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  • Last Online: 2 minutes ago
  • Gender: Female
  • Location: USA
  • Contribution Points: 0 LV0
  • Roles: VIP
  • Join Date: October 15, 2018
  • Awards Received: Finger Heart Award20 Flower Award34 Lore Scrolls Award1 Comment of Comfort Award2 Clap Clap Clap Award3 Thread Historian2 Boba Brainstormer1 Emotional Bandage1 Big Brain Award7
Ongoing 14/14
Shadow
39 people found this review helpful
by oddsare Finger Heart Award1 Flower Award1
Nov 2, 2023
14 of 14 episodes seen
Ongoing 4
Overall 9.0
Story 9.5
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 9.0

BL to Thriller or Vice Versa?

At first, my fujoshi heart was all aflutter for some fresh BL content, but six episodes down the line, I found myself spiraling into a rabbit hole of thrills and chills instead.

Not a moment of fast-forward was needed through the saga: it's a wild ride through the eerie and the unknown, with narratives that grip you, suspense that keeps you on the edge, and a raw delve into the realm of mental health. It's a murder mystery adorned with a rich blend of folkloric whimsy and literary allegory, each scene more captivating than the last. This series is where the tender allure of BL meets the pulse-racing thrill of a mystery, all wrapped up in a cloak of cultural and literary elegance.

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Completed
10Dance
23 people found this review helpful
by oddsare Finger Heart Award1
8 days ago
Completed 1
Overall 9.0
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10
This review may contain spoilers

10 DANCE: When Rivalry Becomes Romance

I came to this film as a manga reader, and honestly, I was nervous. The source material is one of those rare BL stories that takes both the sport and the romance seriously: two professional dancers at the peak of their careers, forced to master each other’s specialties to survive the brutal 10 Dance format. The tension between Suzuki and Sugiki works because they are genuine equals, clashing on and off the floor. Translating that to live action felt like a huge risk, especially for the dancing, which is the backbone of the story.

I went in as a Keita Machida fan and came out obsessed with Ryoma Takeuchi too. Machida’s Sugiki is all control and precision, the Standard champion who keeps everything ruthlessly locked down. Takeuchi’s Suzuki has the swagger and physicality you expect from a Latin dancer, but there is real emotional fragility underneath the bravado. What sells it is how fully committed they both are to the actual dancing. This is not actors faking it with doubles; you can see the work in their bodies in every movement.

The dance sequences are where everything clicks. There is an early rehearsal where Suzuki teaches Sugiki a rumba walk, and you catch every tiny adjustment in posture, every weight shift, every moment where Sugiki’s stiffness starts to melt. The camera stays close enough that you see the hand placements, the tension in their frames, and the way their bodies have to negotiate through touch. Later, when Sugiki has to follow instead of lead in the Viennese waltz, the frustration in his face and body says everything about his terror of surrender. By the final performance, they are pulling together everything they have taken from each other: Suzuki’s fire braided with Standard discipline, Sugiki’s control flooded with Latin heat. It is technically impressive, but it hits hardest because these two people who have been orbiting each other finally move as one.

What grounds all of this is the specific reality of competitive ballroom. This world is rigid and hierarchical, built on traditional gender roles, fixed lead and follow dynamics, and heteronormative partnerships. When two men dance together as equals, swapping lead and follow and treating each other as true partners instead of rivals, that is not just romantic. It is disruptive. Choosing connection in a space designed around comparison and ranking reads as its own quiet act of defiance.

The chemistry between Takeuchi and Machida is ridiculous. Every charged look, every lingering touch during practice, every moment where competition blurs into something else feels inevitable but never cheap. The restraint makes it sharper. You are leaning forward, waiting for them to close the distance, and when they finally dance together in that last sequence, the intimacy lands like a confession even though the film stays relatively chaste. That is how you do slow burn in BL: the choreography carries the confession the script never verbalizes.

And yes, this should have been a series. The ending is both satisfying and maddening. You get emotional payoff, but it is very clearly only a midpoint in their story. There is so much more to explore, professionally, romantically, and psychologically, that you can practically feel the missing episodes. It plays less like closure and more like a pilot still waiting for its next season.
I have read the critics calling it too cautious, joking that it needed a chastity coordinator, and faulting it for not fully committing as a queer romance. As an exercise in pure film criticism, you can argue the caution. But as a BL viewer who knows what this genre usually delivers on screen, this is still the standout BL film of the year. The bar for BL cinema is often pretty, tropey, and thin, especially on the big screen. 10 DANCE aims higher, even if it does not swing for the fences in every area.

