The On1y One

Slow burn done right

While the premise of the story might seem very simple, and even overused or cliche, what makes it stand out is the execution of the story, the amazing chemistry between the actors the lovely characters and their electric dynamic that give you butterflies.

Both leads are interesting to watch and they also have their own distinctive personality that makes their relationship perfectly balanced. Jiang Tian, at first glance, might appear cold or distant, but in reality he has a heart of gold, he is very caring and considerate, but his guarded nature prevents him from openly expressing his emotions since he is afraid of letting others get too close, yet he seems to crave a profound bond. On the other hand, there is Shen Wang who seems to be more approachable and cheerful compared to Jiang Tian, but he also deals with his own emotions of sadness. At first they do not get along, but that is to be expected considering how their world is turned upside down due to their new family circumstances, yet they adjust quickly and they turn out to get along. Seeing their relationship, slowly but steadily, progress helps the viewer get immersed into the story and get attached to the characters. The gentle, quiet moments of connection makes their bond special and all the build up creates the expectation of leading to a very satisfying conclusion that we can get if season 2 is confirmed, nevertheless, the drama is still worth to watch, because even watching the build up itself unfold in front of your eyes creates all kind of emotions. The yearning in their eyes, the sparking tension, the unspoken feelings as their bond grows and gets deeper make for an excellent, sweet love story of two young kids who are discovering the world around them, while also learning more about themselves and growing as individuals.

Read More

I will go to war for these boys!

This show was the only thing single handily keeping me while alive for the month. The way I didn't even wait for it to be uploaded to an illegal website and started fighting vpn. Sheng Wang and Jiang Tian are my babies, anyone hurts them its on sight. Like, they're the most adorable pieces of fluff to ever fluff. Watching them go from this enemies, to friends, to being absolutely unreplaceable in each others lives was most amazing, heart-felt and masterful thing I've ever seen.

"From now on, I’ll eat lunch with you, I’ll live with you, and you better not regret it."

"To hell with regret." -- It started with this, and the build up to it was so well done I can't even express it. These two actors fucking carried and put their whole backs into it. And them as individual people were portrayed so well I could actually cry.

"I didn't pack my bag. It's been there all this time." -- At first, I didn't know what that meant. But then you hit me with this shit; "He started wondering about. He lived in whichever home had room. I often saw him carrying his luggage, staying here or there for a little while, never able to get close to anyone. No one could have him for long." -- I fucking cried man. Jiang Tian didn't deserve any of it. He was just looking for a place to stay, and something or someone to call his home. Then he meets Sheng Wang and his whole life orbits out of trajectory. He found what he was looking for, and he was going to keep it all cost even by hiding away his feelings.

"Because then it'll really become a place that belongs to you. Don't you think so? It's what you want, right? So I'll go with you!" -- I just know that is the exact moment when Jiang thought Sheng was his home. There were no need for words from him, you could just from his facial expressions and eyes alone that Sheng Wang is whole world and beyond. And when he finally found his home? I fucking screamed okay? SCREAMED!! "You're home. Welcome home." The way I actually bawled during this scene is not even funny. Frankly, it was embarrassing, but did I care???? NO! CUZ JIANG TIAN CRIED AND SO DID I. HE FOUND HIS HOME AND I WAS GOING TO SHED ALL THE TEARS NEEDED.

And Sheng Wang, his boy is a bundle of clouds. I wanna hug and aggressively shake him at the same time. The abandonment issues really stuck with this kid and shaped his whole being. And he used studying as his whole thing, keeping it as a shield because it's the only thing that will not disappoint him. Then Jiang Tian came into his life and boom! Everything fell apart and come back together perfectly. This boy is so deep in love with Tian and he doesn't even know it yet. I just know he'd physically be uncapable of surviving without him. "When I thought I was abandoned by the whole world, when I thought it was useless to work heard, I actually forgot that someone who had nowhere to go home to, was still making an effort for me, giving his best and his all to protect me..." -- Yall hear that? Yeah, that's the sound of me screaming, crying, throwing up. Sheng Wang you fucking precious child. I'm just so happy him and Tian found each other man.

