2022 BL Series and Movies List

Eternal Yesterday

• Story A+
• Romance A
• Acting A+
• Ending A+
• Style A
• Grade 99

Eternal Yesterday is a Japanese BL series about two high school students who experience a heartbreaking tragedy. The protagonist used to be a loner until his cheerful classmate befriends him. Despite their opposite personalities, they form a close bond and cultivate a secret attraction. On an ordinary morning, they are walking to school. A devastating event suddenly occurs, changing their lives forever.

Eternal Yesterday is such an epic BL drama. The powerful story, the poignant romance, and the profound messages still resonate vividly in my thoughts. Each heartbreaking episode makes me want to cry and wish for a miracle. Yet, this sophisticated BL drama inspires various emotions that mix with sorrow. I may feel enthralled with a romantic scene, surprised by a plot twist, or amused by a playful joke. Often, the gentle humour causes me to laugh through my tears. Eternal Yesterday has outclassed many dramas in this genre, becoming one of my all-time favourites.

My School President

• Story A-
• Romance A
• Acting A
• Ending A+
• Style A+
• Grade 95

My School President is a Thai BL series about an enchanting teenage love story. The protagonist is an aspiring musician who forms a high school band with his friends. He clashes with the student council president, who threatens to cancel their extracurricular activities. Despite initial hostility, the relationship takes a friendlier turn. Beneath his bravado, the president may not be as intimidating as he seems.

My School President highlights both actors' best qualities with a cheerful and energetic love story. This BL drama explores each stage of courtship colourfully. During the plot's climaxes, the leads come close to giving confessions or kisses. The uncertainty of the outcomes will leave you with rapt anticipation. Beyond the captivating romance, My School President features numerous non-romantic subplots. The multifaceted story delves into meaningful themes about family, friendship, and sexuality.

The Eclipse

• Story A+
• Romance A
• Acting B+
• Ending A
• Style A
• Grade 94

The Eclipse is a Thai BL series about an uprising at an all-boys school. As the president of the prefects club, the main character is used to following the rules. He feels disturbed by the recent protests and strange phenomena happening around campus. The protagonist believes the new transfer student is responsible for causing these disruptions. He investigates the rebellious classmate, hoping to uncover his mysterious intentions.

I appreciate the fascinating themes, clever symbolism, and positive messages expressed in The Eclipse. The series combines its intelligent concepts with a vibrant love story. The leads have a memorable personality clash. Sparks fly between them in every exchange, from the sassy banter to the flirtatious advances. Their relationship develops compellingly as the characters grow and understand each other better. Both protagonists go on emotional journeys, confronting their vulnerabilities and overcoming trauma together.

Semantic Error

• Story A-
• Romance A
• Acting A+
• Ending A-
• Style A
• Grade 94

Semantic Error is a Korean BL series about two feuding university students. A serious programmer and a rebellious artist clash over a school project. Their animosity keeps escalating to new extremes, defined by petty pranks and feisty arguments. When their vendetta starts to dissolve, the characters discover their feelings for each other are a lot more complicated.

I had so much fun watching Semantic Error. This three-hour series flies by at incredible speed because I'm totally immersed in the story. The best part is the sassy dynamic between the leads, polar opposites in every way. They frequently clash over their personality differences, but the conflict entertains me. Their arguments are cheeky, their pranks are imaginative, and their reactions are unpredictable. There's an electrifying buzz when these characters interact. I'm always excited about what they'll say or do next.

To My Star 2

• Story A
• Romance B+
• Acting A-
• Ending A
• Style B+
• Grade 91

To My Star 2: Our Untold Stories is the second season of the Korean BL series, To My Star. This sequel continues the romance between a famous actor and an ordinary chef. However, the couple is no longer together at the beginning of the story. A year after their heartbreaking separation, the devastated protagonist seeks answers from his missing ex-boyfriend.

The series peaks around the middle with a stretch of impactful episodes. It finds an exquisite balance in introspective and interpersonal drama, mixed with a tearjerker romance and pulsating sexual tension. The relationship angst in To My Star 2 may be polarizing. Some BL fans won't respond well to the heartache and hostility, especially compared to the coziness of Season 1. The leads constantly antagonize each other, and even their sweet flashbacks have a melancholic tinge. However, I enjoy this juicy tension in their volatile dynamic, which escalates memorably.

More Than Words

• Story A
• Romance B
• Acting A-
• Ending A
• Style A
• Grade 90

More Than Words is a Japanese drama about three best friends in a love triangle over the years. The aromantic female protagonist befriends a popular classmate, even though she isn't interested in dating him. Later, they welcome a gay coworker to their social circle. The trio gets along splendidly, forming a close bond from high school to adulthood. Yet, their relationship reaches an emotional turning point that threatens to drive them apart.

Beyond the profound themes, More Than Words is a brilliant drama because of its subtlety. It relies on understated subtext and enigmatic expressions to convey its storytelling. The plot drops hints instead of stating the obvious, so you must speculate carefully and ponder the relationship dynamics. This introspective series inspires you to put yourself in each character's mindset. What are they thinking? How are they feeling? The title, More Than Words, refers to the unspoken sentiments that viewers can only understand through empathy.

The Warp Effect

• Story A
• Romance B-
• Acting A
• Ending A
• Style A-
• Grade 90

The Warp Effect is a Thai comedy series with a BL subplot. The main character is an uncool high school student who causes drunken chaos at a party. After regaining consciousness, the protagonist discovers he has travelled to the future. His adult life is drastically different. All his teenage best friends have become his enemies. Using a set of photos as clues, he must decipher what happened and find a way to return to his original timeline.

Beyond its open-mindedness, The Warp Effect is incredibly entertaining. The story begins as a bubbly high school comedy, but the first episode ends with a surprise twist. After transporting to the future, the protagonist embarks on a zany adventure filled with humour, drama, and raunchy hijinks. Each episode mixes goofy jokes with savvy messages, so you can laugh and learn simultaneously. In addition, the series has an energetic ensemble cast who exchange hilarious interactions. I love the quirky characters with colourful personalities and delightful friendships.

Plus & Minus

• Story B
• Romance A+
• Acting B+
• Ending A-
• Style A+
• Grade 89

Plus & Minus is a Taiwanese BL series about the romance between two childhood friends. The main characters have been best friends for over twenty years. Now, they work as colleagues in the same law firm. Despite their close brotherly bond, this friendship never escalated affectionately until now.

I adore the relationship dynamic between the leads. Plus & Minus fulfills my favourite BL trope, featuring a protagonist with a secret crush on his best friend. The characters have an exciting rapport filled with tension, intrigue, and desire. I was riveted by the emotional drama in the early episodes. Furthermore, the charming protagonists have fun personalities. Their flirting is lighthearted, their quips are amusing, and their attraction feels palpable. Every interaction leaves me gushing and blushing.

Triage

• Story A+
• Romance B+
• Acting A
• Ending C+
• Style B+
• Grade 88

Triage is a Thai BL series with the main character stuck inside a time loop. The protagonist is an emergency room doctor who repeats the same timeline after failing to save a patient's life. He must revisit the past and change history to stop the tragedy from happening. The two leads go on an extraordinary adventure with time manipulation, mystery investigation, and epic romance.

Despite the fast-paced narrative, Triage does its best to maintain clarity, coherence, and continuity. It simplifies complicated concepts, reiterates important messages, and focuses on the main characters without straying off track into diversions. The complex series suffers from occasional plot holes, which emerge more frequently towards the end. While the logic doesn't always hold up under scrutiny, Triage still makes a positive impression with its boundless creativity. The bottom line is you can forgive a few hiccups amid a consistently entertaining narrative.

My Only 12%

• Story A-
• Romance B
• Acting A+
• Ending B-
• Style B+
• Grade 86

My Only 12% is a Thai BL series that follows two childhood best friends from high school to university. The main characters are neighbours who grew up together and developed a close bond. Yet, their relationship becomes complicated as romantic feelings emerge. The protagonist feels tormented about his secret crush, which he doesn't believe will be reciprocated.

Enjoying My Only 12% requires patience. This lengthy series takes time to develop the plot and focuses on platonic interactions, so don't expect BL content for a while. The main characters may seem close and cuddle in bed, but they are only best friends. The lead struggles with his secret crush, a sympathetic storyline that makes the early episodes compelling. My Only 12% explores various aspects of unrequited love, from hopeless confusion to tormented longing. It portrays a deep, meaningful coming-of-age journey.

Vice Versa

• Story B
• Romance A+
• Acting B
• Ending B
• Style A+
• Grade 86

Vice Versa is a Thai BL series about a love story in a parallel universe. After life-threatening encounters, the protagonists regain consciousness to discover they have been magically transported to another dimension. Furthermore, they swapped bodies with two strangers and took over their identities. The main characters must work together, navigate this strange world, and find a way home.

Vice Versa excels in writing romantic fluff. That sounds like an insult, but it's not. I'm impressed by its ability to produce warm, vibrant BL content, an underrated skill that few dramas can master. All the best scenes are funny and quirky exchanges that highlight the couple's bond. The series is primarily sweet. Yet, it can also portray sensitive, sassy, or steamy encounters, showing remarkable versatility. Backed by a playful sense of humour, Vice Versa caters to my soft spot for cute and lighthearted love stories.

Sasaki and Miyano

• Story B
• Romance B+
• Visuals B+
• Ending A
• Style A-
• Grade 86

Sasaki and Miyano is a BL anime series about the tender love story between two high school students. The main character is a BL fanatic who befriends an upperclassman, introducing him to the world of Boys Love manga. As they bond over their mutual interest, their relationship develops from a casual friendship to a blossoming attraction.

Sasaki and Miyano is an introspective series. It constantly explores the characters' inner thoughts, feelings, desires, and insecurities. This storytelling technique reminds me of a gay YA novel, often narrated by a sensitive teen protagonist. It gives similar vibes to classics like Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe. Sasaki and Miyano has the same special spark, highlighting the precious journey between adolescence and adulthood. Like the best YA books, this anime exudes heartfelt sincerity, mellow energy, and tender messages about love. 

Ai Long Nhai

• Story B-
• Romance A+
• Acting B
• Ending B+
• Style B-
• Grade 86

Ai Long Nhai is a lighthearted Thai BL series about two university friends and their campus romance. The protagonist used to be a playboy until he transferred to a new school. He develops feelings for an adorable classmate, who charms him with his cute appearance and quirky personality. However, his love interest seems oblivious and treats their relationship platonically. The line between friendship and romance blurs as they grow closer.

Also known as the unofficial prequel to Tonhon Chonlatee, Ai Long Nhai contains a similar bubbly charm as the original. I'm entertained by the stupidly amusing jokes, annoyingly endearing characters, and their delightfully spicy romance. Despite the flimsy plots and irrelevant filler, this series has captured that exquisite BL magic. The charming couple shares an energetic rapport with many fun, flirty interactions.

Egoist

• Story B
• Romance B
• Acting A+
• Ending B
• Style B
• Grade 85

Egoist is a Japanese BL movie about a couple who recently met and started dating. However, they face financial troubles. While the main character can afford luxury brands, his partner struggles to make a decent income to support his mother. Despite the expensive gifts, their relationship becomes strained. As the protagonist examines the situation, he discovers a shocking secret about his boyfriend.

Early on, Egoist makes a bold impression because of its explicit sexual encounters. Both leads deserve kudos for their uninhibited approach to the erotic scenes, which are gutsy and glorious. As their relationship develops, the movie shifts its focus and highlights a heartfelt connection. Beyond having sex, the couple settles comfortably into each other's lives. Egoist paints a multifaceted romance, acknowledging the importance of both physical and emotional intimacy.