Most BL gives you surface romance with minimal character work and sports as aesthetic wallpaper. This gives you complicated adults with real ambitions and vulnerabilities, a romance built on mutual respect and earned connection, and dance sequences that actually move the story forward. The restraint reads as maturity, not timidity. The slow burn feels compelling rather than withholding because the film trusts you to read the subtext: to understand what a lingering touch means, to catch the shifts in frame and footwork, and to feel the weight of what never gets said out loud. That is sophisticated storytelling, and it is exactly what this genre needs more of.

If you loved the manga, this respects the core while making smart, medium specific adaptation choices. If you are new to 10 DANCE, it is a gorgeous entry point. And if you care about BL that is ambitious, technically crafted, and emotionally literate, this is essential viewing. Just be ready for that final stretch to leave you desperate for a sequel, and probably already drafting your comment to Netflix asking for one.

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Ongoing 15/15
To My Shore
19 people found this review helpful
Nov 15, 2025
15 of 15 episodes seen
Ongoing 1
Overall 8.5
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 8.5

Two Men, One Storm: The Unexpected Pull of To My Shore

To My Shore starts like a quiet romance novel that suddenly discovers how to flirt. The first two episodes unfold with a slow, smoky elegance that pulls you in before you realize what’s happening. The dialogue is lush, almost musical, and Fan Xiao’s low, textured voice could convince anyone that gravity is optional. Honestly, half the show feels like a BL audio drama someone accidentally filmed.

The “coincidences” between Fan Xiao and You Shu Lang are anything but. They’re storybook encounters wrapped in fate, like two characters who keep drifting into the same chapter no matter how far apart they begin. Fan Xiao arrives with a teasing edge, poking at You Shu Lang’s overly saintlike calm. But somewhere in episode two, that teasing shifts. The tension turns softer. His gaze stops being a game and starts being a confession he hasn’t said out loud yet.

What makes it compelling is the transparency. Fan Xiao pretending to be lost is probably the least believable lie in the entire show. This man doesn’t lose his way. He chooses it. And what he’s really choosing is You Shu Lang. The directions are just an excuse to get close, to pull this orderly, gentle man into a world that runs on instinct and intensity.

And that contrast is exactly where the magic lives. You Shu Lang moves through life with clean moral lines. Fan Xiao moves like a beautiful storm that refuses to stay outside. When they meet, something shifts. Not dramatically, not loudly. Just a quiet, thrilling imbalance that hints at a love story waiting to tip over.

If these first two episodes are the foundation, then To My Shore is shaping up to be a story about two men who don’t just collide—they reroute each other. It’s about discovering that getting lost can sometimes lead you somewhere you were meant to find.

And yes, episode three cannot arrive fast enough.

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Completed
Shine (Orchestric Ver.)
5 people found this review helpful
Sep 21, 2025
8 of 8 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 9.0
Story 9.5
Acting/Cast 9.5
Music 9.5
Rewatch Value 8.0
This review may contain spoilers

Shine (2025) Review: A Story Told Through Objects

I didn’t plan to get attached. I thought I was signing up for another pretty BL with good-looking leads and some historical flavor. Instead, I ended up sitting here with a lump in my throat, staring at ordinary objects that now feel heavier than they should.

That’s the trick Shine pulls off. It doesn’t just tell its story through dialogue or kisses. It tells it through things: a television buzzing with the moon landing, a boy’s notebook full of scribbles, a guitar strummed in secret, a cassette tape holding lives inside its plastic shell, a protest placard raised too high, a pool that goes from comedy to tragedy in one cut, a ruined roll of film, a camera left behind on a piano, a hat still hanging by the door, a one-way plane ticket.

None of these are just props. They are the afterimages of a time when love was dangerous, and memory itself was fragile. Each one reminds us that intimacy can bloom in the shadows, but history can erase it overnight.