And then comes the cavate of the show. Them being brothers. Like damn, this show was so wholesome I completely forget how they were brothers man. I went fucking feral when Wang called Tian "Ge." FERAL, I TELL YOU. I replayed that scene so many times it's unhealthy. Everyone and their blind grandma can see Tian is head over heels with Wang. Boy, when Wang said; "But... if my dad's proposal is accepted, we'll become real brothers. Will you be unhappy?" -- you can just see what's going in Jiang's mind. Boy does not want to be brothers bruv.

But then. BUT THEN. If that wasn't enough. THEY ENDED THIS SHOW IN THE MOST HEART-BREAKING ENDING EVER. People out here being like "they just changed classes, blah, blah, blah." BUT NO. THEY DIDN'T JUST CHANGE CLASSES. WERE YOU NOT WATCHING THE SHOW?????? Tian knew Wang intentionally fucked up the test, and thought he was leaving him on purpose. The home he so desperately searched for was leaving him intentionally. And then, on top of that, Wang lied to him about. The abandonment issues, the lying... bro, it was all resurfacing. This last episode broke me in ways I didn't think possible. And I'm still not over it. And to end it with this monologue?

"To be secretly in love is one's personal turmoil. Because I like you so much, I feel like I've been overly cautious, like walking on thin ice, to the point where I nearly forgot that I'm 17 years old. At this age, the whole world is mine. I don't have to hesitate, and I don't need to consider things. There's no obstacle I can't overcome, and nothing I can't do." This is a cruel and unusual punishment. Wang tried so hard to stay away, but bro, he cannot live out without his mans.

And season two being confirmed was the best thing my ears have been subjected to in the year of 2024!! IF THEY DON'T GET THEIR HAPPY ENDING I WILL FUCKING RIOT. I WILL NOT HAVE ANOTHER "STAY WITH ME", YOU HEAR ME?????

Now as to why this didn't get a 10 like it should have. First the ending. That automatically reduced the rating for me. And the main reason? The fucking teachers. The way I was using my skip button for them was insane. I did not give two hoots about them and I still don't. I honestly thought the two male teachers were dating, but apparently not??? I was just confused man. Their story line takes up more space then it actually needs to. Unnecessary, irrelevant, couldn't care less.

Read More

So close to perfection

This story is truly amazing as everyone did a wonderful job in portraying the characters. However, it felt short to perfection as we are left with some unanswered questions. And while there are talks for a season 2, I'm not sure that we are going to get a season 2. So, as such,I'm judging this on these 12 episodes that were presented to me and not what the future may hold for this series.

Due to this, I gave the story an 8 due to it not really giving a complete first season (to me), as it sets it self up for a season 2. I gave tha acting a 9, as the 2 ML's gave stellar performance in thier roles. I gave the music a 10 because the opening OST was just beautiful and I gave rewatch value an 8, due to the fact that while Ilove this series, I can't put myself rewatching this too often to feel like the ML's ending is not complete.

Overall, this series is a 9 for me. I just wished that it could have given me everything that I wanted for it to be a perfect 10.

Read More

I will wait for you

When I thought nothing could touch Unknown, along comes The On1y One, which effortlessly outshines any other for 2024. It's that great. Lead by the director Lui Kuang Hi who gave us Your Name Engraved Herein, nothing but an intense slow burn insightful unique piece of perfection should be expected. He definitely knows his art. With each episode he teases and plays with our emotions, giving the viewer the belief that with every other episode, we will be satisfied. We are not, we want more. He knows how to tell a story and tells it well. The script was mastefully brought to life by a truly gifted cast.

Wang and Tian's story unfolds in a way that shows with clarity the angsty teenage years. The urgency of emotions are hidden behind stoic facades that fool everyone but themselves. Their bond is unbreakable. One would think that the pouty Wang needs to be constantly taken care of, but we see that he is the one who creates a 'home' for Tian to feel safe. To rest the burdens he carries. Little by little their worlds fuse and being without each other becomes painful for them and us. The beauty of their relationship is the innocence and sincerity in which they hold onto each other. At 17, with past hurts, their emotional insightfullness is more mature than their peers.

