O Ún1co (2024)

What it's actually like to fall in love

"I like you so much, it's like standing at the edge of an abyss or walking on thin ice"

People have expressed their disappointment with the underwhelming ending, citing that "nothing happens" and that the show "fails to deliver" on its expectations as a BL series. However, as someone who typically avoids this genre due to the community and the fanservice often associated with it, I can confidently say that this is genuine queer media.

With all the complexities of queerness, and even the added dynamic of being stepbrothers, I empathize with Sheng Wang's perspective. Unlike the typical BL series where characters conveniently fall in love regardless of societal norms, this portrayal is far from normal or easily accepted in today’s world.

People need to understand that in a series like this, and with a director who prioritizes the subtle nuances of queer experiences, a slow-burn narrative is something to be expected. Personally, I appreciated it, and it further deepened my understanding of the challenges of being queer, something I relate to on a personal level.

Leia Mais

Starts out strong. Loses momentum at the end

Other reviews have captured the important points which, summarizing, are that this is a great slow burn story but marred by an unsatisfying ending. However, in addition to all the points other reviewers have made, I'd like to add two. First, there is an unusually high level of sophistication in emotional expression and carefully paced story telling in the first 7-8 episodes. Excellent attention to detail regarding lighting, interiors, props, costuming, etc. Liu Dong Qin / Eric Zay as Sheng Wang did a great job with eye/facial expressions; I could read every thought without a single word/inner monologue. Second, while the first 7-8 episodes are really fantastic, episodes 9-11 have a variety of confusing / clumsy edits that make you wonder if the editor/director/show runner were out sick, and the B team stepped in. Episode 12 seems to return to the same consistent pace/tone, but delivering an unsatisfying ending. This could have been the best BL ever. A real pity that so much excellent work gets thrown away in the last few episodes. A sequel to wrap up the storylines would help.

Leia Mais

The Best BL Series of 2024

In my opinion, this is the best BL series of 2024, it’s a beautifully crafted series that stands out for its heartfelt storytelling and emotional depth. It masterfully blends the slow-burn romance genre with complex character development, allowing the relationship between the leads to unfold naturally and meaningfully.

The chemistry between the leads is undeniable. Both Sheng Wang and Jiang Tian deliver heartfelt performances that convey vulnerability, longing, and hope.

Visually, the cinematography is stunning, as usual making Taiwan series stand out, especially in genres like BL dramas and romantic storytelling. Taiwan series often excel in visual storytelling by using cinematography as a tool to elevate the emotional and narrative experience. The soundtrack complements the series perfectly, heightening emotional scenes without overpowering them.

One of the highlights of The On1y One is its ability to explore themes of love, longing, and self-discovery in a mature and thoughtful way. The slow-burn approach might not appeal to everyone, but for those who appreciate a more nuanced and subtle unfolding of romance, it’s incredibly satisfying.

The ending, while bittersweet, leaves a lasting impression. It provides enough closure while still leaving room for viewers to reflect and imagine what the future holds for the characters. The story may end, but its impact lingers long after the final episode.

Overall, The On1y One isn’t just about romance—it’s about connection, growth, and the quiet, meaningful moments that define our relationships.

Leia Mais

A Powerful Exploration of Growth and Healing

"The Only One" is a standout BL series of 2024 that transcends its "enemy to lovers" trope to deliver an emotional exploration of personal growth, trauma, and the transformative power of love. Through the forced bond of stepbrothers, Sheng Wang and Jiang Tian embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing, offering a compelling narrative that echoes long after the credits roll.

The series excels in its portrayal of character development. Sheng Wang and Jiang Tian's complex relationship is anchored by Liu Dong Qin and Benjamin Tsang's exceptional performances. Their nuanced acting brings to life the characters' inner turmoil, making their journey of healing all the more relatable. The series skillfully explores the impact of past trauma on present-day relationships, showcasing how even the most seemingly insurmountable obstacles can be overcome with love and support.

Beyond its strong characters and performances, "The Only One" boasts impressive cinematography and direction that enhance the storytelling. The series' visual aesthetic complements the emotional depth of the narrative, creating a truly immersive viewing experience.

In conclusion, "The Only One" is a must-watch for fans of BL dramas seeking a series that goes beyond surface-level romance. Its exploration of personal growth, trauma, and the power of love is both thought-provoking and heartwarming. With exceptional performances, a compelling narrative, and stunning visuals, "The Only One" is a standout series that deserves recognition as one of the best BL dramas of 2024.

Leia Mais

Love is Beautiful and Messy but worth it!!!

Sheng Wang and Jiang Tian did a COMMENDABLE job !!! OH MY GOD.....the chemistry , the touches , the stares, the covert glances, the slow burning and sizzling overflowing emotions, everything was just perfect. I felt the actors did justice to the characters.... I do not want to say much but urge you to go and watch it please. This is how characters should be developed , the relationship stared because forced proximity and situation, where they went from strangers to special someone for each other.

The ending is perfect and it made me hungry for season 2. Please we need to meet them again and see how the love blooms between them.

