The wait for the next episode is going to be tough!! I have had my qualms about some of the pacing and the soundtrack, but let me tell you that the piano version of the OST during the love making scene was so beautiful that I nearly shed tears. Of course, concerns over consent are being brought up again, which is fair, and the answer to it remains ambiguous. Edit: after reading more about people’s opinion on this (and statements from reaction videos), I will say that it’s true that the scene is disturbing due to Porsche not being able to fully consent and that we should indeed question whether or not the series is romanticising NC. As others have mentioned, I think Porsche’s perspective is crucial in determining whether or not the act was a violation of his body. Sure, he fended off against Vegas yet flirted and encouraged Kinn, but it’s good to keep in mind that this might be conveying toxic ideas of romance.
What is certain, however, is that the feelings of the characters are mutual and it is what drives the two to pursue their affections(in this fictive setting). Porsche, with some degree of consciousness, is reacting to his own growing attraction (still, this is not an excuse of course, as we should be wary of rationalising potential SA, esp if this is what Porsche feels next ep). Kinn, on the other hand, is still hesitant and afraid to act, due to his scars from the past. Yet, whilst sharing this moment with Porsche, he is pulled not once, not twice, but a multitude of times toward him. It is only when Porsche recalls their previous kiss from the pier, hinting that they both feel the same way (as forgetting it or not mentioning it is equivalent to a lack of significance for an individual, and is what Kinn had assumed for Porsche), that he finally gives in. Not simply to his own lust but to both of their desires.
Just like with the first kiss, the sex scene feels more like a moment of vulnerability for both, but especially for Kinn, a moment that allows Kinn to cast his deepest fear aside and open up to another person, on a physical and almost spiritual level. I believe that is what the choice of music tries to convey as well. It’s a moment of tenderness and warmth, not just an impulse to have sex, or Kinn would have refrained himself. It is a way for Kinn to finally « admit » to both himself and Porsche, that he likes him. Though, don’t get me wrong, the scene is artistically sensual and in a way that reminded me of mature Gay movies/short films from the 2000s. The body is a canvas of desire and it is being painted intimately, desperately (though morally questionable).
The two have feelings but it has yet to transform into a love that grants clarity and courage, a love that enables the kind of complete trust in each other that they would be able to go up against the world together. We’re not there yet, and given the spoilers from the novel that I’ve seen, that lack of absolute confidence will lead to a retreat from both. Kinn might act coldly and push Porsche away, Porsche might be shaken, unable to fully acknowledge the intimacy they shared. And hopefully, this stage of confusion, of panic, of escape will only reinforce what they had previously confirmed: their ardour for each other can no longer be restrained, contained, dismissed.
Phew, all of that to say that this episode was the death of me, and I’m not sure i have the patience required to breathe until the next ep, but we’ll see once we get there. I’d like to also mention Kim and Porschay, whom I thought were introduced/re-introduced simply but efficiently. The episode nicely set up a link between the two: Porschay being a fan of Kim and even choosing his faculty because of him (making their meeting seem less forced and coincidental), then Kim realising he is Porsche’s brother and taking up PC’s offer to tutor him. Again, I appreciate the detail about how Kim initially refused PC, and only accepted when he had use for him. It’s more realistic that way, and doesn’t fall into the cliche of love-at-first-sight.
Speaking of which, another detail is that Kim does not notice Porschay in the crowd until PC speaks up, which again, is more realistic. Oftentimes, two characters meet eyes the moment they enter the scene, sharing an attraction already (which is fine but just overdone esp in BL),. The execution here is more natural. It also means that the gradual softening of Kim will be more believable and satisfying, especially given how cautious and reticent he seems to be right now.
I mentioned it before but I really love the hidden identity trope, and this is EXACTLY what I wanted. I thought that, at most, Kim would hide his identity but would become friends(and later lovers) with PC, with no ulterior motives. Even, perhaps, staying in the dark about PC’s connection to Porsche entirely. But Kim getting closer to Porschay deliberately like this to get more info on Porsche is certainly very intriguing. Can’t wait to see how it plays out. Someone else here had also mentioned that KimPorschay reminded them of 2gether and the ressemblance is uncanny, it’s not even funny💀. I personally was not very fond of 2gether, but it’s funny to see the commonalities between them since I’m becoming very invested in KimPorschay.
