Mou Mou (2024)

Bellissima serie, ma vincolata a un sequel necessario

BL made in Taiwan che ricorda tanto "Stay with me" (drama cinese del 2023), in primis per via del fatto che i protagonisti sono due adolescenti fratellastri (non consanguinei)
Ho seguito con alte aspettative questa serie, molte ripagate, alcune altre un po' disattese. E' sicuramente una serie di qualità, dove i sentimenti si sentono senza bisogno di gesti epici, ma dove anche i momenti più apparentemente banali possono suscitare emozioni intense. Anche sotto questo aspetto mi ha ricordato molto la serie cinese sopracitata, ovvero nell'elegante capacità di emozionare senza dover ricorrere per forza all'esplicito.
Dato però che si tratta di una BL e non di una bromance, avrei comunque apprezzato un'evoluzione verso un rapporto di coppia: la chimica tra i due attori è notevole, riescono a far percepire il forte legame, ma nei fatti e nelle parole si procede ben poco. Dopo i primi due baci nati per gioco/ripicca, scordiamoci qualsiasi altra scena esplicitamente romantica, insomma. Certo, ci sono alcuni abbracci, alcune frasi, alcuni momenti e sguardi che trasmettono davvero molto, ma alla lunga lo spettatore qualcosa di più se lo aspetta. La storia è bella, delicata ma allo stesso tempo intensa. I personaggi protagonisti sanno farsi apprezzare fin da subito - forse tra i due un punticino in più lo strappa Tian, per quanto mi riguarda - a conferma dell'ottima prova di recitazione e di una sceneggiatura che non ha sorvolato sui dettagli.
Di contro, gli episodi sono stati troppo pochi, e molte scene non indispensabili sembravano rubare ulteriore tempo. Ad ogni puntata da una parte mi sembrava che la storia, per il ritmo e l'evoluzione, ne richiedesse ancora di più, mentre di fatto il conto alla rovescia dei 12 episodi totali andava diminuendo. Per di più nel penultimo episodio viene inserito un importante aspetto che riguarda il rapporto di Tian con il padre, elemento che trovo un po' assurdo inserire senza avere poi il tempo di gestirlo e contestualizzarlo come si deve. La serie ormai era agli sgoccioli, e invece di portare a termine le tante questioni in sospeso sembravano aggiungersene di nuove. Di fatto, appunto, la serie si conclude con tanto, ma tanto, in sospeso. L'episodio finale non può definirsi tale, assomiglia più che altro alla scena clou di un film prima dello stacco della pausa pubblicità, semmai. Invece qui la serie finisce proprio così, la scelta di Wang ha un senso ma evolve nel completo non detto (non c'è un confronto tra i due, un vero dialogo...è forse l'episodio in cui la comunicazione è ridotta davvero ai minimi termini, e stiamo parlando dell'epilogo, quindi quasi un controsenso).
Ripeto, serie bellissima - al momento forse la migliore BL del 2024 - ma che posso davvero reputare tale solo se ci sarà un seguito, altrimenti non può che essere considerata incompleta (e, no, mi spiace, ma il "finale aperto" è proprio un'altra cosa). Resto in una fiduciosa attesa del seguito - in questo caso lo considero proprio dovuto - nel quale affrontare tutto ciò che è rimasto in sospeso e vedere soprattutto il legame tra i due tradursi in una coppia concreta.

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Ritmo lento... ma piacevole

Sono sempre scettica quando si tratta di drama che trattano il rapporto tra due fratellastri che si trasforma da odio in amore perché sono sempre pieni zeppi di clichè che alla lunga annoiano.
Sono rimasta, però, piacevolmente sorpresa perché vengono trattate tematiche importanti e profonde nel modo più delicato possibile, senza trascurare fattori importanti o rischiare di esagerare.
L'attenzione ai piccoli gesti, gli sguardi rubati, attori bravissimi che riescono a trasmettere perfettamente le emozioni e trasportarti con loro nel mood perfetto per la scena in corso.
L'evoluzione della storia in sé è molto lenta, ma si tratta comunque di adolescenti che frequentano le scuole superiori e che affrontano tutti i problemi, i sentimenti e le nuove emozioni che quegli anni hanno da offrire: nuove amicizie, problemi familiari, simpatie, antipatie, gelosie, competizione scolastica.

Sicuramente non consigliato per chi ha poca pazienza.

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More Than a Romance

At first, you may think this is just one more old cliche about two brothers who fall in love. But it's much more than that. It's a beautiful coming of age that digs into feelings of being alone, finding out who you are, love and handling hurt. It goes deep into the youth and not just the easy parts. If you are waiting for a usual boys' love story, think again because this one stays with you. It might even make you bawl your eyes out and leave you wanting more when it ends.

Let's start with Jiang Tian, he is such a deep character, he has many sides and holds a lot of sad feelings. He keeps his emotions hid as if they are dark secrets he does not want to disclose to the world because he is afraid. His past and the marks he has, both in and out, have made him into someone who wants to be near others but is also scared of it. That's when Sheng Wang steps in. What I like is that he doesn’t hit Tian’s life hard like a wrecking ball but rather gently nudges him to drop his guard down.

The two main leads are thrown together because of their parents and suddenly they’re supposed to act like brothers. But they definitely don’t feel like siblings at all. Right from the beginning, there’s this tension - it's not bad, but its definitely not the typical sibling vibe. They are trying to understand each other and coexist but you can feel something brewing underneath even if neither of them is ready to admit it yet.

And yes, it’s a slow burn (a thing that many people did not like) but that’s the beauty of it for me. It pulls you in with all the little moments - quick touches, secret glances and the way they look at each other when they think no one is watching. These tiny details make your heart race. The way their hands accidentally brush together (or maybe not so accidentally) and the gentle, lingering looks they share are all done so subtly - it’s just beautiful.

And it's not only about love, it's also about healing. Wang is gently aiding Tian in facing the pain he has held for ages, just by staying by his side and showing him it's fine to open up and let someone in. And Tian is showing Wang that love can be tough. At times, the ones you hold dear are the toughest to reach, but they are worth the hard work.

