Thai TV, and Guy on Guy Love

BL means Boy Love and refers to guy on guy romance. Thailand in particular has growing success with its BL entertainment industry. The dramas are scripted television shows, generally set in high school, college, or focused on men in their twenties exploring same sex relationships.

While originally marketed to the gay male gaze, BL has proven as much of a hit with straight women and some straight men. The increased interest has many pondering why exactly more viewers enjoy (if not prefer) watching two guys hook up?

Here are a few reasons this genre is appealing across the board.

WHY THAI BL IS SO POPULAR

No Female Representation Issues

Two guys in love means avoiding problematic gender stereotypes. The series doesn't have to struggle with portraying modern women in the sometime confining tropes of traditional romcoms. All guy/girl rules are off the table.

For many educated, independent women the genre has become a guilty pleasure. The happily ever after ending preferred by audiences for hetero romances can sometime clash with evolving ideas of positive female representation onscreen. 

But here, the romantic tropes are present without that troublesome aspect. Viewers can enjoy the meet cute, first kiss, love declaration etc. without having to unpack how women are presented.

BL says Suck It To Homophobia

Love By Chance

Part of the appeal is the creation of school and college environments where the coolest guy on campus is open about his love for another guy, and his friends roll with it the same way they would if he were dating a girl.

With gay relationships still taboo in many cultures, it is liberating to see open representation. The level of sexual content differs from drama to drama, but kisses are common and on par with hetero romances.

Thai BL dramas include male love interests who aren't gay but are only interested in a one guy: their true love. I like how romantic that idea is. Across the board you get a heap of different representations, some characters stating they are gay, or bi.

BL Appeals To The Modern Hetero Female Gaze

Sotus

For decades it has been accepted two women making out onscreen will be a turn on to straight men. Yet two men kissing are supposed to repulse women. The double standard is ridiculous.

I would argue it comes from a subconscious societal sell that sex with a man is always better—whether you're a man or a woman. That's why women are supposed to feel threatened rather than aroused by two men together.

Today's younger generation isn't really bothered by these old-fashioned concepts, and is happy to ship two guys. BL appeals to fans of shows with romance and relationships, serious drama and comedic elements.

BL TV is A Relatively Fresh and Evolving Genre

 

Waterboyy

Obviously guy on guy romance has been around for a long time but as a television genre it is growing and becoming less niche, and more mainstream. The great thing about BL is that it is always expanding and developing new tropes.

Representation is important. BL dramas address discrimination and cultural pressures, especially from older generations. Seeing same sex male couples exploring their feelings onscreen is imperative.

And playing gay characters has no negative impact on the talents' standing with hetero fans. BL dramas boost the cast's careers. The Thai stars model for top brands, begin pop groups, and hold sell out fan events.

THE ENDLESS ON-GOING DISCUSSIONS

Where BL from Thailand really excels, is in its ability to kick-start conversation about accepted norms, new ideas, and emerging problematic elements. Some of the points that you will see constantly discussed online in regards to BL Thai TV shows include the following hot topics.

BL is Not Made For Men

 

Two Moon 2

This is really interesting, and stems from the fact many of the most popular writers of Thai BL are women. Perhaps because romance is considered a traditionally feminine genre of fiction?

Some gay male viewers argue because the onscreen romance is imagined by a straight woman, the gay characters are exhibiting behavior a woman would find appealing rather than a gay man.

Other gay male viewers argue male gay relationships have just as much right to be "traditionally" romantic as straight ones. Many enjoy seeing two guys experience behavior romantic comedies have presented onscreen for decades.

BL Isn't Sexual Enough

Two Moons

Tying in to the previous points, some argue BL is too emotion-based, reflecting female ideals rather than gay male ideals. Certain popular BLs are seen as excessively sweet/innocent for a portion of gay male viewers.

Others argue they like seeing something that goes against overtly sexualized stereotypes of gay men. Rather than just being sexual in nature, BL television attempts to address the emotional stages of a relationship.

I would argue some recent BL has been more openly sexual and like most romantic comedy, the genre now offers a broad spectrum of content. There is material for those who want a sweet, slow build, and those who want immediately sexual.

BL and Violence In Relationships

 

TharnType

You may see violet encounters in Thai BL dramas. But it's important to note violent behavior is often seen in Lakorns (Thai versions of soaps) so culturally it's tied in a complicated way with concepts of passion in Thai small screen storytelling.

Some BL features relationships that begin with drunken or forced sexual encounters are obviously problematic for viewers. But today's BL now also addresses rape and it's harrowing aftermath so this aspect is under scrutiny.

The issue of slapping and punching partners is also criticized. But it does bring gender double standards into the spotlight, as well as the difference in acceptable behavior when male friendship becomes a sexual relationship.

