SOTUS (2016)

Wanted to add something to my original review.
I'm totally shipping Arthit and Kong pop.
The more I see of Singto I feel he's so cute when he's on variety shows! So I'm shipping both Krist Singto and Arthit Kong pop lmao
That said while I found the romance of Sotus really good, I still stand by my original thoughtson Singtos acting and the idea of hazing.

I have so much to say about this one.

But first off those last two episodes were so good! I love every moment between Arthit and Kongpop, everything from the pink milk to Arthit switching their foods, and the "cog" as the heart was just adorable! I love their sense of humor and that scene at the bridge was just SO GOOD.

Skinship wise this is a REAL SLOW BURN okay. Even when it happens there's not much proper skinship which made it feel like a teen show. The kissing was barely anything more than a peck. I feel like it would have benefited from more but still whatever. Not a deal breaker.


Because on one hand I'm totally in love with Arthit and their moments, they were so so good but on the other hand the premise is so ridiculous it really hampered my viewing pleasure.

First off, this is the dictionary definition of Hazing:

haze
/he?z/Submit
verb
gerund or present participle: hazing

force (a new or potential recruit to the military or a university fraternity) to perform strenuous, humiliating, or dangerous tasks.

Hazing is NOT A GOOD thing.

See, I love seeing all those weird tropes in fiction I wouldn't ever want in real life. Stalker tropes, non con, etc. I saw ADDICTED and despite that non con scene I was in love with Gu Hai and Bai Luo Yin! Mostly because Gu Hai knew he was nuts, he was obsessed! He said it himself, he didn't even expect Luo Yin to forgive him let alone rationalize what he did!

But the problem is not with showing that kind of passion in fiction but the problem is in not realizing that it's abuse and non consent. That's why SOTUS bothered me so much. They kept acting like hazing was something positive lol ugh NO.

I would have just preferred to have Arthit be abusive bully and it could have been a story about peer pressure and problems at home, the reason so many students bully everywhere in the world and they could have fallen in love regardless like ADDICTED. If you've seen Bad Romance this is why I freaking love Knock and Korn, just watch their interaction, they literally come to blows that's how angry and passionate they get but never rationalize hitting someone!

So now that's out of the way, let's get on to the other aspects of the show.

First off, Krist played Arthit and he constantly reminded me of Suga, he does resemble him a bit but it was more than that, it was his attitude too, typical tsundere with a genuinely adorable and sweet soft side.

Singto played Kongpop and I love that he was assertive and not a pushover despite having a good heart. But I was disappointed by Singto's performance tbh he's handsome and all, but his facial expressions remain the same in every scene! Does he not have any real life experiences to draw on? Either that or he's too immature atm.

But I would definitely watch the next season even if it's mostly for Krist and a BL story line. It was entertaining and I think you should see it but it's not my favorite. As for the supporting cast M deserves a special mention but generally all the support cast was appealing. I liked that there were no slapstick annoying characters.

Btw despite the faults of the premise I would have rated it a ten if Singto's expressions weren't so woody all the time. So, I'm confused about shipping them atm. I kind of ship them but mostly I ship Arthit! I hope Singto gets better in the next season.

Leia Mais

I gave it a try, but I couldn't finish this series.

I know it's an older serie, one of the older popular bl series, and I also read the disclaimer at the beginning that this is pretty exaggerated, so I really really had little to none expectation. But I guess, I wasn't prepared enough. The acting wasn't good, the dialogues were bad, no humor, the whole hazing is really over the top, that it made me laugh in a negative way, etc.
Over the time I found Arthit to be cute and I felt like there is chemistry between the main leads, so I had the hope, that these will help me to finish the show, but unfortunately that wasn't the case... I really couldn't watch ep 6 at all, it was painful/cringy/exhausting, so I stopped there.
I really wanted to watch this show, because I saw some cute clips of this couple in YouTube, but I guess this is one of the bl series that didn't age well. Especially for someone who started to watch bl dramas only in 2022 and has watched some good bl series, watching this is not possible, or at least that was the case for me...

Leia Mais

I'm sorry but I can't accept this bullshit.

I'm extremely surprised at how popular this series is. I only managed to finish the first 3 episodes because I skipped over the repetitive hazing rituals. They were hard to watch not only because is it boring, it is also highly unrealistic for a small group of seniors to publicly haze an entire cohort of freshmen without interference from their peers, seniors, university staff, and even parents. And the rationale behind the hazing is to train freshmen to stand up for themselves and learn discipline and respect? Don't play sappy music over this explanation. It's an insult to my intelligence. This is not the military and it sure as hell is not a military school. This is as insane as the marry your rapist tropes in early Yaoi. How do they expect their audience suspend their disbelief to this level? The writers should read up on the consequences of hazing because what they are doing is romanticize hazing, which they understand because of the disclaimer before the show starts. On top of this, we are expected to believe Kong and Arthit fall for each other?

