Love's Tangled Threads
Secret Relationships was one of my most anticipated Korean BLs this year. After a quiet 2024 for full-length KBL dramas, it felt refreshing to see companies still investing in a complete narrative rather than just quick reel-type content. I did not watch any teasers or read the plot beforehand because I prefer to experience the full drama once it is released. The series has 8 episodes with a runtime of about 30 minutes each, and I must say they made excellent use of that time. Every episode felt essential to the development of the plot, and I appreciated how the backstories, conflicts, characters, and romance unfolded gradually.The plot is strong overall, and I believe it handled the romantic conflict better than my favorite 2024 drama, Love for Love's Sake. The story gave balanced screen time to Songhyeon, Jaemin, and Suhyeon, allowing their love conflicts to simmer instead of resolving too quickly. One aspect that could have been improved is the handling of emotional scenes, which sometimes lacked the depth I hoped for. I must admit that the title, Secret Relationships, was a bit misleading because there were only a few true secrets. In fact, Jaemin and Suhyeon’s plotline could have been explored more. The introduction of the masochistic side of Jaemin felt rushed; I understand the runtime limitations, but it left me wanting more clarity.
There were also moments that felt clichéd and predictable. Despite these issues, the drama was a solid representation of different types of love. Jaemin’s love was obsessive and unhealthy, Suhyeon’s was self-sacrificing, and Songhyeon’s was unconditional. Initially, I found myself rooting for Jaemin because his intensity seemed like what Da On needed. However, as the story unfolded, I grew to despise the harmful side of his obsession. On the other hand, Suhyeon’s motivations were initially confusing, but it later became clear that no matter how protective he was, his love was not what Da On needed. And then there is Songhyeon—his patience, perseverance, and genuine affection make his love the kind many people dream of.
On the acting front, I was thoroughly impressed. Junseo, in his likely first major project, truly embodied Da On. I was both compelled and pleasantly surprised by his performance, especially when I learned he is also from a K-pop group. He managed to handle both the sensual and emotional aspects of his role with confidence and charm. Hoyoung impressed me with his blend of innocent vibes and deeper emotional acting, while Jungwoo, though his character was less appealing, was an undeniable eye candy with a mesmerizing performance. Sunhyung, too, delivered a strong performance in the emotionally charged scenes. The cinematography was exactly what one would expect from a Korean production, and although the OST was good, it did not leave a lasting impression.
Overall, Secret Relationships is a testament to how Korean BLs have evolved over time. It demands some mental engagement, but for someone who has watched over a hundred BLs and numerous Korean dramas, it is neither intimidating nor overly complex. It remains entertaining, engaging, and primarily focuses on character development with minimal filler. I may even find myself binge-watching WEI's releases after this one.
PS. I find it funny in the last scene where Junseo raised his eyebrow to signal Sunhyung to kiss him. I am not sure if that's intentional but they could've cut it better.
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IT NEARLY GAVE WHAT IT WAS SUPPOSED TO GIVE
Okay, I gave this drama a second rewatch. Maybe I didn't focus enough when I watched it the first time.Some of the things I pointed out still stand. It did leave me with a "Huh? That's it?" reaction in the end. Watching it again didn't provide me with a clear reason why this whole project is confusing.
The story did revolve around the "Business Gay Performance" concept, but it felt like it's going somewhere, but you realized it's already the end. Maybe having many subplots played a part in why this drama felt rushed.
When I was watching EP 8 initially, where they're already confessing to each other, I checked the remaining time and realized it's reaching its end. I was really disappointed.
Let's go to the actors!
Nine, I think, carried (for the main leads). He did act well and show the necessary emotion needed for specific scenes. I'll admit some of his line delivery is monotonous, but you'll give him credit for trying, especially since this is their first drama. And being drowned in BAE173 content due to Love Class 2, I thought he and Hangyul looked similar.
Mill, as mentioned, I understand that this is their first drama, and his acting did show some potential in some parts, and I'll give him credit for that. But I was confused as to why he didn't maintain eye contact, especially in the ending scene. I am not sure if he's looking at Nine's chin or what, and don't get me started on the English lines. I was really thrown off by that.
KB, I still hate his character, so I think he did well. The plot didn't do justice to his potential, to be honest.
