Shine (Orchestric Ver.) (2025)

This show means sm

Shine portrayed many issues throughout history that are not talked about enough to this day even though many people have gotten justice for it. The students fighting for their rights is actually a real story representing students that actually fought with their whole life for freedom speech and freedom in general, and died while doing it just as they showed with Victor. He fought with his whole heart and soul even though he had a bright future in front of him, and gave his life for future generations. That is beautifully portrayed in this show.

Than, there's Trin and Tanwa. Showed us the view of a gay person who had trouble, at first, accepting that he liked the other male lead because he was male. They fell in love despite the issues they had with homosexuality and Trin's life changed. "Sometimes, the audacity to risk brings us the most unexpected happiness."
THE. PERFECT. ENDING.

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An absolute work of art

For a show to have me in a chokehold as a story. For it to have me researching not only history but also Jean-Paul Sartre and his works on existentialism and his attempt to connect existentialism with Marxism, which led me down a path of philosophies and ideologies and perspectives, just to have me then go back to continue on with the show through a new lens with new knowledge was just so absolutely impressive. To explore freedom and freedom of choice under different circumstances. And, I know. This is not the experience of all viewers. But, I can’t stress how this show highlighted the importance of communication and debating and understanding other people. How it showed perspectives from different members of both the working class and the ruling class. How it exemplified criticism of perspectives on both what is a better society to each character/class/age group and how to we get there. How it expressed ideas like the oppression of the oppressor. How it explored media as being manipulated by the ruling class and political agendas (media as a superstructure highkey). How it explored queerness within a historical context. How it expresses the pain of loving someone but struggling with doing what is right for yourself and/or others. How it explored an attraction to freedom and desire outside of what you thought you knew thus far in life. Internal conflicts. External conflicts. The insanity of dealing with both of these at once. It shed light on the greater society as well as individual experiences and showed how those two things are intertwined. Maybe it’s the sociologist within me speaking, or more aptly, yelling. But this was a god damn work of art.

The romance between Trin and Tanwa is not necessarily integral to the main plot. However, it is an extremely important piece in understanding Trin and his internal struggles and desires. It’s more symbolic than anything in my interpretation. Tanwa is not a huge piece of this, but his perspective is also both important historically as well as symbolically. He represents a group in society, as well as an ideal of freedom, in a way that reminds me, somehow, of a manic pixie dreamgirl. So seemingly unencumbered. So free. Embodying the idea of “damn, I wish I could live like that”, “I wish I could have that”. When in reality, there is depth, there are mental struggles, and there is a level of mental illness and/or anguish. There is a certain level of idolization and romanticization of what Tanwa symbolizes. Tanwa is both underestimated and overestimated. His character is not seen as just a person; it’s seen as an idea. To be judged in a way that is separate from others. I think many people have the same view of his archetype in history, and this story sheds a bit more light on it.

Acting:

Yeah, so… that was fantastic. I think everyone did a fantastic job in their roles all around. Just such solid performances from this cast. Them as individuals, them as representations of cultural subgroups, them as representations of members of different classes and their struggles. So good.

Writing:

Phenomenal for the VAST majority of this story. I already kind of went over the points I loved earlier, but I can’t stress enough how beautifully this was written. The only faults I have is the last like 5 minutes of this relatively long series and the fact that I was just left to accept that Naran and Krailert would never be. I hate that for them and I hate that for me… That being said, it is far more realistic than a grand reunion and happy ending for them, unfortunately. Just, wow. The historical and political plot here had me going insane. The symbolism in the (ig) main couple and literally EVERYTHING about the storyline of the “second” couple. Insanity. So good. BRAVO.

Chemistry/Romance/Kissing:

Was there a grand, electric chemistry between Trin and Tanwa? No, not really. Do I think there was supposed to be? No, not really. Their story was much more focused on their individual journeys than it was on their romance. But Naran and Krailert… AHHHHHHHHH WOWOWOWOWOW I can’t. The chemistry was INSANE, the romance was INSANE, I was INSANE. The romance aspect of this plot works, for sure. The kissing was obviously not a big part of this because, like, 1969-1971, ya know. But the kisses that were in this were great.

NC Scenes:

OOOOH boy umm… I said it in my notes, and I’ll say it again. THIS SHIT RATED PORN. I can’t with Naran and Krailert. I simply cannot. That was insane. Ya’ll really went for it. The scenes were written and executed to be full of passion and intimacy and it was soooo well done. Bravoooo. Trin and Tanwa’s was good, nothing wild, but their story didn’t really call for wild passion like Naran and Krailert.

Music/SFX:

Music was absolutely lovely all around. Nothing threw me off, just solid shit. SFX weren’t even noticeable, so good job there.

