A Tale of a Thousand Stars (2021)

the most gorgeous show i've ever seen

i seriously almost didnt watch this show bc the whole thing with the heart kinda freaked me out and for some reason i thought it would be like... torfun's feelings for phupha or something but lmao i was very wrong. this show... was so worth waiting for. first of all, the ost is absolutely gorgeous. i fell for the soundtrack, and i usually never really pay much attention to soundtracks on bls but this one... whew.

this show is genuinely gorgous and is probably the best bl ive ever seen. a tale of thousand stars is practically perfect. i mean, of course there are little aspects people may pick out but i seriously think it was amazing. and omg the ending!! *sobs violently* (in a good way)

but my point of writing this is that you need to watch it. this show had practically everything i already loved and sm more.

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More a slice of life drama than a romance

This was one of the most anticipated BL dramas that I wanted to watch in the past year. The story, and the actors that would be playing the parts, really intrigued me. The storyline that involves organ transplantation, specifically the heart, is not a new idea, but it certainly hasn’t been overdone either. There were many parts of the drama that lived up to my expectations. The acting, the cinematography, the dilemma in the story of someone else’s life being sacrificed for your own. And overall I really liked the themes that were presented of camaraderie , family, friendship and living a simple contented life.

However, to call this a romance....is a little generous. I would call it bromance more than anything. I did not feel romantic chemistry between the main couple, though they had good acting chemistry. I know it may be petty, but I was extremely disappointed to not get any kind of affectionate overtures from them until the last episode. And until the last minute they didn’t even kiss each other! Now I understand culturally there is a difference in how romantic couples may show their affection. As well as the characters personalities. But you also have to sell me on some kind of physical attraction in order to believe that these two seemingly heterosexual man all of a sudden are romantically interested each other and want to spend their life together. I would be interested in reading the book and seeing if it differed in this way. Maybe they were trying to keep it rated “G” in order to appeal to a larger audience on television?

That said, I don’t feel like I wasted my time watching it. The child actors were very good and adorable. I liked the themes and the general storyline and how one can change their life for the better. But I would not watch this again, and I definitely would not recommend it to someone as being a romance. It’s more like a slice of life drama.

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REMARKABLE AND REALISTIC : TRULY, A BEAUTIFUL STORY OF LOVE, ACCEPTANCE AND FORGIVENESS

Everything about this series will give you a lot of realizations as well things to love and lessons to be learned for the following reasons:

1. This series strays away from the university tropes because of the setting (rural village) that the characters are in. In addition to that, the series focuses on one couple (Tian and Phupha) and it does not rely on other side couples just to sustain the interest or attention of the viewers. Personally, I prefer a series with just one couple so that we could focus on it like Manner of Death instead of scattered side plots or side characters.

2. This series is REALISTIC AND WHOLESOME because of the situations that the main characters are facing like the considerations that they have to ponder in their relationship (their age gap, how society will see them and also the fact that Tian comes from a different family background etc.).

3. This series is not the typical fast paced plot with hot steamy scenes or kissing scenes because the relationship of the couple here is slow burn and I'm glad they put it that way. We need more dramas that portray relationships in a manner that there is progress and development. If you're into slow burn relationships, you will surely love this because of the wholesomeness of Tian and Phupha. I'm also glad that the director made this drama in a manner that it flows naturally in which the sweet or subtle moments of the characters are enough.

4. The series itself is giving a MESSAGE to the audience because of the life lessons that it's giving and it will surely touch you.
"Happiness can be found in the simplest things that we have."
"We all make mistakes. What is important is what we can learn from those mistakes."
"Where we feel our happiness is where we feel at home."
"Do your best and don't be discouraged by the obstacles that you have to face."
"Things might have been damaged or broken but nothing can bring us down so long as we have Love and Unity."

