Chasing Sunsets (2020)

One of the first GL's (Girls Love) Thought Quite Dull...

I discovered this series on a post from a BL blog listing the BL's that are currently airing. Not only the first GL (Girls Love) series, but also the first BL-related series to portray mental illness, which is surprising as mental illness is often present in LGBTQ+ individuals! But of course, BL's usually show a fantasy world; a world where gay people and feelings are accepted so mental illness wouldn't be present. Within the span of two episodes, the series also talked about how being gay does not affect one's skills as a parent. Although it does touch on several deep topics, the story is often dull and slow at times though the mystery about whether Dominic, Lara's boyfriend, actually exists still lingers in the air...

By the end of the series, I was so bored. The story made sense, but it was dull and slow. The random shoe-horning of rape and HIV testing to make the series 'important' was distasteful. One of the worst BL/GL's series that I've seen thus far...

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"Web Series Review: Chasing Sunsets (2020)"

Filmed during the quarantine lockdown in the Philippines, Chasing Sunsets is a web series centered on interconnected stories of hope, love, and survival. Amidst the public health crisis, the Camp Avenue Studios spearheaded the project with an end in mind: the end goal is to offer the viewers a different type of series that intertwines entertainment and awareness. The underlying themes in the series which are indicated at the introduction of ten episodes discuss pressing issues such as mental health problem, the sensitive topic of rape victim, and the fear of acquiring HIV. I commend the actors who seem new and amateur in the field of acting. They pulled it off! One surprising perspective the series tackles is the importance of companionship. The case of Lara who is diagnosed of depression and anxiety becomes the principal victim of her mental disorders. She met later on the owner of the campsite who happens to be openly lesbian and a proud mom of her beautiful daughter. They formed a friendship but shortly after got entangled in a platonic relationship. The ending might surprise the viewers but I guarantee you it takes you to a whole level: a roller coaster of emotions.

Did it meet my expectations? Yes! I was thrilled to see a series so relevant in this day and age. As I always say, the audience must be wise enough to prefer movies and series that provide them life lessons over some films that only satiate their thirst for temporary happiness.

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