meh, just meh.

Sunset x Vibes is a visually stunning Thai BL drama that unfortunately falls short in terms of its storyline and acting. The integration of the mythical plotline feels forced and disjointed, detracting from the overall experience, leaving the plot underwhelming.

While the two lead actors, are undeniably attractive, their performances are monotonous throughout the series. Even the reveal of the mysterious caller lacks the suspense and intrigue it should have. The supporting characters, particularly the main leads' best friends, are overly cheeky and can be irritating to watch.

Despite its shortcomings, Sunset x Vibes boasts impressive cinematography and stylish outfits that are a visual treat. However, these elements are not enough to compensate for the lackluster writing and performances. The excessive steamy scenes, while appealing to some viewers, ultimately detract from the overall quality of the drama.

Overall, Sunset x Vibes is a disappointing series that fails to leave a lasting impression. While it may offer some eye candy for viewers, it's unlikely to be a memorable watch or generate much interest in the future works of the main leads.

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welcome home, where you belong :)

I had my reservations about watching The On1y One because I hadn't ventured much into Taiwanese BL dramas before; most of my experience came from Korean and Thai BLs. Plus, I had already seen spoilers floating around TikTok and Twitter, so I knew the general plot. But I’m glad I took the plunge to watch it. I ended up being quite invested in this drama, watching it as after everything was released because I don’t have the patience to wait for weekly episodes, but this was worth it. I was initially concerned about the “brother-turned-lovers” trope and how it would be received, but to my surprise, the series handled it in a refreshingly subtle way. It's now tied with Love for Love’s Sake and My Stand-In as one of my favorite BL dramas this year.

I thought the main conflict would focus heavily on their romance and how being "brothers" might affect the family, but the show took a much more toned-down approach than I anticipated. This subversion of expectations felt refreshing. Instead of over-dramatizing their relationship, the story balanced emotional depth and subtlety in a way that felt new and welcome.

If I were to compare this to another series, it reminds me of The Trainee with OffGun in terms of vibe. It’s not a typical BL where everything is centered around romance. It leans more into a "coming-of-age" story, but with a much bigger emotional depth. The drama captures raw, real moments, and the emotional buildup pays off well with each episode. Every character development felt organic, and it never felt too heavy-handed.

Jiang Tian, portrayed by Benjamin Tsang, is an incredibly layered character. He carries so much emotional baggage—trauma, defenses, and personal reservations—that he inflicts on himself. His complexity unfolds piece by piece throughout the series, with the “Jiang Tian’s Very Moment” segments at the end of each episode giving more insight into his emotional state. It never felt like the show was just telling us who he is; we truly got to understand him. Tsang’s portrayal is subtle yet powerful. His smiles are rare but genuine, and his emotional breakdowns are heart-wrenching, leaving me teary-eyed at times. His performance is a masterclass in emotional intricacy.

Sheng Wang, on the other hand, seems straightforward but has his own complexities. He’s more open with his feelings, particularly toward Jiang Tian, but he also has his share of emotional struggles. On the surface, he’s carefree and outgoing, but dig deeper, and you see someone who’s also reserved and introverted in his own way. His character development, especially the way he handles failing his test, was executed beautifully, and it added depth to his relationship with Jiang Tian.

Benjamin Tsang and Liu Dong, who play the leads, are exceptional in their roles. As someone who watches a lot of BL dramas, I can confidently say their performances were among the best I’ve seen this year.

The slow-burn romance trope was executed perfectly. The tension, especially during key moments, was palpable. Beyond the romance, the series explored various themes like familial pressure, school toxicity, and competition. It covered a lot of ground without feeling overwhelming. The pacing was gradual, and everything felt meaningful.

I also appreciate that the school setting wasn’t just a backdrop. It was integral to the story. You could feel the stress of exams, the pressure of maintaining grades, and the competitive environment between classmates. The school events, like the sports festival, were woven into the plot effectively, making the setting feel authentic and lived-in.

At its core, this drama is about understanding the complexities of life and how our decisions impact not just ourselves but those around us. Jiang and Sheng moving in together caused both of them to confront their own issues. Tian felt trapped, and Wang struggled with his father trying to replace his mother. Yet, over time, these tensions brought them closer. Even Wang's intentional test failures affected their dynamic, driving a wedge between them and forcing them to reevaluate their relationship. These small moments added layers to the story, making it more than just a love story.

