More a Lakorn than a BL
This is not so much a BL as it is a Lakorn and honestly, an exceptionally good one at that. I found myself completely engaged in these characters and what was happening. Truthfully, it has been a long time since I felt ‘good’ about watching a Thai series, but this one was exceptional and almost made it to my top 10 list. Almost. Some aspects of this series just could not be overlooked as it deflated what was otherwise an exceptional mythos for a change. Indeed, it sure is a soap opera-ish saga but the story line captures you from the beginning. Although the plot is your standard rather cliché-driven formatted subject matter, because of the enveloping acting, it excites your attention. It presented several unique factors that made watching hypnotic. While the premise is ubiquitous, it presented the evolvement with vicissitude to make the story compelling.Was this review helpful to you?
Peak was phenomenal as young Prince Saenkaew. And somehow, he managed to outdo himself in the final episodes. You could feel his pain as someone caught like a puppet in the hands of his father and Pin. Yet beneath all that vulnerability, he showed incredible courage by accepting his “fate” to save the man he loves.
Pearl brought Sasin to life with such depth. He never once hesitated in his love for Saenkaew, even when everything was stacked against them. He perfectly portrayed a man torn between loyalty to his cousin and his love for Saenkaew. Their chemistry? Off the charts. They had me from the very first scene. Every glance between them spoke volumes, no words needed. Truly, the eyes were the mirrors of the soul in this series.
Props to Perth Veerinsara for her portrayal of Pin, but I couldn’t connect with her character or believe in her love for Sasin. She knew from the start that her marriage to Saenkaew was arranged for family benefit. He never said he loved her, and always treated her with the same polite respect he gave everyone. Even in her talk with Sasin, she admits Saenkaew doesn’t love her, she just hoped he might one day. Did Sasin and Saenkaew mess up by not being honest with her? Absolutely. But that doesn’t excuse her cruelty, and I couldn’t buy into her redemption arc.
And I knew Saenkaew’s grandmother would support him! I loved that she performed the Sai Sin ceremony to symbolize the eternal bond between their souls.
As for Prince Kamfa… he deserved to live out his days alone. For a moment, I thought my wish had come true. Claiming he was just a concerned father doesn’t fly with me. He was cruel, immoral, and driven by greed. He should’ve faced consequences. That’s why the ending felt a bit unrealistic. Still, the series deserves a solid 10.
Rachawadi, Homthip, Songsawat, and Sanya, they all hold a special place in my heart. The OST is absolutely beautiful.
Was this review helpful to you?
Ernest acting and likable main actors who don’t do stupid things
Despite all the Lakhorn tropes, the main actors’ dedication to their roles shone true especially Peak. The storyline was great and the timing and pacing was also good. I was glad I waited for the final 4 episodes to binge or it would have been hard the final week of waiting.Despite all the evil and greedy family members, MVP goes to the people who truly loved the couple and only wanted them to be happy: Rachawadi, Songsawat, Homthip and Sasin’s friends.
I hope they produce more of such stories to showcase that love regardless of gender and sexuality cannot be wrong; but marrying for any other motive is.
Easily one of the top BL shows this year, and surprisingly from a main Thai channel. Hope it is successful enough that it will spawn more in the future. We need such shows to change peoples minds to accept love in all its forms.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Disappointing ending but at least our main couple is happy.
Finally came around to watch the two last episodes with subs after watching them live last Monday and Tuesday...Sadly I'm still pissed.
This series to me has an amazing start. The emotional buildup between Saenkaew and Sasin was chef's kiss. You could see how both of them fell in love with each other... The way they looked at each other was EVERYTHING. However once both got together, the drama gave priority to the classic lakhorn over the top angst and didn't let go. Basically our two mains kept crying their eyes out up to the last episode.
Still I hang on because episode 12 was two hours so they were bound to give us some sweet times between our leads after what they and WE had endured for weeks.
Sadly we only got a few crumbs of fanservice. Most of episode 12 flew by though. Lots of things happening so there was no time to get bored but I was still frustrated. The final episode focused more on all the side characters than our couple...
