A shaky, TERRIBLE start to GMM GLs

The more I think about 23.5, the more I think about it's wasted potential. This could have been an amazing first series that would skyrocket GL to as much popularity as BL, but that won't be the case, at least with this one.

I came for MilkLove and will stay only because of them. My overall issues:

-> The fact Ongsa and Sun could not have LESS valid reasons to like each other than in this series! There is zero explanation or motive as to why either of them actually started liking each other.

-> Chemistry, who is she?! There is no chemistry between their characters. The awkwardness, the long moments of silence, the lack of any substance in their few brief conversations, the list goes on. I'm sad to see this considering they had FIRE chemistry in Bad Buddy.

-> Everything can be summed up with BORING. The reveal of Earth was supposed to be a big thing, like the main turning point of the plot. But everything was rushed, revealed, and solved in a single episode mid-series. Everything is a blur and felt like nothing ever happened.

-> Despite being set up as a main character, Sun was given a crumb of screen time. Even less than the side couple and side characters.

-> FLAT characters. Little to no character development, no pasts, no desires, and no passions. It feels like every character was written only as people who are supposed to be in love because they told us so.

I wouldn't recommend this series at all, but I have hope for the GL industry. Little effort was put into 23.5 overall, and it shows.

Leia Mais

Why I (Probably) Won't Watch Season 3

I was very disappointed with this season - The same issues from season 1 are in this one, possibly even worse than before.

Physical 100 claims to go beyond race, age, and gender. But there’s little to no chance a woman can win.
Why? Because the producers only recruit a handful of women for the show compared to the outstanding majority being men. Also, almost all challenges are exclusively reliant on upper body strength, or at least heavily favor it.

This also makes winning impossible for anyone who doesn't have most of their strength in their upper body, regardless of gender. Only a few types of athletes and physical professionals have a shot at victory. It makes the show not only biased but also just plain boring and predictable.

Another major flaw is that the winner is heavily determined by luck - Even one of the participants admitted it in the final episode! The contestants’ fates of moving on to the next round rely on the order of challenges. Many challenges aren't even determined by sheer strength but by your team. A strong person is easily eliminated from things out of their control: leader strategy, who chooses them for their team, opponents stealing, etc.

Finally, revisiting the "beyond race" statement - I get that Physical 100 (so far) is mainly for Korean physical professionals, but claiming that this is a show that goes beyond race is laughable. This season had 3 out of 100 people who aren't full Korean. I just wish they wouldn't lie.

A lot of the show's issues could be solved with JUST THIS: relevant body strength. It's much more impressive to see a petite gal upholding 40% of her body weight instead of a muscular guy picking up a bit more than another muscular guy. Instead of giving the same-weighted object for every person to push, make it weigh proportional to their body mass. This would show participants' true strength. Team challenges would also make more sense as just bonus rounds for rewards or slight advantages.

The final aspect to fix would be no immediate eliminations. I think it'd be much more engaging to have challenges setup as a sort of leaderboard to see individual rankings for each challenge and overall. This would solve the whole "luck" problem.

This was a long rant, but to wrap things up, it seems like Physical 100 may have versions for other countries in the future. I'm hoping that they make major improvements for any and all new seasons. If that does happen, I'll definitely watch them; this show's concept is really interesting compared to exaggerated or scripted types of physical challenge shows.

Leia Mais

A Second Chance Exploring Your "What-Ifs"

It's already clear the amount of fantastical potential this series has. Time traveling in itself isn't anything new, but this still feels fresh by adding an unexpected actor pairing, great production, and BL to the mix.

Even though I was initially skeptical of Krist and Gawin's chemistry, I'm not anymore. As many have pointed out, Krist really shines in this role. His portrayal of Kawi boosts the cute and unpredictable flavor of this series's comedy, while still representing his darker emotions when need be. And Gawin brought not only acting skills but also charm and rizz to the table with the insane number of enchanting gazes he gave within ep1 alone.

Seeing how Kawi's changes caused an interesting ripple effect through time-traveling makes me eager to keep watching! It's more difficult to get supernatural concepts right compared to other genres, yet Be My Favorite has the potential to be a surprising GMM classic.

Leia Mais

My New Comfort Show

This series will make you feel like you're being wrapped in a cozy blanket. Just finished the manga - since this series will probably follow its plot points for the most part, there thankfully won't be any low-effort/petty drama. This is the sort of slice-of-life where you can feel the warm atmosphere through your screen. I'm only exaggerating a little bit when I say that my soul feels immediately cleansed after watching a single episode.

