Japanese LGBT+ Main & Side Characters/Romances

#101

Main romance between two MLs.

Okay. Let's talk rep. Specifically, Kazuma (main ML), since Ren completely and openly embraces his sexuality. Kazuma does not struggle with his feelings for Ren. But accepting his clear Queerness? I definitely think so. 

Maybe it was just the imperfect translation of some important lines, but based on what was said in a key scene in Ep 7 as well as in previous episodes (Ren and others constantly say Kazuma's not Gay and he completely goes along with it and/or responds that he just likes Ren or something else incredibly vague) there's really a valid reading that they used the "I just like you" rather than have Kazuma be a legitimately Queer character. And I am NOT a fan of that being a valid reading! The "I just like you" is a years old, horribly tired, and annoying trope from Thai BLs that should be dead already, not reappearing in a J-BL in 2023. I mean, it could be they were trying to say he's Pan without actually saying it, but if so, they failed (in my opinion). Finishing this drama, I was just left with a bad taste in my mouth as far as how they were/were not having him label his sexuality. Like, clearly, at the very least, he likes men. Therefore, not Straight. Therefore, some flavor of the rainbow. So what gives?

We need to not only stop treating Bi/Pan people like they don't exist but also like the terms don't exist. You can use the word! 

My thoughts on the drama itself: It had all the ingredients for an excellent drama: Solid acting, gorgeous cinematography, a compelling backstory, and an interesting direction to take the plot. However, I felt something was lacking. I can't put my finger on it exactly. Finishing it, though, I just feel . . . Incomplete, somehow.

Can be found on GagaOOLala or Rakuten Viki

#102

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: It starts off really good but the last four episodes really drag. I still enjoyed watching it, but I was frustrated to see Minato fail to make progress each week.

The acting and tension were great, though. No complaints there!

Can be found on GagaOOLala or free websites

#103

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: There was some obvious toxicity in the beginning, but that quickly smoothed out, and it became about a frustrating but sweet couple facing challenges and learning together.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#104

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: As someone who adored the film adaptation and has gone back to it again and again and again, this was pretty darn faithful, showing how one meaningful connection can expand someone's world and how all you really need is one person to see and understand you, just one.

I liked how this Taichi showed more of an interest in Kohei right off the bat, which led to some lovely, thoughtful moments. And Kohei was more forward with his feelings in his own way. However, over time, I did begin to feel like the drama was dragging its feet. By making Taichi more attached to Koehi but also more dense, there was this constant circling around his feelings. And while I, of course, was happy to see them explore hearing loss and the different perspectives and struggles of people who are deaf/hard of hearing, I think it took away valuable time that could have been spent with Taichi and Kohei. While they focused on Taichi's passion for making a better world/helping others, Kohei ended up taking a backseat. Some later episodes had barely any scenes of Taichi and Kohei together, let alone from Kohei's point of view.

The ending also didn't quite sit right. While it did its job and was sweet, it felt rushed and lacking.

I think this drama wanted to be bigger than it was and lost itself a bit.

I wasn't disappointed, per se; I just think they could have done more.

Can be found on iQiyi or GagagOOLala

#105

Main romance between two MLs. 

Mamoru talks several times about his realization that he likes guys. No "It's just you!" here! :)

My thoughts on the drama itself: It's kooky in a good way. I agree with other MDlers in that this reminded me of A Man Who Defies the World of BL. It's got a similar style.

I had some laughs, and it's fun and all . . . But the build to a romance wasn't done very well, in my opinion.

I would say you will enjoy this more if going into it you view it as a slice-of-life-ish-comedy rather than a romance.

Side Thoughts: I thought it was neat and unique of this drama to reverse the trope of BL writers being women who just have some obsession with writing about Gay guys in a stereotypical/unrealistic fashion and make it be an actual Gay man doing it. 