The series isn’t solely about romance—it’s about healing. Tian and Wang heal each other in ways that are subtle but powerful. Wang’s friends play a crucial role in his emotional growth, and even the family members find ways to mend old wounds. This theme of healing is what makes The On1y One stand out.

If I had to nitpick, I’d say the production had some room for improvement. There were some awkward voiceovers, particularly with Jenny, and a few cinematography choices felt off, like the VFX in the first episode. These issues didn’t detract from the overall experience, but they were noticeable.

The casting was phenomenal. Every character, from the teachers to the students, had their moment. Even smaller roles, like Uncle Mute and Mr. Ding, felt integral to the plot. But I have to give special mention to Gao Tian Yang—his quirky and fun energy added much-needed levity to the series.

The ending left me a bit puzzled at first. It made me go, "Wait, that’s it?" But after reflecting, I saw how the lemon honey reference tied the story together, especially for Tian and Wang. It feels like they left room for a sequel or at least some special episodes, which I’d love to see.

Beyond the well-executed themes of healing and personal growth, there's an undeniable warmth and comfort that comes through. Despite the emotional struggles and complexities, the characters and their journeys give off a sense of familiarity and belonging. Watching The On1y One feels like coming home, where even through the ups and downs, there’s solace in knowing you’re understood.

This drama isn’t just about love—it's about finding where you truly belong, and that’s what makes it so special.

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cute, but didn't get any emotional connection to it

Boys Be Brave! had the potential to be a sweet and heartwarming BL drama, but unfortunately, it falls short in a few key areas. While the concept of friends-to-lovers living together is cute, the execution feels lackluster. The pacing drags, with the story meandering instead of building emotional tension. The central conflict - Ki Sub moving in uninvited - feels contrived and frustrating, hindering any real connection between the leads.

Adding to this disconnect is a lack of emotional depth with the characters. Despite strong performances from the actors (especially the second lead couple), the main couple's chemistry feels forced. Their expressions often fall flat, failing to convey the genuine affection viewers crave. This is particularly evident in crucial scenes where their relationship takes a step forward.

However, the drama isn't a complete wash. The soundtrack is a bright spot, with catchy tunes that enhance the viewing experience. The cinematography is also well-done, creating a visually pleasing atmosphere. Finally, despite its shortcomings, Boys Be Brave! succeeds in delivering a light and feel-good vibe. If you're looking for a casual watch with no emotional heavy lifting, it might be worth checking out. But for those seeking a BL drama with a powerful emotional connection and well-developed characters, Boys Be Brave! might leave you wanting more.

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Watching this in 2024 is not worth it.

"TharnType: The Series" garnered acclaim during its release year; however, revisiting it in 2024 reveals a somewhat disappointing experience. Perhaps the series' reception was influenced by the demographic and the state of BL genre development in 2019, which may have been less mature compared to later years.

The casting and storyline, while adequate, fail to leave a lasting impression, lacking the depth necessary to captivate viewers who have since been exposed to more refined offerings within the genre. Despite its initial acclaim, the series falls short in providing substantial character development beyond surface-level exploration, particularly in its handling of conflicts and narrative pacing.

Furthermore, the editing issues and excessive focus on intimate scenes detract from the overall viewing experience, making it difficult for the series to strike a balance between romantic elements and a cohesive storyline. While "TharnType: The Series" may have resonated with audiences in its time, it ultimately struggles to hold up to the evolving standards of the BL genre, leaving much to be desired for viewers seeking a more nuanced and engaging narrative.

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a journey to self discovery

The Trainee is a refreshing departure from the typical Thai BL fare, offering a grounded exploration of self-discovery and personal growth. While it may not be a romance-driven series, it effectively captures the complexities of navigating careers and relationships.

Off and Gun's chemistry is excellent, even if their characters' relationship remains platonic. The series delves into the challenges faced by young professionals, with Ryan's naivete and Jane's mentorship creating a relatable dynamic. While the pacing could have been better, the conflicts are generally resolved in a satisfying manner.

