Review Summary/TLDR;
1. The classic plot has been revamped to make it more relevant and interesting
2. Plot holes have been fixed and details added, making the story richer
3. Well-paced episodes, that don't feel too slow or rushed
4. Dynamic and fleshed out characters, made to be more real and complex
5. Excellent character development
6. Stellar acting from the cast
7. Incredible chemistry between characters, whether it be as friends or romantic partners
8. Good music, that really enhanced the story

Overall, a great watch that will have you laughing, crying, squealing, and feeling all the other emotions possible.


Full Review
Of all the various remakes, I have to say Thailand did it best. Whether it be in production, music, visuals, acting, or anything else. I completely enjoyed watching this version of F4.

Let's start with the plot. While it's true they didn't change much of the plot, they changed it in ways that matter. They've added details, backstories, and even some new plot lines that really explain character motivations and honestly help the viewers connect and empathize more with the characters. The focus on the world of business, the harshness associated with it, and the privilege the rich get, is something extremely relevant to society today. They were able to incorporate this into the plot and make it seem like it was always meant to be there. I liked that they also aimed at exploring the power of social media throughout the show, whether it be at school or following the lives of the boys. Essentially they've fixed up plot holes and added in details, that make the entire thing fresh and new, which is exactly what it needed. Even If you have seen another adaptation of F4, there is no way you would find this boring or repetitive. It was the perfect blend of romance, humor, angst, and emotional payoff. The pacing was incredibly well done as well, the 16 episodes were structured and planned out so well, I can't think of a single thing they missed. Of course, I wouldn't be mad if we got more fluffy moments between the main leads though. If I had to complain, I should say that there were a few scenes that were much more dramatic than they should have been or plots that were taken a little too far. I think it's just something inherent to Thai dramas as a whole, and it didn't happen often, so it didn't really bother me too much.

In terms of production, F4 really outdid itself. Everything looked amazing, the cars, the clothes, the houses, the school. In addition, every scene was shot beautifully, and with meaning. Everything thing had a touch of symbolism to it, representing a bigger picture. I loved that. Even flower garlands were used as metaphors at one point. I haven't seen any other works from this director, but you can be sure I am going to check them out. They are extremely talented.

Now my favorite part of the entire series, the characters and acting. In my opinion, everyone did an amazing job, but some did stand out more than others. First of all, for this to be Tu and Dew's first series, my mind is blown. They did so well. Tu was perfect as the strong-headed FL and Dew made me swoon with every move he made as Ren. Win and Nani did great as well. I love that they and their characters were given more of a chance to shine as well. In past versions, they seemed like side characters, who were just there, but here they had dynamic personalities and actually advanced the plot. I love love love what they did with MJ, and I am a fan now. You can bet I am going to watch everything Nani is now. Even Prim as Kaning was adorable, and I enjoyed watching her relationship with Kavin develop.

The standouts for me have to be Bright and Cindy though. Oh my god. Bright is already a well-established popular actor, and as always he did great, but his version of Thyme is honestly the best one I have ever seen. He isn't a single-minded arrogant bully, who was turned good by the power of love, no. He is a real person with real flaws and actual motivations that lead him to do the things he does. From the very first episode, we see a glimpse behind the curtain of his facade as a ruthless bully allowing the viewers to truly understand, empathize with him, and at one point even start caring for him. Something we never saw in other versions. Instead of just watching his journey of falling in love, growing up, and becoming a better person, it feels like we are taken along with him. We see every instance where Gorya has an impact on him and how it slowly starts to change him for the better. His personality is much more dynamic and well fleshed out, which is honestly one of the biggest reasons why this may be the best F4 adaptation. I love character development, and Thyme had the best of it.

Cindy though, wow! We didn't really get to see her shine until the last few episodes, but every time she was on screen I was captivated by her. Her acting was outstanding, easily my favorite of the entire series. She has been acting for a while, and you can see the experience, but I know some veteran actors who aren't as good as her. She did amazing. Thyme's mother is such a complex, intriguing character. She has actual motivations and reasons for her actions, which is one of the best things that can be done for an antagonist. But an antagonist who does what she does out of love is such a hard character to play, and she nailed it. With every expression, and look in her eyes, you can see the emotion just rolling off her in spades. Whether it be hate, arrogance, love, sadness, or fear, she expressed everything so beautifully, even if I tried I couldn't tear my eyes off her. Even though it came off a little rushed, I was so glad to see her character development because it was something I was waiting for. From the beginning, you could tell, that while her actions appear selfish, her motivations weren't, and we just had to wait for her to realize what's truly best for her son.

As amazing as each actor was individually, the chemistry between all of them was outstanding. The couples were cute and made me squeal, but it was their friendship that sealed the deal for me. They had an actual bond and truly cared for each other. They were real friends that were truly supportive no matter what and it was amazing to watch. It showed that as important as romantic love is, friendship and family are just as important in shaping a person and helping them grow. Even F4s interactions with Gorya were adorable, in my head, I call them the Gorya protection squad, and honestly, that should be canon. Also, I don't care what anyone says, but Kavin and MJ are the true MVPs, they never failed to make me laugh.

Lastly, the music. It was so good, I loved it. Who am I (the intro song), is easily my favorite, shooting star is really good too, and I personally enjoyed Nani's Best Life. I am not a huge music buff, so I don't really pay much attention to the music, but F4 did an amazing job. Nowhere did I feel that the music was odd or mistimed, in fact, it only enhanced every scene it was in.

This was an enjoyable watch and my favorite part of Saturdays. Every week, without fail, I would wait to watch this, and promptly after the episode was over I would be in anticipation for the next. Without a doubt, the best remake of Hana Yori Dango. If you are skeptical about picking this up because you didn't like the previous adaptations or are worried it's going to be more of the same old thing, let go of your doubts and give it a try. I guarantee you will be hooked.