Quality Production by ALL THIS Entm
(full disclosure: I’m a writer and have been writing for a long time and so I am very nit-picky about storyline/plots, etc. I have reviewed shows professionally for entertainment magazines.)To start off the cinematography is pretty amazing! Both director and director of cinematography are so incredibly in sync that the story being told is so clear. The cut scenes showing flashbacks to present day are a smooth transition and easy to follow. sometimes flashbacks are confusing and don’t make sense, but not in the first episode. the long shot in episode 4 with Ryu’s first big play during the scrimmage game was done so well that viewers feel like they’re right there in it.
Overall, the production has been very impressive in the first 4 episodes.
Now for my biggest praise: the acting. Meen Nicha and Ping Krittanun have seriously upped their acting chops! Their acting coach for the show, Yokee Apirak, has turned them into truly believable characters. There is no denying that Meen and Ping have incredible chemistry, but as Freshman actors they were still noobs and finding their way through awkward line delivery and behaviors. But in the first episode alone it’s clear how much they have grown and evolved as actors and I am so incredibly proud of them. Their line delivery works so well, their banter is real, and the chemistry pops off the screen. I’m looking forward to more from Frank and Nammon as well as the entire cast.
Now the story— I have to say this is one of the best (at least for the first 4 episodes) BL sports stories I’ve seen to date. Most are not very believable and rarely even show the characters playing, it’s usually just a by-product of the character and not a central theme. In The Rebound though in order for this story to be told you needed real players and actual action footage of games being played. The choice in actors was imperative to tell this story and they chose right. I am enjoying to slow progression of the storytelling because it does not leave the viewer confused and scratching their head. They give us just enough to grasp what’s happening without giving it all away. The buildup of the interactions between Ryu and Zen is fantastic and the introduction of Atom is great. These first 4 episodes have kept me locked in and I will continue to stick with it because I must know every aspect of who Ryu and Zen are and who they will become by episode 12.
Highly recommend following this show!
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I'm in LOOOVVVEE with The Rebound!!! Spoiler Warning - More then watchable for me
I'm in LOOOVVVEE!!!Spoiler Warning
I'm loving the chemistry between the two. I'm just fucking up for Meen and Ping. They develop and get better every time they get paired for another BL together. They are a team and have a friendship that doesn't need words and we get to see that in this series. I'm still sad this series is over now but also exited for what's coming next. Loving and the happy ending, and I literally cried in the last Ep, this series showed love, anger, jealousy, trust, commitment, family problems, great basketball games, teamwork, the buildup of friendship, love, the will to fight for their dream and great brotherhood of Ryu and his bro. Oh, and so much more. For me, it has really gotten into my heart. All of them really gave their characters a life. Everyone can be proud of this masterpiece. I'm surely gonna watch it more than once!
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Better than I thought
I hesitated to watch since it's a high school drama- I thought we're over the school BL era? LOL...But, I gave it a try since it'll be one of the 1st sports BL that I watch and boy, did I love it so much!I finished watching in 2 days, it's refreshing since it's just something new in BL scene- sports drama- i love the sportsmanship, the team value, the spirit they have. I especially love how they raise money for the team which is so inspiring to watch. Of course, I love RyuZen-totally shipping them from episode 1
It's a narak narak kind of BL- no NC or real kisses, just cute puppy love which is fitting for a high school setting.
Everything is great except this part that I can't overlook. The street basketball drama that Ryu got entangled into was overly done. I mean, how can 2 high school students witnessed 5-6 people being killed, and they just moved on with their life next day happily playing basketball, like nothing has happened. This is not only not realistic, it might have send a mixed message or signal to the audience. Murder isn't something that is to be overlooked like that, even if it's self-defense in this case. It's a bit contradicting on how they're keeping the show innocent with the amount of non-existence NC, and yet they've this violence part that's sending totally different message
Beside this part, I really enjoy the drama as a whole- like it's just lighthearted, fun, and exciting to watch. I love the chemistry of RyuZen. And boy- Ryu is gonna grow up as one fine hot man for sure!
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Not perfect but an enjoyable watch
I truly don’t understand the bad reviews for this series. Yes, there are some unrealistic plot lines, but isn’t that true of most dramas? This isn’t going on my favorites list, but it was an enjoyable watch from beginning to end. Some touching family/friend/sports moments and a sweet romance. There were a some very funny parts too! Meen and Ping’s acting has improved significantly, and many of the supporting actors were great in their roles as well. When I heard that Golf was the director I had high hopes, and it did not disappoint. I recommend giving it a try!Was this review helpful to you?