Junjie and Rie were alright. They did what they had to do with what was given to them.
Yoojung, let me preface this by saying he might be my favorite member of the group (initially, I said Nine); he's handsome. BUT! Why did his English lines with Mill feel so awkward? They really tried T_T.
I stand by my initial review that this type of idol-casted drama is a "make or break" situation. In the case of OnlyOneOf, I believe that they really tried their best (who wouldn't?), and I'll give credit for that.
Right now, I am really interested in knowing the group further since I am also a K-pop enthusiast. Especially when I did get to know BAE173 and OMEGA X, through BLs as well.
I will end this by saying, if you're their fan (lyOn), I understand why you watched, enjoyed, and liked this drama. And for someone who didn't know the group initially, this might be the best introduction you need to be interested in the group.
Watching their Idol League episode proved that Yoojung is my bias.
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a bite sized romance
I stumbled upon My Secret Vampire after seeing it recommended on a BL site, and the vampire premise hooked me right away. After enjoying The Golden Blood, I hoped this one would take that supernatural angle and push it even further. But knowing how budget limitations usually affect Korean BLs with fantasy concepts, I kept my expectations modest.The vampire element turned out to be a very small part of the story, and honestly, that was a bit of a letdown. If you removed the supernatural angle and turned this into a simple story about four odd housemates and one of them secretly crushing on the lead, it would still function the same way. The concept had potential, but it didn’t get the depth or focus it deserved. Instead, the narrative leaned more heavily on the slow development of feelings between the leads. That part worked, but it left me wishing they explored the vampire angle more.
Still, I appreciated that they didn’t overload the short runtime with unnecessary twists. They kept it clean, cohesive, and easy to follow. With only eight episodes running around twenty minutes each, I expected conflicts to resolve quickly. They did take a bit of time to unfold, but the payoff felt short and could have used a stronger emotional push. Even so, the story felt complete.
The cast carried a lot of the charm. Yu Sin’s calm, almost unreadable expressions softened whenever he smiled which made his character feel warm even without many words. Dong Ju, on the other hand, was bright, fresh, and emotional when needed. Dongha’s naivety surprisingly didn’t irritate me because his expressions felt genuine. The comedy added by Dong Yeol and Ju Young balanced the mood while Taehyung handled most of the tension.
The visuals were beautiful as expected from a Korean production, and the OST was solid. I also loved the nostalgic touch of using the Oh! Boarding House location. And of course, credit where it’s due, Ju Won and Dongha’s kiss was done well. If a drama wants to include a kiss, it should commit to it instead of faking it.
Overall, My Secret Vampire could have delivered a stronger supernatural narrative, but it made the most of what it had. It was cute, light, a little emotional, and a good way to relax without thinking too hard. It may not fully satisfy viewers craving a deep vampire plot, but as a fluffy romance with hints of fantasy, it works.
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Youthful Charms
About Youth is one of those dramas you watch when you need a break from heavy plots. It’s soft, sweet, and centers around self-discovery with just the right dash of high school romance and friendship. Watching it felt like flipping through a scrapbook of moments, some memorable, some fleeting, but mostly comforting.From the start, it establishes a light and charming tone. The chemistry between the main leads was definitely a highlight. Their connection felt natural and unforced, making it easy to root for them. The second couple also brought their own charm to the table, though I was honestly a little distracted by Ray’s long hair at first, but hey, it worked somehow.
Where About Youth falls short is in its ambition. It introduces so many plot points: student elections, family struggles, music school dreams, even a symbolic umbrella, yet it barely scratches the surface of any of them. I can’t help but feel that if it had a few more episodes or a longer runtime, the story could’ve developed with more clarity and emotional payoff. Some scenes, particularly the musical performances, didn’t really click with me, so I ended up skipping those, but that’s more about personal taste.
That said, the drama never pretended to be more than what it is. It’s a feel-good story with a simple narrative and likable characters. There’s no need to overanalyze. It knows its strengths: pretty leads, charming interactions, and a youthful vibe that makes it easy to enjoy in one sitting.
With a bit more time and writing polish, it could've unraveled the storylines it teased. But as it stands, About Youth is a light and visually appealing watch that makes for an easy weekend binge.
