This review may contain spoilers
Take a shot every time I type "I love" XD
WARNING! To vent my feelings, I'm gonna do it episode by episode since others are, and I feel validated lmao Plus, like, there's a LOT of feelings in each episode~ It's so good~ Even so, I won't spoil anything major, so you can experience yourselves~
TL;DR? Full disclosure: I didn't like the book because of certain plot lines that I absolutely ABHOR, including "studying abroad" and "those who are older than us ALWAYS know better" (which is gross, and most certainly not true). The show, though? Is almost NOTHING like the book, thankfully. I mean, p'Aof literally saw it and was like, "There's potential, but it could be better" and BITCH HE MADE IT SO MUCH BETTER. One of my favorite parts is the way it addresses the issues PatPran face. There's an overarching problem that both main characters are working on, but, for the most part, each issue gets resolved before the episode is over, which means the usual tactic of using cliff hangers to keep readers interested is no where to be found. Despite this, I STILL can't wait for every episode. It addresses stereotypical BL tropes (especially those in Thai BLs), and the characters freaking COMMUNICATE their PROBLEMS. It's so freaking NICE. There are misunderstandings and quarrels, but, again, they're generally resolved before the end of the episode WITHOUT rushing. Plus, the OST? It's beautiful. Just Friends is a wonderful song, and Nonan's voice is so soothing and aching and ugh. I love it.
ONWARDS to my completely uncensored reactions lmao
Episode 1.
It's such a good introduction! This episode does a good job of setting groundwork. We get so much detail, but it doesn't feel rushed or forced. It just flows naturally, like a good story should do~ I love this more than the book already lol The way Nonan's eyes are so expressive makes me jealous, honestly. Side note: I'm glad they didn't do that typical, "This guy's my bully, but I love him anyway." That shit drives me INSANE. Another side note: is it me or is Pat more... Pat when he's around Pran? Maybe I'm reading too much into it since I know they're probably gonna end up together (oh, come on! It's a BL, and they're the main starts. That's not a spoiler; that's just common sense!).
Episode 2.
I normally don't like the "opposites attract" rhetoric, because it's (more often than not) complete garbage, since you have to have something in common with the person you like--otherwise, the relationship won't last. My favorite thing this episode (and throughout the series tbh) is the BALANCE. Yes, Pat and Pran have different routines and majors, but they're similar where it counts: kind, thoughtful, and loyal. Pat cares for his sister, family, and friends. Pran cares for his friends and family. They deal with things differently, but they have similarities on a fundamental level. Also, like, the misunderstanding this episode is adorable, and I love how they handle it~
Episode 3.
They're also goofballs. Have I mentioned that yet? Dear Lord! They're such dorks. It's so cute, and I hate them lmao. Also, kudos to Pat for being so stubborn! Despite Pran telling him not to talk to him, Pat just smirks and keeps trying, even offering to help. I love this character the most, to be honest, and I can't blame Pran for falling for him because same, my guy. Same.
Episode 4.
"I know you can [do it on your own], but I still want to help" is the best freaking thing I've ever heard. I love it so much. Also, it's such a good thing that Pat and Pran's friends are with them, because if they got roped into a cultist leader, they'd be so screwed lol They're so easily manipulated, it's kinda cute. It's also realistic, especially with the rivalry, because you don't always thing logically when arguing or fighting--you just wanna be right and have the one-up--so I give them kudos for that as well~ Another nice subtly is the way they show how different Pran is when talking to others (soft, polite speech) versus how he is when he's talking to Pat (angry, informal, rough). I'm starting to get the vibe that Pran feels more comfortable with Pat, just like Pat is with him. Like they can be themselves with the other. My heart~ Also, the way Pat just expected Pran to sit next to him, so he slid the chair out expectantly? And the fact that he's paying so much attention to him that he notices Pran's shoulder starting to bother him? Please don't do this to meeeee~
Episode 5.
