During the recent past few years, BL has seemed to take the world by storm. For those who are unfamiliar with the term BL, it means Boy Love. Thailand has been one of the leading producers of some world-famous BL dramas. These dramas have carved a niche for themselves by acquiring a whole separate fan base. What makes them unique is that these dramas are the representation of queer people who are still struggling in today’s generation. It is shown in a fairy tale-sequel way, still showcasing the discrimination and challenges faced by the protagonist.
1. 2gether: The Series
The plot is a fan favourite of fake dating tropes. The story is about an extremely good-looking cheerleader and student, Tine, and a popular male, Sarawat, who is also a leader in the music and soccer team. When Tine is being pursued by Green, he begs Sarawat to pretend to date so that Green will leave him. What started as a fake dating trope ended up becoming something more than they imagined. This is a good show for anyone who is looking to start watching BL dramas.
2. Bad Buddy
Bad Buddy is a story about two university students who are quite competitive. The story is a classic enemy-to-lovers trope. The main characters are neighbours whose families have been having a feud for decades. Even their friends from the architecture and engineering departments are seen to be in an unresolvable conflict. Despite the hatred going on, they grow closer. It is for sure a masterpiece from the start itself. The epic plot, captivating performance, and romance all end up working in perfect harmony.
3. Lovely Writer
Gene is a shy writer who rises to fame when his romance novel starts to get adapted into a popular series. He is often seen being flustered by the media's attention, especially when Nubsib, a handsome actor who is playing a role in his novel series, starts taking interest in him. When they end up becoming roommates, sparks start to fly. This is a very well-written story that is packed with hyper-energy, non-stop adrenaline, and a vibrant sense of humour.
4. KinnPorsche: The Series
If you love a mafia story, this show is a must-watch, where the bodyguard and boss end up falling in love. The second son of a Mafia lord, Kinn, is trying to flee an enemy when he meets an ambitious young bartender, Porsche, who helps him defend himself from his attackers, but at a price. Impressed by Porsche's skills, he encourages his father to enlist him as one of his bodyguards. When their affections start to take an unexpected turn things start to get more interesting.
5. Theory Of Love
This drama showcases a very cliche and classic friends-to-lovers saga. The story is about Third, who with his best friend Khai, Two, and Bone, is a member of the Savage Team, and a filmology major. He however has a secret that he has been in love with Khai for years. He keeps it hidden and silently keeps on supporting him as Khai is straight and a player. Other than that Khai also has a no-dating-friends policy. This show is a very mirrored representation of queer love stories.
6. CutiePie
It is a romance comedy drama that focuses on the story of Kuea and Lian who since they were small were set up in an arranged marriage by their parents. One of them doesn’t want to stay in the arrangement while the other tries to win him over. Even though it has a simple plot line it is exciting and enticing to see how the characters slowly start to open up to each other and fall in love.
7. Manner Of Death
Manner of Death is considered one of the best BL thrillers and suspense dramas in Thailand. The story is about a medical examiner, Dr. Bunnakit who finds himself in danger after he rules out suicide in a case. He is forced to go head-on with powerful people so that he can find out the truth and get justice for the victim. During his investigation, he meets Tan, who is also a suspect. Their love story is quite surprising and fascinating.
8. Tharntype
It is one of the most beloved dramas which fans can’t get enough of. The story is about a freshman in college, Type who is dealing with trauma after he gets molested by a male worker while he was a kid. Due to this, he hates gay men. He gets roomed with Tharn, a music major. They get along until Type learns that he is gay. Now he is determined to make him leave the room, but Tharn is also quite strong-willed. The tension between them explodes into a passionate and romantic relationship.
9. I Told The Sunset About You
The story is about two best friends, Teh and Oh-aew until a boyhood line of reasoning begins to turn them into rivals. They meet again years later as they are preparing for university. They both have an interest in the field of Communication Arts and meet in a Chinese language class. Their reunion begins to awaken unstable and complicated feelings. This drama gives off deep and beautiful vibes that make it so nostalgic. It has heartwarming dialogues, amazing acting, stimulating plot, and an astounding cinematography.
10. Not Me
Not Me is headlined by one of the most successful Thai BL on-screen couples, OffGun. Fans and critics believe that it is their best work till now. The story is about White, who assumes his twin brother, Black’s Identity so that he can find who was trying to kill his brother. He soon starts to realize that his brother is in a motorcycle gang. Disguised as his twin he meets Sean, who becomes suspicious due to the difference in his demeanor. This show is famous for discussing serious issues such as activism for LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand and corrupt leaders.