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the end does not justify the means
I stumbled upon Spare Me Your Mercy not because of hype or a trailer, but through a high-rating review on a well-known BL website. Curious and a bit tired of the usual tropes, I gave it a go — and I’m glad I did. It’s one of those rare dramas that don't try to spoon-feed you romance or fluff, but instead ask uncomfortable, deeply human questions like: Is it ever okay to assist someone who wants to die? or Does good intention outweigh a questionable act?The drama revolves around the haunting idea that “the end does not justify the means.” And in that regard, it succeeds. It mirrors real-world moral ambiguity without pushing for a black-and-white answer. What complicates things even more — and what kept me glued — is that it also subtly tackles “do we have the right to determine our own death?” This duality gives the show its punch.
From the get-go, I already suspected Dr. Kan. His cold gentleness felt like a red flag — manipulative yet masked in empathy. Sadly, his character’s big reveal lacked the kind of gripping buildup you'd expect from a tightly crafted mystery. Think K-drama twist, but several notches down. It’s not bad, but it definitely left room for more careful layering.
The show’s pacing is surprisingly effective. It flows well, keeps you guessing, and never overstays a scene. But the character count? A bit much. Every time a new character was introduced, clarity followed — but only momentarily, before things got murky again. It didn’t help that some seemed to exist just to pad the runtime, which I felt was unnecessary.
What really struck me was the attempted romantic subplot. The show starts by hinting at something emotional or romantic, then quickly abandons it without payoff. I wasn’t too mad about it, though. This drama doesn’t need romance to stand tall. But if they wanted to add it, they should’ve committed — or not at all.
Now, credit where it’s due: the performances. The leads carried this drama with so much restraint and nuance, especially in the final episode. The last 15 minutes? Easily the peak. My heart raced, my brain processed, and even though it ended on an open note, I wasn’t confused. I felt the weight of it — that says a lot.
In the end, Spare Me Your Mercy is less about murder and more about morality. It's about the lines people cross, the excuses they make, and the damage that even love or compassion can do. It's not perfect — the story could use a tighter script and fewer distractions — but it does what many BL dramas don’t dare to do: strip away romantic fantasy and stare straight into the shadows of choice and consequence.
If you’re looking for a break from the sugar-coated school romances and want something that aches a little deeper, this one’s for you.
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Fights, Friendships, and Bromance Stuck in a Time Capsule
High School Frenemy is a refreshing Thai drama released this year, offering a mix of friendship dynamics, school life, and conflict resolution, all wrapped in a "troublemaker student" narrative. The show effectively balances its core friendship themes with moments of bromance, although the latter feels outdated and underdeveloped in today's context.The drama's exploration of troubled youth and their relationships is commendable, but the bromance angle, while initially engaging, becomes off-putting due to its overly restrained portrayal. There are moments that clearly call for deeper romantic elements, but the show hesitates, giving the impression of a 2010-era production rather than a 2024 release. The chemistry between Shin and Saint holds potential and, if explored further, could elevate any future projects they undertake together.
While the storyline occasionally falls into predictable patterns, the characters' conflicts still provide a satisfying emotional payoff. Some situations feel exaggerated but are essential to the overall narrative. The fight scenes, integral to the plot, are decently executed, though still teetering on the edge of cringeworthy at times, they align with the premise and tone of the series.
One standout aspect is the character of Chatjen, who emerges as the glue holding the friendship and the story together. Without resorting to physical force, Chatjen's actions and quiet determination drive much of the plot. Seeing Mark take on this role after his performance in Only Friends is a treat; his acting versatility shines here.
The drama’s 12-episode format is a welcome change from the recent trend of shorter Thai BL series. However, the show suffers from unnecessary filler scenes, making some episodes feel drawn out, I found myself skipping nearly 40% of the content. Despite this, the series is still more engaging than recent releases like Sunset x Vibes and The Rebound, to name a few.
Overall, High School Frenemy is an enjoyable watch with a strong premise, albeit slightly bogged down by dated bromance tropes and cringe-worthy moments. Its solid plot and heartfelt exploration of friendship make it a worthwhile addition to this year’s Thai drama lineup.