Lastly, just wanted to mention PeteVegas. In the ending scene of this episode, we see Vegas smirking whilst touching the injury he got to his jaw from Porsche. I like how it foreshadows his sadism, and how it might have even triggered his desire to pursue a sadomasochistic relationship (which we know Pete will be a victim of). My question is, given that Pete does not consent to the earlier sex that he is brought into by Vegas, how does he not report it to Kinn the first time it occurs (since it becomes an ongoing trauma for him from what I heard)? I’m going to assume that he is too ashamed or perhaps even threatened to keep it a secret by Vegas but I feel like it is more intricate than that. So yeah, if someone wants to, they can spoil me about that.
Well, that was fun to write. Oh yeah, forgot to mention Tankhun slamming Vegas with the tray. Could there be anyone more iconic? Also, forgive me, but they lowkey had some chemistry in that scene, it wouldn’t hurt to imagine… In any case, once again, those who read till the end, you are the best <3 Feel free to comment anything you agreed or disagreed with or even just smth you wanted to add to my review :) Peace out
i can see that, and most likely not as I don't usually read the novel but if I feel particularly inspired after the series i wouldn't mind giving it a go! I think i'd just be troubled by how different kinn is in the novel compared to the series (which the first trailer seemed to emulate more)
that's neat, i havent read the book so im v curious to see what he's like! esp with everything ive heard, I'll prob deeply sympathize with him or straight up kind of dislike him I feel
Me 2! I gotta wait till 19:00 actually and even than...I decided to watch it with my friend so I gotta wait for…
Oh nice! European fan struggles indeed, goodluck with the wait then!! On the positive side, we don't need to wait another week this time (gosh that was testing me)
I live in Europe so I'll have to wait until 6PM to watch the new ep tmrw, im so impatient, it's killing mee (there better not be any delays this time), in any case, who is everyone's favourite character? I need some distraction
im genuinely kind of curious about how much they will show given the +21/+18 rating. As a comparison, is Cutie…
true, the way I feel like we're either going to come back empty handed tmrw or get a full course menu Either way, what interests me most is actually how Porsche will feel about this. Unlike Kinn, he doesn't seem to have had any prior experience with men so I look forward to seeing a potential reflection on his identity or even a crisis
It's 1am rn and I wanna see someone naked in ep 4. Already imagining. Wild.
im genuinely kind of curious about how much they will show given the +21/+18 rating. As a comparison, is Cutie Pie also 18+? Cause last ep or two they showed wayyy more than I anticipated
The episode was able to strike a nice balance between comedy and seriousness. I appreciated that it tried to ground the viewers back to the mafia world, by showcasing that even if there is a light-hearted tone, cruelty and violence is present and inevitable. The fact that they showed Pete, who, so far, has only come across as sweet and pure, beating up an older man, unhinged, is proof of that. It is a reality of the illegal scene, and the episode was reminding us of that. In a way, we were being told: “don’t let your guard down”. It’s further conveyed in the scene when Porsche becomes visibly uncomfortable by the sight of the man being hit, but Kinn does not make the violence cease. Rather, he merely gets Pete to escort him out. It’s a way of conveying the ruthlessness that Kinn is accustomed to, which he is obliged (pretty much) to execute due to the nature of his job, his background. He needs to get things done after all, even at the cost of his morality. Despite that, he is capable of being thoughtful, as seen through his gesture toward Porsche, and when he thinks back on Porsche’s expression after he shot the old man.
The episode also asserted once more how much Kinn and Porsche are attracted to each other. Kinn is clearly puzzled by how much Porsche affects him, as scene with the bath scene. He is developing emotions, but is hesitant given that he finds it so difficult to trust others. Seemingly due to a past scar (I have not read the novel but that is what the series is hinting at). Yet, in that scene, when Porsche pulls him by the hand, and opens up to him, he seemed to have gained the courage to kiss him regardless. They share a chemistry that he can no longer deny, and so he makes the first move, even though he is not nearly as drunk as Porsche. I love how soft that moment is, it feels like Kinn is willing to act on his feelings despite him being guarded at first (like when he tried to throw Porsche off of him the first time he got drunk). I am very curious to see how the scene will follow, and how Kinn will choose to act. In fact, I am REALLY intrigued by how Porsche might act. We do know that they are both drawn toward the other, but I’ve felt that the series has focused more on how Kinn specifically is charmed by Porsche, rather than the opposite. As we all know, Porsche is incredibly goofy and has pretty much only been serious in regards to family-related matters or moments of real violence. We have not seen him be serious about anything romance-related, so I wonder how he will feel about the kiss they shared, given that he’s only been attracted to Kinn subconsciously, and not on a conscious level (I don’t think). The kiss concretises that attraction, and he’ll be forced to react somehow to it, whether he plays it off as a joke, flustered, or if he starts to reflect on his emotions. Since it’s only the third episode (which is really early for a kiss, especially since Kinn and Porsche haven’t had that many moments together), I highly doubt it would be as simple as them getting together the next episode. We might even be in for some angst. Either way, I am looking forward to the next ep. Also, whilst I do want to see what VegasPete will be like, I am actually more curious about Kim and Porchay. I just love the idea of Porchay, this non-affiliated-with-the-mafia character coming to know of Kim (who will presumably hide his identity, I’m guessing from the little I heard) and how that will play out. Especially as Kim might not have the purest intentions toward Porsche (perhaps?). So the feeling of chaos and betrayal that will arise will be thrilling (I sound like a maniac now) when Porschay finds out about Kim and Porsche. Even if Kim has no malicious intent, I am fond of the “hidden identity” trope so I’m excited. I feel like their dynamic will be really enticing, as Porschay might act as the sort of “innocent” character that heals Kim’s heart. I am open to spoilers so do tell me if I am wrong. In any case, until next week :). If you’ve taken the time to read, you’re the best <3
Don't pay heed to the ratings .. Don't know what is wrong with them.
