BL movies are also known as LGBT films or simply gay cinema. Back in the day, movies with gay leads or love interests were considered a narrow niche. These stories didn't particularly appeal to mainstream audiences. Made with low budgets, not many filmmakers got involved in a genre that few people watched. There isn't much box-office profit from producing gay movies.
As a result, you won't find too much diversity in the few mainstream gay movies that got greenlighted. Usually, the story covered solemn topics like AIDS. Or, it was a melodramatic coming-out story rampant with homophobia. Gay movies with Asian characters were even rarer. They existed, but these films weren't numerous. They definitely weren't popular outside of a limited demographic.
With the emerging popularity of BL dramas, the good news is that BL movies have seen a slight uptick in interest. In the past few years, you may have noticed some new BL films popping up here and there. You still won't find too many gay movies in cinemas, but at least it's better than having zero representation.
Typically, BL movies are pretty interesting to watch. Despite having a low budget and casting unknown actors, most projects are done with a lot of passion. They are produced by filmmakers genuinely interested in telling well-crafted LGBT stories. BL Watcher has seen quite a few Asian gay movies in my lifetime. Below are some of my best BL movie recommendations in the genre.
List of BL Movie Recommendations
2022 Movies
2021 Movies
- Beef, Cupcakes & Him (2021)
- Komorebi (2021)
- Light (2021)
- Love Advisor (2021)
- Moneyboys (2021)
- Once in Memory: Love at First Sight (2021)
- Once in Memory: Wish Me Luck (2021)
- Pornographer: Playback (2021)
- Sweet Curse (2021)
- The Immeasurable (2021)
- The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window (2021)
- What Did You Eat Yesterday (2021)
2020 Movies
- A Distant Place (2020)
- Beneath the Shadow (2020)
- Dangerous Drugs of Sex (2020)
- Dear Tenant (2020)
- His (2020)
- Journey to the Shore (2020)
- Location (2020)
- Love Stage (2020)
- Restart After Come Back Home (2020)
- Secret Roommate (2020)
- The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese (2020)
- Your Name Engraved Herein (2020)
2019 Movies
- As If You Whisper (2019)
- Athlete (2019)
- Delivery Boy (2019)
- Departure (2019)
- Dew (2019)
- My Personal Trainer (2019)
- Ossan's Love: Love or Dead (2019)
- Suk Suk (2019)
2018 Movies
2017 Movies
- Malila: The Farewell Flower (2017)
- Secret Spectacles (2017)
- Spring Like a Lover (2017)
- Tilted Summer (2017)
Pre-2017 Movies
- Antique (2008)
- I Go to School Not By Bus (2015)
- Just Friends (2009)
- Red Wine in the Night (2015)
- Sweet Boy (2016)
BL Movies in 2022
BL Metamorphosis (2022)
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.
Adapted from an acclaimed manga, BL Metamorphosis is a warm and gentle movie. It celebrates the Boys Love genre, highlighting the universal appeal for fans of all ages. The story contains admirable messages about friendship, pursuing your passion, and trying new experiences. There's almost no relationship content, so it won't satisfy those who want to watch a traditional BL romance. Nonetheless, I appreciate this uplifting film with a gentle touch.
Cherry Magic! The Movie (2022)
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.
The Cherry Magic movie isn't as enjoyable as its predecessor. The sequel lacks the vibrant energy, creativity, and humour that made the original series a classic. Nonetheless, I still appreciate seeing the characters spend time together and strengthen their relationship. Their romance develops enchantingly. This sweet and sincere story delivers well-meaning messages about love.
Original Sin (2022)
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.
In Original Sin, the protagonist grapples with an intriguing conflict between his faith and his desires. The provocative relationship scenes carry an undercurrent of ambiguity and sexual tension. With a longer length, the film could've expanded its themes, explored the romance, and examined the characters in detail. Ultimately, this twenty-minute movie is too short and doesn't offer enough content to make a lasting impact.
BL Movies in 2021
Beef, Cupcakes & Him (2021)
Beef, Cupcakes and Him is a Vietnamese BL movie about a chef and his childhood acquaintance. The main character was employed at a restaurant until he suddenly lost his job. Subsequently, he teams up with his sister to start an online culinary business from home. The protagonist hires his hometown friend to help with the startup. As they work together, the two leads form a cozy relationship.