Love Bill

• Story B-
• Romance A
• Acting A
• Ending C+
• Style C+
• Grade 85

Love Bill is a Vietnamese BL series about a runaway teenager and his older roommate. After clashing with his family, the rebellious protagonist deserts home with nowhere to go. An aspiring screenwriter allows the youth to live at his house as a renter. Although their relationship begins rockily, they build an intimate bond. As romantic feelings develop, they struggle with the age gap, class differences, and confusion over their sexuality.

Love Bill goes overboard with the cliched melodrama. The plot is driven by contrived events, exaggerated reactions, and needless confrontations. Despite the criticisms, the positives outweigh the negatives by a large margin. This poignant love story is packed with emotional depth, lively dialogue, and juicy sexual tension. The memorable couple gets my heart thumping with fierce excitement. Both talented stars portray their comedic and dramatic encounters phenomenally. Their colourful relationship dynamic is brimming with charisma, humour, and personality.

180 Degree Longitude Passes Through Us

• Story A
• Romance D-
• Acting A
• Ending A+
• Style B+
• Grade 84

180 Degree Longitude Passes Through Us is a Thai BL series about trauma and family melodrama. The protagonist and his mom have depended on each other since his dad's untimely death. Recently, they encountered an old family friend who shared a fascinating history with his parents. The main character delves into secret scandals, emotional conflicts, and unspeakable truths about who his father used to be.

180 Degree Longitude Passes Through Us relies heavily on dialogue to convey the plot, resembling a stage play. Thankfully, many exchanges are supported by sharp writing and strong acting. Each actor delivers the lines heartily, maintaining a snappy rapport. A few episodes suffer from too much talking. I want to replace these lengthy conversations about the past with actual flashbacks that portray the events. At times, the discourse feels pretentious. 180 Degree Longitude Passes Through Us is intelligent, but it shows a flair for the grandiose.

Senpai, This Can't Be Love!

• Story B+
• Romance B
• Acting B+
• Ending B+
• Style B
• Grade 84

Senpai, This Can't Be Love! is a Japanese BL series about a cute and quirky workplace romance. The protagonist is a shy new employee at a 3D design agency. He has a secret crush on an older colleague, who mentors him in the office. As the two leads flirt coyly, they must navigate their unspoken feelings for each other.

This series doesn't have a complex plot. It follows a linear narrative about two office employees with a blossoming attraction. Senpai, This Can't Be Love compensates for its simplicity with a lot of silliness. It derives humour from putting the two ordinary leads in eccentric scenarios with exaggerated reactions and heightened ridiculousness. I find the comedic moments charming and genuinely funny. Also, the cozy romance between the leads is endearing. I enjoy their sweet exchanges, shy flirting, and smooth rapport.

DNA Says I Love You

• Story A-
• Romance B-
• Acting A
• Ending C+
• Style A+
• Grade 83

DNA Says I Love You is a unique Taiwanese BL series with a groundbreaking concept. However, the story begins ordinarily as a boy-meets-boy romance. The main character befriends a mysterious stranger, who seems sweet, shares similar interests, and gets along with him. As their relationship develops, his new acquaintance struggles to maintain a complex secret.

The story explores a unique topic, maybe the first of its kind for this genre. This series is tricky to review without disclosing the most crucial detail about its intriguing plot. I'll be vague, but it examines the confusion and anxiety about your identity. The protagonist struggles with his personal journey. His intelligent storyline ties to LGBTQI experiences, capturing the emotional dissonance of many in this community. DNA Says I Love You taps into everybody's insecurities, the part of ourselves that might not comprehend why we're born differently.

Cherry Magic! The Movie

• Story B
• Romance B
• Acting B
• Ending A-
• Style B+
• Grade 82

Cherry Magic! The Movie is the film sequel to the Japanese BL series Cherry Magic. This movie continues after the events of the original story. The protagonist is happily in love, although he can still read his boyfriend's mind when they touch. Despite their blissful relationship, a sudden job relocation means he must move away for a long time. Furthermore, coming out to their families weighs heavily on their minds.

Although the Cherry Magic movie may be an inferior sequel, the story is still enchanting in many ways. The protagonists are sweethearts with genuine personalities. They make a wholesome couple who gets along adorably, goes on cute dates, and gives each other positive reinforcement. The surreal events didn't always feel believable in the original series. In contrast, this movie is down-to-earth. It tones down the quirky scenarios to make room for authentic relationship drama. The film highlights a healthy couple who cherish and respect each other.

Candy Color Paradox

• Story B+
• Romance B
• Acting B-
• Ending B+
• Style B+
• Grade 82

Candy Color Paradox is a Japanese BL series about two tabloid journalists. The protagonist is an investigative reporter for a magazine. One day, his boss assigns him to collaborate with a coworker on a new case. These colleagues don't get along due to their different personalities. Yet, they make a compatible team while uncovering the truth behind each story. As their relationship improves, the former adversaries develop an unlikely bond.

The series has created two memorable main characters with multifaceted personalities. These polar opposites complement each other's strengths and flaws, forming a compatible partnership. Their romance thrives with the right amount of comedy, enthusiasm, and sexiness. Like a sleazy tabloid, the series can be provocative. It exposes depraved behaviour like affairs or blackmail, so be prepared for offensive tropes. Also, some outrageous events seem totally preposterous. Candy Color Paradox operates on cheap sensationalism more than credible realism.

Roommates of Poongduck 304

• Story B
• Romance B-
• Acting B+
• Ending B+
• Style B-
• Grade 81

Roommates of Poongduck 304 is a Korean BL series about an office worker, his boss, and their odd living arrangement. The main character is a marketing intern who lives by himself. His friend slyly recruits a tenant and collects the rent money. Due to the misunderstanding, the two roommates clash and form an awful first impression. Later, the protagonist is mortified after learning his houseguest has become his new manager at work.

Initially, I wasn't fond of the relationship dynamics between the leads. The early episodes made me uncomfortable because the protagonist mistreated his love interest out of a petty grudge. I don't like seeing this rich, arrogant guy enter a company and immediately threaten somebody's career. Over time, I warmed up to the adorable couple in Roommates of Poongduck 304. The leads form a cozy bond that feels surprisingly sweet, yet their interactions still possess a touch of humour. All their relationship scenes are charming and comfortable.

Kabe Koji

• Story A
• Romance C
• Acting B
• Ending B
• Style A-
• Grade 81

Kabe Koji is a Japanese BL comedy series about a doujinshi artist. The protagonist is famous for drawing an adult manga with steamy characters. Surprisingly, one of his biggest fans is a celebrity idol from an up-and-coming boy band. The two leads used to know each other in high school. An unlikely bond forms as they reconnect, leading to hilarious hijinks, warm camaraderie, and emotional journeys.

Impressively, Kabe Koji pairs its upbeat comedy with meaningful plots and sentimental messages. This thoughtfully written story explores an emotional journey as the main character battles personal demons. The series highlights an artist's struggles with creative slumps and declining popularity. On a deeper level, it examines philosophical themes about pursuing your passions and preserving your individuality. Although a few moments are cheesy, I respond positively to the schmaltziness in Kabe Koji.

You're My Sky

• Story B+
• Romance A-
• Acting C
• Ending B
• Style A
• Grade 81

You're My Sky is a Thai BL sports drama. The main character is a motivated university student who wants to revive his school's ailing basketball team. He encourages his childhood friend to join the squad and pursue his dreams of becoming an athlete. The pair rekindles their close bond as they strive for the championship title.

After the premiere, I lacked the enthusiasm to continue watching the rest of the series. Thankfully, You're My Sky gains momentum once it moves the storylines in intriguing directions. There's more BL content than previously, as the couples spend time together and heat up their romances. You're My Sky comes to life with revitalized energy, exciting me with an eventful narrative that improves steadily. It might have taken a while for the story to warm up, but I was fully immersed in the gripping drama to the end.

Choco Milk Shake

• Story B
• Romance B-
• Acting B+
• Ending B
• Style B+
• Grade 80

Choco Milk Shake is a Korean fantasy BL series about a pet owner whose animals transform into humanoid companions. The main character owns a dog and a cat. One day, they suddenly appear as humans. Despite his shock and confusion, the protagonist adjusts to a cozy lifestyle with his new roommates. They bond, create memories, and develop feelings that go beyond friendship.

This gentle series exudes cozy warmth, like a comfort blanket or a cup of hot cocoa. You can sit back, relax, and smile at the cute, casual slice-of-life drama. Choco Milk Shake is a delightful treat for fans who want a delicate and enchanting BL romance. Beneath its bubbliness, you may notice faint traces of melancholy building in the narrative. Although barely detectable at first, the simmering emotions grow more prominent toward the end. The beauty of Choco Milk Shake lies in its subtle transition from sweetness to sadness.

My Tooth Your Love

• Story C+
• Romance A-
• Acting B
• Ending B-
• Style A
• Grade 80

My Tooth Your Love is a Taiwanese BL series about a dentist, his patient, and their romance. The main character suffers from a toothache, but he'd rather endure the pain than seek help. When the protagonist finally visits the clinic, he causes trouble and clashes with his dentist. Despite the rocky first impression, they overcome their differences and befriend each other. As their friendship develops, they must figure out their budding feelings.

The sloppy writing is the weakest aspect of My Tooth Your Love. It suffers from clunky storylines, cheesy cliches, and contrived conflicts. I also have mixed feelings about the over-the-top antics in the ending. Regardless, I can ignore the various flaws and still enjoy the series. Let's just be honest and admit that I'm not watching this BL drama for the plot. My Tooth Your Love is appealing because it features an attractive cast, vibrant chemistry, and adorable interactions. My main pleasure comes from seeing the hot guys flirt cutely with each other. The actual narrative is an afterthought.

Something in My Room

• Story A-
• Romance B
• Acting B-
• Ending C+
• Style B
• Grade 80

Something in My Room is a Thai supernatural BL series about a haunted house. The main character and his mom move into a new property, unaware there is a cheeky ghost trying to catch their attention. Once the protagonist gains clairvoyant vision, he befriends the spirit in his room. They form a profound bond while searching for the phantom's memories in the living world.

There's an undercurrent of wistful melancholy throughout Something in My Room. Each character struggles quietly with sorrow, trauma, and uncertainty. However, their journeys aren't just packed with doom and gloom. This series uses a sweet, gentle romance to maintain a cozy atmosphere. Also, it injects quirkiness at the appropriate moments to lighten the mood and soften the heavy topics. You won't find Something in My Room depressing to watch, although it feels beautifully poignant at times.

Cutie Pie

• Story C+
• Romance A-
• Acting B-
• Ending C+
• Style A+
• Grade 78

Cutie Pie is a Thai BL series about two childhood friends and their arranged marriage. For many years, the protagonist's grandfather wanted him to marry the son of a close family acquaintance. The main characters have gotten engaged and intend to fulfill their obligations. However, many scandalous secrets and hidden tensions threaten to tear apart their precarious relationship.

This series has an unusual premise because most people wouldn't associate arranged marriages and gay couples together. My first reaction is that Cutie Pie takes a plot meant for two heterosexual leads and forces it onto a BL narrative. However, I changed my mind and learned to appreciate its decisive stance on gay marriage. Unfortunately, I'm disturbed by the uncomfortable power dynamics in this toxic romance. The protagonist restricts his partner's autonomy by imposing constant surveillance, financial control, and intrusive boundaries in their living arrangement.

Love Mechanics

• Story D-
• Romance B+
• Acting B+
• Ending A
• Style A
• Grade 78

Love Mechanics is a Thai BL series about two engineering students and their turbulent romance. Triggered by a failed love confession, the heartbroken protagonist has a drunken one-night stand with a stranger at a bar. He feels scandalized by their encounter, especially after discovering his sex partner already has a girlfriend. As the characters meet again on campus, they must battle their confusion, remorse, and secret desire for each other.

