It's not a bad drama
, but I'm a bit surprised by such a high rating, especially compared to the Korean version. The story is interesting; for me, the best parts were the ones that weren't in other versions, but I watched the rest of the scenes with a feeling of being unsatisfied and of having seen better acting. The first few episodes were captivating, but after the middle, the quality dropped. The last episode was a travesty; the creators' solutions were so flawed that it was painful to watch. The acting was also mediocre, with only Rosylin and Gorya; the rest of the characters' facial expressions were limited to two or three. I've watched the Korean version five times, and I definitely won't be watching this one again.Was this review helpful to you?
Best version
This is the best version of the manga. However, I'm a bit disappointed in some aspects regarding Thyme's behaviour. I don't understand why they wanted to push this 'bad boy' agenda because it doesn't fit in. His anger is not an excuse for beating people, like in the first episodes where he would just casually beat anyone on the street. Obviously, when he tried to PUNCH Gorya was so f****ng wrong and inexcusable. But people still romanticise it/ try to excuse him (i literally saw people asking for the name of the drama just because of that scene).The actress is so good, considering the fact that it's her debut, i wouldn't guess. Thyme's actor was lacking in the first 2-3 episodes but he got on track. I think what I hate the most is the whole bullying thing. The fact that he used to bully her it's alone a weird position to accept to become close to your perpetrator. And she was severely bullied, PTSD thing. The first 2 episodes are nonsense to me and I think they just wanted to pay tribute to the manga but the way they retold the story was much better.
Gorya and Thyme relationship was wholesome (not considering the first episodes and the one when he tries to punch the sh*t out of her), so that's why I don't understand why they needed to make Thyme so violent when his character is still interesting even though he's not 'a broken child'. The whole poor-rich dynamic was itself satisfactory for their hardships in relationship so I don't see why he needs to act like a criminal.
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Better than I thought it would be
I must say I started it with preconceptions.I think the main problem I had with it was that it was such a hit.
I remember when it was released, everyone was talking about it and I could see it everywhere. Because of this, I think I just got bored of it and lost any interest I could have with this series. Plus it’s not really the kind of tropes I know I will like usually.
However, now that some times had passed by, I thought it would be the good time to give it a try.
And I was right. Because I really enjoyed it in the end.
The story is nothing knew to be honest. The poor girl with the rich guy, we’ve seen that over and over. However, there’s something about Gorya’s will to fight that made it really interesting from my point of view.
The F4 group also really made it all for me. Despite their little fight, I really liked how deep is their bond and how they care for each other.
The same goes for Gorya and Kaning’s friendship. They were so cute.
Finally, I found Ren and Gorya’s relationship really beautiful although it was that kind of one-sided love (deep down I wish she ended up with him).
MJ and Ren were really my favourite characters. MJ is exactly what I like. The mafia kinda vibe but with his heart on his hand and always caring/prioritising his friends. I’m really happy he got his happy ending at the very end. He totally deserved it. As for Ren, how could I not like him? I think he is the most cutest and selfless character I have ever seen in a series to be honest. I would give him the world if I could.
Nonetheless, it wasn’t perfect and definitely had its flaws. Some stuff like the huge acceptance of bullying and the behaviour of Thyme’s mom really gave me the hicks.
But overall, it’s a great story and I would surely recommend it.
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A heartfelt, funny and fast paced version of a classic tale.
This was the second version I watched of the manga. IMO the thai version is superior to the korean one. It has got a faster pace, concentrates more on the main plot, exludes the most ridiculous story lines or reinterprets them in a way they make more sense and move the main plot forward. The overall tone is way more comedic, the actors clearly feel like comic-characters. The main leads both manage to stay (fl) or become (ml) likable as the story progresses. They act well in almost all the scenes. The secondary characters stay a bit bland but are okay. I liked the emphasis on the boys friendship, the meaning of family and the true meaning of beeing happy. It's also satisfiing to watch that bullying isn't okay and that bullys should be held accountable.Thymes mother was also a highlight for me.
