This review may contain spoilers
An Intriguing Adaptation with a Stellar Casting
I pondered endlessly on how to best handle this review. Should I make a detailed comparison between the Thai and the Japanese versions? Should I compare the acting calibers of the main pairings in both versions? And ultimately, which version was better?Seemingly confused and baffled by these questions, I realized that the best option was to review this show as a separate entity. Adapted from the manga series “Cherry Magic! Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?!” (30歳まで童貞だと魔法使いになれるらしい) by Toyota Yuu (豊田悠), the Thai version is a rustic adaptation of the original work (be warned, it isn’t a remade version of the Japanese adaptation). As such, it has a flavor of it’s own and needs to be savored as the main course and not a side dish. When I first saw the official trailer starring Tay Tawan & New Thitipoom, I was slightly apprehensive. Having watched them play the main lead in “Dark Blue Kiss”, I knew they have a phenomenal chemistry. As veteran actors, you can’t condemn their acting skills. My worries were related to the fact that I absolutely loved the Japanese version. Akaso Eiji and Machida Keita left a memorable impression in my mind, and I was unsure if TayNew could recreate the same magic. Let’s address the elephant in the room as we talk about the other pairings as well!
Read the complete article here-
https://the-bl-xpress.com/2024/03/05/cherry-magic-thai-series-review-ep-3-to-12/
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Overall reveiw -cherry magic
Cherry magic drama are overall good. I am consider acting, The chemistry of Achi and Karan characters is a good mix up. The first parts felt a bit boring, but then it ended very successfully. The story was perfect effect, video quality was outstanding level. Simply cinematography was at the same level. The flow of emotions between Pai and Rock showed well in the story. But Min and Jinta's characters were not enough according to me. My feeling is that Jinta's character acting in some places interfered with the flavor of the story. As a fantasy story, the story can be viewed without any stress.Was this review helpful to you?
A must watch if you are interested in a stable build of a Love story
A thai adaptation to the manga CherryMagic 30yrs of virginity.. i love how they've truely adapted thru the manga without much alternation to the actual story. I loved how the story of Karan & Achi started from being hidden crush of each other to finally being in a relationship. I love how Karan has a crush over Achi for so many yrs yet waits paitently for Achi to accept his love. He won't give up on Achi but won't force him either. Achi being shy timid guy can't imagine Karan the smart sexy top employee of the company to have a crush on him ... has finally accepted his love. I know it took them 9 episodes to finally kiss but the wait was worth it. TAYNEW absolutely brought in all of their feelings and emotions ! Brilliant !!!Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
A MAGICAL DREAM COME TRUE FOR A POLCA LIKE ME♥
Everything is Magic Indeed !I don't know where to start to be honest but let me just say that this is a dream come true drama for every POLCA or POLCASAN in the world, and as of me, I cried just seeing Tay Tawan and New, playing the role of having a romantic feeling for each other, coz I have been watching them on some shows as a friend and I dreamed seeing them as a couple ! and even I know it was just a fiction, it was just a drama, this people didn't know how happy I was watching this, It's like I am having a moment on the world of TayNew or Karan Achi and this was the first time as far as I remembered of me crying out of happiness on my watching of a drama ! like after watching this drama, I didn't know what to do with my life anymore, I just wanted to stay in the world of Karan and Achi , and it's like after seeing this drama I didn't want to watch any drama anymore coz it feels like no one could ever beat this drama out there for me, and of all the drama's I have watched this seems like the finisher, like what more out there is to watch ? Cherry Magic chanted a spell in the drama world and finished it all ! This drama is created indeed for every Polca , forget the story, forget the characters Tay and New kissing , loving each other ! it was heaven for a Polcasan like me and I believe it is the same with every Polcasan out there in the world ! I am crying, so this is what it feels like to watch a drama that you ever dreamed watching and a drama that you have waited for so long, coz I know every Polcasan out there knew how long we all have waited for this to come ! this is just so special and magical and memorable to us, I can even hear the OST in my head RN!
