Bad Buddy (2021)

Great fluff, but forgetable.

This is not a bad series. But I also don't feel it's as good as most other people do. I would recommend it, but here's my honest review:

The first half of this is spectacular - it roughly follows Romeo & Juliet, so it's hard to go wrong. The director does a fantastic job of ratcheting up the dramatic tension until the end of Ep 5. But then nothing happens. The major conflict with Pran's best friend Wai just evaporates without real resolution due to an external circumstance - there's no conversation about what happened - one moment he's homicidal, the next he's totally OK with everything.

The central conflict between the families also never goes anywhere - there's a brief reveal of the origin of the conflict, and then it's never addressed again - it just goes away... after a time jump.

Speaking of which, time jumps are lazy. The director opted, instead of confrontation and resolution of the central conflict, to just leaping over it. That makes it incomprehensible why they would endure the enormous sacrifice of keeping their relationship secret for five years.

I love that we got to see the main couple interacting as a couple throughout most of the series rather than a hug in the last 10 seconds of the series, but the entire second half of the series is basically just cute moments between them, with no further development of their relationship from the climax on the rooftop in Ep 5, and so it gets repetitive and dull - I've never before in my life ff'd though romantic scenes in BLs, but I was just bored and in the later episodes, relied on 2x to get through them. They seem more like friends with benefits than a real couple. In the last ep, they interact exactly like they did at the beginning - not like people who have been building a life together for 5 years.

Ep 5 was the peak because it contained a very skillful buildup of tension with an extremely satisfying resolution. Because all the conflict after that just disappeared, we were cheated of a satisfying resolution. The couple never had to fight for anything to be together - they just were. For 7 more episodes with very little happening plot-wise. If there are no stakes, there's no tension, and nothing to invest in, so all you have left is cute boys being cute to each other, which is great, but disappointing if it's all there is.

The acting in this is very good. Ohm and Nanon obviously really like each other, so their relationship is comfortable, and Jimmy is a standout as Wai - he was downright scary in Ep 5 and he has a strong presence.

So if you want a fluffy feel-good series to watch, you can't beat this. But instead of being what it could have been, one of the best BL series of all time, the director just didn't know how to resolve the dramatic tensions he'd build up, so he just punted, and as a result, other than Ep 5, this series is eminently forgetable. I doubt anyone feels that way just after watching the finale, but I suspect many will, in fact, forget it fairly soon.

Leia Mais

Amazing!

I watched my first BL Series in 2004 (yes i am an old lady) and many others after, but never have i seen such a realistic BL Series like this. The Chemistry of the Characters are amazing, also the Storyline is beautiful managed. And what impressed me the most was the realism. If you are in a relationship, especially at this age you want to kiss your partner, hug your partner and experiment all kind of things. You don't want to listen to your parents and make your own decisions even if they might be wrong. The Series made me think of my youth and the decisions they made and the way they expresst there feelings and longings are on point. If you are interested in a more realistic BL Series than is that one the right choice!

Leia Mais

Bad Buddy has raised my standards for bls

So I went into this drama having 0 expectations, I hadn't seen the trailer, had no ideas what it was about or that it even existed until 5eps had already aired. I saw reaction videos about it popping up and decided to give it a try. It wasn't exactly "love at first episode" but I kept going and here we are now- this drama has completely taken over my life and I don't think I'll ever get over it.

What I love about the series:
- The acting!!! Every scene feels so natural + the way Ohm and Nanon can show emotions through their eyes is amazing. Of course it's not just the leads, everyone working in this series is very good at what they do.
- The chemistry between Pat & Pran. Ohm & Nanon are very close friends irl who are completely comfortable around each other and it shows with their characters.
- The music. Always switching just as the emotions of the scene changes & helps to enhance whatever the characters are feeling.
- The product placements have created some of the cutest & most memorable scenes.
- There's so much fluff!
- Pat & Pran does this thing called "talking to each other" so we avoid a lot of annoying issues most dramas have with the miscommunication trope (I personally hate it with passion)
- Girl characters aren't used just to create conflict between the main couple & they actually feel like characters not cardboard cutouts... (*looking at most bl series*)
- One of the best bl kiss scenes.
-It's nice to see environmental issues casually brought up throughout the series (like the eco bus stop & green camp they went to)
- There's no homophobia which I personally like. Everyone has issues with Pat & Pran being together but not because they're both men.
- The story itself isn't really anything new and unseen but the way it's told is what makes it special and enjoyable.
- They keep subverting our expectations, sometimes you're sure everything is going one way but then something else happens.
- It's acknowledging and breaking annoying tropes commonly seen in BLs
- Highly rewatchable episodes

Best Thai BL of 2021 for sure.