The Beef, Cupcakes and Him movie is a cute love story with a straightforward plot. Don't expect too much depth from the linear narrative, one-dimensional villains, or their transparent antics. This short film is serviceable as something light and casual to fill an hour of your time. With that said, it doesn't make a big impression on me.
Komorebi (2021)
Komorebi is a Taiwanese BL movie about a gay son on the verge of coming out to his mother. The main character has gotten married to his childhood sweetheart recently. While his sisters know about them, the mom remains unaware of her son's relationship. At family dinner, the conversation turns to the subject of his mysterious love life, pushing him closer towards honesty.
There is a warm, gentle coming-out story in Komorebi. This short film features relatable characters, realistic reactions, and reassuring messages. Admittedly, the story is limited by its length, unable to elaborate on certain details. Nonetheless, it does a decent job at making the parent-child dynamic feel wholesome and down-to-earth.
Light (2021)
Light is a Taiwanese BL movie about a struggling protagonist caught in a perpetual cycle of abuse. He is routinely beaten by his violent stepfather and used by men who treat him as a sex object. However, he meets a handsome prince charming who rescues him from his downtrodden life. Together, they embark on a journey of healing and recovery.
A highly sensual film, Light will appeal to anyone who likes watching hot guys engage in passionate encounters. The numerous homoerotic scenes are bold, stimulating, and push the envelope beyond your wildest imagination. Unfortunately, the weak plot undermines the sexy moments, and it's tough to take this borderline erotica seriously.
Love Advisor (2021)
Love Advisor is a Thai BL short movie about a fortune teller. The thirty-minute film showcases a lengthy conversation between two friends, who meet for a tea-reading session. What begins as a casual chat leads to dramatic revelations, heated interrogations, and unresolved tensions.
This short film definitely gets points for doing something different. Love Advisor is unique because the entire story occurs during a lengthy chat between the main characters. The movie leans heavily on snappy dialogue, charismatic acting, and surprise twists to carry those thirty minutes. Despite the creative setup, the romance is lacklustre and doesn't measure up to a typical BL narrative.
Moneyboys (2021)
Moneyboys is a Taiwanese movie that explores the world of gay sex workers. Although filmed in the country of Taiwan, the story is supposed to take place in China. The main character comes from an impoverished rural background. He escapes to the city and makes a living as a rentboy. His career comes with many challenges, including physical danger, emotional torment, and financial burdens.
Despite the stylish aesthetic and some meaningful commentary, I don't feel passionate about Moneyboys. There are several inspiring moments, but this gritty gay movie seems excessively melodramatic. The cynical narrative, cliched dialogue, and emotionally distant protagonist fail to connect with me.
Once in Memory: Love at First Sight (2021)
Once in Memory: Love at First Sight is a Thai BL short movie about a cute, innocent teenage crush. The main characters are high school students who secretly like each other. As the pair begins flirting on and off campus, their relationship leads to a love confession. The narrative is divided into two parts. The rest of the story continues in the second film, Once in Memory: Just Found Love.
The two young leads bring solid performances to Once in Memory: Love at First Sight. They have the looks and charisma to carry a casual teen BL drama. Unfortunately, the romance is too lightweight and doesn't make a memorable impression. This forgettable high school love story is unlikely to register in my mind after first sight.
Once in Memory: Wish Me Luck (2021)
Once in Memory: Wish Me Luck is a short Thai BL movie about a camping trip. The main character celebrates his birthday by going on a lakeside getaway with his friends. He is pleasantly surprised to meet an old acquaintance and invites him to join the group excursion. As the two men spend time together, they strengthen their bond in the beautiful outdoors.
The picturesque scenery sets a romantic backdrop for Once in Memory: Wish Me Luck. This short thirty-minute movie portrays a sweet love story with a serene atmosphere. I enjoy the gentle vibes, cozy visuals, and intimate emotions highlighted during this film. However, the slow narrative and thin characterizations bring down my enthusiasm considerably. This laidback BL project doesn't stimulate my excitement.
Pornographer: Playback (2021)
Pornographer: Playback is a Japanese BL film and the final instalment in an ongoing trilogy. It is the movie sequel of The Novelist, continuing the story two years later with the main characters in a rocky long-distance relationship. Faced with personal insecurities and cheating allegations, the couple has hit a rough patch that threatens to end their romance.