About the Story,
In my opinion and experience watching this, this version completed what the Japanese version lacked, specially in romance, and in every remarkable parts or scenes of the story itself, they gave it a different outcome, we cannot really compare the Japanese and this one because they are totally different for me but they both gave a beautiful outcome, story and vibe, in Japanese I had this feeling like I am expecting more romantic things that Adachi and Kurosawa will do but ended up like , oh that's it? okay! but Karan and Achi filled the story with romance and I literally had butterflies in my stomach, love overflowed from their hearts to the screen that made me cry so much. Only what the Japanese excelled more here for me is the weight of the scene, I don't know how to explain it but Thailand is more light and fluffy than of Japanese but over all different in every way and both beautiful adaptations
This series as I have mentioned is so light and fluffy and very easy to understand, it was quite predictable in some parts but since it was elaborated differently it was really good also ! I was actually waiting for the scene where Adachi got sick and Kurosawa carried him and brought him home here coz that is one of my most unforgettable scenes of the Japan version but they changed it, it still okay since I was really impressed how they elaborated every small things that Karan was doing for Achi that his love for Achi over flowed in my heart, in this adaptation it's like all we ever have to do is to enjoy the lovey Dovey TayNew, believe me because I was too focused and too entertained to Tay and New playing this, I never realized I watched almost all the episodes !
They added some characters here, it was okay for me coz if some of the watchers over there who gets tired easily of the faces of the leads , those added characters and side couples were a great balancer, not really a fan of Pai and Rock but they were so cute ! Pai as the main shipper, Rock as the innocent cute newbie , and P'Duj ! love her , I also love Jinta and MIn here, Jinta did really a great job, super nice acting, he is the best actor here, he was full of emotions and a fluffy person ! indeed Min is his good match. New Thitipom gave a new image of Adachi for me, Adachi of Japan is like he looks dumb but is a very helpful and passionate person, but here Achi was like a very delicate, passionate also, and someone who is a smart and capable person that needs only a little push--thing that Karan did to him !
My favorite parts are when Achi was sent to a certain place to be a representative or manager of the newly opened branch of the company, when he was on video call with Karan, asking him for advice how to manage people, and then asked Karan to sing for him, and then he fell asleep, for me this scene was everything, I was touched, I cried and had to stop for a while from watching to cope up with that, I believe that was on ep 11, and so many more ! love the cheek kisses, the shoulder kisses ! and the double proposal ! the wedding ! such a total package of a romantic love story
This drama is not the usual, it set up a high standard for me, now I don't even know what to watch, like, is there still drama out there that can make me feel happier than this drama ? from the OST that is my playlist since it was released, the production, the cinematography, I can clearly say that people behind this drama prepared well and enough, loved the screen writing, I was really impressed also that they also used the sound effects of the Japanese version here when Karan and Achi had an argument, very nice ! and now I officially declare and announce that this drama will be my Favorite BL in the world no one will ever and nothing will ever over take it, unless There will be another BL of Tay and New will be released that is more romantic and beautiful as this, but as of now, this is my favorite of all in the world !
All in all it indeed magical ! As I have mentioned, I can really think this is literally made for every Polca, so I want to thank the people behind this drama specially Taynew, they never fail to make me happy, I was honestly in a lay low of my fanning for them but I still held them in my heart, I did not regret doing it because what I hoped as wished during the Divorce era happened now and now I don't know where can I even get into fanning over them but I'll just enjoy every moment of it. So yeah the Drama was a Magical adaptation, the story fit well to the numbers of episodes it was complete from dating to marrying , not rushed , understandable, not too trying hard, beautiful in its own way, I would probably re watch it many times in my life , and I will be joining with what Phi New Thitipom wished, it is that I hope also that every people in the world will watch Cherry Magic !♥♥♥
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Fun for in between
I liked it.This drama resembles a pure and healthy relationship. It is neither rushed nor unrealistic. Even though I couldn't adapt to the storyline at first and thought that the idea of a mind reading power was quite weird, I'm glad that I continued. The story isn't complicated and it is perfect for watching in between all the other currently airing dramas. Though I hadn't seen any of the actors, except for Mark (btw he's great), in any other series they were able to convince me.
