiss surprises them. They hug each other tightly. Their bodies orbit around each other. They would like time to stop. But Leaf reacts and abruptly separates. What will grandma think if she knows that I love another boy? How will she face the neighbors? Will she still be proud of me?
The next morning, Qing Chen, as if he were a sleepwalker who has not been able to sleep a wink all night, crawls towards the car in which his parents are waiting to take him to Shanghai. Almost about to get on it, a scream from Leaf stops him. In silence, the boy forcefully draws towards him the body of his former friend and now lover, and they passionately embrace.
With a beautiful Chinese landscape as a backdrop, the farewell between the character of Xinyi He and Jianan Yang is capable of causing a lump in our throat because of how significant it is that these lovers have had the opportunity to say goodbye and express their love, although it was the same way they communicated it throughout the film: through silence, gestures, emotions and looks.
Qing Chen's parents, a few meters away and who can't even see each other inside the car, will never know what the boys said to each other in that silent hug. Only they will know.
The piece, only 15 minutes long, reminds us that, regardless of aesthetic issues, filmmakers can resort to a powerful tool: our need to understand what we see, regardless of the language or the articulated word.
Throughout the film, which is nothing more than an immense and constant declaration of love, Meicen Meng weaves a visually evocative narrative that captures the internal struggle of the two characters in their struggle to discover and accept themselves, while exploiting our emotions by giving us perhaps one of the most iconic farewells of the seventh art.
With a powerful and healing representation of the community building inherent to the film's creation process, the filmmaker also explores emotions and universal intimate human connections, using characters traditionally little seen in world cinematography, such as two teenagers from a fishing village, who dream of loving and empowering themselves through studies and the realization of their professional and work dreams.
Perhaps much of the charm of this film lies in the fact that despite the palpable romance of the protagonists, at no point do they manage to consummate their love, not even at the moment of farewell, however, it underlies, latent, perceptible, in each scene. .
The internationally renowned Chinese queer cinema knows perfectly well how dramatic the farewell act can mean. That's why Meicen Meng, the award-winning non-binary filmmaker of that nationality, wrote, directed and produced her thesis film 'Beyond The Green Mountain', to address topics such as sexuality, love, self-acceptance and identity.
Due to its ethical and aesthetic values, it was chosen as one of the five finalists of the prestigious 2018 Coppola Short Film Competition by Gus Van Sant, a queer filmmaker of great international fame.
The film also screened at the Museum of the Moving Image as part of the First Look Film Festival and was the winner of the Best Indie Short award at the Indie Short Fest in July 2019, among many other awards.
In this captivating cinematographic journey that explores in such a beautiful way the emotional labyrinths of its protagonists, humanity and human connections, it concludes with a dreamy and hopeful Leaf who directs her sight towards the sea, beyond the mountain that gives it its title. to the movie, as if he were looking into the future, before turning his face when he hears approaching footsteps, and drawing a smile on his lips: everything seems to indicate that his beloved is returning and, finally, they will be able to open themselves fully to love .
We generally associate goodbyes with the outcome of a story, and in most cases this is the case. However, 'Beyond the Green Mountain' goes to the other extreme and in the final scene conveys hope, the idea of ​​a shared future between our heroes. The comforting and tender fact of seeing each other once again contains a message: they both know that they will have a fairy tale ending.
I hope my review serves to motivate the viewer to see a film so recommended for its exquisite narrative and visuality.

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THE FADING OF THE DAY INTO TWILIGHT IS NOT THE END, BUT THE BEGINNING OF LIFE AND LOVE

'Last Twilight' is a coming-of-age story of self-discovery that will surprise and excite you through the two young protagonists, played by Jitaraphol Potiwihok (Jimmy) as Mork, and Tawinan Anukoolprasert (Sea) as Day, whom we have already seen leading the cast artistic of “Viceversa” and “Our Skyy 2”. With this, their third leading role, the young actors seek to consolidate themselves as a ship within GMM25.
Written and directed by Noppharnach Chaiwimol (Aof), renowned director, screenwriter, producer and actor who has dramas such as 'My School Presidente' and 'Moonlight Chicken', both from 2023, among others, presents us with a story that not only seeks to make LGBTQ+ people visible, but also seeks to represent blind and visually impaired people, as well as the reintegration of the individual into society after spending time in prison.
Has Aof realized the dramatic potential of blindness and visual impairment to bring us a story on the subject? The social image of blind people has gone through different phases and, to a certain extent, has overcome the usual negative and stereotypical attitudes. Television is also responsible for the perceived public image of disability. Therefore, the representation of blind people in television programs contributes to the general perception that society has of this group.
Will it be Day's destiny to inspire pity, compassion and marginalization? Will the story focus on his struggle to overcome his limitations? Will the series revolve around the facet of his rehabilitation from a hopeful perspective? Is it intended to offer the image of a person who rehabilitates himself and lives a life that tries to get closer to the most normal that his circumstances allow? Will a story prevail in which the blind character seeks social integration? How to make a story with these characteristics, when in current filmography it is rare to see the person with a disability like any other person? Isn't it due to the fact that audiovisual productions show disability as a medical issue rather than from a social perspective? How to succeed in the process?
Aof has drawn on the changes produced in the way visual disability is represented in film and television. He also knows how society has evolved in its understanding of disability.
Taking all of the above into account, it would be appropriate to ask ourselves: to what extent does the series portray a blind character from a positive perspective? To what extent does it represent, and therefore promote, the progressive inclusion of visually impaired people in society? Is one of the purposes of 'Last Twilight' to contribute to enhancing the general perception that society has of disability? Does Day have a fully developed personality or is her character fundamentally defined by her disability? Does the series reflect Day's character as a unique and distinctive personality or is his disability the main focus of the plot? Is Day's personality unique because his character expresses the desire for independence and not wanting to be pitied?
What is Day's level of inclusion in the community? (considering that this includes areas such as inclusive education, employment, residential environment, community participation, recreation and social activities). What are Day's interpersonal relationships like with the people around him? Will your character move away from the stereotypes with which the visually impaired have been reflected in film and television?
TECHNICAL-ARTISTIC ASSESSMENT
Aof makes a triumphant return behind the cameras to create an entertaining product that had a sufficient dose of credibility in its cast for this plot to revolve between cold and warmth, between detachment and tenderness, suffering and illusion, discouragement. and optimism, darkness and light, although the viewer can, at times, decipher the story for themselves, including the final twist. I don't even doubt that this is one of the reasons why 'Last Twilight' is watchable and enjoyable. It is in its own way dreamy, in its own way hopeful, thanks to Jimmy and Sea's chemistry and the questions it seeks to answer.
With a pair of irresistible protagonists and a straightforward love-overcomes-adversity story, 'Last Twilight' hits the spot for the BL fan market. Others will also be able to enjoy it. Aof tries to fight for the desire that his work show a universal feeling, that knows no genres, and is close to anyone.
Although present, sex is not the mainstay of the relationship. Instead, Aof highlights looks, words, silences, gestures as a connection of feelings. In this sense, the series moves away from a common cliché in gay-themed cinema, which rarely seems concerned with delving into the emotions of its characters from a perspective that does not necessarily imply an immediate sexual attraction.
Without superficialities or exaggerated fuss, 'Last Twilight' tells a romance without causing discomfort and trying to find a universality that brings it closer to a majority audience. The series will touch the hearts of many people because it comes with a suggestive and different narrative when we talk about love stories and gender issues.
The mixture of captivating fiery and total trust between the two men is represented in the photograph, totally serene and at the same time always active, but very subjective.
There is no doubt: the public is faced with an irrefutable fairy tale that can win many followers due to the lyrical way of capturing the concerns of youth. Its episodic rhythm allows us to easily access this story about identity and sacrifices, about breakups and reunions, about pain and hopes.
The series cleverly emphasizes the sensual aspects of a coming-of-age story. Strokes of humor, tearfulness, self-improvement, sacrifice and fantasy give a welcome texture to the softness of the romantic novel. Audiovisual in general works despite its formulaic layout and loose ends.
This ambitious series, well shot, without shame, manages to maintain the charm of a plot made to please lovers of the genre. Premiered on November 10, 2023, the entertainment production company is committed to continuing to be a pioneer and leader in the creation of BL series, both originals and adaptations, with 'Last Twilight'.
Also in its good work with the cast, in addition to the aforementioned leading actors, Aof has other well-known faces in the company, such as Tipnaree Weerawatnodom (Namtan), as Phojai, Mohk's ex-girlfriend and friend; Pakin Kunaanuwit (Mark), as Nigh, Day's brother; Premsinee Ratanasopa (Cream), as Ramon, Day's mother; Thipakorn Thitathan (Ohm), as August, Day's sports partner and first love interest; Rachanun Mahawan (Film), as Gee, Day's friend and badminton partner, Kunchanuj Kengkarnka (Kun), as On, Day's friend and also a blind person, among others.
The series follows the love story of a young athlete who has lost his sight after suffering a traffic accident, and his caregiver. When Mhok, burdened by debt, agrees to be the caretaker of a blind boy named Day, they will both know true love. The two characters maintain a complex relationship, since each one is tied to a problematic reality.
The protagonists of this youth drama that promises and at times declines with a predictable course of events, brim with charisma. The story, which could have been told better, has plenty of heart. I would criticize him for saying that he is rich and he is poor, because to political correctness it would seem like just another melodrama.
Not exempt from melodramatic clichés, the program is original. Its director avoids the pitfalls of the typical audiovisual production of homosexual initiation, and presents us with a beautiful and tender story that will inevitably make you fall in love. Mohk and Day's relationship demonstrates that many people in the LGBT+ community are united by their sexuality, but they are also united by love, and it is a love that they have fought for and won.
Playing on the series' title and the name of one of its two protagonists, contrary to the fading of day into twilight, the effervescent nature of young love is deftly captured in 'Last Twilight'.

