A Gentle, Magical Start That Feels Both Refreshing and Emotional
After 1/4 of the year is gone, finally our first Taiwanese BL for 2026 did not disappoint. Wishing upon the Shooting Stars is already proving to be one of those series you just feel connected to from the very first episode. Two episodes in, and it has completely drawn me in with its soft, emotional storytelling and unique concept.The premise is honestly one of the most refreshing I have seen in a while. A simple wish turning into something so life changing adds this quiet magical layer to the story. Watching Xiang Yong live under a second identity as Zhong Xiao You is not just interesting, it feels deeply personal. It is less about fantasy and more about rediscovering yourself, your worth, and what you truly want in life.
What makes this even more special is the setting. No flashy city lights, no over the top luxury, just a peaceful hometown that feels warm and real. It is such a nice change from the usual BL settings, and it makes every moment feel more genuine and heartfelt.
And then we have the romance. The return of the high school crush already has me invested. There is something so soft and nostalgic about their dynamic, like unfinished feelings slowly finding their way back. It is subtle, but you can feel the chemistry building, and it makes you want to keep watching just to see how it all unfolds.
The acting so far has been really solid, especially in the quieter scenes where emotions speak louder than words. The music fits perfectly too, adding to that dreamy, slightly magical atmosphere without overpowering the story.
Overall, this drama is off to an incredible start. Unique plot, strong emotions, comforting vibes, and a romance that already has my heart.
I am genuinely so excited for the next 10 episodes. Who else is already obsessed?
Rating will change after the next 10 episodes, but so far a 9.5/10 for me.
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First Impression: Wishing Upon the Shooting Stars
Overall: enjoying the vibe of this series. 12 episodes about 35 minutes each. Airing on GagaOOLala, https://www.gagaoolala.com/en/videos/6336/wishing-upon-the-shooting-star-2026-e01 (not available in Japan, Taiwan or Korea); Viki https://www.viki.com/tv/41438c-wishing-upon-the-shooting-stars#about and Youku https://www.youku.tv/v/v_show/id_XNjUxNzIyOTU1Ng==.html ; and iQIYI https://www.iq.com/album/wishing-upon-the-shooting-stars-2026-1ytj5n9hiid?lang=en_usContent Warning: I'm not sure what it exactly was, you can start episode 1 at 1m5s to skip it
What I Liked
- ocean side, small-town vibe
- supportive uncle
- some mystery
- a character who was forthright at the end of episode 2
Room For Improvement
- I was a bit confused who the two characters were in the flashback but I think I have it figured out
- nervous about what is real and what isn't
- nervous there was a poor communication cliche in the past
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Taiwanese BL Comeback?!
This has the potential to resurrect Taiwanese BL, which hasn't popped off lately. You'll first notice the high-end cinematography and color grading matched with a beautiful island town backdrop. It's eye candy in every scene. And every character/relationship has a bit of mystery to their backstory. The touch of supernatural elements while still being grounded in reality is the final cherry on top.Besides that, the acting, writing, and perfect sound effects are great. There's no wasted fluff. Though at this point I don't feel the chemistry between the 2 leads, I'll give them the benefit of the doubt as it's only ep2.
I have high hopes for this one and will update with new thoughts!
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