The greenest of green flags?
I truly loved this drama from start to finish. Out of many BL dramas I’ve watched, I’m sure God is one of the greenest green flags. The way he cares for Diew, the little things, the way he listens, how much he loves him. It’s extremely adorable. This drama just shows that you shouldn’t change the way you are for anyone and there’s someone out there who will love you for who you are. It also shows how people have different ways of caring for people, God likes to show it whereas Diew’s mum seems strict but she genuinely cares for Diew. The second couple is also cute, and I wanted to see more of them. We also got a hint of a third couple… but we didn’t see much of them. I could possibly see this as one of those series which continues but with the other couples (like Until We Meet Again and Between Us).Being an ISFJ like Diew, I could see the things which made him uncomfortable and reasons he acted that way, so it was nice to be able to connect with the drama too. I just wish he opened up a bit sooner which he definitely started to at the end of the drama.
I’m sad this drama has ended because I enjoyed it so much. God has definitely popped up on my list of green flags and favourite characters, he’s a big fluffy cutie and definitely a golden retriever!! I would definitely recommend this drama!
Also, yes… I am also worried about Khun Shy… please give that turtle a whole entire pond.
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This review may contain spoilers
? Hooked from the Start! Big Stole My Heart ?
Rating: 9.5/10
Monster Next Door (2024) is hands down one of the CUTEST BL series I’ve seen this year! 🥰 I was totally hooked from the very beginning and binged the whole thing in just two sittings — true bindweed behavior 🌿😅
The friend group was such a joy to watch — I loved how supportive and genuine their bond was 💕 It made the emotional moments hit even harder.
Now let’s talk about Big as God... I’m completely OBSESSED 😍 He’s literally perfect — the height, the body, the smile, the everything. He’s so cute and handsome, like the ultimate boyfriend. I’m already counting down the days until Me and Who — can’t wait to see him again! 🫶
Also really liked Park as Diew — he’s adorable too! Though I wasn’t the biggest fan of the blonde hair 🙈 Sooo happy he’s back to his natural black hair in Me and Who — he looks 1000x better with it 🖤✨
Highly recommend this if you're into sweet stories, lovable characters, and a sprinkle of chaos 💫
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a chore to watch
perhaps i'm being too harsh on this series, but it felt like a chore getting through this series. i'm not sure i liked anyone at any point, just maybe putter's cameo was nice?character-wise, all of these characters were pretty flat to me. i wanted more fleshed out personalities, and i felt like diew was hardly ever accommodating to god. often times, it felt like a very one way relationship, and god doing a lot of the work to get anything going or even discussed, but i also understand there were some things that made diew the way he was--i just didn't like it at all.
wan was also grating to see, and i again don't know if i'm being overly harsh, but he was one of the most annoying characters in this. i dreaded having to watch anything about him.
i don't know, i found myself very disconnected from the entire series, cast, and story. i just couldn't get into anything about this. the most random things would immediately take me out of the story all the time, and i can't say this was much of an enjoyable show for me. maybe i'll have to revisit this at a later time, but for now this is not something i liked.
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The romantic comedy of two neighbors in conflict
Who doesn't like a romantic comedy, even knowing its dependence on many clichés and narrative schemes already seen? Raise your hand if you don't enjoy the kissing scenes in the rain, the happy endings, the music that surrounds the lovers at full volume, the typical corniness and such unrealistic situations, despite knowing in advance that they are sufficiently illusory. Who hasn't dreamed of a love story larger than life itself?Can you guarantee that you would reject your "prince charming" singing to you in front of the school and making a fool of yourself for you, and surprising you with a guitar (or drums) playing your favorite song? Who doesn't like to see a series of this genre capable of offering us a ray of hope, a good dose of faith in the healing power of love and the guarantee of a "happily ever after"?
'Monster Next Door' is the Thai romantic comedy series that frames a love story with university overtones, and that draws attention not only for its warmth and humor, but also for its ability to immerse the viewer in a narrative that combines relationship between neighbors, the value of friendship, family, love for pets and the unexpected turns of love.
Based on the novel "Godzilla Next Door" (พี่เขาบุกโลกของผม) by Jiwinil, 'Monster Next Door' tells the story of Diew, a reserved and introverted first-year college student who likes to live in his ultra world private, hiding in his apartment. His best friends are a turtle named Khun Shy and his classmate Game.