5. The ACTING, PRODUCTION AND OST USED IS BEAUTIFUL.
-I love the way Mix had portayed his characted in the story (Tian). I'm amazed by his facial expressions especially his eye expressions. Mix definitely stole the show from me. The way he expressed his character is amazing (Tian's happiness and sadness etc.)
Let's also not forget about Earth. How he expressed his character Phupha is remarkable. Their subtle flirting as well as their stares are ❤️?... I'm also amazed by their chemistry. Kudos to them as well as to the other supporting characters most especially Tul (Tian's bestfriend) and Longtae!!
For the OST, I can say that it is definitely one of the best soundtracks of dramas I've heard because of the emotions the OST is giving. Also, the PRODUCTION AND VISUAL for the drama is well thought. You can really see the effort everyone had put through into making this series. Lastly, the CINEMATOGRAPHY IS STUNNING. You get to see places that are beautiful as well as everyone who was involved in the series who made it aesthetically pleasing that it will also touch your heart. This series is definitely a MASTERPIECE.

In conclusion, I thank the people for creating this series and be looking forward to more series like this in the future... :)

Edit : I just finished watching the last episode and this is definitely what we (viewers / audience ) need. A good ending. No cliff hangers, No open ending but A Wholesome ending for a Captivating Story..

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One word: Beautiful

I've been waiting for this series to air since the first trailer drops, and when it does air, it does not disappoint at all. I didn't really get my hopes up but it exceeded my expectation, really.

I love how the relationship between Tian and Phupha develops ever so naturally. Like it just happens. They spend time together and gradually grow fond of each other's presence. They don't need skinship to show their feelings towards another because the way they look at each other already holds much affection.

Not to mention Tian's character development, he went from selfish to selfless :)

The series ended perfectly, couldn't say anything more
Definitely one of my favorite BL shows to ever air

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One of the best BLs that isn't really a BL

This just has the greatest story.
I loved the setting and that it was not a typical High School or University drama.
The chemistry of the actors is fantastic.
I had this at 10 out of 10 until the very last episode but downgraded it to 9.5 because they sort of botched the ending a bit.
It could have been perfect but they added one more thing and that sort of made it feel a bit rushed. It's still very good though.
I really liked that there was nothing bad or dramatic about being gay, there were no actual role sterotypes like who is top and who is bottom and they made it clear that this a story about two men being in love and their love is respected and even encouraged by everyone around them. This doesn't have any of the typical BL tropes except maybe that bit of rich vs. poor but the main story succeeds without any artificial drama.
This is presented as a BL but this is really more of a modern love story which is much more positive than other BLs. If this is a new direction that BLs are taking then I want more more and more.

oh - one more thing... if you binge this make sure you have lot's of tissues around because this breaks your heart and puts it back together many times.

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Missing it already

I had high expectations for this and I’ve been waiting for forever it felt like since the first trailer was released. I’m glad that it exceeded my expectations, I laughed, cried, boy did I cry and smiled so much with this series. Mix and Earth portrayed their characters amazingly well; So well that they had me feeling super single at times. Their chemistry was phenomenal to the point that I didn't need super intimate scenes to feel their love. From episode 1 I was hooked onto Tian's life story in the city to his life in the Village with not just Phupha but with the kids and all of the villagers. To see how far it went within the 10 episodes, it's a journey that I would love to experience all over again for the first time.

The cinematography was beautifully done, every shot left me in awe...especially with the mountain scenes. Nothing more to say there except great job to the crew for their hard work just as much to all the actors.

The Ost remains my head for days until the next episode so that should tell you something.

Overall I give this masterpiece a 10/10, definitely recommend and would rewatch again. Missing it already as I type this.

