#the boyfriend episodes 8 review

[afabstract]

The Boyfriend Episodes 7, 8 Review

A new arrival shakes up the dynamics on "The Boyfriend," sparking fresh drama and unexpected connections.

Follow us on Twitter | Instagram Well, well, well… the Chef on “The Boyfriend” is officially the most popular participant on the Netflix show so far! Episode 6 ended with a new member called Ikuo joining the dating reality series, so there’s quite some scope for fresh surprises. The guest panel of “The Boyfriend” is completely invested in all the drama going down in the beach house between the…

[fuddbueckers]

1. Kayla live we all know all the crumbs from that live fr

2. Azzi being at Paige’s family party thing on the Fourth of July

3. Mystics game crumbs and aces vs liberty game crumbs.

4. Kk dabbing up Paige for bagging a baddie fr

5. The live azzi says “better not” when Amari said sm gonna take Paige to breakfast

6. All bench moments from Pazzi especially when Paige said “wife” and azzi and ice were smiling/laughing.

7. I forget who’s live but the one where kk, Jana, Ayanna, azzi did a crumble review. From that live we got Paige checking out azzi twice and when everyone asked azzi what was wrong she didn’t answer until Paige asked what was wrong.

8. THE CRUISE

9. ice’s live(the live of all lives) thank u ice

10. The way they have to be two inches away from each other everywhere

11. The tennis games from over the summer. AZZI RESTING HER HEAD ON PAIGE. then Paige putting her hand on azzi’s face. To much happened during that time.

12. “She’s said she’s gonna leave me” azzi’s snap story from years ago

13. The slam interview.

14. Paige calling azzi a cheater for picking her dog over her in a overtime interview

15. Their hug after winning for team USA years ago

16. Paige crying talking about azzi’s acl tear in the slam interview

17. Paige STARING at azzi from like across the court at first night(I think it was the 2023 first night)

17. “She’s LIKE my bestfriend” - Paige beuckers

19. Matching Halloween costumes last year and the vid from the Halloween party of Paige’s arm being around azzi like shoulder

20. EVERY SINGLE COMMENT THAT PAIGE HAS COMMENTED UNDER AZZIS POSTS especially her newer posts

21. The interview at the concert they went to and they were asked Netflix and chill or movie theater. THEIR ANSWERS

22. Kk liking the tiktok post saying “eyes don’t lie”and it’s azzi literally having heart eyes for Paige

23. Dorks liking a tiktok of them at a concert and the caption being sm like “ I like to think she turned to azzi”

24. Aubrey following a pazzi based account

25. Azzi favoring a pazzi tiktok

26. Paige favoriting a edit of her that literally used the clip of Paige and azzi from ices live.

27. Ice reading a comment out loud that said sm like “ice only goes live when she knows Paige and azzi Arent around.” Like girl why would u read that out loud

28. “Azzi and nika with their boyfriends.” PAIGE, KK, AND ICES reactions to that comment😭

28. Jose saying “y’all know where Paige and azzi r” on Kayla’s live

29. Jose’s live, I’m pretty sure he read the comment that said “ Paige is with her bf” and then him and his gf started laughing

30. Paige and azzi crushin over each other during the whole interview on sues podcast thing

31. Paige saying ice is banned from lives(wonder why🤔)

That’s all I will share ig but there’s sm more as we all know

31 is crazy😭 but the crumbl review live was kk’s live lol and the overtime episode where azzi called p cheater is my fav and now on talks about it fr

[bookscandlesnbts]

The Boyfriend Shot

Here is the Boyfriend Shot that is the subject of this post. I found this moment not only really cute but also really telling because Jimin could have elaborated on this “Boyfriend Shot” in 100 different directions if he wanted to, but he chose to leave it plain and simple. This is the Boyfriend Shot of Jungkook where the subject of “Who” (see what I did there 😉? I’m not clever okay, but I tried) is the photographer himself.

See, Jimin could have swooned that JK was Army’s boyfriend saying that he took it for Army and made it about the fandom. Or he could have implied it going in a hetero direction except he didn’t. He took the photo while sitting across from his boyfriend that he was on a trip with for himself because he definitely saved that photo on his phone. Jimin was boasting here. Peacocking. Saying this is my boyfriend I took the boyfriend shot. He’s with me and he’s my boyfriend so that’s what this photo is. And I love it. Jimin isn’t a big gesture guy as we usually know. One of the things I’ve loved about AYS is the moments where he is. Where he lets his guard down. Where he tells us things.

Similarly, reminds me of Jimin lying on the floor spread eagle saying that if you watch this show with Jungkook this is exactly how he is at home. That’s the key here folks. He deliberately says with Jungkook. He could have just played it off that he likes to lie around at home anywhere and everywhere but he needed to be clear and remind us that this is really how he acts at home because Jungkook is there too. And I’m not saying that they definitely live together but I am saying that he considers Jungkook part of his home.

Main takeaway is that I love seeing Jimin spill the tea. I love it when he tells us things and lets us in because he definitely is more guarded. I mean he wouldn’t even tell us his whiskey story on the show. 😅 but Jimin is a storyteller when he wants to be, and I loved seeing glimpses of those honest truths on the show. The last episode of Sapporo was my favorite episode of the Sapporo trip by far and I’ve already watched it three times.

Lastly, if anyone is curious, my controversial ranking of the episodes:

2>4>8>1>5>7>6>3

Can’t wait for the behinds!!! I was also thinking that remember when we kept seeing the behinds of each location decrease by a minute during their reviews? I don’t think they actually did! And maybe that’s why it went behind a paywall. I’m thrilled they are behind a paywall even if nothing too crazy happens. I wish more than anything we could gatekeep it from vile people. I really think JK knows about *them* ya’ll. I really do 🤫

[ros3ybabe]

Daily Check-in: April 4, 2024 🎀

What a good day! I swear I hadn't had a day so good in so long, but this day was absolutely amazing!