But what Diew didn't count on is that his dorm life would include his neighbor, God, an attractive, kind, and outgoing senior from another college, who with his sweet lips has just moved into the next room.
Night after night, God and his friends either keep him from going to bed at his usual time or drag him out of bed with their loud parties. However, when he begins to interact with his neighbor, who is separated by a wall the width of a cigarette paper, Diew's perfect and harmonious world is turned upside down. They both fall in love: they stumble upon the shyness and wonder of first love.
And while the meet-cute, that is, when the two characters meet by chance in an adorable way in the first scenes and that becomes the beginning of their love story, serendipity does not stop uniting them in cafes, libraries and other spaces of the university or in their respective bedrooms, although there is a wall in between and without one having seen the other's face.
The supporting roles, played by Krismon Thanawat Sutthijaroen, Kade Tanapon Hathaidachadusadee, Ole Thanakorn Sangwan, Proud Urucha Sirichaiwongsakul, Pik Supawit Vichitrananda, Mhing Thatsaphon Ruengkitrattanakun, among others, bring to the story a rich tapestry of characters that enrich the main plot. Through these characters, the series manages to convey its light humor, emotional drama and, ultimately, a feeling of satisfaction and warmth to the viewer.
When a comedy of this type starts you know that at most it will entertain you. Although that will not be enough guarantee for you to stay since at any moment something may arise that will make you get up from the couch, caring very little about the story they were trying to tell us. However, in 'Monster Next Door' there is a factor that makes you want to continue in front of the screen until the final closing; and that detail for which you spend minutes after minutes and jump from one chapter to the next is none other than seeing its two protagonists.
That is to say, a key factor of the series is the performance of Big Thanakorn Kuljarassombat, an actor who plays God, who with his mix of attractiveness, generosity, humor and passion for playing music on the drums, manages to capture the essence of the romantic journey and transformation of his character. The relationship between him and Diew, played by Park Anantadej Sodsee, stands out for the depth of feelings they develop, creating a bond that captivates the audience.
Here Big Thanakorn Kuljarassombat proves himself again as an actor, after his debut in 2015 in the film 'Love Love You' and BL series such as 'Enchantment', 'Gen Y', 'My Mate Match', 'Big Dragon', among others.
What power of protagonism!, without ignoring that he was the star in his role as Ruy in 'My Mate Match', or as Suea in 'Love Songs Love Series X Years After: Our Promise… My Friend'. If anyone thinks that being a protagonist was trivial, this series proves them wrong. Big has been there in many series that we have all enjoyed, but always as the disposable character, as the third wheel, as the intruder who arrives to bother the other person and endanger the romance of the protagonist couple, so we have discarded and not taken into account. How lucky for us to be able to see him taking on this role!
On the other hand, it is the second acting job in front of the cameras that we see of Park Anantadej Sodseea, after getting into the shoes of Wayo, one of the leading characters in '2 Moons: The Ambassador'.
Perhaps the strongest point of the series is the way it is told. It is also notable how the characters are framed and described.
In this sense, the cosmopolitan university seems like a liberal queer space with some of its professors, librarians and food stall vendors presumably belonging to the LGBT+ community, and where secondary characters also support their partner establishing a romantic relationship with another person of their same gender, while others look for a partner of their own sex, since an interest is expressed among several friends of Diew and Good, but I will not say more to avoid spoilers.
As in any romantic comedy, 'Monster Next Door' makes one thing lead to another and both protagonists fall at the feet of the god Eros. Through a simple, direct premise, and a staging without much complexity, everything very effective, in my opinion, the series will make us laugh, entertain and also reflect.
Being in settings as close as the same university or with a wall in the middle, there are several opportunities for both boys to meet. However, God will respect Diew's request not to meet in person until he considers he is ready to look each other in the eyes. In this way, a beautiful friendly and romantic relationship is forged.
The series presents the usual topics of the romantic genre, giving them a different approach by having the protagonists separated by a thin wall. An easy and direct premise that, however, serves as a starting point for endless controversies that the main characters face in order to live together, while love grows between the two.