This episode. THIS EPISODE. I can't. Also, can someone tell me why it's the fifth episode, and I just noticed that, in the intro, Pat's and Pran's friends switch sides, so Pat's friends are next to Pran and Pran's friends are next to Pat? Small detail, but I like it~ Moving on~ I love how Pat deals with things. He always immediately tries to figure out an answer and/or solution. When he messes up, he tries to fix it. When he's confused about his feelings, he immediately tries to find the answer. I love that sort of "head first" mentality, and I think that's why I like his character so much: I'm so tired of people skirting around their feelings and their issues. As someone who likes to have the conversation so I can get it over with, I totally relate to Pat, who just wants to KNOW. Also, his jealousy over Wai is, like, the single best thing, especially since it's more than just romance: Wai can go to Pran's house, Wai can be friends with Pran out in the open; that's so much more than Pat feels like he will ever be able to do since their parents hate each other. I love that detail~ (Someone, take a shot every time I type "I love that" or "I love them" or "I love" anything lmao). And, of course, that KISS. The difference in emotions WHILE kissing for Pat and Pran is beautiful, let alone afterwards. The different way they handle things is really coming out here, and I *snickers* love it~
Episode 6.
You know, I kinda forgot about the whole "Pat interested in Ink" because, like a champ, this show didn't harp on it, and I immediately started shipping Ink with Pa because, I mean, why can't we get a good GL? Until Pa was like, "You two are fighting over Ink, right?" and then I was like, "OHHHHHH! Is that why Pran..." And I realized that Pat literally told Pran he liked her an epsiode or so ago, so, like, how confusing for poor Pran! Shit! I bet Pat also forgot because he's... Well, he's Pat, and I feel that lmao. Aside from that, Pat using their bets and power struggle to make Pran look at him and pay attention to him? Cute~ Pat going out of his way in an environment that would clearly eat him up? Also cute~ Head strong and unperturbed--two traits I love about Pat. Just give in Pran. For the sake of my heart because Pat's sad eyes are BREAKING IT. On another note, the adverts in this show are also wonderfully done. That flirting scene with the printer? Golden. I also just love how everything is bickering--not quite fighting, but just little quips and arguments because they're stubborn~
Episode 7.
This whole episode is GOLD. The cute flirting, the tactics? It's soooo good. Even the part where they try to make each other jealous, which is something I usually hate, is done so well, with both parties being like, "Why're you acting so weird?" But Pat and Pran are so focused on the other, they have no idea that their "dates" are absolutely lost. It's brillant~ A highlight from this episode is another detail: the fact that Pat looks at the door to see how Pran is feeling (the sad face this time) and immediately changes his tactics because he's worried? God help me because these boys are going to KILL ME. Toto(?) screaming, "I just survived this" at the end is literally me.
Episode 8.
Another good example of communication with a touch of sweet. Every problem, they both admit their faults. They both apologize, and they both compromise, choosing what works for either of them. It warms my heart so much~
Episode 9.
WAI. WHY (ha) are you such an ASSHOLE. I thought you were GOOD, but you're literally just PETTY. In the WORST WAY. UGH. I understand his betrayal, and I know that being lied to sucks, but that doesn't give you the RIGHT. Ugh x2. Korn and the rest of Pat's friends are angels, and I love them, but I tend to like most of Drake's characters, though I wish he'd be the main lead at some point~ Pressing on, Pat's character continues to set the bar higher for an potential relationship I want to get in, which is problem, but we'll ignore that for the moment. Them being open and out DOES make my heart happy. Though I'm annoyed by HOW it was done, I recognize there isn't really any way it could've been done, especially with Pran's PTSD when it comes to being friends with Pat in public (thanks, mom and dad). I wish we could've gotten Pa's initial reaction, but alas~ Also, Wai, did you HAVE to waste that water bottle? It was completely full! Thankful that the issues were resolved in ONE EPISODE, and it wasn't dragged out until the end or something, because then I really would be annoyed~
Episode 10.
I'm SO GLAD this show deviated from the book. The reason in the book for this feud, in my opinion, was absolutely stupid, but this reason? I totally get it. I would be upset and heartbroken, too, and I'm also just happy they made it something UNEXPECTED. Like, this show is doing so well with the "plot twists," because I never really think they're gonna do it well, which is stupid, since this whole show is done well lol. Either way, I thought we would have a prelude to sadness for episode 11 (because of the curse), but, honestly, I was, once again, pleasantly surprised that, instead of breaking up because of the conflict, they decided to face it together. Like, how fucking healthy is that? I love it~ I also love the way Wai is integrating, and I would be totally down for a KornWai ship hinted. Also, InkPa ship is SAILING, bitches, and I'm SO FREAKING HYPED. I was worried (again, stupid on my part) that they'd drag it out and make it to where Pa is just misunderstanding her feelings and blah blah blah, but P'Aof was like, "NO BITCHES. THIS IS IT." And it happened in episode 10, which means we might get even CUTER moments. All in all, my heart is both happy and hurt. Negative Ten to Pat's dad, and 10/10 for InkPa~ See you all Friday~
Episode 11.