🩷 What I Accomplished Today:

reviewed chapters 8 and 9 of Spanish on Busuu

Studied my Spanish flashcards 1x all the way through

listened to three podcast episodes in spanish

read a chapter of Deep Work, the last chapter of Atomic Habits, and a section from 101 Essays to Change The Way You Think

discovered and listened to "A Better You" podcast by Fernanada Raamirez

Went to my make up chemistry lab

took a make up psyc quiz

met with my psych doctor

had a therapy session

had a meeting with the director of the Dietetic program for my university

filled out an application to become an SI instructor (just not to turn it in to the head SI guy now)

Caught up on my chemistry notes

opened a savings account for my university

searched for nearby places to rent/live (I'm moving out soon, sometime this year)

🩷 What Went Good Today:

Got encouraged to add a 2nd major in Finance

Created a list/schedule of classes for next semester that I'm really excited about

learned about other on-campus job opportunities in case SI doesn't work out

felt confident about my psyc quiz after I took it

the director of the Dietetic program was the absolute sweetest and most helpful, and I am so glad I met with her because she answered all of my questions and gave me some great encouragement

finished my chem lab very quickly

didn't need extra money to open a savings account so a savings account got opened

🩷 What Could Have Gone Better:

I felt like I bugged my dad a lot, but I was just so excited to tell him how good everything was going

Need to re evaluate how much I can realistically save per paycheck at the moment for my housing situation AND the college savings account

got a bit emotional with my boyfriend over some past stuff

did not eat the best or the healthiest

psych doc ordered an EKG because she is concerned that I may have an arrhythmia (had an EKG done in the past for the same reason, but was told it was because of my exercise habits at the time ~4 years ago) and having an arrhythmia will limit the mental health medication I am able to take

Overall, not a bad day whatsoever! I was in a really good mood all day because of how awesome everything was and I'm super grateful that I was able to have such a good day!

til next time lovelies 🩷

[my-rose-tinted-glasses]

I'm watching too much stuff. And things are not slowing down with all the things coming in September. So I'm gonna try and keep this short. As much as that's possible given the amount of shows.

QL - Currently Watching

🇹🇭 4 Minutes [6/8] - Finally some answers. I haven't read all the theories floating around about this last episode and what it means, but I'm firmly on the side of, there is another alternative timeline, probably from when Tyme is dying at the start of the show, and also very much in agreement with everything @lurkingshan wrote here that these are just imagined do-overs and nothing will actually change in the real world. Which would be my preferred way.

🇹🇭 Addicted Heroin [2/10] - Haven't watched this weeks episode yet. My review for the first two is here.

🇹🇼 First Note of Love [4/12] - I like them a lot. And I like the pacing of this. I love the intro song. But with a second couple being introduced I think I'm gonna get frustrated having to wait a week for a 20 minute episode. I felt that way a lot during Kiseki.

🇯🇵 I Hear the Sunspot [10/12] - I am annoyed.

🇹🇭 I Saw You In My Dream [7/12] - May the boyfriend era commence. I am enjoying this one. I'm guessing we still have a bit of angst coming and I'm hoping for a good explanation for the dreams.

🇯🇵 Mitsuya Sensei no Keikakutekina Ezuke [6/7] - Just such an incredible show. This week brought the pain and I'm still unwell. As if Frito getting sick wasn't heart breaking enough, that ending left me in tears. I cannot believe we only have one episode left. I am not ready to say goodbye to the three of them.

🇹🇭 Monster Next Door [6/12] - My favourite thing about this is definitely Big. His presence on screen is great. But I'm not fully connecting yet for some reason.

🇹🇭 Peaceful Property [1/10] - It's a lot of fun. Yeah, I know it's not a bl. But it's bl adjacent so it goes here. Also in my head it's gonna be a bl no matter what. Possibly even with a gl side couple. The mind is a powerful thing.

🇯🇵Sugar Dog Life [4/10] - I love Isumi. I really liked that they didn't drag the girl storyline and it served it's purpose. Isumi is now very much aware of it's feelings. I'm looking forward to the date episode.

🇯🇵 Takara No Vidro [9/11] - Takara, my love. This boy has my whole heart. I can't believe I'll have to say goodbye to then tomorrow. I'm bracing for part pain, part happy. Please Japan don't let me down.

🇹🇭 The Loyal Pin [1/16] - I'm waiting to binge.

🇹🇼 The On1y One [4/10] - This show will hurt and I will love every second of it. I really like the look of this show and how we get those little insights into Jiang at the end of the episode. The actors are doing great and I specially love Benjamin Tsang facial expressions. I'm curious to see these two together and how their dynamic will work considering their circumstances. Also, always happy to see the revolving door of cameos Taiwan always grace us with.

🇯🇵Twilight Out of Focus - It's so beautiful. I'm enjoying that we get different couples even if sometimes it feels like we could have more time with them. I like Rei/Shion a lot, but I do miss Mao and Hisashi. 🇹🇭 The Trainee [10/12] - Just to get it out if the way, the Bamhee/Judy storyline was definitely the right call and @lurkingshan was right all along. Also the way the office came together was delightful and it's great to see Pah getting everyone together and once again being the best friend ever. Now. THE OFFICE FLIRTING!!! I was losing my mind giggling like an idiot. I love them. It's pretty obvious at this point that it's mutual and of course Ryan will need to actually be told that, but I still think Jane will wait until the internship is over before confessing or starting anything official. I can't wait to watch all the interns reaction next week. I love it here.

QL - Finished

🇯🇵 Ayaka is in Love with Hiroko! - I'm disappointed in this one. It started off so strong but by the end it lost me. I love Hiroko but I feel like they betrayed the character. And that ending with the kiss in the office was ridiculous. Actually most of the end was weird in the way that it seemed to contradict what came before. I like that they finally got together but it didn't feel as good as it could've.

