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