THAT SONG, THOUGH. LIKE. WHAT. "Love is nothing else but you" is probably the single best thing ever. The way it's been the opening the entire time? That was so brilliant. I love p'Aof so much! He's such a dedicated, talented director! Like, wow. And this sound track is fucking ENDING me~ This episode was entirely PatPran. They lived their lives, worked out their anxieties, and just enjoyed each other the whole time, and I can appreciate it. Plus, like, not to beat a dead horse, but that song? ugh. I love it. I wasn't TOTALLY impressed when Pran was singing it previously because the beat seemed off, but I attributed it to them making it feel like it was in the process of being written, and DAMN. That final piece? I love it. There were rumors of Twitter spoiling it, but I think people don't realize that the book has been translated into English since almost the beginning of the series, and it's different enough from the series that it doesn't really matter. OF COURSE, based on the previews for the next episode, where they're talking about breaking up (did they even break up? did I miss that? I thought they were just going home!) with each other, I'm guessing we're gonna do that thing I hate, where we have a year or two gap between meeting each other. Ick. I'll probably dock points for that, but I'm still overly impressed and in love with this series. One episode to go, and I'm both excited and sad~ Love is nothing else but you, na?<3(:
Episode 12.
I TAKE IT ALL BACK. THAT WAS AWESOME. They DECEIVED ME, and I LOVE IT. UGH. Way better than the book. I also love the fact that they took what the guy at the beach said to heart like I did. When he said that the world couldn't change him either, I was so inspired, and I'm excited that our boys were just as inspired because I felt like that line was perfect, honestly~ I even love that they included that little thing about their parents giving in to their relationship. Ugh. I just finished it, and now I wanna watch it all over again.
TL;DR? Full disclosure: I didn't like the book because of certain plot lines that I absolutely ABHOR, including "studying abroad" and "those who are older than us ALWAYS know better" (which is gross, and most certainly not true). The show, though? Is almost NOTHING like the book, thankfully. I mean, p'Aof literally saw it and was like, "There's potential, but it could be better" and BITCH HE MADE IT SO MUCH BETTER. One of my favorite parts is the way it addresses the issues PatPran face. There's an overarching problem that both main characters are working on, but, for the most part, each issue gets resolved before the episode is over, which means the usual tactic of using cliff hangers to keep readers interested is no where to be found. Despite this, I STILL can't wait for every episode. It addresses stereotypical BL tropes (especially those in Thai BLs), and the characters freaking COMMUNICATE their PROBLEMS. It's so freaking NICE. There are misunderstandings and quarrels, but, again, they're generally resolved before the end of the episode WITHOUT rushing. Plus, the OST? It's beautiful. Just Friends is a wonderful song, and Nonan's voice is so soothing and aching and ugh. I love it.
ONWARDS to my completely uncensored reactions lmao
Episode 1.
It's such a good introduction! This episode does a good job of setting groundwork. We get so much detail, but it doesn't feel rushed or forced. It just flows naturally, like a good story should do~ I love this more than the book already lol The way Nonan's eyes are so expressive makes me jealous, honestly. Side note: I'm glad they didn't do that typical, "This guy's my bully, but I love him anyway." That shit drives me INSANE. Another side note: is it me or is Pat more... Pat when he's around Pran? Maybe I'm reading too much into it since I know they're probably gonna end up together (oh, come on! It's a BL, and they're the main starts. That's not a spoiler; that's just common sense!).
Episode 2.