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#106

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: It wasn't fantastic or anything. But it kind of grew on me *shrugs*

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#110

Main continuing romance between two MLs. Coming out or confusion about sexuality also isn't an issue here.

My thoughts on the drama itself: At the beginning of watching this, I found myself in the minority of people who weren't too upset about the premise, even though it was like a step backward. Minato has always been a jumpy and nervous overthinker, like a rabbit. Would it be nice if he'd made more progress? Of course. But I got it.

But as things progressed, I grew more annoyed at the drama and Minato putting off clearly expressing his feelings. At the end of the day, it was just unfair to Shin. Minato is generally a person who is not good at saying how he feels outright or initiating physical contact himself, which isn't bad in itself at all. But he should have sat down and had a VERY clear conversation with Shin about it; let Shin know he's not holding back to be mean or because of his age.

Also, near the last half of the drama, it felt like the writers just straight-up ran out of ideas and just threw a dart at a bunch of tropes written on the wall and went with it. To be fair, it did make me laugh at how out-of-left-field things went.

Do I recommend it? Ehhhhhhh . . . Maybe.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#111

Main romance between two MLs and, additionally, in my opinion, a likely Pansexual SML, Akihiko. He just gave me "I'm open to anyone" kind of vibes. Just did. Lol. Also, he said, "I dated men before." So, we do know for sure he has/has had an interest in men and women. My gut doesn't say Bi, though.

My thoughts on the drama itself: The first episode was great and set the tone for this drama. It really makes you think of an anime (makes sense as it is an adaptation of one). Especially with things such as the opening description of the main character, the shots/lighting that were used, etc.

The two leads are intriguing in different ways. The main lead has a too-cool-for-school personality, but he is also a pushover and he feels a lot more than he lets on. The second main lead has NO sense of personal space. Lol. And he is also carrying a heavy burden that constantly leaves him feeling sad as well as apathetic.

I haven't seen the anime, so I can't compare this live-action version to it.

While I enjoyed this, I think it would have been more suited for this to be in a movie format rather than a short drama. I think it would flow a lot better that way as far as pacing.

Not as great as it could have been, but I was very glad to have seen it.

Can be found on Crunchyroll or free websites

#112

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: Sometimes, I was charmed. Sometimes, I found their reactions too fake.

Can be found on GagaOOLala or Rakuten Viki 

#113

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: A kooky little drama with a bit of heart that was good for some laughs and smiles. I felt things didn't flow as well after the halfway mark, though, which is why I'm not rating it higher.

In general, I'd still recommend it to pass the time, though.

Can be found on iQiyi or GagaOOLala

#116

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: At times, it was a refreshing watch. Overall, I just felt like this had a lot of wasted potential.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or GagaOOLala 

#117

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: Alright. So, sometimes, it was sweet and charming. But, overall, I just felt this was SO clumsily put together. As if they were just like, "Okay, forming a connection around food. Now what?"

I'd say you can skip this one, my dear MDLers.

 Note: .5 out of my rating is just pity points, though.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#118

Main romance between two MLs, featuring two different couples.

My thoughts on the drama itself: It started out promising, appearing to be a fairly faithful remake with a lot less questionable scenes than the original, and I (for the most part) felt the chemistry between Arashi and Rei and enjoyed the creative decisions they made with their story/dialogue that resulted in many tender moments.

However, I could not buy into Fuma and Kai having even a spark between them, and I feel like the original Thai adaptation had a lot more impact with what were supposed to be the biggest and most dramatic moments. You could blame this on the difference in production quality, subpar acting, editing choices, etc. However, I think it was a combination of all of these factors and, above all, the limited runtime. If they had time to linger and let the viewers and characters actually sit with their feelings, I think it would have come across as more genuine.

Would I recommend it? Yeah, no.

Can be found on GagaOOLala or Rakuten Viki

#119

Main romance between two MLs.

I will warn you that this features an unhealthy relationship with manipulation, lies, etc.