Although Love Mechanics glorifies a problematic couple, the tacky relationship drama is morbidly entertaining. I derive guilty pleasure from mocking these trashy characters and laughing at their messy antics. When they aren't feuding, the leads delight me with plenty of juicy BL moments. They maintain a fun, vibrant dynamic with playful banter, cute flirting, and constant physical affection. Their comfortable on-screen chemistry elevates each scene, producing sparks that ignite the intimate romance.

Sky in Your Heart

• Story B-
• Romance B
• Acting A-
• Ending D
• Style B+
• Grade 77

Sky in Your Heart is the spin-off of the Thai BL series Star in My Mind. The main character is a doctor who must do community service after his drunken car accident. The protagonist arrives at a rural village, where he clashes with a volunteer teacher over a lousy first impression. As they work past the early misunderstandings, the leads form a bond despite their personality differences.

Sky in Your Heart is delightful to watch with a healthy mix of drama, comedy, and romance. Although it won't win points for originality, the storyline is engaging. The early episodes highlight topics about culture shock, personality clashes, and moving on after a heartbreak. The series maintains a playful and easygoing vibe while exploring these thoughtful topics. Thankfully, the charming characters, amusing scenarios, and mischievous humour keep the mood lighthearted. 

Till the World Ends

• Story B+
• Romance C-
• Acting B
• Ending B
• Style B
• Grade 77

Till the World Ends is a Thai BL dystopian series about the final days before Earth's destruction. There have been news reports about the moon striking the world. Suddenly, the government announces everyone should retreat to the nearest bunker. The protagonist gets entangled in unexpected drama, causing him to miss the evacuation deadline. He teams up with another stranded survivor as they confront the apocalypse. 

I love the epic plot in Till the World Ends. The protagonists face doom, danger, and destruction at every turn. From violent fights to grisly deaths, the constant action keeps me on edge about what happens next. Yet, the most gripping moments often come from the characters' emotional turmoil. Their quiet introspection resonates as powerfully as the intense sequences. However, the main character does something reckless at the end of the first episode. No matter how much the story tries to redeem him, his shocking actions make him an unviable love interest.

21 Days Theory

• Story B-
• Romance B-
• Acting B
• Ending B-
• Style B-
• Grade 76

21 Days Theory is a Thai BL series about a high school romance that develops over three weeks. The main character meets a cheeky older student who challenges him to an unconventional competition. He must convince a famous girl to take him on a date over the next twenty-one days. Although their relationship begins as a rivalry, the two leads become closer as they get to know each other better.

Once the story gets into a comfortable groove, 21 Days Theory gains steady momentum after a rocky start. The series shines as a sweet teenage romance with plenty of breezy banter and flirty encounters. Each scene highlights the easygoing rapport between the leads. I enjoy watching their relationship develop as they become cozier. It feels rewarding when the couple flashes a warm smile or appear more relaxed around their love interests. 21 Days Theory conveys a budding schoolboy crush, and you'll believe these characters are growing fond of each other.

I Just Want to See You

• Story B-
• Romance C+
• Acting B+
• Ending B-
• Style B-
• Grade 76

I Just Want to See You is a Japanese BL series about a calm, gentle high school romance. The main characters are two childhood best friends about to enter their senior year, facing uncertainty over their futures. They have maintained a platonic relationship all these years. However, this dynamic will soon change in their final summer of adolescence together.

This series has a promising beginning. It introduces the main characters well, showcasing their distinct personalities with quirky and memorable scenes. Also, it emphasizes their camaraderie using cute flashbacks, funny exchanges, and a persuasive bond between the leads. You will feel comfortable watching the first two episodes, which progress the narrative at a smooth and delightful pace. Unfortunately, I Just Want to See You doesn't carry the positive momentum into its second half. The story and romance stall after a strong start.

Ocean Likes Me

• Story B-
• Romance B
• Acting B+
• Ending C-
• Style C+
• Grade 76

Ocean Likes Me is a Korean BL series about a restaurant by the beach. The main character relocates to a seaside community by himself and wants to open his own udon shop. He struggles to attract customers to his new business until a fateful encounter with a quirky free spirit. As they work together, the store and their relationship steadily gain momentum.

Not everybody shares my favourable opinion of Ocean Likes Me. Yes, I acknowledge the plot is often silly and inelegant. I can excuse the foolishness with a laugh, but others may not. Also, the final storyline seems too nonsensical. The ridiculous ending drags down the series, finishing on a weak note. Nevertheless, I'm tolerant of the flaws and even think some of the bad writing is amusing. If I'm the only one entertained by Ocean Likes Me, then so be it. I'll be the sole defender of this drama, which gets too much hate for conveying sweet, lighthearted BL fluff.

My Ride

• Story C
• Romance B
• Acting B
• Ending B-
• Style B
• Grade 75

My Ride is a Thai BL series about the love story between a doctor and a motorcycle taxi driver. The main characters bond over their similar personalities despite coming from different walks of life. A natural attraction forms between the two friends, but the doctor is already committed to his older boyfriend. However, his recent relationship troubles push him closer to the amiable driver with the dimpled smile.

I love My Ride when it focuses on the dreamy protagonists, who carry the series with their natural likability. Both have kind hearts, humble personalities, and sensitive temperaments, making it easy to root for them. The romance is appealing because of its purity, portraying two sweet-natured characters who fall in love. However, the single biggest issue is the horribly written love triangle, which almost breaks the story. The relationship drama drags on forever and dominates most of the narrative.

The Promise

• Story B-
• Romance C+
• Acting B+
• Ending C+
• Style B+
• Grade 75

The Promise is the 2022 prequel for the 2023 Thai BL series with the same title. The main characters are university roommates who have been best friends for a long time. Their close bond makes others speculate about their relationship, although both deny having romantic feelings. As sexual tension builds between them, the protagonists have a massive fallout. Years later, they reminisce about the broken friendship and hope to resolve their conflict.

The Promise delivers a stellar first episode that exceeds expectations. The series has created a riveting emotional arc in only thirty minutes, which is no easy feat. This early scenes introduce the characters, highlight their personalities, and tease a romantic spark. Perhaps the first episode sets the bar too high, but the follow-up pales by comparison. Despite the declining quality, the second episode still contains delicate moments that tug at my heartstrings. This BL drama's strong suit is that it can evoke emotional responses from the audience.

What Zabb Man!

• Story B-
• Romance B
• Acting B
• Ending C-
• Style B
• Grade 75

What Zabb Man! is a Thai BL series about a hotel restaurant. The protagonist is a talented cook from a working-class background. He gets recruited for a lucrative head chef job at a fancy hotel. However, he clashes with the arrogant CEO over an awful first impression. Their strained relationship dynamic improves as they work together and know each other better.

What Zabb Man hits the sweet spot, where every scene has a perfect mixture of flirtation, comedy, and excitement. Both couples engage me in the beginning. Sparks flew between the leads, who came from drastically different backgrounds and clashed over their fiery personalities. Likewise, the secondary pair thrives on a vibrant dynamic. While the first half of What Zabb Man might be surprisingly good, its last few episodes are awful. The storyteller introduces too many spinning plates and can't keep everything under control. The series deteriorates into a hot mess until the end.

Color Rush 2

• Story C+
• Romance B-
• Acting A
• Ending D+
• Style C+
• Grade 75

Color Rush 2 is the sequel of the Korean BL series Color Rush. The second season continues the story of a colourblind protagonist, seeking the whereabouts of his missing loved ones. He is joined by a new companion, as they work together to uncover the conspiracy behind a mysterious organization.

The Color Rush sequel is exceedingly plot-heavy, powered by complex theories and confusing conspiracies. I love the wild creativity behind this mystery thriller, even if the logic gets convoluted and isn't easy to follow. It wins points for imagination and innovation, deviating so much from the typical love story in the BL genre. However, the overambitious storylines aren't always executed smoothly. I laugh at the many outrageous events and unbelievable coincidences during the investigation. The wonky writing turns its elegant concepts into silly contrivances.

Ghost Host, Ghost House

• Story C
• Romance A-
• Acting C+
• Ending C
• Style A
• Grade 74

Ghost Host, Ghost House is a Thai supernatural BL series about a haunted residence. The main character has returned from overseas and moves in with his aunt's family. However, he doesn't know his relatives are ghostly spirits. The oblivious protagonist befriends a superstitious acquaintance as they uncover the truth behind their spooky surroundings.

Ghost Host, Ghost House packages its production stylishly with elegant visuals. It achieves a dreamy ambiance with the artistic use of colours, lighting & scene composition. Yet, the tasteful aesthetics can't make up for the unpolished plot. There are missed opportunities in the clumsily told story, not fulfilling the potential of its clever premise. The muddled narrative squanders what could've been a poignant tale about grief and loss. Nonetheless, Ghost Host, Ghost House is still a charming BL drama with casual moments of fun. I enjoy it more than I can actually justify.

Blueming

• Story C
• Romance B-
• Acting B
• Ending B-
• Style B+
• Grade 74

Blueming is a Korean BL series about two film school students with a rocky relationship. The protagonist has a terrible first impression of his popular classmate, who seems to belittle everything he does. He becomes wary of his new rival as tensions rise uncomfortably. During a heated confrontation, the two characters discover their perceptions of each other are very different. There might have been a misunderstanding from the start.

Blueming spends too long establishing the feud between the leads when that's the weakest part of their dynamic. Then, the storyteller dedicates too little time to depicting the friendship, a transition that feels sudden and underdeveloped. The romance also starts awkwardly, not receiving enough build-up. This couple wins me over eventually with sweet relationship moments and amorous encounters. They have a decent rapport, even if their uneven journey could be more well-crafted.

Minato's Laundromat

• Story B
• Romance D-
• Acting A-
• Ending B
• Style B+
• Grade 74

Minato's Laundromat is a Japanese BL series about a high school student's unrequited love. The teen protagonist has a crush on the local laundromat owner, who is in his late twenties. Yet, the older man feels uncomfortable about their age gap and turns down the relationship. Despite the rejection, the characters continue to spend time together as they struggle with their repressed feelings.

Led by a poised storyteller, Minato's Laundromat blends gentle humour, tender messages, and introspective characters into a thoughtfully crafted narrative. The series explores many vulnerable emotions. The leads constantly analyze their feelings as they contemplate between restraint and desire. Yet, this soothing story is undermined by a scandalous couple with an alarming age difference. Minato's Laundromat presents too many psychological barriers for me. I'm rooting against the leads instead of championing their love, the sign of an unsuccessful BL drama.

Happy Ending Romance

• Story C
• Romance C+
• Acting A-
• Ending C
• Style B
• Grade 73

Happy Ending Romance is a Korean BL series about a love triangle between two authors and a book publisher. The main character used to be a famous writer until he crossed a powerful enemy. Since then, his career and reputation have plummeted. He meets the owner of a small publishing house, who admires his talent and wants to release his next book. Yet, they face many setbacks, especially from the protagonist's meddling boyfriend.

Happy Ending Romance can be emotionally gripping at times. You want to root for the protagonist to overcome the terrible injustices and hold onto his dreams. However, the storyline becomes too annoying and frustrating over time. I grow tired of the prolonged melodrama, irritating conflicts, and incessant grief. It doesn't help that the characters keep having repetitive exchanges. Despite the aggravating narrative, the lead singlehandedly carries this bleak drama with his overpowering charm. He has one of the most exuberant smiles I've ever witnessed.

Coffee Melody

• Story B-
• Romance B-
• Acting C
• Ending B-
• Style B
• Grade 73

Coffee Melody is a Thai BL series about a cute, flirty romance in a coffee shop. The main character is a songwriter going through a creative slump. After visiting a café, he develops a crush on the friendly owner. As the protagonist falls in love, he finds the inspiration to make music again.

