my top 10 GLs of all time

Do people just hate good art or something? Like, why does Reverse 4 You only have a 7.7 rating? Put some respect on its name because this show is so underrated. Honestly, it’s the best GL of 2024 in my opinion, even though we got robbed with only 8 episodes.

The balance of romance, comedy, and angst? Absolute perfection. And I mean perfect. Four is a masterclass on how to write a "mean" character. She starts off as an asshole, sure, but the way her character grows and deepens makes you fall in love with her. Then there’s Wa, she’s such a fun and likable character that you can’t help but root for her.

The writing is so good and does not get the love it deserves. Their banter? Pure gold. I was kicking my feet and giggling like crazy. I haven’t read the book, so I don’t know how faithful the adaptation is, but the delivery of the lines? Top-notch.

And let’s talk about that confession scene. The build-up was chef’s kiss, and the scene itself? Best one in GL history, hands down. So cute, so romantic. Writers and directors everywhere need to take notes because this is how you do it.

Even with only 8 episodes, the pacing was just right. Every episode felt complete and left you excited for the next one. Unlike other shows, it didn’t leave you feeling like something was missing.

I love everything about this show and will defend it forever. Absolute masterpiece.

The tropes in this show absolutely wrecked me. Pair those with the amazing writing and pacing, and it was something really special. And don’t even get me started on the emotional scenes, they knew exactly how to pull you in and keep you invested. So well done.

I did have a few issues, though. Dr. Fahlada’s questionable actions and how quickly Earn forgave her felt pretty unrealistic and pulled me out of the story a bit. Also, the love scenes were kind of stiff, but honestly, I wasn’t watching for that anyway. I’m here for the drama, the plot, and the feels, and the show definitely delivered on those.

The supporting characters? They delivered. Even the comedy scenes were solid, not too over-the-top, just enough to keep things fun. Way better than shows that make first-time viewers cringe at the humor (looking at you, GAP).

Overall, this was an amazing series that left me wanting more from the two lead actresses. Loved it.

It might not be explicitly GL, but who cares, censorship can suck it.

The storyline, drama, acting, pacing, and tropes all delivered. This show is solid proof that you don’t need NC scenes to make a great GL. If you’re into the sunshine x sunshine protector trope, this is 100% a must-watch.

I’ll admit I’m biased because I love protective FL tropes, but honestly, that doesn’t change the fact that this show sets the bar for what I want in every single GL I watch.

Warning: Some spoliers ahead!

This show had me all up in my feelings. The way they handled the details? Chef’s kiss. Wan’s promises, her 4 a.m. trauma, and her unshakable love for Pleng. Wan’s loyalty was next level. Even when Pleng tried to push her toward Ek, she stayed true. And when she finally married Ek 13 years later, it was still all about Pleng. Wan’s basically the ultimate "lover girl," though, let’s be real, her overprotectiveness is a giant red flag. If controlling characters aren’t your thing, this might not be for you.

The love and kiss scenes? Top-tier. Seriously, no competition. But the men? Absolute headaches. Ek’s behavior throughout the show was so gross, and yet somehow it was always the girls’ fault? Wan had to apologize over and over yet Ek never did? What kind of boofonery.

The last couple of episodes had me side-eyeing hard. Wan attempting to end things in the ocean knowing Pleng’s trauma? That was so out of character. And the indirect slut-shaming? I had a major ick.

Even with those missteps, though, I can’t lie, I love shows that bring the drama, feels, and intimacy, and this one delivered all three all the way to the end. Messy, but worth it.

The only downside to this mini-series? It’s just a mini-series.

The romcom vibes were on point, with comedy bits that were genuinely funny and super entertaining. The acting was amazing, and the pacing worked really well despite the short episode count.

The slow-burn longing between the store owner and the interior designer (I think that’s what you call her in the show?) was so good (all thanks to great acting by the leads). The little bit of angst from the misunderstanding, where the store owner thought she was engaged or married was exquisite. The way the store owner held back because of it? Had me absolutely losing my mind. The tension was off the charts.

This mini-series gave me all the feels, and I’m just over here wishing for more episodes or even a season 2.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the destiny trope Apple My Love gave us. Another unique GL trope in the bag.

From Kris's horrendous self expression skills, the show dives into sweet, simple moments that do exactly what they’re supposed to: make you smile and feel warm.  

Kris’s friends? Absolute gems. They’re supportive, adorable, and might just be the best friend group in any GL ever. And let’s give props to OrmFolk because they are straight-up masters of fluff. The sweet and flirty scenes were so good they carried the show, making the simple plot feel exciting and fun. Kris and Karn’s chemistry was top-tier in every soft moment. Even the love scenes were a pleasant surprise.

Kris’s character development was a slow burn, but it worked. You could see her putting in real effort to grow, not just for herself but for Karn too. And the guys in this show? Surprisingly great. Except for that one jerk (looking at you, Toy), the men were actually helpful and even funny, making the show even more entertaining. They represented healthy, supportive relationships which is refreshing.

At its core, this show isn’t about big, dramatic conflicts (except for the last episode). Instead, it’s about Kris and Karn facing hurdles in their relationship and helping each other grow, both as people and in their careers. The communication and understanding between them are what really stand out.

So, if you’re looking for a show with minimal drama, tons of fluff, cares about its side characters, and a genuinely healthy relationship, this is your go-to. It’s a feel-good, stress-free, easy watch that will leave you smiling.

The downside? Six episodes weren’t enough. Budget restrictions led to rushed pacing of the most interesting and lovable details in this series in the last two episodes. With more time, this could’ve been even better.

Trigger warnings: Hetero sex scenes.