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1000 Stars: A shinning star and crown jewel all time masterpiece in BL World

1000 stars is a truly the most beautiful BL ever made. It is an old fashioned love story. A lot of stars in the series:
Soundtrack: the opening song is truly the most BL beautiful song I have heard out of others. The second one would be from Until We Meet Again
Director: the best one I have ever known. I am glad that he would direct “Bad Buddies” He knows how to make the storyline reaches audience emotion and brings the best
Storyline: so beautifully crafted and old fashion. So lovely and full of positive messages
Actors: the best of the best choice I have ever seen. All fit with the characters they played
Chemistry: shooting out through the roof seen through all actors actions and taking out audience emotion
Production: outstanding hard works, worldwide work qualities
Cinematography: well done
International viewer service: shining worldwide super star, extremely helpful by having an official channel in YouTube, timely English subs(tardiness is resolved within a few hours in 24 hours) and no geo blocking/restriction.
Overall: The best of the best BL stories ever made.

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Best GMMTV Series To Date

A Tale of (a) Thousand Stars was the best BL that GMMTV has ever produced. Period. From the quality of production, acting, setting, and story, TOTS will forever remain a stellar series that has pushed the agenda for BLs to come.

Let's Dive In.

I'll keep my review pretty precise since there are plenty others to read from, but this series really brought me to tears, which isn't easy. Tian's character development was some of the best I have ever seen, and it was done with such subtleness and delicateness that was shown through his trials and tribulations with wanting to belong amongst the villagers and his students. For this to be Mix's (Tian) first-ever acting gig, he did a phenomenal job, and I hope to see him in many more series to come. Earth was finally given a decent role! the last I had seen of Earth was when he played a rude swimmer, but in this series, he served as the stern officer, who became gentle when around Tian. Phupa was a delight and I really enjoyed all that he brought. The chemistry between the two was off the charts. When you can present a connection that is so strong to the audience without the need for physical affection or intimacy, then you know it's good. A huge pat on the back for Mix and Earth.

The plot was phenomenal, nothing more is needed to be said. Everything connected in one way or another, and I NEED to see more well-thought-out and detailed plots like this with GMMTV. No toxic ex-girlfriend, no homophobic characters, and no plot holes. Perfection is the only word needed to exclaim this plot.

When looking at the behind-the-scenes, it was obvious how much effort and hard work was put into producing this series, and that right there deserves a ten for itself. I've seen Backoaf's (director) other work, but this one was the best one he has done yet. Seeing at how difficult it was to make this series, I doubt that we'll get a season two, but where we left off was perfect and a really good ending.

Yod was by far my favorite character. He was the comedic relief to this series (as well as Rang), and it was some of the best I had seen. I hope to see Champ in future projects because he was pure bliss to see on screen. Khaotung did a fantabulous job here, and I liked him way more than his other character in Tonhon Chonalatee. I liked how he served as kind of this discreet hint of jealously that Phu had because it just spiced up the plot even more. We don't see too much of Torfun in this, but her actress was fantastic and had such a bubbly and happy personality with the kids. Speaking of the kids, I am so impressed with all of their acting. While it was not the best ever, it was still a lot better than some other child actors I've seen on these series. My favorite would have to be between Ayi and Khao. Tul was the friend that everyone deserved. He was accepting and kind right off the bat, cheering on Tian the whole way. Now that's a best friend.

Overall, this series did a phenomenal job at basically everything. Some of the low rating reviews I've read complained about nit-picky stuff, or the fact that Tian and Phu didn't have enough physical affection. While I agree that Phu did come off as a bit too stern at times (especially towards the end), he did what he thought was the right thing to do, and even though pushing away Tian wasn't the right decision at all, he believed so out of the depth of his heart. With the whole intimacy thing, yes it was nothing big or flamboyant, but it matched perfectly with this couple, and quite frankly if them kissing and shangidy-shang-bang-banging is all that you're worried about and not the actual falling in love part, then the few of you need to do some soul-searching.

This series is definitely going on my top 10, and I highly recommend it, especially to people starting out in BL (this was supposed to be a short review, but I love this series so much, so oh well).