It was an enjoyable watch from start to finish.
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Thai-centric, faithful but modernised adaptation of the manga
The manga is a classic. Most, if not all, adaptations of it have been hugely popular since the 2001 Taiwaness series. I have read the manga series a couple of time but I have not finish a single adaptation until this one. And...1. The good:
- It's faithful. Many of the main plot points are well-kept. The portrayals are also straight up their manga counterparts.
- For me, Dew as Ren is the best Rui yet with good expressions and understanding of the character. Even his height and him being the tallest in the group add small but good details. I'm not sure about his voice though since I don't know Thai. Voice acting can play a significant part in characterisation. Somehow it feels somewhat lacking here?
- Akira is less prominent compared to the other F4. But his extra story has always stuck with me. So for this series to expand and place an importance on him as the "glue" of the group and the one who holds everyone together: seriously, good job! I remember MJ wearing moon brochure or some sort of jewel too, which is a nod to Akira being compared to the moon, gently watching over the whole group. I didn't watch the add-on story of him and the basketball girl, so no comment.
- It adapts. It isn't a play by play. It updates the story with modern youth problems and make it relevant not just to Thai society but broader.
- Compared to Yuuki in the manga and Gaeul in "Boys Over Flowers", I find the character of Kaning here adorable and much more likable. She actually puts efforts into helping Kavin and doesn't pine for him. Maybe it also helps that the actress is very pretty.
- I enjoy Tu's portrayal of Gorya. She is charming, cute and bubbly. I have read people complaining about her screaming on the rooftop. I didn't mind that one bit.
- I like the new addition of Gorya and Kaning working part-time and having fun with the uncle owner of the flower shop. The uncle is charming.
- I feel a bit bad about Lita's storyline though. I fell in love with her character here. Wish she had some more to play after her arc concluded. But if she stayed any longer, she would be too distracting to the main cast.
- The song "In the Wind" fits Ren and Ren/Gorya scenes to a tee.
2. The so-so:
- I didn't like Ki Bum's portrayal of Yi Jung or even Sojirou in the manga. But Kavin here is alright. The pairing of Kavin and Kaning also makes sense and cute.
- Thyme is stereotypically Tsukasa. Still pretty crazy and violent but caring and puppy-like. Better than Gu Jun Pyo. Okayish when it comes to manga Tsukasa.
- The parents are still annoying AF. But I guarantee, less than the manga...
- Tsukasa's sister and Shizuka receiving less attention here is a good thing. More focus on the main characters and stories. This series is only 16 episode, very compact.
- I have a love/hate feeling towards Thyme's mother. Cindy is stunning in person and ruthless in this role. She is better than any of the predecessors. She feels so right. But, the script snaps off her villain development. It didn't make sense. It wasted a good actress that if given better writing and development, her character might surpass even the manga's. As in, she has been a cunning and heartless businesswoman whose entire life has prioritised her family's empire above all, even her children, she can't possibly turn around with just Thyme suffering and lovesickness in the final episodes. He suffered so many times before, what makes this any different than the last? At least give some insights and explainations.
- Talay has a memorable arc and a fitting conclusion to the school bullying/violence reflection in society. I think his episode has the best view. But it's a bit too dramatised the acting for me. Good intentions, could benefit from better execution from the whole production.
3. The bad:
- Thyme turning from a playboy (as in he plays around a lot, not fooling around with women) to a successful young businessman after a year? Was he a CEO? VP? Habits die hard. People need years. No investors or board members would bat an eye at the sight of a pampered rich kid. It's their money, capitals and profits. Without good explanation, it's just pure fantasy.
- Decline in quality in the last arc of the story aka Gorya running away, Thyme gave up, Thyme suffering memory loss, etc.
- I don't buy any of that rich kids trying to change the world. Most likely, a gloss-over and oversimplification for younger audience.
