This review may contain spoilers
It's now the time to support an ongoing BL Series!
Gelboys got me intrigued before watching it because of how good the editing was, when I watched a clip of it in TikTok. Where to watch? It is an original but IQIYI, so you must watch it there.The story revolves around Fou4Mod, a typical student, who always carry a guitar and takes a train to go to school. He recently broke up with his partner, since he found-out through the girl's notification that she is cheating on him. He is part of a squad and is a close friend of Baabin. One day, he saw a nails shop, got intrigued, and went inside to get his nails done.
Since the day he got his nails designed, he's been taking care of it. One day, while washing his hands, Chian, a co-student who's also have designed nails, also washed his own hands in the same sink that Fou4mod was washing. That started the spark of their interactions. Chian followed Fou4mod on his social media accounts. They also went to the same nail shop to get their nails done.
Eventually, Fou4mod, became interested on Chian in a way that he changed his phone to an Iphone since Chian has an Iphone device. He also followed back Chian on all of his social media accounts.
Later in the episode, Fou4mod, showed signs of jealousy from Chian's attention, since the latter also has a best friend named Bua, who we saw in the earlier part of the episode is taking a kpop dance video in the public.
Basically, this story is the typical type of BL Series about a teenager falling in love.
The series is great, must recommended, and must watch because of how great the 1st episode of it. In terms of editing, the scenes, and the set designs, it was perfectly done. The staffs really did a great job in putting all together the technicalities of the scenes. I just hope that the next episodes will be consistent in terms of these aspects.
The casts are also all good looking and has a fresh vibe of an actor. The main lead, Fou4mod, also have a good body as we all saw in the first part of the episode (That shocked me, tbh!). Later in the succeeding episodes, we'll get to know more the story and characters.
What are you waiting for? Watch it now, as another episode is coming out later!
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iconic but too much
I liked the vibes. I liked the acting, the aethetics. I liked the plot.At first it was intriguing and new. But as episodeds go on the plot keeps going back in circle. Its like a slow or no progress. Thanks it has only seven episodes. If this should have been a movie then it will be perfect.
To be honest, I did not actually enjoyed as much but still I liked it.
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Love Triangles? Try A Whole Geometry Class
Gelboys is a coming-of-age story that captures all the messy, emotional chaos of Gen Z teenage life, crushes, situationships, jealousy, and all the drama that comes with it. It really reflects how teens today live, especially with social media playing such a big role in their lives.What I love about this series is how real and authentic it feels. The story doesn’t try to sugarcoat anything. It shows teens making mistakes, falling in love, getting hurt, and figuring themselves out along the way.
Visually, the series is gorgeous. The aesthetic is really well done, and the busy city setting adds this energetic, youthful vibe that fits the story perfectly. The acting from all four leads is incredibly natural—it never feels forced. Each character shows a wide range of emotions and brings something different to the mix, which makes the dynamics even more interesting.
Now, let’s talk about the plot (it’s a wild ride):
* Person A likes Person B.
* Person B likes Person C, but stays in a situationship with Person A until Person C agrees to date him (yep, it’s a deal). Total breadcrumber energy.
* Person C is Person B’s best friend—not actually in love with him, but craves his attention and probably uses him for clout and likes. Later on, Person C ends up liking Person D.
* Person D is Person A’s best friend and secretly has feelings for him. Sadly, Person A kind of uses Person D to make Person B jealous.
* Eventually, Person A dated his girl friend—probably a rebound move. But they didn't end up together.
Gelboys is not a lighthearted watch. It’s messy, chaotic, and painful at times, but that’s exactly what makes it so engaging. It portrays the emotional rollercoaster of youth without holding back.
This series reminds me of Only Friends by GMMTV —but in a teen version.
No surprise there, since the screenwriter also worked on I Told Sunset About You, which explains why this series feels so emotionally layered and beautifully written.
Overall, Gelboys is a well-crafted, emotionally rich series that really stands out. In my opinion, it’s one of the most intriguing shows I’ve seen lately. 💅
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WOW, Such a Genuine Series
The acting, in Gelboys, exceeds the acting in ANY BL series (and most non-BL series’), that preceded it! These, relative, newcomers (some literally), are giving off such natural, instinctual, almost improvisational vibes with their acting in this series—it’s just incredible. The story is basic, but realistic, genuine, really heart-felt, and down-to-earth. It’s so relatable to anybody, who has experienced one-sided love, wanting more than friendship, heartbreak, and everything in between.I left out how relevant it is, too.