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A turning point for GMM BL series, but not a masterpiece

Most people loved this series, but I don't like it so much. One of the main reasons is the acting. Many people might hate me for saying that, but Earth's performance is far inferior to Mix's. I really cannot feel much sympathy for Phupha. I don't hate him, but I don't like him either. He causes me indifference, which is a problem in a series that depends on its main characters so much.

Although people say 1000 Stars is a mature series, it looks like more a fairy tale. When I think about a mature movie or series, fairy tales don't come to my mind. A mature series explore real issues faced by adults. This series is not like that. The main purpose here is to make the audience emotional to Tian's redemption story. It is true that we are presented to the struggle of the poor villagers, but this is more to develop Tian's character other than denouncing or reflecting on North Thailand's social issues. If they had explored the social problem more seriously, maybe we could consider it a mature series. Poverty here is portrayed in a very romanticized way. It doesn't seem real. The plight of the villagers are not developed and the difficulties faced by Tian in the village are there to emphasize his redemption arc, not to give life to any hidden social dilemma. All the community's suffering is more a background to the development of Tian & Phupha's romance. Even the conflict with the weapon/drug dealers is easily solved. If the solution was only calling the police and leading an armed attack on the bad guys' settlement, why have they never done this before?

But it is ok, a TV show doesn't need to be mature to be good. I just expected more from 1000 Stars. The production is better than other GMM series, but it is still inferior to Nadao, for example. Some scenes are embarrassingly unrealistic, such as the drowning of the school kid in episode 2. Other scenes are simply cringe, such as the episode where the villagers and Tian observe a sexual performance inside a wooden house. This kind of comedic moments were a turn off. I would have preferred if they explored more the psychology of the characters. Phupha, for instance, is an unidimensional character. It is difficult to develop a realistic romance when one of the characters is so plain and shallow.

Finally, I disliked a lot the way they treated Tian's crimes. He organized a street race and gave his car to the killer. According to Thai law, he should be prosecuted. I have the feeling that the plot justifies a very bad underlying moral in Thai society: the rich ones only need to make a "social work/charity" to get away with their crimes, no matter what they did. No one ends up behind bars. If you are curious about what I am saying here, search for Orachorn “Praewa” Thephasadin's case. It happened in 2010 and it is a very good example of how rich young Thai people can do whatever they want and get away with it .

If you pay attention, the main ideia here is: a rich boy causes someone else's death. Through a series of criminal tricks, his family gets the heart of the girl who was indirectly killed by their son and gives the boy the heart of the same girl the boy helped to kill. Then, the boy gets away with all his crimes, devotes part of his life to help the poor villagers, pays for his karma and gets a price: a hot boyfriend.

No justice for Torfun at all.

In sum, it is an interesting GMM series. Much better than the average for a series from this TV channel, but not the masterpiece it could have been.

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This Took A Turn

I could tell this series was going to be an emotional one right away. Let's start off with the good. The series emotionally already started to get to me during the scene where our main character Tian reads Torfun's diary and sees everything she did with her shortened life. His expressions shows how he wants to change and not waste her heart inside of him now. Because he was wasting his life before and wants to do something greater, and fulfill Janes dreams. The musical accompaniment to the show is a much needed added emotional impact. It swells perfectly to the scenes. I also appreciate that they kept a big scar on Tian's chest, because a heart transplant is a big surgery. Maybe it wouldn't necessarily look that (for a lack of a better term) gnarly and painful, but some shows opt to go for "beautiful looking scars or minimal scar tissue" and that's not realistic at all.

I loved the interactions with the kids, kind of like "Oxygen the Series" but better. The kids have distinct personalities and I loved the developments with them. Tian's character too is trying really hard and I appreciate it. We see him in the town too trying to get in with the locals, and help them when they are being taken advantage of financially. He brought back the scale to teach to the kids! So they won't get ripped off like their parents were, omg yes full circle.
After all like the show says; "Where we feel happy, we feel like home".