🇹🇭 Century of Love - Started of great and imo fell apart by the end. I don't think it was consistent all the way through and the mythology was all over the place. Daou did an amazing job though. Also Ju is one of the greatest female characters of the year.

🇯🇵 Cosmetic Playlover - Pretty show. Final thoughts here.

🇹🇭 Knock Knock, Boys! - Probably the biggest surprise of the year for me. It's great. I like the development of both couples. Even if near the end I got a tiny bit annoyed with Peak, I really liked the conclusion of it all. Latte is a great character and the very rare slut unjudged by the narrative.

🇹🇭🇨🇳 Meet You At the Blossom - Look it's great that we got a chinese bl, but this was not it for me. Let's hope this one helps get others made though.

🇹🇭Love Sea - It was fine. I enjoyed Mut but in general I just never connected to this show. And Muk annoyed me to no end. I was so happy to see Aya again and now I just wanna forget that she was ever in this and simply remember her as Yiwa.

🇹🇭 SunsetxVibes - I don't even have words. I don't know if it was my lack of attention or if it never actually made sense but I never really got what the mythology was all about apart from inspiring a truly horrendous looking necklace. I was slogging though this one and I guess the finale was fine.

🇹🇭 This Love Doesn't Have Long Beans - The sides were great, their chemistry was on point. I really wanna see them again. The mains were my favourite thing about Pit Babe but I just didn't like them here.

🇹🇭 The Rebound - I just have to accept that MeenPing will always have bad scripts. They are pretty together but this was a mess.

Dropped

🇹🇭My Love Mix-Up!

Rose Watches OJBL

Pornographer: Spring Life | Playback | Continued Spring Life Finally finished the novelist. Final thoughts.

A LOT of stuff coming this month so if you haven't checked it out, here is the post with all announced upcoming qls for September with a couple of updates that I made today.

As usual my ask box is open. Have a wonderful week💜

[starcrossed591]

KDrama Year in Review 2024

Only a few KDramas took up residence in my unconscious (looking at you, When the Phone Rings) this year, but looking back, there were a good number that I found pretty solid overall and looked forward to watching every week! I’ve been pretty flexible about genre this year, but since I was getting most of my angst from CDramaland (CDrama Year in Review forthcoming), I tended towards KDramas on the lighter and/or otherwise more restrained side. There’s some flotsam and jetsam to wade through first, but here we go:

Disclaimer: Rankings based on my personal preference, not objective quality

15) Romance in the House (dnf)—Did not even remember I watched this. The premise was meh, the deadbeat dad was unlikeable, and it seemed like they wanted me to root for him to win the mom back (no thank you). Some of the actors were doing their darndest to push through, but it did not work for me at all. Dropped.

14) Marriage Impossible (dnf)—I like the two lead actors, especially Moon Sang Min (I really liked him in Under the Queen’s Umbrella), and they had pretty good chemistry, but they were underserved by the weakness of the script. Dropped before they even got together (alas, the gifs of their first kiss looked like great fun).

13) Cinderella at 2am (dnf)—Interesting first two episodes in which the FL takes the money of chaebol boyfriend’s rich mother in order to break up with him, but then lost all momentum from there. Another miss from Moon Sang Min. Pick better scripts, buddy! Dropped.

12) Love Your Enemy—This rom com is fine I guess? I dropped after about six episodes because there’s too much else on my watch list. The actors playing the two leads in the high school flashbacks were unfortunately much more compelling than the ML and FL as adults, which leaves the whole thing feeling unbalanced. I don’t know if it’s the actors or the script, but this one just did not land for me. Dropped.

11) Serendipity’s Embrace—Finished this mostly inoffensive rom com mostly out of fondness for Kim So Hyun and because nothing else was airing that I wanted to watch. Did not actually like that much, do not recommend unless you don’t have much else to do.

10) Captivating the King—Was very obsessed with this sageuk for the first half. Cross dressing FL out for revenge? Vengeful, unhinged (bisexual) king? Yes please! However, they lost me when the FL who was supposed to be Very Smart kept acting Very Dumb, so I got distracted and never came back to it. I do still adore Cho Jung Seok and it was fun seeing him play a darker role after most recently seeing him in Hospital Playlist, but come on! If you want me to believe your FL is a strategic genius, she has to act like one or have a very good reason why she’s not! Dropped.

9) Love Next Door—Hyped up way too much; totally understand why so many people dropped. Mostly finished out of goodwill for Jung Hae In and Jung So Min, both of whom I adore, and a much more magnetic secondary couple. Was ultimately a mid-tier rom com/family drama, though I probably would have liked it better if my expectations hadn’t been so high. Would still recommend if you have fondness for any of the actors, though.  

OKAY now time for dramas I actually (mostly) liked!

8) Marry My Husband—Very much enjoyed Park Min Young, the rom com queen, in her transmigration revenge era. I liked it more when the SFL and SML were a sort of everyday awful that still managed to be soul sucking before it all took a hard turn into makjang territory, but still really enjoyable overall. I'm also still struck by the scene in which the FL breaks down after her (fake) bestie betrays her for a second time by sleeping with her husband. The feeling of betrayal she felt, even when she basically knew it was coming, was not actually lessened by that foreknowledge, perhaps because of the forlorn hope that maybe her friend *wouldn't* betray her this time around.

7) Queen of Tears—Kim Ji-won and Kim So Hyun were both fantastic in this much anticipated drama, and watching their relationship develop from married couple fully at odds with each other to ride or die partners was excellent. The ensemble cast also featured many of my favorite secondary characters of the year, including himbo brother and devoted daddy played to perfection by Kwak Dong Yeon and unhinged, excon, serial divorcee aunt played by Kim Jung Nan! Unfortunately, there was a little too much plot bloat and some unearned plot twists (amnesia, anyone?) and the episodes were all just too long (Writer Park Ji Eun really, really needs an editor, but I expect no one could tell her No after the success of CLOY). Still a fun ride overall, though!  