Leia Mais

WE NEED SEASON 2 OF THIS MASTERPIECE

Please give us a season 2!!!! Pleaseeee I need it for my soul. ❤️ Also, all viewers please remember to like this show on Netflix so they know the audience loved the series and want season 2.
The Review:
The cinematography and story was so good!!!
The acting was next level. I cried, I felt the tention, I felt the anger, I felt the happiness, I felt the love between the characters.
This is 100% the best acting I have seen in any series this year. Both Liu and Benjamin are just perfectly matched visually and they have insane chemistry. It's impossible not to root for their characters... the romance is more than just surface level.... you see how much they care for each other and how they complete each other. It's a beautiful love story.
I must add Andy Chen who plays Gao Tian is super charming. He's so cute and charismatic.
Please season 2... PLEASE!!!!!

Leia Mais

another comfort series!

even though it seems like this is an open-ending series, but i really love everything in it! a lot of details worth the time! because i can rewatch this series over and over again and find more details that could elaborate to the story line more. i have no complaint at all since i know there might be another series coming very soon! definitely waiting for jiang tian's background and how their relationship will develop in the future.

one of the reason why i like this series so much is because how involved the studying plot. i mean, i do need the motivation to study. and by this, i'm very motivated to study because i see how hardworking they are for their grades.

another reason is their acting. especially for ben, i love the facial expressions! i love to interpret my own thinking to what is he going through based on how he expresses the character.

maybe the last reasons: ost and another small details. who knows the ost would have so much impact on the series and me myself?? i could never be happy while listening to the ost tho. for the small details, i'm currently rewatching the whole series and i'm at eps 11. i didn't really pay attention to how they address each other. but now i guess i need to rewatch again and see how it's different. from xiaowang and gege.

oh there might be some details that are not explained in this series. but it isn't that crucial. but if they actually elaborate more, i think it will be more complete and clear.

Leia Mais

Story with an amazing storyline of 2024

I am absolutely in love with this series. I'll share the things that kept me hooked up till the end. I really hate rushed storylines or too slow story too, for me this story have an absolute balance it's not too rushed to make them fall in love immediately or too slow that the characters doesn't come close till the end of the series. Another thing about the story is the way the dialogues deliver their emotions especially in a poetic manner, the deep meanings attached is my favourite. As for acting, I don't think kissing or being close define chemistry, it's way more than that in BL for me and the actor had the capability to show the chemistry even without being close, especially their eyes the love, pain, fear were all in their eyes it was so evident. The actors did an absolute fabulous job, the cast not just main but also the support actors are well suited for their parts, all are doing an amazing job. The show delivering not just love but complications of age, family, friends all in one, that so, so beautifully that I can't wait for the season 2. I am literally ready to beg on my knees for it.....??‍♀️

Leia Mais

left my heart in a state of colossal turmoil

I'm writing this after shreding a mug ( lets be real a liter) of tears or something. I hadn't even finished the series when the tears kicked in. Personally I'm not AT ALL someone who likes to cry or people who cry, but the ending....just. broke. me.
This series was.......in more than just a few ways.....of retreat for me. The first few minutes of me, right after watching the last episode, was distraught. Usually I don't watch dramas that are still in the phase of being aired, due to the uncertainty of the endings, but I just had a feeling back then....that this would be great. And honestly it was, until the last 12 mins of ep 12.
This series................it's got that essence to it which says: Those transient years of teenage are like the golden leaves of fall. It's a series which lets you read into the tinest interactions between the leads, defying the reality (in the story) and keep hoping that it's gonna be possible, wishing that those hugs, lingering touches, stolen glances turn out to be something more than just brotherly love.
In the 11 eps, Jiang Tian and Sheng Wang slowly learn about eachother, through ups and downs, the darkess of their pasts, and slowly become eachother's safe place. *giggles* From the very first day the chemistry between them was very much something that only a chemistry-blind, low eq dumbo would not be able to see. The tranquility of the series was so satisfying, somehow it makes you fall in love with the process of falling in love as a 17 year old when you feel like you can be at the top of the world. The slow and steady unraveling of the 'emmotionally fort'-ed Tian and the 'love deprived' Wang, gets you soo deep into the story that you don't even realise before you start noticing every minor detail, every small act, looking into the meaning. Grinning and screaming at the screen.
The cinematography, was very very very beautifully placed. The steadiness and the stillness so crystally placed. Changing weathers with changing feelings. Beautiful. Growing emotions with growing times.
The last 12 mins though, killed me. Big brother, broken bracelets, intentional failing to change classes, and distancing.
In many ways the series has left open an option for a season two and I would watch it again even breaks my heart.

Leia Mais

A Realistic Depiction of Teenage Romance & Relationships

The human heart is a stormy place, and when paired with thought, it becomes even more tumultuous. Love isn’t logical—it’s a force that heals, torments, and binds, sometimes all at once.

When mixed with thought, love can often feel like madness.

Adapted from the novel Mou Mou by Mu Su Li, the Taiwanese BL The On1y One defies expectations while exploring love amidst emotional turmoil. Starring Liu Dong Qin as the studious and friendly Sheng Wang and Benjamin Tsang as the reserved loner Jiang Tian, the series follows two boys with their own personal traumas who are brought together as unexpected brothers.

I’ve started this review a thousand times—not because I’m sad, though I am, but because The On1y One gave us so much to think about and feel.

Read the complete article here-

https://the-bl-xpress.com/2024/10/03/the-on1y-one-series-review-ep-3-to-12/

Leia Mais