- I still don't buy the troupes of "I can change him" or "with you in my life, I've changed". It's still contrived.
4. The fun:
- Plenty of comedy.
- The blatant commercials and product placements LOL.
Conclusion: Actually good and proper adaptation that falters somewhat towards the end. But still good.
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Clichés done well!
As cliché and predictable at times as this story could be, it was still very entertaining and oftentimes hilarious. Also the ads made me chuckle a lot because they were so obvious x)The cast was brilliant and acted their hearts out. The story was paced well except for one or two times along the way where I got a bit bored but overall it was good. The plot was good and I don't mind clichés when they still entertain me, but one or two plot points were placed oddly in my opinion and should not have been included as they just dragged the story on and irritated me. This is why I can't rate it 10 stars, but overall it was well worth the watch and I definitely understand the hype!
Side note, Ren has my heart, he's such a great character! <3
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A Modern, Bold Twist on a Classic
The Premise: Standing Up to the "Red Card"The story is set in a prestigious high school ruled by F4, a group of four wealthy, handsome, and arrogant boys. They control the school through a "Red Card" system—a game that encourages students to bully those who stand up to them. Everything changes when Gorya, a girl from a humble background, becomes the first person to truly stand up to their leader, Thyme, and his "Red Card" game.
The Message: Courage & Change
What makes this version stand out from the others is the powerful message it conveys.
The Fight Against Bullying: Unlike older versions, F4 Thailand goes deep into the psychology of bullying and the systemic power structures in schools.
The Power of Courage: Gorya’s character is a symbol of bravery. She shows that one voice can disrupt a toxic cycle and that true strength isn't about money or status, but about the integrity of your soul.
Redemption: I loved watching the "Red Card" system crumble as the F4 members slowly realized the weight of their actions. It shows that people can change if they have someone who dares to tell them the truth.
The Highlight: The Evolution of the F4 Bond
The Lead Couple: Thyme and Gorya’s journey is intense. Seeing Thyme grow from a spoiled "villain" into a protective partner was a highlight.
The "Trio" Energy: Like your other favorite dramas, the friendship between Gorya and her best friend, Kaning, provides a grounded, emotional core to all the high-society drama.
Cinematography: The production quality is amazing. Every scene feels like a movie, and the music—especially the OST "Who am I"—adds to the emotional weight of the story.
My Personal Take
This is one of the most amazing dramas because it takes a story we’ve seen before and makes it feel fresh and relevant for today’s world. It’s not just a romance; it’s a story about standing up for what is right, even when the whole world is against you
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Its a one time watch but really good... Watched for REN and GORYA..
Okay i really liked it, but its really not a rewatch according to me.I personally didn't like Thyme, he was really bad with his acting especially his hideous eyes, the way he does with his eyes, i wanted to like his character but i couldn't. Really expressionless.
Metawin was again good, thank God he wasn't as expressionless than his other series Beauty newbie. I really liked him, Flirty but sweet.
Gorya was superb, i mean she was so pretty in building up her character, her voice, charmness was top notch.
Nani played his character so well, I loved him, bold but good.
Ren was excellent, i really wanted Gorya and Ren together, coz i felt they really made a good pair. Wish to see them both in other dramas. I really liked how soft Ren was in this series, his charm, personality, everything was adorable.
Loved F4 friendship and family disputes.
I would recommend it to watch it at least once.
All the casts and crews were extremely talented.
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Overhyped
Boys over flowers was my first ever korean drama and my 7th grade self loved it. I tried to look for the same giddy feels in the chinese adaptation but couldn't find it. The Thai version was recommended by a lot of people which I watched it but honestly, it was pretty overhyped.Likes-
-Thyme's character development was the best in this adaptation. In most scenarios they were able to differentiate between the right and wrong and give a clear messaging to the audience that everything you do comes with consequences. If I recall correctly, this bit was not addressed well in Boys Over Flowers. They were too busy bringing out Gu Jun Pyo as the hero/ saviour/ messiah whenever Geum Jan Di needed saving.