And the final nail in the coffin... Was how two of the most undeserving characters got forgiven.
I checked neither Pin nor Saenkaew's Father even said the word "sorry" ( But Saenkaew did apologize repeatedly for being a disgusting HOMO until the last minute 🤬🤬🤬). I just can't.
The fact that basically the only reason they finally managed to elope was because Pin "allowed them" to be together pissed me off. These two didn't need anyone's permission thank you very much but I guess the show wanted us to forgive her, so ok. I'll let it go.
While I can let go of Pin's awful behavior, the father though was unredeemable. No amount of crocodile tears can erase the years of mental abuse he put his son through. I was done with this character the moment he blamed his son for his wife's death.
That's the most cruel thing he could do to his own son not even mentioning the fact that he repeatedly called him "disgusting". I don't care that he did it because he was afraid for his son.
This can excuse some behaviors to a certain degree, but the father was a controlling ass**le who never even bothered to even try to listen to Saenkaew's plan to reach a better compromise. And then even trying to kill Sasin... Only letting go because his son threatened to commit suicide. I mean in what way exactly am I supposed to be satisfied with the way he got a happy family picture by the end?
I honestly didn't care for Pin's father's death... But as much as a jerk Saenkaew's Uncle was, he didn't deserve to be killed mercilessly the way he was.
Finally as much as I don't like Pin, this girl still deserves better than staying in a loveless marriage. She deserves the divorce and starting a new life with somebody who loves her... while obviously keeping close ties with Sasin and Saenkaew. After all they're family. This sadly was never shown. But I'm going to assume that's what they did, otherwise, that would be too cruel.
There was this very interesting comment by oddsare which she posted a couple of days ago:
https://kisskh.at/778234-salak-rak-nai-saengjan#comment-23915192
I think it's really on point when she explains that we have to accept that cultural logic trampled narrative logic with how the father and Pin got no consequences for their actions ( except not seeing his son for one year but let's be honest here... That's NOTHING).
I was hoping that a week after the ending, I would have calmed down... But sadly no.
Still. It was an amazing ride. I loved sharing ideas here, weeks after weeks... and ruining my working days because of my obsession ( No longer watching anything live now, honestly it's hell to be disciplined when you work from home, and I failed miserably😭😭😭)
I will try to remember that a satisfying ending for me might not be a satisfying ending for these characters. Sasin is attached to his cousin Pin, and Saenkaew still loves his abusive father (that's called Stokholm's syndrom and he needs therapy) and delulu Grandma. Neither Sasin nor Saenkaew want them out of their lives in spite of what they've made them go through.
So as much as I H.A.T.E.D this ending and think it S.U.C.K.E.D, I'm gonna make peace with it.
I'll try to remember the journey, not the destination. And it was an amazing journey but one I won't go through twice.
Removing 1.5 points for that shitty ending lacking fanservice.
Final rating: 8.5
Was this review helpful to you?
Gloriously Dramatic
Totally didn’t expect much going into this lakorn, but wow—it really delivered. I mean, sure, lakorns are known for their wild plot twists and over-the-top drama, and this one definitely leaned into that with full force. But somehow, it worked. The twists were intense, sometimes borderline outrageous, but they kept me hooked the whole way through. Honestly, I’d even say this is one of my favorites this year. What really stood out was how the story tackled the experience of being a gay man during that time period. It was done with so much nuance and care, and the way it was woven into the political backdrop – super clever. The pacing was smooth, the story arcs felt well thought out, and the acting—chef’s kiss. Peak was such a pleasant surprise. I didn’t expect him to carry the role so well, but he really nailed it. And the actress who played Pin? She was incredibly convincing. Also, shoutout to the music. It elevated the emotional beats so much—it didn’t just sit in the background, it actually helped shape the mood. All in all, this series was a ride I didn’t see coming, and I’m glad I hopped on. A solid 4 out of 5 stars from me.Was this review helpful to you?