6) Tell Me that You Love Me—(Started airing in 2023 but ended in 2024 and wasn’t available to stream in my area until 2024, so I’m counting it!) This quiet, slice of life romance was a very comforting watch for me. I found Mo Eun (Shin Hyun Been) a restful character to watch as she tried to figure out her life while trying to make it as a working actress while also falling in love with Cha Jin Woo, an artist who is also deaf. YMMV re: the ending (and I hear the JDrama it’s based on may be a bit better), but if you want a drama that’s soothing while still grounded, I recommend this one.     

5) My Sweet Mobster—Had no expectations for this drama—in fact, I saw the descriptions and promo material and thought it would be a hard pass for me—but then ended up completely charmed by this goofy rom com that nonetheless took recidivism and the real challenges faced by excons to integrate into society after serving their time very seriously. Honestly, worth checking out just for Uhm Tae Goo as swoon worthy, deep-voiced, former mob boss Seo Ji Hwan—easily my favorite new-to-me actor of the year.   

4) No Gain No Love—Again, I had no expectations for this rom com, but then ended up totally sucked in by Shin Min-A’s performance as Son Hae-Young, a successful career woman who has reached her ceiling promotion-wise at work solely because she is unmarried. Her insistence on not suffering losses even in relationships and her resulting conviction that that insistence made her unlikely to find a partner also struck a chord. My mileage varies with Kim Young Dae, but his turn as the convenience store clerk she convinces to fake-marry her was charming. Rom com tropes follow, some with more success than other, but the pointed critique of the gendered double standard many of the characters face made this one really land for me. Bonus points for Hae-young’s relationship with her two foster sisters, the only two of the many children her mom fostered to stick around.

3) The Midnight Romance at Hagwon—I know a lot of people had high expectations for this one and then dropped it when it wasn’t what they expected, but it ended up being a highlight of the year for me. I came for Wi Ha Joon in a romance, and stayed for the unexpectedly earnest commentary on what education is actually for, especially when it has turned into teaching children how best to win at taking a test. When the first big fight between the FL and ML was a yelling match about a pedagogical disagreement on the best way to teach literature, I was a goner. The thought of a former student showing back up in my life to seduce me at my place of work irl gives me hives, but I honestly loved this drama so much. Highly, highly recommend.

2) When the Phone Rings—I know I’m being premature by putting this drama so high on my list when it hasn’t yet concluded, but I CAN’T HELP IT, SUE ME. I’m so obsessed with this drama, it has taken over my dreams. Hong Hee Joo and Baek Sa-eon’s messy relationship is so, so fun, and I’m rooting for them so much. I do sometimes see the twists coming in this makjang thriller romance, but am still surprised often enough to keep me on my toes. Also, more red flag heroes please, Baek Sa-eon is so so fun when he’s being little extra unhinged.

1) Lovely Runner—Im Sol and Ryu Sun Jae had my whole heart for the entirety of this drama’s run. This is another one where the premise did not originally appeal to me—Im Sol going back in time to save her idol from dying is not at all sexy to me—but it’s another one where it took so many twists and turns that a non-spoiler description just can’t do it justice. Sol and Sun Jae had such good chemistry and were so ride or die for each other. I honestly loved that (spoiler) you go in thinking that Im Sol’s love for Sun Jae, just to learn that Sun Jae fell for her both first and much, much harder. Im Sol’s time travel shenanigans were never totally explained, but I’m just fine leaving it all a little timey wimey because I loved the journey so much.

Favorite Female Character: Look, I love a KDrama Lost Girl (tm), so it’s gotta be Hong Hee Joo (Chae Soo Bin) from When the Phone Rings for me. I love the balance between (spoilers) how adrift she feels in her personal life with how unhinged she can get when making calls with the mask of 406. I also love her artful use of sign language, especially when she deploys it specifically because she knows the person she’s talking to won’t understand her.

Favorite Male Character: If I was in my green flag era it would be Sun Jae, but since I’m in my red flag era, it’s absolutely Baek Sa-eon (Yoo Yeon Seok) from When the Phone Rings. He’s been unhealthily obsessed with Hee Joo for 20 years, and I love that for him. Also, I adored YYS in both Mr. Sunshine and Hospital Playlist, so seeing him play a character here somehow halfway between his polar opposite roles in those dramas is a real treat.

Favorite Secondary Female Character: I adored Nam Cheong Mi (So Joo Yeon) as the SFL in Midnight Romance in Hagwon. She started out *totally* out there in her quest to be hired as a lecturer at the elite hagwon for which the drama is named, and I empathized her total dedication to being a fantastic teacher that became more and more apparent as the drama went on. I also appreciated her growing friendship with FL Hye Jin. She refused to let herself be used by others as Hye Jin’s rival, even when it would have been really easy to do so for her own gain.

Favorite Secondary Male Character: A tie here for Baek In Hyuk (Lee Seung Hyub) as Sun Jae’s bestie and eternal wingman and SML Kim Tae Seong (Song Geon Hee), both from Lovely Runner. The delightful ensemble cast is part of what made this drama so strong, and the scene where these two were on screen with Sun Jae were some of the funniest. I also really, really liked Tae Seong’s unexpected friendship/relationship with Im Sol in each variation of the timeline, especially since he was the first person to consistently recognize future Sol as distinct from past Sol.

Favorite Ship (runner up): Look, I know I should just choose one couple, but it’s my list so I make the rules, and I’m so obsessed with Hee Joo and Sa-eon right now that I have to give them their own slot.

Favorite Ship: Sun Jae and Im Sol’s (in Lovely Runner) determination to protect the other even at the cost of their own lives takes the cake here for me. I also loved seeing Sun Jae recognize Im Sol’s feelings for him multiple times across different possible timelines, and always, always choose her. I was rooting for them so hard and they made my heart flutter so many times across so many timelines that it has to be them.