My thoughts on the drama itself: My feelings about this are kind of mixed. It was very well-acted and shot.  But, personally, I was a bit uncomfortable with the constant dirty words. I knew what I was getting into when I watched this, though. I just didn't expect it to be SO upfront about the premise. I almost skipped this entirely, but I'm sort of glad I didn't. But, I DID have to skip a couple scenes that were too much for me.

It did hold my attention though. And I found the characters compelling and different than what I've seen before. But, I'm still not sure how I feel about the climax, or the ending.

I think it's possible to find something here and may be worth watching once. 

Non-Con/Dub-Con Warning!

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or GagaOOLala

#120

Main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: In preparation for watching this, I rewatched most of The Pornographer. This does have some more artistic shots and colors, but I think that just comes down to this having a bit of a different style.  

It wasn't as engaging as The Pornographer. And the motivations of the characters didn't make sense sometimes. Plus, there was a disgusting incident that wasn't fully addressed.

If you liked The Pornographer, maybe give this a shot if you want some background story for Kijima. But, if you came for Kido, you'll just be annoyed. And if you came for the same amount of chemistry, you won't find it here.

It's objectively a 7/10 from me. Beyond that, I'm not sure what would be a proper rating to give.

Non-Con/Dub-Con Warning!

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#121

Main romance between two MLs. Also features a Gay SML, Liu Haoshan (also called Ryu), whose short but meaningful tragic love story is told over Ep 7.

Regarding Mahiro, he has long since come to terms with his sexuality. He makes no attempt to hide his being Gay.

Regarding Ichijou, I think that an argument could be made for him being Bi/Pan. However, as he speaks very little specifically about his sexuality, I find myself referring to him as Queer instead.

My thoughts on the drama itself: Honestly, this low rating hurts my soul because Japan and food usually result in something special and wonderful.

I hate to say what I'm about to say:

My disappointment has ended with this drama's conclusion as I will finally be free of watching it next week.

This one is a skip, my dear MDLers. The beginning episodes will fool you into thinking it will be good, but it will become frustrating to an inconceivable degree until you can only sigh as you watch it (if you have NDD and can't drop for shit, that is).

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#122

Will get to sometime

Main romance between two MLs.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTZ4hu68nJF26XAwCJ5pvE8ZDVaHiF-qT

#123

Will get to sometime

Main romance between two MLs.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTZ4hu68nJF26XAwCJ5pvE8ZDVaHiF-qT

#124

Main romance between two MLs.

Regarding Kaoru, he is quite clearly Bi. He discusses his attraction to/has relationships with both men and women. 

My thoughts on the drama itself: What a creative use of cuts and playing with time! Small indie projects like this just hit differently.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKBUT-3OTTEtr1IUBFP8N5tCc2HboEu7X&si=GgGbYQMo_1m4KyFb

#125

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKBUT-3OTTEtGLCJUSn7aVWNrcmvHn6Gx&si=N9SvVAJWwFcJ_qE2

#126

Main romance between two MLs.

Regarding Hikawa Toru (a main ML), he is quite easily Bi. He has a girlfriend before he catches feelings for and dates Akagi Masumi (ML). He doesn't state he now realizes he's Gay or deny his previous attraction to a woman. He simply accepts that the person he's now fallen for is a man.

I'm pleased.

My thoughts on the drama itself: Boy, were things bafflingly easy for these two! And this drama was bafflingly fun!

I swear, everyone around them looked at them and immediately concluded they liked each other based on very little. It was incredibly amusing for everyone's reaction to be, "I knew immediately!" and "So?" down to the students, teachers, principal, and parents. It was wild!

Can be found on GagagOOLala

#127

Main romance between two MLs. Does feature bullying and dark themes.

Personally, I think what's going on between these two could more so be classified as a blossoming romance. 

My thoughts on the drama itself: A strange yet uplifting watch that could only come from Japan. The only thing is that the ending really confused me. 

