This review may contain spoilers
I enjoyed it more then I thought
Honestly, I thought that this isn't exactly my type of series, but because everybody calls it a masterpiece, I decided to watch it, having very low expectations. But it was definitely not as boring as I thought that it would be. If you like I feel you linger in the air, you probably will like this, the vibe is pretty similar, but this is not as slow-paced imo.The first few episodes weren't that exciting, but after the whole "tea-mafia" (which I didn't expect at all lol) thing started, I was hooked. If I'm honest, I expect there to be a "super-natural element" because he has her heart, so I was a little but disappointed, but that's my fault for assuming that lol.
What I liked:
The setting in the village was very interesting and that's one of the reasons I enjoyed it so much.
All characters felt real, they weren't perfect or comically evil, expect Sakda (and to some extent Torfun but obviously they won't talk bad about the dead teacher they all loved).
The way they dealt with Sakda was realistic, in the end the police arrested them, Tian and Phupha aren't super heroes after all, but real people.
That Tian actually says that he is gay (or at least Tul said that) and no of the "I'm don't like men, I only like him". And I liked Tul.
The slow burn. The slow burn was the slowest slow burn I've ever seen from a Thai BL and I love slow burn in romance.
The music and cinematography were perfect to set the atmosphere in this beautiful village.
What I didn't like:
Phupha. At first I was annoyed by how arrogant Phupha was and how he treated Tian. After that he became nicer, but I was indifferent to him. Usually I absolutely love the stoic and cold kind of character (Tin from LBC, An Zian from Like Love, Korn form UWMA, even Ram from my engineer etc.) but I didn't like Phupha for some reason, maybe he was a little but to "bland" (but realistic), which I only noticed because he is in most of the scenes.
I didn't ship Tian and Phupha at all, I'm sorry. I shipped the Doctor and Tian, Longtae and Tian, Phupha and Torfun even, the Doctor and Phupha, Rang and Tian. I'm honestly not sure why, but I didn't really feel sparks between Tian and Phupha, only an emotional connection after both of them have falling for the other.
The way Tian "killed" Torfun. That seemed like it was only there to make the villagers hate him. Also, the way of him saying he killed her and then it was actually his friend felt really predicable, like ofc he didn't kill her himself, because I knew that the villagers and audience wouldn't have forgiven him then. But the show should have addressed how bad street racing is, (and definitely illegal in Thailand).
Why was Tian blamed for not telling the villagers that Torfun was dead. Why did the Ranger never say anything??? If anyone, they should have told everyone immediately, but instead Tian was blamed. (But he was rightfully blamed for being one of the reasons for Torfun's death). Honestly, I don't even blame him for not telling the villagers that he "killed" Torfun, I mean they would not have accepted them there and then he could not have fulfilled Torfun's wishes etc, which was his main goal. But that's probably an unpopular opinion.
The ending. I really expected a better ending than this, especially after how carefully this universe was build. It makes sense that they decided not to be together after Tian leaves, but then, Tian has to leave to the US and magically Phupha meets him at the airport and wants to be with him?? This was weirdly cliché for this kind of series. What about all the reasons they didn't get together in the first place? Yes, you could say he noticed that he can't be without Tian after being apart from him for some time, but I don't buy it, a guy like Phupha doesn't seem to change his decision easily. Also, how about their two year long-distance relationship(? idk if they were together or if he just "waited for him").
And did we all forget that they spied on the couple on the “dog howling night”, that was creepy and very weird and not even funny.
All in all, do I regret watching this? No, but it was beautiful and fun at times. In my opinion it is not the masterpiece everyone calls it though. Not my favorite, but definitely not a bad show.
Was this review helpful to you?
Best BL I’ve Seen
Alright, I’ve seen many BLs this past year, recently getting into them I’ve watched more than i can keep up with, seeing many types and storylines. With the repetitive school/engineer/mafia topics. This series was different. Everyone’s acting was so good it was as if I were genuinely feeling their characters emotions, especially Mix’s. His acting was tugging at my heartstrings, had me tearing up while watching it, so that’s how I know it’s good.I really enjoyed Tian finding his true self through out this. The messages in this storyline too, they were so well put out there. In fact, it had me thinking about my life, how i should be living for myself and not for others. It really got me thinking at the end and reflecting on many things throughout my life.
What I enjoyed as well were the little flashbacks to put the story together. At first I was a bit confused when trying to put it together, but that’s on me haha. It was nice to see how things played out in those flashbacks so we could get the whole story.
