Be My Favorite – Series Review & Ending Explained

Episode 1

Episode 1 Review

My first impression of the series is irritation. OMG, this main character is ANNOYING! Kawi's hostility toward Pisaeng seems unwarranted. Pisaeng does nothing wrong in this situation, but Kawi's low self-esteem creates an imaginary rivalry. I'm not a fan of how the actor (Krist) portrays him. The perkiness seems forced, like it isn't part of his natural personality. That said, I'm willing to give Kawi some grace. It's the first episode, where stories typically introduce the protagonist's flaws. I assume his rehabilitation will occur in the future.

Before Be My Favorite started, there was a casting change. The original lead was supposed to be Mike, but Gawin replaced him midway. While I don't know the circumstances behind the scenes, I feel bad for Mike. After years of supporting parts, he finally lands his first leading role in a series, only to get dropped. That's rough. The optimist in me hopes he gets another chance, but… *sighs* 😢 Nonetheless, Gawin is a good fit for Pisaeng's character. He carries the suaveness of a university campus stud, yet he doesn't come across as snooty. I see the vision behind this casting choice.

Episode 2

Episode 2 Review

The time travel concept is cool! I like how the protagonist travels between the two timelines. His actions in the past impact the future, and he sees the immediate consequences. It's a creative narrative device to stimulate Kawi's character development. Kawi reflects on what he did wrong and uses his second chance for self-improvement. Despite the power of foresight, things don't go as planned. Either he reverts to his old habits, or life throws new curveballs at him. Kawi learns a lot about himself through trial and error.

I like this episode because it shows the story's immense potential. The premiere didn't excite me, whereas this episode fills my mind with possibilities. There's so much Kawi can do with his time-travel powers. Knowing him, he'll probably abuse the ability and screw up his life lol. I'm curious about how his journey will develop. So far, the events are already hilarious. Kawi returns to the future and unexpectedly discovers he has become a homewrecker. Not him destroying a heterosexual marriage and converting the groom! The BL version of the butterfly effect is cracking me up. 😆

Episode 3

Episode 3 Review

I'm not super invested in the love triangle drama. However, I like how the story sets up the group dynamics. Kawi likes Pear, but she likes Pisaeng, even though he likes Kawi. There's a complex interplay of relationships among the three characters where nobody reciprocates each other's feelings. The time travel aspect adds complexity. Kawi knows about Pisaeng's attraction to him in the future, but they're still platonic friends in the present. The tension between them is intriguing.

In the last scene, Kawi describes feeling unsafe around Pisaeng. On the one hand, his discomfort is valid. Future Pisaeng ambushes him with an unwanted sexual advance, causing Kawi to be leery of his companion. On the other hand, Past Pisaeng hasn't done anything wrong thus far. He behaves graciously toward his new friend. Yet, Kawi holds Pisaeng's future misconduct against him and lashes out. Is Past Pisaeng the same entity as Future Pisaeng? The story presents a fascinating moral conundrum that makes me ponder the characters' perspectives.

"You two talk. I'll go eat in the bathroom." LOL. Kawi is such a weirdo. At times, I see fleeting glimpses of Kawi's charm. His quirkiness can be endearing. However, Kawi's behaviour is also annoying. From childish tantrums to incessant neuroticism, his personality bothers me. Kawi is gifted a valuable second chance to redo his life. He has the power to do so much with this precious opportunity. Yet, he constantly whines and feels sorry for himself. Three episodes in, I'm already fed up with him. Can his character rehabilitation come faster?

Episode 4

Episode 4 Review

This episode contains several intimate conversations. First, Pear rejects Kawi's confession. Then, Kawi and Pisaeng have a heated confrontation. Later, Pisaeng clarifies his relationship with Pear. These exchanges are well-written, thoughtfully considering each character's feelings and perspectives as they experience heartbreak. Kawi, Pear, and Pisaeng have different responses to unreciprocated love. Kawi is upset, whereas Pear puts on a brave face and maintains her composure. Meanwhile, Pisaeng learns to be honest with himself.

Argh, those college seniors are jerks! 😠 Although Kawi has an irritating personality, I don't like seeing him bullied by these asshats. The scene where they eavesdrop on Kawi and Pear leaves a bad taste. Firstly, listening in on someone else's conversation is inappropriate, like an invasion of privacy. Secondly, I hate how they treat Kawi's feelings like entertainment. It takes enormous courage for the socially awkward Kawi to confess. Yet, these students mock and laugh at his vulnerability. Their nastiness undermines the sensitive exchange between Kawi and Pear.