Favorite Secondary Ship: I ended up really loving the romance between spicy romance  web novelist Nam Ja Yeon (Han Ji Hyun) and chaebol/her internet troll Bok Gyu-heon (Lee Sang Yi) in No Gain No Love. Seeing how these two went from true enemies to lovers was such a treat. I do some research on Webtoons in my professional life, so seeing this drama take seriously the toll that internet hate can take on creatives felt really profound (and pointed) to me, and seeing Gyu Heon realize how much harm he caused in trolling her so hard and figure out how to legitimately make restitution really resonated for me. Plus, the bonus episodes in their spin off, Spice Up Our Love, were a nice treat! These two are totally ready to carry their own dramas as leads, if they want to.

Favorite Platonic Relationship: I’m a sucker for friendships between women, especially for some reason when there are three of them, so the friendship/sisterhood between Son Hae Young, Nam Ja Yeon, and Cha Hui Seong  in No Gain No Love was catnip for me. The way they always showed up for each other even if they didn’t agree with the other’s choices really, really worked for me. Ja Yeon and Hui Seong’s roles as Hae Young’s only foster siblings to stick around long term was really touching, though also bittersweet.  

Dramas I Missed: I meant to watch A Virtuous Business, because who doesn’t love middle aged women selling sex toys? I still might, but that one will likely stay on the back burner for a while. I might also pick up Atypical Familyat some point, since enough people liked that one well enough for me to be at least a little intrigued. Anything else I ought to check out?

Non-2024 Drama Spotlight: I watched Link: Eat, Love, Kill at the end of last winter break, and it was such a fun little drama! It had that unexpected mixing of genres-- the perfect balance of romance, thriller, murder mystery, and magical realism—that made me love KDramas in the first place. I adored Moon Ga Yong as the ne’er-do-well FL forced to move back in with her mother and grandmother by her lackluster career, and her romance with the chef starting a restaurant across the street (played hilariously by Yeo Jin Goo) who, for reasons unknown, shares a psychic connection and can sometimes feel her emotions! Throw in a murder (maybe?) that the mom and grandmother help the FL cover up; a cold case; a fridge that somehow keeps ending up with a body in it; and unexpectedly sharp commentary on domestic violence, and you have yourself a winner, at least in my book. I highly, highly recommend checking it out if you haven’t yet!

Dramas I'm looking forward to: Idk I live under a rock and am happily surprised when fun dramas show up on my dash. I do like the Webtoon for The Remarried Empress, so hopefully the drama for that will be good? Not over all the articles describing this story as a "historical" when the plot depends on the ML being able to *turn into a bird*, so we'll see I guess

[absolutebl]

This Week in BL - New & Old Tropes Galore

Entirely subjective yadda yadda. Organized sorta by favs in each category.

Sept 2023 Wk 4

Ongoing Series - Thai

I Feel You Linger in the Air (Fri grey) ep 7 of 12 - occasionally I forget that Yai is like 20 and this is his first love affaire. That poem bit gave me very Goethe vibes. Lots of doomed lesbians in this ep. Doomed love in general. Frankly? I was hoping for more oil less sad. Also, these two are making some v stupid mistakes. Also: MORE boys dancing.

Finally... who was it wanted a rain kiss? You got your rain kissing here, okay? No umbrellas to be had, apparently.

Dangerous Romance (Fri YT) ep 7 of 12 - I love them so much. They are so darn adorable. I like how forthright Kang is. Boy has no game and is such a dork but at least he's enthusiastic. I love the “my boyfriend smells good” trope that BL is into these days. I’m into it, too. The bff enemies drunken bathroom shenanigans was v funny. Also @heretherebedork your boys are couple dancing all over the damn place this week.

I guess we get the boyfriends ep next week?

Hidden Agenda (Sun YT) ep 12fin - The conflict really kind of wasn’t in this last ep. But I guess it was a fine, if not a particularly strong, ending. I wish we’d had the family conflict threaded throughout the series. It would have felt like a deeper more honest drama and the actors could have handled it. They’re ready. How pretty were Joong’s single picturesque crystal tears? Honestly, it's been lovely, boys. Not at all memorable, but lovely.

Quick pitch Hidden Agenda: 

A relatively simple and harmless old-fashioned style university Thai BL, that started out Cyrano de Bergerac style but then drifted away into forgetfulness. It felt like it could have fit into the En of Love universe, except that it was high quality GMMTV with very pretty makeup. I enjoyed it for what it was, it's just that wasn’t much. 8/10 RECOMMENDED

Naughty Babe (Sat YT) ep 5 of 8 - Am I mostly watching this for Est and annoyed he doesn’t have a pair? Yes. (Am I writing a whole revenge plot in my head: "seduced to the good side by my enemy's hot bodyguard" with him and the Tem character? Yes. Yes I am. But that’s way too KinnPorsche for this show.) That said, MaxNat really are a great pair. Nice that Dio is figuring out how evil his own family is. Weirdly, I kind of like this speculation that if gay marriage were legal rich families would use it for arranged-marriage power plays. Can you imagine what China would do with this concept if they had access to it? 

Love in Translation (Sat iQIYI) ep 7 of 8 - The morning after was sweet, I do like it when we get these scenes in BL. FYI no one misgendered Bojji except the caption writer. The screaming "discovery" scene was adorable. And I am very much falling in love with all of the side characters. I also love how aggressive Yang is, like he stepped out of a 2016 Chinese BL into Thailand. And I adore the main brother relationship.

I have to say, this is going to be a difficult BL for me to review. I didn’t like the first 4 episodes but it seems like I’m going to love the final 3. I’m actually really looking forward to the finale next week. Boy, do I feel strange about this. In other news, is it just me or is it weird to get a gay kiss from Ngern almost 10 years later? How late is too late for smooching a boy? 

Never too late...