Contrary to what the title implies, the selling point of this series isn't the coffee or the music. Coffee Melody deals with surprisingly sophisticated storylines that highlight romance, career, friendship, and family. The protagonists and supporting characters are conflicted about love or work, which leads to intriguing dilemmas. The series shows moments of brilliance where it conveys meaningful life philosophies. Yet, the narrative lacks exhilarating highs. It never drums up enough enthusiasm to excite me about the next episode.

Never Let Me Go

• Story C-
• Romance B
• Acting B
• Ending C
• Style A
• Grade 72

Never Let Me Go is a Thai BL series about a wealthy teenager and his bodyguard. The protagonist is a hotel heir in his final year of high school. After surviving an assassination attempt, his family hires an undercover security guard to protect him on campus. The two main characters develop a bond despite coming from different walks of life. Yet, they struggle with their class disparity, power dynamics, and imminent danger around them.

Never Let Me Go dazzles with stylish visuals. The polished production enriches the story with a regal flair. In addition, the leads display an undeniable chemistry. They deliver juicy BL content with intimate kisses and passionate physical affection. However, I can't enjoy the artistry when the plot takes a preposterous nosedive. The last few episodes are powered by campy shenanigans and cartoonish villainy. Never Let Me Go is a botched melodrama that fumbles its sophisticated storylines and fails to achieve a sensible narrative.

About Youth

• Story C
• Romance B
• Acting B-
• Ending C
• Style A
• Grade 72

About Youth is a Taiwanese BL series about a teenage romance between two high school seniors. The main characters first meet on a rainy evening after experiencing emotional hardships. They reunite a year later, but only one of them remembers what happened that night. As the leads get acquainted, their newfound friendship develops into a mutual attraction.

This series portrays the two leads falling in love splendidly. Their first encounter on a rainy evening is a memorable way to introduce the couple, highlighting intertwined destinies. Although the romance begins serendipitously, the leads bond over warm, down-to-earth interactions. Their relationship stems from a genuine connection as the characters get along, spend time together & find common interests. Unfortunately, About Youth has a lacklustre plot. The series falters whenever it focuses on nonromantic storylines.

The New Employee

• Story C
• Romance B-
• Acting B
• Ending C
• Style B
• Grade 72

The New Employee is a Korean BL series about a marketing intern, his boss, and their office romance. The main character begins an internship at an advertising company. He works under a strict supervisor known for his demanding work ethic. Although their relationship doesn't have the best start, they warm up to each other. Soon, the two colleagues must navigate a budding attraction as they work closely together.

A love story builds momentum by teasing the will-they-or-won't-they dynamic. Yet, The New Employee hardly emphasizes this phase of the courtship. The main characters fall in love too promptly without enough development. I would've liked more scenes highlighting their mentorship dynamic and attraction to each other. The later episodes include cozy exchanges that make up for the lack of flirting in the beginning. Once the leads become romantically involved, their delightful relationship scenes charm me. They share a smooth, easygoing rapport.

Takara-kun & Amagi-kun

• Story C+
• Romance B
• Acting C
• Ending C+
• Style B+
• Grade 72

Takara-kun and Amagi-kun is a Japanese BL series about two high school students who recently started dating. The main characters belong to different social circles. One is a part of the popular kids, while the other just hangs out with his ordinary friends. They must hide this unlikely relationship from classmates while navigating their feelings for one another.

Takara-kun & Amagi-kun peaks in the middle. It experiences an enjoyable stretch of episodes, balancing gentle romance and warm sentimentality. Yet, the series loses me near the end as it drifts into unappealing subplots about friendship. Generally, the storylines are pretty hit-or-miss. I grew tired of the repetitive conflicts since the leads always seemed to whine about something. Over time, my interest shifted to the other supporting characters with livelier personalities.

Oh! My Assistant

• Story B-
• Romance C+
• Acting B+
• Ending D
• Style C+
• Grade 71

Oh! My Assistant is a Korean BL comedy series about a webtoon artist and his new employee. The protagonist draws for a living and recently hires a assistant to help with his projects. Romantic feelings develop as they work together day and night. However, the characters don't know if their crush is reciprocated. They must navigate their attraction and confusion in many funny situations.

I was pleasantly surprised by Oh! My Assistant, which exceeded my expectations in the first five episodes. The story makes comfortable progress as it builds momentum toward a fun, cozy romance. This series had such a strong start that I didn't foresee its total collapse near the end. Suddenly, the lighthearted plot plummets into cheesy and contrived melodrama. The needless love triangle conflict overtakes the narrative. Each unbearable scene contains miserable angst, irrational behaviour, and infuriating responses from the characters.

A Man Who Defies the World of BL 2

• Story C
• Romance C-
• Acting A-
• Ending C+
• Style B
• Grade 71

A Man Who Defies the World of BL 2 is the second season of the Japanese BL comedy. This sequel continues the story of the reluctant protagonist in a universe dominated by gay couples. Although he becomes more open-minded, a shocking setback makes the main character feel jaded about love.

A positive change in A Man Who Defies the World of BL 2 is the added sentimentality. The plots appear to have more substance in the sequel. The first season was solely focused on telling hilarious gags, whereas the second series has several sweet and sensitive exchanges. Also, the main character shows more maturity than previously. His aversion to BL seems toned down, replaced by compassion and understanding. A Man Who Defies the World of BL 2 sacrificed some of its humour for emotional depth, which is a good trade-off.

The Promise

• Story C
• Romance D
• Acting A-
• Ending B
• Style A-
• Grade 71

The Promise is a Vietnamese BL series about two stepbrothers and their budding romance. The feisty teenage protagonist has a rocky relationship with his older stepsibling. After getting into trouble at school, the main character is surprised when his nemesis shows sympathetic support. Their relationship improves, but they must navigate their vague and uneasy feelings for each other.

The Promise has an uninspired concept. I'm just not fond of stepbrother romances in BL. Plus, this series doesn't deviate much from the standard formula, delivering another reiteration of the tired old trope. The story lacks originality, especially in an era when the BL genre is experimenting with new, innovative ideas. With that said, The Promise is elevated significantly by its elegant artistry. It's a well-produced series with cozy, dreamlike visuals. In addition, this BL drama has vibrant performances from the leads.

Our Days

• Story B-
• Romance C
• Acting C
• Ending B-
• Style A-
• Grade 71

Our Days is a Thai BL series about two university students who become enemies after a drunken night together. The main character cannot forgive his acquaintance over a stolen kiss. The other protagonist is apologetic and seeks forgiveness, but hostility continues brewing between them. Their relationship turns complicated once they must live in the same house as roommates.

This series has a different rhythm than most BL dramas. The story is slow, quiet, and mundane, unlike the sleek, sexy, and fast-paced romances prevalent in the genre. It takes ample time to advance the plot, develop the characters, and explore their motivations. The protagonists go on long journeys of growth and self-discovery. If you have patience, the narrative builds to precious moments of introspection. However, I suspect many fans won't respond well to the dull pacing. Our Days is too much of a slow burn and doesn't offer enough excitement to hold your attention.

Enchanté

• Story D
• Romance B+
• Acting B
• Ending C-
• Style A-
• Grade 70

Enchanté is a Thai BL series about two childhood friends who reunite after years of separation. The main character moved overseas and lived in France until his grandmother's death. After returning home, he reconnects with his neighbour and strengthens their close bond. Suddenly, the protagonist receives a flirty message from a secret admirer. He begins investigating who wrote the mysterious note.

My main takeaway from Enchante is that I really love this couple. The actors portray an authentic bond, delighting me with their natural rapport. Based on their cozy interactions, I'm convinced they grew up together and have known each other for years. Yet the story wastes so much time on the pointless investigation of the mystery suitor. It milks unnecessary drama from a random message in a library book. Annoyingly, this dull storyline dominates the plot, shifting the spotlight onto the irrelevant supporting characters.

On Cloud Nine

• Story C
• Romance C
• Acting B-
• Ending B-
• Style A
• Grade 70

On Cloud Nine is a Thai fantasy BL series. The story begins with the main character meeting a mysterious stranger in the wilderness. This suspicious wanderer seems oddly intimate, following the protagonist wherever he goes. Soon, bizarre events begin happening when they are together. After a puzzling intro, the rest of the BL drama is dedicated to explaining the past. It turns out the two leads used to have a history together.

I commend On Cloud Nine for daring to do something different from the norm. This fantasy BL series is a radical departure from your usual school campus or workplace romances. It definitely gets points for creativity. With that said, I was bored and confused for many episodes. I deciphered the hidden plot after a while, yet the dull, melancholy scenes still couldn't sustain my interest. The storytelling seems unnecessarily convoluted, making it tricky to connect with the characters or understand their perspective. Both protagonists felt unfamiliar and unrelatable.

Original Sin

• Story C+
• Romance C-
• Acting B
• Ending C
• Style C-
• Grade 69

Original Sin is a Korean BL short movie about a love affair between two church members. The protagonist is a devout believer who attends religious gatherings with other parishioners. One day, a mysterious newcomer joins his congregation. Against the church's teachings, the main characters develop a secret attraction during bible readings and private home visits.

Original Sin is twenty minutes long, but this movie manages its time wisely. It quickly introduces the leads and develops their sexual tension. The romance is intriguing due to its ambiguity. As the characters navigate their feelings, every intimate moment becomes riveting. Yet, Original Sin is too short and doesn't create a lasting impact. I'm interested in the plot, the characters, and their sexual tension. However, the movie's length prevents it from exploring the themes thoroughly. 

Fudanshi Bartender

• Story C+
• Romance D+
• Acting A-
• Ending C-
• Style C+
• Grade 68

Fudanshi Bartender is a Japanese BL slice-of-life comedy. The main character may look like a suave bartender on the outside, but he hides his secret obsession with BL. The protagonist constantly daydreams about his male coworkers and customers in outlandish scenarios. Cursed with an overactive imagination, he can misconstrue even the most innocuous moment and turn it into a romantic connection.

Despite its simplicity, Fudanshi Bartender delivers the quirky comedy with relentless enthusiasm. Every scene is silly, energetic, and gleeful. Even if some of the jokes are hit-or-miss, they successfully convey a sense of liveliness and excitement. This drama embraces offbeat humour, wholly committed to its eccentricity. It feeds off the ridiculousness, making you laugh because the main character's BL delusions are so far removed from normalcy. Unable to take itself too seriously, Fudanshi Bartender loves being campy, flamboyant, and over-the-top. 

Once Again

• Story C
• Romance C-
• Acting B+
• Ending C
• Style C+
• Grade 68

Once Again is a Korean fantasy BL series about going back in time to stop a murder. The main character was almost kidnapped by a child abductor fifteen years ago. A young man saved him, but this hero lost his life during the rescue. The adult protagonist is traumatized until he discovers the ability to revisit the past. He feels determined to change the timeline and stop the tragedy before it unfolds.

Once Again excels in sentimentality. It tugs at your heartstrings with sympathetic protagonists and schmaltzy melodrama. In addition, the elegant soundtrack evokes melancholy, using music effectively to amplify poignant emotions. Best of all, the actors give genuine performances that convey heartfelt sensitivity. However, the plot is executed shallowly. This series doesn't explore the nuances of time travel with much depth. It takes a simplistic approach to the complex topic, failing to expand on most ideas.

We're Both Grooms

• Story C+
• Romance C-
• Acting C
• Ending B-
• Style B-
• Grade 68

We're Both Grooms is a Japanese BL drama about a gay couple on their wedding day. Moments before the ceremony, the main character suddenly admits he hasn't come out to his parents, family, or coworkers. His fiancé is shocked by the revelation, but the couple tries to tie the knot anyway. Their nuptials descend into arguments, tears, and chaos as various guests disrupt the festivities.