Episode 5

Episode 5 Review

I adore Pisaeng's character arc in this episode. Pisaeng comes to terms with his sexuality before he reveals his love to Kawi. He goes on a journey from self-doubt to self-acceptance. By highlighting his transformation, the series adds nuance to the confession scene. We saw how much Pisaeng overcame to become honest with his feelings, so there's more emotional weight. Kawi rejects Pisaeng, but the story doesn't dwell on heartbreak. Instead, it celebrates Pisaeng's growth, clarity, and honesty as he enters the gay bar confidently.

Max is great. I love the advice he gives the protagonists in this episode. Kawi freaks out about Pisaeng's feelings and wants to avoid him. However, Max astutely points out how Pisaeng has always shown tolerance & understanding toward his friend. Shouldn't Kawi return the favour? Likewise, Max supports Pisaeng and listens to his problems. He shows admirable allyship toward another member of the gay community. Max plays a significant role in bringing the two leads together for their love confession scene. He encourages both to be honest and communicate.

I have a pet peeve. I'm tired of GMMTV constantly turning their protagonists into singers. Their BL dramas have a disproportionate amount of main characters with musical ambitions. Every series, expect a shoehorned scene where the lead sits on a chair and serenades with his guitar. La dee la, here's my sappy love song for youuuu~ Be My Favorite has this issue, but the trend is prevalent in other projects too. I know the agenda is to sell concert tickets IRL, but these performances have lost their novelty. Mix it up! Play other instruments like bongo drums or the trombone!

Episode 6

Episode 6 Review

Kawi's reaction at Pear's house is bizarre. You want an enormous favour to save your dying father's life. Yet, you leave abruptly during dinner because you need to yell at Pisaeng. Why is this your priority? Swallow your pride and focus on securing that medical appointment for your dad! Kawi's sudden departure disrespects Pear, who is trying to help him. Even if you're upset at Pisaeng, you don't have to confront him immediately. Show some emotional restraint and finish your meal!

Kawi was offended because Pear and Pisaeng discussed family matters behind his back, almost like gossip. However, I don't interpret it that way. From my perspective, Pear and Pisaeng are two supportive friends who want to help Kawi's dad. Their intentions are well-meaning, yet Kawi reacts like he was wronged. 😓 Thankfully, Pear is a sweetheart. She brushes off the dinner mishaps and responds like a class act. Pear's compassion shines brightly in this episode, making me root for her character. She deserves better than to end up with Not. Stay away from her, loser!

Kawi's dad hesitates to get the medical procedure because he worries about the cost. "I don't want to be your burden," Kawi's father tells him. I like how the series adds nuance to the storyline. The conflict doesn't end after Kawi secures an appointment. Instead, the narrative delves deeper and explores the father's perspective. I'm moved by Kawi's passionate plea to his dad to persuade him. You can sense the urgency behind every heartfelt word. The evocative dialogue has a significant emotional impact, highlighting Kawi's love and concern for his family.

Episode 7

Episode 7 Review

Theoretically, I like the concept of this episode. Kawi discovers he is successful in the future, but he remains unhappy with his life. However, all the scenarios in the darkest timeline seem bizarre. Kawi is an alcoholic, Pear marries Not, and Pisaeng becomes a hermit. WTF. These extreme outcomes seem random. I would've liked to see how the characters reached rock bottom in their lives. What were their experiences? Instead, the story skips the journey and jumps to the results. That's not very fun.

This episode also contains elements that I dislike about the series. Firstly, there's too much heterosexual love triangle drama. Out of all the men in the world, Pear and Kwan insist on fighting over the worst guy imaginable. What do they see in Not!? I can't sympathize with those who sabotage themselves. Secondly, Kawi behaves even more annoyingly than usual. Kawi is only bearable in scenes with Pisaeng, who neutralizes his obnoxiousness. Otherwise, he's a neurotic mess. And thirdly, I must sit through another song and another serenade. These musical numbers feel like filler. 

Episode 8

Episode 8 Review

I like this episode because it moves the story forward. It's about time to wrap up these old plots. One, Kawi closes the chapter on his dad. I appreciate the gutsiness to kill off the main character's father, highlighting the inevitability of destiny. Despite all of Kawi's efforts, he's powerless against fate. And two, the leads have started dating. Finally! Their relationship has gone through many emotional ups and downs, from rejections to misunderstandings. I'm relieved the turmoil is behind us. Let this couple be happy!

Some BL series don't address LGBTQ+ topics. Others may have representation, but the emphasis is on homophobia or coming out. What I like about Be My Favorite is that it celebrates advocacy. This episode contains a scene where Max & Kawi attend an event that promotes equal rights. It's a small yet meaningful display of activism. Lately, GMMTV has included more progressive themes in its BL dramas. I respect the studio for using its powerful platform to send positive messages. As the industry leader, it sets an example for others to tell empowering gay stories that raise awareness.

