My heart, that only sings for you <3
In the era of sliding into DMs we got our "0620317745" couple!Thame-po, it's not just a drama, it's a story of finding harmony in friendship, love and dream. A series, that will not only make your heart skips a beat, but also will give you butterflies >.<
From the trailer to the series, I was excited to see something different, something unexpected from the generic GMMTV content. Believe me, I got exactly what I wanted! It's not a new concept where you will discover new ideas but it's more like creating a standard in this idol drama genre.
—:The things I liked:—
>I'm a sucker for good friendship storylines and they delivered everything regarding that. The characters weren't perfect but they showed how to maintain friendship while being kind to oneself. Sometimes I was jealous that I didn't experience friendships like that.
>Thame & Po, William and Est's sizzling chemistry is to die for! It's not forced but very natural. Their understanding of each other and making each other's flaws into strength is what made me sit through the whole series.
>Mars songs were soo good. The OSTs were bomb! Loved it!
>This series was dreamy and realistic at the same time. When you think "oh it's so dreamy" then suddenly they slap you with harsh realities of being an idol. They balanced both of them beautifully.
>The production was high quality and top notch! They made sure audience doesn't complain about this drama being plain. From camera angles, cinematography, colouring, makeup to clothing, EVERYTHING was top quality! That indeed made the whole watching experience aesthetically pleasing to eyes.
>And lastly, Thame-po shows the audience how painfully single they're! Their portrayal of love and affection was subtle but loud. In the era of succeeding a drama with great NC scenes, they proved heart fluttering romance is what audience feeds on. They swoon over single hand holding, catching glances, and remembering phone numbers! When taking care is love language, you don't have to worry, you'll be grinning a 12 yrs old teenager in love!
—:The things I didn't like:—
>There are not many things but only one, that is this thing is preplanned "YOU'RE BOUND TO LIKE EVERYTHING". From actors, idols,
Pemika (the CEO) to songs, EVERYTHING! Because it's part of the their business plan. They want to promote LYKN, the same idol group in the drama, MARS. They made audience like everyone. There were no bad gys but only good vibes, so that audience can relate with the on and off screen characters and which will eventually generate them big chunks of money in upcoming future. And they succeeded! Fans loved everything.
Then you might wonder, "what's the problem with that? This whole industry is for generating money." I agree, but it's just too perfect, and I like my dramas flawed with mistakes, morally grey characters and betrayals. If you pose perfection in a drama it becomes monotonous, being flawed give it an edge to be unique.
Overall, I must say GMMTV showed if they want to make a good selling series, they can! If you want to watch something warm, fluffy and aesthetically pleasing, this is for you.
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Best Dialogue and Rational Plot lines thus far after KinnPorsche
OKAY what the FREAKY. I made an account just to make this review because this drama is just THAT GOOD.Honestly, I went in blind and without expectations because GMMTV BL series are usually a tiny bit cringe for me. Oftentimes, Thai BL has irrational dialogue and unreasonable plot lines that just make the series completely unwatchable. For example, The Heart Killers. YES, I know it has quite a high rating on mydramalist and that everyone raves about it but it just was not quite for me. The storyline is a little illogical, one example being that one of the MCs, Bison, being a hitman, still decides to trust and love another MC, Kant, on "first sight". Also, some of the dialogue and scenes MUST be skipped or at least fast forwarded for me, like Fadel dancing, Fadel tying up Style against a swimming pool, etc.
But I digress.
The plotline of this drama was so mature and logical. The director brings out reasonable character development out of Thame in just the first episode. The dialogues between Po and Thame? Just chefs kiss. No cringe scenes YET, no insensible plots YET. I am seeing great potential for this drama. I hope it lives up to my expectations that has skyrocketed since the first episode.
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This review may contain spoilers
You kinda want to fall in love along with them
First time I watched the trailer, I thought it wasn't for me. But after everyone raving about it, I got curious.What can I say? ThamePo make falling in love feel so amazing, you just kinda want to fall in love with the way they are falling in love. You know, the "courting", the shy smiles, the long phone calls. The part when you are just giddy at the thought of spending time with your crush. The drama does it really well.
I was surprised how fast the drama passed. At ep. 9 I felt like barely anything had happened, but at the same time it did?
The story line to save MARS was cute, but it made me go crazy how none out of 5 people considered to speak to any lawyer regarding their contracts. Also the ending made no sense with the CEO suddenly deciding to play nice and STILL no laywers involved? Like on the one hand it showed realistic things, such as angry fans that were pissed at their idol to be dating. But then wrap up the whole show in the most unrealistic way ever.
Also I am convinced we were robbed of Emo!Thame writing sad love songs. And I wanted to see the reaction of Netizens when they find out about ThamePo!! Can't believe we were robbed of this.
