Lovely Writer (2021)

One of the most groundbreaking series in Thai BL industry

I, as a person, normally ditch Thai BL series when I notice protuding stereotypes, cliches, or internalized homophobia (which is quite common). Lovely Writer felt like an iced soda can on a humid day. With it's good rom-com nature, it also presents other issues underlying within the fandom. Such as the oversexualization and fetishizing of BL couples, seeing them as objects rather than people. Also touching on the topics of the pressure of coming out to parents, and most importantly, CONSENT. This word isn't present much within the fandom, and that's quite upsetting. Normalizing dubious consent and semi-rape isn't what we should do, and it's what's being combatted against in this series. Both of the partners have mutual understandings, know their boundaries, and ask before doing anything even merely trespassing over the boundary line. It's so refreshing and relieving to see this sort of communication with obvious consent (**cough** tharntype **cough**). Their acting and intensity is off the charts, and the plot is actually interesting. One of my all-time favorites! Also a pro, this series is 12 episodes, but each one of them is almost an hour and a half long. You heard me!! So I really hope you give it a watch after this treacherously long review, lol

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Good with One Exception

I acknowledge this review will have an unpopular opinion.

This had a great storyline. This is a BL series that also exposes the many problems with the BL industry. It had an outstanding cast which did a great job portraying their characters. I also like how many of the characters did not have your standard ideas of gender norms. However, there are some problems with the script. There are problems with the story continuity, especially with the age difference between Gene and Nubsib. Here is my unpopular opinion, I have a huge problem with the full ending of the series. I was good until the very end of episode 12 (part 4 of episode 12 if you are watching it on YouTube). This is where I got angry. Yes, I actually got angry about it. The full ending felt very lazy, as if the writer got tired with the series. I felt it also downplayed all of the problems of the BL industry that the series was trying to expose in the previous episodes.

Random Note: There are grammatical/spelling errors with the English subtitles if you are watching it on YouTube.


******Potential Spoiler Alert******
This is more of a recommendation than a spoiler. You should stop watching episode 12 after Nubsib whispers into Gene’s ear about how Gene should end his novel. You are really not going to miss anything by skipped the rest of this episode. This is how they should have ended the series.

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Surprising

Okay so this is the first time I've ever left a review so I'm sorry in advance if it leaves something to be desired.
I'll start with this, I absolutely adore Kao (the actor playing Sib). I've thought his acting skill was insane since I saw him in Until We Meet Again back when it first came out.

That being said, I definitely had some issues with it and I will list them as follows:
- I was so invested in the main couple's story that honestly I just skipped through most of the other stuff going on (I saw the important stuff, but sometimes this show really drags on). Like we don't need 10 minutes of everyone crying. We get it, they're sad.
- Honestly there's really no reason why Aoey is as terrible as he is. I get that his family is messed up, but so are a lot of people's. That's not an excuse for being a little sh*t. Deal with your trauma for f*cks sake. Okay! Sorry about that I just really hate stupidly underdeveloped characters. Plus his acting left something to be desired, but again this is just my personal opinion.
-This leads me to my next point which is the tragic idiotic hero trope. Honestly they couldn't have come up with another way to be together without making them split up? You came out to your parents, your friends, and you're starring in a BL show for christ's sake!! Just have a press conference and tell your story. People get over stuff. Saying "I'm willing to break up with you for your happiness" is the lamest excuse in the world. If you love each other, you truly can work things out.

now for what I absolutely LOVED about this show:
- I love the casting choices for Sib and Gene (Tum, Tiffy, the brothers, and the parents were all great castings as well)
- I really love that this show put a focus on the pressure felt by everyone involved in the BL industry. The fact that it is heavily saturated by women authors, that when casting they specifically look for (as they called it) a "bottom", and that when people are shipped together in real life it can have positive and negative effects.
-This show didn't hold back in it's portrayal of fan culture. While I'm sure they could've added more, we saw the impact nonetheless. We have all seen the extremely negative effects of fan behavior and bullying when it comes to actors and ships. If they break up, if they're not seen together enough, if they are with anyone other than their shipped partner, they are harassed.
-This leads me to my final point. I loved that this show centered on a very central theme. The truth about the entertainment industry and its strange views on actual gay people in an place saturated in fake gay relationships. The double standards are absurd!!
Anyways, that's my TedTalk.

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what a brilliant show

I had no clue whatsoever when I started watching but once I did I could not stop. My first Thai drama and my first ever BL drama too. I was blown away by the acting and the familial dynamics and the boy's obsession with older boy. It all felt natural even if a bit weird at times. The thing that I Loved about the show is when leads have to come out to their families and their families reaction are all so..real. As a queer person who is not ashamed of my sexual orientation, lovely writer felt soothing. There was no shame in main leads confession of their sexuality and a clear demand of acceptance because they know they deserve it and it should not have to be asked for. I love that the most.