Episode 9

Episode 9 Review

Pisaeng is a likeable protagonist with a level-headed personality. I don't mind him most of the time. However, Pisaeng's least appealing trait is his disregard for physical boundaries. The kiss in Episode 2 and the encounter in Episode 6 are iffy moments that raise red flags. Feeling confused or being influenced by alcohol cannot excuse problematic behaviour. Pisaeng's antics in this episode are also concerning. His advances make Kawi visibly uncomfortable. I want Pisaeng to be respectful and conscious of personal space.

The relationship drama is tiresome. I understand why Pear is upset about Kawi & Pisaeng dating, but her scenes are tedious. The more fascinating storyline is Kawi's moral dilemma. His happiness with Pisaeng comes at the expense of hurting Pear's feelings. Although Kawi's life improves in this timeline, Pear appears worse off. I like how the series examines Kawi's conscience, offering insights into his guilt. Kawi is pessimistic and worries he ruined Pear's life. Yet, Pisaeng thinks optimistically. Even though the present seems grim, Pisaeng reassures Kawi the future will work out in their favour.

Episode 10

Episode 10 Review

Thank goodness Pear and Kwan didn't let that toad come between their friendship! I'm also glad Pear has overcome her turmoil from the last episode. Even though her subplot is dull, I like that the series fleshes out her perspective. Pear doesn't just accept the news of Kawi & Pisaeng's relationship with immediate understanding. Instead, she processes her feelings, cries a bit, and eventually reaches a sensible response. Pear goes on an emotional journey as she rises from her heartbreak and becomes more self-assured.

I always look forward to what Max wears in each appearance. His character is like an eclectic fashion statement, from sparkly shirts to sleeveless vests. Everyone else dresses in plain clothes, whereas Max's outfits are quirky and distinctive. I love the gay punk chic of his wardrobe in this episode~ I wish Max had a more prominent presence in Be My Favorite. While I like this supporting character, his role is minimal. He's mostly there to act as a relationship guru and dispense wise advice. There's room to grow his backstory, give him a love interest, and create a more nuanced role.

In this episode, Kawi overcomes his anxiety about having sex for the first time. Meanwhile, Pisaeng and his mom reach an understanding about his sexuality. Both plots are fine, and I enjoy watching the events unfold. However, these storylines are typical. They are ideas that we've seen before. Be My Favorite loses a touch of its creativity. The series started with an exciting time-travel premise about altering the future. Yet, the last few episodes have settled into generic plots. For a BL drama with many possibilities, it could've delivered more unique scenarios.

Episode 11

Episode 11 Review

Pear reciting sad poetry while her two male love interests have sex is high camp. The scenario plays out hilariously. Pear stands on stage and reads random passages about swans, rice fields, or whatever. Her narration is spliced with steamy visuals of Kawi and Pisaeng making love. The juxtaposition of her words and their romp strikes me as comically jarring. I laughed throughout the entire exchange. It's my favourite scene of the series due to the sheer absurdity. Be My Favorite has delivered a masterclass in camp! 😁

Kawi and Pisaeng's romance hadn't moved me thus far. I didn't hate the couple, but their scenes failed to sway my heart. That changed during this episode. Seeing that four-minute relationship montage triggered an emotional response in me. I like the quick snapshots of the couple's happiest moments living together. They share meals, cuddle in bed, or hang out idly. The casual day-to-day routine is surprisingly sweet, highlighting their coziness and conveying ordinary joy. The inexplicable power of one montage converted my indifference into a fondness for this pairing.

Episode 12

Ending Review

Be My Favorite is a story about contentment. The protagonists learn to be satisfied with their current lives, even if there may be flaws. The series began with Kawi returning to the past to fix his regrets. Kawi discovered his life would never be perfect, no matter how he tried manipulating the timelines. Instead, Kawi drops his pessimistic view and adopts optimistic thinking. One of his quotes in the finale reflects this theme, "I'm happy just the way I am now." Kawi cherishes what he has instead of desiring the unattainable.

Future Pisaeng and Past Kawi enjoy a day at the amusement park. Unlike previously, Kawi participates in the scary rides. His willingness is a testament to the story's theme of living fearlessly. The best way to avoid regrets is to embrace every experience and opportunity, even if it's out of your comfort zone. If you fulfill your heart's desires in the present moment, you won't look back at the past with remorse. Free your insecurities and live to the fullest! Pisaeng & Kawi's car ride is symbolism. The open-roof vehicle represents freedom, while the drive conveys moving your life forward. 

Some future events, like a health crisis, are out of your control. The story maintains the stance that you can't manipulate death. Everyone dies at one point. Kawi and Pisaeng must accept their fates are final. Yet, don't let this fear restrict your happiness. As Kawi says, "Live like we never want to go back and fix it." His words echo the concept of living ambitiously. Forget what transpired in the past or what may happen in the future. Focus on the present and spend your time on fulfilling experiences. You'll die with no regrets, knowing you've lived your favourite life possible.