And the actors are just amazing. It's not often you see roles played with so much truth. You can sense their sadness, their silent wants and the love they share. Each look and each touch is full of meaning. They act with a rawness that makes it all seem real and nothing feels hurried. This makes their bond really stand out. You are not just seeing love, you are watching it grow, bit by bit.

NOTE ABOUT THE ENDING

I thought the ending was okay but it left some things unresolved. There were moments that felt a bit unsatisfying but since they seem to be hinting at a second season (even without official confirmation) it makes sense. They didn’t rush the plot and allowed the story to develop slowly and thoughtfully. If we’re lucky enough to get a season 2 then we’ll likely see their relationship fully blossom which feels like the natural next step after all this gradual buildup.

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RECIPROCITY - Walk in a straight line BUT circle back to each other.

----The key point of the series is ----


"If there is only ONE person in this world who can understand your words, then he is more important than anyone else.” -Jiang Tian

"The population of the planet is now about seven billion. If the average life expectancy of each person is 80 years and they can meet 1,000 people per day, they will meet about 29.2 million people in their lifetime. The probability of two people meeting is 0.00417. while the probability that you happened to like him, he likes you back and you become each other's special 'someone' is only 0.0000173. Everyone has a "very moment" in their life. Your memory will freeze at that moment, becoming a very special moment. It turns into a most important memory of your life. And every time you think of it, you will always have a special feeling inside" - Sheng Wang



A good coming of age BL drama from Taiwan, adapted from the book 'Mou Mou' by Mu Su Li. It's a story of two 17 year old boys coming from different backgrounds, forced to live in close proximity due to their respective parents cohabitation. Slowly these two find a home in each other and open their hearts to a possible connection. The series is not fast paced which is one of its greatest advantages, it paints a nostalgic picture of the bygone days.


The story wouldn't have been as compelling as it turned out to be without the fabulous performance of both the lead actors. Liu Dong Qin who plays the part of a lonely, privileged and affable, Sheng Wang AND Benjamin Tsang who portrays the often stoic, prickly, Ace student of the class, Jiang Tian.

At first glance, the audience perceives, both Jiang Tian and Sheng Wang are opposite in their disposition and would likely clash due to their different personalities. However just in the case of magnets, opposite poles attract each other, the audience comes to realise that underneath their seemingly contrasting outward personalities, both hide deep seated vulnerabilities that they are unwilling to share or reveal to the world. Their close proximity due their parents' cohabitation enables them to peel the protective outward layer and peek into the inner hidden sensitivity of the other.

There are many instances where the viewers get a glimpse of how well these two fit together. With each Thread of shared experience, unrevealed emotion, conversations with concealed subtexts, silent support, All combining together; their relationship transforms into an unbreakable Rope of blazing love. Some of their interactions that make them realise they have found a 'home' in each other and share RECIPROCITY in their feelings are :-

1. Sheng Wang is beaten by some outside thugs on the school campus (arranged by a jealous competitive classmate). Sheng Wang while taking the beating and trying to escape from the goons, thinks that he is all alone and nobody is there to help him. When Jiang Tian finds out about this incident, he works out a way to catch these fellows and punish them. Later Sheng Wang finds out that Jiang Tian was instrumental in their being caught, he talks with Jiang Tian who divulges that if in place of Sheng Wang, he would have been caught alone by the thugs, he too would feel helpless and wish someone would help him. Jiang Tian further states that at that time he wasn't there to help Sheng Wang but he made sure those guys were punished for attacking Sheng Wang and making him feel powerless. (This conversation makes Sheng Wang realise that Jiang Tian would always protect him)

2. Sheng Wang and Jiang Tian both want to live in a dorm (hostel) at one point of time. However later, after the two feel a sense of fellowship, Sheng Wang no longer wants to live in a dorm but wishes to live in his father's house with Jiang Tian. Jiang Ting confesses that even though he also rejected the idea of living in a dorm due to their growing closeness (and the fact Sheng Wang was hurt by Jiang Tian wanting to live in a hostel) he still wished he could stay in a dorm. At that time Sheng Wang thought that Jiang Tian would leave him so he started distancing himself from Jiang Tian. Later Sheng Wang came to know from Old Man Ding that Jiang Tian never had a permanent home, he always kept his belongings packed in a suitcase, ready to leave the place where he was currently residing at a moment's notice because he had an unstable childhood and never got a place to call 'home'. Sheng Wang then offers to stay with Jiang Tian in a dorm, both of them would live in a dorm together so that Jiang Tian would feel safe for at least the duration of their boarding period (as it was fixed as per the fees paid and duration of their studies, the stay in a dorm is not depended upon unforseen changes in his mother's relationship with Sheng Wang in future) and would UNPACK things from his suitcase as he would get a clear timeline as to how long he could live at one place. (This conversation with Sheng Wang made Jiang Tian acknowledge that someone understood his fears)

By gaining insight into the other's frality, both feel protective towards the other. This understanding creates a bond of friendship and acceptance, however it is complicated by their budding romantic feelings for the other. Sheng Wang is more vocal about things but is oblivious to the romantic undercurrent between them or so it SEEMS, Jiang Tian on the other hand is hyper aware of his feelings but he is accustomed to bottle up his emotions never verbally voicing them out.

The hurdles in their way to a blissful life of togetherness are them being of same gender as well as their parents' relationship which makes them 'brothers' in the eyes of the society.

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I would say this series is multi-layered, it deals with many issues that a young adult goes through.....

1. Dealing with past trauma and loss - Searching for that certain some'ONE'.
2.The Bittersweet school life - surviving the competitive world of education where ranks and grades have to be maintained, the jealousy and backstabbing of other ambitious student(s).
3. The budding romance - Growing affection between two boys who care deeply for each other but are afraid of societal judgement as well as afraid of rejection by the other so they keep their feelings within themselves.
4. The stolen glances - Looking at your crush, trying to gauge their reactions based on subtle changes in their facial expressions. Trying to gain the attention of the person you are captivated by. Realising that what started as infatuation has morphed into an indestructible bond of Love that lasts a lifetime.