And then there’s the music. Slot Machine’s Beyond the Clouds hits like a funeral hymn, looping back to the name of the studio itself. Be On Cloud, Beyond the Clouds. It feels like the company was destined to give us this story, one where love doesn’t float on clouds—it struggles to reach beyond them.

What makes Shine special is its honesty. Some characters survive. Some don’t. One couple grows old together, another is torn apart. It’s harsh, but it’s real. The series doesn’t flatter us with fantasy. It hands us truth: that love and survival don’t always overlap.

When I think back on Shine, I don’t replay the dialogue. I see objects. I see a TV glowing in a dark room, a notebook clutched too tight, a placard raised in protest, a roll of film exposed to light. These are the memories the show left me with. And maybe that’s the point. History doesn’t always remember the lovers. It remembers what they left behind.

⭐ 9.5/10
A drama that turns props into poetry, romance into history, and memory into survival.

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Completed
Top Form
7 people found this review helpful
May 20, 2025
11 of 11 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 9.5
Story 9.5
Acting/Cast 10
Music 8.5
Rewatch Value 9.0

TOP FORM: The quiet ache behind the camera.

Some BL dramas go for instant heat.
Top Form chooses a slow simmer—the kind that lingers long after the final frame fades to black.

Adapted from the Japanese manga Dakaretai Otoko 1-i ni Odosarete Imasu, this Thai reinterpretation steps out of the shadow of its source and quietly becomes its own. Not louder. Just deeper.

Set in the entertainment industry, the series follows two actors on seemingly opposite paths—one seasoned and guarded, the other rising and relentless. But this isn’t just a story about competition. Or desire. Or fame.

It’s about presence.

The beauty of Top Form lies in its restraint.
In the way it lingers on glances.
In the pauses between lines.
In the weight of words unsaid.

Yes, there are steamy moments—well-crafted, cinematic, and buzzworthy. But what makes this series extraordinary is what it doesn’t show off. It trusts the viewer. It trusts the silence. And it trusts its cast—especially Boom and Smart—to hold the emotional weight with breathtaking nuance.

The cinematography is elegant without ever being fussy.
The writing is romantic without being sentimental.
And the direction carries just enough edge to keep it grounded in reality, rather than fantasy.

What’s most striking is how Top Form captures something very now:
the longing for connection in a world that constantly demands performance.
And the courage it takes to love when nothing—especially not yourself—feels entirely safe.

This isn’t just a story of two men falling in love.
It’s a story of two people learning how to stay.

And if you’ve ever needed a reminder that quiet love can still roar—
Top Form is the kind of series that leaves its echo with you.

Even after the screen goes dark.

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Ongoing 12/12
Minato Shouji Coin Laundry Season 2
8 people found this review helpful
Sep 6, 2023
12 of 12 episodes seen
Ongoing 1
Overall 5.0
Story 5.0
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 6.0
Rewatch Value 1.0
This review may contain spoilers

Minato Coin Laundromat: Where love's spin cycle meets rinse and repeat...and forget?

Season one warms your heart like that snuggly sweater on a chilly night. But season two? More like accidentally dyeing your whites pink. Minato's sudden cold feet with Shin? Imagine realizing you've been using fabric softener instead of detergent all along. And oh, the selective amnesia? Must've been left behind with those missing socks. A tip: Before diving into season two, maybe keep those emotional delicates in a protective mesh bag!

If you’re into those acquired taste kind of characters, give Minato a whirl. But me? Watching him was like enduring a never-ending spin cycle!

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Completed
Wandering
3 people found this review helpful
Nov 20, 2023
Completed 0
Overall 8.5
Story 8.5
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 7.5
Rewatch Value 8.5
This review may contain spoilers

Momadic Moon

“Nomadic Moon,” with its formidable 150-minute duration, might initially seem like a lengthy commitment. Yet, the film effortlessly envelops you in its world, making the time pass unnoticed. This is a testament to Lee Sang-il’s exceptional directorial prowess. His talent for crafting a story that’s deeply engaging without relying on flamboyance is remarkable.

The performances of Suzu Hirose and Toma Matsuzaka stand out, clearly a result of Lee’s deep commitment to the film. From my perspective, these roles could be considered the pinnacle of their acting careers thus far.