I really recommend it:)
Also the cuddle scenes were extremely cute<333 and not repetitive:)
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Love for all!!
As someone who has watched the Japanese series recently, as in finishing it right when this started airing, this series is a watch I couldn't miss out on!!As the anime and Thai adaptations were being released at the same time, GMMTV had to put the series for Thai viewers only. But did that stop some of us? NO. I watched this on so many websites that I've lost count. I WANTED TO SEE TAYNEW!!! I finished watching the JP version, started the anime, and started this all at the same time. It felt like I had deja vu.. BUT That's okay because this story may just be a favorite of mine.
This story portrays Achi, a average office worker, who suddenly gains the power of mind reading with any physical contact at the age of 30. Karan, someone born with everything, right? Except being able to make the one he loves, fall for him. Until.. Achi bumps into Karan and suddenly hears his thoughts. Karan, the best worker, most handsome, most popular, is in love with him?
TayNew will never disappoint me honestly. No matter of I've seen all of their series or not, they are the IT couple!!! There weren't many side characters that made me upset, surprisingly..
The side couple, Jinta and Min, are CUTIES!! I loved that couple in the Japanese one and I do in this one!! Mark (Min) is just a cutie overall and I'm glad to see him on screen. Although at times, just like in the JP ver, I had to take a moment before continuing the scene. Cringe but fun!!
This series overall was great, just like the Japanese series. If you need a wholesome love story, this is for you. I love TayNew and can't wait to see more series of them!!
P.S. the cat? CUTEST ONE OF ALL!!!!
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Shockingly better than the Japanese version
I am so glad TayNew are selective about their shows. Dark Blue Kiss had a pretty realistic, decent story (compared to most GMMTV shows, it actually seemed to be set in real life, rather than a fictional BL universe.) That sense of realism exists in this show too.I am surprised this is better than the Japanese Cherry magic adaptation, and for me personally, it is due to the side couple. I actually never even finished the japanese version because of them (i think due to the age gap, it was icky.) This time, even they are wholesome. Junior is hilarious in his role as a shut-in. But he is relatable sometimes, he is nerdy and socially awkward but not mean or creepy.
Even more of a sign of how good this drama is, the secondary het couple is also really cute. I found myself rooting for Sing's character and actually shipping them! This is such a cute show.
It is shocking how inconsistent GMMTV adaptations can be. F4 Thailand is also the best version, but Love Mix Up was so badly made that I was hesitant to try this. Good to see this is equal in production/writing to the Japanese version but surpasses it due to the secondary storyline being improved.. Seriously, 10000/10. If you want to introduce somebody to BL, this is the show. Can't get better than this. So surprised. I wish GMMTV consistently made shows like this.
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This review may contain spoilers
Cherry Magic Thailand: A Dash of Thai Spice with a Whole Lot of Charm
When GMMTV announced a Thai adaptation of Cherry Magic starring Tay Tawan and New Thitipoom, my excitement shot through the roof. Having seen them in more dramatic and intense roles, I was thrilled to watch them step into a lighter, magical romance. And let me tell you, they didn’t disappoint.Based on Toyota Yuu's manga Cherry Magic! Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?!, this adaptation follows Achi (New), a thirty-year-old virgin who discovers the quirky ability to read minds through physical contact. Things take a turn when Achi accidentally uncovers his charming and flawless coworker Karan’s (Tay) secret: Karan has a major crush on him. What ensues is a heartfelt and whimsical journey as Achi learns to navigate his powers, his feelings, and the magic of love.
- A Thai Twist on a Beloved Tale
What makes this adaptation shine is its seamless integration of Thai culture. From the bustling cityscapes to the subtle nuances of workplace relationships, the writers smartly localised the story while staying true to the manga’s heart. These changes weren’t just for show—they added depth, making the story feel fresh and uniquely Thai.