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I would also like to praise the director of the series, Liu Kuang Hui. The director made the perfect casting choice, Liu Dong Qin and Benjamin Tsang create a believable love story of two young people who are too afraid to voice out their emotions. The Director, through their slow build relationship managed to tell a heartwarming story of two youths' struggle to find a way to stay together. From Jiang Tian's attentive, observant gaze To Sheng Wang's unwillingness to get close to anyone who might desert him. Both fearing abandonment, their non-date Date, having each other's back. The director laid down layers upon layers of shared experiences to cement their commitment.


The soundtracks also manage to solidify the burgeoning feelings.. Although it's difficult to choose a favourite amongst them, my favourite is '17 Run to You', the lyrics were so appropriate for these two lost souls finding a common ground to flourish and live happily together. Other Songs include 'Just lonely', 'Interlude', 'Rainbow Love' and 'Love Proverbs '(The theme song)- All 5 of them have quite soulful melodies and meaningful lyrics that linger in your heart for a long time.


::::Overall:::: Another good BL drama from Taiwan, a little wistful, evoking memories of youth.
This series is replete with pathos for literary enthusiasts. People who are interested in literature should rewatch the series to savour the metaphors, symbols and references from other literary works that the Scriptwriter/ Director has woven into the narrative of the story.

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My 'Very' Moments (Additional Titbits)

1. Episode 3

'up to you' versus 'down to you' - There is a scene where the English Teacher in Jiang Tian and Sheng Wang's school is asking the students to differentiate between the phrases 'up to you' and 'down to you'.

As per the dictionary:
'up to you' means 'It's your decision! You choose!'
Where as 'down to you' means 'to be someone's responsibility or decision:Duty, obligation and responsibility'

In the same episode before the English Teacher brings up the topic of differentiating between the two phrases, Jiang Tian has given money to Sheng Wang for the bottle of water he had purchased earlier for Jiang Tian, Sheng Wang tells Jiang Tian that it's 'up to you' implying that Jiang Tian can choose to remain formal and stiff with Sheng Wang, unaccepting his clumsy attempt at explaining as to Sheng Wang only kissed Jiang Tian in school due to the game of truth and dare, the kiss was just a part of the game.

Later when Jiang Tian offers to be friends with Sheng Wang while talking in his bedroom. Sheng Wang's soliloquy brings the whole topic of difference between the idioms full circle. Sheng Wang muses - "At this moment, I totally forgot what our English Teacher had said. What's the difference between "up to you" and "down to you". Only then did I realise, the moment Jiang Tian said that, my world turned UPSIDE DOWN. My world toppled."

The thin line between "up to you" i.e choice and "down to you" i.e obligation, blurs as everything turns topsy turvy with one heart to heart conversation of Jiang Tian with Sheng Wang.


2. Episode 7 - Moving into a dorm

As per my perception and the conversation that Sheng Wang had with Jiang Tian, Sheng Wang hopes to find some 'stability' for Jiang Tian hence suggests moving into a dorm.

It was stated by Grandfather Ding that Jiang Ting had NO home while growing up, he was constantly on a move, sometimes living with his father, mother, grandmother or old man Ding... probably he may have spent an occasional night at some acquaintance's home. Now that his mother has moved into Sheng Wang's father's home, logically he might get a stable home but due to his past experiences, psychologically he is still unable to relax and unpack. He may fear things going south between his mother and Sheng Wang's father someday or displeasing his stepfather or ... or ..or...and he may have to 'move' again so he is keeping himself ready for that possibility.

As per Sheng Wang, living in a dorm Jiang Tian may unwind a little because even though they cannot live in a dorm forever, it gives a 'specified duration' wherein the students can live as per the fees they have paid for the term. Hence Jiang Tian can mentally feel some stability for that time period.

So it doesn't matter that there are two other people sharing a dorm room with them because at the current juncture of the story they are looking for 'stability' rather than 'privacy'. Therefore both are rejoicing at having achieved that goal.

Maybe later they may find sharing the accommodation with other two students a little restrictive but that's for the future..In the present, they can heave a sigh of relief on behalf of Jiang Tian.


3 . Episode 8

The difference between the conversation that Sheng Wang has with his father and Jiang Tian has with his mother regarding shifting from Sheng Wang's father's house to a Dorm.

Sheng Wang is quite vocal and doesn't mince words, he is eloquent and has a way with words. His father often considers him immature and doesn't really listen to what he is saying. Sheng Wang very clearly stated what he wanted and put his feelings into words to express what he wanted. He very generously accepted his father's need for a companionship but never faltered from his point of needing to stay in a dorm.

Jiang Tian and his mother's relationship is quite stilted due her guilt of leaving her son to fend for himself while she was busy earning money to support her family. Both stay quite, sitting on a sofa not knowing how to approach the topic, until they break the ice. Jiang Tian comforts his mother by saying that this time he is NOT alone when he moves to a new place, as he has a companion who would accompany him and ensure his happiness. He also expresses happiness that his mother will also not be alone as she has also found a loving companion.

What made me happy to see is that both boys want their respective parents to lead a happy life but they are not willing to change their decision. Their approach of discussing things with their own parent differs but both manage to convey their choice distinctly. They stay firm and polite but don't buckle under the pressure of parental guilt, obligation or coaxing.

4. Episode 9
Once again a topic explained in the beginning of the episode by a school teacher, forms a heartfelt moment...the series did the same in episode 3.

Now again in this episode. The difference between a period (.) and ellipsis (.....)

i.Period (.) means end of conversation, there is nothing left to say anymore.
ii. Ellipsis (.....) means something is left intentionally unsaid, the conversation is at a pause and there are more things that are unsaid, to be said.

