HIStory3: Armadilha (2019)

Do you like well-developed plots and characters? Do you like amazingly diverse acting? Do you like insanely emotional, heart-warming romances? Do you like beautifully shot scenes? Then this is the BL for you!!
First thing I'd like to say is, I'm going to review this series in the bounds of its genre, aka BL Series.
If you've never watched a BL series before I definitely recommend starting with this one. It is truly one of the best.
One big thing to know about BL series: There's a lot of intense/cheesy romantic scenes.
The main reason I absolutely loved this series though was the fact that they didn't make it all about the romantic scenes or all about the main couple/side couples. They had a bigger overarching storyline that didn't feel forced at all and made a lot of sense.
Most BLs focus a lot on romantic scenes and making the show all about cute couple moments and it doesn't give the characters much room to grow other than in their love life. But this one does not do that at all.
It has such a great overarching storyline on gang life and the things Tang Yi and Shao Fei were struggling with. And the development of the story as well as the development of the characters, specifically Tang Yi and Shao Fei, was for the most part very fluid and well thought out. The plot never became repetitive, it was fast-paced but still managed to keep a lot of suspense that had me at the edge of my seat.
The acting was incredible considering some of the cast's lack of acting experience. I loved watching the live streams the cast and director recorded following each week of episodes as you really could notice the amount of work and thought that was put into the relationships between actors and their characters. The director did an amazing job at guiding the actors to understand more and more about their characters so they could portray them better in the show. And it's noticeable the amount of studying and effort the actors put into their characters. I truly applaud everyone from the main cast, especially Chris.
Lastly, I believe the series is doing what it aimed to do and that is to top the last few seasons of History. I personally loved crossing the line, which I think is the second most popular story out of the whole show, but it clearly did not have the chance to be as detailed with the plot lines as Trapped did.
I really believe this BL series does what many BL series can't do and that is finding a good balance between the romantic scenes the BL genre is known and loved for and a solid, logical storyline that makes the show that much more enjoyable to watch.
Some things I wish could have been better: the character development for Li An and Jack as a couple and as individuals, the development of Shao Fei's relationship with his boss, and the development of Zhi De's character. I believe most of these issues were created by the lack of time the show had. Most shortcomings of BL series are caused by the lack of time but I understand that this is caused by the small size of the industry and lack of funds.
I've already watched the show twice and I can say that it is really so good and interesting, I definitely recommend this show if you like a sad but still not-too-cruel angst story accompanied by cute romances.

Leia Mais

•story:
○i mean, i am quite biased towards this sort of plot; it's a trope that i love. the character introductions and developments were nice and the story line flowed pretty well. there were however certain areas i thought could have been written a bit better. i thought some scenes were slightly unnecessary and that time could have been put into better use with another scene. nevertheless, i love how the story never got incredibly deep or remained too light; it was a sweet balance of comedy, drama, action, and love. i appreciated all its twists and turns since it kept the story intriguing for me. overall i was quite pleased with the story.

•acting:
○first off, i must seriously commend Chris on his acting in this drama. he did so great! his eyes spoke so much raw emotion that i was taken aback as the episodes progressed. he really did a fantastic job with the role. i've always seen this sort of role a bit difficult to play since it's so easy to come off as a bland character. however Chris really shone in this part.
○Jake's character was a weird one, i've got to say. but it grew on me (by the end of the first episode ahaha). he portrayed it well enough to make me think that's how he usually acts irl. let me note however: that in the later episodes, i was a very slightly detached from his character though. he didn't hold me in as strongly as he did in the earlier ones. i'm not sure if it was the writing of his character or his acting that came into play here. but overall, he did well with this quirky character!
○Kenny and Andy were amply cute! it was very satisfying watching their lighthearted scenes. i'm not even surprised their popularity among the couples was so high. Andy's smile captivated me from his very first scene! Kenny is simply naturally adorable ㅠ.ㅠ

○i really want to give all the actors compliments on their acting!