I normally don't like the "opposites attract" rhetoric, because it's (more often than not) complete garbage, since you have to have something in common with the person you like--otherwise, the relationship won't last. My favorite thing this episode (and throughout the series tbh) is the BALANCE. Yes, Pat and Pran have different routines and majors, but they're similar where it counts: kind, thoughtful, and loyal. Pat cares for his sister, family, and friends. Pran cares for his friends and family. They deal with things differently, but they have similarities on a fundamental level. Also, like, the misunderstanding this episode is adorable, and I love how they handle it~
Episode 3.
They're also goofballs. Have I mentioned that yet? Dear Lord! They're such dorks. It's so cute, and I hate them lmao. Also, kudos to Pat for being so stubborn! Despite Pran telling him not to talk to him, Pat just smirks and keeps trying, even offering to help. I love this character the most, to be honest, and I can't blame Pran for falling for him because same, my guy. Same.
Episode 4.
"I know you can [do it on your own], but I still want to help" is the best freaking thing I've ever heard. I love it so much. Also, it's such a good thing that Pat and Pran's friends are with them, because if they got roped into a cultist leader, they'd be so screwed lol They're so easily manipulated, it's kinda cute. It's also realistic, especially with the rivalry, because you don't always thing logically when arguing or fighting--you just wanna be right and have the one-up--so I give them kudos for that as well~ Another nice subtly is the way they show how different Pran is when talking to others (soft, polite speech) versus how he is when he's talking to Pat (angry, informal, rough). I'm starting to get the vibe that Pran feels more comfortable with Pat, just like Pat is with him. Like they can be themselves with the other. My heart~ Also, the way Pat just expected Pran to sit next to him, so he slid the chair out expectantly? And the fact that he's paying so much attention to him that he notices Pran's shoulder starting to bother him? Please don't do this to meeeee~
Episode 5.
This episode. THIS EPISODE. I can't. Also, can someone tell me why it's the fifth episode, and I just noticed that, in the intro, Pat's and Pran's friends switch sides, so Pat's friends are next to Pran and Pran's friends are next to Pat? Small detail, but I like it~ Moving on~ I love how Pat deals with things. He always immediately tries to figure out an answer and/or solution. When he messes up, he tries to fix it. When he's confused about his feelings, he immediately tries to find the answer. I love that sort of "head first" mentality, and I think that's why I like his character so much: I'm so tired of people skirting around their feelings and their issues. As someone who likes to have the conversation so I can get it over with, I totally relate to Pat, who just wants to KNOW. Also, his jealousy over Wai is, like, the single best thing, especially since it's more than just romance: Wai can go to Pran's house, Wai can be friends with Pran out in the open; that's so much more than Pat feels like he will ever be able to do since their parents hate each other. I love that detail~ (Someone, take a shot every time I type "I love that" or "I love them" or "I love" anything lmao). And, of course, that KISS. The difference in emotions WHILE kissing for Pat and Pran is beautiful, let alone afterwards. The different way they handle things is really coming out here, and I *snickers* love it~
Episode 6.
You know, I kinda forgot about the whole "Pat interested in Ink" because, like a champ, this show didn't harp on it, and I immediately started shipping Ink with Pa because, I mean, why can't we get a good GL? Until Pa was like, "You two are fighting over Ink, right?" and then I was like, "OHHHHHH! Is that why Pran..." And I realized that Pat literally told Pran he liked her an epsiode or so ago, so, like, how confusing for poor Pran! Shit! I bet Pat also forgot because he's... Well, he's Pat, and I feel that lmao. Aside from that, Pat using their bets and power struggle to make Pran look at him and pay attention to him? Cute~ Pat going out of his way in an environment that would clearly eat him up? Also cute~ Head strong and unperturbed--two traits I love about Pat. Just give in Pran. For the sake of my heart because Pat's sad eyes are BREAKING IT. On another note, the adverts in this show are also wonderfully done. That flirting scene with the printer? Golden. I also just love how everything is bickering--not quite fighting, but just little quips and arguments because they're stubborn~
Episode 7.
This whole episode is GOLD. The cute flirting, the tactics? It's soooo good. Even the part where they try to make each other jealous, which is something I usually hate, is done so well, with both parties being like, "Why're you acting so weird?" But Pat and Pran are so focused on the other, they have no idea that their "dates" are absolutely lost. It's brillant~ A highlight from this episode is another detail: the fact that Pat looks at the door to see how Pran is feeling (the sad face this time) and immediately changes his tactics because he's worried? God help me because these boys are going to KILL ME. Toto(?) screaming, "I just survived this" at the end is literally me.
