Love Upon a Time — A Beautiful Journey Across Time That Was Worth the Wait
I've always had a weakness for stories about travelling through time and past lives. Whether it's in novels, manga, manhwa, or dramas, there's something fascinating about two people finding each other across different eras. Love Upon a Time reminded me exactly why I enjoy this type of story so much. I already loved the novel, and thankfully the adaptation captures the same emotional feeling that made the original so memorable.The story balances romance and fantasy beautifully. Rather than using time travel as a simple gimmick, it explores destiny, second chances, and the idea that some relationships are powerful enough to survive the passage of time. Every discovery about the past gives new meaning to the present, making the romance feel richer with every episode. It never becomes confusing despite the different timelines, which isn't always easy to achieve with this kind of narrative.
I also appreciated how faithfully the series respected the novel. As someone who already knew the story, I never felt that the adaptation betrayed the source material. It understands that the emotional connection between the characters matters more than spectacular fantasy elements, allowing the romance to remain at the centre of everything.
One of the biggest surprises was the pairing itself.
Net Siraphop is already an actor I enjoy watching, but seeing him opposite JJ Radchapon wasn't something I expected. I still remember them talking about filming this project during DMD Friendship: It Takes Two, long before the series finally aired. Knowing how long the production took made finally watching it even more satisfying. Despite my initial surprise, I quickly accepted them as a couple.
JJ, in particular, surprised me. Before this drama, I never naturally imagined him in a BL lead role. His public image and the content he was known for gave me a completely different impression. None of that mattered once the series started. He fully convinced me as his character, and his chemistry with Net developed naturally enough that I completely forgot my first doubts after only a few episodes.
The production also deserves praise. The historical settings are beautifully recreated without feeling artificial, the costumes fit the period perfectly, and the cinematography constantly reinforces the nostalgic atmosphere of the story. The soundtrack may not be unforgettable, but it quietly supports the emotional scenes without ever becoming distracting.
Final Thought
Love Upon a Time is exactly the kind of drama I always hope for when I see a story involving time travel and past lives. It respects its source material, tells a touching romance, and creates a world that's easy to become immersed in. Net Siraphop and JJ Radchapon turned out to be a pairing I never expected but genuinely enjoyed. Sometimes, the biggest surprises become the best casting decisions, and for me, this was one of them.
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Beautiful and Moving Romance across multiple lifetimes.
Subjective Gut Rating: 8.25Is “Love Upon a Time” the next “I Feel You Linger in the Air” that I am searching for? Close but not quite. It’s hard to find a good historical Thai BL that I like because I want something serious without too much comedy and overdramatic acting. “Love Upon a Time” was close but it didn’t quite hit the mark, especially with the execution and storytelling of the mystery.
Romance
I really like the main romance and that’s what kept me interested throughout the drama. I feel that it was developed naturally and at a good pace. It’s pretty clear from the get-go how the handsome green flag Phop feels about Klao. Even when he was stern, you can tell from Net’s beautiful big eyes the affection he has for Klao. This is my first drama of Net as a main character, and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. The care, concern and affection he showered on Klao throughout the whole drama is what we want from a romantic lead. The romance hit the highest point for me in episode 7 when emotions and stakes are high. I love their emotional heart-to-heart conversation under the moonlight at the corn field so much that I was inspired to write my first episode review. Their kisses were lovely, so gentle yet passionate. The NC scene was beautiful and sensual. Add to the fact that Phop asked for consent! How sexy is that?? If you are a romance-lover like me, you will be satisfied with this main romance and all the shirtless scenes that Net has.
Secondary Romance
Their story is actually very interesting as it ties to their past and present lives. I enjoy seeing that connection. However, I think the execution could be better with better distribution of screen time.. I was having a little hard time getting into their story because Kaew’s hairstyle in the first third of the drama bothers me. I know it’s petty but having his hair all gelled up is not a good look for him. Additionally, Latte’s acting as Jom is the weakest of the group. He was better as college student Thi, then esteemed physician Jom.
Acting
As I mentioned earlier, Net really surprised me. I am so in love with him! JJ on the other was not bad but his facial expressions tend to be quite drama during some scenes (even non-comedic wise). Is that how he was directed to emote? Or was it him? I am also watching him in “The Next Prince” now, and his portrayal there is a lot more natural. Kim did a pretty good job as the more effeminate Kaew. I am not sure if he’s like that in real life, but he’s more girl, gentle and feminine than I am! Latte, on the other hand, is having a hard time being the stoic and esteemed physician. His expressions often feel uncomfortable and hesitant. But as the college kid, Thi, he seems to be back in his element. The rest of the supporting cast all did a pretty good job. I was especially glad to not see any overdramatic, gossipy and boisterous servants, who seem to be a mainstay in many period Thai dramas.