Beautifully Crafted Poignant Love Story
Love in the Moonlight is a heartfelt and captivating Boys’ Love (BL) series that beautifully captures the essence of first love, vulnerability, and emotional growth. From the very first episode, it pulls you into a world filled with warmth, sincerity, and breathtaking cinematography that perfectly complements its touching story.The chemistry between the leads is nothing short of magical. Their interactions feel natural and deeply emotional, allowing viewers to experience every flutter of nervous affection and every ache of longing right alongside them. The series doesn’t rely on clichés; instead, it explores love in a way that feels genuine, tender, and deeply human.
One thing I have to mention is the character Pin. Honestly, I hated her for most of the series — her actions were frustrating and often stood in the way of the leads’ happiness. But what she did in the end completely changed my perspective. Her final decision showed growth, courage, and understanding, adding a layer of emotional depth to the story that I really appreciated. It was a great reminder that even characters we dislike can surprise us and play an important role in the narrative.
What truly sets Love in the Moonlight apart is its storytelling. It balances moments of quiet reflection with powerful emotional beats, all while maintaining a sense of hope and authenticity. The writing is thoughtful, the pacing is engaging, and the character development feels organic — you can really see how love transforms both protagonists over time.
Visually, the series is stunning. The moonlight motif isn’t just poetic — it’s woven beautifully into the narrative, symbolizing guidance, connection, and the courage to love openly. The music also enhances the mood perfectly, elevating both romantic and poignant moments.
Overall, Love in the Moonlight is more than just a BL series — it’s a story about understanding, acceptance, and the universal language of love. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the genre or just discovering it, this series is a must-watch. It will stay with you long after the final scene fades.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) — A luminous, emotionally rich masterpiece that celebrates love in all its forms.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Love Against the Crown: A Tale of Devotion, Deception, and Defiant
This series masterfully intertwines themes of forbidden love, unrequited affection, greed, homophobia, and corruption. Beautifully paced, it delivers an outstanding screenplay, complemented by breathtaking cinematography and a well-balanced soundtrack that enhances every emotional beat.Set in 1963, the story follows Prince Saenkaew, Sasin, and Pin through a journey of love, secrecy, and sacrifice. Prince Saenkaew has always known he was gay, but when his parents discover the truth, tragedy ensues. Burdened by his father’s strict expectations, he suppresses his true self, until he meets Sasin.
Sasin and Pin are cousins who share a close, sibling-like bond. However, Prince Saenkaew is forced into an arranged marriage with Pin, despite not loving her. Sasin begins to suspect something is wrong and pushes Prince Saenkaew to open up. After witnessing the prince’s father physically abuse him and hearing unsettling words, Sasin starts uncovering the painful truth.
Determined to help, Sasin joins Prince Saenkaew in plotting to stop the wedding. During their secret late-night meetings, the two start to develop deep feelings for each other. Once there plan succeeds, they would confess everything to Pin, but disaster strikes.
Prince Kamfa, Saenkaew’s father, becomes aware of their closeness and resorts to despicable measures, threats, manipulation, and even attempted murder, to separate them. His cruelty is horrifying, he blames his son for a death, telling him its because of his sexuality, revealing the depth of his corruption and greed. Even with his reasons, it doesn’t excuse anything.
When Pin learns the truth about Prince Saenkaew and Sasin, she is consumed by heartbreak and anger. Despite knowing Saenkaew can never love her as she wishes, saying bitterly, “I will end up in pain no matter what, so I should just get married, and all three of us will end up in pain together.”
Her pain intensifies when she discovers that nearly all of their friends already knew. Though it’s understandable she felt betrayed, she fails to fully recognize that being homosexual was considered deeply taboo, something one could not speak of openly. Her reaction, while human, is guided by love, jealousy, and sorrow.
Rachawadi, the owner of a nightclub and a voice of wisdom in the story, offers Pin a poignant warning:
“One day you could wake up and realize that a man who loved you with all his heart looks at you full of hatred. One day you could hear Prince Saenkaew call your name, but it isn’t in the gentle tone like he used to. Instead, his voice will be full of anger and torment. That is the day you will finally realize the taste of real pain.”