This lesson, is quite meaningful as the relationship between Jiang Tian and Sheng Wang is at the ellipsis stage.....

There are so many things bubbling at the surface between these two protagonists waiting to burst out.

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*Through two incidents, we witness different dynamics of the relationship between Sheng Wang and Jiang Tian.*

When Sheng Wang cajoles, coaxes and calls him "ge" all the while pouting, to convince Jiang Tian to wear the sports T-shirt with embarrassing letters printed on, Jiang Tian surrenders, he agrees to put on the T-shirt to make Sheng Wang happy. Sheng Wang sports a smug smile because, he knows he would always get his way with Jiang Tian by pleading.
(Sheng Wang 1 : Jiang Tian 0)

Second incident, when Sheng Wang hurts his foot after the last round of Long Jump, Jiang Tian notices his wince when Jiang Tian is tying their legs together for a three legged race. Jiang Tian immediately calls a halt and asks permission from the teachers to take Sheng Wang to a health centre. Jiang Tian instructs Sheng Wang to get on his back so he could carry Sheng Wang piggyback style. With so many people watching, Sheng Wang is embarrassed to get on Jiang Tian's back, he squirms and tries to make excuses. Jiang Tian doesn't heed and repeatedly asks Sheng Wang to "get on" his back in a protective authoritative manner till Sheng Wang climbs onto his back so that Jiang Tian can carry him to the clinic.
(Jiang Tian 1 : Sheng Wang 0)

Both these incidents highlight their relationship dynamics, Jiang Tian will fold and give in to Sheng Wang's persuasions in all instances except when it comes to Sheng Wang's well being, then Jiang Tian wouldn't be swayed by anything. An interesting fact is that Each of them is aware of their strengths and weaknesses where the other is concerned.

(I have run out is space here so My 'very' moments for episode 11 and some musing on episode 12 specifically the Ending are added as comments to this review, If you are interested to read more please look up the comments)

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I'M INVESTED

Review for the first two episodes:

This series has totally hooked me with just the first two episodes! The chemistry between the lead characters is fantastic, and the mix of heartfelt moments with genuine romance is really well done. The characters feel real and their relationship is evolving in an engaging way. Each episode leaves me eager for more. If the rest of the series is as captivating as these first two episodes, it’s definitely going to be a standout show. I’m excited to see what happens next!

Review for the 3rd and 4th episodes:

Chefs kiss! This show is a must-watch! The two main leads deliver outstanding performances, and their chemistry is undeniable. The story really picks up in episodes 3 and 4, and it's no surprise the ratings jumped from 7.9 to 8.2. If you're looking for a series that will keep you hooked, this is it!

Review for the 5th to 12th episodes:

I have nothing more to say about this series; all I can say is that it is indeed a masterpiece.

Every episode had me hooked, and the emotional depth and beautiful cinematography only added to the experience. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a well-crafted drama. It leaves you wanting more, and I’m definitely hoping for a Season 2 to explore the story further!

Fingers crossed for a Season 2!

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Everyone should pay close attention to this drama......why only 9 stars though???

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!CAUTION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Please note that if you start watching this drama you are going to get ADDICTED to this series no matter what....

If you’re expecting this drama to be just another "Addicted" or "Stay With Me," you’re in for a surprise. While it might share some similarities with "Addicted," it stands out with its unique approach. Trust me, just the first two episodes will show you why this series is different.

The STORY line might seem predictable—clearly we all know how the leads end up together and what issues they will face with their family and how they overcome those challenges..........Yet, despite knowing all these things, I found myself eagerly anticipating every twist and turn after all this while.

The production quality and ACTING are commendable, though I find Sheng Wang's portrayal occasionally a bit too childish which is contradicting his character in the novel(even though I read only 21 chapters of the novel), which might be a hit or miss for some. However, I firmly believe that this drama lives up to the high standards that we all have for Taiwanese dramas. So a big kudos to the Team and the actors.

The reason I gave this only a 9 because, yeah one thing is I wanted Sheng Wang's character not to be too childish.......so there goes the 0.5 and another 0.5 is I felt that the chemistry between the leads is a bit less intense compared to the novel. I am not telling that the leads do not have chemistry but in few scenes I feel that the tension and the emotion is missing.

I’m confident that this drama will defy any initial impressions you might have. And one thing that people are mostly concerned about is the slow burn......at few instances I also felt the same but yeah I hope this concern will not be a concern after the release of season 2 hahaha.

PS: NOT THE END............just the Beginning.......eagerly anticipate for a season 2

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A small (great) literary gem brought to the screen in a masterful way