Overall, I think the storyline is just okay and it doesn't completely wow me. Some moments are dramatic and poignant, whereas other exchanges could be written more elegantly. The sentimentality resonates with me a little, but it's a mild touch rather than a powerful punch of emotions. Occasionally, the wedding mix-up becomes so zany that you'll giggle at the ridiculousness. We're Both Grooms has various amusing moments, using goofy jokes to defuse the tension in the narrative.

The Director Who Buys Me Dinner

• Story C-
• Romance C
• Acting B-
• Ending C+
• Style B-
• Grade 67

The Director Who Buys Me Dinner is a Korean BL series about an office romance with a fantasy twist. The protagonist is supposed to start his dream job. Unexpectedly, he transfers departments and becomes the company director's personal assistant instead. His new boss reveals they used to share a complicated past. The two characters begin meeting for dinner as they navigate their ambiguous relationship.

The opening episodes benefited from the novelty of the premise. I was eager to learn about the characters and their mysterious history. Despite its potential, my early enthusiasm fizzles after the initial hook. The clunky narrative seems disjointed, as if random events are pieced together. I pause between scenes with a quizzical look, perplexed by vague events or incoherent behaviour. This story doesn't flow smoothly, explain plots clearly, and build momentum effectively. The Director Who Buys Me Dinner feels disappointing, like a creative idea that is poorly executed.

Why You… Y Me?

• Story C-
• Romance C
• Acting C+
• Ending B-
• Style B
• Grade 67

Why You… Y Me? is a Thai series told from a BL fangirl's perspective. The protagonist is obsessed with yaoi and likes to ship imaginary couples in real life. After befriending a male classmate, he introduces her to his indie band. The chummy interactions between the group members fuel her fantasies. She feels inspired to showcase their BL potential and make these unknown musicians famous.

Why You… Y Me? delivers a polished production with bright visuals and a cheerful soundtrack. In addition, both leads are energetic, bringing much youthful exuberance to their roles. The rest of the supporting cast isn't as smooth. A few actors may lack on-camera experience, which you notice in their rookie performances. Overall, I enjoy some aspects of Why You… Y Me? It has a funny story, goofy characters, and good closure for the ending. With that said, this BL drama is too casual and lightweight. I'm left with tepid feelings after finishing a fairly average series.

I'm a Fool for You Season 3

• Story C
• Romance C
• Acting C
• Ending B-
• Style B-
• Grade 67

I'm a Fool for You Season 3 is the sequel of the Hong Kong BL series. The story showcases the relationship drama of three gay men. This season, the protagonist agonizes over his heartbreak and takes drastic measures. Another costar enters a new romance with a suave suitor. Meanwhile, the other lead encounters his ex-boyfriend under sordid circumstances.

I'm a Fool for You Season 3 is better at crafting emotional story arcs for the three protagonists. Last season suffered because the plot was stagnant and too uneventful, whereas this series moves forward with brisk momentum. The characters face ups and downs in their turbulent relationship drama. However, the story is still too gloomy and lacking in energy. The characters mope around with a grey cloud of misery, barely cracking a smile throughout five episodes. Love is supposed to feel jubilant, but this angsty series seems devoid of enthusiasm.

Remember Me

• Story C-
• Romance C
• Acting C+
• Ending B-
• Style B-
• Grade 67

Remember Me is a Thai BL series about a group of childhood friends. The main characters have known each other since they were young. Recently, they welcomed a new member to their social circle. However, their quiet acquaintance doesn't speak. They befriend him anyway, overcoming his communication troubles. As they grow up and head in different directions, their bonds are challenged by emotional turmoil.

I like how Remember Me takes its time to depict the characters' childhood in the first few episodes. The story explores their family dynamics, showcasing the influence of loved ones on their upbringing and values. However, the story feels so slow in the last few episodes. As the tedious conflicts escalated, I stopped caring about these unlikeable characters. Overall, Remember Me is a subpar BL drama. The only lasting memory I'll remember is those damn shoddy wigs.

First Love Again

• Story B-
• Romance C-
• Acting C+
• Ending B-
• Style B-
• Grade 67

First Love Again is a Korean fantasy BL series about a reincarnated man searching for his long-lost love. The protagonist is a famous author who carries the memories from his two previous lives. He fell in love with the same woman both times, but their romance always met a tragic end. The main character is determined to reunite with her again in the present timeline. Yet, he is shocked to discover his former lover has reincarnated as a man.

First Love Again is beautiful, energetic, and innovative. The series is backed by polished production values, maintaining a clean-cut and elegant aesthetic. In addition, the plot moves along at an upbeat tempo. Best of all, First Love Again has a unique and compelling hook. To my knowledge, we haven't seen another BL drama with this premise, so the storylines feel extraordinary and refreshing. Sadly, the plot drops off around the middle and goes into freefall near the end. First Love Again runs out of adrenaline, loses my enthusiasm, and never hits its stride.

Mr. Unlucky Has No Choice but to Kiss

• Story C-
• Romance C-
• Acting B+
• Ending C-
• Style A-
• Grade 66

Mr. Unlucky Has No Choice but to Kiss is a quirky Japanese BL drama. The main character believes he has been jinxed throughout his life. Everywhere the protagonist goes, he encounters accidents, disruptions, and a persistent streak of bad luck. However, his situation improves after meeting a popular university student with inherently good fortune. As they start a romantic relationship, their destinies become intertwined.

I understand why Mr. Unlucky Has No Choice but to Kiss may appeal to some fans. It's a cute, lighthearted BL drama with adorable leads and a stunning visual presentation. I'm not immune to its charms, and there are moments when this enthusiastic series seems endearing. Yet, I also found the last few episodes insufferable, often getting on my nerves and testing my patience. Overall, the story wasn't exciting, the main character acted irritating, and the romance never won over me. I have no choice but to give a mediocre review, unable to justify its shortcomings.

Oh! Boarding House

• Story C-
• Romance D+
• Acting C+
• Ending B-
• Style C
• Grade 66

Oh! Boarding House is a quirky Korean BL comedy series. The goofy protagonist is a landlord who lives with the other eccentric characters in a boarding house. When a handsome tenant moves into the residence, the landlord becomes smitten with the new arrival. The two men begin as awkward acquaintances, but they soon develop a solid connection.

Oh! Boarding House works best when it leans towards the wacky comedic elements. Several funny gags or exaggerated reactions can be mildly charming. The overall humour leaves a positive impression and I'd consider it a unique selling point for the series. Unfortunately, Oh! Boarding House has a lacklustre BL romance. They're selling this couple to me, but I'm not buying it. The leads don't share much chemistry. Their dynamic feels strange and unpleasant. Plus, both characters aren't that likable.

Magic of Zero

• Story C+
• Romance D+
• Acting B-
• Ending C
• Style F
• Grade 66

Magic of Zero is a Thai anthology series about three lighthearted love stories with a fantasy twist. The third episode, "Zero Supporter", showcases a BL couple. It features the leads from Cupid's Last Wish, continuing their love story after the original drama. The first episode, "Zero Photography", has a GL relationship. It focuses on the two supporting characters from Bad Buddy, highlighting their romance.

Despite the blatant advertising, Magic of Zero is a charming and enjoyable drama. I like how each short love story has a creative supernatural twist, adding a bit of quirkiness to the narrative. From time travel to body swaps, these fun diversions are entertaining enough to fill 45 minutes of air time. Every episode also packs several cute, flirty exchanges between the couples. Admittedly, the plots and the relationship content are too light. I was hoping for more emotional arcs or complex developments, but Magic of Zero delivers superficial drama.

609 Bedtime Story

• Story C-
• Romance C-
• Acting B
• Ending C-
• Style B
• Grade 65

609 Bedtime Story is a Thai BL fantasy series about a murder mystery involving two parallel universes. One night, the main character is magically transported to an alternate world. In this timeline, another resident lives in his apartment. Although they have never met, the protagonist discovers this stranger will soon be assassinated. They must navigate between universes, catch the culprit, and stop the murder.

I find the plot impossibly convoluted, disjointed, and illogical. The premise should've been exciting, as the leads travel between alternate worlds to change timelines and stop a murderer. This idea sounds thrilling on paper. Yet, the execution is muddled. There are too many irrelevant characters, dull side plots, and needless exchanges. The lousy writing stomps out the adrenaline in the story. However, 609 Bedtime Story entertains me sometimes. The plot becomes so out there that I laugh at the ridiculous antics instead of scrutinizing everything.

Love Class

• Story C-
• Romance C
• Acting B-
• Ending D+
• Style A-
• Grade 65

Love Class is a Korean BL series about the romance between two university students. The leads attend the same class, paired together for a group project. Initially, the main character has a crush on his pretty female friend. However, he grows confused about his feelings after spending more time with his male classmate.

Unfortunately, Love Class doesn't maintain its quality, going on a steady decline with each subsequent episode. Many plots unfold tediously and obnoxiously. The love triangles suck the most, draining my energy with the incessant melodrama. My frustrations with Love Class almost overshadow its positive qualities. The series looks stylish in many scenes, demonstrating polish and artistry with the visuals. Also, I'm fond of the brisk storytelling, comfortable pacing, and vibrant atmosphere.

Cherry Blossoms After Winter

• Story D-
• Romance B-
• Acting C+
• Ending C-
• Style B
• Grade 64

Cherry Blossoms After Winter is a Korean BL series about two childhood friends throughout their time in high school and university. The main character is an orphan living with a single mother and her son. Although the two teenagers grew up together, they drifted apart over the years. Now, they have a chance to reconnect again, navigating their complicated feelings for each other.

Cherry Blossoms After Winter has a timeless concept for a love story, as two childhood friends navigate their secret feelings. The couple shares plenty of romantic affection, such as kisses, hugs, cuddles, and cute flirtations. Despite ticking many boxes, I didn't enjoy Cherry Blossoms After Winter because the contrived writing makes me cringe. Typically, I can tolerate cheesiness from BL, a genre known for being schmaltzy. However, this drama overdoes the corniness. The storytelling lacks elegance and subtlety, from the clunky dialogue to the staged scenarios.

Kei x Yaku

• Story C
• Romance D-
• Acting B+
• Ending C-
• Style A-
• Grade 64

Kei x Yaku: Dangerous Buddy is a Japanese BL crime drama. The main character is a police detective investigating the mysterious shooting of his senior colleague three years ago. He meets a young yakuza leader, also looking for answers. This unlikely pair teams up and works together, uncovering the truth behind an enormous political conspiracy.

This series can be stupidly fun, entertaining me with a surreal adventure. Not all the outrageous storylines made perfect sense, but I went along with the silly shenanigans anyway. However, it's tough to justify giving a high review score when Kei x Yaku has many shortcomings. If we look at it as strictly a crime drama, the story is subpar. The convoluted plot isn't written well, full of clunky exposition, nonsensical events, and one-dimensional villains. You can't overthink Kei x Yaku, or else the bizarre leaps of logic don't hold up under scrutiny.

Secret Crush on You

• Story F
• Romance B-
• Acting C+
• Ending C
• Style A
• Grade 64

Secret Crush on You is a Thai BL series about a school misfit and his infatuation with the campus jock. The lead has an obsessive crush on a popular university student. He decorates his bedroom with surveillance photos, treasured mementoes, and even a life-sized pillow. Surprisingly, his beloved idol starts paying attention to him. Their dynamic changes from a secret admiration to a blossoming love.

Despite the inappropriateness, the early episodes of Secret Crush on You charmed me. The zany comedy, bubbly actors, and quirky visual gags produced a humorous atmosphere. Although most scenarios are dumb and absurd, they still make me laugh. Sadly, the exciting buzz wears off after a while. Secret Crush on You walks a fine line between cheeky and cringy. The series loses restraint over the provocative humour and crosses the threshold into obnoxious comedy. It also suffers from a paper-thin plot, which never develops meaningfully.

