Bad Buddy

Based off my personal rating criteria specifically made for BLs

1. Characters 9/10
+ I cannot express how much I appreciate the narrative consistency of Pran and Pat as characters. It felt like all their actions were extremely true to themselves as characters and they always felt like real people
- The friends were very much put on the back burner making them extremely insignificant by the end
- I understand the need for flawed characters but I don't think I can ever get over Wai's actions (I also hate the absolute childishness of Pran-Pat's parents)
=> the main characters themselves were everything I could ever ask for

2. Shipability 10/10
+ Their competitive dynamic throughout the entire show made for some intense tension that not only made me love to see them together, but also always put a smile on my face because the show made sure to show how much they cared for each other
+ Ohm-Nanon literally creates fan wars for a reason. I think their chemistry is unrivaled (let's forget about First-Khao for a moment) and they really sold just how much they love and care for each other. Seeing how much Pran-Pat loved each other made it impossible to not love them as a pairing
=> I cannot imagine any aspect of their pairing being better than it already is

3. Plot 9/10
- I personally feel like the faculty feud was excessive bordering on unnecessary. I get that it was the conflict to push the story along but I personally felt like it overstayed its welcome
=> overall, this is one of the best portrayals of the Romeo-Juliet trope I've ever seen

Read More

Bad Buddy: When Chemistry Becomes Art

I stumbled upon this series by accident while reading reviews for another drama on kisskh, where Bad Buddy was being praised to the skies. Of course, I couldn’t resist checking whether I had an overlooked gem right under my nose.

It wasn’t a gem. It was a diamond — and Bad Buddy truly is one.

I sat down to watch with certain expectations. From bits and pieces of other reviews, I caught phrases like “Romeo and Juliet” and “Enemies to Friends to Lovers,” and those shaped what I anticipated from the series. While the drama didn’t quite follow that exact path, I can’t say I was disappointed — quite the opposite. The story is straightforward and uncomplicated, making it hard to mess up. Two sons of feuding families, raised from the start to hate and compete with each other. And yet, some invisible force kept pulling Pran and Pat together — overcoming not only the shadow of family rivalry but also the competition between their university faculties. It was truly heartwarming to watch Napat and Parakul, as if against the entire world, drawn to each other with a force as natural as breathing. Their relationship was genuinely beautiful, embodying the very essence of Boys Love — two boys falling in love. There were no “husband-and-wife” role divisions, no weakening one character to strengthen the other. They were natural and, most importantly, completely believable.

The casting? Absolutely perfect. Nanon and Ohm were nothing short of brilliant. It’s been a long time since I was so captivated by a performance as I was by theirs as a duo. Their dynamic, how perfectly they matched each other, their passion during the kissing scenes — simply sublime. I haven’t seen a BL pairing this convincing and this masterful in a long while. Every interaction felt purposeful; nothing was left hanging. Huge applause for these two — honestly, I’d clap for them for an hour straight if I could give them a standing ovation.

The supporting cast was equally solid. The Ink and Pa subplot was beautifully done — warm, comfortable, and charming. A well-executed yuri story is never a bad thing, and paired with the main male couple, it worked wonderfully.

Musically and visually — no complaints. The cinematography was pleasing, the soundtrack fit perfectly, and everything came together into a cozy, engaging series. The costume choices were spot on — Pat’s Hawaiian shirts were a highlight in themselves, and Pran’s fringe deserves special mention for adding a million charm points.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely, one million percent yes. I’ll definitely be coming back to this one more than once. This series is a true diamond — not 100% flawless, but still one of the best Thai BL dramas I’ve seen. It earns a solid 9.5/10.

Read More

Healthy enemies-to-lovers

Oh man, this was incredible! The story, the tension, the relationships, the chemistry between the main leads, the soundtrack, the actors – all of it was so well-crafted and directed that it was truly enjoyable for the viewer.


I wouldn’t change anything about how the action developed. The transition from enemies/rivals to lovers felt seamless, with little to no awkwardness between the main leads. This fluidity only made it more enjoyable to watch, as it allowed me to fully immerse myself in their journey.


Someone described this as a ‘breath of fresh air,’ and I completely agree! It wasn’t just entertaining; it felt genuine, almost as if I were witnessing two close friends navigate the complexities of love. It made the whole experience more relatable and heartwarming.


So, overall, I definitely recommend this drama!

Read More

I usually despise a time jump!…

All the rave reviews are not wrong. This is simply an outstanding BL, even if some storylines or plot points could be considered recycled from many used tropes. Who cares! Bad Buddy does it well!