The supporting characters, particularly Tae and Ba-Mhee, offer intriguing backstories that complement the main narrative. Pie's character arc is a highlight, showcasing her growth and development. Pah, despite his initial confidence, reveals his insecurities, adding depth to his character.

While the lack of a romantic relationship between Ryan and Jane may disappoint some viewers, the series' focus on self-discovery and personal growth is commendable. The characters' journeys are relatable and authentic.

The production quality of The Trainee is commendable, with impressive cinematography and set design. The series offers moments of humor and insight, making it an enjoyable watch.

Overall, The Trainee is a well-crafted drama that prioritizes personal growth over romantic entanglements. While it may not be a traditional BL, it offers a refreshing and relatable portrayal of young professionals navigating their careers and relationships.

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beautiful and sweet but irritatingly short

Time of Fever is a heartwarming spin-off of Unintentional Love Story that offers a glimpse into the earlier lives of Hotae and Donghee. While the series is brief, it effectively complements the original narrative and provides a satisfying conclusion.

The production value, though different from Unintentional Love Story, adds a unique charm to the series. The color grading and lighting direction, particularly during Hotae's hospital scene, were expertly used to convey their emotions.

Side note: If you didn't catch it the first time, on Episode 6, where Hotae was in the hospital, when he started talking to Donghee, the initial color is bluish representing "sadness" especially Donghee left him, but later on it was mixed with a more yellowish light to represent happiness. But when the call ended, it revert back to bluish because he's sad again. I am talking about this too much because I was in awe when I catch that.

While the series can be confusing for those unfamiliar with Unintentional Love Story, it offers a satisfying ending that speaks volumes through nonverbal communication. Hotae's actions, while somewhat questionable, are understandable given his emotional state.

The cameo appearances and familiar locations add to the nostalgic experience. The decision to keep the series concise and focused on the central relationship was a wise one.

Overall, Time of Fever is a well-crafted spin-off that provides a satisfying conclusion to the story of Hotae and Donghee. While it may be best enjoyed after watching Unintentional Love Story, it offers a heartwarming and fulfilling viewing experience.

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a refreshing dive with peatfort

I’ll be honest, I’m a sucker for simple, heartwarming BL dramas. No dragons, no complicated plotlines—just two guys falling in love and ofcourse, the sea. And Love Sea delivered on that front.

Now, don't get me wrong, the initial episodes had me rolling my eyes at Mook and her naive antics. I mean, girl, please! But then Vie came in and saved the day. Her character was instrumental in Rak's journey to love Mahasamut. And speaking of Vie and Mook, let's just say their chemistry was about as exciting as watching paint dry.

I'm not too familiar with PeatFort's previous works aside for their cameo in Wedding Plan. I might need to check out Love in the Air soon.

Rak's character was a complex mess, a novel writer who preached about love but couldn't seem to grasp it himself. His character development throughout the 11 episodes was commendable. However, his facial expressions sometimes felt a bit awkward but he had his fair share of cute moments that had me giggling.

Mahasamut, on the other hand, was a breath of fresh air. He was naive but in a charming way. His journey from professing his love to Rak and getting rejected was a rollercoaster of emotions that could have been explored further. I must admit, though, that his hairstyle was a constant distraction throughout the series.

Overall, PeatFort did a fantastic job in this drama. It's easy to watch and doesn't require a lot of brainpower. The concept of loving the sea was refreshing, unlike the supernatural elements in Sunset x Vibes. The steamy scenes were effective and not just thrown in for the sake of having them. The kisses were intimate, and there were plenty of laughs to be had.

Meena was an absolute gem. Her performance was exceptional for such a young actress. Her line delivery was on point, making me think she was a seasoned veteran.

While I appreciate the simplicity of the drama, Prin and Rak's father characters felt underutilized. Their emotional payoffs, especially Prin's, could have been more impactful.

And let's not forget the hilarious moment when Mahasamut's tattoo mysteriously disappeared in the diving scene of the special episode. Clearly, they shot that scene before the tattoo scene.

To sum it up, Love Sea is a refreshing and enjoyable Thai BL drama with a few areas for improvement. But overall, it's a heartwarming and lighthearted watch that will leave you feeling happy and content.