When I finished up with this series I decided to have my grandma watch with me, surprisingly she’s in love with the series. She had said the exact thing as me, mentioning how she felt characters emotions, the acting so good she was crying, etc.
I just highly recommend this series. I really enjoyed it and it takes me a good bit to get into a series, or even finish some because i’m nervous for how things play out, but this had me wanting more each episode.
Was this review helpful to you?
I'm not even exaggerating, this series is an over-all 10/10
10/10 STORY: When I watched the trailer, I thought I was never gonna like the series, that it's gonna be a boring plot about a volunteer teacher in a village, falling in love with an officer. Everything was new to me since I got used to university and office romance so i thought "how were they gonna pull this off?", I said there was no way this series will be able to get the viewers romantically thrilled/excited, mature and mountain theme will be booorinngg. But a few episodes in and I'm already hooked, wanting for more! It even exceeded most of the series that I've watched and love. I'm not even gonna say anything as I want whoever is reading this, having second thoughts if they should watch it or not, to go check the series for themselves.What i liked about it the most too is that it didn't need a second couple that would take up screen time just to try hard to give romantic excitement to the viewers, I love how the director knew that they didn't need that and the chemistry was so good that the main characters/couple was enough romance for the whole series.
10/10 ACTING/CAST: Great acting, great chemistry/ They were really capable of portraying their characters well that I'd forget that I was watching Mixx and Earth. They owned their characters and it was almost as if it was they truly were Phupa and Tian. Characters are very realistic, we got a stubborn kind-of-rebellious rich kid with a great character development by the end, and a very responsible, reliable hunk chief officer that everyone looks up to. I also love Tian and Phupa's supportive friends, most especially DOC NAM, which is by far, one of the best side characters of all-time. Also, nobody was toxic in the series so it was really refreshing.
10/10 MUSIC: Although it suits the theme, at first I was like "what's up with this flute music" but then I grew fond of it. It really served well as the series' identity.
10/10 REWATCH VALUE: this series is special, magical and a once in a blue moon experience. I'm glad that I got curious and watched it. Now it became one of my favorites. This series gave me happiness, thrill, sweet memories and lessons and I'm certain that it will have the same effect to the new curious viewers out there. I'm willing to re-live each moments/episodes over and over again.
Was this review helpful to you?
Such a dreamy series
This BL series is well-written. It is definitely my comfort series. Everything from the music, cinematography, and ambience was just so beautiful, warm and peaceful. All the actors were great too. I was very impressed with Mix, though he wasn't as experienced of an actor as the rest of the cast, he still portrayed his role as Tian pretty well.By the time it got to the end I was tired of Tian living his life for Torfun. I'm glad he was able to move on and live his life for himself.
Overall this series is not only magical and dreamy but Tian and Phupha 's love story is unique and beautiful, this BL will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Was this review helpful to you?
Different
I wanted to start this drama a while ago, because I heard it was really good. Since I wanted to build my own opinion about it I've finally watched it. And I'm glad I did it!The storyline of this drama is a bit different from what I'm used to watch (of course I'm talking about Thai cinematography). Making it fresh and new, consequently interesting.
I was captivated from the very first episode, I really enjoyed it. There is no place, while watching it, for boredom. I really recommend it.
Was this review helpful to you?
Its very deep and meaningful!!
after years I've never seen any good bl dramas as good as a tale of thousand stars, the thing I very love about this drama is their (earthmix) chemistry as a couple both on camera or off the camera. P'Aoff is amazing director, this series is undoubtedly beautiful, the story is out of the box and unexpected, the sound, camera, everything about this drama is amazing!!!. There are some plot twist in the story but they don't change the whole story plot either so its ok for me. To be honest this is the one series that if I could rewatch it like when I watch it for the first time 😭😭😭😭Was this review helpful to you?
A drama you will remember forever !!
I don‘t usually write reviews but for this i just had toI feel like no other bl can keep up with this one in my opinion it‘s so amazing in every possible way.
First of all the acting is amazing and we have to consider that mix is a rookie actor
The acting felt so natural and i could immediately empathize with the characters
The story was not like the „typical“ Bl story that is fluffy but nothing really to mention
I really love that there are many important and realistic topics mentioned that make the story so unique
This series had me tear up so may times and I’m not a person who starts to cry quickly it was the natural emotions the actors delivered that just make you fell emotional too.
In conclusion this drama is worth watching for everyone it‘s just a masterpiece i can watch over and over again without getting bored .
I hope for a second season so bad !
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
One of the greatest love stories of this era of BLs.