The acting was not bad, considering it was mostly their first time. Unfortunately, I had just watched something else with really good acting performances so the difference was stark. I have seen far worse acting in BL, though. WilliamEst have good chemistry, I look forward to more projects hopefully!
Music was really nice! Ironically, we don't get a scene of one of the protagonists standing on stage with a guitar, singing to his bae.
I rated the rewatch value rather low, because (as of right now) I don't really feel the itch to rewatch.
Overall, it's a good drama though. IMO just not the best GMMTV has ever produced.
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Why Thamepo Feels So Real
Thamepo had me hooked right from the start. I really liked how they showed Po’s real-life struggles, especially how hard it was for him to find a job. It felt super realistic, and I think a lot of people can relate to that.Eventually, Po becomes a videographer for a boy band called MARS, and that’s where he meets Thame, the group’s leader. There’s definitely some tension between them at first, which made things even more interesting.
WillEast (Thame and Po) have undeniable chemistry. Their acting is on point especially for actors who don’t get as much attention as they deserve. They’re great at expressing emotions, even through just subtle looks or actions.
For me, Thamepo stands out as a more realistic take on BL set in the idol industry. Thame might seem cold at first, but as the story goes on, you realize he’s actually a major green flag.
Jun’s character is kind of confusing, but in a good way—it adds some extra spice to the plot. The cinematography is also really well done, and I love how the relationship between Thame and Po slowly builds over time.
Overall, I found Thamepo touching, heartwarming, and well-written. It’s definitely worth watching.
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An unexpected gem
Perhaps it was the lack of expectations going into this that made this watch so enjoyable. This had the recipe for potential disappointment i.e. idol group turning to acting, teen-centric theme, new leads, a predictable storyline. Glad this wasn't eye candy, fan-fodder, BL cliche stuff and was actually well-scripted and beautifully filmed (lighting, cinematography, musicality), with well-thought out characters.I personally really liked Pemika, Po and Thame's characters. And while i understand the purpose of Bifern's character, it sometimes felt a little too scripted and propaganda-ish, although I liked how they gave the character a chance to articulate the emotions fans feel and the complex relationship they build with their idols. It gave audiences a peek into the fandom universe and fan psyche.
The pacing was comfortable with good control of emotions throughout the entire series, not too dramatic, not too mellow, with a peppering of light-hearted moments. The leads also had good chemistry and I liked that the show wasn't overly focused on them and their romance and actually fleshed out the relationship of the group's members. Some of my favourite parts were when Thame was trying to win his members back, the press conference and conversation between Thame and Gam, and the scene when Po asked Thame if he felt tired. The dialogue between the two leads was also very poetic, and their romance had a nice build up with an underlying tension of unstoppable attraction mixed with a pervasive fear of exposure. The process of them falling in love was just beautiful to watch.
Aside from some strange choices in plot design (e.g. how they somehow managed to keep Thame apart from everyone in the company despite the upcoming concert, and the rescue mission), this was a very enjoyable watch that would tug at your heart strings.
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I was surprised
Honestly when I read about idol and non celebrity romance I thought it will be superficial story without any obstacles but I was surprised that they actually tried to show challenges with dating someone popular and within music industry.For me story was very immersing. I felt connected to characters and even cried few times. I really like the acting.
Although title suggest that it is mostly ThamexPo romance focused I think It would be even greater if every member of group had it's own story more developed. It would feel more meaningful for the viewers to see all of their colours and make story more memorable.
I really liked rap battle episode. Their rap was actually good. It made this episode really exciting.
Dancing was so-so but honestly in comparison with other dramas when actors were dancing it was actually not bad.
It was more on the cute side when it comes to romance part and a little bit unrealistic but emotions were portrayed well so I didn't mind that much.
One thing I was iffy about is characters changing opinions that quickly. Like for me that part was the most unrealistic.
In conclusion it's a little bit on cute side romance. Story is fine but if they would put a bit more attention to it it would be great drama.
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This review may contain spoilers
Everyone keeps telling how great the chemistry between William & Est. So I decided to check this out to find out for myself. Hoho…Story about Thame & Po. Thame is the lead singer of Mars boyband. And Po is a new recruit, hired as a videographer to document behind the screen Mars group for their final concert before disbandment. The company had plans to send Thame to Korea & learn to be an Idol. & since Thame is the lead singer & the most famous from Mars, without him the company values Mars to be unworthy to be held on, therefore the company just planned to disband the group with the departure of Thame.