While “Nomadic Moon” has a delicacy that may not resonate with all audiences, its subtle interplay of themes like the moon and water leaves a lasting impact, prompting thoughtful discussions—an enriching experience especially for adult viewers.

Additionally, the performances by Ryusei Yokohama and Mikako Tabe are noteworthy and add depth to this beautifully crafted film.

It's fascinating to explore how societal norms and perceptions of mental health evolve, influencing our interpretation of characters and narratives in media.

The term "Lolita complex," known in Japanese as "rorikon," originates from Vladimir Nabokov's novel "Lolita." It describes an adult's sexual attraction to young girls, typically those who are prepubescent or in early adolescence. In Japan, this term is prevalent in both clinical and popular cultural contexts, though its interpretations can vary widely.

In this film, a young man shelters an abused girl, which places him in a delicate social position. Society swiftly categorizes him under the stigmatized label of 'Lolita complex,' regardless of his true intentions. This scenario mirrors a larger societal trend of quick judgments and ostracization based on superficial assessments or misinterpretations, without fully considering the complexity of the circumstances.

The movie challenges its viewers to reassess their biases and the simplicity with which they might label someone with a 'Lolita complex.' It weaves a narrative that obscures the line between societal labels and personal actions, prompting the audience to reconsider their viewpoints. The film's deliberate ambiguity suggests that judgment is in the eyes of the beholder, reflecting their personal prejudices or sympathies.

This method of storytelling, where the audience's interpretation becomes a mirror of their personal thoughts and societal conditioning, is compelling. It not only narrates a story but also engages the viewers in profound introspection about societal norms, mental health stigmas, and the often unfair practice of marginalizing individuals based on misinterpreted actions or misconceptions.

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Completed
All the Long Nights
2 people found this review helpful
Oct 3, 2025
Completed 0
Overall 7.5
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 8.5
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 8.0

All the Long Nights: The Anti-Romance We Need

“Doesn’t matter if you’re a man or a woman, or even if you don’t get along—people can still help each other out, right?”

“Well, yeah! I mean, doctors and patients aren’t always the same gender either.”

I rewatched All the Long Nights over the long weekend, and honestly, it hit differently the second time. The film follows Misa Fujisawa and Takatoshi Yamazoe, two coworkers struggling with mental health issues—her with severe PMS, him with panic attacks. They start off annoying the hell out of each other at work, but slowly learn to understand and support one another.

Here’s the thing: most mainstream movies would’ve turned this into a rom-com with manufactured drama and a love story. But this film? It goes nowhere near that territory. Misa and Yamazoe barely even qualify as friends—they’re more like two people dealing with similar pain who help each other when they can. And there’s definitely no miraculous recovery or overly positive ending where everything’s suddenly fine.

So I wouldn’t call this a tearjerker, but it made me feel something deeper. It’s all those tiny, wordless moments of kindness between people—the small gestures that warm you up inside. And here’s what’s beautiful: that warmth doesn’t come from one special person or fit neatly into some relationship box like “romance” or “friendship.”

It’s not about anyone saving anyone. It’s about how a compassionate, accepting environment can heal you. How even in endless darkness, you can hold onto hope and believe a new dawn will eventually come.

The dialogue is sparse, the pacing is slow, but the cinematography is gorgeous—all that light and shadow work is chef’s kiss. For me, this is the perfect film to watch when you need to quiet your mind and just… breathe.

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LoveSick 2024
2 people found this review helpful
Dec 23, 2024
15 of 15 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.5
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 7.0
Rewatch Value 8.5

Love Sick 2024: When Lightning Strikes Twice

Remember when Thai BL was the industry’s best-kept secret? Now it’s a global phenomenon, and Love Sick 2024 arrives to remind us why this genre captured hearts worldwide in the first place. This remake of the 2014 classic that helped ignite Thailand’s BL wave walks a delicate tightrope between nostalgia and reinvention—and it’s a balancing act worth watching.

The bones of the story remain: two high school boys navigate friendship, first love, and the rocky road of self-discovery. But this isn’t your older sibling’s Love Sick. Per and Mawin’s romance now unfolds in a world where production values gleam like Bangkok skyscrapers, and character development runs deeper than the Chao Phraya. Their family dynamics and personal struggles feel remarkably current, swapping out melodrama for a nuanced exploration of modern Thai youth culture.