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#128

Main romance between two MLs as well as a side romance between two FLs.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#129

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on Thingmedia or free websites

#130

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on UniReel app or free websites

#131

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on Vigloo app or free websites

#132

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on free websites

#133

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on Shortime

#134

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on SWIPEDRAMA app

#136

Main romance between two MLs.

Platform not known

#137

Main romance between two MLs.

Platform not known

#138

Main blossoming romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the movie itself (which also includes my thoughts on the rep): Ahhh! This was such a stress-free watch. These two! Everyone around them easily understands that they are meant to be with each other and intentionally tries to give them time together/avoid interfering with their relationship. And the quiet romance between them and near/unspoken confessions? My heart!

Not to mention, the overwhelming love of food and laid-back atmosphere made me feel like I was enjoying a delicious bowl of chicken soup on a cold day.

That sequel needs to be out already!

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#139

Main continuing romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the movie itself: I swear, this sequel was even warmer than the first movie. What a gentle and supportive love Aki and Haru have for each other.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#140

Hinted and subtle main romance between two MLs.

I'm just going to put my whole review here as I feel it best summarizes my thoughts: Quite gory, but also stylistically beautiful. This was very unique. I can't compare it to the source material, but I very much enjoyed this.

Unlike many who reviewed/commented on this movie, I don't think they tried to make this just a bromance, even though that's what one of the tags says. I didn't get that at all.

I wasn't looking for it, but for me, their relationship was a very quiet and subtle romance. It was implied enough that they knew, I knew, you knew, and we knew that their connection was deeper than merely friends and/or work partners. It didn't need to be overtly stated or shown with a kiss.

It was basically: We all know what's going on here. We don't need to talk about it because we already know.

Can be found on free websites

#141

Main romance between two MLs.

Yuzuru is a raging Bisexual and Seryou is—probably, if not Bi—a raging Pansexual. You know I'm right! Just admit it. It's easier that way. 

My review was too long so I'll just link to it here: https://kisskh.at/13642-seven-days-monday-thursday/reviews

Can be found on free websites

#142

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

My review for the first movie is the review for this second movie as well, since they are telling the same story (I personally consider them to just be one very long movie and highly recommend watching them back to back).

Can be found on free websites

#143

Main romance between two MLs with a focus on family.

My thoughts on the movie itself: Beautiful. It was so real and the setting was gorgeous. They managed to capture loneliness and longing in Shun, and regret (as well as longing) in Nagisa.

These didn't feel exactly like the same people from the prequel, but I could see sparks of their old selves at times.

I was very moved by this movie. My emotions overcame me so it's hard for me to describe it as well as I normally would any other completed drama or movie as I keep thinking back to specific moments. Forgive me for that. Maybe I'm feeling as overwhelmed as Shun was, picking up the sweater and thinking back.

I do have to note how precious the kid, Sato, was. She was so sweet, brave, and curious about the world.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#145

Main romance between two MLs, with a focus on family and coping.

Putting my review here as I really can't figure out how else to word my thoughts: It conveys the reality of Queer life and just life: Masking, shit-talking, supporting, loving, and coping.

Others have put why this movie is so great into much more beautiful words. I'd simply recommend reading their reviews to understand.

Can be found through fansubbers/free websites

#146

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Brief thoughts on the movie: He finally claimed ownership! "He's mine. My Beautiful Man."

Link to Poem Post (in case you're curious): https://kisskh.at/profile/8835865/feeds/k2OJ7IJ

Can be found on GagaOOLala or Rakuten Viki

#147

Main romance between two MLs, with a focus on hearing impairment and deafness.

My thoughts on the movie itself: Really sweet, and heartbreaking at certain points. This movie dares you to challenge the way you think about people with hearing impairments and gives you a different perspective. The relationship between the leads was also very natural.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or free websites

#149

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the movie itself: I can't believe it took me this long to get to it!

It was interesting to see the growth they underwent here compared to the first and second seasons. One thing never changes, though: They continue to grow old and eat good food together. 