In the series, the result in the field of direction, by Kungfu Nitivat Cholvanichsiri, works thanks to that theatrical tone that is constantly represented through the simple interaction of its protagonists and the basic environments.
In summary, 'Monster Next Door' is emerging as an ideal option for those looking for a happy, tender and moving story that celebrates love and the beauty of simplicity. Although the plot does not escape certain clichés of the genre, this characteristic does not detract from its charm, but rather underlines the ability of its creators to tell universal stories with a new approach.
'Monster Next Door' is located within the large branch of love comedies for young people produced around the world, especially Hollywood, Bollywood, television in European and Latin American nations, and other latitudes. Its fun touches and carefree plot plus the use of a pleasant and pleasant rhythm manage to make the viewer watch the series without expecting anything other than what it suggests.
I am not going to say that it is a major work of television and if I analyze the different fields there is nothing that stands out. Soundtrack, script and actors simply acceptable.
However, it is a captivating story, perhaps it is the way it is told to us or the values they present to us such as love, friendship, family and tenderness.
It made me smile and daydream from start to finish in the first three episodes aired and on which I based this review, and if that's not the goal of romantic comedies, then nothing is.
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ALL CUTE AND FLUFF
This show is actually so cute, good to watch when you don't really want to have big introspection and perfect to keep as a comfort serie.Diew~
Presented as a really shy introvert but let's be honest he's one of my fellow Neuro-Divergent characters!! His specific interest are turtles (btw #freeMrShy from his tiny-non adapted at all tank) and reading.Please don't call him weird or cringe, he's just autistic (: avoid physical touch and eyes contact, struggle to communicate with people in general and is easily over-stimulated)
God~
The greenest forest you can ever find!! This guy is the Amazon on his own! He is a classical extrovert, easy-going, drummer in a band (please someone really teach him how to play🙏🏻 he's not even always in rythme😭), who like playing basketball. Really understanding with Diew's struggle, he help him and always try to find a way to explain his feelings and his matters to his partner. Maybe overprotective sometimes but they find a way to communicate their feelings very well so we don't end up with some misunderstanding who last 7 episodes.
Overall~
We don't have a deep dive in side-character's back stories even if there is 12 episodes but that's okay, we just know enough to understand what is happening around the lead couple.
This serie is a really good representation of what can be a relationship between a neurodivergent and a neurotypical, and how each one can adapt with the behaviour of his partner. WE LOVE GOOD ND REPRESENTATIOND!!!
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Beautifull drama.
This was really a beautifull drama, nothing fancy, just a good story.All about what it's like to be an introvert or extrovert and what addaptions people make when those two get together.
Do you need to make sacrifices/adaptions, or do you respect each other and let the other be true to himself.
Learning from each other and growing yourself.
Very good chemistry between Big and Park and Park did a fantastic job acting as an introvert.
I will probably watch this drama again sometimes.
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This review may contain spoilers
Cute series that reminded me of the older BL's
DisclaimerWhat I am writing here are my views and thoughts about this movie. Some of you may not like it. That does not give you the right to try to come at me with your opinions on why this series should get a better score and why it is better than I think it is. You have your own opinions, and I have mine. Kindly respect that.
I started this series on a whim, and honestly, I actually liked it! Yes, it did have some flaws (ex-boyfriend, a kind of mean girl), and yes, these issues were dealt with quite swiftly (the ex-boyfriend, mean girl), BUT I still liked it. The chemistry between the two actors was there, and they were cute when they did come together. We had a secondary male couple that I kind of at one point wanted them together and then at the next point did not really care if they did get together. The next secondary couple with Diew's best friend and the lead singer of the group kind of felt out of place for me – I don't know. I just didn't get them.
What was the saving grace for this series was the songs. They hit hard and had me bopping my head to it and sometimes (trying) to sing along with it as well. What they do need to work on is having these 'singers' look like they are singing. I don't know – I guess I'm spoilt by GMMTV, as their actors are actually singing.
In the end, I did enjoy this series, as it was an easy and quick watch to follow.
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SWEETNESS overload! When an Introverted Turtle met an extroverted Green (flag) Monster.