Leia Mais

Some things just go together, like Pat and Pran

I'm not one to usually write reviews, but after being on this ride for 3 months I felt it necessary. This BL is far above the rest. It is a huge breath of fresh air with how positive and healthy the relationship is. This is one you will not regret watching. This will set the new benchmark for any BL to come after this.

I have never had a show have me waiting every single week with high anticipation for the episode to be released. I have never had a show keep me up the night before the final episode like this one. I was terrified that Pat and Pran would be torn apart. I was terrified that they would suddenly turn toxic.

Instead of turning toxic, they communicate with each other, they come up with plans with each other. They don't completely devote all of their time to each other they focus on their own goals, which is healthy!!!

I am usually one to hate time jumps, this is the only time jump that I've ever thoroughly enjoyed. Hats off to P'Aof for delivering an absolutely perfect series, not just for the BL world, but for the drama world.

To fake a break up for 4 years takes dedication, it was refreshing to see that even at the end the parents knew they couldn't keep them apart. So while the boys thought they were still a secret their parents knew the whole time!

Leia Mais

Bad Buddy - You Came, You Triumphed and You Conquered all our hearts

I have to give it P'Aof. He Literally is the best director in the whole world. Never was I so happy to have been fooled by a preview. From the beginning till the end You literally had us on the edges of our seats, making us eagerly wait for every Friday to make us see this Masterpiece. The series breaks stereotypes and proves that true love conquers all. The Story, the acting, the cast, the visuals, everything was perfect. I'd literally re-watch this series for another hundred times and never get tired of it. Pat and Pran from enemies to friends to lovers navigate and deepen their relationship with each other's support and with communication - something which many series lack and one which Bad Buddy Championed. This series is the New Benchmark for BLs. It deserves the fame and recognition and I hope to see Ohm and Nanon in another Bl directed by P'Aof himself. Dont forget to keep it high in your watchlist and Don't Forget the series iconic quote: You may not be able to change the world, But the world can't change you either. So live your life the way you want.

Leia Mais

BL THAT IS WORTH THE HYPE

I want to start this review off by saying this BL is one that is so worth the hype! It progressively kept getting better and better. When I first watched the unofficial trailer during GMMTV 2021 I was hooked, but when the official trailer came out I was a bit disappointed (I just wasn't as into it as the unofficial trailer). However, when the actual series came out boy was I FARRRRR from being disappointed. This series is a MASTERPIECE. The acting is phenomenal and Ohm and Nanon did an amazing job at bringing Pat and Pran to life (they seriously deserve many awards for this series). Their chemistry was so good and there was nothing awkward about them at all, everything looked so natural. They conveyed emotions effortlessly and I swear their acting is top notch! Another thing about this BL is it defeats the stereotypes typically found in other BLs like the husband and wife/top and bottom stereotype, I'm not gay I only like him stereotype, homophobic parents, etc. ALSO WE GET SOME GL CRUMBS IN THIS DRAMA FROM INK AND PA. Another thing that I loved about this drama was that Pat and Pran had such a healthy relationship and communicated! They did not let silly misunderstandings drag on and get between them when they were finally together and they worked through things together and fixed things right away. They leaned on each other and were each others strength during tough times. ALSO WANNA MAKE A SPECIAL MENTION TO PAT BECAUSE THAT BOY WAS SERIOUSLY THE BEST. HE REALLY DID EVERYTHING HE COULD TO MAKE PRAN HAPPY AND I SERIOUSLY NEED A PAT IN MY LIFE. This series was never boring and I looked forward to watching a new episode every Friday (and for me that is amazing because I usually get bored watching ongoing dramas because I lose my excitement). This series had everything one could ever ask for: romance, comedy, a little bit of angst and drama. Overall, this BL was so entertaining and incorporated various lessons into the plot. Props to P'Aof, Ohm, Nanon, and the rest of the cast and production team for giving us Bad Buddy.

Leia Mais

What more can be said about this masterpiece that hasn't already been said?

I'll try though XD.