From two people who can’t be friends, to people who can’t be just friends. Though that seems like just your ordinary enemies to lovers scenario. Bad Buddy is truly the definition of that comfort show you’re looking for that does it better than even the best. I watch this stuff because I like it, and Bad Buddy was done so well that it made me love it.

All of it, beautiful to watch. It check marks all those boxes. The acting from the MLs is truly spectacular, which definitely boosts the whole show. But you see, Bad Buddy has that little something extra. It has a beautiful and meaningful message. Even if you can’t change the world, that doesn’t mean that you should let the world change you. Live your life how you want to! Find what makes you happy and do your best to avoid what causes you unhappiness. Everyone else can either deal with it or suck it.

But to my “time jump” spoiler. I am frickin sick of a years long time jump gap that seems to be trending in shows. And yes, Bad Buddy once again was like, trope it up! But seriously, it’s done so well. Other shows should take note that this is how a time jump is done!

So yeah, I recommend this show and I dare you to let me know if you’re disappointed. There’s just no way. (P.S. if you find a way, that’s on you…)

Read More

Defintley on my top 3

I watched Bad Buddy each Friday when a new episode would come out, but I decided after rewatching it a second time I would write a review.

The story was pretty unoriginal and has been done countless times. The enemies to lovers, rivalry, music, college. But Bad Buddy definitely did it right, and much better than a lot of BL's. I've watched this trope so many times and it usually felt boring and repetitive, but Bad Buddy did it so well, and made it unique in it's own way.

The BL wasn't too depressing and serious at times, though it was. There were also tons of humor and jokes that I actually laughed at! This is really uncommon since I almost always keep a straight face during "comedy" in BL. But when there were emotional moments like in episode five when Pran hears that Pat as a crush on ink broke my heart. Pran's tears and acting pulled my heartstrings, the acting was so amazing and I really felt the emotions of the characters.

The chemistry between the two was incredible, they picked the perfect actors since they were already friends, and it just made it not so awkward or tense feeling. The show had no cringey moments where I had to pause several times, or moments that were so awkward between the two. It was relieving.

Though the two had a bit of a toxic rivalry at first, once they started developing feelings and understanding their difference their relationship was so adorable, and not TOO unrealistic. There were no rapey or non-consensual acts, so I didn't feel grossed out. It made it so much better since there was no stereotypical bottom/top thing, they were both equal in the relationship and were both presented as masculine guys, which is hard to come across since there is almost always one that is more feminine than the other.

I also loved Ink and Pa's relationship, I really want a season two just with them because they deserved so much more deep dive into their relationship. They are so adorable, and I usually don't seek out GL since I am a gay guy, but they had so much chemistry and I had to keep watching for them since I loved them so much.

I didn't skip any moments in this BL, it didn't get boring, and I enjoyed all of the characters In this show. Except Pat's parents and the actor who played the rival rugby team player, who shot Pat which was so sad. (Of course, I mean their characters, the actors are incredible and did such a good job.)

The music was so good, that I literally searched up the names of the songs just to listen to them on their own that is how much I liked them. The music was spot on and fit perfectly, especially Pran's and Pat's song that they made in high school, it was so good I couldn't help but keep replaying it.

It was so good, 9.5/10 for sure, and I recommend it to anybody that loves this kind of trope.

Read More

Lost count of the number of times I have re watched this

Definitely goes to the top of my favourite bl series list...Hats off to Ohm Nanon for bring Pat Parn to life,their chemistry set the screen on fire. P' Aoff just continues to impress us with master pieces like this one . All the actors played their role in making this series a success. Bad Buddy never fails to lighten my mood and make my day with the amount of life like scenes. i'm especially a sucker for when Pat Parn act so domesticated . The ongoing light banter and fights between the two will always be something I look forward to while re watching. Also as a person who loves angst the forbidden love troupe is just soo....

Read More

this is a loooong review lol - after 4 years, i finally decided to make a review

when gmmtv released bad buddy series in 2021, it instantly became a standout in the bl genre—and for good reason. instead of leaning on tired clichés or melodrama, it gave us a story that was light, funny, heartfelt, and groundbreaking in the way it handled lgbtq+ themes.

the plot follows pat (ohm pawat) and pran (nanon korapat), neighbors turned rivals thanks to their feuding families. what begins as playful competition slowly grows into a tender love story, filled with witty banter, quiet longing, and the kind of chemistry that makes every moment between them sparkle.

ohm and nanon’s performances carry the series effortlessly. nanon gives pran a gentle but firm depth, while ohm brings pat’s impulsiveness and warmth to life. together, they create one of the most natural, believable romances in the genre—funny, vulnerable, and utterly captivating. the chemistry between ohm and nanon is undeniable; every glance, every smile, every argument feels charged with authenticity, making their pairing one of the strongest the industry has seen.