Complex characters, controversial themes, personal stories, family relationships, LGBT+ empowerment, and romance are the identifying nuances of Taiwanese filmmaker Liu Kuang Hui. The protagonists of his works reflect their inner world, as shown in 'Your Name Engraved Herein', in which fear and sin already appeared burning the insides of the protagonists because of a forbidden love, the first love, the love relationship /hate, two young people united by friendship as if they were brothers, the differences of social classes...
In the work of someone who expressed that this film takes a lot of his own life, stating that A-Han's narrative arc is based approximately 80% on his own experiences, since originally, it was not his intention to make a gay film, but a personal film about his first love, and his first love is the story of a boy who likes another boy, features typical of the Taiwanese film and television director appear.
This is confirmed in his next work, the short film 'Best Sisters Forever', from 2021, and has continued to this day in some other films, such as 'The Story of the Stone' (2018), and the series 'Hello Again! ' (2019).
Liu Kuang Hui is a very versatile director and screenwriter, as he does not limit himself to creating his own literary and technical texts to later be brought to the screen, nor to adapting those titles of novels that he admires and that have served as inspiration, but rather who cites them in his films, reviews and updates them, nourishes them with other cultural elements that, ultimately, give personality to his filmography. This allows his work to be easily recognizable due to its numerous intertextual references.
The latest piece of his authorship as director and screenwriter so far, 'The On1y One', is a sentimental initiation series that tells the story of queer love between two teenagers who begin to develop emotionally.
This long-awaited LGBT+ drama takes place in the present day, and tells the story of Sheng Wang, a dreamy, rich and popular young man, whose world changes when, after transferring to a new high school due to his father's job, he meets Jiang Tian, a tall, intelligent and lonely student who lives with his mother.
As he settles into his luxurious new home, Sheng Wang is determined to stay focused on his desire to meet the person who, according to his mathematical calculations, would be one of the 0.0000173 inhabitants of planet Earth with whom he would meet. It would have to coincide first that they know each other, and then that he gets to like her the way he would like too.
The two begin a rivalry that becomes even more complicated when Jian Tian's mother enters into a romantic relationship with Sheng Wang's father, and the four of them are suddenly forced to live under the same roof. Since they are not blood relatives, nor do they consider themselves true stepbrothers since their parents are not legally married, they must face life together, the growing respect, the secret admiration of one for the other, which becomes a forbidden attraction.
While Sheng Wang must face his new life, with all the significant changes that this entails, he must not only get used to suddenly living with two strangers, but also to the cold welcome that his classmate sees in him a tough competition.
The confrontation is felt from the first minutes in which Sheng Wang sets foot in his new institute. Luckily, he has new friends with whom he can vent tensions, among whom Gao Tianyang (Andy Chen) stands out.
At first, Sheng Wang and Jiang Tian couldn't be less alike. Jiang Tian is a intelligent who likes to be alone. Sheng Wang is also intelligent and popular who everyone likes, who is invited to games and parties and who seems to have everything going for him. But by chance of sitting next to each other in the classroom, the two form an immediate bond, and then the closeness carries over to the home they will share as part of an unexpected family.
In addition to the characters and the plot, which deals with the stories of LGBT+ teenagers with openness and sensitivity, the pacing of the series is also perfect. With twelve episodes of about 45 minutes, it practically flies by. Every character's story, every relationship is perfectly arced throughout the series, while leaving plenty of room for character growth and exploration and romance. That's a rarity in any medium, and it's staggeringly impressive that the creators made it work.
I have no doubt that the series, as an artistic phenomenon, also managed to confirm and bring out a pool of stars, especially in the new actors who play the study companions of the two protagonists.
The series is told from Sheng Wang's point of view, but in the final four or five minutes, before the credits roll, we will have Jiang Tian's vision, and this helps fill in the gaps in the story.
Chinese actor Liu Dong Qin ('Psych-Hunter', 2020; 'To Be with You', 2021) plays Sheng Wang, whose main objective is to make his way in life based on intelligence and studies. His rich origin and the constant change of school and place of residence have determined his fighting spirit and earned the friendship of everyone around him.
It is about a teenager whose mother dies when he was a child, and whose life has developed with a certain animosity towards his father, much more so now that he discovers that he has a stepmother and a stepbrother, just the boy who sits next to him at school and with whom he doesn't get along at all.
The Chinese-born Taiwanese actor Benjamin Tsang plays Jiang Tian, ​​who has grown up estranged from his father after his parents' divorce, and from whom he only receives monetary support from time to time, money that he immediately gives to his mother, because both have lived in financial difficulties.
Also with an extensive filmography and experience in films with LGBT+ themes, the 28-year-old actor has starred in the short films 'Boxing' and 'A Cohabitation', both from 2019. In the first he plays Wei, a boxer who falls in love of Rong, his training partner, and in the ring he will have the ideal setting to declare his love, while in the second he puts a face to one of the members of a gay couple who is forced to separate because one of them has HIV.
Its beauty immediately attracts attention. He is a very physical actor. It looks robust and mysterious. In the interaction scenes with the actor who plays Sheng Wang, he is able to transform into a fantasy creature. He is also able to bring childlike innocence to Jiang Tian's interpersonal relationships.
As the two teenagers discover and explore their desires, the physical aspect of the story is striking, in which each scene represents a moment of action during which the characters are in a constant state of alert, and react without understanding what is happening to them happening, without knowing how to respond and, above all, how to put it into words. For the actors, it is a real challenge to work with a director who is so ambitious in the stories he tells, since Liu Kuang Hui does not want Sheng Wang and Jiang Tian to express their emotions like adults.
In my opinion, the director wants to make a very physical series, and capture that moment when desire and attraction rise from the intestine to the heart, and barely touch consciousness. In some ways, they are both lonely guys. They are not conceived as part of a group. Although we see, quite early on, that Sheng Wang integrates easily with the rest of his companions, we get the feeling that he lives in a kind of solitude that is not tinged with melancholy. He, like Jiang Tian, ​​keeps a bit to himself.
On the other hand, the animosity that dwells within them is, at least initially, the only language they share. They don't know where it comes from, or at least they don't know how to put it into words. Perhaps it is due to their similar intellectual abilities, but above all to their different environments. Jiang Tian has to trudge through the streets from his humble abode for a long time to get to school, while Sheng Wang makes a similar journey in a luxurious car driven by someone else. The gap between everyday life that leads distance from each other and separates them.
Shen Wang shows himself, creates poetic images in his mind; Jiang Tian is more in tune with the nature around him. They feel incompatible. When their parents announce to the two children that they will live under the same roof, it is obvious that neither of them wants to make peace. They want to remain at enmity, without realizing where they are going. They behave like explorers, adventurers.
However, if their first disputes seem to arise without control, then, little by little, we have the feeling that it has almost become a kind of chivalric rite. Here, the director once again shows his mastery of cinematographic language: he does not want the scenes to be repetitive. Each one had to erupt in a different way, and out of nowhere. But they are inevitably called by animosity and in their constant duel they reach the zenith when, indifferently, one steals a kiss from the other on two occasions, once as part of a game, the other as revenge.
These are the first steps. They are both a sensual moment. Especially the second one, as it is something spontaneous. Time stops. And so, Sheng Wang immerses himself, once again, in his poetic images full of love. For Jiang Tian, ​​something clicks at that moment. He feels an erotic discharge, links this moment with other recent memories, and finally everything begins to make sense.
The rivalry between them increases, until it becomes a story in itself. The more it grows, the more it blossoms, and the dramaturgy of the relationships between Jiang Tian and Sheng Wang evolves and becomes more sophisticated. It never stagnates, it is a dialogue. Little by little they are allowed to understand what is bothering them and what is changing.
The wish for Sheng Wang comes later. It is more indeterminate. He has to overcome his fear of rivalry and physical contact with Jiang Tian. Once he senses Jiang Tian's attraction towards him, he needs to keep his distance. He resists Jiang Tian's wish.
That's where the construction of the series becomes so unique: we're really in the frame of a drama about growing up, not a chronicle of summer heartbreak, nor, once again, anticipating what's going to happen. The reactions and evolution of the characters are as unexpected as the twists and turns: school conflicts, living in the same house, sharing the same spaces, the beginning of a love relationship... Everything remains a mystery. In the script and staging there are live characters who are surprising and at the same time surprised.
Liu Dong Qin and Benjamin Tsang, first and foremost, are perfect in the roles. Their chemistry is off the charts. Each line of dialogue is infused with feeling, from deep conversations about life and love to simple exchanges of the seemingly most insignificant word, a characteristic riff that resonates and takes on different meanings throughout the audiovisual. Without this key duo, 'The On1y One' wouldn't work. Fortunately, it does, and in the best tradition of romantic drama, you will find yourself rooting for them to figure out their feelings and come together in an indestructible bond from the beginning, much stronger than being step-siblings without any blood connection.
The fact that they are two proven actors, with a strong command of acting, works to the benefit of the series, with the nervous and uncomfortable energy of Benjamin Tsang merging perfectly with the confidence and security of Liu Dong Qin, who will not hesitate to kiss him without warning as part of a game of Truth and Dare with their fellow students.
At least, before the two start switching roles, for reasons too spoiler-filled to mention here. Beyond the two main characters, the world in which the two protagonists operate is populated by a group of adorable characters.
The romance and relationship between the two teenagers is one of the three axes that structure and are transversal to the entire story set in the present somewhere in Taiwan, but which could very well be any corner of the world. The other two are the relationship between Sheng Wang's father and Jiang Tian's mother, who by joining in a cohabitation union, that is, without a marriage bond, cause their children, two adversaries at school, to become close people and will cause a romance to be established between them that goes from the platonic to the physical, but with a certain degree of containment, given the circumstances of seeing each other as if they were two stepbrothers, and finally, school, friends outside the enclosure student, and classmates and teachers.
Led by Liu Kuang Hui in writing, Chinese screenwriters Ma Jing, Guo Guang Yun and Deng Yao Yu, who have jointly written the script for the series 'The Untamed Special Edition' and 'The Untamed', adapt the story of the little (great) gem of teenage romance, which is the novel "Mou Mou", by Mu Su Li, to tell us a classic love story in which two lonely souls write a sweet but sad love story, while they travel together through the paths that lead them to develop a precious relationship.
The fact that both belong to apparently different worlds does not prevent them from creating a transformative connection. The premise plays with the codes of the most classic teenage drama, but includes a forbidden love plot with the trope of a romantic relationship between two people who in the eyes of many can be considered stepbrothers, turned lovers, which has aroused the interest of a large part of the public. In this sense, the television story would run in the direction of other teenage productions of recent years, such as the Chinese and Thai versions of 'Addicted Heroin' and 'Stay With Me: The Series'.
It is a work that fascinates for its very cinematic production values, photography, soundtrack, editing, sound design, opening (header), and interpretation of the two protagonists.
On the other hand, it is important to point out the role of music as a narrative element that influences dramatic development. The music accentuates and intensifies the characters' feelings and has its climax when the songs by music producer James Chang and the vocal arrangements by Shivia Lee and Steven Lai are heard.
Songs are very important in all of Liu Kuang Hui's work, and this one fits perfectly. The main theme songs of the series are "Love Proverbs" / Mou Mou, "Just Lonely", voiced by Ricky Hsiao, "Rainbow Love / Give Mou Mou", performed by Princess Ai, "Interlude" (TRASH) and "17 Run to You", a song sung by Nasi Lee, among others.
In summary, part of what makes the series produced by Dragonfire International Co. Limited, Beijing Jinying Technology Co. Ltd. and Ilustrato Picture Ltd., work so well is, without a doubt, the trustworthiness and kindness of the source material, which is a huge hit with over a billion views. The series manages to adapt not only the story of Mu Su Li's novel, but also its spirit. Having these characters established and already loved by fans of the literary work gives it a step above the competition. And while we have seen many popular original works crash and burn when translated to television, this is not the case with 'The On1y One', as the different technical aspects, the work of the director, the scriptwriters and the acting cast also triumph unquestionably.