Thanks to lovely writer, i discovered a new work of entertainment.

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THE MOST UNDERRATED BL SERIES EVER

First thing you should know is that I'm one of the late comers. I only just watched this a whole year after it aired.
As of the time I'm writing this, I already watched Bad Buddy and Not Me; series that have become some of my all time favourites alongside I Told Sunset About You and My Beautiful Man.

So when I tell you that Lovely Writer is one of the best series I've watched ever, believe me because I just put it in the same category as the ones listed above.

I was initially reluctant to watch this because of the 8.2 rating it had at this time and some negative reviews. But now I'm happy I watched it!

Every BL fan should watch this series.


Storyline: I honestly found no flaw with this. This story is as realistic as can be. Although I believe it could do without the childhood bit, it all still comes together nicely. People who have issues with the storyline are not used to realistic stories. Trust me, if you want realism this drama is it for you.
Also this storyline shows all the dirty drama in the BL world and teaches us BL fans to do better.

Acting: Wheew I'm in love with Up. Up is a FANTASTIC actor. His expressions, mannerisms and even the way he talks are perfect. Kao also did a fantastic job here and they had so much chemistry.
Other cast members were also pleasant to watch and I don't remember watching any cringe scenes.

Chemistry: To be honest, I wasn't really feeling the chemistry in the first episode. But from episode 2 till the end? Pure flames! The way Nubsib looks at and cares for Gene makes me blush and embarrassed in a good way. I love how Gene reacts too.
They showed us just one sex scene but o boyyyyy?????? It was honestly more of love-making than sex. Idk how to put it but if you watch it you'd understand.

Consent: I've literally never watched any other BL that affirms consent like Lovely Writer does. At every step of the way, consent was guaranteed. Kao was such a beautiful lover.

I don't know how else to say it but please watch this drama. You will love it.

Also, I really can't wait to see Up in another series ?

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Every BL fan should watch this series at least once!

The actors did a great job, the story is unique and really good, the characters break stereotypes and even the “villain” of the story has depth and understandable reasons for their actions.

Gene (the main character) was definitely my favorite. He is clever, kind, selfless, mature and he doesn’t let people pull him into their drama or walk all over him. He feels like a real life person.

‘Lovely Writer’ does an amazing job at calling out the issues surrounding bl series and the industry. It’s the inside view into the life of bl actors that I didn’t know I needed or wanted in my life but I DO. I really think everyone that enjoys bl’s need to watch this!

Despite bringing up quite a lot of problems it still manages to retain an air of humor and cuteness. It’s a well balanced series and I’m definitely going to watch it again in the future.

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Sweet romantic comedy highlighting some of the serious issues in the BL industry

When I first saw the trailer, honestly I wasn't expecting much. Also, initially, I had this perception that the Lovely writer series might be similar to "WHY'R U? the series" which made me actually dismiss the idea of even watching it. But, THANK GOD, one day I was bored and thought to give this series a try, and my goodness, my whole belief of judging a book by its cover flushed out in the drain at that moment. The series is amazing and can be considered one of the "Rarest Gem" in the BL industry.

Below I'll breakdown the review for you all;

STORY (10/10)

The main plot is actually very simple and well scripted, but it was various themes and elements that actually made the series wholesome and yet different from any of the previous BL series. I love how they have highlighted how BL fandom is more into fan service rather than story and quality and they were pretty straightforward about it too. When it came to Gene's boss, she would always emphasize on H scenes rather than the story, and Gene as a writer would be rather distressed about it as it would hamper the quality of the story. I somehow felt bad for Gene as he couldn't publish the work which he actually wanted even though his BL novels have been trending in the Industry apparently. The actual story starts when Gene meet Nubsib in the audition which happens in the 1st episode. I found the story pacing to be perfect with each episode so well scripted and directed that you would be ready to invest your whole day in this series without even fast-forwarding it. I love how they have even brought up the family issue i.e when your parents find out that you are gay, I won't say that it applies to all but it is kind of realistic and shown in a positive light which will just make you emotional. The issue in the BL industry of demanding the cast members to offer fan service and prohibit dating other than your series partner had just enraged me. The showrunners had done an excellent job in delivering the message that such ideas can have a negative impact on just so many people, even aggravating mental health issues. I absolutely hated seeing my poor Gene depressed. Lovely writer has done an excellent job in touching some of the sensitive issues pertaining in the BL Industry.