BLs Are Cheap Productions

It's true many BLs are produced on a shoestring budget (continuity issues are one reflection of this) but that is arguably part of the charm. They may not be as glossy as big budget efforts, but there is an undeniable sense of realism.

Often adapted from online stories, they include a lot of product placement that pays for a large part of the production fees. I would argue this is a clever way for the ambitious to ensure the stories reach the small screen.

At times the writer or director has self-funded the production. Episodes are translated (often by fan subbers) into many languages within days, if not hours of release, proving the genre has a passionate fan base.

WHAT TO WATCH?

There are dozens of Thai BL dramas out there with more going into production every month. Here is a mix of suggestions (not really in a particular order) but do check out websites like MyDramaList that are dedicated to exploring Asian film and television.

If possible, find the official links. There are endless pirated copies online and on YouTube. The creators need the viewing numbers to gain funding for sequels, so look through the comments for feedback from fans on the right website or YouTube channel.

10. TharnType

This series caused a lot of heated discussion, and has a large fan base. The plot follows two college roommates who get along well until the homophobic character discovers his roommate is gay—and in love with him.

Rape and PTSD (not within the relationship, but as survivors), aggressive seduction, and aggressive behavior within a relationship are what fired up some viewers and caused a lot of interesting dialogue online.

More sexually explicit than most, this offers a lot of food for thought. I think it is noteworthy because it attempts to tackle some really complex topics. How successfully it does so is up to viewers to decide.

9. Sotus: The Series

To be honest I'm not a big fan of Sotus because of the hazing. The story follows a freshman that gets on the wrong side of a senior in the engineering department. Their conflict during the hazing process is hardcore.

I've been told this kind of tradition is common in some Asian colleges, and exaggerated here for dramatic effect. Also that it reflects the respect for age seniority that is part of Thai culture, something Westerners don't completely grasp.

The lead couple is a nice mix of comfortably gay (from my impression?) and reserved guy surprised by his attraction to another man. It's easy to see how their evolving connection became so popular with viewers.

8. 2 Moons 2

An interesting drama experiment, kind of a reboot mixed with a sequel. Two Moons was a popular series that I'm guessing ran into issues with the sequel? (Not sure if cast, production or both).

Here they recast everyone, and shot parts of the first season again, so it's condensed, and then continued the story. This led to comparisons between the two. People who watched only this one had a different take.

It's fascinating to see how new actors interpret the roles, if the impression of the relationship seems different with certain scenes omitted, and whether or not each viewer glides smoothly into the sequel.

7. The Effect

This is a very short drama, and really harrowing. I didn't realize at first, so I was enjoying the straightforward, almost too sweet romance—although I do remember thinking it was a tad obsessive.

Let's not sugarcoat it. This drama is about trusting someone, and being sexually assaulted by them. It's about the harm gossip and social media can do. It's also made clear mental health issues are a big part of this situation.

Many have voiced appreciation for this exploration of same sex rape. The Effect is not fun viewing, but it obviously touched a chord among the audience. Watch if you can handle the intense subject matter.

6. Love By Chance

A series that probably evokes the most mixed response… The lead couple is great. I enjoyed their developing protector/protected connection. Second couple Tin and Can have that interesting love/hate meet-cute.

The scene where Pete comes out to his mom is wonderful. (Side note: The script often points out Pete is beautiful and Ae is not, and you see this celebration of white skin and height a lot in Thai dramas.)

Unfortunately the rape that seems to lead to a relationship for a minor couple is profoundly disturbing, and contrasts jarringly with the tone of the other relationships in the drama. Hopefully the sequel addresses this!

5. He's Coming To Me

What can make a romantic drama even better? That would be a supernatural element. In this case, one of our lovers is a ghost that crosses paths with a guy who can see him. Over time friendship, and then love ensues.

Star-crossed lovers are always good fodder for romantic television. The mystery element drives the story. I want to say this is a haunting series (excuse the pun), with a great cast and solid scripting.

In a genre made up of super sweet and cute romantic encounters, He 's Coming To Me brings a nice change of pace to the viewing list. Slightly shorter than a lot of other dramas, it sits at eight episodes.

4. 2 Moons

2 Moons is really popular, partly because of the cast, many of whom went on to form a pop group. The plot sees a shy guy go to the same college as his popular crush—although their first (re)meeting does not go to plan!

Everyone in 2Moons is profoundly charming. I would say they are contenders for the most likeable cast in a BL drama. And the whole series maintains a particular type of humor that is consistently engaging.

This BL is super sweet and unashamedly romantic. We're talking roses, jewelry and lots of mooning (lol). Not for those who like their BL grittier, and with kissing, not to mention more explicit skinship scenes.

3. Theory of Love

Two popular BL actors star in this drama, and White from Lovesick is in a supporting role. Third is a college student secretly in love with his best friend Khai. Eventually Khai realizes, and let's just say it's a rough road to love.