PLOT
Day, a player on the Thai national youth badminton team, has begun to lose his sight after suffering a traffic accident. Faced with the impossibility of having a normal life, he accepts Mohk as his caregiver because he senses that Mohk does not feel sorry for him. As the young people begin to get to know each other and get closer, Day will know that in approximately 180 days he will lose his vision completely.
Day considers that his disability represents a burden on his family and society, as he is unable to take care of himself. Hence the need to have care personnel and supervision by a psychic. He believes himself incapable of living a successful life. That is why he permanently abandons his studies and sports, and withdraws from his friends, from whom he hides his blindness.
Day has been rejecting all of his previous caregivers, because he does not want a person by his side who treats him like a sick person and feels sorry for him. After losing much of his vision and thus his autonomy, Day begins to treat everyone with disdain and turns his warm and kind personality into a colder and more distant one. He practically lives locked in his room and maintains contact only with his mother, on whom he is very dependent, his brother and his friend On. He blames Night for the tragedy he experiences. He will meet his father, as he divorced his mother when Day was still a child and was raised without his father's presence.
“I don't know what he looks like, all I know is that Mohk is the only one who doesn't feel sorry for me. “It doesn't make me feel like a disabled person,” says the character played by Sea to those close to him, while Mohk reads him the novel that gives the series its title and they strengthen ties.
That's why Day opts for the mechanic who was involved in a fight and just got out of jail after serving a one-year sentence for a misdemeanor. He will hide the fact that he has a criminal record and that is why he cannot find work in his profession.
Mohk will understand the challenges that a blind person faces.
This is how Mohk will initially become Day's mentor, guide and protector. He understands, like no other person around him, his need to relate to the physical and social world. It teaches you techniques to orient yourself and move in space, as well as to acquire habits of personal autonomy. His primary priority is for Day to know and accept his visual situation. For this, communication and complicity between the two is vital. He judges that Day needs empathy from his peers, above all.
His eyes are going to be Day's eyes. Your voice gives you confidence. Mohk will be in charge of creating soundscapes that will allow Day to imagine the world around him. Their hands, intertwined or attached to the rope as they run, create an imperceptible route that Day automatically makes his own.
Mohk is the first to discover that he is in love, but he keeps his love a secret. Some of the reasons why Day may feel insecure about himself will be the same reasons why Mohk begins to love him.
This relationship will be tested when August, Day's friend, reappears and enters his life once again. The dormant feelings are reborn and Day will confess to Mohk that he has had feelings for his sports partner for a long time. Initially, the caretaker will help Day chase August, but August will end up recognizing that he sees Day as just a friend.
That's when Mohk will confess his love, but Day is still heartbroken. It needs time to heal. The bonds between the two protagonists will continue to strengthen as one cares and the other grows as a person, until Day finally opens up to love. Physical attraction will soon turn into a deeper emotional bond.
From two different worlds, although, at first glance, they do not seem to be the most suitable person for each other, little by little they will get along until they forge a friendship as solid as it is unexpected. This will give way to an unusual love relationship that makes sparks fly and light up the night.
Mohk would become to Day the same as the rose to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's little prince: although it resembles the other roses in every way, his rose is unique because he has chosen it. And like the fox in that novel, it will allow itself to be “tamed” by its caretaker. Mohk will take responsibility for what he has tamed, while Day will take responsibility for his rose. The strategy used will be the same one proposed by the fox. They will sit on the floor at first a little far from each other. They will look at each other out of the corner of their eyes and say nothing. But every day they will be able to sit a little closer...
By domesticating it, then, they need each other. Mohk will be unique to Day, while Day will be unique in the world to Mohk. This is how Day will come to understand that happiness must be understood as a reward and not as an end. As the main character in 'The Little Prince', Day will understand that no one is ever happy where they are.
Mohk will be someone capable of taking care of everyone, not just Day. She recovers her sister's car, her only legacy when she died, and defends Pohjai from her abusive boyfriend and gives her shelter in her house. He will take care of her unborn child. Meanwhile, he will find work as a chef to prove that he can protect Day. Pohjai will become an accomplice in the passion shared by these two boys.
For Mohk there will only be one situation in which he feels unable to help his lover: he cannot save Day from completely losing her vision. Day will compensate, if it can be said that way, for his dedication and love, choosing his face as the last thing he sees before being totally blind. Mohk will cry out of rage and helplessness at not being able to help him under these circumstances. However, their destinies will be inextricably linked forever.
The trite phrase “love at first sight” has no place in the relationship between the mechanic turned caregiver and the blind athlete. In matters of love, the first has more experiences, while the second is a self-conscious person because, on the one hand, he has never been able to see the face of the boy he loves, and on the other, this is his first love experience, which he would have to add that the same is with a man.
The two characters are totally different, but that won't stop them from loving each other. In addition to the differences in social classes, one of them is still suffering from disappointment in love, while the other, a heterosexual boy who is very popular with women, is not happy because he has not been able to find the right person. They both need to regain the strength of love.
As they find love in each other, Day also gains independence, gaining self-confidence. That pathetic and pitiful person who believed that because of his disability he would be incapable of living a successful life, ceases to exist. In other words, stop being your own worst enemy. Smile again. Little by little, his bitterness will give way to joy and the desire to see all the sunrises.
But Day will face a dilemma: would he allow a beloved, free-spirited person like Mohk to end up tied to a disabled person? Was I being selfish? Wouldn't the right thing be to let him go so he can live his life without a burden like he is? “You want to push me aside even knowing that I love you. Grab your dreams and live them with me. Don't let them survive us,” is the message from Mohk, who sadly sees how the boy he loves abandons him. Will they travel different paths? Will the same love separate them? Will Day understand the meaning of the phrase “What is essential is invisible to the eye,” said by the fox to the little prince?

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New trend: forming a main couple with star actors in JDramas?

When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. And when life finally offers insecure and hesitant rookie actor Yuki Shirasaki (Taisuke Niihara) an important role in a television drama in which he must portray a homosexual character in a relationship with popular actor Asami Hayama (Komagine Kiita) as co-star , and given his inexperience in love, he decides to make the best of the situation... looking for a real experience.
This is how he goes to a gay bar with the aim of finding someone to sleep with to experience a full-fledged apprenticeship and to be able to incorporate the emotions acquired into the character to embody. There, he meets Hayama, his co-star in the television series, a superstar in the world of entertainment and modeling, who in college shared the same film study club with him.
How will Shirasaki react when Hayama offers him his body? What will happen between the kōhai and inexperienced in matters of love Shirasaki when the senpai Hayama proposes to form a "romantic relationship for the sake of character development" until filming concludes? What will happen between these two very different people when filming ends?
And, while Shirasaki gets to go through a lot of fake "official first moments" with Hayama—her first real kiss, her first real date, her first sexual encounter, her first role in a television series, her first leading role in a non-theatrical play or his "first coming out", he is surprised that among the lies, emotions flourish, feelings grow and they fall in love. In other words: what seems like a solid plan soon turns into emotional chaos that will lead them to…
The series raises questions about the nature of falling in love (is it a pure matter of instant chemistry or a difficult process of adaptation to the other?), the transition to adulthood and the acceptance of sexual identity.
Based on the manga series "25:00, in Akasaka" by Natsuno Hiroko ('25ji, Akasaka de' / 25時、赤坂で), first published on November 24, 2018 by Shodensha, the action adaptation real with the same name, is directed by Horie Takahiro ('Death Kyun Loop Wa Tomaranai!) and Kawasaki Ryo ('Minato Shouji Coin Laundry Season 2' and 'My Strawberry Film').
Based on a script written by Aso Kumiko, known for writing the script for 'Inochi Aru Kagiri Tataka e, So Shite Iki Nukunda', throughout the plot and the false courtship, the characters discover that love can arise even in the terrain of deception. The viewer might think that this is a classic tender story framed in a romantic comedy-drama, but in reality, it is full of script twists that exceed any expectations.
From the TV Tokyo channel, the series seeks to capture the audience with a formula that combines humor, drama and love through a pseudo-romantic relationship that off-screen leads to a touching and beautifully crafted love story that explores the complexities of relationships within the entertainment industry and between actors.
The cast is reinforced by renowned figures from Japanese cinema and television such as Takuma Usa, a figure known for his participation in other romantic dramas such as 'Kiss x Kiss x Kiss: Love ii Shower', 'Kiss × Kiss × Kiss: Melting Night' and 'Cool Doji Danshi'. Accompanying Usa in supporting roles is Shoma Nagumo, from 'Kiss x Kiss x Kiss: Love ii Shower' and 'Minato Shouji Coin Laundry'. The cast is completed with Atsushi Hashimoto, who began his acting career in 2004 in the film 'Water Boys 2'; Moemi Katayama, actress who in 2019 played the character of Kohiruimaki Himeko in the romantic series 'Ossan's Love: In the Sky', and Shinohara Yushin, known for his intervention in the film 'We Couldn't Become Adults', who together contribute memorable performances. It is, truly, a luxury cast.
I wonder: Will there come a time when they stop pretending that they are a couple and make it known that they ARE a couple? Will the student be a good apprentice to the sensei?
If someone asked me: What is so special about the series?, I would answer:
- Shows the non-stereotypical or stigmatized image of the homosexual man and same-sex relationships with the purpose of achieving significant changes in the conservative, patriarchal and heteronormative Japanese society.
- The right decision to make the main couple with two acting stars, since Japanese romantic dramas of the LGBT+ genre usually pair a popular, experienced actor with one less known to the public. Apparently, producers and creators of the genre are seeking to implement a new trend, if we take into account that in the recently concluded 'Sukiyanen Kedo Dou Yaro ka' (2024) they also paired two experienced actors who enjoy great popularity, such as Kan Hideyoshi and Nishiyama Jun.
- The use of monologue through which the characters define their traits and the audience can get to know their most intimate thoughts without the need for a narrator to intervene.
- The respect, passion and sincerity of the members of the artistic-technical teams to the original work.
- The forced plot does not take away from the magic of a leading couple that brims with chemistry and dialogues that manage to convey more than one substantial reflection.
- The two protagonists are very funny in this drama with characters that one represents maturity and experience and the other "first-time" naivety in all areas, both in love and sexual matters to those concerning his work as a novice actor.
- Although the script presents the same tricks as many other series of the genre, the truth is that '25ji, Akasaka de' has shares of originality in the evolution and outcome of the plot.
- The value of friendship, of the camaraderie of coworkers and students to help the two protagonists manage the complex emotions that will accompany them throughout the plot, focused on building the love relationship of Shirasaki and Hayama , their successful participation in a television series, and that both discover their authentic selves.
- Taisuke Niihara and Komagine Kiita play a seemingly impossible couple who will have to force themselves to have an initially non-existent chemistry, because they are unknown people chosen in a casting to play two protagonists of a television drama.
- The disturbing innocence of the entire approach.
- The purity of characters who grow without "corrupting", clinging to their first loves and unusual experiences on a film set.
- Its light narrative and good performances hook you from the first frame, making it a fun series.
- A series with a concept developed and outlined as a drama and not as a comedy.
- '25ji, Akasaka de' shows a series of circumstances that could hardly happen to its characters, always maintaining the premise that dramatic moments in real life are usually interspersed with humorous moments.
- The creators wanted there to be a certain honesty in the script and that the actors did not have to react intentionally to the planned moments of humor.
- With the dosage of humor and a choreography of gestures that also extends to intelligent and elegant compositions of shots, those responsible for the series achieve the very complicated task of getting each of the decisions made right.
- The music, the smoothness of the camera movements, the ease of provoking different emotions in the viewer and the palpable complicity of a well-rounded cast make the experience of the episodes something special.
- A series that from the pilot episode captivates the viewer and the illusion that the balance is not lost and those responsible are overcome in the following chapters full of disparate occurrences and interesting situations.
- The idea of ​​a closing with a delicate and tender musical sweep.
- Having two directors with extensive experience in the world of entertainment, whose experiences also as writers combined with the skill and vast writing craft of the accredited screenwriter could perfectly outline both the narrative discourse and the staging or production.