Fantasy/Mystery
I think the drama gave us a decent explanation of the fantasy. At least, I understand what happened and can believe in the reasoning they gave me. This is not always the case with fantasy drama, so for that, I think “Love Upon a Time” should satisfy most viewers. The drama does use an interesting angle to explain the fantasy and reincarnation theme through the lecturer of a time-traveling class. This could be a fun course to take in college! However, the mystery investigation was unable to hold my attention. Maybe because I love the main romance so much that I didn’t really care who killed who, and who’s corrupted. I just want to find out what happened to Klao, and that’s it. This could be a “me” problem or could be the writing.
Production
I love the production. I especially enjoy the use of natural lighting, just lanterns, candles and moonlight, without artificial bright white light. The costumes are beautiful for the men and women. The fight scenes are better than the shooting scenes. Seeing a topless Net fight is a beautiful sight.
Overall, I had a good time watching “Love Upon a Time”. I was also glad it gave us sufficient time back in the present timeline to close out the drama and tie up loose ends. The ending was not rushed and did not leave us with more questions than answers, like “I Feel You Linger in the Air”. The overall acting is not bad, even if it’s not excellent. I will recommend this if you are interested in checking out a period Thai BL with a strong romance focus.
Drama Completed: 6/13/2026 Review #693
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This review may contain spoilers
?️ Some Souls Are Destined to Find Each Other Again
Honestly, one of the things that makes Love Upon a Time so interesting is its focus on destiny, past lives, and how our actions can continue to affect us even when we don't remember them. For those who believe that certain people are meant to meet again and again across different lifetimes, this drama feels especially meaningful.The story suggests that some of the things we experience in our present life may be connected to choices made long ago. Whether it's recurring misfortune, unexplained connections, or a feeling that you've known someone before, the drama explores these ideas in a very emotional way.
What makes the story even more fascinating is that Phop had already experienced that past life before Nakhun arrived there. He already knew what had happened and understood the connection between them. In the past, Nakhun was known as Klao, while Phop was simply Phop. In the present, Klao is Nakhun, and Phop becomes Tinnaphop. Because Phop already knew the truth, he wanted to get close to Nakhun, but if he had approached him too directly, their destinies might never have become intertwined the way they were meant to be.
I also loved the side couple, Jom and Kaew. Kaew is portrayed as a feminine young man living in a time when that was far from accepted. Despite the pressure and judgment surrounding him, he remains true to himself and only truly values the opinions of the people he loves. His story adds another emotional layer to the drama and shows the challenges of being different in a strict historical era.
What I enjoyed most about Love Upon a Time is that it doesn't just tell a love story. It explores fate, reincarnation, second chances, and the idea that some connections are powerful enough to survive across lifetimes. It makes you wonder whether some events in life happen by coincidence or whether they were always meant to happen.
I won't spoil too much, but if you enjoy stories about destiny, past lives, soulmates, and love that transcends time, then Love Upon a Time is definitely worth watching. It's emotional, thought-provoking, and surprisingly heartfelt from beginning to end. ❤️🕰️✨
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This review may contain spoilers
Love Upon a Time: A Place I Visited, Not Just a Series I Watched
ove Upon a Time ended up being everything I hoped it would be and more.After production delays, recasting, and significant changes from the original pilot, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. What I got was a beautifully crafted historical fantasy romance that completely swept me away.
What surprised me most was how playful the series was. I expected something far more serious, but JJ's performance as Nakhun injects the perfect amount of humour and chaos into the story. Honestly, if a Gen Z university student suddenly found himself 400 years in the past, I would expect him to react exactly like this. His exaggerated expressions and comedic timing never felt out of place to me. Instead, they made him feel human.
Net and JJ are phenomenal together. Net brings warmth, emotional depth, and quiet strength to Phop, while JJ fills Nakhun with charm and life. Their chemistry is undeniable, and by the end of the series I was completely invested in every glance, every conversation, and every moment they shared.
What truly impressed me was the balance. Love Upon a Time is simultaneously a romance, a mystery, a period drama, and a fantasy. Remarkably, none of those elements overshadow the others. They weave together naturally, creating a story that constantly keeps you engaged.
Visually, the series is stunning. The rivers, landscapes, traditional homes, costumes, and historical locations all contribute to a world that feels rich and lived in. The production quality is among the best I've seen in Thai BL.
And then there's the finale.
What a finale.
It's the kind of ending that feels earned. After all the love, heartbreak, danger, sacrifice, and longing, the final chapter lands with enormous emotional weight. Long after the credits rolled, I was still thinking about it.
More importantly, this series achieved something few dramas ever manage. It didn't feel like I was watching a story. It felt like I was living inside one. I wasn't simply observing these characters—I felt present alongside them.
I'll carry Love Upon a Time with me not as a show I watched, but as a place I visited.
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Awwww, a time travel romance done so right
Short and sweet - I loved this show.I looked forward to every episode, and they gave us the best, sweetest ending without a last-ditch plot drama, as most shows do. Smiling so big for Phop and Nakun and how the show was sewn up with all the little mushy moments.