The first hour of Pornographer: Playback is overburdened with heavy melodrama. I feel fatigued from the constant heated arguments and emotional angst. This movie sequel does lighten up significantly in the second half, ending the trilogy on a strong, satisfying note.
Sweet Curse (2021)
Sweet Curse is a short Korean BL horror movie. A bewitching spell is placed upon the gay protagonist, who becomes terrorized by a ghost. Every night, he is haunted by bizarre circumstances and strange erotic dreams that intensify dramatically.
Despite its intriguing premise, Sweet Curse suffers from a convoluted story with no satisfying payoff. The narrative feels lost, lacking clarity, coherence, or any emotional impact. Even the provocative nudity cannot save this short movie from being a disappointment.
The Immeasurable (2021)
The Immeasurable is a BL short movie from Taiwan that you can finish in around 20 minutes. In this passionate whirlwind romance, the two main characters meet, hook up, and quickly fall in love. However, the happy couple faces an uneasy tension over their polarizing views, which escalate dramatically.
If we judge The Immeasurable solely as a short movie, it's astounding what the narrative accomplishes in twenty minutes. The compact journey is packed with steamy passion, vibrant emotions, and atmospheric cinematography. I was intrigued by what I saw, but the film needed more content to elevate the juicy story to a higher tier of BL.
The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window (2021)
The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window is a supernatural horror movie adapted from a Japanese BL manga. The protagonist can see ghosts and spirits, even though he isn't comfortable interacting with the paranormal world. He partners up with a mysterious exorcist to solve a series of gruesome murders around the city.
Although this movie adaptation looks slick and stylish, The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window doesn't feel coherent for those unfamiliar with the source material. As someone who has not read the original manga, the complex plot moved too rapidly and confused me. I couldn't connect with the complex story, the bland characters, or the nonexistent relationship.
What Did You Eat Yesterday? (2021)
The What Did You Eat Yesterday movie is the sequel to the Japanese BL drama. This slice-of-life story focuses on a middle-aged gay couple who live together. The film begins with the closeted protagonist taking his boyfriend on vacation, showing a surprising amount of openness in public. His partner is flattered, but he begins to wonder what could have prompted this uncharacteristic change in behaviour.
If you loved the original drama, you'd definitely enjoy the What Did You Eat Yesterday movie. This excellent follow-up replicates the successful formula, carrying the same hilarious humour, nuanced storytelling, and tasty recipes. Beneath the charming comedy, the film gently approaches emotional themes about family, relationships, and long-term commitment.
BL Movies in 2020
A Distant Place (2020)
A Distant Place is a Korean movie about a gay farmer and his quiet life in the countryside. He raises a young child with the small rural community supporting them. His lover from the city moves in and settles down, forming a cozy family unit. However, their idyllic lifestyle is disrupted by an unwelcomed arrival.
In recent years, there has been an influx of sad gay movies that take place in the countryside. A Distant Place is a worthy addition to the list, impressing me with its melancholic story and beautiful visuals. This meaningful film captures the struggles of the down-to-earth characters, highlighting the nuanced themes of family and conformity.
Beneath the Shadow (2020)
Beneath the Shadow is a Japanese movie that explores the depth of loneliness. The main character is a single gay man leading a monotonous life, until he befriends a rebellious coworker who adds excitement to his usual routine. However, his new friend proves to be an enigma, hiding his true intentions beneath an ambiguous façade.
At over two hours long, I suspect many people will find Beneath the Shadow to be too long, too slow, and too boring, especially with such a disappointing romance. Nevertheless, this sombre film resonated with me on a deeper level, making me ponder about the poignant emotions and its philosophical message.
Dangerous Drugs of Sex (2020)
Dangerous Drugs of Sex is a Japanese horror movie adapted from a BL manga. In this explicit 18+ film, the main character is abducted, tortured, and sexually assaulted by his demented captor. You wouldn’t expect any romance to take place amid the disturbing events, but there’s a bizarre relationship squeezed into the film somehow.
With some gruesome and graphic scenes, Dangerous Drugs of Sex is not meant for the faint of hearts. The storyline is definitely shocking, controversial, and provocative. I can’t say that I actually enjoyed this film, but at least it made quite the impression on me.
Dear Tenant (2020)
Dear Tenant is a critically acclaimed Taiwanese movie, featuring a gay protagonist, his adopted child, and their poignant family drama. The main character is a widower taking care of his partner's son and an ailing mother-in-law. However, he becomes engulfed in controversy after facing severe police allegations. Emotions run high as the story unravels, revealing the truth behind the accusations against him.