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No wonder they are the happiest Thai actors today. It cannot be any other way: after two series forming a ship that attracts millions of viewers, Thitipong Sangngey and Wasuthorn Chaijindar (FortPeat, as they are known) finally star in a series, the one they always dreamed of, and the one we have waited for BL lovers in general and followers of these two actors in particular.
Yes, we already saw him lead the cast of 'Love in The Air' (2022), but there they were the secondary couple, while in 'Wedding Plan' (2023) they played roles of little weight in the story and little presentation on screen. On both occasions they left us wanting more.
The opportunity to show off their acting skills, their beautiful faces and physical attributes comes from Ne Neti Suwanjinda, the director who has always chosen them to put them in front of the camera since the entertainment industry, very intelligently and correctly, paired them, to tell us the love story between Tongrak, a writer looking for inspiration for his most recent novel, and Mahasamut, a resident of an island in the south of Thailand who was tasked with taking care of the visitor.
In the first two episodes of the series (those that have been viewed for this review), the protagonists will find themselves trapped in a stormy, fiery and sensual relationship full of sex and endless days and nights, where love will set the course of their lives new lives while both fight to achieve their respective dreams.
'Love Sea' is a new-adult dramatic and romantic series with an aspirational LGBTIQ+ theme narrated in a dynamic, vibrant way and with a realistic treatment of the most current youth conflicts, all accompanied by beautiful and cheerful music and exquisite cinematography.
Based on the novel of the same name by prolific BL MAME screenwriter and director Orawan Vichayawannakul, whom Net called on now as on other occasions, the series tells the spectacular and improbable story of Tongrak (played by Peat) and Mut (role assumed by Fort), two young dreamers with nothing in common, whose destinies cross unexpectedly.
Tongrak has it all, a good financial position and enjoys success after publishing several novels, some of them brought to television as BL series. But despite this, he lives in a state of constant frustration caused by several unresolved problems in his life and by currently suffering from writer's block. Furthermore, he does not believe in love, considering that it only lives in the imagination.
The journey of Peat's character is the most interesting one made, since in his contact with Mut we can see his reproach for being ashamed of his past and the wounds of his soul that have yet to heal. Thus, the creation of Tongrak and its motivations are very interesting and gain the public's favor.
For his part, Mut is a humble young man, who carries the trauma caused by having been expelled from home by his father at the age of 15 and, despite having to resort to pretending about himself to others in order to make his way in life and get a roof over his head and a plate of food, he has become a leader of the locals and the force behind the local people.
Each one, in their own way, faces an existential crisis that can lead them to failure, to lose what they have achieved so far, so they have no choice but to join forces and embark on the same path that will lead them to know each other better and perhaps...
United by destiny, when their lives intersect, they embark on a transformative journey together that represents both an escape from their complicated presents and traumatic pasts and a search for love, happiness and their place in the world. These are questions that almost all of us have experienced, or on which almost all of us have reflected, at some point in our lives. Especially in our twenties, which is the age that Mut and Tongrak are around, and the time when doubts about our present and our future are most crowded.
For her part, MAME cannot hide her happiness. Although at first his style left us with some red flags, such as 'Love By Chance' or 'TharnType', today he seems to have found his voice by giving an evolution to his stories to keep fans of the genre happy, especially with that HOT touch that all BL fans love.
The ForthPeak junction, a visual and spiritual gift for so many viewers around the world, would give good returns to the creators of the series, especially through a drama that has its main strength in the clarity with which this story is conceived on paper, the pulse with which the direction channels them through the setting on screen, and the way the two actors defend it, in characters with characterological richness and infinite nuances that only they know how to add in their assumption.
One of the great things about 'Love Sea', and one that the production team cared a lot about, was showing the paradisiacal environment and the natural settings that serve as the setting for the erotic-existential journey of two young people in love and that provide truth and essence, because if there is a place that wins by a landslide, it is that southern Thai island, the meeting place of the protagonists and where their romance takes place. Having been able to record in that place is one of the great achievements of the drama, since it is integrated in an outstanding way into its DNA.
'Love Sea' effectively combines the conventions of the romantic genre and a fresh visuality by placing the narrative heroes in a natural and paradisiacal environment, which also takes center stage, to which is added the bill of the presentation and farewell, and the curtains of Transition.
So far, the performance of actresses and actors has been, in general, high, and the combination of young figures with other already established ones was among the most successful. It was especially appreciated to once again enjoy Forth Kashane Pichetsopon, Ja Phachara Suansri, Boss Chaikamon Sermsongwittaya, Noeul Nuttarat Tangwai, An Oliver Poupart, Jinjuta Rujirakumthonchai Liu, Ivy Phattaree Tassananakajit and Chanya Amarit Duval. Kevin Tray will provide his voice as Conner.
The best thing about the MAME-Net binomial's staging lies in its way of capturing the love and physical contact between Mut and Tongrak, materialized in the hugs, kisses and sex they share in different situations: at the bottom of the ocean , on board a moving yacht or during their sexual encounters both on the sand of the beach and in the resort room, where the eyes, lips, hands... the entire body of one travels over the body of the other and vice versa. The latent desire between them is subtly filmed through gestures and glances, which communicate everything that is not expressed verbally. But how much is there left to express when in one way or another everything has been said... or almost everything?
The direction knows how to give credibility to the sex scenes and the dialogues exhibit enough youthful nihilism and naturally.
Fort and Peat consolidate themselves as a ship with great aspirations to continue being one of the most anticipated by the public, and as two actors with attitudes in abundance after 'Wedding Plan' or especially 'Love in the Air'. Their respective Mut and Tongrak work from the beginning because of their talent and also because their characters' status as people called to surpass themselves gives them the strength to stand out dramatically.

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'The Rebound' exudes sensuality in a love and sports triangle