Oh yh i see, thx for the answer! Hoping kinnporsche could at the very least be an 8.0 by the end, but as others habe mentioned, the rating isnt worth much if the site itself is fishy about it. Xx
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What is certain, however, is that the feelings of the characters are mutual and it is what drives the two to pursue their affections(in this fictive setting). Porsche, with some degree of consciousness, is reacting to his own growing attraction (still, this is not an excuse of course, as we should be wary of rationalising potential SA, esp if this is what Porsche feels next ep). Kinn, on the other hand, is still hesitant and afraid to act, due to his scars from the past. Yet, whilst sharing this moment with Porsche, he is pulled not once, not twice, but a multitude of times toward him. It is only when Porsche recalls their previous kiss from the pier, hinting that they both feel the same way (as forgetting it or not mentioning it is equivalent to a lack of significance for an individual, and is what Kinn had assumed for Porsche), that he finally gives in. Not simply to his own lust but to both of their desires.
Just like with the first kiss, the sex scene feels more like a moment of vulnerability for both, but especially for Kinn, a moment that allows Kinn to cast his deepest fear aside and open up to another person, on a physical and almost spiritual level. I believe that is what the choice of music tries to convey as well. It’s a moment of tenderness and warmth, not just an impulse to have sex, or Kinn would have refrained himself. It is a way for Kinn to finally « admit » to both himself and Porsche, that he likes him. Though, don’t get me wrong, the scene is artistically sensual and in a way that reminded me of mature Gay movies/short films from the 2000s. The body is a canvas of desire and it is being painted intimately, desperately (though morally questionable).
The two have feelings but it has yet to transform into a love that grants clarity and courage, a love that enables the kind of complete trust in each other that they would be able to go up against the world together. We’re not there yet, and given the spoilers from the novel that I’ve seen, that lack of absolute confidence will lead to a retreat from both. Kinn might act coldly and push Porsche away, Porsche might be shaken, unable to fully acknowledge the intimacy they shared. And hopefully, this stage of confusion, of panic, of escape will only reinforce what they had previously confirmed: their ardour for each other can no longer be restrained, contained, dismissed.
Phew, all of that to say that this episode was the death of me, and I’m not sure i have the patience required to breathe until the next ep, but we’ll see once we get there. I’d like to also mention Kim and Porschay, whom I thought were introduced/re-introduced simply but efficiently. The episode nicely set up a link between the two: Porschay being a fan of Kim and even choosing his faculty because of him (making their meeting seem less forced and coincidental), then Kim realising he is Porsche’s brother and taking up PC’s offer to tutor him. Again, I appreciate the detail about how Kim initially refused PC, and only accepted when he had use for him. It’s more realistic that way, and doesn’t fall into the cliche of love-at-first-sight.
Speaking of which, another detail is that Kim does not notice Porschay in the crowd until PC speaks up, which again, is more realistic. Oftentimes, two characters meet eyes the moment they enter the scene, sharing an attraction already (which is fine but just overdone esp in BL),. The execution here is more natural. It also means that the gradual softening of Kim will be more believable and satisfying, especially given how cautious and reticent he seems to be right now.
I mentioned it before but I really love the hidden identity trope, and this is EXACTLY what I wanted. I thought that, at most, Kim would hide his identity but would become friends(and later lovers) with PC, with no ulterior motives. Even, perhaps, staying in the dark about PC’s connection to Porsche entirely. But Kim getting closer to Porschay deliberately like this to get more info on Porsche is certainly very intriguing. Can’t wait to see how it plays out.