They have the chance to slam dunk the ball but miss a lot of shots
It was a treat to see MeenPing play in a sports-romance drama. Yet, it is still inconsistent with several revelations happening one after another, to the point that it gets messy.Things I hated (Cons) :
- Cringe exchange of lines and overused fluffy scenes
- The gang and the guns. It ended so fast with no consequences or explanation that took place after the killing. Not to mention that it wasn’t a good choice of storyline to add to this kind of genre.
- Everything happened during the EPs when the coach was pushed to quit the team. Lacks creativity in exploring other better scenarios.
- Ping’s dramatic acting. He needs to attend more acting lessons.
- The pairing of every single character. At least one side couple is enough.
- The start and the ending.
Pros:
- The chemistry and the love triangle. The sole reason why I didn’t drop the show.
- The visuals.
- A few episodes from the middle part of the show.
That’s it. It was just merely average.
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OKAY WHAT IS THIS????
Alright, let me just say this upfront: I WAS SKEPTICAL AS HELL ABOUT THIS SERIES. Why? Because MeenPing’s track record is... let’s just call it “iffy.” Their previous series had me snoozing on the couch, drooling into my popcorn. BUT GUESS WHAT? This one? GAME. CHANGER.I’m actually obsessed with this series. No one’s more surprised than me. Who knew basketball drama could be this entertaining? The plot revolves around Ryu, your typical bad boy who’s softer than a marshmallow when it comes to Zen. Ryu’s out here playing basketball for the cash (relatable), and Zen’s all, “No, sweetie, we play for the love of the game.” Zen is such a positive lil’ bean, but let’s be real, even his sunshine vibes can get overshadowed by his *own* overthinking. Classic.
Now let’s talk about Ryu for a second. This man is fighting his feelings like his life depends on it. Meanwhile, Zen is all, “I like you, duh.” But Ryu? OH NO. He’s in Egypt, swimming the Nile with his besties *Denial* and *Confusion*. One second, he’s all, “Must protect Zen at all costs,” and the next, he’s like, “Nah, I’m totally straight, we’re just bros.” PLEASE. Ryu, your internalized mess is showing.
And can we talk about Frank popping up out of nowhere as the second lead? Like, “Hey besties, I’m here too!” LOL. But for real, both Frank and Meen have leveled up their acting game. No more awkward stares or wooden line delivery—growth, we love to see it. Speaking of characters, Lin? Girl. STOP. You’re so selfish sometimes! Always whining about your dad, but do you even TRY to understand his perspective? No. You just yell. It’s giving tantrum.
Also, can we address Lin and her “crush” on Ryu? Sis, where is the buildup? WHERE? Not a single scene made me go, “Oh, I see why she likes him.” It’s like she woke up one day and said, “I choose you, Pikachu.” I mean, drama’s cute and all, but at least give us some breadcrumbs. And Ryu? He owes Lin a proper rejection scene—*then* give me the juicy fallout where Lin starts hating Zen. That’s the kind of drama I live for.
Now, let’s give a round of applause to the mafia plotline. It’s not perfect, but hey, it kept me entertained. The basketball scenes? SO WELL DONE. I was fully invested, like, “Okay, ESPN, I see you.” But the action sequences? Meh. Ryu gets injured after like *two seconds* of fighting. Sir, what even happened? Did you trip over a pebble? Give me some punches, some broken furniture, some DRAMA.
Lastly, let’s circle back to MeenPing. Ping is out here being the most precious bean alive. I just want to squish him. Meen, though? I don’t know, he still has that awkward energy, and I feel like he’s not vibing with Ping as much as Ping is with him. Ping is giving heart-eyes, and Meen is giving... “I’m straight but thanks.” It’s very God Itthipat-coded. JUST SAYIN’.
Overall, I really liked the series. It’s fun, the basketball scenes slap, and the heart-throbbing moments? SO GOOD. But the mafia fight scenes need work, and Ryu’s emotional crisis was exhausting. Still, it’s a rewatch for me because PING. IS. ADORABLE. And I need more of Zen’s sunshine vibes in my life. *Bye, love y’all.* 🏀💖
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Its.... fine
Like the title says.... its fine, everything about it is just okayThe plot: fine, wish they could've focused more on the street basketball part
The setting: fine, it's good for a sport bl and I liked that they showed that at least Meen and Ping could actually score
The acting: fine, some highs and some lows but overall it's not horrible, standout performance from Coach Ton. Wasn't really convinced by Meen and Ping playing high schoolers so that took me out of the immersion
The characters: fine but on the lower side, most characters didn't get enough screen time (looking at you side couple #3) and a lot of screentime wasted on Atom's one sided crush
The romance: fine, fairly simple but appreciated except for the unnecessary love triangle. Also not a fan of having this many couples when 2/3 aren't fleshed out
The ending: fine, extremely rushed with unnecessary plot points but ultimately wrapped up fine
In conclusion it's a good watch if you're bored and have nothing else but it's not a standout show, and that's completely fine (no pun intended) ,not every show needs to be 10/10
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The basketball scenes are lovingly shot and thematically, the show is quite strong but it'll take a lot of parking of the brain in neutral to deal with the nonsensical detours and strange mini-arcs that come out of nowhere and disappear as quickly. In one scene, our two leads witness a mass murder and then never seem to care - or even reference it again.