Bad Buddy excelled my expectations in every way, this being a GMMTV series I didn't know what to expect. I kept my expectations low because while yes more of their series have been good, others start strong then fall apart as they head towards the finish line. So, I was cautions...
But:
Bad Buddy? Surprised me. It was special from the beginning it always took the unexpected turn which pleasantly surprised me and made me happy. The plot was nicely tied with the themes told making one of the best BL series I have ever seen. This was my first time seeing Nanon I had heard how talented this kid is but knowing this was his first BL I was skeptical. WELL He surprised me! Yes, he's as talented as everyone has said he is, but I was expecting that uncomfortableness that we often get from the actors in this series. I'm happy that we never, ever got that from him. His scenes with Ohm were so natural that it was hard to believe that it was his first time playing a lgbtq character. He settled naturally into Pran's skin. I'm thankful for that. He's definitely become one of my favorite actors thru this series. I felt all of his emotions as I watched him, give him all the awards because he deserves them. I hope we get to see him in another BL in the future & if it's with Ohm even better!
I've been Ohm's fan since he did, He's Coming to Me. It was nice to see him in another BL. I knew he was gonna be amazing here and he didn't disappoint. Actually, he's gotten even better. His chemistry with Nanon was explosive. They are one of the most natural couples, the little touches they added to Pat and Pran were top notch too.
The rest of the cast was good too, just wish we would have seen more of Wai, Korn, Pa & Ink. All amazing characters in their own right. But this series was centered on Pat & Pran, I understand that the whole attention was on them.
The OST wow.... I'm in love. Perfect touch of adding the songs into the story. Nanon's voice was perfect for them too.
Rewatch Value???? 10 of course I will be watching this as many times as I can.
Overall? If I could give it more than 10 I would. Since on MDL I can't go over 10 though it has to be a 10 XD.
Thank you, Bad Buddy, for being the masterpiece you are, for always exceeding expectations, breaking dumb cliche's + molds. Likable characters. Having a strong couple who never let anything, or anyone get in the way of their love. & For having cohesive storytelling & most importantly for not being afraid to tell the story you wanted. If anyone still hasn't seen this show, what are you waiting for? Do it now. No regrets I guarantee. One of the best BL's I have seen in a long time.

Leia Mais

Love is Love and in the end, it will always win!

Bad Buddy Series is standing out in the BL genre like a diamond in the rough and for very good reasons.

For one, the onscreen couple Ohm Nanon is an awesome force! I can’t resist falling in love with them since the series started. I have been a huge fan of Ohm since He’s Coming To Me and wow this boy is flawlessly talented. His acting skills have won him awards so I was a little worried Nanon wouldn’t measure up because I haven’t seen any of his shows. Turns out I had nothing to worry about. Nanon is a powerhouse just like Ohm and what a searing chemistry these two have. There were several memorable scenes that were so well done and played with my emotions. My heart didn’t stand a chance. This is a match made in BL heaven! Words are not enough to describe how amazing Ohm Nanon are.

Hats off to P’Aof! He didn’t let those talents go to waste. His direction and romantic story telling is cohesive and effective in its delivery and execution. He kept it simple and easy to follow. It was light, feel good and wonderful in so many ways as it consciously avoided head scratching stereotypes that are so far out from reality. I think this is what a BL should be.

They also found wonderful familiar supporting casts from the friends to the parents. I love Ink Pa so much! WaiKorn (played by Jimmy and Drake) who initially pissed off became lovable in the end.

From the instrumentals used to the 3 main songs (Just Friend, Secret, Our Song), Bad Buddy became a truly enjoyable journey because of the wonderful soundtrack.

Never mind that this love story is nothing new and used the tired old trope of enemies turned lovers in yet another university setting, or if they peppered it with so much PP you’d be absolutely bladdered if you turn it into a drinking game lol!

Bad Buddy was created with so much heart and made me believe in love all over again ! I can’t believe it’s over.
Now time for some rewatch.

Leia Mais

A masterpiece of a series that sets a new standard for all BL dramas

NO-SPOILER REVIEW

I don't even know where to begin. Do yourself a favor and just watch this series. It does everything right. Watching it was a wonderful journey and I'm just sad that it had to come to an end.

Pros
- The casting. The acting. The chemistry. All sheer perfection. Ohm and Nanon made this series the phenomenon that it is. The attention to detail, the subtleties of expressions, the realism, it's all perfection.
- The plot unfolds wonderfully in a way that keeps you invested from start to finish. It takes you through such a wide range of emotions in the best way possible.
- The music is top-tier and really elevates the series. Just hearing the OST immediately transports you back into the story.

Cons
- There were a couple moments where they could have shown some things more detail, or addressed certain points that they glossed over. It plays into an overarching theme of just wanting more of this entire series. The fact that it had to end was the biggest downside.

Overall
- What are you waiting for? Watch it. This series sets a new standard for all dramas, BL or not.