Beyond the media hype, the posters and trailers that teased a sensual love triangle between Ping Krittanun Aunchananun (who plays the naive but combative Zen) and Meen Nichakoon Khajornborirak (as the problematic Ryu), the truth is that it is difficult to imagine that a BL series set in the world of basketball is so sexy, addictive and exciting.
This is the umpteenth work by the acclaimed filmmaker Golf Tanwarin Sukkhapisit, who has already left half measures and whose productions, in the coming of age category, have become a success, especially after the commotion caused by Great Sapol Assawamunkong and Inn Sarin Ronnakiat in 'Wandee Goodday'.
'The Rebound' is like a basketball game in which much more is at stake than a sports award or a university scholarship, and throughout the series we will discover what it entails. Masterfully, its creators dose the information to continually keep us on the edge of our seats, wanting to know more, spying on each key scene in the characters' lives, anticipating each of their movements and adjusting our expectations to each revelation, precisely, as if we were playing. a basketball game.
The writers choose a non-linear narrative, through flashbacks placed with the precision of a three-point basket from the semicircle. Each one explores the lives of the two protagonists until they separated and how each of their choices influences the present, in which many things happen at the same time. This is a series that uses racconto intelligently, that is not afraid of fragmented narrative and the possibility of narrating the past from the present.
What is disputed on the playing field is not only the love between the boys or sporting success, but the honesty between two lifelong friends who have feared to accept each other in their completeness and this led them to confront their own contradictions. Although at first reading it may seem that sexuality is what gets in the way of this friendship, in reality it is precisely the repression of sexual desire that triggers all conflicts.
'The Rebound' grows with each new revelation, and, like a good basketball game, the excitement of reaching the middle of the series at the time of writing this review comes from unraveling everything that happened before and how it will affect the tension further. forward. For this reason, and for the excellent staging and the conviction of the actors with their characters, we can enjoy the audiovisual without having to find more meaning than the apparent one.
The series is partially superficial (although not empty), and doesn't tell you more than what its premise suggests, and that's a very good thing. It is a series about basketball, repressed desire and first love, the one that we make possible to be the only one or, failing that, the one that remains alive in our memories for a lifetime. It is also about how the two protagonists can finally accept each other in all their fullness.
It also touches on human fragility and man's struggle for survival and improvement. As Ryu puts it: "Basketball taught us to love others, and helped us love ourselves."
In that, the series is similar to a basketball game, or the very act of playing it: playing it always means the same thing, with the same rules and assumptions, but the how is what matters most, the how is infinite. 'The Rebound' says little, but it says it very well, and Suthipong Teerasakul, the director of photography, plays an important role in this.
For our sake, the style of the series is very Tanwarin Sukkhapisit: carefully crafted shots, current pop music and some hip hop at full volume, characters reacting impulsively, the tandem between pleasure and restriction, desire and taboo. There is no restricted and subtle eroticism, quite the opposite.
The director lets the scenes with greater erotic tension last longer than necessary, she films them with fixed angles, quite stable shots, with a certain fixation on symmetry and a rigid composition. Beautify sex.
The MeenPing ship, in its best series, immerses us in a story that shows the codes of the explosive and popular sport of basketball and also a story full of moments of sexual tension, love, self-discovery and acceptance.
Meen and Ping have created a dream couple over time. It must be taken into account that they have been developing a stable relationship on a professional level for more than four years, starring in two previous series: 'Ai Long Nhai' (2020) and My Dear Gangster Oppa' (2023). This has allowed greater rapport and comfort in the performances. They have proven to be two actors who constantly renew themselves, who reinvent themselves for the public. The peculiar way of expressing themselves in front of the cameras makes them icons for BL lovers.
The non-binary Thai director did not disappoint. We are also not afraid to affirm that this could become one of the most acclaimed series by the public and critics of 2024. In each pass of the ball, in each shot on the basket, in each new quarter period of ten minutes each, in each trip from the camera in a subjective position (as if the viewer were a ball) we know that chaos is imminent.
First let's put ourselves in context. The story begins in 2024, and moves to the rhythm of a basketball game, with each pass to the past to introduce us to the lives of the two protagonists, and back to the present time. That is why we must also go back two or three years, just when Ryu and Zen were part of a school team in that sport, but they separated for reasons that little by little the viewer will come to know.
The objective behind the musical choice, in which the music composed by MAIYARAP for the series stands out, especially his single "The Rebound", was clearly to show the dynamism behind the simple fact that five players try to score a ball as long as an equal number of people try to avoid it: there is power, there is action, but not only that, the soundtrack is destined to make it very clear to us that, in their world, basketball players are true rock stars.
It is possible to feel it when Ryu enters the playing field, confident and imposing; but also every time Zen and Ryu's gazes meet; in scenes of street or school games, or in training, with those beats that put our hearts into overdrive.
Despite not being a protagonist, Frank Thanatsaran Samthonglai occupies a fundamental place in the story, because in this love triangle, the explosion to which we are exposed does not work without its three points.
The arc of Atom, his character, is to be able to be close to the boy who works part-time as a waiter or delivery man, precisely in a cafe run by the director of the series. If Ruy can't stay away from Zen, Atom can't stay away from him either.
Despite being the third wheel, it is not possible to hate him. Firstly, because by playing on a team opposite to that of the protagonists, when he prepares desserts with Zen's grandmother or emerges half-naked from the pool, he is a Greek god. It is impossible to watch him on the screen in a character that we are not used to seeing among those he usually plays and not feel complete admiration; secondly because it seems he alone pulled the strings so that Zen and Ryu finally looked at the tangible sexual tension that always existed between them and made the latter finally open up to love. In short, its role is to be a catalyst for romance between the protagonists. That brings us to the next point.
The small details of queer coding, like true works of art, present in every frame in which the protagonists are, and the obvious sexual tension of this pair of friends. Let's start with the opening scene, in which Ryu, fleeing from some pursuers, bumps into Zen on the street and both, after meeting again after a while, run with complicity and desire in their eyes despite the danger.
From here on, the constant and incisive flashbacks will reveal a very intimate relationship between Ryu and Zen, lost in time, when in the showers, after a match, naked, both share what, without a doubt, is the most homoerotic scene in the game. year: one applies soap to the other's body and vice versa, and in a moment they look at each other, their eyes show desire, passion, love. They bring their faces closer, and about to kiss, Ryu pushes Zen away a little roughly, after having activated all the alarms of straight cis men.
His reaction is logical: Ryu, the street basketball player, is confused and hesitates to admit his feelings for Zen, the team captain.
This will not be the only scene, as there will be frequent exchanges of glances on and off the court that will increase the sexual tension, evidenced in the contact of their hands, which are continuous and consecutive as is that of the hands of players with the ball, confront each other for possession of the ball or share attempts to score points through shots, drives to baskets or dunks, while trying to avoid baskets from the opposing team by stealing the ball or making blocks, or when a shot towards the basket fails, and they must try to catch the rebound, as will the players of the opposing team.
Not to mention the scene when Zen looks at Ryu full of love and desire while demanding an explanation of why he abandoned him some time ago or asks him, regarding basketball, if he is going to allow someone, for money, to have to say if they have to win or lose a game, or when they travel, one close to the other's back, on a motorcycle, with one's arms surrounding the waist of the driver, which will make us remember other BL series, such as ' My Ride'.
Or the scene in which they listen to music sitting on the school roof and then run like children – as if the world, or anyone else, mattered – and they merge not only in a hug, but also in a suggestive twist of body, one very close to each other, or when they also hug on the landing of an abandoned building while fleeing from the police who are chasing them for participating in a clandestine game, since Ryu is being forced to go against his will to pay a debt.
The important thing about reviewing these scenes is that they also talk about a neuralgic topic: toxic masculinity, but also about friendship and real love, despite everything.
It is evident that all this happens with a well-defined objective: there would not be a story to tell if they had assumed the love that united them, that same love that led them to separate, to competition and toxic rivalry, to get involved in a species of love-hate-and love again relationship. Only Golf could make basketball look sexy in a series.
Later, when Zen is surprised by Ryu when he accepts being one of the new players on the school team that is in danger of being dissolved, and decides to risk everything on the field - even the ultimate consequences to achieve his dreams, which were initially that of obtaining a scholarship that allows him to get out of poverty and help his grandmother in her old age, now it will be that of both of us being champions side by side on the same team – he also manages to become the Greek hero that we didn't know we were looking for .
On the other hand, and this is the true message that we want to rescue from this series: Real love also allows camaraderie, vulnerability and competition. When one of them faces their worst fears or the possibility of failure, the other is ready to receive them with open arms and help them move forward together.

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Slow-burning love and a tangible chemistry that goes beyond the screen

Legend has it that thousands of years ago humans were made up of two people. That being had two heads as well as two pairs of arms and legs. His wisdom was delirious, his reasoning was precise, and in his body two hearts beat with harmony and fullness. The person was happy because he lived in love with his counterpart, but one day he defied the gods and received the most severe punishment: being separated from his other half. He was condemned to search for the one who was taken from him in order to feel whole again.
From that moment on we wander the world looking for the ideal person, the perfect partner who will complement us.
What if love is not in that stranger but in someone very close? What if your childhood friend, the one who accompanied you since you were a child in childhood games and pranks, or who was a little older in high school or university, could be the perfect match? Couldn't the love of your life be that friend who has been there all the time, by your side, the one who listens to you, the one who knows you well, the one who gives you advice, a hug in the moment of triumph or a shoulder in the moment of pain and sadness? It may seem strange, but if he has been there for so many years to support us, maybe he is also there to love.
If there is a recurring trope in film and television, it is the movies and series of best friends who fall in love, something that is also very common in real life.
With this premise, Ayaka Kato, the director of the Japanese BL series 'My Personal Weatherman' and 'Zenra Meshi', called on the screenwriter Takeshi Miyamoto ('Perfect Propose') to work together, as they did in 'Old Fashion Cupcake' , to adapt and give life, in real action, to the characters and events of 'Kare no Iru Seikatsu' ('Living With Him'), the popular original manga by Toworu Miyata. Koji Nomura also joined in writing the scripts. Together they created a drama that exposes the complexities of love, painting a vivid picture of a relationship that evolves over just over a decade.
NBC Universal Entertainment Japan's romantic comedy-drama tells the story of two childhood friends who reunite after a few years apart and realize they have feelings for each other. As they navigate the challenges of early youth and the expectations of their respective social circles, they must decide if they are brave enough to risk everything for a chance at love.
The narrative, as the title suggests, offers snapshots of a life together, weaving together the shared experiences of Kazuhito and Ryo. Over the course of 10 half-hour episodes, the series encapsulates the bittersweet exploration of young adulthood, highlighting fleeting but impactful moments that shape their relationship.
In a total departure from his role in the 'Kamen Rider' franchise, Sato Ryuga, in his first leading role, plays Kazuhito Tanaka, a young man with a sparkling aura, good personality and physical appearance. This young man has had feelings for his friend Ryota for many years. There was a past between the two when he was a member of the baseball club, which could be the key to their union and attraction.
For his part, Sakai Sho, a Japanese social media influencer who turned to acting by participating in the film 'Tokyo, I Love You' and the series 'Jeanne no Sabaki' and 'Takara-kun to Amagi-kun' , the latter also from the BL genre, plays Ryota Natsukawa, a housewife-type boy who is good at household chores, such as cooking and washing clothes, with an honest and expressive personality.
They are both best friends since childhood and total opposites. Ryo, who in high school was part of the "normal" group, today longs to be independent from his parents and living in his own house while studying at university will give him the desired freedom. Meanwhile, Kazuhito, the one from the "popular" group "As he goes through high school, he is in need of a place to sleep. The turning point of this story begins when the two friends meet again.
Upon reconnecting, Ryota recognizes that, despite his perfect appearance and pleasant personality, Kazuhito does not have a girlfriend. Curious to know why he hasn't found his better half, he tries to point out his flaws from a girlfriend's point of view. But you can't see any imperfections.
This is how he proposes to have a date, with the pretext of finding him an ideal girl. However, Ryota finds his heart fluttering at Kazuhito's kind words and actions. As the two deepen their relationship and Ryota gets to know more about the young man with whom he shares a roof, he wonders if he is in love or if it is just a deep feeling of friendship.
As they share time together and the old friendship seems to have been rekindled, the spark will fan their hearts. Little by little they are getting closer. Kazuhito is the one who takes the first step, declaring his old and undying love to Ryo. He suddenly finds himself in the middle of a crossroads: not knowing whether or not to love his friend, or whether he is right or wrong. How can you find the answer to this great enigma?
As they deepen their friendship, love simmers. They will need time for everything to develop. The series shows us how little by little two souls recognize each other and a beautiful feeling is created in their hearts. Will they be ready to take the next step?
The interplay of love and memories of the past drive their individual and shared narratives. The uncomfortable initial encounter matures into meaningful dialogues, fostering the expected physical interactions on the part of the audience. Lovers of the BL genre will gladly receive this story about best friends who fall in love, for the innocence and development of their characters and for the dramatic and even fun situations that are generated when they discover that they are in love.
Kazuhito and Ryo are the clear example that shows that opposites attract, and that they can be very happy together. The reunion and living together under the same roof shakes the lives of the two young people. These events trigger a story marked by the complexity of human bonds, an aspect that, although typical of the romantic genre, in this work delves into love, friendship, discovery, acceptance, family relationships and reflection on complexities of being an LGBT person today.
The audience will obtain a lot of information about the hidden feelings and thoughts of the two, mainly those of Ryo, which will be revealed through the conversations of the protagonists and the evocation of the moments lived long ago since they met until their lives He set them on different paths. The viewer will find it nice to see the two of them together. The way their lives are told is actually very enjoyable and seems authentic. The flashbacks will help you travel to the past to learn that there was always something special between them.
The stories of the secondary characters offer the viewer even more information about their love story. The plot arc develops throughout the drama: the friends will meet again to become lovers and will have a very romantic ending.
There's something undeniably touching about watching two best friends fall in love. However, everything can be unpredictable when this happens. Will things work out because they know each other and have a deep enough connection to embark on the journey of love? Or, on the contrary, will one of them, or both, not take the step for fear of breaking the friendship? This is precisely a dilemma in which we can all be at some point.
Sato Ryuga is the star of the show. As Kamen Rider Geats, his transition into a romantic role as the young college student who falls in love with his best friend is believable. He has a strong screen presence and those romantic scenes can delight the audience.
The dramatization presents a peculiarity in its conception: it is a look at homosexual youth in a conservative society with strong patriarchal and heteronormative traditions in which discrimination against LGTB+ people persists and gay marriage or equal marriage is not recognized.
In order to bring together current generations and members of the LGBT community who are increasingly interested, some in understanding relationships between people of the same sex in a changing society and others in seeing themselves reflected in various audiovisual content and formats, the director He guided the production under certain influences from cinema and serial products of the moment. The creative photographic work, the use of lights and the unique transition curtains show a relationship with the plot.
'Kare no Iru Seikatsu' also surprises with one of the most original presentation designs of the latest JBL dramas, where even a minimal detail denotes intention, insight, while revealing identity elements of the work. Music, an essential complement in fiction, also fits like a perfect piece in the scenes, especially the romantic ones.
However, the true essence of the series lies in the tangible chemistry between the two characters. His portrayal of Ryo and Kazuhito's quiet, fun, and tender relationship transcends the screen, filled with raw emotions, chaos, and affection.