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#151

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

A snappy, fun, and heartfelt movie that continued things from where the drama left off very well.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#152

Will get to sometime

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on GagaOOLala (with a VPN) or free websites

#154

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

My thoughts on the series itself: Just a nice little continuation of the side characters' stories/romances.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#155

Continuing main romance between two MLs, featuring two different couples.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#156

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Just a little special continuing the drama's story.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#157

Just a sweet additional episode :)

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#158

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

This was sweet and funny and gave more insight into Adachi and Kurosawa.

Can be found on YouTube or free websites

#159

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Just a nice extra little story.

Can be found on YouTube

#160

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

It was nice to see these extra moments. It was an enjoyable watch.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#161

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

A very short and sweet little epilogue with the MLs spending a morning together.

Can be found on free websites

#162

Main romance between two MLs, with a prominent love triangle.

My thoughts on the special itself: Felt like I finally had to watch this. It was definitely nowhere near as good as the original drama or the following spinoffs/sequels. Honestly, I'd recommend skipping it. It's not really funny or has any real charm to it.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#163

Features a Queer SFL, Kanno Seira, who has unrequited feelings for the main FL, Asagi Soramame. She does make some choices that are not kind but is not herself an unkind person.

We get very obvious clues as to Seira liking Soramame, with Ep 8 seeing her outright admitting to the ML, Umino Oto, that she likes her, as well as later in the final episode confessing to Soramame over the phone. Throughout glimpses into Seira's life/scenes with her, we never actually learn about or see her discuss her sexuality, though. Thus, leaving me to label her Queer rather than a Lesbian, contrary to the MDL tag.

I wouldn't recommend watching this for the rep alone as it wasn't very present in the drama. Now, the drama itself, I did find compelling. See my review below.

My thoughts on the drama itself: A drama full of coincidences and missed chances, and characters somehow inspired to find optimism and joy for life and their dreams. This felt like taking an evening walk in a park with a charming stranger. The sun is almost close to setting, and the world is aglow with warm, orange light, and something about the stranger's smile makes them seem almost familiar.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#165

Features a Lesbian SFL, Imayoshi Reiko, who has unrequited feelings for the main FL, Mamoru. Ep 7 & 8 are where her feelings are clearly laid out (though it is hinted at in previous episodes) as she at first plans to leave the company since just being at Mamaoru's side but not being able to be with her how she wants is painful. However, after she gets outed by someone online and receives support from Mamoru and everyone else at Three Star Books--they declare that they wouldn't work with people who wouldn't support who she is in the first place--she decides to stay. Finally, during the last episode, through a casual line from Mamoru, we find out Imayoshi now has a girlfriend and is quite happy with her.

Though we didn't get to spend much time with the character Imayoshi herself, I found the words and actions of the other characters to speak volumes and, in my opinion, do well advocating for Queer people. All in all, very solid rep.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#166

Features a Lesbian SFL, Sanae Ebato, who has unrequited feelings for and a brief relationship with the main FL, Yasuroka Hanabi. She was morally grey/dark like everyone else, which I found fitting. I think if they had made her the one perfect/morally righteous character, it would have felt like pandering rather than an easy inclusion of a Queer character who suited the drama's theme/matched the other characters' tone. So, personally, I'm glad they went the route they did with her.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#168

Features a side romance between two FLs, Kawase Saki and Yoshino Manami.

My thoughts on the drama itself: It was visually spectacular, well-shot, and (dare I say) had artistic merit. Clearly, they were leaning toward a more experimental angle and trying to intertwine everyone's stories into a deeper message. However, the lack of time they had . . . Showed. The problem was that not enough time was spent developing the relationships between the characters or lingering on the aftereffects of one person's actions/words on another; what should have cut like a knife only left a single scratch.