I Will Knock You

• Story C-
• Romance D+
• Acting B
• Ending C-
• Style A
• Grade 64

I Will Knock You is a quirky Thai BL comedy series about a teenage gangster and his tutor. The protagonist accidentally offends an intimidating gang leader. To his dismay, they continue encountering each other under hilariously awkward scenarios. As the leads bond, they enter a tutor and student relationship dynamic. The main character helps his uncultured companion become more well-educated.

Despite some funny moments, I Will Knock You feels overly childish. Maybe I'm not at the right age to enjoy this juvenile BL drama, which appeals to a young demographic. After the initial novelty wears off, I'm frustrated by the inane storylines, exaggerated events, and constant frivolousness. I want more depth and sophistication, yet it only delivers dumb jokes and silly shenanigans. While the later episodes contain more meaningful plots, they don't amount to anything substantial. I Will Knock You resembles light entertainment instead of an insightful series.

Maybe It's Love

• Story C-
• Romance D+
• Acting B-
• Ending C
• Style C+
• Grade 63

Maybe It's Love is a Taiwanese BL short movie about two lovers and their secret affair. After hooking up with an older man, the main character reveals he already has a boyfriend. Surprisingly, his love interest is understanding and doesn't mind being the side piece. The couple continues meeting privately. When their relationship deteriorates, they face tensions, confrontations, and accusations.

The movie's biggest drawback is its length. At twelve minutes long, Maybe It's Love doesn't have enough time to develop the plot. I struggle to care about the characters or their relationship over such a short period. The entire film only consists of two scenes, hardly enough to make viewers invested in the narrative. Despite providing essential details through dialogue, there's so much missing context. How did the leads meet? What are their lives like besides hooking up? We don't even know their real names. Maybe It's Love offers barely anything to flesh out the backstory.

Self

• Story D+
• Romance D
• Acting B-
• Ending B-
• Style B
• Grade 63

Self is a Thai BL series about two high school students who cross paths under strange, paranormal circumstances. The protagonist suddenly loses the ability to see his reflection in the mirror. As he searches for answers, his investigation leads him to a troubled teen involved in a schoolwide controversy. After meeting, the characters form an unusual relationship filled with intrigue, mistrust, and redemption.

On the one hand, Self is gritty and captivating. On the other hand, it's a terribly written series plagued with illogical plot holes. The characters indulge in outrageous behaviour and give unreasonable reactions. There's so much about the narrative that doesn't feel realistic, leaving me dumbfounded because of the preposterous circumstances. Also, the storyteller handles many mature topics irresponsibly, from gun violence to mental health. I'm miffed by its representation of LGBT youths, perpetuating offensive tropes without sensitivity.

The Star Always Follows You

• Story C-
• Romance C-
• Acting C+
• Ending C-
• Style B-
• Grade 63

The Star Always Follows You is a Vietnamese BL series about a teenager who moves to the countryside. Due to his poor grades, the protagonist's mother brings her son to live with his grandmother in a rural village. She wants to remove him from the city's distractions before university entrance exams. He begins remedial lessons with a private tutor. As they grow closer, their sessions go from academic to romantic.

The Star Always Follows You commits the offence of being boring. My main criticism of this series is its dullness. None of the plots stimulate me. Despite the potential for complex themes or exciting conflicts, the low-stakes story feels uneventful. I finish the last episode without emotional investment. Overall, The Star Always Follows You is an average BL drama. It has some positive qualities and doesn't deserve a scathing review. I recognize this small-studio project contains lots of sincerity. Nonetheless, it isn't something I'd watch more than once.

BOYS

• Story C-
• Romance C-
• Acting C
• Ending C-
• Style C
• Grade 62

BOYS is a Hong Kong BL series about two young actors in a theatre play. The main character has unrequited feelings for his costar. Yet, his crush only sees them as friends. The heartbroken protagonist begins spending time with an old roommate instead. His love interest observes their closeness and wonders about his own feelings.

BOYS suffers due to an excessively gloomy tone. This BL drama doesn't have an optimal balance between happy relationship moments and miserable melodrama. Instead, the few lighthearted encounters are overshadowed by lots of unpleasantness. I don't have the patience to subject myself to constant arguments, jealous tantrums, and self-pitying spiels. As the characters keep clashing, BOYS becomes an increasingly irritating experience. I'm reluctant to watch each new episode and continue this journey of perpetual negativity.

The Love of Winter

• Story C-
• Romance C-
• Acting C
• Ending C-
• Style A-
• Grade 61

The Love of Winter is a Thai BL series about a tourist who travels to the countryside alone. He stays at a remote resort, getting acquainted with the local tour guide. Thanks to the other meddlesome employees, the two men have many opportunities for alone time and forge a close connection.

Aesthetically, I love the romantic ambiance in The Love of Winter. Emotionally, I feel uninspired by the shallow BL moments that don't go beyond the surface level. While the content isn't awful by any means, there's a shortage of passion, enthusiasm, and adrenaline. I can't get excited about the mundane characters or their tepid exchanges. The leads only share a tiny spark of chemistry rather than sizzling flames of desire. The Love of Winter feels too timid when this genre has already advanced to many creative plots & daring relationships.

HIStory 5: Love in the Future

• Story F
• Romance B-
• Acting C-
• Ending C
• Style B
• Grade 61

HIStory 5: Love in the Future is a Taiwanese BL series about a time traveller and his romance. One night, the protagonist is magically transported years into the future. While settling into his new life, he befriends a mysterious stranger who offers him a job and a residence. The two roommates bond as they learn about each other's pasts. Their relationship heats up once they work in the same office together.

After a sloppy premiere, HIStory 5: Into the Future continues its muddled nonsense episode after episode. From confusing scenarios to ridiculous reactions, every eccentric scene breaks the rules of reality. In addition, the story's clumsy attempts at quirky humour are unbearable. I'm mortified by the idiotic jokes, awkward dialogue, and exaggerated acting. The only positive is that HIStory 5 seems so cringy that it almost turns hilariously campy. This atrocious series develops like a fascinating disaster, making me curious about how much worse it can get.

Big Dragon

• Story F
• Romance C
• Acting B-
• Ending C
• Style A
• Grade 61

Big Dragon is a spicy Thai BL series about two enemies feuding over a sex tape. The main character clashes with his university rival as they compete for a female classmate's attention. Driven by desperation, the protagonist devises a nasty plot. He plans to film his opponent during a sexual encounter and use the camera footage to blackmail him. Their volatile relationship develops over threats, manipulation, and unexpected passion.

Big Dragon suffers because the writing quality is below average, even by the lower standards of the BL genre. You look at the stylish production values and expect this series to produce an epic narrative. Unfortunately, it's just an illusion. After a bold and explosive start, the story retreats to a generic structure. The conflict over the sex tape becomes irrelevant, replaced by predictable family angst and dull love triangles. These cliched subplots are uncompelling and do not generate excitement. Big Dragon feels lost, as if it has no idea what to do with the drama. 

Star in My Mind

• Story F
• Romance C
• Acting C
• Ending C+
• Style C+
• Grade 60

Star in My Mind is a Thai BL series about a campus romance. The main character confessed his feelings to his high school classmate, who rejected him. They reunite in university after spending a year apart. Tormented by his earlier confession, the protagonist must navigate his embarrassment and frustration around his love interest.

Despite following a generic formula, Star in My Mind still becomes an incoherent mess as it progresses. The series is overeager to create unnecessary conflicts and include shallow love triangles. What should have been an easygoing romance becomes bogged down by angst, arguments & misunderstandings. Realistically, the leads reach a point in their relationship where there shouldn't be obstacles. You like him, and he likes you back, so what seems to be the problem? Yet, the characters keep crying and bickering over their self-inflicted agony.

Want to See You

• Story D-
• Romance C-
• Acting C+
• Ending C
• Style C+
• Grade 60

Want to See You is a Vietnamese BL series about a blind protagonist. After an accident, the main character loses his vision and requires long-term assistance. He hires a caretaker to look after him, but they clash over their headstrong personalities. The two leads must navigate emotional trauma, explosive family melodrama, and a volatile romantic relationship.

Many fictional works avoid depicting disabilities, especially for a genre as cozy as BL. This series embraces the delicate topic, making it the central theme. It highlights thoughtful chats, poignant emotions, and fascinating insights about vision impairment. Yet, Want to See You diverts from its momentous themes and focuses on trashy subplots. It becomes preoccupied with the scheming girlfriend, the manipulative sister, and the homophobic mother. These annoying distractions undermine the sensitive storyline about the main character's disability.

Country Boy 2

• Story C-
• Romance D
• Acting C
• Ending C
• Style B-
• Grade 60

Country Boy 2 is the sequel of the Thai BL drama, continuing the teenage love story from the original series. The cheerful protagonist leaves the countryside to work in the city for several weeks, but he faces a challenging experience. Meanwhile, his love interest struggles with exams and academic pressure. The two characters try to make time for each other amid their busy schedules, rekindling the spark from their first encounter.

Overall, this sequel improves upon its predecessor. I thought the first season was an amateurish effort, whereas this follow-up just needs skillful tweaks here and there. However, the storytelling is still clumsy and the romance lacks substance. The leads only share a handful of scenes, not enough to establish a persuasive bond. Their connection feels more like a platonic friendship than a schoolboy crush. Compared to other decent BL dramas, I'm sorry to say that Country Boy 2 does not meet satisfaction.

Love Stage

• Story D-
• Romance C-
• Acting C-
• Ending C
• Style B
• Grade 59

Love Stage is a Thai BL series adapted from a Japanese manga. The protagonist comes from a celebrity family, but he has no desire to be famous. He hates the spotlight and simply wants to lead an ordinary life. When he develops an unexpected bond with a young idol, the couple wrestles with fame, privacy, and scandals.

The Love Stage drama suffers the same flaws as its anime and film counterparts. It has a weak premise, setting a shaky foundation for the rest of the series. It's tough to feel immersed in this childish love story with undeveloped characters, superficial relationships, and obnoxious interactions. Some storylines have untapped potential. However, Love Stage is frivolous, approaches the topics on a surface level, and never explores its themes deep enough.

The 8.2 Second Rule

• Story C-
• Romance D-
• Acting C
• Ending C
• Style B-
• Grade 59

The 8.2 Second Rule is a Japanese BL series about a high school student and his ongoing pursuit of love. The teenage protagonist is a hopeless romantic who wants to find a boyfriend. He believes in the superstition that two people can fall in love if they maintain eye contact for 8.2 seconds. In each episode, the main character meets with various classmates to test if the theory comes true.

The narrative suffers from a formulaic structure with few surprises. Every episode follows the same template, unwilling to deviate from its rigid trajectory. In the premiere, the lead makes desserts for a classmate before helping him solve a minor issue in his life. I'm sorry to say the rest of the series repeats this process to the end. There may be a new character, a different backstory, and another tasty dessert recipe. Nonetheless, it recycles a nearly identical plot five times. The lack of variety makes you want to skip the filler episodes because nothing unexpected will happen.

Shimbashi Koi Story

• Story D+
• Romance C-
• Acting D+
• Ending C
• Style C
• Grade 59

Shimbashi Koi Story is a Japanese BL series about two customers falling in love at a gay bar. The main character is a shy and lonely bachelor in his late thirties. He frequents a bear bar with his best friend. One evening, they meet a newcomer who mingles with them. The protagonist is attracted to his new acquaintance. However, he struggles to open up and make the first move.