And Nakun's mom!! Loved this detail.
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LUAT takes BL to another level
the super intricate plot of this historical drama is so well executed over the course of 12 episodes! part murder mystery, part romance, part period drama, part sci-fi—there’s so much going on, but everything is perfectly paced. The setting and costuming are so beautiful and lush, and the language really immerses you into the story. NetJJ and LatteKim did an amazing job bringing the characters to life. the actors in the supporting roles were also well cast. I highly, highly recommend this show!Was this review helpful to you?
breathtaking masterpiece
I am very strict when it comes to raiting, but I can’t even find a single bad thing about this show. The cinematography is breathtaking, the plot is very well thought of, thr music is beautiful and has immaculate vibe that perfectly fits to the show. While watching it I have not felt bored even for a second, even tho the episodes are more than an hour long, and I often get bored while watching 40min ones. The acting is amazing too, the show is at times funny and sad. it is just perfect. This series has amazing production and is visibly done with a lot of thought and care. For sure one of the best shows I have ever watchedWas this review helpful to you?
A Story of Love that Transcends Lifetimes
I have never written a review on here before, but I felt I had to for this show, as it has become my new favorite BL to date. This was the most achingly beautiful love story told in such a perfect way. I was hooked the moment the show started. The atmospher, lighting, writing, directing, editing, cinematography, production/sound/set design, wardrobe/hair/makeup, etc, were all top notch. I could feel the love and care that went into this show with the attention to detail and level of authenticity. And don't even get me started on the casting, acting, and chemistry! I fell in love with these characters and their relationships with eachother. I adored them and was heavily emotionally invested in their journey and their happiness. This show truly did have it all. It was funny; it was serious; it was romantic; it was breathtaking; it was mysterious; it was heartbreaking; it was sweet; etc., etc. I felt anything and everything while watching this. The story was so meaningful and one of the only BL's that actively made me cry (for various reasons). This is one of those shows that stays with you after it's done and is one I will absolutely come back to and watch again and again throughout the years. I appreciate EVERYONE who was involved in making this show become a reality 🧡Was this review helpful to you?
The cast was fantastic across the board, but JJ especially stood out. The chemistry between Net and JJ was spot-on. Their interactions felt natural, sincere, and believable. JJ, though, completely blew me away. He gave way more than I expected, and I can’t wait to see what project he and Net take on next. The final episode wrapped everything up perfectly, leaving us with a beautiful message. Highly recommended!
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one of the best time travel bls
netjj portrayed PhopKlao/Nakhun so good, it was like everyone was teleported into the story. I love how they gave them a whole episode in the present time and not like some kdramas where the main leads meet again in the last 5 minutes. The OSTs were so meaningful and they fit the vibe of this amazing story. I would gladly rewatch this drama again. and I also love the way they actually even gave some theory about time travel and the plot twist at the end, showing that Phop made everything possible was mind-blowing.Was this review helpful to you?
STANDING OVATION FROM MY SIDE O'LORD
DOMUNDI HAS DONE IT AGAIN.... said by someone.I have yet no words the Creatiome such as beautiful as this has been made that is not year 2020.
i was certain that 2020 was the best year for bl as many great bls were released at that time.
Obviously we still have may great series after that year but still. few only reached 10/10
this creation of art is not a series it's an emotion.
background music ✅ so good so comforting so suitable.
Acting ✅ 10/10
Net JJ served it damn.
Story ✅✅✅✅ A timeless beauty.
The vibe ✅✨ Fantastic
this game me such a A tale of 1000 stars vibe in sense of comfort.
this series was such a warm embrace.
the character LORD PHOP was ✅ was such a green flag. All the characters served it. I loved this series.
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Love Upon a Time: A Beautifully Crafted Series with Outstanding Chemistry
Love Upon a Time is a drama series that truly leaves a lasting impression. From the very beginning, it manages to create a strong, beautiful, and captivating atmosphere. One of its biggest strengths is the incredible chemistry between the two male leads. Their connection feels very natural, powerful, and convincing, without feeling forced or cringe at all. Every interaction between them feels genuine, emotional, and easy for the audience to connect with.The main actors deliver excellent performances and bring their characters to life with sincerity and depth. Their acting feels expressive yet never excessive. The supporting cast also plays an important role in making the story richer and more engaging. Each character adds something meaningful to the overall world of the series.
In terms of production, Love Upon a Time is also visually impressive. The costumes are beautifully detailed and perfectly match the tone of the story. The atmosphere, locations, visuals, and language are all handled extremely well. Every element feels carefully thought out and works together to create a very memorable viewing experience.
Overall, Love Upon a Time is truly an amazing project that deserves more recognition. It stands out not only because of its story and characters, but also because of its chemistry, acting, visuals, and overall atmosphere. I highly recommend this series to be aired again, as it is genuinely outstanding and deserves to be enjoyed by a wider audience.
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