Sashes and Hearts (2025)

7/10 Sashes and Hearts: Unique Concept, Mixed Execution

Sashes and Hearts' concept is honestly unique. A BL series centered around male pageantry? That's super fresh. I haven't seen anything quite like it, especially from Thailand, where pageantry in BL isn't really explored. Props to the creators for trying something different!
That said, one thing that threw me off a bit is the huge cast.
There are just so many characters, it gets a little overwhelming trying to keep up with everyone's story. It makes the show feel a bit crowded and chaotic at times.
In addition, it has so many uninteresting plots, like they just threw in to fill a space and make the series lengthy. And also too many nonsensical dialogues.
Now let's talk couples... The main leads, Mac and Larence have a good chemistry. Mac Alonzo's acting is good, it feels natural, while Larence Brenches little needs improvement.
The second couple doesn't really click for me. The chemistry just isn't there. Oddly enough, I found more spark between Jack and his best friend, Tony. I was honestly hoping they'd end up together instead!
Most of the actors here haven't starred in major movies or
TV series, and I hadn't even heard of them before watching this. But I have to give special props to Gian Carl, who plays Tony-his performance felt incredibly natural, with zero awkwardness.
Also, major kudos to Oxin Films. I've always noticed that a lot of Filipino BLs tend to struggle with budget limitations, but this one feels like they really put in the effort. You can tell they invested in the visuals, production, and overall quality.
Sashes and Hearts is a fresh take with potential, even if it's not perfect.

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Desfilando Sem Holofotes

Eu queria me sentir nos bastidores do Mister Universe Royale, torcendo pelos candidatos, mas acabei perdido em um roteiro que atirou para todos os lados — drama familiar, triângulo amoroso, pobreza, rivalidade — e acertou em poucos. A dinâmica entre Jack, Tomas e Tony testou minha paciência, mas a qualidade precária do áudio e da edição foi o verdadeiro vilão da obra. O tema até foi um diferencial, mas, surpreendentemente, não foi o casal principal que me prendeu, e sim a dinâmica paralela de Gin e Jarret. Achei a construção deles mais natural e menos sofrida do que o trisal fatídico.

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