Regarding the FL, it seemed overall like she didn't have agency. She was very reserved, and rather than making decisions that weren't the best for her, it was more like things just happened to her, and she went along with it. It didn't fit with her "Nevertheless," they were going for, at least in my opinion.

As for the side romance between Manami and Saki, while admittedly heart-tugging, I found it underdeveloped (especially compared to the Korean Nevertheless). If there were only some more background moments between them to establish their connection.

Can be found on Netflix

#169

Main blossoming romance between two FLs. These two basically have what they think are unrequited crushes but very obviously aren't. By the end, it seems like the natural continuation of their relationship would result in dating.

My thoughts on the drama itself: They both constantly misread the situation/what the other girl was thinking. Lol. I loved it! It was cute AND funny!

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-PWvwJngGZAyNAhGi1D1J_1cpqPL5oIU

#171

Main romance between two FLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: The atmosphere they managed to create was simply masterful. This feeling of drifting away from reality and sinking into the dark recesses of your mind. I loved the lighting and use of shadows.

And, in hindsight, knowing her name and her story, everything made sense. For what (on the surface) appeared to be a silly premise, they really took it seriously and set it up so well.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#173

Main romance between two FLs. Coming out or confusion about sexuality also isn't much of an issue here.

Regarding Riko, it was lovely to see her explore not only a romance with Kei but also just come out of her shell more.

Regarding Kei, she was so easily Bi! Love to see it!

Riko to Kei: "Do you like girls?"

Kei: "Girls, boys, I do like both."

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyqngFOTdamAXFE9oFKVflhYaYCM75hRU

#176

Main romance between two FLs.

My thoughts on the drama itself: Cute and entertaining as it was, I ultimately found this drama lacking. A big contributing factor to this is that in comparison to Ayaka's overwhelming determination and commitment to her feelings and to Hiroko, Hiroko felt "flaky" with her constant evasions and half-efforts. I wanted their relationship to be more equal.

Not to mention, the resolution felt rushed.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#177

Main romance between two FLs.

I hate to say this . . . But I found myself more interested in the plot outside of the romance. And, while they were cute together, I felt the story would have been more interesting if it had been about Sayuri coming to terms with her father's marriage and accepting Yui as her new sister.

Side Note: I was really upset that Yui not only chose a completely inappropriate moment to kiss Sayuri but that she also didn't ask for her consent. We do not let that fly here!

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdTbAAy4JGzj26Vn8LKpyHvFxFIt76UNy

#179

Will watch sometime

Main romance between two FLs.

Link to watch it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfyotHBR_xs 

#180

Will watch sometime

Main romance between two FLs.

Link to Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ea7JHc4UX9I
Link to Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7F8hpBMktM 

#181

Need to rewatch to further analyze rep

Main romance between two FLs.

My thoughts on the movie itself: Really genuine, raw, calming, and hopeful.

I loved how they told the other people's stories and not just the main couple's. It truly felt like I was getting a special look into intimate details from their past experiences and what made them who they are today.

This was a beautiful movie.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#182

Main romance between two FLs.

My thoughts on the movie itself: It was mundane but not boring. And I liked the overly casual tone it took with everything, as it felt kind of unique. However, many plot points didn't seem to make sense to include or could have been left out entirely without feeling anything was missing.

Not a movie I regret watching, but not one I would necessarily recommend. I mean, if you're starved for Sapphic content, then sure. 

Can be found on free websites

#183

Features a Lesbian FL and a later romance with her and the other main FL.

My thoughts on the movie itself: This was on-the-run Lesbian-manic-pixie-dream girl meets murder. And . . . I kind of liked it?

Are many lines and themes able to be pinpointed as having been included for/due to the male gaze? Absolutely (now I will argue with some as having been due to the character herself viewing the world/her sexuality/relationship/herself that way). But, as a whole, I found this experience crazy yet raw and real. The movie simply says, "Here." It doesn't tell you how you have to feel about it. I liked that they didn't try to glamorize the two girls' relationship, whether in the past or present, they not only miscommunicate but also manipulate and hurt each other. I will say, if you've never loved someone so much you'd be willing to drop everything in your life the moment they call or text you, or had someone you keep giving second chances to, I'm not sure you'll quite be able to give this a fair chance.

