Episode 2 was so good! Things are really heating up and now I’m more intrigued. Who is the guy in khaki that keeps showing up? How is Master Prem connected to Khem’s past life? What is this grudge Ramphueng has over Khem?
My money’s still on some thwarted love she had for Chayos (I think that’s who the khaki guy is…?) and Khem got in the way of it when Chayos fell for Khem. And Prem became a rival, too, in this past life. I’m just guessing. Seems predictable that way, but still hella interesting and entertaining.
So far nothing is making me roll my eyes, so I’m happy. Keng and Namping finally on screen makes me happy- I love that they don’t have a silly script.
I also love that FirstOne and Tle are in this and set up as the second couple. I thought that Chan liked Jet in episode 1, but it looks like he was focused on Khem in episode 2, maybe? 😊 All speculation because I haven’t read the book. I should though, because I dislike surprises. I guess that’s why I don’t normally do horror. But I couldn’t pass up Keng and Namping’s first drama together. Nope! 🙂↔️
This really is following the novel closely. I am definitely looking forward to the next episode. Hua Yong is by far my most favorite character. And Huang Xing plays him perfectly. King manipulator to the max and I’m loving it. So entertaining and I’m not ashamed to admit it.
The enigma personality is crazy. Poor Shaoyou has NO clue. That S-class alpha pride is his “downfall”. Hua Yong loves him and tolerates it to an extent, calling his anger cute while punishing him when he steps out of line. But at the same time, he’s being all domestic as an omega and further ingraining himself into Shuayou’s heart. I feel for Shaoyou, but I know his happiness will come…eventually. So very much love these two. My favorite couple in the series. 😊
And I love the bestie dynamic between Hua Yong and Wen Lang. The goading by Wen Lang leading to Hua Yong to release those pheromones and the whole apple scene later…loved it.
You know who I feel for? Pin Ming. That poor guy is going through! I know it’s because he truly cares about his boss, but damn! He needs a raise and a vacation after all this is over.
Another Japanese BL series where the actors are completely mismatched, but are chosen to ensure the heteronormative…
It sounds like you haven’t even watched this yet… Did you just watch the trailer and form your opinion on that? Or have you watched a few episodes?
I disagree on the MLs being mismatched as I think they work well together.
This “heteronormative narrative” you’re ascribing to JBLs (you’ve only listed JBL titles and no others) seems an interesting choice. I’d say that reality is that heteronormativity is unfortunately the “norm” for most societies, despite same-sex laws changing toward equity, antiquated conservative believe systems persist. Even in Thailand- the BL giant where gender nonconformity and same sex relationships are portrayed as accepted in entertainment and advertising (it’s a soft power for a reason), but coming out and all the issues and struggles surrounding it is still a thing that happens there. Why do people need to “come out”? The fact that people even use this term so regularly in societies means heteronormativity is still the dominant narrative. We can’t ignore it just to make ourselves feel more righteous or feel like society is more open, while those who acknowledge it on some level are just perpetuating the narrative. I think different cultures are handling their approach to it in a way that makes it palpable to those within their culture. I like to think that in doing so, they are paving the way for legalization and social normativity of LGBTQAI+, just like Thailand and other countries have done. Knowing something about Japan’s culture, their approach makes perfect sense.
But that’s the beauty of opinions in a public forum. Perhaps My Personal Weatherman is more your style? Or not. Maybe JBLs aren’t your thing because of their progression in the narrative you’re looking for.
Now if you’re talking about quality- I find it interesting that you find this series difficult to watch yet you rated Eye Contact and Season of Love so highly. To me and many others, those don’t even touch higher than a 6 MAX (if I’m being generous). Seriously- Eye Contact alone is ridiculous problematic on so many levels that have been exhaustively discussed in that drama’s comment section. Season of Love is just low budget soft porn in my opinion. How do these shows portray homosexuality in an authentic way, other than it showing gay guys having lots of sex. Playboyy does this too and it was its own category of wtf (seriously- I can’t unsee what I watched). How do these soft porn series fight against the heterosexuality narrative effectively in any culture? Love on the Big City is a more authentic homosexual narrative than either of these could ever hope to be. My thought is that 10s belong to stories like Not Me (if you haven’t seen it, it really, truly is a powerful- and foretelling) Thai drama. It addresses the heteronormative narrative you mentioned and the very real struggles toward a more equitable narrative that you seem to be looking for (if I understand your post correctly) from Thailand’s lens before their laws changed.
In any event, there are a significant number of us who do enjoy this series. It’s very JBL. Japan is good for subtly addressing issues common in the lives of the LGBTQAI+ community and making it palpable for their socially conservative and heterosexually dominant culture. We don’t have to like it; it’s their culture they’re communicating to. I hope we someday get to see Japan, Korea, and even China at Thailand’s level of homosexuality as a powerful narrative.