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The consequences of infidelity

The usual thing is to go to the movies (or turn on your cell phone or computer and check the internet), to fall in love, or at least to see kisses and hope for a happy ending.
That is not exactly the theme of '.avi', since this South Korean 'LGBT+' short film portrays the deflagration of affection, distancing, disagreement, deception, betrayal...
But at what point does what was united break? When does what seemed like lifelong happiness become an unbearable burden? There are many reasons for the disagreement, and where they are missing, in this case, one of the members of the couple will be responsible for providing them.
In this little masterful gem, the first film by South Korean Lim Kyu Hyung, two young people, Min Cheol and Chan Gyu, seem the height of rapport and affection, making plans for the future once they have to join their country's army to do the military service. They will find time and ways to meet and enjoy love.
However, when a video of her boyfriend having sex with another man arrives in Chan Gyu's hands, everything irrevocably changes forever. A shared world becomes the loneliest of places.
Although the plot sounds a bit generic, watch it for the beautiful cinematography and excellent performances. South Korean aesthetics are not something you will regret investing your time in. Seo Tae Woong ('Cheer Up') is an interesting casting choice, but it's Kim Chan Kyu ('Discipline Z: Vampire', 'Summer Déjà-vu'), who catches our attention as the indignant and hurt boyfriend Min Cheol who tries to find the truth behind the images.
Both actors had already starred in the romantic drama LGBT+ 'Twins' (2024).
The profound effects of infidelity on those who have been deceived are reflected in a fascinating way. Furthermore, the intimate moments between the two characters are subtle, elegant and hot. The use of body language and silences takes the cake in the film's treatment.
Erotic and dramatic is a combination that we love. The hot chemistry between the two lead actors is VERY good to watch. The film is visually impressive, leaves us speechless from time to time and makes us want to punch Min Cheol. But to understand it... would we also be attracted to understanding his actions, with his back to his boyfriend?
'. avi' is definitely a drama about relationships worth watching, since it explores the consequences of infidelity, of the betrayal of one of the members of the couple who acts as if he were an escort, but I would have liked it to explore not only from the perspective of the deceived, but also that of the cheater.
The dialogue is wonderfully intense and the performances memorable. Honestly, if Kim Chan Kyu and Seo Tae Woong are in a movie, just watch it.
Despite their separation, the journey they take is impressive to watch. If you're looking for a happy ending or a reconciliation between these two, you're barking up the wrong tree.

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Many of us have been amazed by the latest project by the Japanese director, screenwriter, actress and casting director Sawada Ikuko for her point of view, for several of the ideas that are dropped, for the aesthetics that accompanies the story, for the strength of the performance of a luxury cast, for the splendid soundtrack that accompanies us.
We are in the 90s of the last century. We are in a quiet rural town during the Heisei era. We are facing a story of acceptance and self-discovery during adolescence, but far from the romanticism of most of the series based on manga that I usually review here, telling us a hard, stark and bittersweet story. This is a coming-of-age drama that explores the pressures to conform and the power of friendship.
The beginning of 'Smells Like Green Spirit', the LGBT+ themed drama series, is engaging. We are introduced to a high school student being chased by several of his schoolmates.
Mishima, an androgynous teenager who defies social norms of sexuality, with his very long hair, delicate beauty and marked feminine features, lives in two different worlds: while the Sun shines in the sky, his classmates give free rein to their homophobia and is systematically tortured for "appearing to be gay." At night, in the silence of his house, once his mother goes to bed, we can distinguish a boy who is clear that he likes boys, something he hides and, faced with the economic impossibility of buying other cosmetic products, he only applies lipstick taken from his mother's bag, while he enjoys dressing the clothes of the woman who sleeps a few meters away from him.
His colleagues harass and physically and psychologically attack him because of his femininity, calling him in the most derogatory ways alluding to his sexuality. But he doesn't care, he's happy being the way he is.
All this reveals two of the pillars of the work. But be careful, this is not a more or less classic story that revolves around transsexuality.
But that bittersweet existence takes a radical turn when he discovers by accident that the hatred that Makoto Kirino, one of his staunchest harassers, professes towards him, is not only the result of the education received by a heteronormative family or from living in a society that does not accept diversity and that makes someone who is different hate themselves for not fitting into a supposed canon of "normality", but that they have much more in common than what appears at first glance and that this hatred is actually a desire to have the freedom to be like him.
In this way, the fatherless young boy will discover that, like him, Kirino is gay and likes to cross-dress, but he has hidden this side of him due to his conservative mother, who cannot accept he son's true nature. In this sense, since his childhood, in his environment, Kirino has been raised listening to prejudices and stereotypes of rejection or hatred towards LGTB+ people. Having integrated these values into your system, the construction of your identity has been marked by those beliefs. For this reason, he considers that a part of him is not worthy of acceptance and recognition, so he must hide, compensate, repair... his sexuality.
This is how the series borders on that controversial stereotype that behind every homophobe there is someone repressing their authentic sexuality. However, Kirino's story is so well done that it is difficult not to empathize and feel sorry for him, and even understand the pain that not accepting oneself can lead to something terrible. Kirino is ultimately, unlike Mishima, a poor confused teenager with his head in a mess.
Although it is true that this stereotype also comes into play with another character with whom one does enter into more delicate terrain that is much more controversial, and I will not go into detail about it so as not to give away spoilers.
Once the moment of initial terror of being discovered has passed, Kirino experiences the relief of being able to show himself as he is to another person who does not judge him and understands him. Being able to talk and share their problems without having to hide will be the first step for the two to begin to weave a beautiful friendship based on the secrets they hide from the world. And in this way we discover the other pillar on which the series is based.
These two teenagers must face a hostile social environment, allies who are wolves in sheep's clothing, and, what's worse, the possibility of frustrating their families' expectations. They must not only hide from others, but also hide from themselves.
All this, while we are presented with a Japan far from the typical view and the images of cities of futuristic technology mixed with ancient traditions. A much "dirtier and darker" Japan, for a story that usually appears darker than what we get from there, where the main character suffers daily harassment by teenagers like him, while others are forced to hide who they are out of fear to receive the same bullying that Mishima suffers.
While Mishima benefits from having a loving and understanding mother, Kirino struggles to reconcile her sexuality with her oppressive and patriarchal upbringing.
Kirino quickly opens up to Mishima, when they both meet during free hours on the school roof and outside the educational grounds, and can be who he really is without having to hide, although in front of his classmates he has to continue pretending contrary. However, he slowly begins to change the way he treats Mishima in front of others as he begins to accept himself.
It is surprising that Mishima does not feel or express any type of resentment towards his harassers and that he quickly finds in Kirino a being similar to the one who forgives all the bad times he put him through.
Thanks to the friendship with Mishima, Kirino's character transforms into a totally different person. If it is true that his attitude at the beginning is inexcusable and unjustifiable, as you begin to interact more with Mishima you discover his past and who he really is, making it easier to connect with him.
Through Mishima we observe the story and see how Tarō Yumeno, another of his bullies, a classmate and one of the main players in the school basketball club, is actually a boy who hides behind the façade of the bully, and who always makes fun of Mishima, to hide his true feelings.
Falling in love with Mishima is easy; He is so tender, so close, that you can't help but love him, sympathize with his character, let yourself be carried away by his antics, identify with a being that is certain of knowing who he is, even if he has to hide it.
And as these three young people begin to discover who they are, struggling to define themselves, they will make difficult decisions that will shape the rest of their lives.
'Smells Like Green Spirit' presents a heartbreaking character study anchored by a confident and convincing performance by Araki Towa, Sono Shunta and Fujimoto Kodai, actors who play Mishima Futoshi, Kirino Makoto and Yumeno Taro, respectively.
Araki Towa shines in her role, which she plays with delicacy and melancholy.
It is interesting how the story mixes comic situations that will brighten your day with other moments of extreme drama that will break your heart, while telling a story whose characters explore different ways of living sexuality and gender identity. Without a doubt, they are characters that anyone can empathize with.
Screenwriter Arai Yuuka takes the cake by adapting the manga of the same name written and illustrated by Saburō Nagai, serialized in Fusion Product's Comic Be between 2011 and 2013, collected in two tankōbon volumes, which allows the viewer to take a look at how complicated it is. a time that is complex in itself like adolescence, when one also does not fit into what is considered normal. As in the original work, the narrative text not only allows a very honest story to be translated into moving images, but also skips many stereotypes associated with BL manga.
The series addresses topics such as transvestism, while emphasizing that being a transvestite does not mean being transsexual, and that, in turn, this is not linked to sexual orientation.
Linking family history makes it feel even more intimate and personal, especially when one of them's mother is a widow and the other is single, and they have raised their children with so much love that their descendants want to care for them in the same way.
Sawada Ikuko addresses all these complex issues with commendable delicacy and lucidity. He raises the questions but does not decide, does not judge, does not take sides.
It is also true that with a cast like this it makes it very easy for the viewer. In addition to the aforementioned actors, Abe Aran joins as Professor Yanagida, Sakai Miyuki as Futoshi's mother, Kanai Miki as Sawada Ayako, Kaji Masaki as Edokawa Toshihiko, Katada Hiyori as Fujii Rinka, among others. That is to say, the stellar performances of the entire cast, especially the young people who turn from rivals to friends, anchor the story.
With an outstanding soundtrack, whose musical themes are inserted in such a way that they become the perfect complement to the story, the Japanese director succeeds in maintaining her closeness with his main character at all times, especially in that climactic moment when Mishima and Kirino They look into each other's eyes for the first time and scrutinize their souls.
There are some clichés often found in LGBT+ stories, but for the most part, Sawada Ikuko creates a totally original drama that is worth watching. Bearing the weight of emotional trauma and gay shame, the three boys need more than a hug to get them through. But there is a hopeful message, tinged with painful sadness. 'Smells Like Green Spirit' teaches an important lesson that will reach many young people who struggle with their sexual preferences, especially those who live among family members who are intolerant towards LGBT+ people.
As a result, the series doesn't flinch from contemplating the unfortunate reality of hate and intolerance, but also reflects and celebrates the other side of humanity.
This is a bittersweet series that reinforces the idea that there are good people who will love and accept you no matter who you are. The audiovisual demonstrates great empathy for those who have to hide who they are throughout their lives, or part of it, even if that eventually turns them into melancholic beings.
It is a deeply personal story, which speaks of young queer people who have the luxury of searching for their identity and discovering who they are from an early age, and those who must keep part of their identity hidden for fear of losing their family or receiving hate from the community.
There are moments in this queer story that are truly terrifying and other moments are tender and pure.
For all that has been said, the series stays with the viewer after the final credits of the first three episodes of the 9 that the MBS and TVK audiovisual have.
A splendid and bittersweet story as well as a tough love story. Yes, of love, because self-acceptance can only be fulfilled with a lot of love.