But soon, Po discovers hidden truth beyond the band disbandment, that it is all forced by company to Mars group, while all the members are really reluctant to be separated. So, starting with Thame, Po started to help the members to be united & find the strength to fight against the company. And with the right first impression between each other, & Thame-Po closer interaction with each other, slowly but surely their feelings begin to bloom into something else.
But the problem remains the same for Mars & their company. Will all the effort Thame, the group & Po put on Mars successfully make them stay together as the group or will the company still insist to disband the group & just send Thame to Korea by himself…? And how about the relationship between Thame-Po itself, will the fans ever discover their affair…? If so, what will the fans reaction be…?
That's pretty much the story without giving any more spoilers. Now what I like and don't.
What I like:
+ The chemistry between Willam & Est is like everybody talking about. Simple yet right.
+ The close truth to the ‘bad apples’ of the entertainment industry.
+ The Mars member relationship. After watching this, I realized that they really are indeed members of the LYKN group. I really hope their relationship is just like in the drama.
+ We all have mixed feelings for Pemika [CEO of Oner Entertainment]. Is she really bad as a person, because she just thinks about Oner’s interest & just ignores the member's wish? Or is she good, cause she really thinks of each member as an individual apart from the group? But I really happy my feeling for her right from the start.
Well overall this is really one good drama. Below I’ll write what I don’t like & that’s quite a big spoiler. So… Read it at your own risk...
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SPOILER ALERT!!!
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What I don’t like:
Although the drama is quite true about the bad of the entertainment industry, here are some stupid things that are not really in line with that perspective.
- How stupid for Thame-Po to be just out in the open space without really needing to conceal Thame's face, yet no one really photographs them together.
- How easy in the end Thame just admitted Po to be his boyfriend. I mean the last episode, where Po introduces Thame as his boyfriend, he’s not even bothered to ask his friend to not share the photo to the public…. Thame is still the idol in the end…
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Neat storyline.
What I like: the storyline is neat. I like the characterization of Thame and Po, it's really strong. Thame's decisions explain his age in my opinion hahaha. Then they were clear from the beginning about what they wanted. I also really like the tense between them, it's good, especially the tense in episode 9 🥵🥵 I was rolling around in excitement lol. Cursed episode 11 isn't too cursed, it's still understandable why they had to break up, it's not weird and forced like most GMM cursed episode 11s. The point is: neat.What I don't like, I think the title should be changed because ThamePo's part is less than MARS's business drama lol like I expected more BL but it's forgivable because MARS's drama is neat and not forced. Btw I don't really like the ending but maybe the best things are not always the best for us lol.
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A Refreshing Story
Honestly, I really liked this series. It wasn't perfect, and you could definitely see the areas where the novice actors could improve. But it was heartfelt and well thought out. It was refreshing to watch something slow and sweet. Every week, I looked forward to it, wondering where the characters would go, how it would end, and if Thame and Po would make it through.A big part of the story focused on the realities of being an idol—how companies control you, how it causes problems within groups, how people think they have the best intentions for you, how fans become rabid, and how dreams change as you move forward. Thame was stuck in the middle, and his desire to keep his group together (and we later find out is a shared sentiment between all of them) actually made things worse. Then Po came along, and suddenly, the plans to reunite and grow together felt possible again. Strange how one thing you thought was so mundane becomes a strong force in your life.
The friendship aspect was strong, too. The show emphasized the bond of Mars, highlighting each member's relationships and how Thame, despite his “martyr” attitude, was genuinely loved. The same went for Po and his relationships with his coworkers, MARS, and Fern.
The romance was subtle and sweet. You could tell Thame and Po cared for each other. The domestic moments, the desperation to maintain their connection, and how they valued the people around their partner were beautiful. Even minor characters got their moments to shine.
One of the highlights for me was how they introduced the concept of how leaving someone feels and how those being left behind feels at the beginning, and then brought it back later. Very well done.
Of course, as beautiful, sweet, and heartfelt as the story was, there were still some areas for improvement.
First, the series started strong, with good anticipation and dialogue. But towards the end, the episodes felt a bit rushed, and the build-up wasn’t sustained. For example, there was a very emotional scene that was well done on its own, but the scenes leading up to it did not have the right kind of build-up to really hit hard.
The ending was another point. It wasn’t bad, but it could have been more impactful considering the themes they were addressing. Still, it was nice to see the characters get a resolution and that plot twist--made it a bit more worthwhile.
Second, there was an episode near the end that focused on a table discussion, which felt unnecessary. It could have been executed better, and it lacked a sense of urgency. We knew that certain character was important to all of them, but it didn’t come across as that.
Third, the resolution for one character felt rushed. This character was already a ghost from the beginning so it would have been nice if the impact back to that character came with more profoundness. I know not everyone needs a special moment, but it didn’t have the impact it should have.