It’s like independent film-making at its finest. IMHO
I really can’t praise this show enough!
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Musings on Ep6 of GelBoys - the Thai BL reset
The feminist ethic of care, the sine qua non of BL that separates it from mainstream gay media, is conspicuous in Gel Boys by how the creators address its absence. It is absent in some (three) of the relationships, but it is very present in (two) others. Before a couple can become good lovers, this production suggests, they must first become good friends.Women can relate to this current in the narrative well because they suffer this in their relationships with men all the time; men who they’re genuinely interested as people refuse to maintain close relationships of emotional intimacy with women if they won’t get the sexual payoff they prioritise more. In that sense this seam in the narrative is not about being gay rather but *Masculinity* not allowing men to be fully human by having their emotional repertoire restricted to a narrow range of potentials. This is harmful to men as well as women because, if we are to thrive in the emotional sphere, transactional relationships cannot be a human norm.
The provocative means by which GelBoys raises male sexual ethics, in all its simplicity and occasionally its complexity, is what makes each episode gripping. I’ve watched some adult BL reactors writhe in discomfort not just because we’ve all had these experiences as teenagers but because for many men this is still the painful and unfulfilling reality they live. GelBoys strikes us all in a visceral way.
The red/flag green flag discourse these provocations elicited among viewers may have been more useful if they weren’t misinterpreted by an excess of postmodernesque “every transgression is valid”. The subtle distinction being missed by many is not simplistically that we shouldn’t write-off young people as red flags while they’re still developing their characters, as too many mistakenly assert, but that its in the interest of young people that behaviours which are objectively red flags should not be minimised or go unchallenged regardless of age. The urgency of this second more correct reading is obvious in the crisis of loneliness, alienation and emotional disconnection we can see adult males complaining of today. Bad habits formed in childhood and not broken early are extremely difficult to jettison in adulthood.
Good Relationships are Ends in Themselves:
In Ep6 we’re not only fully aware of Bua’s manipulating patterns but why. He wants and needs to be the centre of someone’s life and he is willing to use sex to do it. Again the narrative is pointing to how men use sex not just to get the relational intimacy they really crave but also to how sex is used as a substitute when they can’t get it.
We do not know definitively what Bua’s sexual orientation is but we do know he has a hole inside him that social media cannot compensate for, ie the basis of all love - care. As such Bua’s relationships with Chian, Moo and Baabin are means to an end, not ends in themselves. Bua’s relations with other boys so far cannot be considered to be motivated by care and therefore not love; they are not even reciprocal, just extractive. This inevitably frustrates and hurts everyone involved.
Similarly Fou4Mod didn’t need to introduce a sexual aspect to his relationship with Faifa. They already had a solid relationship, however Fou4Mod needs the peer validation he thinks only a sexual relationship can provide so he *uses* Faifa for that. Through this exploitative miscalculation he loses one of his most dependable and non-tractional relationships.
GelBoys Critique of Masculinity Norms:
GelBoys’ conveying of Baabin’s character returns the Uke to his rightful place as star of the BL Show, something that has been missing in dozens of recent productions. Baa is the least conforming to the masculinity norm of not investing relationships with care. Baa is also straightforward with his opinions; speaks the truth sometimes gently, sometimes harshly; is faithful to his own feelings, and is empathetic to the emotional needs of others.
Hence, Baabin in their kissing scene, is characteristically honest to Bua saying the kiss is just a curiosity for him, not a declaration of romantic intent. Which is fine as the odd one-off because he’s a teenager and this is experimentation done with full disclosure, which Bua accepted without so much as a wrinkle.
The next morning Baabin makes the effort to hide his gel manicured toes so they won’t raise a problem when he’s alone with Fou4Mod because he’s ready to mend their estrangement and he’s conscious of F4M’s fragile emotional state. Baabin repeats his identical position in the 4-way zoom meeting – he’s not romantically interested in Bua.