Some of the casting is also hilarious with early 30s actors playing senior school administrators and fathers of 17 year olds. Every time I was reminded that Ton apparently had a daughter in her late teens, it was enough to send me into peals of laughter.
In fact, The Rebound seems to be three dramas in one: a sports drama, a BL, and gangster action. But it's the heartwarming "teens coming together to save their basketball team" one that you'll mostly stick around for. The rest could have been easily jettisoned.
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a missed slam dunk?
The Rebound is a disappointing Thai BL drama that fails to deliver on its potential. Despite featuring a talented cast and a promising premise, the series suffers from a messy storyline, inconsistent pacing, and underwhelming performances.The series' focus on basketball and the challenges faced by student athletes could have been a compelling narrative. However, the lack of depth in the characters' personal lives and the inclusion of unnecessary subplots detract from the overall experience. The gangster arc, in particular, feels forced and out of place.
Additionally, the pairing of Meen and Ping in this drama initially didn't generate much excitement for me, as I had similar reservations about their chemistry in Ai Long Nhai and after watching My Dear Gangster Oppa.
While the cinematography is commendable, the acting performances are uneven. Meen's monotonous delivery and Ping's awkward expressions hinder their ability to connect with the audience. The supporting characters, such as Atom and Shogun was underutilized and fail to make a lasting impression.
The series' focus on multiple couples is a missed opportunity. The lack of depth in the relationships and the rushed pacing prevent the audience from fully connecting with the characters.
The final bed scene, intended to salvage the series, falls flat and fails to compensate for the shortcomings of the storytelling.
The Rebound had the potential to be a slam dunk, but it ultimately misses the mark.
The series could have benefited from a more focused narrative, stronger character development, and a more compelling exploration of the challenges faced by student athletes.
Despite its flaws, The Rebound offered a glimpse into the world of basketball and its challenges.
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THE CHEMISTRY
I loved this drama. Though it is a sports-based drama and i am not usually intrigued by such dramas. I watched it solely for meen and ping. their chemistry was everything. i loved the coach, the grandma, and every member of the basketball team. it was a good drama to watch as it is something different from the usual dramas we get nowadays. Meen and ping moments made me blush so damn much. I have always loved meen and ping and this drama might have been their best!Was this review helpful to you?
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EXCELLENT BL SPORTS DRAMA
STORYGenerally the Drama or story is about encouraging viewers to pursue their dreams and what they really want with their lives no matter what and not giving up with them no matter the obstacles may bring. I was impressed as I end watching this drama and now I have seen how or what the constrcuction of this drama has in order to bring the viewers to the ending. Zen has a dream to be a Professional Basketball player as what he has promised to his Dad and as he pursues about it he me Ryu who also has a dream to be but due to some circumstamces in his life he was not directed to the right path at first, he might me too strong and cold but deep inside he is hurt and the two of them worked and trained together for the team in their school and also as a representative of the school, they almost became the champion but there is always an another chance to be.
At first I thought it was the reason why Ryu was suddenly disappeared will be the main answer that we the viewers will be trying to stay tuned into and to find out but since it was revealed into the middle part, the drama turned out to be the reason why the title is Rebound. Rebound that is not just applicable to the sports but also to life. The drama was funny at the first part but as it ended it became emotional, serious lesson was shown---that in life we really cannot get everything we wanted, but inspite of that, if we do not give up, there will always be a perfect place and award for us. My favorite parts were the turning point of Ryu from bring a player for gambling into a player for a purpose, thank fully the thing with the thugs that he was involved with has finished not too long at the drama, it was a bit violent but it is bearable. Another this is how Coach was able to abstain himself from drinking and finally when Zen has chosen to do the right thing--pursuing for the scholarship at Phuket than of only following his emotions. This is the lesson for every youth out there, it is that love is not everything, love is nice but it won't give you food at the table, love is good to be used as an inspiration to work hard and pursue your dreams, The dream of Zen and Ryu to be a basketball player.