Xi and Benny's relationship shows that at any age, love is hesitant, confusing and frustratingly emotional. They're both the other's anchor. With 15yrs of friendship behind them, they too struggle to shape what is truly between them. Xi sneaks moments to embrace Benny's acts of love without anyone knowing. Benny, hinting at his true feelings, is the one to actually bring to the fore what cannot be ignored any longer. His round hesitant eyes look directly at Xi, "I like you." I'm left to wonder, why Xi previously pretended not to know. Is he unwilling to lose an irreplaceable friend if something goes wrong? Has a past hurt made him cautious? Benny, I'm rooting for you.

Rather than putting every nugget that made this series gold, I will not. This is a series that everyone should experience with fresh unknowing eyes. I will say, the whole gamut of emotions will be felt. With the hint of a proposed season 2, I will be waiting.

Read More

The hype is not accurate to the content, but the show is worth a watch.

ᴍʏ ʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ ꜱʏꜱᴛᴇᴍ: 7.5 = [ᴘʀᴏʙᴀʙʟʏ ꜰɪɴɪꜱʜᴇᴅ, ꜱᴏᴍᴇᴛɪᴍᴇꜱ ᴅʀᴏᴘᴘᴇᴅ, ɴᴏᴛ ꜱᴏ ʙᴀᴅ ʙᴜᴛ ᴡᴏᴜʟᴅɴ'ᴛ ʀᴇᴄᴄ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜꜱᴇ ɪᴛ'ꜱ ꜱᴜʙᴘᴀʀ]

THE GOOD:
- The acting, especially in the emotional scenes.
- Some conversations were really well written.
- Casting was good for over all good quality actors.
- I liked the film style of this, some of the cinematography was great.

THE BAD:
- Too much filler. Could have cut a lot of stuff out and the point of the story would not have been affected.
- Boring/unnecessary side couple drama
- Ill timed music, ruined some of the emotional intensity.
- One sided ML simpage. I have always hated this. (As I've said in previous reviews, if the person being simped over is not Xie Lian or Wei Wuxian levels of simp-worthy, then someone chasing them on simp level is just off putting.) Sheng Wang was not deserving of having a simp level love interest chasing him imo.
- The final scene (after credits) in ep 11 was incorrectly placed, it should have been used when the issue of whatever effect it had on Jiang Tian was going to be addressed, it ended up being utterly pointless since it served no purpose in S01.

Nothing UGLY, really.

THE HIGHLIGHT:
- Singular. Andy Chen as Gao Tian Yang. Talk about casting a ML standard actor as a support character.

------

If they make a s02, I will watch it (because the acting is really good), but I do hope they drop the excess filler and keep the story in focus, even if it means a lower episode count.
As to the whole show, considering this is a high school (and falling for their 'step bro' complicated family issues/disapproval type) teenage romance, the whole thing more or less adds up to a sensible, passable ending, but only if there is a sequel, otherwise, the ending is open ended in a totally pointless way.

I can't rate it more than a 7.5/10 though, because personally, the drawbacks (BAD) mentioned above were not compensated for, even by the great acting. Especially the biggest ick for me, JT's continually increasing level of simpage. It was off putting, I mean, having a mini emotional episode because his crush moved to a different classroom is just, well, sad. And not in the 'aw sweet' way, in the 'ugh, seriously?' way.

Over all, it was not a waste of time to watch this, but it took some patience. It'll suit some viewers tastes and press the patience buttons of others, but whether you skip through filler or watch every scene, it is worth a one time watch. I would very softly recc it, if you have the free time.

Read More

It's a cliche plot step-bro romance but it's so worth it.

This one is my very first Taiwanese BL. I'm quite shocked as well like it's 2024 and this was still my first one from Taiwan? I've known History long before but Idk why I still didn't watch it. It was pretty much hype back then. It's been so long since I've been inactive watching BLs. Tho I've been reading danmeis when I wasn't active with BLs.