but what really made bad buddy special was how it challenged common bl stereotypes. unlike many series where characters feel the need to justify themselves with lines like “i’m straight, but i like him,” pat and pran never once questioned their attraction or identity. their love was treated as natural, not something to be explained away. the show also avoided the outdated “husband and wife” dynamic often assigned to queer couples—instead, it portrayed them as equals, partners who balanced each other beautifully.

the family angle was another refreshing touch. while pat and pran’s parents initially opposed their relationship due to long-standing grudges, it was never about homophobia. in fact, the show was clear that both families were perfectly fine with whoever their sons dated. the conflict was rooted in rivalry, not prejudice—a small but meaningful shift that set this series apart from many others.

the side characters added richness, too. ink and pa (love pansa and milk pansa) became an iconic sapphic pairing, bringing more representation and chemistry that resonated strongly with fans. their scenes, though fewer, were impactful and celebrated just as much as the leads. pat and pran’s friends also played crucial roles in shaping the story—wai with his protective loyalty toward pran, whose conflict with pat added layers of tension and realism, and korn, pat’s best friend, who served as the voice of reason and constant support. their involvement didn’t just fill space; it grounded the series in friendships that felt just as important as the romance itself.

another standout element was the soundtrack. songs like “just friend?” and “our song” didn’t just act as background music—they carried pat and pran’s emotions, narrating their hidden feelings when words weren’t enough. the lyrics mirrored their journey from rivalry to love, making the music feel like a second storyteller. it’s rare for a soundtrack to align so perfectly with the narrative, but here, it amplified every stolen glance, every heartbreak, and every moment of joy.

of course, the series wasn’t flawless. some pacing dips happen midway, and certain family conflicts wrapped up a little too neatly. but these are minor compared to the larger achievement: a bl that managed to be both entertaining and quietly revolutionary.


---

final thoughts: bad buddy series is not just one of gmmtv’s best—it’s one of the most important bl dramas of its time. it proved that love stories don’t need to rely on harmful tropes, stereotypes, or forced identity struggles to be compelling. instead, it gave us a romance that was equal, sincere, and full of warmth—supported by standout performances, unforgettable side characters, a soundtrack that beautifully told the story of pat and pran, and the kind of chemistry between ohm and nanon that feels rare and magical. years later, it remains a benchmark for how to tell lgbtq+ stories with both heart and respect.

even years after it first aired, the series still holds a special place in fans’ hearts. people continue to talk about it, rewatch it, and recommend it because it wasn’t just another drama—it was a love story that felt genuine, respectful, and timeless. bad buddy didn’t just set a new standard for bl dramas, it became a comfort show, one that reminds us that love—when it’s true—doesn’t need to explain or justify itself.

Read More

Bad Buddy...Great Series

I know you are all probably thinking to yourselves...how in the world is this girl only reviewing Bad Buddy now? I realize that this BL is a staple for all the BL fans out there...one held to the highest of standards, and even 4 years since its release it is still widely talked about. And you know what? With good reason. I put off watching this series since I knew that OhmNanon were no longer a pairing but then...I saw GMMTV's Starlympics 2024...and saw that viral moment between former partners Ohm and Nanon and everyone WENT CRAZY. It was all over my feed and their chemistry in just those 5 seconds were all I needed to say "you know what, it's time to watch Bad Buddy". So let's get into it.

Story/Themes:
What is there to say about the story? It seems simple enough right? Enemies to Lovers, a modern take on Romeo & Juliet, except switch out Romeo with goofy Pat (Ohm) and Juliet with proper Pran (Nanon). I think what makes this story not so mundane as the rest of the Romeo & Juliet remakes (besides it being LGBTQ) is the innocence of it and the deep dive they took on Pat & Pran's organic yet secret journey from rivals into friendship then love. It was fluffy and I loved that it seemed like a natural progression of realizing one's own queerness. Nothing seemed cringey, there was no queerbaiting, no "who is the girl in the relationship" nonsense, just two dudes who genuinely fell in love with one another and it was beautiful. I, for one, resonated with Pat the most, the way he came to terms with his bisexuality was very similar to how I came to terms with mine. I also loved that the series acknowledged bisexuality as an actual orientation and not just as a stereotype for people who are "confused" or "horny", willing to sleep with anyone. Pat only had eyes for Pran, once he had his eyes set, that was his person, and you know what....same. The last 2 episodes really tore my heart into pieces, that TWIST. They had me going there. I think what really sold it for me was that even though they think their relationship is a secret, their parents know they didn't actually break up but leave it alone. The tears I shed. It was hopeful.