Someone else here had also mentioned that KimPorschay reminded them of 2gether and the ressemblance is uncanny, it’s not even funny💀. I personally was not very fond of 2gether, but it’s funny to see the commonalities between them since I’m becoming very invested in KimPorschay.
Lastly, just wanted to mention PeteVegas. In the ending scene of this episode, we see Vegas smirking whilst touching the injury he got to his jaw from Porsche. I like how it foreshadows his sadism, and how it might have even triggered his desire to pursue a sadomasochistic relationship (which we know Pete will be a victim of). My question is, given that Pete does not consent to the earlier sex that he is brought into by Vegas, how does he not report it to Kinn the first time it occurs (since it becomes an ongoing trauma for him from what I heard)? I’m going to assume that he is too ashamed or perhaps even threatened to keep it a secret by Vegas but I feel like it is more intricate than that. So yeah, if someone wants to, they can spoil me about that.
Well, that was fun to write. Oh yeah, forgot to mention Tankhun slamming Vegas with the tray. Could there be anyone more iconic? Also, forgive me, but they lowkey had some chemistry in that scene, it wouldn’t hurt to imagine…
In any case, once again, those who read till the end, you are the best <3
Feel free to comment anything you agreed or disagreed with or even just smth you wanted to add to my review :)
Peace out
European fan struggles indeed, goodluck with the wait then!! On the positive side, we don't need to wait another week this time (gosh that was testing me)
Either way, what interests me most is actually how Porsche will feel about this. Unlike Kinn, he doesn't seem to have had any prior experience with men so I look forward to seeing a potential reflection on his identity or even a crisis
It’s further conveyed in the scene when Porsche becomes visibly uncomfortable by the sight of the man being hit, but Kinn does not make the violence cease. Rather, he merely gets Pete to escort him out. It’s a way of conveying the ruthlessness that Kinn is accustomed to, which he is obliged (pretty much) to execute due to the nature of his job, his background. He needs to get things done after all, even at the cost of his morality. Despite that, he is capable of being thoughtful, as seen through his gesture toward Porsche, and when he thinks back on Porsche’s expression after he shot the old man.
The episode also asserted once more how much Kinn and Porsche are attracted to each other. Kinn is clearly puzzled by how much Porsche affects him, as scene with the bath scene. He is developing emotions, but is hesitant given that he finds it so difficult to trust others. Seemingly due to a past scar (I have not read the novel but that is what the series is hinting at). Yet, in that scene, when Porsche pulls him by the hand, and opens up to him, he seemed to have gained the courage to kiss him regardless. They share a chemistry that he can no longer deny, and so he makes the first move, even though he is not nearly as drunk as Porsche. I love how soft that moment is, it feels like Kinn is willing to act on his feelings despite him being guarded at first (like when he tried to throw Porsche off of him the first time he got drunk). I am very curious to see how the scene will follow, and how Kinn will choose to act.
In fact, I am REALLY intrigued by how Porsche might act. We do know that they are both drawn toward the other, but I’ve felt that the series has focused more on how Kinn specifically is charmed by Porsche, rather than the opposite. As we all know, Porsche is incredibly goofy and has pretty much only been serious in regards to family-related matters or moments of real violence. We have not seen him be serious about anything romance-related, so I wonder how he will feel about the kiss they shared, given that he’s only been attracted to Kinn subconsciously, and not on a conscious level (I don’t think). The kiss concretises that attraction, and he’ll be forced to react somehow to it, whether he plays it off as a joke, flustered, or if he starts to reflect on his emotions.
Since it’s only the third episode (which is really early for a kiss, especially since Kinn and Porsche haven’t had that many moments together), I highly doubt it would be as simple as them getting together the next episode. We might even be in for some angst. Either way, I am looking forward to the next ep.
Also, whilst I do want to see what VegasPete will be like, I am actually more curious about Kim and Porchay. I just love the idea of Porchay, this non-affiliated-with-the-mafia character coming to know of Kim (who will presumably hide his identity, I’m guessing from the little I heard) and how that will play out. Especially as Kim might not have the purest intentions toward Porsche (perhaps?). So the feeling of chaos and betrayal that will arise will be thrilling (I sound like a maniac now) when Porschay finds out about Kim and Porsche. Even if Kim has no malicious intent, I am fond of the “hidden identity” trope so I’m excited. I feel like their dynamic will be really enticing, as Porschay might act as the sort of “innocent” character that heals Kim’s heart. I am open to spoilers so do tell me if I am wrong.
In any case, until next week :). If you’ve taken the time to read, you’re the best <3
Hoping kinnporsche could at the very least be an 8.0 by the end, but as others habe mentioned, the rating isnt worth much if the site itself is fishy about it.
Xx