Genius and Calculated Series
I have nothing but admiration and awe for this series. The production is absolutely insane—can you believe it was filmed using a phone? The acting is phenomenal; the casting is flawless, and every actor delivers with such precision, from their nuances to their micro-expressions.I also love how the story unfolds without spoon-feeding the audience. It trusts us to understand each of the Gelboys characters, their complexity, and their deeply human teenage struggles. The show captures the reality of being a teenager—the impulsive decisions, the lack of long-term thinking, and the way we act purely based on how we feel in the moment. The characters are beautifully flawed, making them feel real and relatable.
Another thing I admire is how seamlessly they incorporate T-pop culture into the narrative. The music is incredible—my personal favorites so far are 9PM by Pide and Noid-Ah by Leon. I’m really into slow and melancholic songs, so these two resonate with me the most. But honestly, every OST released so far perfectly fits the characters and their emotions.
At first glance, Gelboys may seem like a lighthearted and fun story, but it’s so much more than that. It delivers valuable lessons and allows us to reflect on our own teenage years. It makes us realize how we used to think and act at their age—perhaps minus the super colorful aesthetic, but the thought processes and decisions feel very familiar.
I also love how Siam is not just a backdrop but an integral part of the story. The setting isn't just there for aesthetics—it plays a role in shaping the characters, their experiences, and the way they navigate their lives. The show captures the essence of its culture and environment, making it feel immersive and authentic rather than just a pretty location.
Lastly, I am absolutely in love with Gelboys’ cinematography. Every frame tells a story. The wide shots are brilliantly placed, subtly conveying shifts in emotions and character development. You can feel when a character is lonely, longing for something, or going through a moment of change—all without words, just through the visuals. That, to me, is pure genius.
Was this review helpful to you?