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coming of age/slow burn

Overall: this could have been a 10/10 except for a fatal flaw. It is adapted from the book "Mou Mou" by Mu Su Li; however, I reviewed the series based on its own merits. 12 episodes about 45 minutes each, 2 episodes per week. There is an extra scene after the initial end credits in some episodes. Aired on GagaOOLala https://www.gagaoolala.com/en/videos/4661/the-on1y-one-2024-e01 ; Viki https://www.viki.com/tv/40680c-the-on1y-one ; iQIYI https://www.iq.com/album/the-on1y-one-2024-2ge4shuunbp?lang=en_us ; WeTV https://wetv.vip/en/album/3om6e76t014bzqy and Netflix https://www.netflix.com/mo-en/title/81907297

Content Warnings: non con kiss, fight, past child abuse, past death, kidnapping, threatened violence

What I Liked
- the lead characters and their dynamic (the tension, chemistry, micro expressions)
- sweet/protect moments
- many familiar faces (Zach Lu from HIStory 2: Crossing The Line (teacher), JN Yu from Be Loved In House I Do (quirky friend), Jed Chung from Light (classmate), Stan Huang from VIP Only (PE teacher)
- family interactions felt realistic
- symbolism with the closet
- color symbolism orange and blue
- multiple platform international release

Room For Improvement
- what stopped me from giving this a 9.5 or 10/10 was the fact that the director/writer made a very risky bet on a season 2, in order to do this they made the story drag with side plots/characters I didn't care about (like the female teacher and that random kidnapping???) and ended it in an unsatisfactory way, there has only be 1 Taiwanese series to get a season 2 (We Best Love), because it was a China/Taiwan collaboration a sequel feels even less likely given censorship and how even censored BL has been mostly shelved for the past few years
- ep 1 voice over with incorrect statistics (we don't meet 1,000 different people every day)
- actors who viewers have seen play adult characters played high school characters
- too many flashbacks
- the NSFW scene was odd compared to an earlier dead fish lip press
- the animated intro didn't match the overall vibe

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Youthful shenanigans with slow burn gallore on the side!