Powered by phenomenal acting performances, this profound film explores the themes of pain, trauma, and loss poignantly. Dear Tenant tends to overindulge in melodrama and tragedy, becoming too emotionally heavy to watch in some places. However, it's still a multifaceted LGBT movie with a special message to convey.
His (2020)
His is a Japanese BL movie about two ex-boyfriends who reunite years later in a small rural town. One of them is a divorced father, who’s currently in an intense custody battle over his daughter. Reluctantly, his former lover offers them a place to stay at his house, in a peculiar living arrangement that’s bound to have the neighbours gossiping.
Although His is technically the movie sequel of His: I Didn’t Think I Would Fall in Love, the standalone film can be watched with no prior knowledge of the story. This is a slow and atmospheric movie, depicting the heartbreak of two repressed gay men. Even during the happier moments, you can’t shake away the sense of melancholy that is prevalent throughout His.
Journey to the Shore (2020)
Journey to the Shore is a Korean BL movie about two high school students in a secret romance. The couple goes on a trip to a distant beachside town, far away from their peers and acquaintances. They enjoy their alone time together, working up the courage to display physical affection in public. Beneath their momentary happiness, these boyfriends feel troubled by a grim and depressing future.
I am wowed by Journey to the Shore, an excellent short film that conveys a beautifully poignant gay love story. The complex characters, their intimate relationship, and many heartbreaking emotions come together in this well-crafted narrative. The wistful romance is supported by two talented actors who bring charisma, authenticity, and gravitas to their performances.
Location (2020)
Location is a short Thai BL movie about a sweet and simple romance between two neighbours. The main character is a bubbly high school student who recently moved into a new house. He forms a friendship with his next-door neighbour, as the two teenagers bond over music, school, and their aspirations.
If you're in the mood for a quick and light love story, Location is a pleasant film that wraps up neatly within an hour. Although the plot is not that substantial, this endearing movie powers through on the strength of its casual charm. There're enjoyable characters, a wholesome romance, and even a couple of songs.
Love Stage (2020)
Love Stage!! is a Japanese BL movie about a famous actor who pursues his childhood crush from ten years ago. He's shocked to discover that his crush is actually another man, who only dressed up as a girl to play the female role in an acting gig. Nonetheless, this revelation does not deter his initial feelings, and he decides to go forward with a romantic relationship anyway.
Adapted from a manga, the story in Love Stage doesn't particularly translate well in a live-action movie. This film misses the mark with its shallowly developed romance, poor comedic timing, and awkward storytelling that highlights all the flaws in its frivolous plot.
Restart After Come Back Home (2020)
Restart After Come Back Home is a Japanese BL movie that takes place in a small, sleepy rural town. After losing his job in the city, the main character returns home to inherit the family business, but faces tension with his strict father. Feeling lost, he befriends a bubbly farmer around his age and begins working on the farm with him. Both of them are surprised when their platonic friendship develops into something more.
Adapted from a manga, Restart After Come Back Home is a wholesome film packed with lots of countryside charm. The endearing lead characters elevate a simple yet heartwarming story, which touches upon themes of family, friendship, and personal growth.
Secret Roommate (2020)
Secret Roommate is a short Korean BL movie about a gay couple who live together. Their living arrangement is interrupted when the lead character's younger brother makes a sudden arrival. He becomes an unknowing third wheel in their relationship, as they try to disguise their romance around him.
Using a simple scenario, Secret Roommate creates an amusing and lighthearted short film that hits all the right notes. It mixes romance with comedy and family drama effectively in twenty minutes. The movie also ends cleverly, wrapping up an excellent story in a satisfying way.
The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese (2020)
The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese is a Japanese BL movie based on a manga. The main character is an unfaithful married man cheating on his wife. When his detective friend discovers about the affair, he agrees to keep it a secret in exchange for a passionate kiss. Their first kiss unlocks a turbulent relationship between the pair, in a journey filled with desire, mistrust, and heartbreak.
Although the characters in The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese are troubled and flawed, their volatile romance is deeply compelling to watch. This unconventional love story is backed by steamy moments, delicate emotions, and powerful acting performances.