CHARACTERS AND ACTING ( 9/10)

I absolutely loved Gene. I have never watched any previous work of Up so I had basically no clue about his acting. But I would just say that he did 100% justice to the character. I love how his character broke so many stereotypes, like for example is it really necessary to be a female to write a best-selling BL novel. You don't have to be gay to write gay romance. But yes, he does fall head over heels for a guy. I personally perceive his character to be an introvert who is stern and adamant when it comes to making decisions thus shown in having a cold exterior but is actually timid and kind. I absolutely loved his relationship with his father. You can say they are like any other typical father and son duo, with his father being the quiet and strict but is actually caring and the son being not so open about his stuff, likes to live alone with his privacy but inwardly seeks his father's approval. I think that is why it was important for Gene to come out to his father and seeks his acceptance. I love how he always gets spoiled by Nubsib, but at the end of the day, it is he who is more mature than him. I absolutely hated when Gene broke up with Nubsib, but it was a necessity given the circumstances. And acting on emotions would then make the situation worse. But I am glad the series ended on a happy note.

Throughout the series, I actually saw gradual evolution in Kao's acting as Nubsib. The reason I couldn't rate this series 10/10 in terms of acting is because of him. Initially, with Kao's acting, there was always something that just bothered me but as the series progressed his acting improved. He very well acted Nubsib as a character, I loved how he was 2 faced person when it came to others and Gene. He is always trying his best to show a better version of himself to Gene while just not caring about others including Tum.

The chemistry between Up and Kao was just off the charts, I could literally feel butterflies in my stomach when it came to both of them. And I would always have this smile on my face whenever I saw them together.

Hin is actually my favorite character in the series. After watching him, I was like, everyone deserves Hin as a friend and colleague in their lives. Kenji's acting just melted my heart. I love how he respects Gene as a mentor and as a friend. I loved how the director even showed his side of the story as he has been struggling with his career. Hin's smiling demeanor is sure to warm your heart but then thinking back about all his struggles just makes me cry. I loved how he chose his moral and loyalty towards Gene when given a choice. Thank God he wasn't fired from his job.

Gene's parents - I think everyone needs a parent like Gene's. They are so understanding, not only towards their children but also towards each other as a partner. When I came to the real reason why Gene's dad was so against Gene's relationship, I choked. I was genuinely shocked when I came to know that Gene's mother knew about his past and was very understanding about it. They totally showed the world that everything could be solved without unnecessary drama. After everything gets solved between Gene and his dad, they established a level of understanding and trust which just warmed my heart. Also kudos to Gene's mom for being so understanding and supportive towards her family member.

Tum and Tiffy - I dub them as an unconventional couple beating all kinds of stereotypes. Tum being good at sewing, having immense knowledge about the make-up products and so on. And Tiffy being a badass riding a motorbike and knowing how to fix a car.

Ae - I only feel pity for him, that's the first thing that came to my mind when I completed the whole series. For all the troubles he caused between Gene and Nubsib's relationship, I wanted to smack him at that point. He is a very lonely character having a bad relationship with his family which I guess to a certain extent had negatively affected his personality. Often during our difficult times, we are compelled to take wrong decisions and bound to hurt people who genuinely care for us. Ae is a perfect example of that. I believe despite his struggles and family issues if he had made the right decision then things would have turned out to be different for him. In spite of such issues, nothing gives a person the right to intervene in other people's business. For all the bad stuff he did karma did bite him in the end.

The rest of the cast members including the ones who played the younger versions of Gene and Nubsib did an excellent job in portraying their characters.

DIRECTION (10/10)

I have to create a separate paragraph for the main force who made the success of the series possible. Remember the name of the director guys, "Tee Bundit Sintanaparadee". Whenever you will be seeing his name in any of the series just blindly watch the series without going through the cast list or synopsis. He has the power in bringing about the best in the actors and the characters. He has a way of story telling which lets the audience know that no one is evil or bad, it is just the circumstances which compels a person to make the wrong decision. Speficially speaking of Ae, the direction along with the acting made it possible to show us several grey shades of the character.

REWATCH VALUE (10/10)

I have already watched it thrice and I am gonna keep on watching it again and again because it is that good to watch.

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lovely writer...

so it was okay for me as i started with low expectation.

For the main lead i wanted more from nubsib (noppakao) as i had seen his work in UWMA so i wanted more mature acting as a top. Sometimes i feel irritate at some scenes. For his partner (poompat) i love his character although he is playing for bottom he is not like other who acts like somehow girlish i like way that he potrays his character. i love to see him in more projects.
I like the side actors as they potrayed their characters well.