This got deep (and hella long- sorry), but I wanted to take the time to honestly address your points. 😊
You do seem new to the BL series world- at least from your watched list. I could be wrong. There are so very many dramas I can suggest to you from different countries (so far I’ve stuck to Japan, Korea, Thailand, China, and Taiwan), should you be interested, as I have seen well over 400 since joining MDL. Some are really thought-provoking and amazing- some you should run from to save yourself the time. You know, because time is valuable. I did see you watched The Egoist. That movie was so good and hella sad. It also deserves full stars. It’s a drama I loved but will probably never watch again.
This drama taught me a lot about age differences in relationships. I used to find it hard to understand how people…
Large age gaps can be challenging at times. My husband and I are 13 years apart (he’s older). I have found that age matters in some ways. But not in a significant, relationship-ending way. Personalities can change as the younger one matures/grows. Values can change. My father is also 13 years older than his wife. They’ve been together for a decade and will likely divorce soon. Communication is key. Different generations have different life experiences and sometimes different values. My husband and I have different views on a lot of things now as I’ve grown from the young 22 year old me to an older, wiser 40+ year old me, but we work through them together and have done so for 20 years and counting. In addition to my own, I’ve observed a long-lasting age gap relationship. My grandparents had the same age gap (13 years- it’s a thing for our family I guess) and they were together for 40+ years before he passed. She followed 6 years later. The biggest thing for large age gaps, I think, is the eventual passing of the older one (if death comes by age and not other circumstances). Even if my husband and I live healthy, disease-free lives, when he’s 70 (🤞🏽) I will be in my 50s.
But that’s why I like this reincarnation story-because he gets to relive reuniting with this destined soul tied to him by the red thread while in a younger body. It’s the ultimate love story that never ends.
Loving it still and so thrilled to see where it goes! Guan Qi Ring has it tough cause he was dumped and likes…
I agree. Martin and Kenji are SERVING with the visuals. I’m all eyes on them. I really enjoy all our characters, even Qi Ring. Guy is in love and only knows how to use violence to express it. I’m sure he will feel all guilty soon and let go for his love’s sake. But not before he sees the hurt he does to him first. We shall see. Our second couple? OMG I love them both too. Why are they so cute? I’m sure they will get there. Maybe not until 11 or 12 though. I really like reincarnation stories because I’m a believer in it. I love the red thread of fate weaving throughout the story. I do wonder how the young master will show itself more though.
Martin Wong and Kenji Fan are gorgeous and their chemistry is clear. The body swap and age gap pale in comparison to this. I don’t care because seeing them close on screen is what I look forward to. The story has also been quite engaging for me. I’m a believer in reincarnation and I love the idea of a second chance, especially for such a kind and loving soul. The grandson? Though he was an ass, he was a troubled soul so I feel for him. I think his ghost will do something vengeful but then come to some sort of understanding and move on. It’ll be good for his character growth. Seems like it’s gonna head that way in a couple episodes. Otherwise why even put him there?
In any event, I’m looking forward to the next 3 Fridays. 😊
Like used dishwater thrown over my head. I was definitely not expecting that. Why even bother giving an NC scene…
You’re right. The director is to blame. The way this scene made it in really seems just like you said.
And the kisses! The way they slowly and very, very carefully tiptoe towards each other for a barely touching kiss, and that’s supposed to be passion? 😂 How do we get to moving in? Honestly. After the “sex” they had, I’d break up. It doesn’t bode well for their future if the sex is so “used dishwater” no one can tell if they even had it.
I’m almost morbidly fascinated with how this was directed and what other masterpiece scenes this conservative ultra straight virgin male director will bestow upon us…
Like used dishwater thrown over my head. I was definitely not expecting that. Why even bother giving an NC scene…
He just kinda slowly collapses (without the “passion” collapsing after a round of heavy passionate sex would induce) and lays on him like a dead fish. Then they’re just…I don’t know…laying there, I guess…? So badly done. Look at the placement of his arms when he’s laying on him. I was like, what?! That’s it? When I’m telling you I rolled my eyes…the passion with which I rolled them is greater than the passion in that scene! 😂
My main beef is the depth thing. I mean, what the heck is even going on with the two main characters? How can…
No idea exactly. Looks like Knight is inebriated or something and goes into Mild’s room while he’s asleep. Mild is shirtless under the covers. It cuts after Knight lays on top of him (over a blanket). Next is that annoying brother of Mild’s accusing him of raping Mild. An older couple I assume is Mild’s parents are there, as well. It’s all in the preview. I doubt it’s actually rape, though. Either he fell asleep and was discovered in a compromising position or they did the deed with consent. I’m leaning toward the former.
No idea. There’s always someone who judges for watching because of one specific actor. That face card SERVES though, so I’m sat. Locked in. Staring at that face card with no shame. 😂 Unabashedly. 😉
1 
My money’s still on some thwarted love she had for Chayos (I think that’s who the khaki guy is…?) and Khem got in the way of it when Chayos fell for Khem. And Prem became a rival, too, in this past life. I’m just guessing. Seems predictable that way, but still hella interesting and entertaining.
So far nothing is making me roll my eyes, so I’m happy. Keng and Namping finally on screen makes me happy- I love that they don’t have a silly script.