Side Note: Am I the only one who thinks Peat kind of looks like ZEROBASEONE Taerae? 😅

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IT NEARLY GAVE WHAT IT WAS SUPPOSED TO GIVE

Okay, I gave this drama a second rewatch. Maybe I didn't focus enough when I watched it the first time.

Some of the things I pointed out still stand. It did leave me with a "Huh? That's it?" reaction in the end. Watching it again didn't provide me with a clear reason why this whole project is confusing.

The story did revolve around the "Business Gay Performance" concept, but it felt like it's going somewhere, but you realized it's already the end. Maybe having many subplots played a part in why this drama felt rushed.

When I was watching EP 8 initially, where they're already confessing to each other, I checked the remaining time and realized it's reaching its end. I was really disappointed.

Let's go to the actors!

Nine, I think, carried (for the main leads). He did act well and show the necessary emotion needed for specific scenes. I'll admit some of his line delivery is monotonous, but you'll give him credit for trying, especially since this is their first drama. And being drowned in BAE173 content due to Love Class 2, I thought he and Hangyul looked similar.

Mill, as mentioned, I understand that this is their first drama, and his acting did show some potential in some parts, and I'll give him credit for that. But I was confused as to why he didn't maintain eye contact, especially in the ending scene. I am not sure if he's looking at Nine's chin or what, and don't get me started on the English lines. I was really thrown off by that.

KB, I still hate his character, so I think he did well. The plot didn't do justice to his potential, to be honest.

Junjie and Rie were alright. They did what they had to do with what was given to them.

Yoojung, let me preface this by saying he might be my favorite member of the group (initially, I said Nine); he's handsome. BUT! Why did his English lines with Mill feel so awkward? They really tried T_T.

I stand by my initial review that this type of idol-casted drama is a "make or break" situation. In the case of OnlyOneOf, I believe that they really tried their best (who wouldn't?), and I'll give credit for that.

Right now, I am really interested in knowing the group further since I am also a K-pop enthusiast. Especially when I did get to know BAE173 and OMEGA X, through BLs as well.

I will end this by saying, if you're their fan (lyOn), I understand why you watched, enjoyed, and liked this drama. And for someone who didn't know the group initially, this might be the best introduction you need to be interested in the group.

Watching their Idol League episode proved that Yoojung is my bias.

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Fights, Friendships, and Bromance Stuck in a Time Capsule

High School Frenemy is a refreshing Thai drama released this year, offering a mix of friendship dynamics, school life, and conflict resolution, all wrapped in a "troublemaker student" narrative. The show effectively balances its core friendship themes with moments of bromance, although the latter feels outdated and underdeveloped in today's context.

The drama's exploration of troubled youth and their relationships is commendable, but the bromance angle, while initially engaging, becomes off-putting due to its overly restrained portrayal. There are moments that clearly call for deeper romantic elements, but the show hesitates, giving the impression of a 2010-era production rather than a 2024 release. The chemistry between Shin and Saint holds potential and, if explored further, could elevate any future projects they undertake together.

While the storyline occasionally falls into predictable patterns, the characters' conflicts still provide a satisfying emotional payoff. Some situations feel exaggerated but are essential to the overall narrative. The fight scenes, integral to the plot, are decently executed, though still teetering on the edge of cringeworthy at times, they align with the premise and tone of the series.

One standout aspect is the character of Chatjen, who emerges as the glue holding the friendship and the story together. Without resorting to physical force, Chatjen's actions and quiet determination drive much of the plot. Seeing Mark take on this role after his performance in Only Friends is a treat; his acting versatility shines here.

The drama’s 12-episode format is a welcome change from the recent trend of shorter Thai BL series. However, the show suffers from unnecessary filler scenes, making some episodes feel drawn out, I found myself skipping nearly 40% of the content. Despite this, the series is still more engaging than recent releases like Sunset x Vibes and The Rebound, to name a few.

Overall, High School Frenemy is an enjoyable watch with a strong premise, albeit slightly bogged down by dated bromance tropes and cringe-worthy moments. Its solid plot and heartfelt exploration of friendship make it a worthwhile addition to this year’s Thai drama lineup.