The most disappointing aspect of Shimbashi Koi Story is the generic plot. Every storyline is terribly bland and uninspired. The series lacks originality, copying all the typical cliches in the romance genre. Where's the imagination? Based on the unique profiles of the cast, this drama has the opportunity to tackle fascinating topics. Some ideas include embracing bear culture, exploring the dating scene in your late 30s, or examining prejudices and discrimination. Yet, Shimbashi Koi Story rehashes the usual tropes of love triangles, jealousy, and misunderstandings.

What If

• Story C-
• Romance D-
• Acting C
• Ending C-
• Style B
• Grade 58

What If is a Thai BL series about two childhood best friends with a passion for music. The protagonists are neighbours who bond over guitar lessons. The story follows the characters as they grow up, from adolescence to young adulthood. Due to their age difference, one departs for university while the other remains in high school. This relationship must endure their time apart from each other.

Although What If shows so much promise, all that potential never materializes. After a solid start, the plot never picks up the pace. The story loses momentum midway and ends abruptly before anything substantial happens. The leads don't grow their relationship meaningfully for the rest of the uneventful BL drama. Inexplicably, What If almost gives up on forging the romance and strays into aimlessness. This series is more preoccupied with trivial campus antics or random supporting characters than developing the star couple.

Rainbow Lagoon

• Story F
• Romance C-
• Acting C+
• Ending C+
• Style B
• Grade 58

Rainbow Lagoon is a Thai BL series about two love rivals who turn into romantic companions. The main characters competed against each other over the same girlfriend, but she dumped them both. Wounded from their recent heartbreaks, the two former enemies patch up their relationship. Surprisingly, they get along and even become friends.

Rainbow Lagoon is filmed in the beautiful outdoors, achieving a cozy, relaxed ambiance. The camerawork is solid and steady, especially for an indie company. Their production values are not the issue. My main problem is the clumsy, childish scripts that don't meet professional standards. If Wayufilm Production wants to improve its future projects, it must invest in a more sophisticated story. Otherwise, the studio will continue churning out subpar products like Rainbow Lagoon, which can't compete with many well-written BL dramas.

Shimbashi Koi Story 2

• Story D
• Romance D+
• Acting D+
• Ending C
• Style C
• Grade 56

Shimbashi Koi Story Season 2 is the sequel to the Japanese BL series Shimbashi Koi Story. The second season continues the couple's love story after two years have passed. Both main characters are still happily in love. However, their blissful relationship faces various unexpected obstacles. A new rival, a manipulative ex-boyfriend, and communication troubles threaten to tear apart the romance.

The sequel begins with a time skip of two years. The leads have moved in since the first season, showing domesticity and stability in their long-term relationship. Yet, this series lacks lovey-dovey moments. Despite living together, the couple doesn't share many romantic exchanges. They avoid flirting, banter, compliments, intimacy, or affectionate gestures that keep the sparks alive. The protagonists also spend more time with the other supporting characters than their boyfriends. They get too caught up in their exes, love triangles, and unnecessary drama.

The Tuxedo

• Story D-
• Romance C
• Acting C-
• Ending D-
• Style B
• Grade 55

The Tuxedo is a Thai BL series about a talented tailor, his wealthy client, and their love story. The two characters don't get along initially over their family feud and personality clashes. Despite a rocky start to their relationship, they grow closer over a budding romantic attraction. The couple embarks on an emotional journey as they face drama and trauma together.

The Tuxedo began as a secret guilty pleasure. I found the early episodes mindlessly enjoyable, delighting me with the outrageous silliness. After a while, the series loses its charms and oversteps the line into problematic antics. Many subplots make me uncomfortable because they are written thoughtlessly and trashily. The romance is also shallow and doesn't highlight an attraction between the leads compellingly. Overall, The Tuxedo offers little substance, bogged down by insipid plots and heavy melodrama.

Sing in Love

• Story C-
• Romance F
• Acting B
• Ending F
• Style B-
• Grade 55

Sing in Love is a Japanese BL movie about a teacher who experiences sexual assault trauma. A violent predator attacks the main character in the middle of the night, leaving him psychologically scarred. Despite reporting the crime, the police haven't made an arrest. Suddenly, the abuser initiates contact and taunts his victim. The protagonist's anger and fear send his life on a dangerous downward spiral.

I hated Sing in Love after finishing it. Typically, I'd erase the awful experience from my mind and never touch the movie again. However, I force myself to rewatch it for the sake of this review. During the second viewing, I calmed down without letting emotions cloud my judgment. As a result, I gained clarity over the film's narrative themes. Yet, the movie always does too much, from constant twists to nonstop drama. The narrative is overloaded with heavy storylines that muddle the messages it wants to convey.

In a Relationship

• Story D-
• Romance D
• Acting D
• Ending B-
• Style F
• Grade 55

In a Relationship is a Thai BL series about a teenage romance developed over video calls. After losing a bet, the main character must fulfill three wishes for the winner. Surprisingly, one of the requests asks him to enter a romantic relationship. The protagonist is opposed to the idea initially, but he bonds with his love interest over many virtual chats.

In a Relationship consists almost entirely of video calls. Mastering the format requires a sharp script and lively line delivery, both aspects that aren't in this drama's wheelhouse. In a Relationship suffers from poor writing and uninspired acting. It can't execute the fun back-and-forth banter between the leads. The dialogue is too mundane, made worse because the young performers don't have enough enthusiasm to elevate the material. In a Relationship also lacks intimacy and on-screen chemistry in its weak love story.

Love Area Part 2

• Story F
• Romance C-
• Acting C
• Ending D-
• Style C+
• Grade 54

Love Area Part 2 is the sequel of the Thai BL drama Love Area. This eight-episode series continues the turbulent relationship between two restaurant employees. As the leads navigate their feelings, their romance must overcome love triangles, personality clashes, and tense misunderstandings.

The second season suffers from a lack of meaningful or innovative storylines. Nearly every event feels unoriginal, following a generic BL playbook. Love Area also doesn't bother to develop their leads in Part 2, so the flat characters are solely defined by their romances. This series has many chances to expand upon their personalities, all squandered to rehash the tedious love triangles. The atrocious writing dampens the performances in Love Area 2. The actors can hardly shine with the banal, uninspired material.

La Cuisine

• Story F
• Romance C-
• Acting C-
• Ending C-
• Style B+
• Grade 54

La Cuisine is a Thai BL series about two university students bonding over cute lunch dates. The main character is a campus heartthrob and a notoriously picky eater. He befriends a shy culinary student who offers to prepare his school meals. They form a close bond, overcoming their opposite personalities. However, a jealous classmate threatens to disrupt the pair's budding relationship.

After the first few uneventful episodes, my frustration sets in. This fluffy series lacks excitement, grit, or substance. Although pleasant, the flimsy storylines never venture beyond the characters cooking, eating, and smiling vapidly at each other. I have given up on expecting a complex plot, but can there be more meaningful dialogue or funnier scenes? It doesn't help that both leads have bland personalities. Their harmonious interactions result in a saccharine romance with no sparks. They flirt like awkward pre-teens in adult bodies.

Cupid's Last Wish

• Story F
• Romance C
• Acting C+
• Ending F
• Style C+
• Grade 53

Cupid's Last Wish is a Thai BL series about two siblings who swap bodies. After an accident, the protagonist switches identities with his sister, who has fallen into a coma. He must collect holy water across the country to reverse the curse. His childhood friend joins him on the journey, but their relationship is strained after a dramatic argument. They must put aside their differences to complete this urgent road trip in seven days.

In Couple's Last Wish, the leads travel across the country to collect holy water at various destinations. The journey is unexciting and uneventful. The characters just randomly drive around, bickering everywhere they go. There's no attempt to highlight the lore, showcase the culture, or explore the locations. This snoozy road trip isn't my idea of entertainment. Sometimes, Cupid's Last Wish focuses on other diversions to break the monotony of the narrative. However, these trivial side plots contain cringy jokes and corny messages.

My Roommate

• Story F
• Romance C-
• Acting C-
• Ending C-
• Style F
• Grade 52

My Roommate is a Thai BL series about six young singles living together. The main character inherits his mother's house after she passes away. However, he discovers she has rented the place to strangers, and there's no way to wiggle out of the lease. Reluctantly, the protagonist must cope with his new tenants and their quirky personalities.

Besides the miniature length, My Roommate suffers because of its childishness. The frivolous plots involve immature behaviour, petty conflicts, and annoying shenanigans. It's hard to get excited about the lousy storylines that should've stayed in the drafts inbox. On top of having awful ideas, the narrative is choppy and incoherent. I have trouble following the events, understanding character motivations, or making sense of the silliness. Please return to writing school and learn how to tell a story properly.

Grand Guignol

• Story F
• Romance D
• Acting C+
• Ending D
• Style B-
• Grade 50

Grand Guignol is a Japanese BL horror movie about a school for delinquents. The main character is a teenager enrolled in an academy on a remote island. He meets the other students and staff, who all seem eccentric or secretive. As the protagonist settles in his new home, he is shocked by the strange behaviour, scandalous romances, and gruesome deaths around him.

Maybe horror buffs would respond better to Grand Guignol, but I don't see the appeal. The movie seems more preoccupied with cheap thrills and shock scares than telling a sophisticated story. It barely justifies why strange events occur at the creepy school. While there's a vague explanation, the superficial plot doesn't have a lot of depth. Likewise, the characters receive no development. Each individual only has one defining trait that determines their identity. They solely exist to get killed off one by one. Not even the protagonist stands out with his bland, generic personality.

Kissable Lips

• Story F
• Romance D
• Acting C-
• Ending D
• Style B+
• Grade 50

Kissable Lips is a Korean BL drama about vampires. The main character is a dying vampire who suffers from deteriorating health. According to urban legend, his only way to stay alive is by drinking the rare blood of a human lover. Against the odds, he meets somebody with this blood type, forming a whirlwind romance that takes them on a turbulent journey.

This drama flops for a few reasons. One, it's incoherent. The storytelling rushes through key concepts, introduces characters without explanations, and never clarifies backstories or relationship dynamics. Two, it's illogical, even for a supernatural horror series. The many plot holes, the senseless protagonist, and the ridiculously contrived events make my eyes roll. And three, it's so boring. Kissable Lips is devoid of entertainment, failing to build adrenaline, maintain suspense, or inspire enthusiasm.

Check Out

• Story F
• Romance C+
• Acting C+
• Ending F
• Style C+
• Grade 50

Check Out is a Thai BL series about a raunchy office affair. The main character works for his ex-boyfriend, who dotes on him and wants to reconcile. However, the protagonist secretly longs for another man he met on vacation. After hooking up, his holiday fling goes missing without a trace. He reappears months later, bringing workplace conflict, relationship drama, and sexual tension.

Check Out is a lengthy drama with hours of content. Despite spending so much time with the characters, I know little about them beyond their love lives. There's hardly any attempt to flesh out their backstories or make them nuanced individuals. They're shallow caricatures defined by their sexual desires. Although most storylines are dull and infuriating, Check Out springs alive during the steamy encounters. This raunchy series is daring when it comes to sex. The erotic moments stand out because they're risqué, pushing the envelope in terms of intimacy and nudity.

Work From Heart

• Story F
• Romance C-
• Acting C
• Ending F
• Style D+
• Grade 49

Work From Heart is a Thai BL comedy series about an office romance. The main character is a wealthy heir who begins an internship at his grandfather's company. He flirts with another employee, developing an attraction. However, his homophobic family meddles behind the scenes and tries to undermine this budding romance.

Work From Heart wants to be a zany workplace comedy with a large ensemble cast. Yet, the pointless supporting characters only exist to act like noisy distractions and rehash the same old jokes. This series misses the opportunity to expand their personalities, explore the office dynamics, or tell interesting stories. It wastes seven episodes accomplishing very little except for an offensive plot and an uninspiring romance. Overall, Work From Heart is a tacky, lowbrow BL drama. The obnoxious narrative worsens until it becomes almost unwatchable near the end.