The chemistry between Tay and New is undeniable. Tay, as Karan, is a revelation with his playful inner monologues and pitch-perfect comedic timing. New, as the reserved and awkward Achi, brings just the right mix of campy charm and emotional vulnerability. Together, they create a relationship that’s both hilarious and deeply touching.
The supporting cast also deserves a round of applause. Junior and Mark, as the secondary couple Jinta and Min, were a delightful addition, and their expanded storyline added layers to the narrative. Even Sing and Jan, as Rock and Pai, offered an intriguing subplot that left me wanting more.
- Visuals and Vibes
From the vibrant cityscapes to the meticulous attention to detail in the workplace setting, the series is a visual treat. The soundtrack is the cherry on top, perfectly capturing the whimsical yet emotional tone of the story.
- Heartfelt Themes, Relatable Magic
At its core, Cherry Magic Thailand is about personal growth, empathy, and the beauty of connection. Achi’s journey of self-discovery and Karan’s unwavering support are beautifully portrayed, showing how love can flourish even in the most unexpected circumstances.
- A Few Quirks but Loads of Heart
While the series is impressive, it’s not without its hiccups. Minor continuity issues—like Mark’s hair color changes—could distract eagle-eyed viewers, and some moments felt a bit rushed. Still, these quirks are overshadowed by the heartfelt storytelling and stellar performances.
Final Thoughts
Cherry Magic Thailand is a standout adaptation that blends magical realism with authentic cultural flair. Whether you’re a fan of the original or new to the world of Cherry Magic, this series will leave you smiling, laughing, and maybe even shedding a tear or two.
It’s more than just a rom-com—it’s a testament to the transformative power of love, friendship, and a little magic. So, grab your popcorn and let Tay and New whisk you away into a world where even the ordinary can become extraordinary.
And with that, may we all find a little magic in the everyday.
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Candid Charms of TayNew
"Cherry Magic," the Thai adaptation of the popular Japanese BL series, introduces Achi, an ordinary employee who discovers an extraordinary power on his thirtieth birthday – the ability to read minds through physical contact. Portrayed by Newwie, known for his role in "SOTUS" since 2016, it's evident that he has grown as an actor, delivering a commendable performance. His chemistry with Tay, who plays the charming colleague Karan, brings freshness to the screen, particularly for me who's accustomed to seeing Newwie with Earth (my last BL with Newwie starring on it)Tay's portrayal of Karan is engaging, although lacking a point of comparison since I haven't seen him in previous dramas. The storyline follows Achi's struggle to navigate his newfound ability, especially after unintentionally uncovering Karan's feelings for him. While the Thai adaptation stays faithful to the original premise, there are moments where the pacing feels sluggish, making some parts of the series less captivating.
One aspect that stands out is Newwie's handling of intimate scenes. Despite his experience, there's a noticeable awkwardness that detracts from the authenticity of those moments. However, it's worth acknowledging that this could be a result of various factors, including character dynamics and personal comfort levels.
Overall, "Cherry Magic" offers a decent adaptation for fans of the BL genre, with strong performances from its leads. While it may falter in pacing at times, it's a refreshing addition to Thai BL dramas, showcasing both familiar faces and new talent in the genre.
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JUST TAKE THE 10 STARS MAN
Did this drama make me-Happy? Giggle? Squeal?
Anxious? Cry?
Happy-cry? Sad-cry?
Fulfilled? Content? Satisfied?
YES IT DAMN WELL DID
Mature? Yes; Sensible? Yes; Perfect? DEF FOR ME
I can't believe I'd been sitting on this absolute gem of a show. I didn't realllly wanna watch this because- idk, idk why. Maybe the superpower-trope made me not wanna watch this. But guys, the superpower trope is done really well in this one, it's goood it's goood - there's no trouble over it. I AM SO GLAD THAT I HAD EXAMS RIGHT NOW AND GOT THAT FEELING OF WATCHING ANYTHING AS LONG AS I DIDN'T HAVE TO STUDY, and I just used a wheel-picker to select what drama I'd watch. SPLENDID PICK. Stop hesitating and watch this yall
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A nice adaptation but could be better ??