Acting/Cast:
Oh my god, I honestly don't know how many times I cried over PatPran. Episode 5. Thats it, thats the post. The last 5 minutes of episode 5 I rewatched about 20 times, and it wasn't because of the kiss. It was because of the god d*** emotions that their kiss brought on. Pat coming to terms with his feelings for Pran, Pran realizing that the guy he secretly liked forever but had convinced himself otherwise liked him back???? Ohm and Nanon had me in TEARS. Their performance was unbelievable, the chemistry they both have with one another is truly other worldly. To the OhmNanon shippers that can't let that ship die.....I get it. I get it. Those two made me believe in love again, truly. Well done to the casting directors for putting those two together, even if it was for a little while, the magic they created together was worth it. Ohm and Nanon took us on a journeyyyyyy, their hidden glances, hidden touches, hidden gestures to each other really tied the story together. There is so much more I want to say about these two, but it was just perfect.
Their friends, Wai (Jimmy) and Korn (Drake) were great additions to the story. They were given just enough of a backstory to give the general plot a way forward without stealing the spotlight from PatPran. I will say the gag of the century was when Wai outed their relationship in front of the ENTIRE architecture faculty. Seeing that curtain fall and the mics booming with Pat and Pran's flirting, I was SHOOK. Wai did them dirty with that, for sure. He was a whiny little brat though when their relationship got out, I'm glad he got the f*** over it. Korn was actually really funny, I enjoyed Drake's performance of him, and loved that Korn was captain of the PatPran ship, being a supportive friend as soon as the relationship got out. Thank you for your service Korn.
The wlw couple, Ink (Milk) and Pa (Love)...I wish we saw more of them. They were cute together and I love that they were some of the only people who knew and supported Pat & Pran's relationship.
The parents.....the most annoying people on the planet. Like leave your children out of your problems my god.

Music:
A lot of Pat & Pran's relationship circled around music and their "anthems" or songs that reminded them of each other were so freaking cute. The song Pran wrote for Pat???? Sobbed. Also, I would like to point out that normally when I see a guitar in a BL series I brace myself for cringe. I pray to the heavens that the actor knows how to play it, and normally I am very disappointed. Not this time though. Not this time at all, Nanon did that. Heavens opened up and heard my prayer. We got an actor who can actually play the d*** guitar. Hallelujah.

Rewatch Value:
I am not quick to give out 10s. I have only ever given out one other 10 for another BL and this series has become my new favorite, and my new comfort show. I cried more than I have ever cried watching a BL. I cried tears of laughter, tears of joy, tears of sadness. My emotions went for a f***ing ride with this one. I highly recommend giving this one a watch or a rewatch if you are into the following:

-enemies to lovers trope
-actual musicians
-dimples
-tear soaked kisses
-xylophones
-secrets
-BEACH/environment friendly products
-smiley faces
-unhinged t-shirts
-photography
-fights
-family drama
-fluff

So yeah, I will def be rewatching this show again and again.

A BL masterpiece.

Read More

The most healthy relationship ever!!!!!!!

I’ve been watching BL’s a little while now and this is the first time i’ve seen such a good and healthy relationship between the main couple. It’s sincerely and honestly one of the best dramas i’ve watched. The friends to lovers story is hilarious and cute and sweet and so so so healthy. The characters development, the way the always talk and try to work things out in the most respectful way possible is sincerely amazing. Their friends are so damn supportive and they stay with them until the end, without ever questioning anything, without being such asssh8les. Pat’s sister is the most adorable person ever, the friendship between Wai and Pran is so supportive, so important, so beautiful. Koran’s character surprised me soooo much, he really is the best friend Pat could ever ask for, just like Wai is for Pran. Ink’s character is so important and amazing too, I loved and admired her so much. Overall everyone should watch Bad Buddies Series because is honestly one of the best BL’S out there. The actors who played the main couple have such a cute chemistry and they are frankly adorable. Everyone one in this show is cute tbh. LOVED IT.

Read More

It is really good but not perfect

It took me a long time to watch this series. First of all, the chemistry is really good and you really got into it. I didn't understand the argument between the two departments at all and it was a bit too brutal for me.
At first I thought the story got progressively more intense but I didn't like the ending at all. Why did four years go by, why didn't they change in the dynamics of the two families? It just didn't feel logical. Despite that, it's a pretty okay plot with good chemistry, so it's worth watching. I can understand why a lot of people are fans of it, but in terms of plot, it's unfortunately not a masterpiece.

Read More