Your Name Engraved Herein (2020)
Your Name Engraved Herein is a Taiwanese BL movie, depicting a gay high school romance in the 1980s. The main characters are two students who have fallen in love during a forbidden era and cannot openly express their love for each other. As these teenagers navigate their confused feelings, they experience the excitement, confusion, and heartbreak associated with first love.
There's an epic and poignant love story in Your Name Engraved Herein, backed by solid acting and stellar production. This film is a beautifully told LGBT romance that will resonate with many viewers. You may have to watch the movie closely to appreciate all the subtleties in its nuanced storytelling.
BL Movies in 2019
As If You Whisper (2019)
As If You Whisper is a Korean BL movie about an aspiring singer at the start of his career. Just when he struggles to gain traction in the music industry, the main character meets his biggest fan. The two men develop a close bond that gradually grows into a secret relationship.
With a mix of soft music and gentle romance, As If You Whisper shines brightly during several moments. However, the story suffers from some clumsiness that holds back its potential. It could have benefited from a smoother narrative, better character development, and more emphasis on the love story.
Athlete (2019)
Athlete is a Japanese BL movie about a former pro swimmer, who takes on a young male lover after his divorce. Although there are lots of passion in the relationship, they come to discover their lifestyles are incompatible with each other. The two of them have different expectations when it comes to stability, commitment, and spending the future together.
Even though Athlete starts out intriguingly, the movie loses direction and feels aimless after a while. The messaging seems muddled amid the manufactured conflict, unclear character motivations, and a romance that fizzles out by the end of the film.
Delivery Boy (2019)
Delivery Boy is an English-speaking gay movie made in Hong Kong. This short film is about a delivery worker with a secret crush on his regular customer. One day, an unexpected opportunity allows the characters to interact for the first time. They form an easygoing rapport that develops into something more.
I enjoy the novelty of an English-language gay movie in Hong Kong. Otherwise, Delivery Boy is a pretty ordinary short film with a basic plot. It tells a cute and compact love story in fifteen minutes. However, it doesn't differentiate from the typical BL romances you've already seen in this genre.
Departure (2019)
Departure is a Taiwanese short gay movie about two exes sharing a meal after their break-up. The protagonist meets his old boyfriend at a restaurant, where they chat and eat dinner. As past feelings and fond memories resurface, the main character tries to reconnect with his former lover.
Although the sad love story may not appeal to some BL fans, Departure is a well-written short film. It uses a relatable plot, clever symbolism, and subtle emotions to depict the heartbreak after a relationship ends. This thoughtful movie explores longing, loneliness, and lovelessness meaningfully.
Dew (2019)
Dew is a Thai BL movie about a tragic high school love story. The main characters are two lovestruck teenagers living in a homophobic small town. As their friendship blossoms into a secret romance, the young couple must navigate carefully amid hostility from their closed-minded families. The film's second half occurs years later, exploring a drastically different relationship dynamic in the future.
Despite the handsome cast and occasionally emotional moments, Dew is a disappointing movie. The film's first half is a tragic gay romance surrounded by hysterical melodrama. The second half amplifies the theatrics while simultaneously eradicating the BL content. I struggle to enjoy the cringy dialogue, rushed pacing, and offensive plot developments.
My Personal Trainer (2019)
My Personal Trainer is a silly and campy Korean BL comedy. In this short movie, the main character and his friends begin a gym membership. The protagonist meets his beefy personal trainer, who is touchy-feely. The two men are eager to spend one-on-one time and get to know each other better.
Even if the comedy is pretty low-brow, you may get a cheap laugh or two from My Personal Trainer. This short film is supposed to be frivolous with dumb humour, shallow plots, and ridiculous characters. Although it doesn't have much literary merit, I wouldn't take this harmless little movie too seriously. It's cute enough for twenty minutes and may make you giggle once or twice.
Ossan's Love: Love or Dead (2019)
Ossan’s Love: Love or Dead is the movie sequel of the popular Japanese BL drama, Ossan’s Love. This action comedy takes place a year after the original series, where the protagonist returns home after spending a year abroad. However, there’s a hostile takeover of his workplace, leading to increasingly hectic events. His relationship also goes through a dramatic change, and the couple’s love for each other may not endure the latest hardships.
Story-wise, Ossan's Love: Love or Dead is a total mess, with an outlandish plot that muddles its intended message. Nonetheless, there’s plenty of boisterous energy and slapstick humour that you will recognize from the original drama. When the Ossan's Love movie chooses to be serious, it is capable of delivering deep and powerful emotions that I wished we saw more of.