The initial unrequited love plot is frustrating, unhealthy, and so realistic. Maybe because even the lead is self-aware in regards to how toxic the dynamic is with his bestie. The two supporting friends are fabulous.

The series switches between the two leads' perspectives. I would argue this is its strength, and its weakness. I really admired the costuming, cinematography, editing, and set design.

2. Until We Meet Again

A sweet BL that tugs at the heartstrings, this ties two consecutive love stories: In and his forbidden gay relationship with Korn, the son of a mafia boss in the past, and Pharm and Dean as the reincarnated souls of the lovers (who committed suicide).

I'm a sucker for reincarnated doomed lovers and references to red strings of fate. I also enjoyed the way this drama showcases different Thai recipes, the ingredients and cooking techniques, and the symbolism attached to dishes.

Sexually this is quite innocent. It focuses more on the characters dealing with the aftermath of their past lives. Pharm has panic attacks when he hears loud noises (they shot themselves in their past lives), and Dean spends his youth looking for someone (his lost love).

1. Love Sick: The Series

I think of Love Sick as a modern classic. There have been Thai BL shows before it, but something about this series really struck a chord, making its two stars White and Captain international icons.

The story follows Phun, a guy who wants to avoid his dad's matchmaking by pretending he is dating his friend Noh. Except over time, the fake factor turns into a realistic relationship. Not great news for the two girls they're seeing…

I consider the first episode to be terrible, and the show overall is raw and clumsy—and that is exactly why it seems real, and resonates with so many fans. In the end, everyone adores Phun and Noh's awkward journey to love.

IN THE FUTURE

A Tale of Thousand Stars

There are a heap of Thai BL releases coming up, as the genre grows in popularity.

Hopefully Western companies will get on board and add to BL productions internationally. And of course, begin to explore all different kinds of sexual relationships onscreen, regardless of gender or preference.

Modern television needs to reflect a changing world, and continue to offer stories that both entertain while expanding the perspective of an international audience.

Why We Need A Jedi TV Series Set In The Modern World

Now Star Wars films are falling from the sky like a meteor shower of Force-inspired entertainment, maybe Disney will unleash Star Wars in an alternative universe, and modern urban setting.

KPop group EXO released the single Lightsaber in 2015, a collaborative project with Disney promoting Star Wars II The Force Awakens. In the music video cool Jedi youths roamed the streets, visited a bar, ran into a slick Sith, and were just hip AF with lighsabers on hand.

I found these minutes of footage way more interesting than all recent Star Wars films combined. The idea of Jedi and Sith gangs roaming the streets, fighting to rule the underworld or maintain the law… Could anything be cooler?

Transplanting Jedis into the present day or near future offers a host of fabulous storytelling and aesthetic opportunities. Forget maintaining the timeline, or keeping visual consistency. Restrictions are minimal. Instead, go wild creating a fresh, dark, street style infused Jedi world.

And the stories! The same kind of tale that inspired the original Star Wars can easily be put in play. Ruling party corruption, dodgy officials, power struggles, and arguments over belief systems—the list of potential plot points is endless. But modern aspects can easily be integrated too, so the take is familiar yet fresh.

Lightsaber fights in a location that is a tad Blade Runner would be brilliant. Forget bikie gangs, mafia families, and fighting for thrones now the Jedis and Siths are in town. An urban Star Wars TV show would be lit (pun intended).

An alternate reality means different drugs, wilder music, and a new world order. And the robotics! With the right production team, this could be a seriously creative explosion of small screen storytelling.

Come on Disney. Be bold. Use the Force. Seize the day.

Note: You can watch the music video for Lightsaber by EXO on the SMTOWN YouTube channel.

TV's Obsession With Women In Their Underwear

There are whole days and nights in my life where I've had clothes on. But in TV Land (and film for the sake of argument), it's almost an impossible ask for a female character.

A few years back I started realizing how many scenes female talent are asked to do in underwear. Now it's getting ridiculous. If it were a drinking game, every night spent watching TV would leave viewers a drunken mess.

Someone told me all these underwear scenes are actually empowering. Apparently if the underwear isn't lacy, it's a girl power moment. And when lacy, a woman is owning her hotness. I disagree on all fronts. I think it's still sexualization, glossed with a feminist sheen.

Representation of women on television has always been tricky, and an uphill battle from the early days of the small screen for women to be presented as complex, nuanced characters. Now they're complex, nuanced characters—who don't always get to wear clothes.

If you're unclear on what I'm talking about, here are a dozen recurring women-in-her-underwear onscreen scenarios. It's becoming the norm for women to act without clothes on. In a lot of cases a stretchy singlet replaces a bra but I'm counting it as underwear. I think it's meant to stop anyone from calling out the sexualization but in fact it's preferred cause it shows more nipple.