How anyone could have seen the lead up to that kiss scene, listened to their dialogue afterwards which is congruent to both characters in the scene, and conclude that this was going to be a love match, I do not know. Perhaps this says how much our generation has become inured to sexual relations without any emotional element of care as an acceptable norm for men.
What’s up with Chian’s sudden 180 degree:
Similarly, Chian, a person who has had no romantic interest in F4M for 5 episodes but was happy to fool round with in case it is instrumental to spur Bua to get jealous and somehow return his affection, is in real time, suddenly ready to commit to F4M? Didn’t we just watch him despairing that his post isn’t even being viewed by his close “friends”?
Isn’t Chian also having a crisis of loneliness, defined by lack of social media attention - not lack of F4M, when he is motivated to act out of character by the realisation that F4M might be at a loose end? Should we not take Chian’s historical context as relevant to his real desires? Even Fou4Mod is shocked at this abrupt about turn.
No Love is Presented as a Transaction:
So far it’s been a game of schemes and transactions for Chian and Bua in the way they have dealt with each other as well as with Fou4Mod and then Baabin. Only the romantic affection of Fou4Mod for Chian, and that of Baabin for Fou4Mod seem to me to be sincere and demonstrate authentic care – Fou4Mod and Baabin pursue these relationships as ends in themselves. These motivations and actions are more likely to result in a love relationship - once they’re directed at the right target.
Now having said that, I don’t know where the writer will take things from here in the episode seven finale. Still I sincerely do not want to see a time-skip cop-out like IPYTM instead of a conflict resolution arc and a rebuilding of earned trust in the relationship first as friends, then as boyfriends.
Onto Ep 7…
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I will have to rethink the rating on series I have watched because of this series.
Just watch it.If you feel uncomfortable, marginalized, anxious, keep watching it.
If you feel confused, uncomfortable, annoyed, keep watching it.
If you feel angry, hopeless, and jealous, just keep watching it.
This is the joy of youth, of first love, and of the world that seems huge and at the same time so small ...a single "like" from someone special.
Modern, colorful and consistent child of its time. The series is so strangely beautiful that I would like to get to know it better, understand it and experience it.
The actors did an excellent work . The photography is right on point with the darkest and brightest colors I've ever seen. I admire Boss's work. "Last Twilight in Phuket" is the reason I started watching BL and "Gelboys" will be the reason I continue to search to discover such beautifully inspired work.
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This review may contain spoilers
Aaaah.. How to start...I think some series are made for fun and entertainment, and some are art. This one is art. I think a part of me has change after watching it.
First of all, the way it's filmed, bring so much more than words. I mean for exemple, the scene in episode 7, where Bua and Baabin are talking, the way it's filmed - i don't know the word - make it seem they are kissing. It show great intimacy, even without physical touch or no word.
Maybe I read too much between lines, but the way their nails is a representation of their feelings, is so cool. Baabin and Bua putting gel on their toenails because they want to be discret about nails - and their "relationship" -. Baabin trying to hide his toenails because he want to hide his feelins - and feeling to do both, plus I think wearing two pair of socks may be uncomfortable as much as hiding your feelings. And the way they wants matching nails at the end, because their feelings are now mutuals.
Only wanted to mention that. But I love when Chian say "just accept Bua", to Baabin when they were on phone. The parallel between the phone call and his feelings... Maybe there are more parallel betweens their feelings and others things such as like on tiktok for Bua and Close friend for Fou4mod and Chian.
Wanted to mention a silly thing, but Bua gave me gender euphoria. Didn't know I could feel that for a character, but it's part of the reasons of why I love him so much.
They represent really teenage love, stupid, losers, makes mitsakes and I love them for that.
Also, I love their music references, great band and artist - and I discorver a few because of them.
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WHY DO I THINK GELBOYS IS PEAK CINEMA?
"Gelboys" isn't just another high school romance; it's a quiet reflection on the ripple effects of our everyday actions. What struck me most about this series is its ability to highlight how seemingly small choices and interactions can significantly impact the lives of those around us. The characters, navigating their complex web of friendships and budding romantic feelings, are a poignant reminder that we often exist within our own bubbles, oblivious to the subtle ways our words and actions can wound or heal.The show masterfully portrays the delicate balance between self-absorption and empathy. It gently nudges viewers to consider the perspectives of others, prompting introspection about our own tendencies to prioritize our feelings over the potential hurt we might inflict. The "slice-of-life" approach, coupled with the authentic Gen Z digital aesthetics, creates a relatable and immersive experience.
