Prince/Woradet is the heart of the show. I loved how, with his charm, wit, and authenticity, he didn’t just adapt to his surroundings — he transformed them. Nut Supanut was absolutely brilliant. With roles like Way, Chris, and now Prince/Woradej, he keeps proving how versatile he is as an actor.
Kosol totally fooled me at first with his tough-guy vibe, but deep down he’s incredibly caring, even if he tries to hide it. But the one who truly stole my heart was Chaiyachet. He lit up every scene with his sweet smile, unconditional love for his brother, and his pure, genuine friendship with Jet.
The production nailed the period sets and costumes, everything looked amazing.
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The real charm of this series is the cast, especially Huang Xing. I don’t think I’ve ever felt such a mix of love and impatience toward a character like I did with Hua Yong. He’s not just good-looking, he’s calculated, seductive, and dangerous. Outwardly delicate, but inwardly lethal. A rare and powerful enigma who went all in to make the proud Alpha Sheng Shao You submit. And Sheng Shao You? He fell hard for his obsessive little psycho and gave in willingly.
I loved how, at times, you couldn’t tell who was manipulating who. In the end, I found myself completely under Hua Yong’s toxic, manipulative, psychotic spell too.
Now, my biggest issues were with episode 9 and how they wrapped up Gao Tu and Shen Wen Lang’s storyline. That whole episode felt far-fetched and unrealistic. If the goal was to keep their identities hidden, the execution really missed the mark. I don’t think I’ve ever rolled my eyes so much during a single episode. Like seriously, Hua Yong and Sheng Shao You are literally living together! How does Sheng Shao You not recognize him? And don’t even get me started on Gao Tu and Shen Wen Lang. As for the ending, I got the feeling some scenes were censored, especially the ones involving Gao Tu and Shen Wen Lang. Tbh, I’d love a season 2 that focuses on their story. They deserve.
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This review may contain spoilers
This series is a rare gem: intense, symbolic, and emotionally raw. From the very first episode, the plot and characters felt deeply authentic and compelling. The cast delivered powerful performances, especially Takahashi Hiroto and Wada Masanari.The story explores the complex journey between hate and love, death and redemption. Odajima is sent to kill Kataoka, but their evolving relationship challenges the meaning of killing, both physically and emotionally. The car scene, repeated with contrasting energy, symbolizes their transformation. What was once a space of violence becomes one of vulnerability and choice. In the end, Odajima chooses chooses not to kill, and Kataoka chooses life breaking the cycle of repression and obedience.
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Ritsu puts work above everything else, and Fumiya ends up feeling like he’s always coming second. It’s not that they don’t love each other, they just don’t know how to communicate. The whole series revolves around the idea of starting over, wiping the slate clean, and trying again from zero.
At one point, Ritsu says it feels strange to pretend the relationship never happened, because then he wouldn’t be able to reflect on it and that hits the nail on the head. Their story is messy, but both Ritsu and Fumiya made mistakes. If they want a future together, they have to face those mistakes and grow from them.
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BOC’s production is flawless, with breathtaking cinematography and meticulous attention to detail. The cast delivers deeply nuanced performances, making the characters feel heartbreakingly real, especially Mile Phakphum, Peter Deriy, and Senam Rakphu. The romance between Krailert and Naran is raw and symbolic, brought to life with powerful chemistry by Son and Euro. Dhevi’s character adds complexity, brilliantly portrayed by Kob Pimolrat.
The soundtrack is more than music, it elevates every scene. It’s a voice for freedom, echoing the characters’ inner worlds and the series’ political undertones. Shine doesn’t shy away from confronting Thailand’s historical wounds, using its story to spark dialogue about justice, identity, and the power of art.
Beyond its emotional impact, Shine dares to revisit a dark chapter in Thai history, subtly critiquing systems of power while promoting dialogue on freedom, justice, and diversity. More than just a love story, Shine is a call to reflect, resist, and reimagine a freer, more compassionate future.