Episode 8.
Another good example of communication with a touch of sweet. Every problem, they both admit their faults. They both apologize, and they both compromise, choosing what works for either of them. It warms my heart so much~
Episode 9.
WAI. WHY (ha) are you such an ASSHOLE. I thought you were GOOD, but you're literally just PETTY. In the WORST WAY. UGH. I understand his betrayal, and I know that being lied to sucks, but that doesn't give you the RIGHT. Ugh x2. Korn and the rest of Pat's friends are angels, and I love them, but I tend to like most of Drake's characters, though I wish he'd be the main lead at some point~ Pressing on, Pat's character continues to set the bar higher for an potential relationship I want to get in, which is problem, but we'll ignore that for the moment. Them being open and out DOES make my heart happy. Though I'm annoyed by HOW it was done, I recognize there isn't really any way it could've been done, especially with Pran's PTSD when it comes to being friends with Pat in public (thanks, mom and dad). I wish we could've gotten Pa's initial reaction, but alas~ Also, Wai, did you HAVE to waste that water bottle? It was completely full! Thankful that the issues were resolved in ONE EPISODE, and it wasn't dragged out until the end or something, because then I really would be annoyed~
Episode 10.
I'm SO GLAD this show deviated from the book. The reason in the book for this feud, in my opinion, was absolutely stupid, but this reason? I totally get it. I would be upset and heartbroken, too, and I'm also just happy they made it something UNEXPECTED. Like, this show is doing so well with the "plot twists," because I never really think they're gonna do it well, which is stupid, since this whole show is done well lol. Either way, I thought we would have a prelude to sadness for episode 11 (because of the curse), but, honestly, I was, once again, pleasantly surprised that, instead of breaking up because of the conflict, they decided to face it together. Like, how fucking healthy is that? I love it~ I also love the way Wai is integrating, and I would be totally down for a KornWai ship hinted. Also, InkPa ship is SAILING, bitches, and I'm SO FREAKING HYPED. I was worried (again, stupid on my part) that they'd drag it out and make it to where Pa is just misunderstanding her feelings and blah blah blah, but P'Aof was like, "NO BITCHES. THIS IS IT." And it happened in episode 10, which means we might get even CUTER moments. All in all, my heart is both happy and hurt. Negative Ten to Pat's dad, and 10/10 for InkPa~ See you all Friday~
Episode 11.
THAT SONG, THOUGH. LIKE. WHAT. "Love is nothing else but you" is probably the single best thing ever. The way it's been the opening the entire time? That was so brilliant. I love p'Aof so much! He's such a dedicated, talented director! Like, wow. And this sound track is fucking ENDING me~ This episode was entirely PatPran. They lived their lives, worked out their anxieties, and just enjoyed each other the whole time, and I can appreciate it. Plus, like, not to beat a dead horse, but that song? ugh. I love it. I wasn't TOTALLY impressed when Pran was singing it previously because the beat seemed off, but I attributed it to them making it feel like it was in the process of being written, and DAMN. That final piece? I love it. There were rumors of Twitter spoiling it, but I think people don't realize that the book has been translated into English since almost the beginning of the series, and it's different enough from the series that it doesn't really matter. OF COURSE, based on the previews for the next episode, where they're talking about breaking up (did they even break up? did I miss that? I thought they were just going home!) with each other, I'm guessing we're gonna do that thing I hate, where we have a year or two gap between meeting each other. Ick. I'll probably dock points for that, but I'm still overly impressed and in love with this series. One episode to go, and I'm both excited and sad~ Love is nothing else but you, na?<3(:
Episode 12.
I TAKE IT ALL BACK. THAT WAS AWESOME. They DECEIVED ME, and I LOVE IT. UGH. Way better than the book. I also love the fact that they took what the guy at the beach said to heart like I did. When he said that the world couldn't change him either, I was so inspired, and I'm excited that our boys were just as inspired because I felt like that line was perfect, honestly~ I even love that they included that little thing about their parents giving in to their relationship. Ugh. I just finished it, and now I wanna watch it all over again.
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