Subjective Gut Rating: 8.25What a lovely surprise that I enjoyed “Monster Next Door” so much. The premise is simple: an extrovert and an introvert live next door to each other, start out with some issues but then slowly fall in love and learn to grow together into their own comfortable selves. The biggest takeaway is that, Diew, the introvert is comfortable being alone and away from the crowds. We see him grow as a person and enlarges his social circle just a little bit yet without losing himself.
Let’s start with some areas of improvements:
1. Acting - The acting definitely could use some improvement. It’s not horrible but also not the best. But I do see the actors improving along the way and seem to be more comfortable with their characters.
2. Band Music - I was hoping to listen to better songs (with better vocals). But there’s basically one song. I was hoping to see the band play the full set or the full song, but I never got it.
3. 2nd romance - A little more time could have been spent on them. They are fun together but I needed to transition from friends to lovers.
4. 3rd romance - is that even a third romance? I also want to see more of them as they seem to be another interesting introvert/extrover pairing. I want to know more about their friendship/romance.
5. Diew’s outfits - I know he’s a student, but he could use a couple more sets of clothes instead of his uniform and PJs.
6. Mr. Shy - poor turtle needs a bigger tank.
Let’s talk about the GOOD!
SWEET, is the adjective I would describe this drama. There are many other Thai BLs in a school setting, and most of them though could be cute and fluffy, are usually too over-the-top and cringey to me (dialogs and how they act). But “Monster Next Door” did not give me this icky feeling. It’s just so sweet. This is largely due to the fact that we have the sweetest and greenest monster in our male lead, God.
God is a god-sent to the world of toxic red flags/GeGes/Oppas. He only lives in dramaland, because no one could be as nice as he is. He’s kind to everyone around him. But he also will step up and defend in the most logical, kind and reasonable way. He might not like you, but he will still keep his temper and communicate like an adult. He’s kind, considerate, patient and speaks honestly and kindly. He will think from your perspectives and give you great advice in life and in love. He’s so perfect that I wonder what he sees in Diew in the first place and is so smitten with him, when he barely knows him and has never seen Diew’s face. Dramaland pixie dust and Cupid’s arrow at work!
Not sure if it’s a translation issue, but I find God’s request to date Diew comes out of nowhere when you barely know him. Maybe he just wants to be his friend and get to know him, but not actually date Diew just yet? The beginning of their friendship is SWEET. However, it also makes me sad that Diew requested 3 conditions because of a past romance. Issues or misunderstandings are resolved rather quickly because God and Diew actually do talk to each other openly (except that one time involving Diew’s ex which took a little longer). During their friendship/courtship phase, I was smiling ear-to-ear, but was also moved to tears. It’s not really that sad objectively, but for some reason it was hitting me at all the right buttons and at the right moment. Looking back, I am loving it as I like a drama that brings out these complicated emotions.
There are also lovely platonic friendships and friends who are not only fun to hang out with, but are there to support you. The extroverted foursome is hilarious and rambunctious, which is a great contrast to the mellower and more sophisticated introverted duo.
Thai dramas have the best grandparents. Grandpa here is so fun and kind and adorable! We all need a grandpa like him to dote on us, and be a mediator with our parents. Mom might be painted as a ‘bad’ mom during the earlier episodes, but you’ll realize she’s nowhere near ‘bad’.
Mom Talk/Perspectives:
Diew’s relationship with his mom might not be the ‘sweet’ part of the drama. But it resonated with me so much and was portrayed in such a relatable and realistic way. My son is also off to college as a Freshman this year, so I agree with all the doubts and anxiety Diew’s mom is feeling. Not returning phone calls or texts is not acceptable in a mother’s eye, when you are alone away from home. But, as an international foreign student myself, I also could see where Diew is coming from. You tend to report the good and minimize the bad. You tend to just ignore it because your mom is annoying (or in this case, Diew has his own beliefs of how mom acted a certain way). I can empathize with both perspectives, thus, I really like how their relationship is written. It might be a Debbie-downer for those who just want all fluff and sweetness, so I can see criticisms of how this part could be boring to some.
I recommend “Monster Next Door” if you are looking for something simple and sweet (but predictable). It is not the most amazing drama out there, but it suits my needs and speaks to me. I had an amazing time binge-watching all 12 episodes in one day. Therefore, I am rating this a somewhat high 8.25-8.5 rating.