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1. P’Thee and K’Rati — a love that defies the world
“Our story is a testament that heaven could send someone to love another with an unwavering heart.”
This line perfectly sums up P’Thee. He’s quiet, reserved, and easily the most idealistic character in the series. He challenges the rigid norms of aristocracy for love, but he’s also weighed down by tradition and family expectations. His inner conflict is between who he’s supposed to be and who he truly is. But from the moment he met K’Rati, his love never wavered — not once — despite all the social and hierarchical barriers.
K’Rati, coming from a humble background, is constantly aware of the gap between himself and the elite. His past taught him to be cautious, which makes him guarded and sometimes even distrustful. He worries that his history makes him “unworthy” in the eyes of society and P’Thee’s family. That fear leads him to hold back emotionally, and at times, even push Thee away, which honestly frustrated me a bit.
But P’Thee’s affection and emotional stability help K’Rati realize that his worth isn’t defined by where he came from, but by who he is. Their romance is built on tenderness, mutual respect, and admiration.
Great and Inn always deliver heartfelt performances. Their chemistry is undeniable, and I’d love to see them together on screen more often.
2. Mek and Dech — a love that battles itself
They stole every scene they were in. Unlike the quiet, mature love between P’Thee and K’Rati, Mek and Dech’s relationship is impulsive, almost youthful. What started as rivalry turned into friendship, and eventually blossomed into a romance full of discovery and conflict.
Mek is a hardworking, disciplined man who takes pride in his strength and independence. He’s blunt, firm, and never hides his humble roots. He’s loyal and honest, and beneath his tough exterior, he’s surprisingly vulnerable, especially when he feels “less than” because of his background. He protects the people he loves with fierce intensity, and his relationship with Dech reveals a softer, even shy side that makes him one of the most compelling characters in the series. He represents the raw, honest, and resilient spirit of the working class in that era.
Dech, despite being from a noble family, is kind and curious. He shows genuine empathy toward everyone around him. Sometimes he’s a little too trusting, which makes him come off as naïve. But his love for Mek is sincere and free of arrogance. He doesn’t see Mek as beneath him but as someone he can grow with.
I’m really happy to see Aou and Boom getting the recognition they deserve. They’re incredibly talented actors.
3. Nareerat — the character that made my blood boil
She was hands down the most infuriating character in the series. Honestly, she’s tied with Thida (Uea’s mom from Bed Friend) for the top spot on my “most annoying characters of all time” list. While Dech’s father is just an ignorant, spoiled man who can’t handle being challenged, Nareerat is downright cruel. I get that she represents the conservative voice of the Thai elite and the resistance to social change that Thee faces, but that doesn’t make her someone I can sympathize with.
Even when faced with the possibility of never seeing her grandson again, she still chose family honor and reputation above all else. That made me want her to spend the rest of her days locked away in that cold, lonely room.
That said, Tarika Thidathit deserves all the praise. She brought Nareerat to life with such quiet authority, no dramatic gestures needed. Her subtle expressions and calm demeanor carried the full weight of family expectations and tradition.
I didn’t expect to write this much about the series, but it’s just so rich and layered. It really got under my skin in the best way.
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What I loved most about this series is how the characters are unapologetically imperfect and they own it. That’s exactly what made me fall for them. It’s not some sugar-coated story; quite the opposite. It’s raw, emotional, and deeply fascinating. Riku Hagiwara (Hira) and Yagi Yusei (Kiyoi) brought these layered, complex characters to life so beautifully. Their expressions say so much, especially Kiyoi. He communicates so much through just his eyes. A lot of the story is about what’s left unsaid. Definitely adding this one to my list of all-time favorites.
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And yet... I absolutely loved it. Everything. The storyline, the cast, the cinematography, the OST. It’s a little masterpiece. A love that transcends time, full of promises, memories, waiting, longing, heartbreak, and acceptance. I’m not saying the plot is flawless, but there’s something so genuine and real about it that completely drew me in.