- This version is much more realistic. It doesn't have the weird island vacationing bit and the bit where Jun Pyo is almost marrying the girl his mother picked for him.
- Gorya is a much better version of the female lead than Jan Di. Ofcourse there's the useless screaming and hitting for no apparent reason bit. But I kind of feel that her character didn't over do "oh look i am so cute, oink oink" bit. (sorry if i sound bitter, but i really dislike even the slightest manic-pixie-dream-girlification of female leads.)
Dislikes-
- THEY ARE IN SCHOOL!!!! Did these rich brats ever go to a university WTH?
- How does Kaning not know where her bestfriend's parents live? I know it when my bestfriend's parents even go for vacation!
- I know I said that Gorya's character is better than Jan Di but her character is still not great. In my opinion, she is very physically harsh. Like imagine a person who recently had brain damage and you are just forcing your love (or whatever the fuck that is), asking him incessantly to swallow a pill. What happened to all the love, kindness and delicateness which you were preaching throughout the entire series?
- Our boy Kavin liked a girl, never admitted it to her and never came to visit her when she called him to meet, went on with his life, meets this another girl, who is now going to every rooftop in the city and showing her sincerity, love and what not. WHY? WHAT DID THE GUY EVEN DO TO DESERVE THIS? WHY ARE WOMEN CHARACTERS ALWAYS WRITTEN WITH A "SHE IS GOING TO FIX HIM" ATTITUDE IN THEM?
- Gorya was on a sports scholarship? Did we ever see her do any sports????? Did she ever talk about sports????? Any sports metaphor atleast????
Having said all this, maybe I am too old now for a series like this. Maybe if I had seen this back in 7th grade this would have appealed to me. It's a better adaptation than Boys over flowers korean and much better than the chinese version because I couldn't even sit through one episode of that one. However, there are much better watches than this one in the market.
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Best outcome off an outdated concept
A far better version of the same old story. It still has problematic plotlines, but I don't think that can be avoided considering the root is already rotten. I'm really glad they changed up or omitted certain plotlines. The cast is studded with capable actors and the chemistry between the main cast is great, both romantic couples as well as between friends. The female lead as well as her best friend (Gorya and Kaning) are the best versions of their characters so far. The chemistry between Kaning and Kavin is so much better than in the Chinese version. The evil mother is also at her best (kudos to the actor, who is damn sexy, by the way.) Overall, it is a good one time watch if you have a lot of free time on your hand.Was this review helpful to you?
Perfectly beautiful production, distinctive set of characters who are well-acted overall, with ALL the tropes of the entire genre of shojo manga compiled together in ONE drama, but it still feels fresh and fun which is a good thing. ML goes through quite the redemption arc, which I always like to see portrayed. And they were right, the SML Syndrome is rather heartbreaking in this one~~ (I'm so glad that Yong Hwa has the perfect HEA he deserves in LADY OF DREAMS thank you Queen Gingell)
Very, very extra and somewhat campy. So be prepared for that. I already said shojo manga right~ But it's also gorgeous in production and cast (thank you for skipping all of the bad hair stuff of the other adaptations - but keep that terrible sense of fashion for Thyme), and serious and funny by turns, so what can I complain about (except a couple of nonsense stuff I don't care for).
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Masterful and refreshing adaptation
The absolute BEST Boys Over Flowers adaptation. All the cliches of the tale without the massive cringe and toxic red flags.Gorya and Thyme are easily the best part of the drama. Each stands strong individually in their personality. Gorya is the determined, headstrong FL who doesn't take any BS and Thyme is this dumb but well-meaning puppy in-love who actually has character growth. Their chemistry is adorable and it's cute to see how they went from enemies to lovers.
It's like the drama takes the very classic story of the arrogant, rich guy with the stubborn, poor girl, picked out all the flaws, and transformed it into this coming-of-age masterpiece.
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