Lastly, the message. The series had good dialogue and points, but some decisions made it feel more preachy than sentimental. The delivery didn’t quite match the intended emotion which is sad-- considering the message is supposed to be good.
Despite that., everything was still good. So much so, that I want to highlight the beautiful main cast.
Est has grown so much. Seeing him in a lead role was great. His expressions and connection with the audience have improved, and he can sing now!
William showed promise from Project ALPHA, and it carried over. His stage expressions translate well on screen. He continues to prove that he is the star everyone knows he is.
Lego, Nut, Tui, and Hong are made for stardom. They’re talented musicians on their own right, and if they continue acting, they have a lot of potential to shine there too.
The OST was good, and LYKN + EST is very talented. This was a good series project for them.
Overall, ThamePo was good. I wish the characters happy lives and the cast more success. Highly recommended.
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Thame... oh how I love you
Oh my goodness where do I even start, I should have been taking notes while watching lol. I freaking LOVED this drama, it has been a long time since I have rated something 9/10 and honestly it takes a lot to get that but how could I not this was a masterpiece.Lets start off by saying COMMUNICATION!!! I hate a miscommunication trope and this drama delivered the exact opposite, like hello to the biggest green flag... Thame. Anytime Po doubted his feelings or his relationship with Thame, he was right there to reassure him. I cannot believe this is William's first drama because he absolutely crushed the role. Building off of that, WilliamEst chemistry is next level. Literally radiating through the screen you could feel how deeply they felt for each other, a big reason why I am now obssessed. I swear every episode I was holding my breath and completely and utterly locked in.
At the end of the day this was just such a good romance drama, I liked that there was only 1 couple and so we got to focus just on them. I have to talk about the tension, literally every episode, just a brush of their fingers or the nervous hand holding I squealed (actually out loud lol). I feel like every episode delivered, there wasn't 1 episode that I wanted to skip through useless parts/ moments, I truly loved every second of it (except Miss Pemika can burn in a fire fr).
This drama has so easily made it into my top lists, not only did everything I say above hit so hard but I loved the way they tackled issues surrounding idol relationships and toxic companies. I was so angry and upset with the fans when it came to Pepper and then so frustrated with ONER when it came to everything with Thame but it was also so needed. This is a reality for many idols and as a fan of idol groups myself it is important to remember at the end of the day idols are just human. I also loved how the main conflict between Thame and Po was so short, it wasn't dragged out multiple episodes, which don't get me wrong works for some dramas but this one it wasn't the main focus and didn't need to be. And yet there was still conflict throughout the series but it focused on other areas and topics.
Highly HIGHLY recommend!!
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I surprisingly enjoyed it
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.
Let me start by saying that this series was not on my radar to watch. However, I have been away for a short period ( 1 month), and I decided to watch this series. I am glad that I did, as I must say, I did enjoy it. I felt that William and Est did a good job here, as this was their first leading series. I liked some of the other main actors ( Lego, Hong and Nut) and some of the supporting characters ( Sammy and Drake) more than them, though, at times. I have watched previous series that dealt with singers, but this one dealt with the side that I know Kpop fans live in when someone from your fave group starts dating, what would be the outcome? It is a sad truth that these idols do apologise for just dating someone that they like and for just living their lives. So, it was sad seeing that in this series.
I must say that for sure, hands down, that Pemika was the villain of this story as I got so pissed off when I saw her as she was only trying to better the company and did not care for the boys (although it did seem at a time that she did). She is a strong contender for me for villain of the year.
I did enjoy this series while some parts I did not fully believe (these boys are big stars and no one is rushing them when they are walking in the open or sitting down there with no disguises on?!!) or not like (Earn could kick some rocks). All in all, I would recommend this series, especially if you are a fan of idols as they may go through some of the things that Mars did in this series.
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Serviceable, I guess
Right off the bat, I’ll admit that I prefer my stories on the dramatic side. But I’m not opposed to cuter, more happy-go-lucky couples, either! I really liked My only 12 % and My School President, for example. This series missed the mark for me, though.Sure, storywise the show isn’t revolutionary, but attempts were made. I’ll even go as far as saying that I liked certain plot points, like Pepper’s “dating scandal” and how the band members had to be convinced to trust Thame again. I also found many of the side characters quite charming, chief among them Jun, Dylan, Nano and Baifern.
What brought my rating down so far were Thame and Po — both as individual characters but especially as a couple they were a total snooze fest. They had about as much chemistry as the leads in 2gether, which is to say not very much at all. It just goes to show that you can’t simply throw any two actors together, have them film a couple of kissing scenes, and hope for the best. Not to mention that when the romantic storyline is far from riveting, you at least need both romantic leads to be played by convincing actors.
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