The glow-up is undeniable. Every frame looks like it was dipped in honey, with cinematography that turns stolen glances into visual poetry. Yet, there’s a part of you that misses the original’s raw charm—like when your favorite street food joint gets a Michelin star. Sure, the plates are prettier, but something of that initial magic gets lost in translation.

Speaking of translations, let’s talk about the soundtrack. Thai BLs are known for their emotional musical punches—those heart-swelling ballads that linger long after the credits roll. While the original Love Sick gave us earworms that millennials still hum in convenience stores, the remake opts for a more sophisticated, ambient score. It’s beautifully produced, but it doesn’t hit you in the same visceral way.

For newcomers to Thai BL, this polished version serves as the perfect gateway drug. It’s accessible, stunning to look at, and emotionally resonant without requiring a PhD in BL tropes. For veterans, it might be a more complicated affair—caught between appreciating the craftsmanship and yearning for the unfiltered sincerity of the original.

Love Sick 2024 proves that lightning can strike twice—it just hits differently. The remake honors its roots while acknowledging how both the genre and its audience have grown up. Whether that growth feels like evolution or just really good cosmetic surgery probably depends on your relationship with the original. Either way, it’s a feast for the eyes and a workout for the heart.

So, is it worth watching? Absolutely. Love Sick 2024 doesn’t just reimagine a classic—it reflects how we, as viewers, have evolved. The original captured the messiness of teenage love; the remake captures our desire to make sense of it. Both have a place, just like there’s room for both our past and present selves.

And if you need me, I’ll be rewatching both versions back-to-back for the third time. You know, for research.

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Ongoing 5/8
I Cannot Reach You
6 people found this review helpful
Oct 20, 2023
5 of 8 episodes seen
Ongoing 0
Overall 8.5
Story 8.5
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 9.0
This review may contain spoilers

Uncharted Hearts: A Youthful Sonata of Love and Hesitation

Upon the curtain fall of the fifth episode, my hesitation to draft a review for this ongoing BL manga, and its live-action counterpart, melted away. Dive in, there’s no room for disappointment here.

In the BL cosmos, it's almost scripted for two matching boys to find their narrative arc together. Yet, reality scripts a different, more complex drama where fate and attraction are merely the opening act, setting stage for a play of courage and cognizance. The celebration of romance, regardless of age, echoes through the story, especially poignant among childhood buddies embarking on uncharted emotional terrains.

The narrative delicately explores the dance of hesitation spun from long-held familiarity, where the fear of confession could cue a bitter end, and the quiet guarding of hearts against potential heartache takes center stage, more so when a third character enters the plot. Yamato’s emotional whirl finds a universal echo, his affection for Kakeru a tender tune played cautiously, fearing an overwhelmed audience in Kakeru.

The plot truly sparkles when it unveils Kakeru’s silent yet profound regard for Yamato, unknowingly casting him in a leading role in his life's script. Much like their classmate Hosaka Yui, we, the audience, find ourselves on the edge of our seats, almost urging the script along towards their destined union. Hosaka, an unsolicited mentor, channels our chorus of encouragement to Yamato, lending a vibrant note to the narrative.

This youthful love melody, flowing with the serene grace akin to the waters beneath Kyoto's Togetsukyo Bridge, paints a calm yet poignant picture of adolescent love. Anxiously awaiting its Netflix debut, for a broader audience to bask in its soft, tender narrative.

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Completed
Downfall
1 people found this review helpful
Nov 22, 2023
Completed 0
Overall 8.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 7.0
Rewatch Value 8.0
This review may contain spoilers

Downfall: A Poignant Exploration of Art, Alienation, and Redemption

Naoto Takenaka’s “Downfall” (2023) is a compelling narrative that delves deep into the turbulent life of Kaoru Fukazawa, a manga artist grappling with the end of his long-running series and the subsequent emotional and creative void. The film’s portrayal of Fukazawa’s journey from fame to obscurity and back is not just a story about the struggles of a creative mind, but also a reflection on the complexities of human relationships and self-perception.