✨ Spoiler Alert ✨As someone who absolutely loves the Japanese adaptation, I could not help myself by comparing every nanosecond of the Thai adaptation to the Japanese one because for me the Japanese version is pure perfection. While it is unfair for them that I am comparing the two adaptations, I know they mostly based the series from the manga which is the original source and I kept trying to remind myself that while watching this series because some elements and decision makings in the Thai version I am not that fond off that the Japanese adaptation did better. 💁♂️
Let's start with what I like: 🙃
GMMTV choosing Tay and New as the pairing for this version and for me that's probably the smartest because the pairing has the this kind of faces that just suitable for office set up/environment (and if not them, the second pairing I can see is Jimmysea but that's just me). New's acting here is not his best acting to be honest but he did a really good job portraying Achi's clueless and innocent expression and Tay as Karan is where I am a bit confused with because Tay looked like he held back a lot from doing so much more but that is probably just me because I knew what Tay is capable off.
The adding of the much more side characters (the boss and the female manager(?) really bring the office environment much more livelier than the Japanese version and I appreciate that even though the characters are not necessary at all for plot in my opinion.
The casting of Junior and Mark as the second couple. this for me is probably my favourite part of the whole series because I have mixed feeling of the casting they did for the second couple for the JPN version. their chemistry is really nice to see as a couple and not realizing it, I mostly stay for them instead of the main couple.
Let's move on to the what I dislike: 😔
One main problem of this series is the pacing, watching it, I did not expect them to cram the plot where Achi had to go to another department and Achi and Karan getting married because the JPN production made a whole movie for that. This is a problem because for some reason Achi's character development in this version is much more tone down for my liking. this is just a miss opportunity because they didn't need to cram the whole plot in 12 episodes that some characters' growth are cut short. The pacing was really nice until episode 7 I believe where every drama and climax got thrown at the same time.
talking about cramming, I HATE the choices to make Rock and Pai a thing because in the JPN version Fujisaki(which is JPN version of Pai) decided to be single because that is what best for her and that idea alone is such a fresh air in this story where everyone ended up with someone. one thing about gmmtv I don't like is they keep making having a partner is the end off all thing, which is stupid. This whole subplot of Rock and Pai is just so unnecessary personally because they could have spend those time improving Achi's growth as a person instead
one finale little thing is how Karan(Tay) somehow got overshadow a lot in this series by other characters, maybe it is a me problem but I just can't get involved with his as a character which is weird because he's there for like every second of the series.
Personally, I prefer the JPN version and if you never watch it, I highly recommend it BUT this version also is nice even though there are a lot of improvement that could've been made which is a bummer because this is like first TayNew BL series in three years I believe since Dark Blue Kiss. my final say is it is a cute adaptation and they did a fine job with what was given (the time limit, the script, and stuff). would I recommend, sure if you are curious, watch it but if you are someone like me who adores the JPN version, do not expect much. 👔🐳
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I didn't have faith in TayNew and I was wrong to doubt them
A soft charming warm hug of a show about crushes and mind reading and self worth that really worked for me. With no-fuss execution from a consummate team and an OG lead pair (proving why they remain eternal and deserve to grow up).Look, here’s the thing, Cherry Magic is a great Thai BL in its own right - not comparing it to any other iteration. But even when I do compare (and I've seen all the Cherries and read the manga) it stands strong.
I, personally, like the Thai BL slightly better than the Japanese live action yaoi, but I think that’s because I just really enjoy Thai BL's style and I LOVE TayNew (who may be my favorite OG branded pair still in operation). Also all the kissing was both present and better in this version. As it should be from Thailand.
Highly recommended.
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