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Bad Guy... Plot Went MIA
Bad Guy My Boss is a Thai BL drama that initially piqued my interest with its intriguing teasers, but unfortunately, it fell short of delivering the same level of satisfaction in execution. While it’s a consumable watch, it left much to be desired, particularly in terms of coherence and believability.The series was, at best, a patchwork of ideas thrown together without much concern for narrative consistency. The story lacked clarity and often felt like a compilation of unrelated concepts mashed into a single plotline. This incoherence made it hard to stay invested, and while I did complete the series, it was more out of curiosity than enjoyment. The overreliance on sensual scenes to fill plot gaps was particularly noticeable, and though this may appeal to some viewers, it detracted from the overall storytelling.
That said, there were moments of believability, especially in the subplot featuring Thiti and Thiranai. Their dynamic felt more grounded compared to the main leads, whose interactions often veered into the realm of the unbelievable. Speaking of the main leads, while they were undeniably attractive (Pat without glasses, in particular), their chemistry and character arcs left much to be desired. Pat’s portrayal as a naive, often irritating protagonist showcased some potential but wasn’t enough to carry the series.
The premise of a "sexually induced bad guy" is a challenging one to pull off, and in this case, the execution fell flat. The actor’s lack of skill to embody this complex character type was evident, especially when compared to Pavel’s portrayal in Pit Babe, which, while not exceptional, was at least believable. The sensual scenes, instead of adding depth or tension, often felt gratuitous and misplaced, mirroring the disjointed nature of the plot.
The series reminded me of Unforgotten Night, another Thai BL drama with a similarly incoherent narrative. However, at least Unforgotten Night had a character like Phusanu, whose strong-willed personality added a sense of direction to the story. In contrast, Bad Guy My Boss struggled to establish a clear identity, feeling more like Guy with High Sex Drive Boss Became My Lover.
Overall, Bad Guy My Boss is neither bad nor good, it sits squarely in the middle, as a series that’s watchable but not memorable. While it might appeal to viewers looking for a light, uninvolved watch, it’s not something I’d rewatch intentionally.
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delightful balance of sweet and spicy
Love in the Air is a delightful Thai BL drama that effectively balances two central romantic relationships. Unlike many multi-couple dramas that struggle with pacing or character development, Love in the Air seamlessly integrates the storylines of Rain/Payu and Pai/Sky, providing a satisfying narrative for both pairs.The series boasts impressive cinematography and well-executed intimate scenes, particularly between Rain and Payu. It's refreshing to see a school-based drama that genuinely focuses on academic pursuits and extracurricular activities, rather than treating them as mere backdrops. Love in the Air blends the story of Pit Babe (with lesser make love scenes) with the competitive spirit of My School President.
While the drama excels in many areas, it does have a few minor flaws. The jealous tendencies of the couples, especially after their feelings are established, can sometimes feel repetitive. Additionally, the repeated initial scene could have been edited more effectively.
Of the two couples, Pai and Sky's storyline is particularly compelling, with Sky's sassy demeanor and Pai's emotional depth creating a captivating dynamic. The assault scene involving Sky could have been handled with more emotional impact, but the overall narrative remains engaging.
While some supporting characters, like the racing boss, could have been introduced more thoroughly, the kidnapping scene, though predictable, doesn't significantly detract from the overall enjoyment. Pai and Payu's relationship offers valuable insights into the challenges of navigating a relationship with an overthinker and overly assuming partner.
Overall, Love in the Air is a well-crafted drama that effectively balances multiple storylines, offers engaging characters, and provides a satisfying viewing experience.
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VERY STRAIGHTFORWARD WITH INITIAL RUSHED PACING
City of Stars is a straightforward Thai BL that offers a familiar yet refreshing take on the actor-idol-in-love trope. While the plot follows a predictable trajectory of love, challenges, and a happy ending, the series manages to stand out with its brisk pacing and engaging character arcs. The rapid development of Fueang and Krom’s relationship, although unconventional, allows for more intricate conflict exploration. Unfortunately, some of these conflicts feel rushed, depriving them of the emotional depth they could have attained.Job's portrayal of Fueang is commendable, with his expressive acting and undeniable chemistry with his co-star. Krom's character, on the other hand, initially comes across as monotonous but gradually evolves into a more nuanced portrayal. The series effectively captures the dynamics between fans, actors, and the media, highlighting the importance of respecting artists’ personal lives. Although laden with kisses, the intimate scenes feel genuine and contribute to the overall sweetness of the drama.