The opening scenes set the tone, depicting Fukazawa’s college days and a relationship with a quirky girlfriend, characterized by her cat-like eyes and rare smiles. This relationship, though short-lived, casts a long shadow over Fukazawa’s life, symbolizing his obsessive devotion to his art at the expense of personal connections.

The crux of the film lies in Fukazawa’s relationship with his wife, Nozomi, a dedicated manga editor. Their marriage, devoid of children and strained by their respective careers, reflects the dilemmas faced by many modern couples juggling professional aspirations and personal lives. Fukazawa’s sense of abandonment and frustration culminate in a harrowing scene where he confronts Nozomi with a mix of accusation and desperation, exposing the raw nerve of their failing marriage.

A significant portion of the film is dedicated to Fukazawa’s interactions with various women, particularly those in the escort world. These encounters, especially with a woman who possesses a maternal gentleness, and another, a free-spirited university student with cat-like eyes, represent his search for emotional solace and inspiration. These relationships, however superficial, are portrayed with a sensitivity that underscores Fukazawa’s deep-seated loneliness and quest for redemption.

The film reaches its emotional climax during a book-signing event where Fukazawa is confronted by a long-time female fan. Her words, praising the kindness and sincerity she perceives in his work, trigger a profound reaction in Fukazawa, who still considers himself a “monster,” as labeled by his college girlfriend. This poignant moment, marked by Fukazawa’s outburst, “You know nothing,” is a powerful testament to the internal conflict between self-perception and external validation.

“Downfall” stands out for its nuanced character development and the exploration of themes like artistic integrity, emotional isolation, and the search for meaning in a transient world. Takenaka’s direction is both subtle and impactful, weaving a narrative that is as much about the art of manga as it is about the art of living. The performances are uniformly excellent, with Takumi Saito delivering a compelling portrayal of Fukazawa, capturing the character’s vulnerability and complexity.

In conclusion, “Downfall” is a beautifully crafted film that resonates with anyone who has ever grappled with the dichotomies of success and failure, connection and isolation, perception and reality. It is a poignant reminder of the complexities of the human condition, making it a must-watch for not only fans of Japanese cinema but for all who appreciate deeply human stories.

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Ongoing 11/12
A Boss and a Babe
2 people found this review helpful
May 12, 2023
11 of 12 episodes seen
Ongoing 0
Overall 6.0
Story 5.0
Acting/Cast 6.0
Music 4.0
Rewatch Value 1.0

Delightfully shallow

"A Boss and A Babe" is a lighthearted office rom-com that serves as a perfect guilty pleasure for those seeking a breezy escape from reality. With its irresistibly charming male lead, Force, the show offers a visual feast for the eyes, while the storyline playfully dances around conventional office romance tropes. While it is not a show to be dissected for deeper meaning or life lessons, it does provide a humorous glimpse into the quirks and pitfalls of miscommunication that occasionally border on the toxic. Best enjoyed with a generous pinch of salt and a willingness to embrace its frothy frivolity, "A Boss and A Babe" will have you grinning as you indulge in its unapologetic simplicity.

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Ongoing 9/10
Stay by My Side
1 people found this review helpful
Aug 26, 2023
9 of 10 episodes seen
Ongoing 0
Overall 7.0
Story 7.5
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 7.0
Rewatch Value 7.0
This review may contain spoilers

Stay By My Side" Review: Taiwan's BL Drama Shines Once Again

🚨 **Spoiler Alert** 🚨

When it comes to the pulsating world of Asian BL drama, Taiwan has always held a distinguished spot. From the inception of the famed *HiStory* series, Taiwan has showcased its unique flair. And now, with **"Stay By My Side,"** produced by the illustrious Sanlih E-Television, traditional Taiwanese TV has boldly stepped into the BL arena — and what an entry it is!

Meet Gu Buxia, a student whose academic prowess may be questionable but whose charm is undeniable. Raised amidst Taoist temples, this character has a quirky fear: ghosts. Yet, it's his childlike innocence, devoid of any guile, that captivates the enigmatic transfer student, Jiang Chi. As Jiang eloquently puts it, "I'm smitten with the very essence of you."

The show beautifully weaves quintessential Taiwanese elements — Taoist temples, the traditional birthday dish of pig's trotter noodles, and colloquialisms that might get lost in translation. Yet, fret not international viewers! The endearing dynamics between our leads will keep you grinning from ear to ear, language barriers be damned.