I also love that FirstOne and Tle are in this and set up as the second couple. I thought that Chan liked Jet in episode 1, but it looks like he was focused on Khem in episode 2, maybe? 😊 All speculation because I haven’t read the book. I should though, because I dislike surprises. I guess that’s why I don’t normally do horror. But I couldn’t pass up Keng and Namping’s first drama together. Nope! 🙂↔️
Another week of waiting begins.
The enigma personality is crazy. Poor Shaoyou has NO clue. That S-class alpha pride is his “downfall”. Hua Yong loves him and tolerates it to an extent, calling his anger cute while punishing him when he steps out of line. But at the same time, he’s being all domestic as an omega and further ingraining himself into Shuayou’s heart. I feel for Shaoyou, but I know his happiness will come…eventually. So very much love these two. My favorite couple in the series. 😊
And I love the bestie dynamic between Hua Yong and Wen Lang. The goading by Wen Lang leading to Hua Yong to release those pheromones and the whole apple scene later…loved it.
You know who I feel for? Pin Ming. That poor guy is going through! I know it’s because he truly cares about his boss, but damn! He needs a raise and a vacation after all this is over.
I disagree on the MLs being mismatched as I think they work well together.
This “heteronormative narrative” you’re ascribing to JBLs (you’ve only listed JBL titles and no others) seems an interesting choice. I’d say that reality is that heteronormativity is unfortunately the “norm” for most societies, despite same-sex laws changing toward equity, antiquated conservative believe systems persist. Even in Thailand- the BL giant where gender nonconformity and same sex relationships are portrayed as accepted in entertainment and advertising (it’s a soft power for a reason), but coming out and all the issues and struggles surrounding it is still a thing that happens there. Why do people need to “come out”? The fact that people even use this term so regularly in societies means heteronormativity is still the dominant narrative. We can’t ignore it just to make ourselves feel more righteous or feel like society is more open, while those who acknowledge it on some level are just perpetuating the narrative. I think different cultures are handling their approach to it in a way that makes it palpable to those within their culture. I like to think that in doing so, they are paving the way for legalization and social normativity of LGBTQAI+, just like Thailand and other countries have done. Knowing something about Japan’s culture, their approach makes perfect sense.
But that’s the beauty of opinions in a public forum. Perhaps My Personal Weatherman is more your style? Or not. Maybe JBLs aren’t your thing because of their progression in the narrative you’re looking for.
Now if you’re talking about quality- I find it interesting that you find this series difficult to watch yet you rated Eye Contact and Season of Love so highly. To me and many others, those don’t even touch higher than a 6 MAX (if I’m being generous). Seriously- Eye Contact alone is ridiculous problematic on so many levels that have been exhaustively discussed in that drama’s comment section. Season of Love is just low budget soft porn in my opinion. How do these shows portray homosexuality in an authentic way, other than it showing gay guys having lots of sex. Playboyy does this too and it was its own category of wtf (seriously- I can’t unsee what I watched). How do these soft porn series fight against the heterosexuality narrative effectively in any culture? Love on the Big City is a more authentic homosexual narrative than either of these could ever hope to be. My thought is that 10s belong to stories like Not Me (if you haven’t seen it, it really, truly is a powerful- and foretelling) Thai drama. It addresses the heteronormative narrative you mentioned and the very real struggles toward a more equitable narrative that you seem to be looking for (if I understand your post correctly) from Thailand’s lens before their laws changed.
In any event, there are a significant number of us who do enjoy this series. It’s very JBL. Japan is good for subtly addressing issues common in the lives of the LGBTQAI+ community and making it palpable for their socially conservative and heterosexually dominant culture. We don’t have to like it; it’s their culture they’re communicating to. I hope we someday get to see Japan, Korea, and even China at Thailand’s level of homosexuality as a powerful narrative.
This got deep (and hella long- sorry), but I wanted to take the time to honestly address your points. 😊
You do seem new to the BL series world- at least from your watched list. I could be wrong. There are so very many dramas I can suggest to you from different countries (so far I’ve stuck to Japan, Korea, Thailand, China, and Taiwan), should you be interested, as I have seen well over 400 since joining MDL. Some are really thought-provoking and amazing- some you should run from to save yourself the time. You know, because time is valuable. I did see you watched The Egoist. That movie was so good and hella sad. It also deserves full stars. It’s a drama I loved but will probably never watch again.
But that’s why I like this reincarnation story-because he gets to relive reuniting with this destined soul tied to him by the red thread while in a younger body. It’s the ultimate love story that never ends.
In any event, I’m looking forward to the next 3 Fridays. 😊
And the kisses! The way they slowly and very, very carefully tiptoe towards each other for a barely touching kiss, and that’s supposed to be passion? 😂 How do we get to moving in? Honestly. After the “sex” they had, I’d break up. It doesn’t bode well for their future if the sex is so “used dishwater” no one can tell if they even had it.
I’m almost morbidly fascinated with how this was directed and what other masterpiece scenes this conservative ultra straight virgin male director will bestow upon us…