Completed: 11/28/2024 - Review #522
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Highly recommended
Green-flagged Relationship! I really enjoyed this series; it was a heartwarming story that captivated me from start to finish. What I liked most is that it wasn’t a common BL plot—refreshing twists and unique character dynamics kept me engaged throughout.The acting was a big plus too, especially from episode 10 onward. The chemistry between the actors was so noticeable, making their relationship feel authentic and genuine. It really added depth to the narrative and made me root for them even more. Overall, "Monster Next Door" is a delightful watch that stands out in the genre!
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Enjoyable but inconsistent characterisation.
Overall I loved this series. The characters were mostly well thought out and believable however there were a few inconsistencies that slightly lowered my enjoyment of the series, most notable in the character of the 'monster'. Earlier episodes showed he was thoughtful and supportive of other's needs and very understanding. Later episodes he appeared to forget all of this and became suspicious and judgemental for a time. It was not in line with his character and was not enjoyable to watch. It very much came across as a plot driven requirement with no foundation rather than a believable character driven challenge. Also I can't be the only one that was disappointed that a certain scene from the pilot trailer never materialised in the show.There's also a very unhealthy setup for the pet turtle featured in the series which is very irresponsible of the production team. I would hate to see anyone copy this set up for their own pets. The enclosure is far too small with nowhere near enough water for proper submersion. There is no basking spot with a heat lamp or a source of UVB light which will likely result in a softening and deforming of the shell. There was a moment where I actually thought this was going to be addressed and was a little impressed with the detail but this turned out to be wishful thinking on my part. No turtle should be kept in this environment long term. Please do not copy this setup.
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Sometimes you just need a cute BL to get through the day
I honestly wasn't expecting this to be as good as it was. Sometimes you just need something cute, sweet and fluffy to get you through the day, and this was 100% it. Diew is the biggest cutie patootie to ever exist. Istg, every time he smiles I just feel the need to clutch my heart cuz of the cuteness overload. That smile is a lethal weapon, I tell you. Can stop wars, I say. And don't even get me started on how relatable Diew was man. He hit too close to home. Him being terrified of being himself was something I related to too much, and the awkwardness in his interactions with people got be gritting my teeth cuz I could see myself in him.And God has officially entered the list of greenest of green flags to ever green. He's actually such a teddy man. Those muscular arms but actually the biggest softie. AND he can play the drums like a god? Yeah, Diew is one lucky man. This was just a feel good show, and the amount of times I had to pause my screen to screech and squeal cuz of the cuteness is uncountable. They have to be the cutest couple ever and they didn't even start dating when it all began. AND THAT CONFESSION?? OMFG THAT CONFESSION!!!! HANDS DOWN THAT HAD TO BE THE SMOOTHEST AND BEST CONFESSION I'VE SEEN IN BLS. TELL ME SOMETHING THAT CAN TOP THAT! I'LL WAIT!!!!
But then ep 11 happened...
I'm sorry, BUT WHAT HAPPENED TO MY FEEL GOOD SHOW??? WHAT HAPPENED TO MY CUTIES??? That entire scene actually got me to nearly cry. They both had their reasons so I couldn't pick a side, but the moment they start wiping each others tears????? I LOST IT!! AND THEN GOD LISTING ALL THE THINGS HE LIKES ABOUT DIEW??? MOTHER, PREPARE MY FUNERAL!! They're such a healthy couple I can't. They're new to love, love and appreciate everything about one another, and are afraid their flaws will ruin the relationship. And watching them learn to grow from that was honestly so beautiful and heart-warming. Because that's what young love is at the end of the day, learning and growing. I just can't believe how much I love these two.
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FOUND FAMILY TROPE WITH AN INTROVERT AS THE MAIN CHARACTER ALWAYS GETS ME
Monster Next Door is a heartwarming Thai BL series that combines quirky humor and meaningful themes. It explores topics like self-acceptance, loneliness, and finding unexpected connections in life.The relationship between the leads is sweet and built on trust, showcasing a healthy MLM dynamic. With its comforting vibe and adorable moments, the series balances lighthearted comedy with emotional depth, making it a delightful and uplifting watch for fans of feel-good storytelling.
And I also love the cast
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