A lot of BLs prior to ATOTS had driving factors to their appeal. Some relied on the actors delivering heartstopping roles, while others used the story and plot to deliver a banger of a series. Yet, ATOTS has something that those that came before it lacked: a desire to connect and feel loved.Tian's rich boy ways and the events before the transplant makes you hate him. He's someone that should not have been redeemed and would make you feel like he is undeserving of that help. Even he knows it. But like Tian, we get to see that he is in fact a redeemable person, despite not having the actual skills to prove it. Leaving his life of comfort and happiness, he embarks on a journey to pay tribute to the person who gave him a chance at a second life. Much like a lot of Eastern philosophies, our redemptions are our truest self.
What makes this story good is that Tian shows us how much he wants to learn and prove to others that while he was the part of the reason for Torfun's early death, he wants to find redemption. It's a story of finding oneself and learning about the discomforts of the outside world. Not everything is easy and we must learn from our past.
On the other side, you have the "Chief" Phupa who has seen first hand the dangers of the real world and knows that one must stick together, espically in a community. He is tough and well respected, loved by the elders and the youth. He embodies a sense of "fatherly" vibes, coupled with his protective nature. At first, one would think Phupa and Tian wouldn't belong (typical). But, Phupa starts to see that redemption within Tian. He knows that while he might have more status and safety, he is willing to risk and learn in order to prove to others he too can make a difference.
This BL came to me at a time when I myself was thinking about my future, specifically wanting to teach. I saw myself in Tian (minus the rich and snob). I wanted to desperately prove to others and myself that I can do things on my own. That I wasn't weak. Phupa is like the ideal man, who will do what he can to protect all while allowing you to grow and be confident.
Kudos to this amazing story! EarthMix is one of my favorite couples.
Was this review helpful to you?
A slow burn that creeps up on you & steals your heart
This story (and the romance) is truly a slow burn. The impact of the sentiments from this story just slowly creeps up on you; and before you know it, your heart's been stolen.I really enjoyed watching this series! It's important to note, that I don't normally like slow burns so that's really saying something.
The acting and the cast of characters is fantastic. There's a lot to love here. Mix's acting in particular stood out with all of his micro expressions and Tian's sass. Khaotung was also soo cute.
I didn't love the pilot episode so if you're in that boat, keep going it gets so much better. ATOTS really played with my emotions; it had me laughing, crying, sobbing and cackling. All in the best ways possible and dealt out some pretty deep wisdom. Definitely unexpected and memorable. It left me with the feeling of hope.
My Rating: 9.26/10 stars
Also that song at the end about the wind was absolutely beautiful and fit perfectly.
Edit: I found the name of it! –> ลม (Wind) by Num Kala
Was this review helpful to you?
THEY GRANTED MY DREAM
Have you ever thought of what is like to live your dreams? As for me, ever since I was young, I've never dreamt myself living in a city. Yes, the city may be a place where everyone dreams of, but I found cities the busiest. Whereas, living in rural areas/province is a fresh breath of air. This series has made me realize that my dream isn't a shame.I love the sceneries that this drama showed. When I was young, I used to watch dramas with the same setting as this drama used. This is something new and different from all the dramas in this era. I think that this is quite risky but I applaud the writer/s for making this. The story should've been perfect but there are missing plots in this series. I don't know for sure if I am the one who missed those. We all know for sure that this is a BL drama and I will also mention that each episode is an hour long. I'm just wondering why the two main characters would easily fall from each other regardless of gender. A minute or two of uncertainty of the main characters would clear this matter but I failed to see this in the 10 episodes. We are still in the age of coping for the gender equality. It is not acceptable to fall in love with the same gender unless they were thought when they were young that love has no boundaries. I would have given this a 10/10 for story but let me rate this a 9/10 due to this reason.
As usual, I have no negative thoughts regarding Thai actors. As for music, there is nothing worth to mention.
Must-watch! Not your typical kind of drama and very recommendable to other watchers. But don't expect for any kissing scenes here because I think there is only one or two kissing scenes here. Nonetheless, this is still a beautiful romantic story.
(Note that suggested overall is 8/10 but I will still rate this a 9/10 due to different factors)
Was this review helpful to you?
The acting is so good.. Even the cliche romance make you excited n not cringe..