It's a pleasant surprise to see Kimmon, known for his role in 2 Moons, reprise his acting career as Kodit. His noticeable acting improvement is impressive, and his presence adds depth to the series.
Ultimately, City of Stars is an easy-to-watch series that delivers a satisfying conclusion while providing some valuable insights into the pressures of fame.
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SWEET AND I'M OBSESSED!
Primarily drawn to the series due to my admiration for Saint from Love By Chance, I found myself invested in Secret Crush on You despite his limited role. The first half of the show is undeniably cringe-inducing, accurately capturing the intensity of an obsessive crush. While Toh and Khao's characters often bordered on naivete, their dynamic was undeniably endearing at times. Toh's performance, in particular, was commendable for its extreme yet realistic portrayal of infatuation. Neua's character, though initially one-dimensional, benefited from his strong visual presence.The supporting cast, Toh's group of friends, delivered authentic performances, showcasing a genuine camaraderie that was refreshing to watch. Despite skipping some unnecessary scenes, the series effectively conveyed the lengths people go to for love. Toh and Neua's relationship, while unrealistic, provided a sweet escape from reality. However, the series' true standout was its original soundtrack, especially "You're Magic in My Life," a captivating tune that added depth to the overall viewing experience.
While the core premise was executed well, the series lacked depth in certain areas, such as the character development of Neua when he discovered Toh's obsessive nature. The potential impact of this revelation was underutilized. Additionally, the character of Prao could have been explored further to enhance the overall storyline. Despite these shortcomings, Secret Crush on You offers a unique and entertaining viewing experience, provided viewers approach it with an open mind and a willingness to embrace its over-the-top moments.
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a love story that haunts you
I stumbled upon Something In My Room through a random YouTube recommendation and decided to give it a shot without expecting much. To my surprise, it turned out to be one of the most cohesive and emotionally grounded BL dramas I’ve watched, especially coming from the 2022 lineup.At first glance, the plot might sound like a typical ghost-human love story. A spirit with no memory, a living boy who can see him—sounds like the usual horroresque setup, right? But the show cleverly veers away from cheap scare tactics and focuses instead on emotional healing, grief, and closure. It wasn’t trying to be a horror, and I appreciated that. Instead, it offered something heartfelt and quietly haunting.
The storyline follows Phob, a ghost who must remember his past to move on, and Phat, the boy who gets tangled in his story. What could’ve easily been predictable was instead carefully thought out. Each mystery unraveled with satisfying pacing, and the final episode felt like a proper farewell. I genuinely think this could’ve made a solid sequel or spin-off with its fresh concept, especially compared to most of what 2025 is offering.
Nut (Phob), whom I’ve seen from Pit Babe Season 1, absolutely delivered. He wasn't just eye candy—his comedic timing and emotional depth were unexpectedly strong. He deserves another lead role after Pit Babe 2, no question. Phat’s actor, while occasionally underwhelming in certain scenes, had a solid performance overall and matched well with Nut. Their chemistry was believable and quietly intense.
There were side characters that worked and some that didn’t. Uncle Nong and Aunt Nuan were standout additions, particularly when Nuan’s storyline with Phob’s father came to light. That twist caught me off guard. Dream, the ever-supportive friend, was another strong presence that made scenes feel less isolated. On the other hand, Lak—honestly, just toss him in the river and move on. And Phat’s mom? Her presence didn’t impact the story much. She felt like background noise to an already full narrative.
There were a few parts that confused me. I was taken aback when Phat suddenly touched Phob or when Phob appeared in a black shirt—both moments felt jarring until explained later. These moments could’ve benefitted from a more immediate clarification.
The ending is where the drama takes a risk. Many fictional stories tend to wrap up with feel-good conclusions, even in death. I thought they might pull the reincarnation route or have some magical workaround, but they didn’t. And I respect that. It’s a sobering reminder that sometimes love just doesn’t get the fairy tale ending. But the subtle hint that Phob waited for Phat to pass before meeting again gave the final scene a quiet closure that stayed with me. It wasn’t sugarcoated, but it was honest.
There’s a deeper layer to this show, beyond romance. It dares to ask what grief and anger do to us, how we project our pain onto others, and whether love—even when genuine—is enough to bridge the gap between life and death.