I cannot express how much I enjoyed this. This was a phenomenal series. Argue with the god damn wall if you disagree with me. I don’t care. I’m struggling with where to place this on my tier list, which is different from my rating system here. On the one hand, there are 3 or so series that hold a super special place in my heart and rating. On the other hand, this was such a damn masterpiece of a series, I’m all out of whack. BRAVOOOO


Now, for some highlights from my notes:

- OKAY INTRO
- My beautiful mennn are so beautiful eeeee
- Hold up, gotta go read up on the 1969 Thailand election and subsequent civil unrest/protests
- I find it interesting that the two genres listed are comedy and romance when shit is this serious so far
- A tragic Parisian romance
- The straight-laced dapper fellow at the hippie soiree
- Bro is out of his element
- Smoke that dank my guy, smoke ittt
- *Promiscuous boyyyy*
- The passion between these two hidden writers eeee
- Chopin’s Nocturnes MENTIONED my LOVE Shoutout to my boy CHAD LAWSON tho
- PLEASE listen to Chad Lawson’s variation on Nocturne in F minor Op 55 No 1, arranged for piano, violin, and cello
- *Release your inhibitions, feel the rain on your skin*
- I’m LIVING for this back and forth through quotes at the library
- This shit.. This shit rated PORN LMAO Jaw on the FLOOR, brother
- *Then came the dawn, and you were gone. You were gone, gone, gone. I had too much to dream last night. Too much to dream. I'm not ready to face the light. I had too much to dream last night*
- *Get faded when I wake up. 'Cause everything is too much*
- Forbidden love everywhere
- *Wrapped up in my white silk sheets. Sleeping with the enemy. Keep on the lights, don't close your eyes*
- “Or are we just falling in love with the idea of being loved?” It’s giving sad ending and I’m not ready for it
- A vers couple?????? Love to see it
- Tanwa is a professional dissociater, and as one myself, I can confirm it is hard to be around
- “Gulping like this only makes the whiskey lose its taste.” Okay, girl
- Put your clothes back on, lil guy
- The piano vs typewriter scene is insane. The dichotomy of expression and choice between the working and ruling class, all wrapped up in a tense forbidden gay romance oof I’m eating it tf up
- Oh shit, not the boy, Jesus christ
- This can’t have a happy ending for everyone, no shot
- Only ONE episode left????
- Tanwa tried to warn him?? Honestly shocked my boy went out of his way
- Oh, Krailert… My oppressed oppressor
- LET’S FUCKING GOOOOOOOOO KRAILERT
- “The voice that no one has heard, if the voice that does not exist” AHHHHHH
- CHOSEN?? What he has CHOSEN??? What a WORD to use
- OOH DEAR LORD not this I mean yeah sure it makes sense but NO
- IS SHE PREGNANT??? I’m gonna KMS
- Why does she look CONTENT rn???
- The dulling of colors???
- Bro is in Paris chillin, serving looks, giving aura
- “I finally understand that choosing, in itself, is what truly matters, regardless of the outcome. It’s still better than not choosing at all”
- Jesus, Mama Tanwa, the tortured poet
- ONLY 20 MINUTES LEFT
- Trin so dramatic, reading that letter by the Seine
- Victor’s last wish :(
- 7 minutes…
- PICK UP THE FUCKING PHONE YOU FUCKING HIPPIES
- WHERE are my Krailert and NARAN
- Tanwa in PArissssss
- Lackluster reunion, can’t deny it, can’t pretend
- I cannot express the heartbreak I feel for Naran and Krailert in words rn

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They don't care about us...

From the way the story is told, the ost is played, the cinematography is taken, the actors are acting, it tells you, "you're in for a ride".

Shine has been the best series from this year I've watched this year. It shows you how real, cruel and crude life in that time was and how also it could ressemble whats happening on the world today (since history is ciclycal) we might have come to watch a BL and gained so much more in the process.

I honestly have no words to describe every feeling I got watching every episode and listening to every song in the ost. It was really such a piece of art, and I'm glad I've watched it.

The characters are well written and were potrayed the most perfect way ever.

Also thanks Peter, for giving life to Victor, a character I could see myself and see my friends (who are not here anymore) in, it's was really refreshing to see something I've experienced on a show and being as real and crude as it is.

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A correct historical BL serie

Although the cast is obviously good, chemistry is there, and they tried to thicken the plot with an original historical background and good music, it felt like all the ingredients were there but not mixed well together. The magic just wasn't there for me!