And here's the twist: who knew that the ultimate way to drown out pesky ghostly whispers was by diving deep into a same-sex romance, complete with passionate embraces? While the series might shy away from any risqué sequences, there's no shortage of heart-throbbing kisses between our leads.

In conclusion, **"Stay By My Side"** is more than just a BL drama. It's a vibrant tapestry of Taiwanese charm and culture. It promises not just romance, but depth, humor, and a cultural immersion. Tune in, and let yourself be whisked away by its youthful zest and allure!

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Ongoing 3/10
Tengu's Kitchen
11 people found this review helpful
Nov 21, 2023
3 of 10 episodes seen
Ongoing 0
Overall 8.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 7.5
Rewatch Value 8.0
This review may contain spoilers

Return to Nature: A Gem Uncovered in Japanese Countryside Drama

I was initially hesitant to dive into this Japanese drama, primarily due to my lack of interest in Tengu lore. Despite being a fan of Shiono Akihisa’s performances in BL, I just couldn’t find the motivation to start watching.

However, during the Thanksgiving holiday, I gave in and watched the first three episodes, only to realize I was on the brink of missing out on something truly special. This show is more than just a drama; it’s an ode to the beauty of Japan’s rural forests and a manifestation of the modern longing for a simpler, rural life.

The story revolves around On, born and raised in North America, who at 14 learns he is a descendant of the Tengu. Tradition dictates he must spend a year in seclusion in the Japanese countryside. This trip also marks On’s first encounter with his brother, Motoi, who had returned to Japan before On’s birth.

Initially reluctant to leave his comfortable modern life, On discovers in the Japanese countryside that he can understand the language of dogs, an ability hinted at by his name. It’s a Tengu lineage trait that all descendants can communicate with animals at 14, but this fades away as they turn 15. However, Motoi is an exception; not only does he retain his animal communication skills into adulthood, but he also grows wings.

Motoi’s love for rural life, his passion for food, and his back-to-nature approach deeply influence On, prompting reflection in those of us entrenched in modern urban civilization.

This drama beautifully portrays the contrast between modernity and traditional rural life, interspersed with mystical elements of Tengu folklore. It’s a heartwarming story about family, self-discovery, and the universal search for a connection to our roots. A true gem that speaks to the soul, urging us to find beauty and peace in the simplicity of nature.

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Boys in Love
0 people found this review helpful
Jul 6, 2025
12 of 12 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 8.5
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 9.0

Wholesome, Not Hollow: Why Boys in Love is the Soft Escape We Need

Boys in Love is so sweet it might just give your therapist a cavity. This school-set BL series foregoes typical angst for pure affection, weaving three parallel love stories founded on mutual respect, gentle misunderstandings, and the kind of healthy communication most of us only dreamed of at 16. There’s no blackmail, no power imbalances, and certainly no dramatic goodbyes in the pouring rain. It almost feels too good to be true.

Yet, it undeniably works.

The series centers on a close-knit group of students, along with an endearingly awkward pair of teachers, as they navigate the complexities of school life, friendship, and first love. Each central pairing offers a distinct emotional journey: a shy genius finds connection with his rebellious student, a hopeless romantic meets his enigmatic new classmate, and a curmudgeonly veteran teacher shares his office with a bright, new colleague. The chemistry isn't flashy, but it’s deeply authentic, forged through shared glances, subtle character development, and quiet acts of care.

What truly elevates Boys in Love isn't a shocking twist or a dark subplot; it’s the series’ profound conviction that kindness is, in itself, compelling. Even when life delivers its inevitable messiness—divorcing parents, academic stress, diverging future plans—love can remain a steadfast anchor. It’s the comfortable, familiar embrace of a favorite hoodie in BL form.

Is it overly idealistic? Perhaps. But in a genre often drawn to toxic tropes and manufactured drama, Boys in Love stands out for its refreshing earnestness. It doesn't penalize tenderness; it celebrates emotional honesty. In a world that often feels overwhelmingly loud and cynical, this quiet, gentle storytelling isn’t merely desired—it’s essential.

In the end, Boys in Love isn’t just about falling in love—it’s about creating the kind of world where love has the space to grow gently, without fear.

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