Absolute Zero (Thai Weds iQIYI) - from 2021, Studio Wabi Sabi and New Siwaj finally brings us this “time loop to prevent tragedy” romance based on the novel of the same name. I think we can expect this to be sad (so it will likely slide down my list as I become more confident about this). Mix is a great actor, so I’m not worried about that aspect, but I am warning you this won’t be your classic fluffy Thai BL. It’s a bit slow moving for me so far. Meanwhile, a revelation:

Thai high school BL is all about the hands. I blame Love Sick.

FYI the outdoor movie they watch is Love of Siam Thailand’s first real queer movie, also featured in My Only 12%.

I'm in trouble, Ongsa is such a sunshine cutie and Sansoon is so lost and sad. Pretty sure I won’t have the patience for 12 episodes of this, but I’ll stick with it for now because a pair like this is yaoi-induced catnip for me.

Only Friends (Sat YT) ep 8 of 10 - Ah, Ray, baby, you can’t get what you want if you want the wrong thing. Also, corruption charges much? Is Ray turning into Ton or is that just me? I still hold that Jenny’s is the only story I actually wanted. Although, I did enjoy the two bi boys bonding over Freddie. GMMTV sure is making good use of Title now that they got him away from Wabi Sabi and I’m NOT mad about it (4 shows & counting). Under ordinary circumstances, I probably would have dropped this show by now. But something keeps dragging me back.

My Universe (Sun iQIYI) Right Time Right You ep 6 - This couplet ended up feeling like an amateurish short. It was interesting in that way shorts can sometimes push into unusual territory, but very slow. My favorite so far, but that’s not saying much since we've only had 3. Kinda amorphous ending. 5/10 watch it if you have nothing better to do. Next week's looks pretty but silly: You Are My Soulmate.

Venus in the Sky (Tues iQIYI) 5 of 10 eps - I don’t understand the bit with the girl, car & eyebrows. Was that all just ad copy? This show is so bad I’m mostly fast forwarding now. I mean the leads are cute and earnest but that’s it. NO SINGING! And... nothing happened this ep. 

Ongoing Series - Not Thai

Kisseki: Dear to Me (Taiwan Tues Viki & iQIYI) ep 7-8 of 13(?) - Buckle up I got A LOT to say. Ep 7 was the boyfriends ep! Look there’s a a lot of problematic going on here by western standards: age gap (FYI age of consent in Taiwan is 16) + teacher+student, but if you’ve been reading this blog for a while you should know that Taiwan likes both high heat and taboo content (and so do I) plus (unlike Mame) they just lean lube into those kinks. And I, for one, am delighted. I talk about taboo in terms of age gap here and stepbrothers here. I’ve never done teacher/ student because we don’t get it often enough (insert sad face). These are not things that I’m going to complain about or rehash, so, moving on...

I found a lot to love about ep 7: tie grabs, smiley kisses, communication, being held down, younger aggressor, AND preliminary research= all good things. They even brought in morning aftercare, and shared trauma! I love a show that’s both unexpected yet entirely classic Taiwanese BL. I love that the family appeared as a plot device and then disappeared again. It’s all highly amusing.

Gaga dropped ep 8 a week early, I’m assuming this was a mistake since they skip next week. But hey! 

Ep 8: def uhaul lesbians. Also cute queer fam moment. Ring finger biting = v hawt. Then of course it all goes south. Tres romantic means of taking the rap, gotta say. No one does gay sappy quite like Taiwan. Also, now we know why he loses his memory and Ai Di has to go in after him. Honestly, I’m not pleased to see yet another amnesia trope raise its ugly… head (why so many this year?). But it seems to be this year's trend. 

And I know there is more trauma coming, but in classic Taiwan fashion it’s all gonna be fine in the end even if that HEA is chaotic and entirely unearned. Don't worry, all. We good.

You Are Mine (Taiwan Fri Gaga) eps 4 of 10 - Oh noes, sunshine has a cold. And not from the rain... just, like, a normal cold. Amazing. But then when baby gets kidnapped, daddy gets v mad. Honestly, I am charmed by the show. It is very old-fashioned "domineering CEO puts little lady up against the wall" and it’s Taiwan, and thus I am not mad about it. This is what we would be getting from Mainland China if China we’re still making pulp BL. I am disposed to simply enjoy the utter "80s bodice ripper but gay"-ness of it all.

Bon Appetit (Korea Weds iQIYI) 1-2 of 8 - from 2022. If you have premium icky VIP you can binge it all now. I don’t, so instead I’m watching it 2 new episodes every Weds. Struggling heartbroken loser-ish office worker who lives off junk food + sunshine neighbor who loves to cook (from his past with a long-held crush). Also there is a "love class" element. Why does Korea like this conceit so much? Do their universities really engage in socialization training? Gotta say I’m getting whiffs of stalker... but only whiffs. Basically, this show is going poster child “way to a man’s heart is through his stomach“. Bit too much flashback, but I like that our chef is open about liking a boy, and I like that they remember things differently and in alignment with their own egos. And I like that we got a confession already. Ah KBL, it is nice to watch something that MUST move plot quickly. 

My Personal Weatherman AKA Taikan Yoho (Japan Sat Gaga) ep 6 of 8 - Jealous weatherman is ridiculous. Japan = queen of “why don’t you guys just talk?” 

Mr Cinderella 2 (Vietnam Sat YT) ep 2 - Ba Vinh & Minh Thao reprising their roles as Dung & Khoa what do we think? 8 eps? 10? We got the stepbrothers (or whatever they are) backstory. Also My Prettiest Cat-boy does certifiable nutcake v well. Psychopath looks hot on him.  

It's Airing But...

Crazy Handsome Rich (Sun Gaga) ep 3 of 10 - The sound. No. DNF 

I Cannot Reach You AKA I Can't Reach You AKA Kimi ni wa Todokanai (Japan Tues Netflix-Japan & ????) - Adapted from the manga, childhood best friends: The cool, smart one who’s good at everything, and his average, dorky friend who struggles. Always by the other’s side, but not together in the way they truly want to be.