Story (coherence, originality): 1/1 point
Character Writing (depth, development, credibility): 0,25/1 point → main issue
Acting Performance (overall quality): 0,5/1 point →too uneven
Chemistry: 1/1
Cinematography (visual quality and creativity, VFX): 0.5/1 point → beautiful shots but some major cutting issues
Atmosphere (immersion, consistency of the setting, costumes): 0,75/1 point
Pacing: 0,75/1 point
Sound Production (because it's too underrated): 0/1 point → one of the main issues
Soundtrack (good music and you have my heart): 0,75/1 point → good music
Overall Impact/Personal Enjoyment: 0,25/1 point → I really wished I loved it more but I was not convinced by the story...
Total: 5,75/10

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A true period drama of intriguing character studies, not "just" a BL romance

Honestly it's rare in the BL space to find a drama with such an immense focus on presenting in depth character studies and backgrounds for all the main characters. I guess it's because this is in no way in line with your standard BL. It's a real true and proper piece of cinema that transcends the same sex relationships theme and touches on a variety of topics. There is a strong foundational plot outside of just the romantic relationships that is fresh and interesting, especially set against the backdrop of Thailand with 70s era styling (set in 69-71). This is one of those series that hurts you, but is worth the pain. It's not afraid to "go" there with its characters.

My most loved aspect of this is truly the acting though. Trin and Victor's micro-expressions and acting throughout was on another level to all the other characters in my opinion. I know Victor's character rubbed a lot of people the wrong way, but he was my favourite. And although his ending (and Veera's) very much hurt my soul, I could see how important it was to the plot. He was the true catalyst of change and led all storylines to their crescendo.

The storyline between Krailert & Naran was absolute brimstone and fire the whole way through and honestly had me gripped far more than the main couple. Although I tend to like a happy ending far more than a gritty, realistic one. I felt that the ending Krailert got was fitting considering his choices that were shown from the very beginning of his path (where his first partner was murdered and he remained compliant). He was right with his lines about how his choices led him here and he has to face up to that. (Although his wife was chaotically evil all of sudden which was a little jarring).

I would say the only aspect that was lacking for me was the romantic relationship between Trin and Tanwa. For being the main couple, I honestly felt like they lacked some screentime and development. They showed their development as separate people very well, but when it came to their romance building- I wish their had been more scenes of them building their relationship and emotional intimacy. Especially compared to how explosive the other main couple's interactions were- it was almost too slow-burn and mild by comparison. I'm not complaining about them not having more sex scenes, but in general they just skipped between vague scenes of them just hanging out casually for a significant portion of the series. For example, I personally didn't like Tanwa at all- couldn't stand him in fact. He's just not my kind of character and I can't relate too him. But maybe if there was more development shown between them, I would have enjoyed his character more in the end.

This reminded me of The Paradise of Thorns in the way that it's true cinema in every regard. The story line and characters are fleshed out, the cinematography, lighting, acting, fashion, everything is incredible. I've been thinking about this story ever since I finished watching it. It's rare media can leave me hanging and coming back to think about it and that is a true mark of something impactful. I love this series so much and desperately hope to see more like this, especially with the hopes of the actor for Victor having a starring role. He is honestly incredible!

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Second Time Around - Still 10/10

I watched Shine (Orchestrated) twice - big screen and small – hoping that I would be able to write a review that could show the excellence of this drama, as a straight-out drama, and not just a BL drama.
I did not succeed. Shine will go down, in the annals of Thai tv drama, as the best script, acting, cinematography, OST (who else listens to the OST on Spotify) and authenticity of the era in which it was shot. I was 10yo (in Australia) when the Americans landed on the moon, so the whole hippie era was all around me.
Let’s look at the BL side of this show, as that is the overriding theme–
Miles and Apo had their roles reversed from those in KinnPorche, and how amazing were they? There was a real depth to their characters that was only hinted at in KP. Miles, as the free-wheeling hippie, was both attractive and funny, but later on showed his deep side. Apo, as the clean freak, buttoned-up academic made the viewer want to call out to the screen “take off your tie”. In fact, that first scene in the back yard of ‘Tanwa’s’ shop, where ‘Tanwa’ got him down to rolled up trousers and shirt, was ‘Trin’s’ awakening. In contrast with KP, they only had one sex scene, and a cheeky skinny dip, but, even as a Yaoi, I didn’t find that a problem. The scene was so tastefully done, that it was worth the wait.
SonEuro – wow! Just Wow! They were so well-suited to their roles -so different, yet perfectly-matched. How explosive were their sex scenes?! The piano scene, where they switched roles! I hated the ending of this pair, and the character that instigated their separation – ‘Dhevi’! Someone else, who hated the ending, an amateur BL writer, Esther Down, has written an alternate story of ‘Krailert’ and ‘Naran’, but changed the names, and most of the background – although the era is the same. (You can find her story on Wattpad, under Esther Down, “Ballan and the Colonel”)
The script writing – I am in awe of the writers – Ning, Pond, Den, and Bua – their collaboration alone on this complex script is legendary. The way they wove storylines together – Tanwa’s mother’s novel, the letters between Sarasawadee and Krai lung, the student protest content and Trin’s diary – was perfect. Who wrote the humourous lines and scenes? – so funny! However, it was the poignant, heart-wrenching lines that really made this show the epic tale that it is.
I held off watching ep8 again for as long as possible – it still had me in floods of tears, though! Why did ‘Dhevi’ have to be so cruel?! The wrenching scene where ‘Trin’ gives his uncle the letter from ‘Sarasawadee’, and after, when ‘Lert’ cries uncontrollably! ‘Tanwa’ in the depths of despair, in a continual drug-induced fog, being brought back to life by his father, whom we all thought was a cold-hearted man. ‘Lert’ writing a beautiful song to his beloved, who is miles away from him, and probably never to return. ‘Tiva’ kneeling down to ‘Victor’s’ parents, blaming himself for his death!
This show also had three brilliant – and beautiful - actresses!
‘Moira’ (Nok Sinjai Plengpanich) who could believe that this amazing woman is 60 years old?! She *was* Moira – a strong, independent woman of her time.
‘Dhevi’ – as much as I hated the vindictive person that she became – I mean, how can you say you “love” someone, when you treat them like that? – I found her acting magnificent. Didn’t we all want her to hook up with the sweet ‘Veera’, at least once?
And ‘Dao’ ("Punpun" Sutatta Udomsilp) – she owned that shoe “bitch slap” in the café after ‘Naran’ told her he loved a man! (seems the actress has bounced back from a bit of controversy, perhaps with maturity?– so, good on her)
I have only one thing to point out to the Production Designer - "Tum" Pawas Sawatchaiyamet, - who did a phenomenal job in reproducing 1969 Bangkok – the type of plastic bags (“freezer” bags) that ‘Victor’ used to bring ‘Trin’ his meal, were not around at that time. An absolutely miniscule error, that this pedant picked up on – sorry.
This is a 10/10 show, that I will probably revisit in years to come.