While the romantic entanglements provide the narrative drive, the series' true strength lies in its ability to reveal the unspoken emotional undercurrents that connect and divide us. "Gelboys" is a thoughtful exploration of human connection, urging us to be more mindful of the invisible threads that bind us to one another. If you're looking for a series that will make you reflect on your own interactions and the impact you have on the world, this one is definitely worth watching. It is a series that leaves you with a lingering sense of emotional awareness.
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YET ANOTHER MASTERPIECE FROM BOSS KUNO
Honestly, I couldn't believe to relate to a series this much ! the production, sets, raw emotions delivered, and insane plots which were so realistic that even it felt like my own life in my teens lol, I'm in love with this show ngl this show made me feela rollercoaster of all emotions and i made my way thru the final episode. The way of directing was so unique and nothing less can be expected from the legend boss kuno himself, trust me you gotta give this a try, you either love it or hate it, there's no in between. THANKYOU BOSS FOR BRINGING GELBOYS INTO MY LIFE !!Was this review helpful to you?
A hauntingly accurate and visceral depiction of adolescence
Genuinely in shock over how good this was.I saw someone on reddit describe gelboys and cringey, suffocating, and deeply human and I couldnt agree more. I feel like this show gave me PTSD of my own teenage experience. I felt my heart beating out of my chest and my face red with embarrassment over so many scenes. I was feeling things I haven't felt in years. 😂
The cinematography (that was done using only an iPhone?!) was so unique. It felt vouyouristic, almost as if you were standing at the sidelines of these four boys lives and just seeing glimpses of them.
The script was fantastic, I felt like it perfectly represented how gen z (or young teenagers in general) interact with each other and see the world. It felt very cringey, but in an incredibly believable and real way. Like yes, so much of this story could have been solved by simple direct communication with each other BUT THAT'S NOT THE POINT, that's not reality! Humans (especially teenage ones) can be incredibly obtuse and hurtful to one another, or do embarrassing and shameful things for the sake of their own benefit.
The acting was actually insane. I (unfortunately) am incredibly sensitive to watching poor or over the top acting and have dropped so many other bl shows because I couldn't get past it. But New, Pide, PJ, and Leon were amazing! I can't believe they all had little to no acting experience when they came on to this show (it's giving Skins vibes tbh). The script for this show is actually so minimal that the acting is so important. There are so many scenes of long silent close ups on the actors faces or scenes where even when they are not the focal point of a shot, their facial expressions and actions work to add more context to the overarching scene. I was so so impressed!
The last thing I need to mention is the chemistry between the cast, in particular, PJ and Leon as Baabin and Bua. I was OBSESSED with them. They were so sweet and heartbreaking and I need 10 more shows of them playing across from each other. (Baabinbua spin-off when?!)
Edit: I can't believe I forgot to mention the whole aesthetics and fashion of this show too. The styling was genuinely so much fun to see! Just so colorful and bright! Bring nails! Bright clothes! Bright everything! I looked forward to seeing new styles in every episode. I'm envious, I almost wish I wore as many bright colors and styles as these guys 😂
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GAG
Gelboy totally captivated me! This teen series, a genre I particularly love, offers a relevant analysis of our current society, notably through its exploration of social networks. The modern vibe and references to cult series like "Skam", "Degrassi", "Skins", and "Sex Education" reinforced my enthusiasm.I was particularly touched by the attachment we develop for the four main characters, Fourmod, Chian, Bua, and Baabin, whose complex journeys we follow, between good and bad decisions. Their relationships, both intense and ambiguous, are one of the series' strengths. I savored each episode and would have loved more, but I respect the creators' choices. In the spirit of "Hormones", an anthology with different characters each season would be an interesting idea.
"Gelboy" takes us through a rollercoaster of emotions and powerfully reminds us of that period of adolescence when we believe we are invincible, when time seems suspended, and when incoherence reigns supreme.
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