While I think it's fine for the occasional dash of realism, it's unrealistic—if not downright ridiculous— for so many scenes to be done without clothing. In today's world, it would be great if female actresses got to be dressed as often as their male counterparts. Wild idea, right?

1. Morning Undies

You see this a lot in "serious" television. Like procedurals, and legal dramas. A female character wakes up, and gets out of bed. We get an underwear and bra or singlet shot, and then she dresses, usually pulling on jeans.

Thing is, the male characters more often start the day wearing a t-shirt in bed. Then it's a cut to the breakfast table. Or we meet them coming downstairs of a morning, or in the car on the way to work.

Why do women have to begin the day with a gratuitous flesh shot?

Once you see this pattern, you can't unsee it, and it will really annoy you.

2. Argument Undies

No idea why, but female characters on TV love to save their argument scenes for when they're in their underwear. 

I don't know about you, but I like to fight with my clothes on. 

3. Underwear And One More Drink

Apparently women without (most of their) clothes and booze go hand in hand.

When men on TV drink alone, it's usually in a t-shirt or shirt, and they have a beer. Or when they've had a hard day at work, they pull off their tie, undo a few buttons, and go the hard stuff like scotch or whisky.

Female characters on the other hand, like to drink at home in their undies. Usually it's wine, but if they're hardcore in a down to earth way they wear a singlet instead of a bra with their pants, and drink beer from a bottle.

The funniest version is when it's cold so they wear a jumper or a wrap while they drink. In their underwear.

Still unclear why women can't get drunk with their pants on.

4. Locker Room Dresslessness

This one is especially true for high school dramas but pops up anywhere with change rooms, like the gym or the workplace. The girls pause and have a conversation in bras and undies. 

Guys, however, usually don't have a top on, but they are wearing pants. The least they wear are boxers. Why is that?

5.  Undies In Space

Storytelling in outer space offers endless opportunities for women-in-underwear scenes. 

A lot of the time this is presented as authenticity because the female characters are in no-nonsense undies and singlets. Thing is, I follow NASA on Insta and female astronauts seem to be doing a-okay in t-shirts and stuff.

On TV women prefer to fly their ships in as little clothing as possible. And when they wake up from stasis, they rarely get dressed. Likewise if they live and work in space, they just stick to boy short panties. Apparently this is clothing in orbit. Maybe the lack of gravity does something to the brain.

6. Type This

If you want to read emails or find information online, you do it in your underwear. Most googling in TV Land is done wearing undies, whether lying on the bed, sitting at the desk or relaxing on the couch. 

Do search engines work better when women are unclothed? It's a question for the ages.

7. Prison Slash Experimental Facility Undies 

When a character wakes up in prison, especially a futuristic one, she is usually in pants and the singlet alternate version of a bra. Are coveralls or even a shift too much to ask for?

Same for when she's being experimented on, or used for organ harvesting. She's stripped down to her undies. I don't know why she wouldn't be in a hospital style gown, or alternately just naked.

Maybe a bad guy can explain.

8. The Underwear Dance

Television insists that when women bop around at home to pop music, they can't put pants or a skirt on. Or shorts. Or even a wrap.

You get the drift. 

It's still not clear why a female character can't dance around the house dressed.

9. Underwear/Makeup/Conversation Combo

This one is so popular and legit drives me up the wall.

Women on TV put makeup on before clothes. I understand if the fashion has to go over their head but usually it's a shirt. And they're often applying lipstick so it won't make a difference?

Also they have a female friend or gay male friend over, and they drop a heap of exposition. In their bra. Once again I'm a weird person who usually has clothes on before chatting with friends, whatever their sexual orientation.

10. Undies 'n Ugly Crying

Men on television rarely curl up in a ball of despair against the wall in their undies but this is a standard TV show move for female characters. Whether drinking, just having gotten a phone call that was basically A REVEAL, or dealing with a wild plot twist, women will slide to the ground in their underwear and have a meltdown.

Are they supposed to look more vulnerable this way? Is it another opportunity to bring the sexy back? Or a little of both?

11. Answering The Door In Your Undies

Many times on television, female characters answer the door in their undies. (Sometimes they have a gun, but that seems like a sub-category,) The front door, the back door, the side door, and the door to the basement—is this is going to a weird place? And now I'm multi-punning.

Sometimes they throw on a jacket or dressing gown but leave it hanging open which seems pointless.

I asked a friend if she'd ever answered the door in her underwear and she looked at me as if I were crazy. "So that's a no?"

12. Undies And The Apocalypse

When the world ends and things get weird with bunkers and roaming militia, we're back to the singlet-as-bra and undies combo. 

I feel like when times are tough, I'd at least want a nice cardigan.