Unfortunately I Cannot Reach You, in classic JBL fashion, could not be reached. 

In case you missed it?

Viki dropped Our Dating Sim the movie. I didn’t notice any extra footage and they took out all the in game/high school flashback stingers. At first, I didn’t really miss them but by the end of the movie I really did. So this is going to be one of those rare KBL instances where I recommend sticking to the original series over the repackaged movie.

Next Week Looks Like This:

Upcoming October BL

10/1 Can I Buy Your Love From A Vending Machine? AKA Sono Koi, Jihanki de Kaemasu ka? (Japan cinema release in-country only) - This one is a movie from Japan so in customary fashion who tf knows when (or if) it will get international distribution. Salaryman Ayumu Koiwai just can't tear his eyes away from the strong, muscular man as he checks on the stocks of the vending machine in his office.

10/5 If It’s With You AKA Even If I Fall In Love With You AKA Kimi to nara Koi wo Shite Mite mo’ (Japan Gaga) - from MBS a live action adaptation of Kubota Maru’s manga ‘君となら恋をしてみても. Amane has stopped loving people due to trauma until he meets Ryuji. At first Amane just wants to play with Ryuji but… feelings. I am assuming 8 eps and rumored to be taking Weatherman's spot so that date is likely wrong.

10/6 What Did You Eat Yesterday Season 2 AKA Kinou Nani Tabeta? Season 2 (Japan Gaga) - 4th installment in this series (1st series, 1 special, 1 movie prior) about a lawyer who lives with his boyfriend, a hairdresser, and cooks for him. Season 2 will follow the couple as they enter their 50’s. Slice-of-life drama adapted from a beloved manga series of the same name.

10/6 My Beautiful Man: Eternal AKA Utsukushii Kare Eternal (Japan movie Viki & Gaga) - This is the 3rd and final installment the series. The 2nd season didn’t blow me away the way the 1st did, but I still liked it. I'm looking forward to the finale. I hope we get character growth for a change.

10/31 SHADOW (Thai VIU ????) - this is a horror BL featuring ghosts and other paranormal elements in a high school setting. I'm not wild about Thai horror (or horror at all, but if it must be done in BL let Japan do it). It features Singto (who did paranormal BL He's Coming to Me) opposite Fluke N (who's done a couple horror's before). Also Fiat. Dan suffers from sleep paralysis, and in his dreams he sees a shadow that suffocates him. It gets worse when he transfers schools.

October? Bump Up Project AKA Bump Up Business (Korea ????) - BL staring OnlyOneOf that released(??) as a movie in July but is now being recut and reissued as a series. Stars NineMill and from Idol Romance bulled as a love story between a trainee who is about to debut and a celebrity from the same agency (based on a webtoon). OnlyOneOf have been auditioning for this since Libido IMHO. You can watch me chronicle their BL MV work in this post. Idol Romance will do sad but can do good kisses (Wish You, Nobleman Ryu, Once Again, Kissable Lips, Poongduck 304, Tasty Florida, Tinted With You) but I don't think we will get any in this. After that OmegaX Shoulder bullshizz buisness I am very wary of this show.

2023 forthcoming BL master post (see comments, some are inaccurate, NOT KEPT UPDATED).

THIS WEEK’S BEST MOMENTS

There was a ton of truly great stuff in this week's Kiseki, but this was hands down my favorite. (Pun intended.)

Oh and the neck kisses of course.

I LOVE HIM your honor.

GMMTV's ongoing love affair with the scent trope.

Calling out out new couple's dance trope. (Both Dangerous Romance)

(Last week) 

[dandadananalysis]

Turbo Granny Arc pt.1.1/4

Part 1: Episode 1/Chapter 1

Part 2: Episode 2/Chapter 2

Part 3: Episode 3/Chapter 3+4 [post credit: Bonus Vol.1 Chapter 5]

Part 4: Episode 4/ Chapter 5-8 (first 3/4) [1/4 rest is for AS arc]

How I divide my parts: I have already posted: -> Part 2/3 Serpo Arc

This post will include: reviewing the episode/chapter, compare the differences between the two, my opinion of the episode/chapter.

¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬

First episode/chapter is kinda cheesy and sweet, basically like most animes/mangas, first episode/chapter is always shown as a plot of the whole story.

We were firstly introduced with Ayase Momo, a gyaru, and she basically got dumped by a terrible "boyfriend" who likes to do dirty stuffs with her for money.

After cursing him with seafood, ofc she is depressed. But oh well, she got very good and supportive girl friends in class who seemed to also be gyaru (I will discuss about gyaru in a future post). They all told her to dump him anaways because of his attitude is unacceptable. Momo claimed she only dates guys who look like Takakura Ken, a famous Japanese actor (he is real).

And while depressed about her first "ex-bf" dumping her (the way she was walking is actually from a dance/reference, I will discuss in a future post about her), she passed by a nerdy friend's classroom. He was bullied by other guys because of being weirdly, and passionately obsessed with alien stuffs, and always reading books about them.

Momo was pretty much annoyed with the nerd's attitude that he didn't stand up for himself, so she blocked the boys from throwing crumbled papers at him. Pretty much you can see, she was defending him from the bullies.

When she left, the nerd called and followed her. He thought that she was interested in aliens and space so he just went all-out telling her everything :))) Ofc Momo was mad.

Also I noticed a very small detail they changed in the anime: They changed President Barack Obama from manga to President Donald Trump in anime! If possible, you can actually read what is in the book that Okarun brings in anime if you know Japanese

When she was pissed because of his annoyance, and not interested in aliens because she thought they didn't exist, the nerdy friend is pretty sad about it, but of course she really didn't mean to say mean things at him, it's actually because she is interested in ghosts, spirits, which our nerdy friend smickered at her that they weren't real. And that turned into a debate/argument, whether aliens or spirits exist.