As an Indian.. and a kdrama watcher.. I found the plot cliche.. but the concept was so completely different from the usual doctor engineering college boys love.. also.. introduces to the traditional rural Thai culture in some bits n parts.. both the leading actors were so perfect for their roles.. the action scenes were a bit lame.. but the subtle blooming romance will give you butterflies... I personally have watched way too many Asian dramas n bl's that I cringe at the same old *looking in the eye to accidental kiss to all same romance*.. but the romance in this series gave me butterflies after such a long time even though it is the same cliche romance.. the chemistry between the leads is absolute killer.. after watching the whole series... I realised that a series could be so romantic even though the one n only kiss is the last scene of the series.. I'm definitely going to re-watch it..(also.. Tian is very very handsome.. 😛❤️)
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
A Prince playing pretend at being a Pauper
Not only was I disappointed - I was offended. Don't bring up a haunted past of a character that lost a parent when you only mention it twice in the drama and never again. Some people have had close calls concerning death and have lost loved ones - so this was just offensive, laziness, and irreverent. No thank you.Also - stop using the struggles, pain, and death of a female character as a catalyst for a gay couple! (Or any couple really!) Torfun doesn't deserve such disrespect! This reminds me of Manner of Death and I strongly disliked that drama too. Gave it 1.5 stars because it was bad and disappointing but it didn't offend me as much as this drama did.
If they wanted to be serious about the topic of death - why add unnecessary comedy, or an attempt at blatant romance or an idea of redemption arc - if you weren't going to follow through?! It's a rural setting in the forest, in the middle of nowhere with poor, impoverished villagers with a 'chaebol/prince' character doing community service for three months thrown in the mix.
Poor Torfun.
I feel bad that the village, the villagers, and especially the children are just plot devices to get the two main characters together. All of the drama was in the direction of 'get the two guys together - to do what? To be what? A causal attempt at drama/slice-of-life with nonexistent BL? (Why do Thai BL dramas sometimes have characters be attracted to the same sex like it's happened to them before but it never shows that evidence IN THE DRAMA AT ALL!?? Sexual fluidity is real you know?)
The romance wasn't even romantic and the plot twist in episode 7 was quickly shot down by the next episode when the drama couldn't go through with the idea of Tian actually being the one to kill Torfun directly in that car race. No. He's innocent of murder so let's focus back on the romance and his 'redemption' for the 'guilt' he feels for having Torfun's heart. Not the guilt of stealing medical documents he should have never been privy to, or lying about why he wants to volunteer, or running away from home after a HEART TRANSPLANT SURGERY BECAUSE HE ALMOST DIED - possibly worrying his family to death scared he can be anywhere dead in a ditch somewhere, or lying and manipulating to the villagers into thinking he can teach at all, or never telling the village doctor that he has to take daily medication that lowers his immune system?!?!
As a pre-med student - this hurts to watch. My head hurts from trying to follow the show's logic when the only logic is: 'get the two main guys together'. That's it.
It's not having Torfun's heart that Tian should feel guilty about - it's the fact that he's a whiny, sheltered, reckless, selfish, inconsiderate, spoiled brat that can't seem to do anything right. He almost had a child drown on his watch after numerous adults advised him to not take the children to the waterfall that day. A day AFTER Phu tells him that the waterfall is really close to the border and it's not safe to be at that waterfall unsupervised! Reckless. After some casual child-endangerment, back to the romance of Phu, the 'stoic' and mean Forest Ranger and Tian, the volunteer Teacher that means well???? I don't think so.
Imagine how good this drama could have been if the writers actually allowed the characters to be people with real struggles and real solutions to their problems. Tian is a horrible son and the actor for this character could not come through on the emotional scenes to make this character feel like a natural, breathing person with fears, hopes, flaws, dreams, and passions. (Was the only hobby he had before he found out he had a heart disease was playing with toy cars? What is the director thinking? Or is it the writer's fault again? Someone dropped the ball here unless everyone involved has butterfingers.)
Instead, his three facial expressions have to convey what's supposed to be happening and the music cues are supposed to help the viewers know how to feel because I can't tell what's going on when watching him on screen. Tian's parents are a part of the problem but their money is Tian's first solution to his biggest problems. Nepotism is strong in this drama. That and the social divide between classism and the glimpse into the socioeconomics in Thailand. Why bring up such topics if you will not address how bad it is and how as a society when we watch these dramas should feel about such injustice in the world. I guess it's not important if it doesn't concern the possible relationship between two guys, that's why.
If Tian creates more problems? Solve it with money or say you are the son of so-and-so to save your life. I wanted Mr. Sakda to kill Tian then. The drama would have finally been good then - but that's a terrible thing to wish on a person. Fictional or not, right? Right?!
I want my time back that I wasted on this drama. I want the writers to apologize to Torfun and all the other women in this drama for using them for plot devices (especially Tian's mom. She was just there to be dramatic and 'an overbearing mother', screw you writers!) and I want my time back. Once again, that's messed up.
Was this review helpful to you?