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Alan and Ben have an instant connection during a breakup party. They both leave the party to get a room to have a night of sex.
However, every place they go they find reserved rooms. It's a Saturday night, and many couples long to have sex and live a few hours of adventure.
As they wander through the streets and alleys of Hong Kong, from hotel to hotel, which at that time are completely booked, the two young men get closer and open up about their past: Alan tells Ben about his first hookup experience, At the age of 17, in a school uniform, he went with the only boyfriend he has had to a villa, where they do not allow two men to rent a room, and since then he has not found a place where she could have sex. Therefore, tonight, with Alan, she would have her first sexual experience.
While they spend the night walking together, Alan will confess that he hates McDonald's food and everything related to the services of this food chain, because he went with his ex-boyfriend to one of these places every day after class, and it was there where the boy ended the relationship.
For his part, Ben will reveal that he was also in one of these establishments when he last saw his mother, since the woman abandoned him with his younger sister, and since then he has not seen her again.
With his father dead for years, he had to separate from his sister when he was taken in by another relative, while he went to live with the family of the girl who organized the party where they met.
Answering questions, Ben also reveals his Chinese name: Won Ka Chun, and having been in five or six relationships up to that point.
As they chat about which male celebrities they would both like to sleep with, their day surprises them. At this point, their conversations have opened up many possibilities beyond erection and lust: Is love possible? Will there be a chance to move forward? Is sex the only bond that unites them?
With a duration of 20 minutes, 'After Erection', the short film filmed in Hong Kong in 2017, stars Lei Jeun Sek and Lee Wai Lok. The first, an actor, screenwriter and director known for directing the film 'Tracey' (2018), which tells the story of a transgender man and his struggles in Hong Kong, takes on the role of Ben.
In his fight to make the LGBT+ community visible, Lei Jeun Sek has worked on the films 'Drifting' (2021), 'Forever 17' (2019), and 'I Miss You When I See You' (2018), among others.
Meanwhile, Lee Wai Lok, who plays Alan, has his acting debut and only role in his career to date in this short film.
'After Erection' appears to be a version of the Taiwanese LGBT+ themed romantic short film 'YuXiang & Mark' (鈺翔和馬克), filmed in 2016, written and directed by Huang Sheng Tim, but in it instead of Ben and Alan the The names of the two characters are the same as those that give the work its title, as well as the setting is not Hong Kong, but Taiwan.
And although neither of the two short films has high levels of production and interpretation, I like the one produced in Hong Kong better, because I find greater depth in the script, I manage to empathize better with its protagonists by providing greater strength in their human connections, without ignoring music, editing, dramaturgy, photography, sets, among other technical aspects.
'After Erection' reflects some of the difficulties faced by the LGBT+ community in Hong Kong at the time it was filmed, specifically having trouble trying to find public places to have sex.
'However, films like this and actions such as those carried out by activists for the rights of this human group, such as Lei Jeun Sek, have made it possible for today, 7 years later, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Hong Kong to celebrate some achievements, such as that granted by the Court of Final Appeal, which in a historic ruling on September 5, 2023, urges the Hong Kong government to establish a legal framework for the recognition of same-sex couples, marking a milestone in the fight for equality and human rights.
Although it does not grant full marriage rights, this ruling represents a hopeful victory for the community, by supporting civil unions between people of the same sex, a legal process that has not yet concluded.

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'Pretty Boys is a romantic comedy that follows Grey, a flamboyant and charming young man, and his lifelong best friend, Jonas (Kiel Aguilar), a heartthrob with masculine appeal. While Jonas effortlessly navigates the gay dating scene, Gray struggles to find love, convinced that his effeminate style is an obstacle. But despite countless rejections, Gray remains hopeful.
Their world turns upside down when Yates (Markus Paterson), Grey's crush, returns from the United States. Grey's heart races at the chance to rekindle his old love, but his plans are derailed when Yates unexpectedly confesses his feelings for Jonas.
By enlisting Gray's help to win Jonas's heart, Yates puts Gray in a love triangle he never saw coming. As the plot unfolds, Gray is faced with a crucial decision: support Yates in her conquest of Jonas or take the opportunity to rekindle her own love story and prove that love knows no stereotypes.
This is another film about a boy (or three) facing his sexuality and searching for love and happiness. In reality, a film that dealt well with this topic would be novel, but that is not the case. And what bothers me the most is that it is directed and written by Iván Andrés Payawal and Ash Malanum, respectively, the filmmakers of 'Gameboys', 'Gameboys: The Movie', among other series and films, and the lovers of series and feature films LGBT+ Filipinos (and universals, why not?) recognize what this means.
What bothers me the most is that it stars Tommy Alejandrino, whom I loved in his role as Nikko in 'The Day I Loved You', Kiel Aguilar, who stole my heart playing Dave in 'Osmosis' and Jerome in 'Our Story', and Markus Paterson, who still steals my smiles and sighs since I discovered him in the role of Simon in 'Hello Stranger: The Movie', three actors who, with a better script and better constructed characters, would have made the film hit the mark.
'Pretty Boys' is a simple story with fairly flat characters. The girl in love with the confessed homosexual, the three declared homosexual boys who are not sure of anything or are too silent or declare their love so superficially that they do not move anyone, the members of the technical team of the play who contribute nothing to the story... All very topical and, deep down, a reflection of a reality.
The problem is that such a serious topic requires being treated in another way, at least with credible characters. Furthermore, the story seems to be in a nebula, since the protagonist's objective seems to change with each scene; and suddenly, everything happens in the last four, maybe two minutes, leaving only dissatisfaction.
The film is entertaining, but it doesn't contribute anything because not even the director knows what he wants to tell.

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The boys whose names together are not the only thing that look good on them