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Shine is more than a series, it’s a masterpiece that blends romance, political drama, and social critique into a poetic, visually stunning and emotionally rich narrative. Set in 1970s Thailand, it portrays love not just as emotion, but as an act of resistance in a time of repression and surveillance.

BOC’s production is flawless, with breathtaking cinematography and meticulous attention to detail. The cast delivers deeply nuanced performances, making the characters feel heartbreakingly real, especially Mile Phakphum, Peter Deriy, and Senam Rakphu. The romance between Krailert and Naran is raw and symbolic, brought to life with powerful chemistry by Son and Euro. Dhevi’s character adds complexity, brilliantly portrayed by Kob Pimolrat.

The soundtrack is more than music, it elevates every scene. It’s a voice for freedom, echoing the characters’ inner worlds and the series’ political undertones. Shine doesn’t shy away from confronting Thailand’s historical wounds, using its story to spark dialogue about justice, identity, and the power of art.

Beyond its emotional impact, Shine dares to revisit a dark chapter in Thai history, subtly critiquing systems of power while promoting dialogue on freedom, justice, and diversity. More than just a love story, Shine is a call to reflect, resist, and reimagine a freer, more compassionate future.

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cinema !

That mustve be one of the best thai drama they released this year, its soooo worth whatching ... the actors are really good (im kinda sus to say cause i LOVE Mile and Apo, but the other actors were dazzling too) THE SOUD TRACK HELLOO ?? IM OBSESSED (giving a especially praise to slot machine)

The final EP made me cry like a baby for one hour and a half.
Congratulations to the cinematography on this show everything is beautiful, the relationships are portrait in a very real way, the problems are real and nothing is perfect just like in real life and i love the way they did that

Its a political and queer story that pass a really important message .

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Drama of the Year

Be on Cloud have never been afraid to take risks and right from their origins with KinnPorsche they have prioritised quality in all aspects of their drama creation.

With Shine they have reached their zennith, the costumes, the music, the cinematography, the complex, flawed characters the actors bring to life - all of it was outstanding.

The only thing i would change is having maybe 10 episodes so certain scenes could have played out longer with a bit more time to breathe.

The ending wasn't quite perfect but it was very close.
Their decision to set a story within such a complicated poltical time with characters defined and constrained by the expectations of society at the time felt authentic and bold.

I waited years for this drama and it did not disappoint. I am just greedy for more. At least i can console myself with the excellent soundtrack and a rewatch. A 10/10 drama for me.

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YOU NEED TO WATCH IT, TRUST ME

This is my first review, I've never done a review because I'm kinda shy😅 but this series is so good that I must do a recommendation. THIS IS A MASTERPIECE and I'm not exaggerating, this could rival any Hollywood production. The story is original and I love the fact that they show the "bad" part of Thailand like corruption. The acting is so freaking good, way better than kinnporsche. The songs are masterpieces (y'all should listen to "the far side of the moon" and "hold my hand"). This will make you feel real emotions, I was so invested the entire series. The budget is budgetting and the historical accuracy is on point. This is the best bl I've ever seen in my life.

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