I skipped forward to the last episode and saw that Kong recognizes the "values" behind the SOTUS system but wanted to change the methods, then he becomes the hazing leader the following year. My eyes did a full 360 degree rotation.

I should also point out 2 instances of homophobia within the first 3 episodes. First, Arthit displayed his homophobia by asking Kong to proclaim he is gay. Second, Kong retaliated by saying he would make Arthit his "wife." It's popular shows like this that continue to enforce heteronormativity in society. This is why straight people are still asking same sex couples, 'Who's the man, who's the woman?"

Leia Mais

This isn't going to be super organized, i just see a lot of ratings that, for what it is, seem too high. tbh i don't watch many thai dramas, maybe all this is normal, but the production was just.... really bad.

there's one point in the drama where he removed the string the other guy tied on him, and it NEVER comes up again. but it was supposed to be dramatic. and later on it's magically back on and there's no scene addressing this. and the way the music is cut, the way the end of the episode is cut, it seems very low-budget. but it doesn't really bother me that much.

but i love the casting and acting. as an mlm myself, seeing a cast that doesn't look all like runway models is very refreshing. and the surroundings too, they look very normal. and the cast, altho there's some forced/cringey parts, act very much like how any group of friends i've been in acts. it's really worth watching, so long as low-production value doesn't hinder your ability to enjoy smth.

Leia Mais

SOTUS Series Critique

At first glance, *SOTUS* may seem unappealing due to its initial portrayal of a harsh and somewhat negative atmosphere. The story begins with a strict university hazing system that might feel off-putting to some viewers. However, this seemingly rough beginning is instrumental in establishing the foundation of the narrative. It artfully sets the stage for character development and the evolving dynamics between the lead characters, Arthit and Kongpob.

What initially appears as a negative tone quickly unfolds into a deeper exploration of personal growth, relationships, and breaking through societal expectations. The narrative's structure uses tension and conflict to organically organize the progression of the story, which allows the audience to witness the transformation of characters from positions of power imbalance into mutual respect and affection. The hazing system, although controversial, serves as a metaphorical backdrop for how individuals navigate and challenge traditional roles, ultimately leading to their emotional and psychological maturation.

The strength of *SOTUS* lies in how it blends these heavier themes with moments of tenderness, making the journey feel authentic and engaging. The chemistry between the leads, especially through their gradual shift from antagonism to understanding, adds depth to the story. This slow burn creates a satisfying narrative arc, rewarding patient viewers with a relationship that feels earned rather than rushed.

Moreover, *SOTUS* addresses the theme of authority and questioning norms. As Kongpob challenges the system and Arthit's leadership, the show subtly critiques the hierarchical structures that pervade both institutions and personal lives. This adds a layer of social commentary, allowing viewers to reflect on issues of power, conformity, and individuality.

In conclusion, while the series may not immediately capture your interest due to its initial negativity, it meticulously uses this as a narrative tool to highlight its core themes. The progression from antagonism to affection, combined with meaningful character development, elevates *SOTUS* into more than just a romance—it becomes a reflection of growth, respect, and challenging the status quo.

Leia Mais

I really liked it but...

Now, I went into Sotus expecting great things. Fans of BL dramas all seem to agree that this is one of the best if not the best BL drama. So I was expecting this to be my new favourite BL story and I'm afraid to say that its not, but that doesn't mean that I didn't enjoy it.
I have now seen several Thai BL dramas I started with Bad Romance last year, which was fine and I watched a little bit of Together With Me which was a lot better, but then I took a break from Thai dramas and only recently have gotten back into them. So I've been trying to get through the GMMTV BL dramas first, so I started with My Tee which has potential but it really wasn't that good. Then I moved on to Kiss: The Series and Kiss Me Again, I really enjoyed them both but especially Kiss Me Again, I'm a big PeteKao fan now. After that I moved on to My Dear Loser: Edge of Seventeen and WOW this drama was almost perfect to me, I thoroughly enjoyed the main couples love story and the chemistry between In and Sun was unbelievable - watching their bond and friendship grow was pure magic, although they didn't define their relationship they are my favourite GMMTV BL couple at the moment. I also watched Puppy Honey, it was pretty good, Pick and Rome had great chemistry but the writing for them wasn't the best (but I am very excited about the bits and pieces I've seen of Theory of Love - also OffGun's friendship is adorable)
When I finished Puppy Honey 1 and 2 I knew that I only had Sotus left before I could watch Our Skyy. So I saved Sotus knowing it was everyone's favouite and so I could compare it against all the other dramas and I did really enjoy it but certain parts also underwhelm me.
I think the writing was a little weak and dragged in some places but overall it was very good. The direction wasn't anything new or amazing, but it did the job more than well enough and the actors I thought did a brilliant job. So the one thing that let me down (and I hate to say it) was the lack of chemistry I felt between Singto and Krist, I really like the interviews and appearances they have made in other things, I love their personalities, but somehow the chemistry was missing a little for me in Sotus. That's not to say I didn't "aww" and squeal at their cute moments, because I 100% did, but as I said there were some scenes where I found the chemistry was missing.