This prophecy comes true as Pin’s attempts to force Saenkaew’s love only deepen her suffering. Eventually, she sees the truth of Rachawadi’s words. When her parents, Bodin and Wad, discover the affair and plot to exploit it for financial gain. Her parents are truly despicable and it shows with the measures they were willing to take to get what they wanted. Pin finally chooses to do the right thing knowing she would still be in pain but it would pass over time.
In a touching moment, Saenkaew’s grandmother discovers their relationship after witnessing them share a kiss. Fearing rejection, Saenkaew apologizes, but to his surprise, she accepts him warmly, saying that if he had confided in her sooner, she would have helped. Her compassion provides a rare moment of light and hope in their turbulent journey.
However, more trouble follows as Prince Saenkaew and Sasin plans their big escape. It’s deeply unsettling to witness how every parent in the series manipulates their children for personal and financial gain. The sheer greed and selfishness displayed are both heartbreaking and infuriating, adding another layer of tragedy to an already emotional story.
One character who truly stood out was Homthip. From the beginning, she empathized deeply with Prince Saenkaew, understanding the pain of hiding his true self to please a cruel father and survive his uncle Inthra’s constant attempts to expose him. Homthip supported the couple steadfastly, proving herself to be the story’s true MVP.
Overall, this series was an emotional triumph, beautifully acted, thoughtfully written, and profoundly moving. Every performance felt authentic, every scene deliberate. I’m very pleased that almost everyone got the ending they deserved. It’s one of the strongest Thai BL dramas of 2025, and without question, one of my personal favorites of the year.
Was this review helpful to you?
Genuinely captivating
I haven't found a new favourite show in a long time, but this is definitely on the list now.I truly enjoyed this drama from start to end. Great tension, perfectly portrayed emotions, the leads went all out. This is a show for those who love angst, yearning, and a soft, gentle relationship between leads. It starts off with distrust and doubts, but transcends beyond this; there's a bit of an enemies-to-lovers energy in the beginning for sure.
I find myself thinking about the show a lot now; it's fresh in my mind, and I truly cannot get enough of it.
The sets are beautiful, and there are many memorable scenes and moments. I was truly immersed throughout the show. I felt angry, emotional, and also so happy I couldn't help smiling. It's definitely dramatic, but for good reason. I fully recommend this one.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
A true masterpice BL lakorn
when I heard about this lakorn at first, I wasn't that interested because One 31 does tend to release similar lakorns over the years: To Sir, with Love, I feel You Linger in The Air, Century of Love and while I've loved all of them, they do tend to get repetitive. But I decided to give LITM a chance and boy did it surprise me! Although it does share a lot of similarities, I do feel like this went more into the neaty- gritty of the era 1960's when the small countries around Thailand were facing crises in needed to find a way to survive. It's a tale of forbidden love between a price and a commoner. Not only that but they are both men completely taboo. Love in the Moonlight really gets into the homophobia of the time, the struggle young Asian man faced i n those times and although they still face that prejudice it's good to know that we've come so far since then, even if we do still have a way to go. Saenkaew's story is a heartbreaking one when he has to face prejudice even from his own father. Those scenes were so hard to watch because the homophobia he faced was coming from the one person who was supposed to protect him. I wanted to kill Kamfah myself at times. Despite that, Saenkeaw perseveres never letting his father break him even when it seems he has. And that's why I loved his character he may seem weak at first, but I got to say that despite the harsh reality he faced he never really gave up and fought for the man he loved. Sasin was the best compliment for him, smart, outspoken, sassy, protective, romantic and so full of love! He did everything he could to make sure Saenkaew was always protected and loved no matter if he got hurt at time.Although Sasin and Saenkaew's story may be hard to watch at times, it is important, so the audience knows how history shaped who we are today as a society. I feel like stories like this need to be told. They may be fictional but there is some truth to it too. Who knows if there was a Sasin and Saenkaew back then after all. Hopefully, if there was, they were able to find their happy ending like Sasin and Saenkaew did.
The ambitation of the story really made me feel like I was in the '60's One 31 did a good job with the costumes & the sets but overall the feeling of the series. The immenent homophobia surrounding these men, It broke my heart all the pain that Sasin and Saenkaew went thru.