•music:
○wow, from the first time i heard each of the main osts, i fell in love! i desperately scoured the internet for the full songs and the singers. the singers evoke so much emotion with these songs. i can bravely say this drama had one of the best osts i have ever heard. it's one of those you'll always remember. incredibly beautiful,,

i've only just recently finished the drama and while writing this review on a cozy, rainy day, i'm already missing it ❤

Leia Mais

HIStory: Trapped (2019) set the bar high for BL series and it is generally, a well-made drama

The storyline was well thought out. It was able to balance the romance and action aspects of the drama series. There was character development which I really loved; furthermore, the progression of the relationship between Shao Fei and Tang Yi was realistic. They were initially enemies that turned into acquaintances and gradually became friends. When the “dating” started, Tang Yi made it clear that he wanted to try it out instead of diving into it immediately which was really realistic unlike other dramas I watched where they were lovers in an instant without the awkwardness, exploration, and getting to know each other part. The background story of Tang Yi was also established comprehensibly. It provided depth to his character and foundation for the audience to understand his actions throughout the plot. On a side note, I love the music so much. The lyrics (I read the translated version) matched the story in the series. It is one of the best OST I heard in BL dramas. It was catchy and the kind of song that could make you “feel” the scenes.

In my opinion, what made this series so great was the ability to give love scenes full of passion in a very natural way. It was not over the top where it was really sexual. I noticed that some of the BL dramas were too focused on portraying a sexual scene that it loses its other elements. One good example was the seduction scene between Shao Fei and Tang Yi. It was intimate and hot, yes, but the scene also established the connection of Shao Fei and Tang Yi as lovers. When they leaned on the wall, Shao Fei’s nervousness of being caressed was seen which gave the idea that he wasn’t able to handle the overwhelming feelings in that situation. On the other hand, when Tang Yi kissed Shao Fei’s wound, it gave a sense of appreciation and admiration towards the heroic act of Shao Fei. Basically, the drama was able to incorporate an intimate scene while showing the progression of the story as well as the relationship between the characters.

The bed scenes was just enough to show us that they love each other. In addition, the chemistry between the actors were really strong, kudos to the actors’ acting skills. The movements and facial expressions played an important role too. You could see that they were not stiff and it didn’t seem rehearsed, like I said, it was very natural. The smile, rolling on the bed, closing of eyes and the actors being immersed in the scene made it astounding. We were able to enjoy and feel the attraction between the couples in just a few minutes; moreover, the main couple exhibited passionate love scene while the second couple gave us the energetic and innocent one. HIStory 3: Trapped provided an excellent execution of the love stories between the main and second couple.

The actors were great in the series. They were able to play their parts really well. I guess what made the series work for me was the comfortability of the characters towards each other. Overall, it really set the bar high for BL dramas and it was generally a well made drama series. I recommend this drama for people who is looking for a great romance-action series with character development and good storyline.

Leia Mais

HIStory 3 Made Me Stare At Tang AND Jack For Hours

I binged this entire series in 1 day with my best friend and I have no regrets. I liked the actors chemistry for both couples and the overall story was super interesting as well. I wish we would've gotten more "relationship" time shown on screen but what we did get was wholesome. It was a tie between Tang Yi and Jack was as my favorite character. Both actors are so fineeee. Holy crap I couldn't stop staring at them. Also (more importantly) their character portrayals were quite different from each other but both very well done! Andy's portrayal of Jack was really sweet, even if he was wearing leather gloves the entire time realistically he is such a soft boi. He also had this air of mystery to him that makes me want to see a spinoff of his past. Chris as Tang I think actually had some of the best acted scenes in the entire show. The character has to go from emotionally unavailable, cold and calculated to likable in a fairly short amount of time. The more you learn about Tang, the more you fall in love with him. He's actually just a very damaged, hurt person from his past and he needs love danggit! Which makes his relationship with Meng so much more believable and stronger because it's literally what he needs to be better. They're so different and it's hilarious seeing them interact off of eachother, like I was cracking up!

I should also mention that the writing in this show is actually really REALLY good. It could pass as a non-BL mystery cop drama easily. Everything flowed together story-wise, the entire mystery side of it was actually gripping and surprising where it went. I was devastated for Tang having to learn about his birth parents, to then lose Chen in the last episode. The man's been through enough already geez! So well done though. I can see why some viewers might dislike the ending but I thought it was pretty realistic. It probably would've been better if we saw a flash forward of him and Meng reuniting after release, but the implication is there so oh well! Definitely one to watch if you haven't, be ready for a well done story with some romance sprinkled in there for good measure.