Suk Suk (2019)
Also known as Twilight's Kiss, Suk Suk is a Hong Kong movie about a secret romance between two elderly gay men. Both characters are deeply closeted seniors who married, raised children, and led conventionally heterosexual lives. Yet, they fall in love at an unlikely age, maintaining a forbidden affair that their families can never know.
Suk Suk is a rare gem that stands out exquisitely in the genre of gay cinema. It showcases a tender and affectionate relationship between two older men, something you won't see in many LGBT films. This subtle movie makes a stunning impression with its complex characters, elegant storytelling, and poignant tone.
BL Movies in 2018
Dear Ex (2018)
In the Taiwanese movie Dear Ex, the gay main character is in mourning after his lover passed away. He spends time with his partner's vengeful ex-wife and rebellious teenage son, forming complicated relationships with them. The three of them must navigate their trauma while dealing with resentment, rage, and confusion.
Despite the heavy subject matter, Dear Ex is not a typical tearjerker movie about grief and loss. It successfully balances the melancholy with a quirky and offbeat tone, almost defiant in its irreverent approach towards death. Although the characters are deeply flawed, they go on nuanced journeys that unfold with sophisticated emotions.
My Pistachio (2018)
My Pistachio is a short Korean BL movie about an aspiring actor and a student director. The main character recently joined his school's drama club, but he clashes with one of its key members. As they work together in an upcoming play, these two theatre enthusiasts discover a growing rapport.
I was underwhelmed by My Pistachio, finding this BL film too average and low-key. The story's simplicity isn't a problem, but I couldn't connect with the flat characters or their dry relationship dynamic. The narrative doesn't move me, leaving behind a feeling of tepid indifference.
Some More (2018)
Some More is a Korean BL movie about a gentle countryside romance. A traveller from the city accidentally ends up on a farm, where he befriends a soft-spoken resident. This friendly farmer shows his new acquaintance the wonders of the outdoors. The two men navigate their developing feelings over the next few days.
I really enjoy the warm, sunny, and relaxing vibe in Some More. The serene surroundings provide the idyllic setting for this sexy love story to thrive. The couple has excellent chemistry, backed by intriguing sexual tension and passionate encounters. Everything about this BL short film feels easygoing and effortless.
Step for You (2018)
Step for You is a short Korean BL movie about a simple university romance. The lead is a student journalist who works for the school newsletter. His assignment is to report about an up-and-coming dancer on campus. When the two characters meet, the interview isn't as straightforward as intended. An intriguing relationship develops between the pair.
Elegant in its simplicity, Step for You is an enjoyable short film with a sweet love story. Although the narrative doesn't develop the plot or characters with complexity in twenty minutes, the events are easy to follow. The BL relationship feels easygoing, comfortable, and natural.
Table Manner (2018)
Table Manner is a Korean BL short movie about two exes reuniting in a restaurant. The protagonist celebrates his birthday by enjoying dinner with his new lover. However, he stumbles upon an ex-boyfriend from the past. Caught in an awkward situation, the three men navigate between heated confrontations and sexual tension during a complicated evening.
Instead of following the standard BL love story, Table Manner offers a slightly more cynical take on romance. It highlights the uneasy transition between a breakup and a rebound relationship. Although the plot sounds intriguing in theory, this twenty-minute film lacks excitement. The story feels flat, mundane, and devoid of adrenaline.
BL Movies in 2017
Malila: The Farewell Flower (2017)
Malila: The Farewell Flower is a Thai movie about two former lovers who reunite in a rural village. Both men have experienced devastating tragedies that changed their lives dramatically. After meeting again, the grieving characters spend intimate time together and navigate their rekindled feelings.
Beautifully filmed and powerfully acted, Malila: The Farewell Flower is thought-provoking. The poignant narrative explores philosophical themes like death, loss, and enlightenment. Unfortunately, I didn't love the film's second half, finding many scenes too slow and gruesome. As much as I appreciate the artistic merits, I needed a reprieve from the heavy ideologies towards the end.
Secret Spectacles (2017)
Secret Spectacles is a short Korean gay movie about a pair of magical glasses. The main character's new specs gives him the extraordinary vision to see through clothes. He uses this voyeuristic ability on his university crush, hoping to catch a glimpse of him undressed. What happens next does not go as planned.