Leia Mais

The beginning of a new Era of BLs?

okay, the final curtain has fallen of one of the most hyped BLs since 2020. And damn what a ride...

even with his flaws in storytelling and the conflicts which are resolved in just an episode had Bad Buddy an undeniable deep emotional impact, primarily thanks to the great Mainactors who are definitely some of the best actors of a BL. Everything felt natural, the dramatic scenes but also their everyday life as a couple.

The other great influence was the directing of Backaof who already proved that he could push the boundaries of the BL-Genre, but here he also tries something new, like the perspective of the show which is equal as a couple and not with one Main character and his love interest. Or the meta jokes about some tropes like „gay for you“ and „Husband and Wife“.

But besides that, there is also another level that is very soft, metaphoric but also very personal like the tears in Prans eyes in episode 4 or the monologue of Tong (the zero waste guy) , that the world can’t change him. At this moment is Bad Buddy more than a BL but very carefully in a subversive, melancholic way which truly touched my heart.

All in all, I’m happy about the success of Bad Buddy and even if it’s not that masterpiece, as it is hyped right now, it’s still a great show and I’m curious if the success of Bad Buddy will affect the BL-Genre as a whole.

Leia Mais

Cute romantic and adorable

This drama is absolutely adorable. I didn’t expect it to be such a healing story to watch.
Pat and Pran are two of the best caring and lovely main characters I met in a while. Also, the relationship between Pat and his sister is beautifully portrayed (she is one of my favorite character) they’re always so supportive of each other!
The plot is well written, the dialogues are super cute, the interactions between all the friends are really well made and the chemistry between Nanon and Ohm is unbelievably good (the first kiss made me having goosebumps, I really felt it on my skin). In my opinion their acting is the cherry on top of the entire series.

The trope enemies (to friends) to lovers is portrayed in such a fresh and cute way that makes you fall in love again and again with both the main characters, episode after episode.
It’s a rollercoaster of emotions and it’s all so good! I swear, Pran and Pat have such a beautiful and healthy relationship that I’m watching each episode with a smile stucked on my face.

I’m also enjoying the OST a lot and the fact that there’s this particular song that it’s so meaningful throughout the whole story.

I can’t wait to see how it will continue… but for sure this couple is already one of my favorite.

***

OKAY, I JUST FINISHED IT. AND I ALREADY MISS IT SO BAD.
This is the cutest drama I’ve ever watched. For real. Please, PLEASE, go watch it, now. It will bring you happiness. I promise.
It’s a rare gem. The cast, the production, the story, the songs… everything is beyond perfection.
I really hope to see OhmNanon together again, cause they’re a once in a lifetime duo, they literally are the best couple I’ve ever seen.

THANK YOU FOR MAKING SUCH A BEAUTIFUL WORK.

Leia Mais

shakespeare is quaking

let’s start from the beginning, in 2020 when the unofficial trailer of this series revealed i was genuinely excited. i thought to myself, finally we see something different from the usual gmmtv line up. i was even more excited to see ohm and nanon in the same screen. they are genuinely a pair of incredible actors who have a lot of potential in the acting industry. so i wasn’t disappointed with them because i was able to comprehend their characters actions and emotions (when they were beneficial to their story). they were given a very bland teleplay, after episodes four-five there was no development to the story. instead of continuing the “wai and our friend group being against our relationship” arc they should’ve resurfaced the conflict between their parents. whatever obstacle pat and pran encountered it was never followed through it was either forgotten and executed horribly. for example, episode six-eight, the major conflict for three episodes was pat and pran’s friend group and faculty rivalry. the only purpose of these characters were to bring some “angst” and for viewers to make inconclusive predictions about which friend is or is not going to betray them. another example is pat being shot and then being charged, it was dumbest filler drama i’ve witnessed in a while, im sorry but it just shows the lack of creativity that went into the last episodes leading to the finale. the conflict they should’ve focused on was literally introduced in the first episode, the world surrounding patpran revolved around the parents “rivalry” after episode five the remaining episodes before the three-two finale episodes should’ve followed patpran grappling with the conflict. this would lead to the story putting its characters at their most hopeless point and showing them beginning to solve the conflict and feel hope again. i was honestly hoping to see more background on the parents, they wasted a lot footage on unnecessary montages and conversations. when the reasoning behind the parents' “rivalry” came into light. that was the worst thing they did in this series, telling the audience something we already know. Instead of telling me, show me why i should be rooting or redeeming this character. it just didn’t really meet the expectations i had (plot wise) for this series, i didn’t feel that closure was presented.

Leia Mais