All of the characters are lovable and have great chemistry. Yutaka and Minoru are both finding happiness and peace in each other's company while on their journies of healing from their pasts. Even though there's not much going on yet, I'm looking forward to seeing how their love will blossom and some of their mysteries unravel. And Tane takes the cake when it comes to being adorable and absolutely unhinged. There's also an emphasis on tasty-looking food, so be warned if you're hungry before watching an ep!

This series is the one I most look forward to each week for a calm and lighthearted ep. I'll definitely be rewatching this series whenever I need a quick serotonin boost!

Leia Mais

Like 2gether but BETTER!

MSP shares a similar theme as 2gether when it comes to music, deeper backstories, and youth. BUT after watching this first ep, I must say that I already love it so much more!

First of all, I can already see Tinn and Gun's amazing chemistry. There's a good balance of funny jabs at each other, adorable heartfelt moments, and verryyy long gazing into each other's eyes. And without spoilers, it seems like tension will grow more with more details and reasons being exposed.

Also, the music and soundtrack is chef's kiss! In the first ep alone, we got 3 beautiful songs that tie into the themes of the show with their lyrics and vibes. They're absolute bops and sound so refreshing.

The comedy overall is actually funny (humor in Thai shows can oftentimes get tiring fast). Even subtle gestures, faces, and actions add to the comedic flavor of youth without going overboard. The actual story isn't super unique, but I'm hoping that similarly to Bad Buddy, the execution of the show will bring something new to the table.

Overall, I definitely recommend you giving it a watch if what you're craving is something musical, youthful, funny, and less dramatic. Especially comparing it to most of the upcoming BLs GMM will be releasing, this series is an easy watch and a breath of fresh air to help relax and heal your soul!

Leia Mais

UPDATE - Okay but could have done more

The good:

Not your typical BL lead, the pessimistic Mamoru is an interesting character that makes me much more interested in the storyline. His emo side oddly enough gives a refreshing feel to this series and his reactions are hilarious. I also enjoy his opposite, Kazama, and their potential chemistry!

The bad:

After watching all eps, the storyline felt repetitive, ironically because of Mamoru's personality and its effects on his actions. By the end of it the series, I felt like very little yet so much had happened. Maybe it was because of how much they were trying to do with the story/topics with only 8 eps, but a lot of it was forgettable. The consistency of tone throughout eps and the entire show was also lacking - one moment it's comedic and the next I'm getting thrown into the deep end with the characters' sadness and trauma.

Overall, I was disappointed with it's potential. This is an okay watch if you want something not to get invested in, but go into it with no expectations.

Leia Mais

Heart-Fluttering Moments Ahead in this

I'm not lying when I tell you that this series has made my heart flutter several times within these first 2 eps. And that rarely happens. The acting and dialogue at the most significant parts catch me off guard in the best way possible, just like they do for Minato!!!

Something else I find very charming and unique is the heart-warming moments from Minato interacting with the older adults and everyone else in the town. It's common for BLs to forget that their characters are real people who interact with and live lives that don't solely revolve around their love interest,? so this smaller detail is really refreshing. And the story has already progressed so much in only 2 eps that I feel like I've watched an entire season - no need to worry about being bored or feeling like no progress is being made! The only negative I can see is that Shintaro (the love interest) is a minor (17 yr), but I'm hoping the series handles that aspect well.

Overall, I'd recommend this Japanese BL to anyone looking for something youthful, light-hearted, funny, calm, and slice-of-life.

Leia Mais

Very similar to Cherry Magic but ...

Just like everyone is noticing, I've found many similarities between this show and Cherry Magic, which isn't necessarily good or bad. From the adorable boss/office employee dynamic to the kind main lead who always seems to put others first (and the love interest who helps out when the main lead does this, of course), they resemble each other a lot.

However, Old Fashion Cupcake has distinguished itself so far from CM. Aside from no fantasy aspects, OFC revolves around a unique goal/reason (hard for me to explain, but no spoilers) that causes the two main leads to spend more time together and experience new things. The chemistry between the actors and characters is also interesting and cute. Only being 5 eps, it's definitely worth a riskless watch!

Leia Mais

Pure Serotonin in this Fantasy BL

So far, I love the overall direction of this fluffy and supernatural BL. With its lighthearted combination of romance, fantasy, and comedy, it's hard not to feel happy after watching!