For the storyline, first few episodes may get you bore but after it develops with characters also. the most i love was how their parents handle the facts that them sons are dating & gay. Ist shows maturity of the parents as well as writer.
There were lots of scenes where gene's senior wanted him to write bl novels with nc scenes so i was hoping for at least one passionate romance scene. well you can enjoy kissing scenes.
For the ending (ep 12) the snow white,cindrella part so funny and cringy..i dont know how they manage to do it.
Looking forward to more projects of both of them.

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The Lovely Writer blew me away! In the BL genres, this was a breath of fresh air that brought me tears of joy, and sadness. Many tears of sadness!!! It brought me frustration, anger, and everything in between. Even in its simplicity, it was a beautiful piece of work. I have to say that the wonderful music added to the intensity and sincerity of each and every scene and situation. What a memorable series. To date, this is my all-time favorite BL Drama and top five of all Asian dramas. This series, by far, had the best Writer, Director, Production team, Actors, and everyone involved in the making of this underrated masterpiece. The use of lighting and space was also phenomenal and magical. The lead actors did a great job, at times with subtle expressions and at other times with adorably cute ones. Awww. I want to fall in love all over again.☺ This one will stay will me for a long time to come. Bravo, Bravo. ?❤? One complaint: I disliked Aoey's dry crying. ? I think I saw one tear. ?The fairytale section was a bit cheesy for my taste, though. ? Anyway, YAY, A Happy ending!!

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Cringy

I have nothing to say about the plot, because I couldn't focus enough on it due to the fact that most of the casts were so cringy and unnatural on camera. (Save for Gene (acted by Up Poompat Iam-samang - he was amazing, one of the best I 've seen from a Thai Drama actually) and then some of the supporting characters like the director etc)

I have watched a few Thai dramas actually, and it never failed to amuse me how awkward the casts can be on camera. One and two ocassions would be fine, but when it is thrown too often into the mix, even the most interesting of shows would turn bad. It made me wonder, was it a Thai Drama thing? (But, like I said, Up Poompat Iam-samang was amazing at his role, why can't others be too?)

I wish I could ignore the acting and just focus on the story, but I couldn't because they were super unconvincing.

End of rant.

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One time watch

I was a bit hesitant to watch the series because I felt like it would have a much darker tone as the series was supposed to explore the toxicity surrounding the BL industry. I was surprised to see it was much light hearted than I anticipated. I would say it is a good one time watch kinda series.

Postives-
1.The actors did a great job potraying their characters.

2. The cinematographers and costume designers did a very good job.

Negatives -

1. Tbh during the first few episodes , I was extremely annoyed by the exaggerated sound effects to the point I wanted stop watching it.

2. The series was trying to be serious and comical at the same time , thus the results seems to be a mush of both not in good way

Story telling and characters:

1.Despite liking the acting , I didnt relate to any character other than Gene and Aey at certain scenes

2. Gene was the most explored character in the series. We got to see Gene as a person outside of his relationship with Sib. I loved his relationship with his parents, collegues and friends.

3. On the other hand, Nubsib being the main lead wasn't explored at all. There was nothing about his character other than his love towards Gene.He was shown as this cold guy who is rude to his manager , coworker and everyone other than Gene. Thus we dont know anything about him as a person other than he loves Gene

4. Aey was a character I liked and disliked at the same time. I really felt bad for him for how he was treated by his family. Again , his character was given no development in this series. Since the creators went out of their way to give a backstory to him in the first half of the series , I hoped he will have a redemption arc somwhere towards the end. Yes ,he did an awful thing to the main couple.But it was kind of sad to watch everyone just leaving him in the end. Someone should have gotten him the help he needed since he seem to be going through a tough time even in the last episode.

5. Tum and Tiffy's relationship and even their individual backstory was rather nice. I feel like there should have been more scenes of them as they seems to have just disappeared for a few episodes only to come back randomly when necessary. Tum and his sister's relationship was not really explored . Tiffy and Aey barely had any scenes together , same goes for Sib and Tum. I couldnt figure out the work relationship dynamic between Tum and Sib at all. Sib seems to have no respect towards Tum most of the time.

6.Another unexplored character was Hin. He literally disappeared from the show for most part of it. Even though his character was given a closure , there was barely anything we know about his characters other than he is gene's assistant and he writes . He comes and goes from the series without much of a purpose.

7. Despite having a lot of plot holes, I did love how it portrayed the importance of consent and communication in a relationship. It was refreshing to see how caring and loving the couple were towards each other. The best plotline of the story I would say is the coming out episodes. It was well written and acted. The potrayal of toxicity in the industry and fandoms were kept to a bare minimum . They could have explored on this subject much more. Something that confused me was how they got together after the huge break up in the last episode. For a couple who communicated extremely well throughout the series, they got back together without talking to each other about how they will face such a situation in case that happens in future.


I would say , the series as a whole is a one time watch if you like the actors.

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