ACTING
Ryu or Meen's acting was impressive, he is now one of the good actors I know in Thailand, and the rest was good also but I am impressed by Meen in this drama and Atom ! Don't get me started, as I always mention I really feel bad about him here, he is so fine , and here we go again with the second male lead syndrome, thanks to Atom, Ryu realized and made to himself clear that he must not let go of Zen and that he really likes him. and the P'Q, I like his character here, he loved Ryu as his own brother , he seems a bad guy at first but he was really not , all he did was to protect Ryu , I almost thought he liked Ryu in a romantic way, P'Q have shown here that there can be a love for brother without malice unlike other or most of people think, and besides that, he is such a hottie, also the Thug Master , P'Q's leader , the one he killed was so fine too and really had a good act.
VISUAL EFFECT
I am only sometimes wondering about the hair of the coach that changes in every scene that was why I was checking also the hairs of every character, but it is okay , all in all good faces of the actor, good effects epecially when the leads are playing basketball
MUSIC
I was not really into the music here but it was okay in every scene, the intro and ending songs was sporty so it was good but not a song that I will be playing for a week
OVER ALL
It was very impressing for a sports drama, the last sports drama I watched was so good that I have never forgotten about it until now and that also made me cry so much .. here I cried at the last two episodes. I was just curious why the board was not blaming the director when they were trying to fire the Coach, after all it was the Director who scouted the Coach, also I just felt too bad that Ryu has chosen Zen but Zen has left him. Not literally but I was trying to understand Ryu'situation here, if he would've gone to the UK i believe things would get better for him there, the situation has proven that Ryu has matured and have understood Zen inspite of him being hurt. I like this drama not boring not too fast , no filler scene, it was exciting, I would probably watch this again after sometime gonna miss Zen and Ryu
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I ate this shit UP and im not sure why
This show made me wanna write a review for the first time and like i said, im lost on the why.Im not picky when it come to things to watch, as long as im engaged thats all it takes for me to finish it, ive managed through a multitude of shows that most people ive seen hate with a firey passion.
However
Most dont keep me as entertained as this show did.
Realistically, this is pretty average to subpar at certain points and if youre looking for a wellwriten, intense drama then you wont find it here.
But
If you like the actors and dont mind some stupid shit every now and again then go for it, cause i fucking love this far more than i should.
Things i didnt like:
1 love triangle, ive always hated them and wish hell upon the person who invented them.
2 Ryu's mum, shes very one dimentional
3 lin pissed me off
4 shitty writing
5 half baked conclusion, theyre not the most hated thing for me but i certainly didnt like the loose ends
6 the coach is an alcoholic and somehow STILL keeps his job when its revealed hes got issues
7 ATOM
8 as an autistic person, chogun being the way he was portrayed sometimes felt offputting like he was a basketball superhero and became a part of the team despite being autistic, felt kind of good doctor like
Things i liked:
1 the intro music, i could listen to that shit on repeat for DAYS
2 the main characters relationship, they seemed quite healthy
3 it kept me fully entertained, i mean cackling at times in the middle of the night type of entertained, could possibly have also been the delusion from staying awake for a day or two
4 well shot basketball games
5 i like it whenever golf's cafe shows up, adds something for me personally
6 i like meen, hes always enjoyable to watch in things, not just cause hes attractive, i think i just like his facial expressions and voice
7 characters are free to stay or leave and their partner wont say theyll ditch everything to go with
8 atom getting left in phucket was hilarious to me
I know some of my reasons for liking this show will seem biased and thats cause they probably are but hey ho
now for a mini rant about Atom
I like Frank, i really do and this wont stop me from waching future things hes in, this is PURELY an issue with the character thmeselves. Seperate the actor from the role people.
Listen, i know were not supposed to completely hate Atom or anything but THAT BOY ISTG
all i wanted everytime he would pop up was for a nuke to exterminate him from the earth, this probably has a lot to do with my pure despise of love triangles but everytime he tried to flirt with zen all i could think was EW
It probably didnt help that he clearly made both zen and ryu uncomfortable along with the dodgy shit he did like sneekily taking photos and just all round forcing himself into zens life
Zen couldnt set boundaries and it seemed to me that atom knew that and took advantage which is very icky to me for obvious reasons
Ngl if i was in this universe id have commited many a war crime trying to get that man AWAY
You can imagine how happy i was that he got left in phucket and hopefully murdered while zen was gone (just a little headcannon)
Anyways, in conclusion im a bitch for things that are slightly entertaining and if youre anything like me, id give the show a shot.
Btw yes i know im a bit late to the party but inly just now decided to give it a review after rewatching it, my bad
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