Leia Mais

The best story of the History series

Among all the BL out there this series is indubitaby one of the best, both for the writing, the acting and the directing. The chemistry among the cast members is top notch and the story very interesting even outside the romance part of it.
As for the 2 couples they are equally lovable, the main one is wonderful and the evolution of their relationship is so good to watch. Shaofei with is perseverance and kindness manages to melt Tang Yi walls and defences and it's wonderfull to watch.
The second couple is just plain adorable Zhao Li An is so endearing and sweet that Jack is ensnared by him almost without realizing,
watch it it:
you love angsty stories with perfect ending
if you are looking for a enemys to lover romance
if you are simply looking for a good story with good acting and a bunch of very interesting characters

don't watch it:
well if you do not like mm relationship (but why should you be here then?) or if you really do not like crime stories or if you are looking for cruel vicious gangster and hero police forces.

Leia Mais

Start watching if you still haven't

Guys this is a must watch. I found this series in November and honestly I've watched it more than 6 times and I still love it. The storyline, characters, OST, acting everything is just perfect. Chemistry of both the CPs was so interesting. I'm pretty sure you all will love it. If you guys have time, watch the behind the scenes of the show in YouTube by Line TV. You'll see how familiar and friendly the cast is with each other and that's the reason the couples had an awesome chemistry. I won't post spoilers but the ending is totally relatable and justified. You won't feel sad seeing the ending. Do watch the show!!

Leia Mais

I Married a Mobster

I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this one, the premise is totally unrealistic... but I'm so happy I did and would love to see a sequel. What a fun series. I'm THRILLED to see a new storyline in the BL universe. Cop falling for Mobster and all of the intrigue, mystery, danger etc that goes along with it. They actually created a good detective story first and then allowed the two main characters to fall in love. It did get a bit convoluted and confusing, especially since we only hear the mystery details after the fact from third parties, but even if you come for the mystery, you will stay for the love story.

The growth of this relationship (while ridiculous in its premise), made absolute sense to me. You could see each of the main characters come to learn more and more about each other that would allow them to trust each other and even fall in love with each other. That gradual evolution is what made this story work best for me.

There is so much humor that works really well. Several characters are preposterously over the top, but the actors play them with such sweet, gentle, natural manners that they work perfectly. Jake Hsu was awkward and ungainly in all the right ways. But I also believed he was smart, loyal, honest and a really good cop. My favorite "touch" was his unkempt hair. They have one lock of hair ALWAYS out of place, sticking out in the most ridiculous manner. It became his signature and I came to miss it when he washed his hair and it disappeared. Kenny Chen may be my favorite naive "little boy" (alongside Plan as Can in Love by Chance). He is so vulnerable and trusting and goofy. I can't wait until he stars in his own BL series. This kid deserves to be a star. Unfortunately, Chris Wu is pretty horrible. He is wooden, blank-faced, lacking the internal emotions needed for this complex character. This is a recurring problem in BL series. They go for the good looking bad boy, but rarely can they find an actor who can play the subtleties of those roles. Chris did have some good moments, toward the latter half of the series, when he got to open up and express his affection for Meng Fei.

Those moments, when the two relaxed and allowed themselves to be boyfriends, were some of my favorites in the series. Despite the very quick transition in their relationship, you could sense an ease between the two actors. They truly portrayed the trust and relief you can only get in the arms of your beloved. The kissing and intimacy scared me at first. I didn't think they were going to pull it off. The first kiss was so tight-mouthed that I feared it would never look natural. But by the end of the series, these two were making out like they meant it. It got steamy for a second!

I appreciated the secondary BL romance, though it was even more ridiculous than the first. But again, Kenny Chen made his character so believable I wanted to fly to Taiwan and marry him myself. And I truly enjoyed the hetero romance as well. I thought it was well established and with little back-story I was able to understand both sides of this couple and was happy they came together in the end. Kudos to Diane Lin who does an excellent job as well. The filial love between these two "siblings" was another strong aspect of the series.

At times I thought the music was inspiring and spot on, but at other times it felt like it was lifted from a library of stock music that I've heard in so many other series.

Solid direction, cinematography, editing throughout. Truly high production values that helped propel this to the top of my list.

I will watch this one again FOR SURE.

Leia Mais

This has been, hands down, the best gay drama I’ve ever seen. Did it have its issues? Sure. Would I change some things? Yeah. But generally, it was made with a lot of heart and warmth and a genuine desire to give people a fanfic-like story about a mob boss and the cop chasing him, literally.