Something In My Room is not perfect, but it’s a rare gem. It stands apart from the overused rom-com formula and dares to end without pretending everything will be okay. It’s eerie, heartfelt, and quietly bold.
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finding "home"
Watching Unknown right after Fourever You Part 1 while waiting for Part 2 was truly one of my best decisions this year. This Taiwanese BL exceeded all my expectations, proving yet again why Taiwan consistently delivers emotionally rich and thought-provoking stories without relying on flashy, over-the-top plots.Taiwanese BLs, in general, focus less on spectacle and more on meaningful storytelling, and Unknown is no exception. To call it a masterpiece would still feel like an understatement because it’s so much more than that. The story follows familiar themes we’ve seen in BLs for years, yet it presents them in a way that feels fresh, deeply emotional, and genuinely engaging.
I initially found this drama through a random social media comment while looking for something to watch between releases, and I’m so glad I did. It’s right up there with The Only One, First Note of Love, and See Your Love in terms of quality, making me appreciate the consistency of Taiwanese BL productions even more.
One thing I need to clear up—this is not a bromance. It’s a full-fledged BL. But if we were to ever accept the "bromance" tag, this would be the perfected version of it. The reason? Unlike certain shows (yes, I’m looking at you, High School Frenemy!), which use the term to bait audiences without actually delivering, Unknown fully commits to its romantic narrative while maintaining the careful and nuanced storytelling often associated with bromance tropes.
It doesn’t just rely on explicit confirmation of feelings—it shows the emotions, the tension, and the depth of the characters’ relationship in a way that feels real and organic. This is what many "bromance-tagged" dramas fail to do.
The moment Yuan realized his feelings for Qian was executed so effectively that it stands as one of the best moments in the series. Their sexual tension was present throughout, but it was handled maturely and naturally. I also appreciate that both actors are of legal age, which is something that shouldn’t even need to be said, but unfortunately still matters in many BL discussions.
Chris and Kurt delivered phenomenal performances, bringing their characters to life with an emotional depth that made every moment feel authentic. Tammy and Jae Hoon (I KNEW he was Korean at first glance!) were also fantastic, playing pivotal roles that contributed meaningfully to the overall story.
Visually, Unknown is on par with the best Taiwanese BLs I’ve seen. The cinematography was stunning, complementing the emotional weight of the story perfectly. The intimate scenes were not just there for the sake of fanservice—they were genuine and thoughtfully crafted, enhancing the connection between the characters instead of being gratuitous.
The emotional depth of the characters was introduced well, though I do wish they had taken just a bit more time to explore certain aspects more clearly. But even with that small nitpick, the series delivered an experience that was both heartfelt and unforgettable.
Like The Only One, the true essence of Unknown is home—what it means, how we find it, and how love plays a role in defining it. You could remove the romance from this drama, and it would still be a beautifully told story about belonging and connection. But the romance does exist, and it makes the journey all the more powerful.
Watching Unknown before January 2025 ends was truly one of the best choices I made, and I cannot wait to see what these actors and the production team bring next. If you’re looking for a BL that’s emotionally rich, beautifully filmed, and masterfully acted, this is it.
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Kicks and Quirks: A Drama that Lands the Right Punch
Let Free the Curse of Taekwondo is another refreshing addition to the scarce list of Korean BLs this year, a category that has increasingly leaned toward coming-of-age narratives with romantic undertones. Much like its contemporaries (The Trainee and The On1y One), the story remains impactful even when the romantic elements are secondary, proving that a well-crafted journey can stand on its own.The drama’s simplicity makes it easy to consume, yet it never sacrifices depth. Starting with familial conflicts and transitioning to themes of personal, societal, and romantic growth, it delivers a balanced narrative arc. It does not overwhelm but rather harmonizes these elements beautifully, leading to an emotional and satisfying conclusion.
After Do Hoi left, the plot seemed to focus on Ju Yeong’s personal growth, but as the story unfolded, it shifted toward Do Hoi’s personal baggage and the complexities of their relationship, including the involvement of Hyeon Ho. While handled lightly, these arcs still packed a solid emotional punch.