The mix of languages was a huge bônus. It made everything feel even more authentic. I saw a few comments criticizing Tontae’s English, but honestly, it would’ve been weird if he spoke perfectly. His character was chosen to guide Victor precisely to practice his English, so it actually made sense.
The acting was solid across the board, especially from the three leads. Every emotion hit just right, especially in the heavy dramatic scenes. And the way the series promoted cultural tourism didn’t bother me at all as it was so naturally woven into the story. And Thai landscapes are always breathtaking.
The soundtrack is addictive and beautiful. No doubt, this one's going on my favorites list for the year, even with that soul-crushing ending. This indie series went way beyond what I was expecting and it delivered hard.
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The characters were thoughtfully written and richly developed, capturing adolescence and the often tumultuous transition into adulthood. From the thrill of first love to family and social pressures, and the uncertainty about the future, the show gracefully navigates these universal themes.
Although Kim and Mon were the most “immature” couple, they were undeniably my favorites, radiating sweetness at maximum intensity. The chemistry between Chokun and Aston was simply perfect. Shane and Kit stood out as the most mature couple, both in personality and in how they evolved throughout the story. Then there’s Per and Tar, whose antics had me laughing out Loud. They gave us the most lovable “bromance” ever. And of course, Nat and Tan, proving that opposites truly attract and that love knows no age.
As much as I adored the series, not everything was Sunshine. The only real sore spot for me was Mon’s mother, who consistently tested my patience and felt out of sync with the rest of the series.
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The series offers a realistic take on marriage, showing both its highs and lows through Lin I-ling’s perspective. After three years of marriage, she finds herself torn between her family’s expectations and her own. It does an amazing job exploring themes like infidelity, family pressure, and the need for personal space in a relationship, all without falling into predictable clichés. It’s a refreshingly honest look at what marriage really means and makes you reflect on the reality of long-term commitment.
One of the things I loved most was how the show highlights the importance of communication. Not just in marriage but in all relationships. The scene where Lin I-ling and her mother-in-law finally have an honest conversation was so moving.
Finding a partner who truly grows with you until that inevitable “’til death do us part” is rare. Challenges will come, ups and downs are part of the deal, but at the end of the day, what really matters is trust, love, and the ability to talk things through and face life together.
Highly recommend this one!
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It’s lighthearted and fun, but it also touches on deeper topics, like family relationships and the challenges of being in a same-sex relationship in a world that isn’t always ready to accept it, but without unnecessary drama. Honestly, I don’t think the series would’ve worked without Keen and Sea. They were so natural and genuine that I truly believed in Moo and Kang’s love. They did an incredible job capturing the emotions and physical experience of falling in love when you’re young.
I highly recommend checking it out!
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Even though it tackles darker themes than your typical K-drama and has a few sensitive scenes, it never feels heavy. Honestly, it’s one of the best K-dramas I’ve ever watched. With each episode, I felt more and more drawn into the story that has such a strong plot that really dives deep into the human condition and all its layers.
The show makes you reflect on the root causes of social issues, but it does so in such a moving and thoughtful way. The cast is incredible. Every single character, from inmates to prison guards, plays an essential and touching role. Everyone shines in their own way and helps bring this raw, realistic world to life.
It doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff, but it also reminds us that people are complicated. No one is born evil. Sometimes life puts us in impossible situations that force us to change and make unthinkable choices.
Totally worth every second. I highly recommend it. A must-watch.
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The supporting cast is flawless, but special shoutout to Andy Chen as Gao Tian. He stole every scene he was in. The show’s direction is delicate and thoughtful, with stunning cinematography and an amazing OST. That open ending definitely left me craving more, so I really hope Patrick Liu keeps his promise and delivers a second season. Waiting very impatiently for that!
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