Out of the 3 main pairings - Shao Fei/Tang Yi, Jack/Zhao Zi and Hong Ye/Dao Yi - I was most interested in Shao Fei & Tang Yi, the least in Jack & Zhao Zi, which was probably obvious from my recaps. But I really liked Hong Ye & Dao Yi, the only het pairing, and that’s a rare thing in gay dramas, that the het pairing isn’t there just so not everybody’s gay but that they actually have an interesting arc, too. So much kudos for that.

I loved Tang Yi and Hong Ye’s sibling relationship. I loved the glimpse of what could’ve been between Shao Fei and Chen Wen Hao. I loved the unexpectedly multi-layered relationship between Shao Fei and Captain Shi. I loved Tang Yi’s friendship with Doctor Jian. And I loved the flashbacks to Boss Tang mentoring Tang Yi…

What I didn’t expect was how non-cliché turned out Shao Fei to be. No crisis of sexuality or morality when he realized he fell for a male gangster. No, just pure love and determination to save Tang Yi even against Tang Yi’s will.

And the same goes for Chen Wen Hao. I started off hating that guy and ended up crying for him. He truly was a man screwed over by fate - and his friends. If only Boss Tang tried harder to get him out of jail. If only Li Chen waited for him. Everything could’ve been different.

I was one of the few who liked the music choices in this drama - from smooth jazz to the tinkling bells - and the slo-mo. But then, I’m old-school *shrugs*

Leia Mais

One of my favourites

Absolutely loved it. Tang Yi and Shao Fei just made sense, the actors’ chemistry is so good, it’s OFF-THE-CHARTS. Like yin and yang, Shao Fei balances and brings out the loving side of Tang Yi whereas Tang Yi makes Shao Fei settle down and have a focus other than the case he’s been investigating for 4 years- get his man for a different reason.

Chris Wu as Tang Yi is so good! His controlled expressions, his character arc is absolutely a joy to watch.

The background story keeps it real, this is why I avoid most school-based BL stories, I am bored with them.

All characters were interesting, this is the first HIStory series that I was not at all bored with at any second and didn’t fast forward any part.

The ending is very realistic for me.

Leia Mais

SUPERB!!!

One of the best BL Series I watched this year, 2021. At the first I am hesitant to watch due to a lot of series that I am currently watching such as Korean, Japanese, Thai's and Chinese series but without further thinking, I got hooked and attached to the first episode until I didn't notice the time has been passed by and finished watching it for one whole night until I saw dawn outside of my window.

CHEMISTRY is totally incredible, I love how they help each other and how they portrayed their characters in every scene, plus the side couple is also entertaining. I am now loving the lead stars Chris Wu and Jake Hsu.

STORYLINE, when you think of it, a Gangster and a Policeman will fell in love to each other and that took my attention, plus the twists of the story at the end, makes me feel like I am watching Korean drama.

REWATCH VALUE, well I had been watching the series for 3 consecutive times, therefore it is worth to watch and from it I can still feel that "goosebumps" and the "love" factor as if it's my first time watching the series.

This is definitely indeed a worth watch series from Taiwan.

Leia Mais

Definitely the best out of all HIstory parts.

I absolutely loved this one, and I am extremely glad I saved this one for last out of the HIstory parts.
If you are (like I was) thinking about whether you should watch “make our days count” or “trapped” first I strongly recommend you watch “make our days count” first and end the Series with this one.

The actors were extremely well chosen in my opinion, I absolutely bought their portrayal of their characters. I loved their chemistry, there was no awkwardness at all. The side characters where extremely fitting as well.

This whole Drama was a mixture of lighthearted fun and seriousness that didn’t feel misplaced at all.
I literally savoured every second and every emotion of this one, sadness, happiness, romance, I really can’t find much to criticise.

Definitely watch this if you’re still wavering.

Leia Mais

History 3 : Trapped is my first BL drama ever!

I think it's a good drama to begin with and I wasn't disappointed at all. It was really entertaining and now that I've seen other Bl dramas I think the plot is pretty original (it's not a school drama like it often is). The story was interesting but if we cut the BL part I think I wouldn't have like it as much as I had. I think the chemistry between the main leads but also between the second leads (I loved Jack) is really enjoyable. The romance between the leads is really beautiful, and I liked the end.
One thing I didn't like is the way of acting of some actor (for instance Tang Yi, in one scene he wasn't credible at all and that bothered me a little). I recommend this drama for those who want a good BL with an original plot (but it's far from being a good thriller, it's still a BL and the story focus on Tang Yi and Shao Fei).

Leia Mais