With a naughty premise, Secret Spectacles plays out like an erotic fantasy than a BL romance. The movie suffers from a small and limited plot, which doesn't expand beyond the basic concept of wanting to see your friend naked. The experience is unsatisfying whether you watch it for the barebones love story or the lacklustre fetishism.
Spring Like a Lover (2017)
Spring Like a Lover is a Japanese movie about three gay men and their intertwining love lives. The main characters are going through a rough patch in their relationship. After an argument, one of the leads revisits his ex-boyfriend, who is now married to a woman. When old feelings rekindle between the pair, this complicated love triangle leads to tears, confrontations, and violence.
Enjoyable for the wrong reasons, Spring Like a Lover will appeal to those who secretly appreciate messy BL movies. This short 18+ film features flawed, miserable characters who make many mistakes in their explosive relationship drama. Although the story is a total disaster, I can't look away from the chaotic trainwreck.
Tilted Summer (2017)
Tilted Summer is a short Korean BL movie about a couple on their anniversary trip. When their vacation plans go awry, they must spend an uncomfortable evening at a hostel instead. Tensions rise between the leads as they clash over their new surroundings. Their relationship becomes more and more strained throughout the night, almost reaching its breaking point.
I don't think Tilted Summer will appeal to most BL fans. Contrary to the conventional romance, this short film depicts a feuding couple in an unflattering light. A part of me likes that it goes against the grain and tells a different kind of story than the usual formula. Ultimately, the indie movie stumbles and fails to convey poignant relationship melodrama.
Other BL Films
Antique (2008)
Antique is the Korean movie adaptation of the Antique Bakery manga. The film focuses on a pastry shop owner and an openly gay patisserie, who share a tricky relationship dynamic. Joined by other quirky employees, they work together in a cheery, cozy, and chaotic environment.
Although Antique looks stylish and vibrant, it misses the mark with muddled storytelling. The narrative is an incoherent mess and all the characters come across as shallow caricatures. Plus, the homophobia is outrageously rampant with gay sexuality often antagonized or depicted as the butt of the joke.
I Go To School Not By Bus (2015)
I Go To School Not By Bus is a Hong Kong BL movie about a high school romance. An artistic student and his athletic classmate begin a sweet friendship that develops into a romantic attraction. However, they are constantly challenged by nosy classmates and homophobic teachers, making them self-conscious about their close bond.
Despite the silly name, I Go To School Not By Bus features a sincere and heartfelt connection between two gay youths. This short film uses its thirty minutes effectively, conveying an authentic relationship with engaging drama. The movie's second half feels a bit incomplete, making me wish the story could have been expanded fully.
Just Friends (2009)
Made in 2009, Just Friends? is a Korean short movie about a young gay couple. The main character visits his boyfriend, who currently serves in the military. Despite their loving relationship, the two men are discreet about this secret romance. They must hide their covert flirting and intimate exchanges in the presence of family.
Just Friends is a fun, delightful, and campy gay movie. The bold coming-out story highlights an adorable romance, supported by astute social commentary that is still relevant today. This film also has a charming couple, racy encounters, tongue-in-cheek humour, and energetic musical numbers. It absolutely succeeds in entertaining me throughout the thirty minutes.
Red Wine in the Night (2015)
Red Wine in the Night is a Thai supernatural thriller that focuses on a precarious gay romance. The protagonist is a young man who has been unlucky in love, until he meets a mysterious stranger inside an abandoned building. When the stranger's secret identity comes to light, the two main characters embark on a journey filled with passion, tension, and bloodshed.
Although the plot in Red Wine in the Night is borderline ridiculous, I still found this movie enjoyable, entertaining, and exhilarating to watch. Packed with steamy kisses and fit guys in their underwear, I had a lot of fun indulging myself in this delightfully decadent story.
Sweet Boy (2016)
Sweet Boy is a Thai BL movie about a high school student entangled in scandalous campus drama. The main character excels academically, but he is inexperienced with romance and slowly navigates his sexuality. In his journey of self-enlightenment, he is faced with savage bullying, lustful desires, and heartbreaking love affairs.
I write this review solely to warn people about Sweet Boy, an abysmal movie that I regretted upon watching it. This disturbing story is the exact opposite of sweet. The film leaves an unpleasant aftertaste with its amateurish writing, problematic tropes, and irresponsible portrayals.