Here's the thing chemistry is completely subjective, if it wasn't people wouldn't have shipping wars, so although I didn't see it clearly hundreds of thousands of people did and so the only real weakness this show has for me is a very personal reason, It may have also been that my expectations were way too high, but because this show is their love story, I'm afraid I can't give it a higher score, sorry! But I will be onto Sotus S soon and I'm pretty excited for it.

My current ratings for the GMMTV BL dramas:

My Dear Loser: Edge of Seventeen
Kiss Me Again
Sotus
Kiss: The Series
Senior Secret: Puppy Honey
Senior Secret: Puppy Honey 2
My Tee

Leia Mais

Ero molto indecisa riguardo il guardarlo o meno, ho sentito parlare di questo bl così tanto che mi sanguinano le orecchie ahahah e così, anche se per molto tempo mi sono rifiutata di guardarlo, ho deciso ugualmente di provare, non ero molto convinta con me stessa ma la curiosità era tanta, volevo sapere come mai ne parlavano così tanto e come mai moltissime persone ricordano questo bl come uno dei migliori.
Quindi eccomi qui, l’ho finito e devo dire che le persone avevano ragione, guardare questo bl è stata una delle esperienze più carine, sinceramente accordando con i miei gusti personali non penso sia uno dei migliori, penso sia ottimo e qualcosa da guardare assolutamente, si impara anche molto guardandolo.

La loro storia d'amore è una storia molto semplice, carina e senza troppi problemi.
Fin dall'inizio non pensavo che Kong facesse quelle battute sul fatto del far diventare sua moglie Arthit a causa dei suoi stessi sentimenti, più che altro pensavo facesse queste battute solo per il gusto di far arrabbiare Arthit dato che lo trattava male, quindi come sorta di “vendetta” e per prenderlo in giro, e che poi in seguito si fosse veramente innamorato di Arthit, questo è stato il mio pensiero fin quando non abbiamo scoperto che gli è sempre andato dietro, sin dall’inizio e che faceva quelle battute perché lo trovava carino quando si arrabbiava.
Diciamo che comunque Kong sin dall'inizio si è innamorato di Arthit e i suoi sentimenti sono rimasti gli stessi per tutta la durata della serie, per quanto invece riguarda Arthit lì abbiamo una situazione un po' più complessa, una situazione in cui all'inizio era infastidito da Kong e lo odiava poi quell’odio è diventato interesse verso l'altra persona, fin quando poi è diventato amore, però al centro di tutta questa situazione ci sono stati più punti complessi in cui lui non era a conoscenza dei suoi sentimenti, in cui li negava e infine in cui ne dubitava, dubitava del proprio futuro, dubitava del fatto che questo futuro potesse non essere buono e potesse non essere il meglio per Kong.
Tutto ciò che ha provato durante tutta la serie è stato qualcosa di abbastanza complicato in quanto erano più punti da guardare e lui vedeva bene la situazione generale, capiva che in fondo magari non era il meglio da fare quello di innamorarsi di Kong, quindi ne ha passate molte, ha fatto anche un po' soffrire Kong infatti hanno avuto un momento in cui pareva come se si fossero lasciati prima ancora di riuscire a mettersi insieme, alla fine però ce l'hanno fatta e ho apprezzato molto tutto quanto.
Oltre tutta questa situazione a me ha fatto molto piacere guardare questa serie per le bellissime parole dette da entrambi, mi piaceva ogni volta che si parlavano in modo sincero ed erano molto timidi l’un con l'altro, poi moltissime delle parole dette da Kong mi hanno fatto male al cuore (in quanto stavo morendo per come sa flirtare e parlare bene, era tutto molto romantico) per quanto fosse carino nel dire queste cose a Arthit, si vedeva che lo diceva col cuore e che era sincero ai massimi livelli.
La cosa che ho amato di più è stato quando Kong ha dato il suo gear a Arthit, si stava praticamente dichiarando ed io stavo a mori, che poi dico io tu (Arthit) stai da tre fottuti anni in sta università e non sai cosa significa sto gesto, aiutatemi.
Che poi sinceramente non lo sapeva perchè era troppo impegnato a stare appresso a una tizia che è fidanzata da tre anni, so che l’amore non svanisce dal nulla ma allo stesso tempo se vedi che sta tizia ha una relazione duratura, te devi prendere e farti passare la crush perchè si va avanti nella vita, non puoi rimanere bloccato in questi sentimenti che non potranno mai essere mostrati, menomale che poi decide di smuoversi ed andare avanti madooo.
Poi quando anche Arthit ha dato il suo gear a Kong io morta, sepolta e resuscitata non so quante volte, ero strafelice del fatto che finalmente aveva avuto il coraggio di fare qualcosa, di fare un passo avanti, di dargli delle speranze, finalmente si era smosso dal suo stare sempre fermo in quei sentimenti irremovibili.
Vabbè loro mi sono piaciuti un botto, ho amato molto anche la storia di Tum e sua moglie.

