Revisiting Iconic TV: Struggle Between Creator and Fandom

Returning to a classic universe and beloved characters is a complex investment. Revisiting a popular fictional scenario sounds great. A ready-made fanbase means guaranteed high ratings and positive reviews, right? The answer is a complicated yes and no.

Revivals like Teen Wolf: The Movie, Veronica Mars, and Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life all highlighted the quandary of revisiting TV show worlds, especially those that begin in a character’s teen years, and then return after a few years to showcase the characters’ adult lives.

 

Most revivals prove a crash and burn experience that rarely leads to another screen outing. Why? In simple terms, the expectations of viewers and the vision of the writer/creator rarely align. Both sides are emotionally invested, yet hold different priorities.  

Creator vs Fan

The question, of course is who does the world belong to? Without the series creator and their imagination and vision, it would not exist. But it could not have been renewed each season without a loyal audience providing consistently successful ratings.

 

The relationship is symbiotic. Both groups need each other. But when it comes to a TV show return, the parameters of the relationship have changed. Often, the new dynamic fails to satisfy due in part to differing expectations of the fictional world’s evolution.

 

This is never more obvious than when the audience met their heroes as insecure teenagers. To fans, those onscreen connections were special/unbreakable, and lead characters were meant to become happy and successful, personally and/or professionally.

Writers and Conflict

For the creator, revisiting the show means a chance to throw new challenges at the characters. But having given the series some form of closure in the finale, they feel the need to deliver a world where the previously created or implied HEA is now toast.

 

Audiences assume the series will begin again at the next phase of Happily Ever After—even if chaos ensues later. Yet creators consistently begin a series in a familiar world with a discontented, messy set-up, fueling viewer dissatisfaction from the get-go.

 

One of two paths is usually taken. In pursuit of conflict, writers may regress characters in a revisited series so they can return to a similar narrative framework, rehashing variations of past plots, albeit now with world-weary versions of popular characters.

 

Alternately, writers choose the complete opposite, presenting new relationships, new settings, and almost new personalities for those in beloved fictional worlds, sometimes completely at odds with the iconic small screen reality fans have cherished.

 

For the creator, the original episodes were birthed by their past self who lived in another world, with a different perspective. In a sense they’re burdened by the expectation of new output that somehow reflects who they were then, not who they are now.

Fans and Character Growth

Fans are often genuinely invested in the happiness of iconic characters. Having watched their personal journey for years—a staggered upward climb of growing self-awareness and personal evolution—audiences assume this evolution continued post-series.

 

For the fans, iconic characters are larger than life. For the creators, humanizing these icons with mundane failures and disappointments is more appealing, often wiping clean series elements considered canon that originally endeared the show to audiences.

 

Fans can also forget reality itself has changed in the interim. Many beloved TV shows of the past are now criticized for problematic content in terms of representation, whether racial, sexual or gender-oriented. Definitions of acceptable humor also change.

 

A few hours cannot provide equal emotional satisfaction as multiple seasons of TV, especially if fans waited years for a “faithful” revisit. Minutes spent on new characters feel wasted, even if creators view these as reflective of authentic life changes.

 

Treatment of ships also fuels fan dissatisfaction. Romantic couples the series spent years creating, may be swept aside in a revisit, the break-up in the show’s past. Fun for the writer who gets to play with new dynamics. Not so fun for invested fandoms.

Practical Considerations

A fan of a series expects the most popular stars to appear, and the most beloved ships to continue or eventuate. Yet certain talent can be in high demand, impossible to schedule, too expensive for the project, or contracted to competitor networks.

 

Stars can also be uninterested. Perhaps they didn’t enjoy working on the show, or playing a popular character hindered their career post-series, making them unwilling to bring the character to life again. Management could argue against an appearance.

 

Studios and production companies may have “thoughts” on the focal points of the new outing. General audiences remember the hit years, not so much later storylines, leading to a push for a return to set-ups marketed early on in the original series.

Lessons Learned

The undocumented time period between the original series and the follow-up series or film, is a lead source of conflict. Making the time gap larger, and/or the changes in circumstance starker and more unexpected, simply exacerbates an already thorny issue.

 

Imagine an old friend you admire moved overseas to marry and enjoy a new job, with plans to have multiple children. Later, you meet again to discover they are now unemployed, widowed, and their remaining family member has a terminal illness.

 

Now, imagine instead they’re happy when you reconnect but have returned to a similar state of affairs as when you met a decade ago. Both of these scenarios feel an unsatisfactory outcome for a loved friend—and echo fan responses to revisited television.

 

A battle between two groups who believe they “know” the best path forward for a fictional universe. For creators, finding an effective middle ground that honors the past while shaping a longer future for the series, is frankly easier said than done.

Why Hellbound is the Standout Series for 2021

 An intelligent scripted TV series that holds a mirror to modern culture was never going to be widely embraced.

Hellbound is a South Korean 6 episode series that sees random members of the community receiving messages warning of their time of upcoming death. Bizarre creatures appear, brutally killing the condemned, before disappearing again, seemingly into thin air.

As expected, the increase in killings has severe ramifications on society. The plot starts just as the phenomena begins, taking us through the ensuing years.

Hellbound tackles hard issues, including religion, and government: the symbiosis that develops, and the way religious organisations generally adapt to the fears of the many, while benefiting the few.

South Korean dramas are often lauded for quality writing, and this is no exception. But while critics celebrate the series, less enthused reviews by the everyday global audience are showing more about the reviewers, than the material itself.

The anger of those who don't like to think beyond the obvious; the confusion of those who have lost the ability to process storytelling that isn't simply a spoon-fed linear narrative; the indignation of those made uncomfortable at the portrayal of judgmental and dogmatic mindsets.

The unease of those unwilling to consider the role of religion in their behavioural patterns; the boredom of those for whom television only entertains if it is truly empty of social commentary.

The discomfort of those who see aspects of themselves onscreen, and the outrage of those who want to live in a shallow world rather than imagine reshaping it.

…Do I sound critical? That's because I am. Entertainment doesn't need to be empty, or an endless visceral thrill. Contrary to today’s popular thinking, television that challenges are not inherently flawed.

The creatures of Hellbound are a metaphor for occurrences that humanity cannot explain. In response, society will always attempt to create a suitable narrative. This is the way it has always been. And often, when fear prevails, there is an ugliness embedded in the result.

Many have criticised Hellbound for plot holes, when they actually mean character inconsistencies that accurately reflect human irrationality, especially in the face of an existential crisis.

The pandemic itself has shown humanity’s obsession with choosing a narrative: creating a personal or societal mish mash of beliefs to uphold the idea of a reality they can accept. It can be argued, the discomfort and dissatisfaction with Hellbound arises from resentment at this subconscious tendency being placed under scrutiny.

The unknown has always fascinated writers. Hellbound offers us the result of a society dealing with the unexplainable. It also encompasses personal journeys within this context. Often gritty, and gory, it isn’t fun. It’s brutal, challenging, and riveting.

Characters grapple with existential dread, revenge vs justice, the definition of sin, and the complexities of family. While there are traditionally “good” characters, they are in the minority. Almost everyone becomes flawed and erratic under the pressure.

Equating death with “failed” living permeates the human consciousness. Hellbound takes that vague discomfort and moves it to the forefront. The point of life becomes avoiding premature death.

On the technical front, I loved the dark cinematography and the story’s structure. The cast are outstanding. My only real criticism was that the monster CGI wasn’t as disturbing in the way the story itself. I found the dementors in Harry Potter much more unsettling. I think if they had been amorphous, they would have proven more visually impacting.

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.