This first ep has several twists and surprises, so I can hope that the rest of the series goes beyond a traditional storyline. I can already feel the main leads' chemistry and am dying to see more of them. Also, in many aspects, it reminds me of Zettai BL ni Naru Sekai and Cherry Magic, both of which are amazing Japanese BLs in these similar genres. If you love these and other supernatural romcoms, I recommend you start this!

Leia Mais

The Best Action BL So Far!

After watching the first ep, I have to say that I'm impressed! The long wait time and anticipation won't let you down- the fighting choreography, cinematography, acting, and locations are all great quality!

The plot/concept is also new and refreshing, especially for a BL. I'm very excited to continue to see new locations and storylines with more fighting, chaos, and exciting moments. And almost all of the characters so far have depth with their own set of motives, so don't worry about seeing zero character development in the rest of the series. If you are looking for a mature, action-packed, spoicy BL, I'd recommend this for you!

Leia Mais

The BEST Korean BL EVER!!!

Despite being only 8 eps, this series was able to deliver as a great BL in general, but also top all other Korean BLs!

Even though the series takes place in college, don't be fooled! The storyline, characters, acting, quality, and everything else were fresh, exciting, and perfectly executed! Most importantly, the actors' chemistry was what really sealed the deal for me. Who doesn't want to see two beautiful Kpop idols fall in love? Another nice touch was there were several LGBTQIA+ characters including the main couple. Each episode was also able to keep me hooked and invested without getting too complicated. Overall, I would recommend this for anyone looking for something youthful, lighthearted, romantic, artistic, and simple.

Leia Mais

Best Japanese BL of 2021 !!!

Kieta Hatsukoi is the best Japanese BL of 2021 so far; the acting, the characters, the script, the plot, and of course, the absolutely sweet moments!

I'll make this short - you will immediately love all the characters in this series! The main characters all have charming points that contribute to a beautifully youthful love story. There's also bound to be at least a million hilarious, heart-warming, and adorable moments sprinkled throughout each episode. A bonus is that the OSTs are absolute bops that I listen to non-stop, sung by the 2 boys themselves :)

If you're looking for a binge-able BL, look no further!

Leia Mais

came for Cherry Magic actors, stayed for everything else

I'm truly loving this series so much!

As in the title, I had originally started watching this for Eiji and Keita. However, I ended up staying for the many other great qualities of this series. Not only have the characters, acting, and plot continued to surprise me non-stop, but the romantic interests are also lovable.

The biggest aspect of this show that keeps me hooked is the main character Mamoru. As a woman CEO, she is a very refreshing representation of what all CEOs should strive to be: a hardworking, strong, and honest boss who sincerely cares about their employees.

Overall, I would recommend this drama to anyone who loves a funny, romantic, and surprising workplace series to enjoy!

Leia Mais

A Funny Slice-of-Life Series

I truly love this series and it has a special place in my drama heart!

I'd be lying if I said I didn't come for the bl. But I stayed for the absolutely hilarious and sweet moments between them and the other couples, too. Many moments are either absolutely hilarious or heartwarming. Another perfect aspect of this series was the beautiful and hilarious soundtrack. The names of the songs and the songs themselves perfectly fit the vibes of their scenes (pay attention to their titles, you won't regret it). It has such a wonderfully nostalgic playlist of Korean songs, so even if nothing else, stay for the soundtrack!!

One of the few cons about this series is that the 4th couple (aka the young fiances) drag the show down. They have barely any moments together, and the few that they do have are boring at best. I also really wish less time was focused on the main couple and more time was focused on the gay couple.

If you want a lighthearted, hilarious, nostalgic, slice-of-life type of drama, then I thoroughly recommend this series!!

Leia Mais

Watch for the Zombies Only

****I tried to include as few spoilers as possible!****
I came into this initially excited and ready for some action as a zombie lover. Instead, I was mostly disappointed.

Firstly, why did this movie have so much potential? From the very beginning, I knew that this movie could have gone in an interesting direction compared to other zombie films. The zombies looked and acted quite different and new to how they usually are depicted (you know, just a regular human face with maybe some blood and wounds that walk mindlessly). They also included a half-zombie, which isn't something seen usually in the "zombie world".

However, that's pretty much as unique as it got. The storyline quickly got boring and fell victim to the typical tiresome tropes of the zombie genre. I couldn't care less about any of the characters and the half-zombie ends up doing nothing for the rest of the movie (a huge waste of potential).

I truly tried to enjoy this movie, but the only redeemable part of this movie is the zombies. If you want a quick movie to skip through for the zombie scenes, this is for you.

Leia Mais