Pin's character was a tough one. Her tale and suffering was akin to a lot of women of her time, told to shut up, and take any marriages of convinience their family chooses for them. But that was not my problem with her, my problem was how she handled everything when she found out the truth. She became the worst of society back then even if she was a victim herself. It was hard to feel for her. I'm happy that they redeemed her in the end. She realized that she was only hurting everyone and helped. Her redemption worked for me way better than Kamfah's did.
After what that disgusting pos father did to Saen and Sasin thru out the whole series, he deserved a miserable death. Not to be forgiven and happy for the end of his miserable life. I hate when bl writers never have the cajones to make the biggest villains pay. Who cares if they are the parents just wrong to let them off. They write then so much like villains for the whole story and then just expect the audience to accept that? I don't think so! That was my only complaint in this story and disappointment.
Aside from the rapament homophobia I'm so happy that Sasin had people with him, who loved him enough to back him when he needed them Even if his friends were not 100% comfortable with Sasin loving another man, in the end that didn't matter to them. All they wanted was for him to be happy. I'm glad that they were here because they were a breath of fresh air among all the other homophobes. Sasin and SaenKaew's love story was a beautiful one. It touched me deeply. Even though they went thru so much pain, they never stopped loving each other or gave up on each other either. Sasin's love for Saenkaew was breathtaking. Like I said, tough story to watch but an important one. The writers did an excellent job! They took me thru an emotional ride every episode and the payoff was worth it. Just wish the Kamfah end would have been handled better.
First time watching PearPeak but I'm going to say that they won me over! Not only with their incredible acting but their chemistry was top notch! They easily became my favorite new cp this year and I can't wait to see what's next for them. Perth was also amazing as Pin, first time seeing her too but she's an amazing actress hope she continues getting roles that make her shine.
The music was gorgeous. It accented every scene and moment where the OST was played. I listen to the songs frequently and I can picture the scenes in my head. Over all 10/10. Such a masterpiece from beginning to end. I know I will be watching over and over because Love in The Moonlight has now become one of my favorite BL's ever. I'm going to miss it.
Was this review helpful to you?
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
WHEN TRUE LOVE BECOMES A PILLAR OF A WILL TO LIVE
Absolutely amezing, the story is a masterpiece, captivating and truely well told, the whole production Team you deserve a praise.
I loved that ,There is realism into the story , for Prince Khamfa to believe that all you do for you children is to pile up wealth, and that the importance of how others see you ,then you ignore the mental wellbeing of your child,
For Pin : to be a woman in that time it's just heart breaking to see her being ignored, and no-one sat down with her to consider her feelings. also forcing her delusional love to someone else, can be so dengerous. It could have ended in tragedy.
Greed from everyone, which will make you forget about your family ,to the point of murdering each other.
The scene of getting into the train and leave everything behind is absolutely beautiful, it's healing and made me love Seankeaw even more, he gave up all to be with his Sasin.
"To know that you are alive is my reason and my strength to wake up every morning " the love between Seankaew and Sasin is so strong and beautiful 😍.
Was this review helpful to you?
Sored to become my favorite show I’ve ever watched
If you’re considering watching this show, please give it a chance. It’s one of the most beautiful and well made shows I’ve ever seen and that’s saying something considering hiw many bls I’ve watched.I was constantly intrigued and cried more than once while binging it in the span of two days (I have a 9-5 too).
I could understand each and every characters perspectives because they werent purposefully trying to hide details like other writers will sometimes. Every single actor nailed their role ans made me feel something for each one.
The love story between Sasin and Saenkaew was simply beautiful and heart wrenching. The connection and chemistry they had was mesmerizing to watch. I’ve actually been repeating certain scenes just to feel the emotions again.
The music was also beautiful and the scenes the osts were added to were perfectly done. I couldn’t have asked for better song choice or placement.
I highly highly recommend this show to anyone that sees this. It opens your eyes to so many social issues and the feelings of those who are trying to prioritize family and duty over love and vice versa. Give it an honest chance and I’m sure your emotions will go on a rollercoaster from this heart wrenching but lovely show
Was this review helpful to you?
