I'm astounded by how good this version is. It had been years since the arrival of the versions I loved that I thought this would simply be another uninspiring regurgitation of one of the most well-known stories in dramaland. But F4 Thailand provides a uniquely compelling, modern adaptation; making it a worthy addition to the world of Hana Yori Dango.

Before I go further, I wanted to mention that I adored Meteor Garden (2001) and Boys Over Flowers (2009) and it was to the point of obsession for both at the time I watched each. But looking back now objectively for the latter, I will admit it was a bad rendition. Having said that, I am certain that the praises for F4 Thailand currently are warranted that even when we look back 10 years from now, we'd feel the same way.

The heroine in this version, Gorya, is my favorite. Her introduction as an ordinary student on scholarship at an elite school otherwise attended by wealthy students convinced me, especially because of how pragmatic she sounds in her assessment of her environment. With disillusionment about the school after having learned the true nature of the students, with being well aware of her standing within this crowd and her purpose in attending the school, she had resolved to put her head down and focus on graduating without incident. But, of course, fate had other plans for her and so she ends up standing up to the most powerful person in school, Thyme, despite knowing full well the hell she'd face getting on that collision course with him, all because she does not have the heart to disregard a friend in trouble. She is courageous not because she is fearless but because she faces Thyme in spite of her fears. That makes her a rock star in my book; an ordinary girl who is extraordinary. That iconic kick to the chest WAS SO SATISFYING.

That leads me to Thyme. I will always be Team Thyme. This boy is such a brat but he's our lovable idiot. I LOVED how Gorya just renders him speechless on multiple occasions. We come to learn that he is a product of the upbringing by a mother who is less of a mother and more of a ruthless businesswoman molding Thyme to be just like her in order to run the family empire one day. Needless to say he changes to become a better person after meeting Gorya. He often looks incongruous in Gorya's world and yet is the perfect match for her. I enjoyed their bickering but it was the subtle, sweet moments between them that were so moving and dear to my heart (midnight birthday and zoo dates come to mind).

I was truly charmed by this group of F4. I'm at that age where I don't easily go crazy over hot guys but there is merit in all the girls fawning over their hotness here. I found them cool and hot and stylish that it is totally believable that they are the most popular guys in school. Aside from keeping with that aspect of the original, I thought the F4 boys are portrayed as an ensemble cast here compared to other versions. I mean, Thyme and Ren's characters hold significant roles being the main and second leads respectively, so it's no surprise that they get a lot of screen time. My reference here is more toward Kavin and MJ. They didn't feel like the 3rd and 4th members. They are vital to the story and so supportive of our leads and just plain awesome and I was happy to see them featured just as much as others.

As one of many who is extremely familiar with the original story, some of the main dramatic plot points could have turned predictable, as if I would need to patiently wait to pass so I could watch the "good" parts; in particular, in connection to the villains in the story, like the kidnapper. Often these tropes feel as if they were there to serve the advancement of the main characters, and the "villains" would then be disregarded or forgotten at the end of their time. But instead, I was at the edge of my seat here due to the gripping suspense felt throughout, thanks to the wonderful directing and editing, music and acting. Whenever there is a focus on the side characters, it transported me to their world. I paid attention. I listened to what they had to say. I did not have the urge to skip to move forward to the main characters. Everyone had a role to play and with purpose and each of their message is clearly conveyed. I particularly enjoyed Kavin and Talay's arcs. As an aside, I do want to note that I wasn't a fan of Lita, as I've never been a fan of this character no matter how good she is as a person as I've always been a steadfast supporter of our One True Pairing.

In terms of production, this team deserves just as much praise as the cast. I would consider the production team highly intelligent. They knew exactly what they are offering to us. Every detail is carefully crafted and marvelously executed. If you witnessed something on screen, even subtleties, it is because they wanted us to notice. I felt they are effective in influencing you; clever in how they use social media to contribute to the story without taking away the original feels. They pay homage to the original premise while modernizing it, as well as incorporate Thai cultural aspects into the story and all of this is seamlessly executed for such great entertainment for the viewers.

I'll end with this: if you really think about it, you have to admit that as much as we all love it, the premise of Hana Yori Dango is pretty superficial, and at times ridiculous. But somehow, F4 Thailand manages to paint this world in realism, with a lot of heart, through a smart script, amazing directing, evocative music, thoughtful characterization, and a talented young cast. I don't think any other version will ever top this.