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Bad Guy... Plot Went MIA

Bad Guy My Boss is a Thai BL drama that initially piqued my interest with its intriguing teasers, but unfortunately, it fell short of delivering the same level of satisfaction in execution. While it’s a consumable watch, it left much to be desired, particularly in terms of coherence and believability.

The series was, at best, a patchwork of ideas thrown together without much concern for narrative consistency. The story lacked clarity and often felt like a compilation of unrelated concepts mashed into a single plotline. This incoherence made it hard to stay invested, and while I did complete the series, it was more out of curiosity than enjoyment. The overreliance on sensual scenes to fill plot gaps was particularly noticeable, and though this may appeal to some viewers, it detracted from the overall storytelling.

That said, there were moments of believability, especially in the subplot featuring Thiti and Thiranai. Their dynamic felt more grounded compared to the main leads, whose interactions often veered into the realm of the unbelievable. Speaking of the main leads, while they were undeniably attractive (Pat without glasses, in particular), their chemistry and character arcs left much to be desired. Pat’s portrayal as a naive, often irritating protagonist showcased some potential but wasn’t enough to carry the series.

The premise of a "sexually induced bad guy" is a challenging one to pull off, and in this case, the execution fell flat. The actor’s lack of skill to embody this complex character type was evident, especially when compared to Pavel’s portrayal in Pit Babe, which, while not exceptional, was at least believable. The sensual scenes, instead of adding depth or tension, often felt gratuitous and misplaced, mirroring the disjointed nature of the plot.

The series reminded me of Unforgotten Night, another Thai BL drama with a similarly incoherent narrative. However, at least Unforgotten Night had a character like Phusanu, whose strong-willed personality added a sense of direction to the story. In contrast, Bad Guy My Boss struggled to establish a clear identity, feeling more like Guy with High Sex Drive Boss Became My Lover.

Overall, Bad Guy My Boss is neither bad nor good, it sits squarely in the middle, as a series that’s watchable but not memorable. While it might appeal to viewers looking for a light, uninvolved watch, it’s not something I’d rewatch intentionally.

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a missed slam dunk?

The Rebound is a disappointing Thai BL drama that fails to deliver on its potential. Despite featuring a talented cast and a promising premise, the series suffers from a messy storyline, inconsistent pacing, and underwhelming performances.

The series' focus on basketball and the challenges faced by student athletes could have been a compelling narrative. However, the lack of depth in the characters' personal lives and the inclusion of unnecessary subplots detract from the overall experience. The gangster arc, in particular, feels forced and out of place.

Additionally, the pairing of Meen and Ping in this drama initially didn't generate much excitement for me, as I had similar reservations about their chemistry in Ai Long Nhai and after watching My Dear Gangster Oppa.

While the cinematography is commendable, the acting performances are uneven. Meen's monotonous delivery and Ping's awkward expressions hinder their ability to connect with the audience. The supporting characters, such as Atom and Shogun was underutilized and fail to make a lasting impression.

The series' focus on multiple couples is a missed opportunity. The lack of depth in the relationships and the rushed pacing prevent the audience from fully connecting with the characters.

The final bed scene, intended to salvage the series, falls flat and fails to compensate for the shortcomings of the storytelling.

The Rebound had the potential to be a slam dunk, but it ultimately misses the mark.

The series could have benefited from a more focused narrative, stronger character development, and a more compelling exploration of the challenges faced by student athletes.

Despite its flaws, The Rebound offered a glimpse into the world of basketball and its challenges.

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delightful balance of sweet and spicy

Love in the Air is a delightful Thai BL drama that effectively balances two central romantic relationships. Unlike many multi-couple dramas that struggle with pacing or character development, Love in the Air seamlessly integrates the storylines of Rain/Payu and Pai/Sky, providing a satisfying narrative for both pairs.

The series boasts impressive cinematography and well-executed intimate scenes, particularly between Rain and Payu. It's refreshing to see a school-based drama that genuinely focuses on academic pursuits and extracurricular activities, rather than treating them as mere backdrops. Love in the Air blends the story of Pit Babe (with lesser make love scenes) with the competitive spirit of My School President.