This was all about youth, love and identity through the lives of two boys - Sheng Wang and Jiang Tian. The story begins with their parent's unexpected marriage and them sharing a roof but it goes beyond that and the typical BL tropes. As the drama progresses, it deals with loneliness, self-discovery and healing from past traumas.

What stands out for me is the pacing. The slow-burn romance allowed us to savour each shared moment between them - be it a glance or a subtle accidental touch. Every interaction between them felt special and gradually deepened their connection. The intimacy between them was chef's kiss. It was captured beautifully along with the confusion of young love. All the emotions were felt but none was spoken.

The character development of both leads was a treat to watch. Sheng Wang was portrayed as friendly in contrast with the stoic and often guarded Jiang Tian. As the polar opposite duo began to interact, the façade melted revealing their vulnerabilities and a new version of themselves. Their understanding of each other formed the emotional core that maintained a perfect balance between friendship and then the budding romance.

A special mention of literary element and small stories at the start of the episodes. The subtle references and metaphors for every episode and then the story revolving and unfolding around them was interesting and engaging to watch.

Though the ending feels incomplete and bittersweet but considering there would be a season 2, it gives a fitting closure. It is symbolic of Wang's realisation that they are just not brothers and friends. I am looking forward to season 2!
Overall, recommended if slow burn, character-driven romance is your thing.

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SUCH....A....SL...OW...BU...RN....

I can't believe after ALL THAT STUDYING, Sheng Wang decided to fail his exams on purpose cuz he didn't wanna fantasize about his brother's throat while he drunk water in class. Son of Adam, was that the best solution your horny arse could come up with? Child!! People in love are so... #facepalm. Also, that ending. I don't know whether to cry, cuss or accept it. Really, a hopeful ending?? Hopeful endings sucks. I didn't come here for hope, this ain't a goddamn wishing well! Give me my happy ending :(((( Oh, the wait for season 2 is gonna hurt so bad.

The slow burn in this drama hurts sooo good. But, any slower and we'd have gone back in time. You know, the time when we hit each other in the head with giant sticks and go 'awooga, awooga, I love you marry me, I have a goat.' Somehow, I think this is exactly how it's gonna happen when one of these two decides to confess. ^^

Again, I can't believe they hit us with the 'I know my feelings, but I can't act on them because he's my elder brother.' Where? Show me the birth certificate. Your baby photos?? And then SW kept using 'Brother' every chance he got. The way I was side-eyeing him. Mfker did yous lose a brother? If you don't shut your face and go sit down.

That finale! If I could go into my screen and hit Sheng Wang with a rubber chicken I would. Cuz dude, what in the stupid arse solution was that? Sure, I went 'Oh, dear God we've lost a brother,' when he realised his feelings and turned into a horny delulu, who fantasies with bi-sexual lightning, I knew he was about to do something stupid. I thought him changing his statues to 'brother' was the something stupid, but intentionally messing with your important exams?? CHILD? After all that studying to stay in class A?? Arggggggg feelings + decisions = stupid.

And I'm out here, in tears, sad at seeing Jiang Tian break down and punch a wall, and they are making room for those two teachers and I'm like... my friend my friend will you move aside, I don't care about you, fix your own goddamn problems in season two. Damn, that hopeful ending hurts soo good. I liked what we got, but if we don't get a season two, then what was the point? If felt like the story was just about to pick up, and then bam, it's over. My mood is ruin for the rest of the year until January 16th. No one better try talking to me over my pudding this christmas, imma feel the room with my bitterness.

Oh and, the music in this show was sooooo gooood. I loved the soundtrack!

Anyway, listen, the reason I chose to watch this drama wasn't because of the plot or even the actors. It was because of Jiang Tian's short haircut. I was so happy when I saw it. Why? Cuz, I am tired of that hairstyle trend some male actors and singers are doing these days. You know, the one where they cut the front short and leave a long thin part falling down their neck like a curtain? What the eff is up with that haircut? I thought we left the mullet with the bygone cowboys?

Cuz, why is it back? Why our fav stars now out there looking like long neck ponies? You’d see a fine arse fella but then bang, the back of his neck looks like a giraffe having a bad hair day. Who even came up with this? And now people out there given it a corny arse name like the turtle or some sh!t. What turtle you known out there looking like sugarcane with a bad wig? huh? Look, I don’t even hate the hairstyle, it looks good on a few, I just… it’s so ugly, can’t they see it’s not nice? who hyped that shit up, cuz some of y’all must have been out there going ‘aww oppa, nice hair’ no, no, sit yo arse down! I need y'all to stop hyping it, so it can go in the corner and slowly die. Burn it with gasoline and matches.

Why is that the haircut every male wants? They don’t own mirrors? What I miss? is it me? am I a hater of the hairstyle, or like does it honestly super fucking sucks like I think? Some of these stars need a new hairstyle. Matter of fact, get the love sick haircut, nice fade, bald hair, your neck not looking like a cucumber in a cheap wig. Just why? they protecting their necks from something we don't know about? are the horses about to riot? cuz like, there's no way... wait… what was I talking about?