Parlando invece di M e May, scomparsi, totalmente scomparsi, mi è sempre piaciuto l'amore di M per May, è un amore molto sincero, tranquillo e veramente carino, sopratutto M che carino che era tutto timido anche solo nel sentire il nome di May, mi è dispiaciuto un botto per entrambi, May sarebbe finita col cuore spezzato e M sentiva di odiare un pò il suo migliore amico per colpa dei sentimenti di May, arrivando pure a pensare che Kong ricambiasse quei sentimenti, per questo sono stata molto più in pace quando Kong ha rifiutato May, sia perchè lei poteva finalmente andare avanti sia per M che ha sentito ciò e si è riappacificato la testa riguardo Kong.
Mi è dispiaciuto che comunque May abbia detto ad M “Ti piaccio?” perchè indipendemente dalla risposta sai che tu (May) non sei pronta mentalmente a ricambiare M, giustamente sei stata appena rifiutata quindi la tua mente deve ancora elaborare il tutto e buttarlo via, quindi prima di chiedere ciò devi pensare che potresti farlo stare male se lui ti rispondesse che effettivamente ti ama, non è molto bello. So che magari l’ha chiesto senza pensarci ma con cose del genere penso che si debba pensare prima di parlare, poi dopo sta cosa nulla, il nulla assoluto, non si sa se alla fine si sono piaciuti entrambi o qualunque cosa su di loro e sta cosa mi dispiace un botto, ero molto curiosa.

In generale consiglio molto sta serie, l’ho guardata col sorriso stampato in faccia, è qualcosa di molto soft e carino.

Leia Mais

My Hones Opinion :

Honest Opinion:
This is the Second BL Drama that I DIDN'T like that much.
Comprised of 15 episodes the first 9 were mostly revolved around the SOTUS hazing, then we start with the real Love story.
There were some long filler-scenes, filler-episodes ( the Flag one ), some missed opportunities.
Regarding Production:
The Audio was OK, sometimes it was lacking, sometimes muffled, sometimes very good.
The Cinematography was OK as well, nothing special.
The Characters: Not Fully Realised. I couldn't connect with Kongpob nor Arthit. At some point, I was more invested in Em's and May's relationship, to be honest 😅.
I wish that would have been MORE in-depth conversations between Kongpob and Em since they're literally best friends ( like expressing their emotions or how they felt regarding their crushes instead of just nothing ). And just one scene doesn't count in my opinion.
Also #PremWad. I wanted to see more 😭.
I understand that the show is also about the SOTUS method, and I liked the fact that they wanted to incorporate some traditions in there. But I think it was a little too much overdone.

Leia Mais

In the SOTUS the Series (2016), in Ep. 6 [4/4], the main role character ‘Bright’ tells TuTah,

“Is this the time to say that, you FAG?”

I know a translator’s slip should not spoil one’s fun, and I have tried to remain fair about the whole thing. BUT, I must admit, it was a shock and a disappointment. Actually, I was hurt and for that reason pissed off and do not know of any other way to vent my frustration than to express my feelings here.

In America and Europe the term ‘fag’ is the most derisive, insulting and humiliating hate-term you can use against a gay person. Shame on the translators and shame on anyone responsible for allowing such hateful speech on public television. To the translator of this insult I would like to say, “this world belongs to all of us - so get used to it”.

I hope the ignorant person who did this will grow a heart and learn to consider the terrible impact this word will have on young minds... including gay kids, and gay-friendly kids. After getting punched like this in the middle of a supposedly safe LB series, many vulnerable-gay ones will learn to hide even more, while the gay-friendly will learn to be less friendly.

Words are like swords: they cut!

As to the rest of the series, I found it very entertaining and well made; the chemistry a little off balance, though, with the character of Kongpob taking most of the credit. I was, nonetheless, enjoying myself up until that moment when I got slapped in the face by the unfortunate translation. I must confess I stopped watching at that point and proceed to declare it so in this here review. This is a ‘partial review’ of a good series spoiled by an ignorant translator that injected it with venom.

Ps. To the translator... I am a grown person who can take this and more; but, think of the young ones, you prick!

(Apologies to all of the rest).

Leia Mais