Anyways, let get right into it. First of all I really love the overflowing chemistry between the two— Eric and Benjamin. The characters suit them well. Eric did a pretty good job with facial expressions. I know I'm biased but I really love his eyes and when he pouts it melts me. He's way too cute being a 30 yr old. Benjamin. He's good as well. He handles it well. I'm not good at this I'm sorry *sobs*. They're both doing well in terms of acting and delivery. I mean, you can't deny it. You can clearly see what their eyes are telling you. It looks simple but is quite well delivered. The plot is cliche. Addicted has it as well. But this one is a lighter version. Tho they are pretty much similar. I've read the novel of this as well.

Read More

We need Season 2

"The Only One" season 1 left us on a cliffhanger, a bittersweet symphony of emotions that resonated long after the credits rolled. While the finale was beautifully crafted, leaving us with a sense of closure and a glimmer of hope, it also left a gaping hole in our hearts. The unsaid words, the unspoken feelings, the lingering tension between the two protagonists – it all culminates in a heart-wrenching climax that begs for resolution. The chemistry between [Character 1] and [Character 2] was palpable throughout the season. Their interactions were filled with unspoken longing, a dance of attraction and avoidance that kept us on the edge of our seats. We witnessed their individual journeys, their struggles, their triumphs, and their vulnerabilities. We rooted for them, we ached for them, and we yearned for them to finally acknowledge the undeniable connection that bound them together. The ending, although poignant and well-executed, left us with a sense of incompleteness. The final scene, where [briefly describe the final scene], left us with more questions than answers. Did [Character 1] truly understand [Character 2]'s feelings? Did [Character 2] finally realize the depth of [Character 1]'s affection? The ambiguity of their final interaction left us craving more, yearning for a resolution to the unspoken emotions that simmered beneath the surface. We need season 2, not just to see how their story unfolds, but to experience the catharsis of seeing them finally confess their feelings, to witness the culmination of their journey. We need to see them navigate the complexities of their relationship, the challenges they face, and the triumphs they achieve together. We need to see them embrace the love that has been brewing for so long, a love that has been tested, tried, and ultimately, strengthened by the trials they have endured. The pain we feel after the season 1 finale is a testament to the power of "The Only One." It's a reminder that we are invested in these characters, in their journey, and in their happiness. We are not simply viewers; we are invested participants in their story. We need season 2 to provide the closure, the resolution, and the emotional satisfaction that we crave. It's not just about the story; it's about the characters, their journey, and the connection we have forged with them. Season 2 is not just a request, it's a necessity. It's a chance to give justice to the emotions we have experienced, to see the characters we have grown to love find their happily ever after. It's a chance to finally see the love story we have been waiting for unfold, a love story that has been brewing for a season and is now ready to blossom. We are ready for season 2, and we are waiting with bated breath for the moment it arrives.

Read More

Excellent

The On1y One is a serious, gut-wrenching coming of age drama about the sexual awakening of two teenagers under very difficult circumstances.
Tian is traumatised by his parent's divorce and the shocking exposure to his father's secret which leads to conflicts in his heart and years of internalised self loathing. He considers himself to be essentially homeless, keeping a suitcase packed and ready to be on the move at any moment.
Sheng has lost his mother and lives through a lonely childhood grieving his loss.
They need to come to terms with their parents relationship and somehow start building a new family together.
Their tentative friendship gradually starts to turn into more. They negotiate this new path, forging a friendship which is deep and sincere despite Tian's early reservations. They find a tethering in each other which gives them a sense of belonging, a sense of home in each other.
As they realize their romantic feelings, Jian and Sheng deal with their feelings of shame and guilt differently. While Tian comes to term with his feelings, Sheng withdraws.
Sheng's withdrawal cuts into Tian's core, opening the very same wound he had helped in healing.
Season 1 ends on this heartbreaking note.
The series is beautiful, both visually as well in the powerful emotions it inspires.
Each and every actor has played a nuanced role giving us a sensitive glimpse into the pains of growing up. It is a story of sexual awakening which reminds us how delicate and painful it is to be 17.
Looking forward to season 2 of this excellent drama. Kudos to the entire team. ❣️❣️👏👏

Read More