Right. Metro cards. Was it just me, or finding out Sheng Wang kept the metro card Jiang Tian came him as his lucky charm was super darn cute? You know, like rainbows, unicorns, cotton candy and whatnot.

Anyway, the plot of this drama isn't new. Heck it's a reused trope that's been done to hell, but it's how it was executed, that made it special. It was amazingly done, with actors that had good chemistry and knew how to act, making it one of the best dramas this year. The support characters were also good, that friend group was as funny and chaotic as they needed to be, which added to the overall enjoyment. And as for the tension, damn, those two! The little lingering of romance we got was done so well, although there was barely any touching involve, the leads really had chemistry that was chemistrying. I am on my knees hoping for a second season.

I loved that this series didn’t rush into the romance part or even put the most focus on it. Instead they gave us BACKSTORY!! Nowadays most shows have characters that are 1 dimensional, with little to no depth and super basic. But this series had depth, it made us learn about the characters, understood where they are coming from and where they’d been. We got to stay with them and withins their growth, which made me enjoy watching it. So, yeah, although the plot wasn't new, it was very well done executed with a talent team who understood the script. So kudos.

TEN THINGS I LIKED ABOUT YOU:
1. Jiang Tian learning to open up, and letting people into his space. (When he finally unpacked his suitcase, I had tears, and clapped for him.)
2. Sheng Wang learning to share his space. He went from not wanting anything to do with JT and his mother, to accepting them, and hugging and telling her they were family… #tears. He even gave up his comfort zone, to move to the dorms with JT.
3. The slow burn. Yes, I complained about it, but, I actually really love how we get to see how every little time and things they do together adds up to their moments, and slowly built up their affection for each other. Still so frustrating though! This is what happens when a slow burn is down well, it drives you insane and makes you crave for more.
4. Every back-hug/back carry— I lived for them, my fav was when Sheng Wang just jumped onto JT's back and made him carry him upstairs… I was grinning like an idiot.
5. When Sheng Wang saw those two teachers kiss. SKKSKSsksk his reaction sent me!!
6. Sheng Wang realising/confronting his feelings. His awaken. It was so well done, how remembered all the little moments between them, his little fantasy, and then deciding not to kiss JT. I way I was holding my breath that whole scene then...crickets. After waiting so long for this scene of him looking like he wanna kith, all we got was that?? Im under your bed writer/director!(SD: Jiang Tian being awake that whole time!! Damn, would homeboy have let his brother kith him and pretended to be sleeping? I see you homie! ^^)
7. Jiang Tian's very moments: LMFAO, finding out he orchestrated the whole kissing and truth or dare thing in ep1 was gold. Does this means he fell first, but Sheng Wang fell harder?
8. Every time JT rushed to SW’s aid, either to help or just stand there and support him, made me smile. And of course Sheng Wang was also there for him. Such supportive 'brothers'. I swear this year has not been a good one for single people, all these in love people been real annoying in their loveness-ness.
9. Gao TianYang and Pepper's friendship. The friend group in general.
10. When JT said, they should try 'getting closer' a chance.

Of course, everything wasn't sunshine. The story was very slow to progress, seemed the most we got was them doing something school related. There was little to no romance at all, and except for the two male teachers, there wasn't even any side stories of interest. I personally wanted to see how they deal with Qi JiaHao, and how his character progressed, he was annoying as hell, but quiet interesting with how his character was slowing going over to the edge because of the education system. Since they spent so much of the story in school, I wanted to see how that effected the characters. Perhaps if we get a second season.

Now, let's talk about that one unholy flashback reveal of what JT’s dad did with that man and the cigarette. I am still picking my mouth off the floor. Damn, with the door unlocked? on the bed you share with your wife? with your family pictures there too? Mfkers are so bold these days! Such audacity! The emotional trauma that left on that child. I heard from book readers that it left so much scars on JT and prolong their getting together, cuz he needed to stop hating, accept, then heal. So, now am wondering...

Anyway, I thought nothing was gonna top seeing all those butts on my screen when they lost the games. Well, there was that morning and the woods thing, but we don't talk about that, I'd laugh and been shocked enough over it. The production team is sure not shy, huh? Hopefully, y’all watching and hyping this drama. That director needs to give us a second season… you know… for the thing with the character… growth. yeah, we need s2 for character growth! yep. XD.

So like, we all thought those two teachers, who also owns that restaurant were dating right? The whole time I thought they were together, and getting jealous of each other because of the female teacher. Turns out they are not together and they both think the other wants the female teacher? Not gonna lie, was not that interested/invested in their story, but like how they were they for the kids. Though I wondered if they made any profit with how much free food they gave those hungry students.

Speaking of the female teacher. She was very extra, and not in a good way, she needed to be less. Though, I liked how she was just in her own world, buying mugs for a dude who's flipping barbecues with another dude. But like, after the thugs who kidnapped her were chased away, why weren’t there police around the school and stuff? They were so chill, she literally just went on with her day?? HMMMMM Janet, children goes here? Report it, including that psycho Qi JiaHao. This was not his first crime. Sure there was some off-hand comment about reporting it or something but then nothing. Okay? This is a serious matter, and all three adults involved sort of just---chilled. HUH?

Also, that one student, Qi JiaHao was such an annoying loser. This was my initial thought, but then it got me wondering. do people actually have to study that much/excessively in school, in some countries as it was here? Sure we all lived in the library and survived on coffee during exams and project week, but like damn, this whole education system seems so serious and stressful. If everything is as bad as shown here, then I do understand why Qi JiaHao is slowly losing his mind.

Side note: Taiwanese bls have been doing their thing this year. First with unknown, and now this. Here's to hoping we get more great shows from them.

All in all, this show was a good one. I truly enjoyed watching it, and would recommend it to all bl lovers, you're gonna enjoy this one. I am hoping for a second season, and looking forward to seeing more of work with the main leads, they were amazing in this. It's going straight to my list of fav dramas this year.

PLZ, PLZ, a season two!! We need it. I need it!!

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