Blue of Winter

• Story F
• Romance D-
• Acting B-
• Ending D-
• Style C
• Grade 49

Blue of Winter is a Korean BL series about a high school love triangle. The main character is in the judo club, where he meets a new student with a secret crush on him. Soon afterwards, the protagonist receives an unexpected love confession from a friend. As these teenagers navigate their feelings, they struggle with confusion, insecurity, and heartbreak.

After a rocky premiere, the writing in Blue of Winter never gets much better. The narrative doesn't flow smoothly with awkward scenes, banal interactions, and clunky dialogue. The characters aren't properly established, defined by vague motivations and little personality. Their relationship dynamics are also incoherent. There isn't an organic romance that blossoms over time. Instead, the leads suddenly fall in love without a sensible explanation.

Boy Scouts

• Story D
• Romance F
• Acting B-
• Ending D
• Style B-
• Grade 48

Boy Scouts is a short Thai BL series about the various misadventures in a scout camp. The main character is shy and physically fragile, so he gets teased by the other teenagers. He develops a crush on one of the heroic boy scouts, who stands up for him against the bullies.

Boy Scouts is decent enough to hold my interest for an hour. The lovely visuals, cozy soundtrack, and polished production make this series comfortable to watch. The young actors also aren't bad, doing an OK job for rookie performances. However, I finish the drama wondering whether there's a point to this story. The various scenes feel scattered, not building up thematically or substantially. Any overarching message is lost on me.

My Keychain

• Story F
• Romance D
• Acting D+
• Ending C-
• Style C+
• Grade 47

My Keychain is a short Thai BL series about a school romance. The young protagonist meets his love interest during a random encounter. The keychains in their backpacks accidentally get stuck together. They become chummy after meeting each other, forming a close relationship through innocent schoolboy interactions.

My Keychain has several moments that show a glimmer of potential. Here and there, I enjoy a sweet moment or cute reaction that sways my heart to write a favourable review. I also like the cozy ending that gives me warm, fuzzy vibes. However, the positive memories are fleeting, never lasting enough to make an impression. Instead, I usually feel confused, frustrated, and bored by the juvenile plot. Overall, My Keychain is a rough first effort for a BL series, dipping below average quality. I believe the story, romance, and dialogue could be written significantly better. 

Meow Ears Up

• Story D-
• Romance F
• Acting C
• Ending D
• Style B-
• Grade 46

Meow Ears Up is a Thai BL series about the love story between a human and a humanoid cat. The lonely protagonist adopts a stray cat, only to discover this magical creature can turn into a human form. Although the cat can communicate, he doesn't understand social etiquette or protocols. As the characters live together, they are involved in various comedic hijinks and silly scenarios.

Meow Ears Up is better towards the end. Once the characters become familiar and their relationships are in full swing, the scenes carry a pleasant dynamic. The series almost seems okay if we treat it as carefree, lighthearted fluff. Still, my overall impression remains unfavourable. I don't want to endorse this flawed BL drama with saccharine romances, stupid writing & superficial themes. I also can't cope with an immature love interest who lacks cognitive ability. The bottom line is that I refuse to support a sketchy romance between a human and his unintelligent pet. 

Fahlanruk

• Story F
• Romance C-
• Acting D
• Ending D-
• Style B-
• Grade 44

Fahlanruk is a Thai BL series about two university students who become friends with benefits. Both protagonists are campus playboys, gaining an infamous reputation for their commitment issues. They meet at a bar and hook up in a steamy one-night stand. Their casual fling isn't supposed to be long-term. Yet, they settle into a routine of sleeping together as their relationship becomes ambiguous.

Beyond many tedious scenes, the story is jumbled nonsense. Fahlanruk doesn't know how to structure a cohesive narrative, from clunky plots to awkward exchanges. The series becomes an unintentional comedy since the writing is so laughably amateurish. It's hard to believe anyone approved this dire script with cringy dialogue, blatant exposition, and embarrassing cliches. Each episode tries to sound profound with a philosophical quote about love. Yet, it's impossible to make sense of the muddled themes, which get lost between dumb conflicts and overblown theatrics.

Physical Therapy

• Story F
• Romance D+
• Acting D+
• Ending D-
• Style C+
• Grade 44

Physical Therapy is a Thai BL series about the romance between a doctor and his patient. After a recent injury, the main character is admitted to a healthcare facility, where he receives ongoing treatments. He befriends a handsome doctor who takes a keen interest in his recovery. As their relationship blossoms, the constant drama and surprising setbacks happen around them.

I don't even know how to critique the story because the narrative is incomprehensible. The sloppy, jumbled writing leaves me baffled about what is happening. I can't differentiate between major plots and pointless filler, which blur together thoughtlessly. I also can't identify the characters in the bloated supporting cast with awkward introductions and unclear relationship dynamics. Sometimes, I'm caught off-guard when a mundane subplot makes an inexplicably dramatic escalation. I give up trying to understand the frequent inconsistencies in the storylines.

Mori no Kuma-san

• Story F
• Romance F
• Acting C-
• Ending D
• Style D
• Grade 35

Mori no Kuma-san, Toumin-chuu is a Japanese 18+ BL anime series with humanoid animals. The protagonist is a gentle bear who finds an orphaned baby dog and adopts him in his home. Later, the bear goes into hibernation. When he wakes up, the puppy has matured from infancy and developed a sexual appetite. The characters must figure out the blurry line between a familial bond and an irresistible attraction.

I'm not into steamy erotica with humanoid animals. Admittedly, the characters have close human resemblances, except they possess different ears and tails. Nonetheless, I can't overcome the psychological barrier whenever these beasts get frisky. It doesn't help that Mori no Kuma-san feels lewd and sleazy, operating almost entirely on lust. The anime offers such a shallow interpretation of romance. There's hardly a profound emotional connection between the leads, whose relationship doesn't develop beyond sex.

That's My Candy

• Story F
• Romance F
• Acting D
• Ending F
• Style B
• Grade 27

That's My Candy is a Thai fantasy BL series about a couple facing relationship troubles. The main character is a hardworking nurse with a busy schedule, often neglecting his boyfriend. The couple almost considers breaking up after missing their anniversary due to work conflicts. Suddenly, the protagonist is given magical candies that grant him three wishes to change his life's decisions.

Completing That's My Candy is a painful slog. The flimsy plot goes off the rails with outrageous conflicts, obnoxious comedy, and offensive melodrama. The premise sounds innovative, but the story never does anything creative with this useless gimmick. Instead, most of the series repackages the same old BL tropes, from dull love triangles to dumb misunderstandings. That's My Candy approaches these topics with wacky humour, quirky punchlines, and random zaniness. Sadly, their embarrassing attempts at comedy are seldom funny.

Even Sun

• Story F
• Romance F
• Acting D+
• Ending F
• Style B-
• Grade 25

Even Sun is a Thai BL series about debt collection. The main character works for a debt collection business, although he's lousy at his job. His latest assignment takes him to an island, where he tracks down an intimidating young man who owes money. Although their relationship begins rockily at the start, the leads grow fond of each other throughout a turbulent journey.

Among the many problems with Even Sun, the most significant issue is the preposterous plot. The story begins with debt collection before it strays off-track into inane shenanigans. The illogical narrative lacks coherence, continuity, or cohesiveness from start to finish. Okay, let's just be honest by admitting that nothing makes sense in this series. Even Sun is worse than just random fluff. It's utterly pointless gibberish with a few contrived BL scenarios here and there.

Hard Love Mission

• Story F
• Romance F
• Acting D
• Ending F
• Style B-
• Grade 17

Hard Love Mission is a Thai BL series about an actor, a reporter, and their budding romance. The main character is a journalist who wants to secure a celebrity interview. Yet, this famous idol avoids dealing with the media. The protagonist finds a way to get close to the elusive star at an island resort. He goes on a challenging mission to get his interview request approved.

I'm aghast and abhorred by nearly everything about Hard Love Mission. The decent production values are the only redeeming trait. Yet, the vibrant visuals cannot conceal the ugliness of the disastrous story. The plot is so thoughtless, the romance is so passionless, and the acting is so charmless. I hate Hard Love Mission for wasting my time. It deserves to be in the bottom ranks, listed as one of the worst atrocities committed against the BL genre. Let's never speak about this piece of garbage again.

49 Days With a Merman

• Story A-
• Romance F
• Acting A
• Ending B
• Style A
• Grade 75

49 Days With a Merman is a Taiwanese fantasy drama. An ordinary high school student leads an uneventful life until he suddenly meets an eccentric merman. Unable to return to the sea, the merman must reside in the human world for the time being. He lives in the bathroom belonging to his new companion, as the two characters form a brotherly bond.

49 Days With a Merman is not a BL drama. The male characters never share amorous exchanges, so keep any expectations of romance to zero. However, I still enjoy the upbeat tone, boisterous humour, and energetic vibe. The episodes are packed with bubbly enthusiasm, tackling each zany plot delightfully and hilariously. Best of all, the entertaining momentum is steady and doesn't lose much steam. 49 Days With a Merman takes me on a fun, whimsical journey with laughter, surprises, and coming-of-age drama.

BL Metamorphosis

• Story A
• Romance F
• Acting A
• Ending B+
• Style A-
• Grade 76

BL Metamorphosis is a Japanese movie about the sweet, cozy friendship between an elderly woman and a teenage girl. The main character is a bookstore clerk who befriends a senior customer after discovering their mutual love for BL manga. Despite their age gap, they meet regularly to discuss these love stories. The older protagonist helps her younger companion to overcome self-doubt and embrace this hobby wholeheartedly.

As you can tell, BL Metamorphosis drastically differs from many projects in this genre. No, it is not a BL movie. The plot focuses on the two female fans and their platonic friendship. The plot develops ordinarily, never building to an intense climax, shocking twists, or heated confrontations. Despite the lack of action, I was charmed and engaged throughout this two-hour film. I feel attached to the two endearing protagonists, care about their lives, and root for them to succeed. Both leads do a superb job with their portrayals.

Double

• Story B-
• Romance F
• Acting A
• Ending B+
• Style A
• Grade 73

Double is a Japanese drama about two friends with an unusually codependent relationship. They have been aspiring actors and next-door neighbours for many years, bonding over their love for theatre performances. The main character is his friend's mentor and sees tremendous talent in him. Their rapport changes when one of their careers picks up traction, leaving the other with complicated emotions.

Double has almost no BL content apart from one surprise encounter. Since my reviews focus on the romantic angle, this series loses points for its lack of seduction. Regardless, the leads have a more sophisticated relationship than your average bromance. They love each other in an abstract sense. The blurriness between admiration and attraction is intentional, so you must estimate how deep their bond goes. Still, I don't want to give the wrong idea. Let me reiterate that Double isn't a conventional BL drama. The storyteller defines their feelings vaguely.

Two Office Workers Who Are Too Poisonous for One's Eyes

• Story B-
• Romance D+
• Acting A
• Ending C+
• Style B
• Grade 73

Two Office Workers Who Are Too Poisonous for One's Eyes is a Japanese comedy series. The female protagonist has an overactive imagination and fantasizes about her male coworkers in BL scenarios. After befriending another like-minded employee, they exchange funny commentary about their observations. They speculate whether their two office colleagues are romantically intimate.

The comedy seems funniest in the early episodes when the jokes are fresh. Two Office Workers Who Are Too Poisonous for One's Eyes comes up with wacky scenarios and goofy lines. The sheer absurdity cracks me up. After a while, the humour loses some novelty because you can only get so much mileage out of the same material. Nonetheless, this drama always remains cheerful without diminishing its charm. However, the focus remains on the protagonist's outlandish fantasies instead of developing a real romance between these coworkers.