Who has seen 'Hit Bite Love', the six-episode teen romantic drama released on Jinloe Media's YouTube channel in 2023, which tells the story of six boys from "Rose Garden College" who decide to break all taboos and learn the real truth about love...pain...and growth, don't you remember Burger and King, two of those teenagers?
Don't you remember those two classmates who one day, sitting at their desks next to each other, King, played by Newyear Nawaphat Thannamongkhonsawat, discovers that he forgot a book, so Burger, played by Jur Vasin Traiprakhong, tells him offer yours to share?
Have you already remembered? Of course. It couldn't be any other way, because you immediately connect with the story of these young people that starts from that precise moment, when King sees a drawing of himself in the book and mistakenly assumes that Burger likes it. After this, King finds happiness just thinking that he is loved by the boy who sits next to him and asks him out. However, he will soon discover that everything has been a misunderstanding, because Burger has no feelings for him.
But if in matters of the heart, misunderstandings have caused conflict and broken relationships, they have also brought love, happiness and hope. This is precisely what King finds when Burger enters his life and the two build an emotional connection.
Directed by Jakkaphong Pachara (Yuan), 'Firstly "Like" You' (ตกลงใครชอบก่อน), picks up the story to, through the eyes of Burger, the main narrator, delve into the relationship of the two young high school students .
Based on the entire footage of 'Hit Bite Love', which is just over five hours long, 'Firstly "Like" You' leaves aside everything related to the other two stories, that is, the love triangle between Ken , Shogun and Matteo, and the relationship of the stepbrothers Hida and Saint, to, in about 80 minutes, focus on the birth and evolution of the romance between the president of the school's drama club, and the student transferred to the famous college of high society.
By leaving out everything else, the drama is transformed into a comedy, which achieves a lot of acceptance among an audience that may have rejected the series for addressing topics such as toxic relationships and BDSM.
Bordering on a love triangle that is also not very interested in exploring in depth, the screenwriters Poy Orachat Brahmasreni and Chim Sedthawut Inboon expose in the narrative text themes such as love, adolescence, friendship, discovery, acceptance and personal growth, always in order to entertain, but also to make you reflect.
In this way, we will follow in the footsteps of the young boy with a silly, neurotic, enthusiastic and immature personality who, while he wants to join the drama club because he dreams of being an actor, will have to deal with the persecution of King, who is firmly convinced that his partner class is secretly in love with him.
Personally, I was amused by all of Burger's witticisms to get King away, because every time King approaches him, Burger gets nervous. Likewise, I enjoyed the close relationship between King and his mother, with whom the student has no reservations about confessing his most intimate secrets.
The audience will be able to enjoy how, based on the misunderstanding, King is the one who will be interested in approaching and pleasing Burger. It is pleasant to see how King, a responsible, mature and popular teenager, always surrounded by many girls interested in joining the club to be close to him, suddenly discovers his sexuality while experiencing a homosensual awakening.
'Firstly "Like" You' more than meets what is expected from a film of these characteristics. The keys are, mainly, its script, its aesthetics and its performances, because although the two protagonists have little experience and are only 16 years old during filming, their performances fit perfectly with the narrative style of the story.
Jur Vasin Traiprakhong takes the cake, for his grace, charisma and the way he handles the humorous scenes.
Another element to highlight is the music. Being the same as the series, the cast itself is the one who sings the songs that make up the film's soundtrack. In this way, we will enjoy Jur, Tae, Newyear, Pure, Bigboss, Vic and Alan, who perform "Hit Me Bite Me", a song composed by Alan Campana, and Vic and Tae singing "Oxigen", a song written and scored by Vic Vittawin Panichtamrong.
The photography, by Suchart Makhawimarn, contributes to making the story of two people who become friends and fall in love credible, despite being polar opposites.
Suriya Kaewkrong's editing achieves a fast and quite adequate narrative. However, flashbacks to scenes already presented could have been avoided.
Even so, it is regrettable that, seeking to visualize diversity on screens, the film portrays queer characters in a stereotypical way, due to their continuous screams and mood swings.
While it is true that Thai serial and film fiction with the presence of LGBT+ plots has experienced various changes since its appearance, going from an initial invisibility and stigmatization, in which the characters had to be presented as the opposite of what is morally acceptable in society , to a quantitative increase in these characters, and despite their decrease, traditional and recurring stereotypes continue to be used such as the effeminate LGBT+ character or transsexuals who, due to circumstances, act in a grotesque, exalted or tormented way due to their condition.
Despite the positive increase in the visibility of diverse sexual orientations and identities in BL series and films in this country, creators must take into account that a poor symbolic construction based on stereotypes reinforces not only the deformed social imaginaries about this minority, but the very identity of the collective.
This is even more important if we take into account the great socializing potential that the film and television industries have and the capacity for transnationalization that the distribution platforms of these entertainment products have achieved, as they can promote a distorted vision of this non-human group. only in the Thai national space, but also in the rest of the globe.
'Firstly "Like" You' reminds me of 'Kieta Hatsukoi', the 2021 Japanese teen and school Yaoi romantic comedy from the TV Asahi network, which tells how through a misunderstanding, Aoki, the high school student with a personality Brilliant and in love with Hashimoto Mio, the girl who sits next to him in the classroom, he ends up in a romantic relationship with Ida, his classmate.
I also find similarities with other Thai BL dramas. If in 'My School President', for example, Gun (Fourth - Nattawat Jirochtikul) and Win (Winny - Thanawin Pholcharoenratm) get to know each other more deeply after answering "36 questions that will make people fall in love", in 'Firstly' Like" You' King will propose a series of questions that Burger must answer as part of a theater club survey, claiming that the objective is to get to know the future actor better.
Of the three couples in the series, Burger and King was always my favorite. If they brought joy and life to the series, the film carefully chooses and stages the appropriate scenes to preserve the world created around these characters in the six-episode drama.
The one between King and Burger is a surprisingly tender and innocent teenage romance that is highly recommended, for its humor, for the reflections it invites us to, for the palpable chemistry between the two young people, and for how they manage to create a friendly bond first, romantic. later, without becoming a couple, since we will surely find this in the announced second season.

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Cheng Kai-Xin (Yao Jung Tsai) and Chen Jie (Li-Hsin Money) are two homosexuals involved in a beautiful romance despite keeping it secret. Their tender romantic relationship begins to falter when they both discover what the other is hiding: Kai wants to enter a Catholic seminary to become a pastor, following in his father's footsteps; and her boyfriend plans to go abroad to train as a soccer player.
While Kai asks Jie not to travel to another country as this would mean an immense distance between the two, Jie points out that if Kai becomes a pastor the relationship would also be compromised due to the Catholic Church's opposition to homosexual relationships.
'Icarus' (伊卡洛斯的翅膀 / 'Yi Ka Luo Si De Chi Bang' is a 2017 LGBT+ themed romantic drama, written, directed and edited by filmmaker Alan Chen, which tells us through the characters and their conflicts an authentic myth of our times: that of Icarus, one of the shortest and, at the same time, most complex classical myths.
Produced by Shao-Han Wen and with photography by Meng Chen Hung, the short film tells us that Kai lives trapped with his father, a pastor played by actor Chin-Liang Liao, not on the island of Crete, but in a Taiwanese church. But when he falls in love, Jie is the sun that illuminates his life. However, the more he wants to reach out to his boyfriend, the more he falls into the embrace of the heat.
After Kai learns of his lover's plans, his first reaction is to paint Icarus falling because his wax-glued wings cannot withstand the heat of the sun. When Jie asks him "What did you think about when you drew this?" Kai responds with two questions: "When are you going abroad?" I mean, will our feelings for each other disappear?" It is evident that Kai has come to the conclusion that the path Jie has chosen may result in the end of the existing relationship between the two. But doesn't Kai's decision have the same destructive power?
However, like the story of the myth, the short film leaves us with a variety of interpretations and meanings. These include the one about young people who do not control their impulses and crash immediately, or the one that tells us about an ingenious father and his unfortunate son, both victims of their own ambition.
With Daedalus unable to save his son, many see the story of Icarus as a warning about the dangers of ambition or lack of moderation. Some interpret the story from a more positive perspective, emphasizing the importance of living life fully, even when there are consequences.
Given the backdrop of the Taiwanese Catholic Church, some might take the film text as a metaphor for what can happen to people when they stray from the path of righteousness, assuming that the Church represents this.
Others see Icarus as a symbol of punished youthful recklessness, or the symbol of the rebellion of young people with respect to their parents, but also as a symbol of the innate curiosity of youth, the attraction of risk, the pleasure of adventure, of the interest in learning, of the fever to rise to the top.

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A story of healing, love and the fusion of two opposite worlds

No one can resist the charm and cuteness of pets; Regardless of whether it is a parrot, rabbit, dog or kitten, they win your heart and little by little they end up being part of the family. Most human beings enjoy spending time with their pet, which is not surprising since while you indulge in the moment, your brain feels happy and secretes "the happiness hormone."
'Love is Like a Cat' (사랑은 고양이처럼), also known as 'Sarangeun Goyang Icheoleom', the romantic comedy from South Korean director Kwon Nam Ki ((권남기), revolves around Piuno (Mew Suppasit - 'What The Duck ', 'TharnType' and 'TharnType2: 7 Years Of Love'), a well-known Thai star who doesn't like animals, and her romance with Lee Dae Byeol (Chu Jimin, known as JM, from the South Korean idol group JUST B), the director of a pet daycare.
Every time he crosses paths with an animal, Piuno remembers a traumatic episode he experienced in his childhood that makes him not want them around. Pets do not awaken that feeling of love or tenderness in him. He suffers from zoophobia. He is aware that this phobia is considered an irrational act of human beings, but he cannot help it.
It has been suggested to him that his "illness" can be treated with professional help, since he can find the necessary support to overcome the trauma and gradually manage to coexist with the animals. But he has not paid interest to the matter, thinking that it would not be of much use to him, and he has moved on with his life.
However, when he finds himself threatened by those who wish to see him brought down, there is only one thing he can do to save his reputation and his career: work at a pet daycare in South Korea.
Putting aside his severe dislike for animals, Piuno begins working alongside Dae Byeol, who will help him find ways to overcome the trauma that first inspired his hatred of animals. This is how he will end up appearing in a reality show set in a pet cafe in Seoul.
But these will not be the only surprises that the protagonist encounters: as his heart begins to soften, unexpected feelings begin to arise for the young owner of the daycare center. What will happen between the cold and enigmatic actor who doesn't believe in love, and the outgoing and romantic pet daycare owner when their lives intersect?
Lovers of the BL genre in general, and of Mew Suppasit, in particular, will be pleased with the reappearance of the renowned Thai actor, singer and producer in a romance drama between two boys of the same sex. On the other hand, JM, his co-star, shows his youthful charms and the dreamy aura of the idol, as well as his talent as an actor, in this, his first appearance in a drama.
In addition to the aforementioned actors, on screen we will see GeonU, also a member of JUST B, also in his acting debut, playing Gi Min, one of the pet daycare workers; and Kim Kyoung Seok ('Hot And Sweet' and 'Someday Office'), as Jun Hyuk, a friend of Dae Byeol and one of his biggest followers. These secondary characters play a very important role and contribute intensity and complexity to the conflicts.
With a seductive cast, in addition to wonderful chemistry, the direction, cinematography, writing, music and staging transport the viewer to a dream and fairy tale universe in which everyone involved, including the Animals, especially dogs, contribute their own, to achieve a series capable of marking a milestone within the genre, as it escapes stereotypes, and shows human beings with their nuances and in various circumstances. The narrative maintains a good rhythm that enhances the emotional closure of each episode and the series in general.
All these details give an idea of ​​the story told to those who still do not know it, a narrative firmly based on the love stories between two young men of different personalities, countries, professions, languages ​​and cultures, but determined to sustain their idyll against all obstacles. , prejudices and cultural, linguistic or temperament divergences. One looks like a dog, while the other looks like a cat.
What an actor lacks because he is new to these issues, the other provides, due to his extensive experience. It's fascinating to watch the couple navigate their uncertain feelings. One of the main reasons audiences will admire the series is the simplicity and relatability of the story, as well as the good visuals.
Once the romance escalates, 'Love is Like a Cat' shows one of its greatest strengths. The series has the ability to create many tender moments between the two young people. We will see them flirting in the garden of the animal nursery and kissing in the sunny corner of the clinic room, under the knowing gaze of their friends, including the four-legged ones.
Every affectionate interaction is like a treat for BL fans, making these scenes even better thanks to the beautifully polished visuals. The public will witness the generous abundance of romantic images. The cinematographer captures every intimate look and every loving gesture with pinpoint precision.
Dae Byeol is a well-defined protagonist. He knows his work and loves animals. He is sincere, responsible and faithful to his friends, both those who bark and the others who accompany him on this journey of taking care of pets and falling in love with a famous television star. His qualities create a memorable character with nuances. His charm emerges once the performer gains confidence in the role he plays. Just then the couple's chemistry strengthens, going from being a little embarrassing at first to building a more comfortable and deeper relationship.
In comparison, Piuno's backstory will also draw the viewer's sympathy with high marks. He likes it more and more, especially when he overcomes the somewhat mysterious, reserved, fearful attitude when encountering the animals for which he has always felt rejection, when leaving behind the weight of the circumstances that forced him to move away from his comfort zone, and when you begin to adapt to the people, the language, the customs, the culture of a foreign country.
The series explores the couple's bond physically, emotionally and spiritually. When I think about how Piuno and Lee Dae Byeol started the story of "strangers to friends and friends to lovers", both of them, side by side, went on an eventful journey. They overcame personality clashes, misunderstandings, and even cultural and language differences. Best of all, there's a lot of cute BL content.
One of the strong and striking points of the series is the fusion of two worlds. Piuno and Dae Byeol come from two different countries and cultures. Their universes will collide when their paths cross. Everything that separates them will not be an impediment for the two main characters to get closer, fall in love and begin a journey in search of happiness.
Each episode aims to ensure that the viewer is not disappointed, that they remain hooked, that they have a closure that lives up to expectations. The technical and artistic teams worked to achieve it. The arc of the characters, their development, as well as the events and conflicts, are very coherent.
The script, the depth of the themes addressed, and the aesthetics with which they are presented, the attention to detail to be as realistic as possible, the convincing performances, with a cast made up of established and young actors and actresses, determine, among others , the elements that mark the success of 'Love is Like a Cat'.
'Love is Like a Cat' is a story of healing and love. In addition to the entertainment factor and the fun and tender interactions between Piuno and Lee Dae Byeol, the series tells a story about overcoming trauma, opening your heart, and falling in love.
The inclusion of the adorable animals will provoke a positive reaction from pet lovers and the general public.
This is one of the four joint Thai-Korean BL projects from Hanyang Studio, from the same WeTV Original production, 'Peach Of Time'. The remaining dramas are 'Eccentric Romance', 'Wuju Bakery' and 'The First Love Manual', scheduled to premiere in 2024.
This collaboration between the two countries demonstrates once again that BL series defend the correct formula to sustain and consolidate the genre with the aim of satisfying an audience that craves authentic and moving love stories.
Personally, I liked the way the plot was executed, subtly exploring the characters' personal stories.
This romantic comedy is designed and taken from the script to the images with the potential audience being fans of the romantic genre in general, since love is universal and knows no genres, as well as fans of romances between boys in particular, and makes it clear that its objective is to portray love, acceptance, self-discovery, sexual diversity, the search for happiness, the influence of reality shows on viewers, the perception of the image of actors and idols by the public. , the pressures of the entertainment industry on artists, the challenges that come with being a queer person in today's world, themes explored through the dynamics of the characters.
Conceived to move people and involve audiences, through the main story and secondary plots, the series proposes to generate controversy about other dominant, current and universal elements, such as the tumultuous relationship between father and son, the love of animals and how they influence children's behavior, workplace camaraderie, sexual exploration, positivity, self-validation, and maturation issues. There are cultural debates and topics related to veterinary medicine and animal adoption, which helps make all the stories relatable.