While the drama excels in many areas, it does have a few minor flaws. The jealous tendencies of the couples, especially after their feelings are established, can sometimes feel repetitive. Additionally, the repeated initial scene could have been edited more effectively.

Of the two couples, Pai and Sky's storyline is particularly compelling, with Sky's sassy demeanor and Pai's emotional depth creating a captivating dynamic. The assault scene involving Sky could have been handled with more emotional impact, but the overall narrative remains engaging.

While some supporting characters, like the racing boss, could have been introduced more thoroughly, the kidnapping scene, though predictable, doesn't significantly detract from the overall enjoyment. Pai and Payu's relationship offers valuable insights into the challenges of navigating a relationship with an overthinker and overly assuming partner.

Overall, Love in the Air is a well-crafted drama that effectively balances multiple storylines, offers engaging characters, and provides a satisfying viewing experience.

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nothing unforgettable here.

Unforgotten Night is a disappointing Thai BL drama that fails to deliver on its premise. Despite the attractive leads, the series suffers from lackluster performances, awkward chemistry, and an underwhelming storyline. The BDSM elements are poorly executed and fail to create the desired intensity. The mafia setting is also underdeveloped, falling far short of the engaging portrayals seen in dramas like KinnPorsche.

While the series has a few redeeming moments, such as the confrontation scene between Cherry and Kim, these are overshadowed by the overall weaknesses. The supporting characters, particularly Cherry, are underutilized despite their potential. The inclusion of scenes in the trailer that are not in the final product adds to the confusion and disappointment.

Ultimately, Unforgotten Night is a FORGETTABLE experience that fails to leave a lasting impression. While the leads may have future projects worth watching, this series is unlikely to be remembered fondly.

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VERY STRAIGHTFORWARD WITH INITIAL RUSHED PACING

City of Stars is a straightforward Thai BL that offers a familiar yet refreshing take on the actor-idol-in-love trope. While the plot follows a predictable trajectory of love, challenges, and a happy ending, the series manages to stand out with its brisk pacing and engaging character arcs. The rapid development of Fueang and Krom’s relationship, although unconventional, allows for more intricate conflict exploration. Unfortunately, some of these conflicts feel rushed, depriving them of the emotional depth they could have attained.

Job's portrayal of Fueang is commendable, with his expressive acting and undeniable chemistry with his co-star. Krom's character, on the other hand, initially comes across as monotonous but gradually evolves into a more nuanced portrayal. The series effectively captures the dynamics between fans, actors, and the media, highlighting the importance of respecting artists’ personal lives. Although laden with kisses, the intimate scenes feel genuine and contribute to the overall sweetness of the drama.

It's a pleasant surprise to see Kimmon, known for his role in 2 Moons, reprise his acting career as Kodit. His noticeable acting improvement is impressive, and his presence adds depth to the series.

Ultimately, City of Stars is an easy-to-watch series that delivers a satisfying conclusion while providing some valuable insights into the pressures of fame.

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SWEET AND I'M OBSESSED!

Primarily drawn to the series due to my admiration for Saint from Love By Chance, I found myself invested in Secret Crush on You despite his limited role. The first half of the show is undeniably cringe-inducing, accurately capturing the intensity of an obsessive crush. While Toh and Khao's characters often bordered on naivete, their dynamic was undeniably endearing at times. Toh's performance, in particular, was commendable for its extreme yet realistic portrayal of infatuation. Neua's character, though initially one-dimensional, benefited from his strong visual presence.

The supporting cast, Toh's group of friends, delivered authentic performances, showcasing a genuine camaraderie that was refreshing to watch. Despite skipping some unnecessary scenes, the series effectively conveyed the lengths people go to for love. Toh and Neua's relationship, while unrealistic, provided a sweet escape from reality. However, the series' true standout was its original soundtrack, especially "You're Magic in My Life," a captivating tune that added depth to the overall viewing experience.

While the core premise was executed well, the series lacked depth in certain areas, such as the character development of Neua when he discovered Toh's obsessive nature. The potential impact of this revelation was underutilized. Additionally, the character of Prao could have been explored further to enhance the overall storyline. Despite these shortcomings, Secret Crush on You offers a unique and entertaining viewing experience, provided viewers approach it with an open mind and a willingness to embrace its over-the-top moments.

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