All in all, you might hate me for saying this, but I'd actually . . . Kind of . . . Recommend it.

Can be found on Netflix 

#184

Features a Bisexual FL, Hasegawa Miki. 

So, Miki. While I ended up disliking Miki later on, I did like the way her sexuality was handled. Her family seemed very open so a coming out was never needed, the implication was that it didn't really matter who she liked (in fact the only one who ever asked her a question about it was her brother, Kaoru, but the answer didn't even seem to matter to him). Even during the girl she was interested in's big speech, there was never a shot of her parents being horrified, nor was there a confrontation scene. Life just went on.

My thoughts on the movie itself: It's very slice-of-life for the majority of the film. That was when I liked it the most. I loved how it focused on this one out-there but wonderful family (the way the mother explained sex. Lol) and just told the story of their lives throughout the years with all the minor and major events included, all told through Kaoru's perspective. The last 3rd or so does get rather twisted at a few points when Miki is involved, however, and some parts of the story felt unexplained. I felt like a few problems related to her didn't get addressed like they should have for just how messed up they were. That being said, I did enjoy the movie, for the most part.

I would give it an 8/10 because of the criticisms I mentioned above, but because of the 2/3 of the film that was great, I'm giving it a higher rating.

Can be found on free websites

#185

A reality TV Show that features a Transgender woman among its participants. She was the best part of watching this outrageous and often offensive show. And, get this: She ends up being part of one of only two couples that resulted from this "experiment." 

Seeing her find a guy who loved her as she was was truly heart-warming. She was also just such a genuinely sweet person, so it was easy to root for her. Like, basically everyone else (including the hosts) was an asshole.

Can be found on Netflix

#186

Will add more info soon

A reality tv show documentary featuring Queer couples.

Platform not known

#187

A reality dating show featuring Queer men.

The short version of my thoughts on this show: The Boyfriend was an emotional journey that was not just focused on finding love but on friendship and personal growth. I felt honored and overjoyed to see each man find new courage, realization, motivation, and/or peace in their life.

This Queer reality dating show marks a monumental step forward for Japan, finally following in Korea's footsteps with their successful "His Man."

All in all, I was quite delighted with The Boyfriend, regardless of production choices. I sincerely hope there is a second season.

Link to my review (the character limit couldn't handle me): https://kisskh.at/profile/8835865/reviews/379071

Can be found on Netflix

#188

Features a likely Bisexual ML.

The mixed reviews have me a bit anxious. But I know I will need to see it for myself. Safe to say that I will get to this. At that time, I will update this accordingly.

Can be found on free websites

#189

Features an Intersex FL (per the tags), Hoshino Haru.

You know I will most definitely be watching this. I have to! At that time, I will update this accordingly.

Can be found on free websites

#193

Will add info soon

Reportedly features a Bisexual Supporting Character as well as an Aromantic Supporting Character.

Easy access and the possibility of some rare Aro rep? Of course, I'll watch it! At that time, I will update this accordingly.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or Netflix

#194

Will research and add info

Has an ambiguous LGBTQ+ tag. I guess I'll need to watch this to find out who may or may not be Queer!

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

#195

CW. Will update accordingly.

Main romance between two MLs.

Link to Ep 1-3: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIBpX20YnmIio0UGovUu57yeZdzYTODUf&si=smYjOpquqkxzl6tm

The rest of the episodes can be found on the mov app

#196

Coming September 21st

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#197

Coming September 26th

Main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

#198

Coming October 2nd

Continuing main romance between two MLs.

Can be found on iQiyi

#199

Coming October 10th

Main romance between two MLs.

Platform not known yet

#200

Coming October 18th

Main romance between two MLs.

Platform not known yet