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Singing an out of tune 'Beautiful'

There are relationships that are not worth fighting for. There are others whose members may not have said goodbye forever. But there are other broken relationships that still have a solution.
Sometimes you do everything right in a relationship, and yet love can abandon you, leaving only paralyzing pain and a ton of questions behind. Among these the "why?" It will drag you to the bottom of the abyss.
In this case, when he (or she) is gone, you can follow him or her. You can still convince him that you love each other, that you are perfect for each other, sing him an out-of-tune 'Beautiful', by Baekhyun, and make sure he doesn't get on the plane at the last minute and leave forever. You can also crash their wedding just before they say "I do", so they run away with you to the astonishment of each other's families, while mutual friends scream with joy. Or get into your car with a trailer caravan where you will live you don't know how many days, months or years, travel the distance that separates you from your loved one, stand conveniently under his window, a few meters from his bed, waiting for him to At some point I will allow you to enter it.
Or in the face of a cold and disconsolate response, you could very well be a regular at their restaurant with a name that hurts the insides and you, because you are clueless, because you don't know the reason why they abandoned you, you don't know its meaning.
What if you decided to collaborate in making the menu of said restaurant, become friends with the villagers, help clear up misunderstandings that involve your loved one's family, which is why he is not popular among the locals and why his humble business is going down the drain, and, between filming sessions and road trips, will you adapt and integrate into the quiet and simple life of the person you want to win back?
I would suggest that after reading the vague farewell note and discovering that your lover has packed his bags and left the apartment you have shared, you put strong pressure on your agency, and tell your representative and his subordinate that you will jump out of the car as soon as possible. leave if they don't locate him.
Or when you can't explain to yourself what you did wrong and you can't find answers to the cause of the breakup, you choose to win the affection of the best friend of the person who has put your life in check and her small and precocious daughter, knowing that every step In this sense, it will allow you to create new opportunities to reconnect with your ex.
Precisely the latter was what Seo Joon (Son Woo Hyun) did when Ji Woo (Kim Kang Min) broke his heart in 'To My Star 2: Our Untold Stories The Movie', a compilation of the BL Korean drama of the same name, with some scenes added and others deleted or moved from their original place in the new montage. Yes, I am referring to those two young people, one of them a famous celebrity and the other an ordinary chef, from two different worlds, with little in common, whose lives were shaken when they met and fell in love.
Well, it seemed like both boys would be together forever, but fate had other plans. After giving us some of the most romantic moments in Korean BL, they also filled us with sadness. But there the actor goes in search of his chef to continue enjoying, among other things, his delicious food.
And Hwang Da Seul, the director, took very seriously that no one is saved from death and a broken heart and that we must all face, throughout our lives, several different types of goodbyes. Knowing that every breakup has its reasons, its consequences and its bitter, and sometimes bloody, extensions, that life is not always laughter, love and joy, he summoned screenwriter Park Young to take up the story and develop a second season to imitate , very well filmically speaking, the breakdown of the relationship of that couple so loved by fans of the genre, and then reconciling them, because otherwise it could not be, since, otherwise, as an audience, we would not forgive them.
I imagine Da Seul digging through the films and television series of yesteryear and today to revisit those that deal with breakups and narratives that address every cliché about love and its components, always with a similar structure and, above all, with a happy ending, a sung ending, that is, "from a movie". And all in order to promote significant topics, such as the couple's commitment and communication.
And it does so with incredible bravery, taking the flaws of the first season, especially that of a pleasant but substanceless original story, to make a sequel with greater development of the characters, expanding the dynamics of their relationships and amplifying the emotions.
While it is true that it suffers from a saturated melodrama at times, with artificial conflicts that could have been polished or not incorporated, what is also real is the achievement of the elegant arcs of the characters, which highlight growth, maturity and redemption .
I know that many BL fans will not like what is related to the breakup and the subsequent suffering of the members of their favorite ships, but a work that shows deep conflicts and characters with greater psychological complexities is appreciated.
Without giving any type of spoiler, I will ask you the same question that comes into play during the first minutes of the story: what is the reason for Jin Woo and Seo Joon's breakup?
With this fuse that is lit at the beginning of the film, the characters develop in a narrative with which they will manage to improve the original series, with richer backstories, more character development and complex relationship dynamics, allowing 'To My Star matures, comes of age and becomes a sophisticated BL drama that unfolds in a fascinating journey, seeking and fulfilling the objectives of unraveling a failed relationship, while the protagonists and the audience wonder if they would have a second one. opportunity to reconnect and be happy.
What BL lover wouldn't be surprised by the breakup of their idealized perfect lovers? Seo Joon experiences the same anxiety when faced with Ji Woo's inexplicable departure after leaving a vague message containing a single word: "Let's leave him."
So, the film aims to explore why the breakup and, as I said, reconciliation. But now everything will happen far from the big city, as the cameras will focus on a small town several hours from Seoul, in Ji Woo's hometown and where he went after the breakup, and while he struggles to move his business forward in an Italian restaurant, Seo Joo continues to face problems in his acting career.
And if the proposal alone still doesn't catch your attention, I'll give you another colorful fact: through the experience of the two protagonists, the sequel explores the moving breakup of a couple with intrigue, intimacy and intense emotions. But it doesn't do so by adding a dramatic twist behind the breakup or an infamous evil destroyer of loves and homes.
No, the creators will pleasantly surprise us by letting us know that the reason for the discord is much more personal, simple but complex at the same time: Ji Woo has always preferred to repress his feelings and alienate those who care about him. Yes, it is not easy to live with him, and the series, through flashbacks, will make us understand why he is the way he is. In his case, he is not the typical individual that we see in other audiovisuals that explain his misunderstood actions, such as abandoning a person he loves and from whom he receives love, using the handy excuse of "suffering from childhood trauma." Ji Woo doesn't do anything wrong, he just stays away from Seo Joon and other people in his life to avoid being hurt.
Woo Hyun continues to show the same charm as his persistent Seo Joon. He continually and without hesitation expresses his feelings, says what he thinks and leaves no room for misunderstandings. He goes for it.
For his part, Kang Min continues to play his role as the grumpy but cute Ji Woo, but towards the end you will see him grow wings, all thanks to the persistence and love of Seo Joon.
If many BL sequels have disappointed for various reasons, 'To My Star 2' does the opposite, transforming a simple love story, but without much substance, into a moving saga of breakup and reconciliation. The maturity in the team, both acting and technical, is evident to deliver an ambitious product, the result of hard work and experience.
At this point in the note, you can already imagine what happens with Ji Woo and Seo Joon... But in case you weren't paying much attention, I can confirm that yes, they fight! However, in this case, new characters and new conflicts are added to the dynamic. With a duration of more than four hours that exceeds the slightly more than 2 hours of 'To My Star', with diversification of filming scenarios and an increased secondary cast, with their plots, traumas and life stories, events and characters were developed complexes that will enrich the main story through a compelling narrative.
And I leave for last, precisely because of its importance, an issue that is striking to me: it seems very light that in a country as conservative as South Korea where discrimination against members of the LGBT+ community still persists, marriage between people of the same sex, and homosexuals have difficulty fitting into society, since coming out is not welcomed in most families who consider homosexuality as something similar to a crime, show a rural community, generally defenders of patriarchal and heteronormative traditions, without its inhabitants ever questioning the "friendship" of the two protagonists when the type of relationship they maintain is evident and even trying to influence it so that it is fostered.

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