'Mate The Series' has been adapted from the novel Mate by Chao Planoy. The story follows complex themes, transitioning from friendship to love while spotlighting LGBTQIA+ characters and their emotional struggles. Unlike typical romance tales, Mate carries a darker tone, weaving elements of murder, sexual abuse, toxic relationships, and abandonment into its narrative. It's a story where the protagonists evoke mixed feelings—both admiration and frustration—adding depth and moral ambiguity to their characters.

Apparently it's the darkest of Planoy's novels. For the novel, with its intense and twisted storyline, Mate presents a challenging but gripping read. If the series faithfully captures the novel's intricate and provocative essence, it has the potential to become a standout hit in Thai GL adaptations. Only 2 episodes have been released so far and they are okay till date.

The casting choices, featuring Grace Budsarin Wonglelanont and Oaey Ponchanok Theerawan, are promising. These actors bring fresh energy to the narrative, which could enhance the story’s emotional depth. The narrative's exploration of vulnerability and emotional connections provides a strong foundation for impactful storytelling that transcends its GL identity, making it relatable to a wider audience.

Without giving too much away, Mate centers on two contrasting leads: Kenlong (often called Gen), the wealthy and seemingly aloof "ice queen," and Oengoei (nicknamed Aoey), a kind-hearted but underprivileged woman with a deeply traumatic past. Gen, initially skeptical of a fortune teller’s prophecy that she’d fall for a woman, finds herself unexpectedly drawn to a female, Aoey, her long-lost childhood friend from elementary school.Aoey is sensitive to touch since childhood due to her traumatised past of sexual abuse by her stepfather,and also her mother is her adoptive mom who never cared for her. Aoey, for some mysterious reason, gets closer to Gen, and Aoey Only likes when Gen touches Her. That's how we understand Aoey is into Gen. Gen also falls for Aoey, she tries her best to not to show her emotion and desire to Aoey but one day, she loses to Aoey and more hideous incidents take place.

Aoey's past unfolds gradually, revealing hardships that shape her vulnerability. While Gen is portrayed as cold and detached at first, her softer, more compassionate side becomes apparent as their relationship progresses. The dynamic between them balances emotional tension and growth, with Gen's transformation being a key aspect of their connection.

If you've read the novel, Mate, you already know how toxic and manipulative Gen can be and how deeply complicated and sensitive Aoey is. But that's the beauty of it—their flaws and emotional turmoil make them profoundly human. Also, the love they have is not a healthy one. Anyways, their imperfections drive the story, making it relatable despite its dark and twisted themes. Even if you haven’t read Mate and aren’t planning to, that’s perfectly fine—just follow Mate The Series, and the story will naturally unfold as you go along.Let the series surprise you—it’s all part of the journey!

Happy watching!