So initially when Phuapha is introduced I dug him so much. Dude saved a snail, like get outta my face lol. The drunk scene with Tian touching Phupha's face was so wholesome, they had such sweet chemistry. Their relationship was starting to gear up to be one of my faves. Unfortunately that didn't happen, because of some fatal character flaws written into the plot. Which were very uncharacteristic. These were my thoughts once Tian came clean about Torfun and basically everything: "Why are you ruining it show with the village putting literally all the blame on Tian? The rangers didn't want him to tell them about Torfun's death! This is total bs and its making characters unlikable, especially Phupha!" The random question thrown in there of did Tian kill Torfun with his car was stupid too. That would've taken away all likability from his character (luckily it didn't end up that way) and made all of his actions seem not as genuine as before because they are fueled by guilt. This was just all poorly done and it kinda ruined the final half of the storyline.

I also didn't like that they framed it like Phupha is just worried about Tian's future when he tries to convince him to leave. It's Tian's choice whether to stay at the village or not and Phupha basically was not allowing that choice at all! It's really controlling and I keep asking myself why is he leaving again? Like don't tell me what to do Phupha! Sure he ends up finishing teaching school anyway, but still how it was approached was wrong. This is another perfect example of a series that narratively starts off essentially perfect and then flops so bad towards the end with poor character writing that it ruins the relationship for me. Also Tian's mom I understood at the beginning. Her son almost died and she was being overly protective. But then she began to suck at the end. Trying to tell Tian not to become a teacher because its "difficult" which doesn't make sense because so was becoming an engineer? So it was just an excuse, she just thinks its not a reputable enough job. Then when she "agrees" which she shouldn't even have to, she forces the idea of going to a fancy school in America because her friends kids couldn't get in there. Seriously screw you!

Overall, this show is fantastic at the first half and then meh at the end. It's concept is so interesting, so it's a shame parts of it ruined it for me. The last episode was stretched out too long, but once we get the wrap up it's pretty nice. Albeit kind of cliche to end with a peck-kiss on the mountain, I felt some satisfaction from the ending. Though I was highly disappointed that we got no reunion between Tian and the kids or him and Longtae! That would've been great. The after credits ending scene too was a nice addition. Also final side-note, low-key it's mad disrespectful to have a literal ad for a car at the beginning of these episodes knowing full well the story surrounds a character getting struck and hit by a car! XD

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a literal masterpiece

i’m not really sure if i can even put into words of how beautiful this show is because i’m honestly still speechless lol.
i think this is the first time a show has had me hooked from the first episode. it has such a unique storyline and seeing the progression of tian and phu’s relationship was so heartwarming. this show is able to depict the purest forms of love which include patience and the fact that both of tian and phupha’s love languages are physical touch made me tear up. literally everything was perfect.

the chemistry was also fucking insane like the fact that they were able to show how much they care and love eachother without indirectly saying it is so beautiful :( the amount of symbolism too ugh theyre perfect

earthmix did an incredible job, i had no idea this was mix’s first acting role and he was seriously amazing. and earth was literally the perfect person to play phupha :’) i’m really glad he got to shine with a lead role he’s incredible!! i noticed that both earth and mix are always so hard on themselves, but i hope they know that all of their hard work payed off. their 7 years of friendship really reflected on how good they were in the show, and i love how they have such a strong bond in real life too. i’m getting to know both of them more through stuff on twitter and wow i adore them

the cinematography is something i could go on and on about but i loved it so much like there were so many pretty still shots of just the sky in the village and pretty shots of phupha and tian and i think the cinematography is the thing that makes this show even more emotional. i loved the ost’s too

also just seeing how much effort they put into making this show just makes me appreciate atots in a different way

all in all i recommend this show to everyone. we got to see a mature progression of their relationship that not many shows have. i don’t think i’ll get over this show LOL but yeah, i’m very happy :)

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