The scriptwriting particularly stood out, with lines that resonated deeply. For example, Do Hoi’s emotionally charged exchanges with Ju Yeong — including the unforgettable “We’ve found love that others take a lifetime to find. That’s a big deal” — showcased the strength of the writing, evoking genuine responses from viewers.
The directing, helmed by the genius behind To My Star, Blueming, and Where Your Eyes Linger, elevated the material to artful levels. Combined with Korea’s trademark for excellent cinematography in BL dramas, the visual presentation was nothing short of breathtaking.
However, there were some shortcomings. Certain scenes lacked emotional weight, undercutting their potential impact. The editing was uneven at times, with abrupt cuts and poorly-timed transitions disrupting the narrative flow. Familiar tropes, such as the stereotypical “abusive father” and the overused “I bullied you because I like you” antagonist, felt predictable and underwhelming. Additionally, the Taekwondo element, while relevant to the characters’ growth, was somewhat scattered in execution.
On the brighter side, the romance was delicately and genuinely portrayed, with intimate moments that felt both authentic and moving. The leads, who communicated profound emotions through their eyes alone, delivered stellar performances. Their chemistry was palpable, particularly in their non-verbal exchanges, exemplified by lines like “Everything that was obscure is now clear to me.” Small Easter eggs, such as the reappearance of To My Star 2’s Ti Aspetto location, added a nostalgic charm.
One criticism raised by some viewers is the seemingly anticlimactic ending. While it might feel understated, not every drama aims for a sequel-worthy cliffhanger. This series chooses to conclude on a sweet and genuine note, encapsulated beautifully when Do Hoi sees Ju Yeong’s search history as they begin opening up to one another. It’s a tender moment that speaks volumes, perfectly summarizing their journey of understanding and connection.
Ultimately, the story’s most resonant theme was the idea of having someone who supports and celebrates your growth as their own. It’s this deeply human connection that elevates the drama beyond a simple BL romance, making it a heartfelt watch. While not overly complex, Let Free the Curse of Taekwondo delivers an emotional payoff that lingers long after the final scene.
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a missed slam dunk?
The Rebound is a disappointing Thai BL drama that fails to deliver on its potential. Despite featuring a talented cast and a promising premise, the series suffers from a messy storyline, inconsistent pacing, and underwhelming performances.The series' focus on basketball and the challenges faced by student athletes could have been a compelling narrative. However, the lack of depth in the characters' personal lives and the inclusion of unnecessary subplots detract from the overall experience. The gangster arc, in particular, feels forced and out of place.
Additionally, the pairing of Meen and Ping in this drama initially didn't generate much excitement for me, as I had similar reservations about their chemistry in Ai Long Nhai and after watching My Dear Gangster Oppa.
While the cinematography is commendable, the acting performances are uneven. Meen's monotonous delivery and Ping's awkward expressions hinder their ability to connect with the audience. The supporting characters, such as Atom and Shogun was underutilized and fail to make a lasting impression.
The series' focus on multiple couples is a missed opportunity. The lack of depth in the relationships and the rushed pacing prevent the audience from fully connecting with the characters.
The final bed scene, intended to salvage the series, falls flat and fails to compensate for the shortcomings of the storytelling.
The Rebound had the potential to be a slam dunk, but it ultimately misses the mark.
The series could have benefited from a more focused narrative, stronger character development, and a more compelling exploration of the challenges faced by student athletes.
Despite its flaws, The Rebound offered a glimpse into the world of basketball and its challenges.
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nothing unforgettable here.
Unforgotten Night is a disappointing Thai BL drama that fails to deliver on its premise. Despite the attractive leads, the series suffers from lackluster performances, awkward chemistry, and an underwhelming storyline. The BDSM elements are poorly executed and fail to create the desired intensity. The mafia setting is also underdeveloped, falling far short of the engaging portrayals seen in dramas like KinnPorsche.While the series has a few redeeming moments, such as the confrontation scene between Cherry and Kim, these are overshadowed by the overall weaknesses. The supporting characters, particularly Cherry, are underutilized despite their potential. The inclusion of scenes in the trailer that are not in the final product adds to the confusion and disappointment.
Ultimately, Unforgotten Night is a FORGETTABLE experience that fails to leave a lasting impression. While the leads may have future projects worth watching, this series is unlikely to be remembered fondly.
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