Each other challenged the other one to go to the rumored places. Momo went to an abandoned hospital, and Occult-kun (his temporarily nickname) went to an abandoned tunnel.

When they were on their phones, this is when they started to tell the other about their childhood why they are interested in aliens/spirits. Momo started by explaining that throughout her childhood, she's been living with her grandma who is a spirit medium because her parents are gone.

Every day, her grandma always told her to do a certain ritual for good luck, and her friends always mocked her for being abnormal and the boys teased her. And most painful one is her crush was one of those boys. (I mean, I would be devastated like Momo, too)

From that day onwards, she was pretty mad at her grandma for being a lame and fake spirit medium and stopped doing the ritual. But then she realized, it's not because of the ritual that she was mad at her grandma, it's actually because her friends were making fun at her grandma that made her angry, because she know deep down, she truly love her grandma :")))

After she finished her story, she asked Occult-kun why he was interested in aliens, he pretty much ignored the question and keep going onwards, until he saw some footsteps

Here's a small great detail that really does make a huge difference between the anime and manga: The manga actually didn't have the bloody footsteps on the tunnel, but the anime does. And that makes the scene more realistic, we can implictly understood that Occult-kun was getting closer and closer to the spirit

AND he met her. Turbo Granny.

Damn, first impression, a pervert granny :))))

Even worse, challenging her to a running competition.

In the manga, Okarun manages to escape from the tunnel and on his bike riding away, but Turbo Granny managed to get him. But in the anime, the studio made Okarun stuck in the endless tunnel, hiddenly stated that once you are in Turbo Granny's territory, there is no escape. Making the whole scene turned red, indicating that this is her territory and her ability, so she had the upper hand

Eventually he got cursed by Granny and suddenly lost contact to Momo. Even her smartphone was red

AND then Momo saw the aliens. They are even more lewd: ripping off her clothes!

(Youtube didn't have this scene :"))) but you can find it from other sources on the Internet!)

She was introduced with the Serpo alien, their species only has males and they reproduce by multiplication. Because of the modern technology, they wanted to know more abt female humans for experiments. They wanted to have the female reproduction organ (the w0mb/cervix) (The banana organ is actually implied for male body part, the reason the Serpoians said that because they are only male, so they basically dunno what it's called for female)

Luckily, her phone rang, and we saw Okarun in a form of being possessed by Turbo Granny! He defeated one of the aliens!

(Why is Turbo Granny biting one of the Serpo's p3n1$ ? :")))

If you watch the anime, you can actually notice that when the Serpo appeared, their territory was blue, and when Turbo Granny appeared in their territory, Okarun's body has a red aura, indicating that his aura trying to fight against the blue territory.

Seeing a major risk of a male human, the Serpo revealed their true form, and they attacked Occult-kun. And that made his red aura disappeared.

(Sorry, gotta stop this post for now, I reached max 30 pics already)

Part 1.2 is going to post next!

[thegeekiary]

Welcome to Adventures in Kidnapping, Shakespeare style. Both Bison and Fadel have absconded with their maybe-not-real boyfriends to parts unknown. But their situations could not be more different.

READ MORE: The Heart Killers 1×08 Review: Episode 8

[mikuni14]

Jazz For Two - Ep 7-8

I was very into this series from episodes 1-6, but regarding episodes 7-8: wtf lmao.

First of all, I'll honestly admit that after Tae Yi's reaction to the kiss and his werid, sexual attack on Se Heon, I wasn't able to enjoy this series as much as I used to 🤷‍♀️ I don't know if it's because of that or in general, but the tone of the show changed for me from previous episodes.

It seems to me that the series wasted its potential, that it had some intentions that it was unable to implement, either due to lack of time, lack of willingness, or lack of opportunity to delve into the topic of homophobia and abuse. In my review of episodes 1-6, I wrote that the series has a The Eight Sense vibe, but that's what it was- just the vibe. Because The Eight Sense didn't leave issues behind, they didn't deal with them half-heartedly, barely touched upon (well, maybe apart from the issue of "friends", but that was at the end anyway and it wasn't something important for MLs). Unfortunately, JFT touched, skipped over and completely ignored literally every topic: domestic violence, homophobia manifested in violence, including sexual one, depression, internalized homophobia, fear…

Personally, I prefer BL series that take place in a "bubble of acceptance" where homophobia doesn't exist. For many reasons, one of them is how homophobia is most of the times treated and "cured" in the series. I think that homophobia in JFT had the potential to be a very good main theme of the series, but unfortunately the series failed to meet the challenge: homophobia exists, is very unpleasant and is not resolved in any logical way. People affected by it just magically "heal" themselves, or after a while… it stops being an issue. Seriously.

The story is there, they just had to delve into it and not be afraid of difficult, heavy topics. I have the impression that I know what the creators wanted to convey, but they chose the wrong scenes and the wrong "means of communication". For example, why Se Heon's agony when he realizes that his brother indirectly caused the suicide of his boyfriend's brother was not shown. How he struggles with it, how he thinks that breaking up with his boyfriend is the right thing to do. Instead, he is shown as someone who knows that his brother rejected Tae Yi's brother's love, resulting in tragedy, and he does the EXACT SAME THING. I thought about this connection immediately, didn't it occur to the creators?

The second couple: a tough, harsh babygirl and his "love nemesis": they simply ceases to exist. WHY. Again - the potential was right there.

This series had incredible potential, killer couples, a great story and a theme that could have turned this series into another The Eight Sense or Love For a Love's Sake. Unfortunately, it didn't work out. (So I decided to focus only on nice scenes and ignore the rest 😚)

[ecargmura]

Twilight Out Of Focus Episode 10 Review - The Evening Monologues

Remember how Shion declared that he’d fix Rei back in Episode 8? Congratulations, Shion, you fixed him! Well, he’s not completely fixed, but is in the process of being so. Anyways, it was nice seeing Rei’s perspective on his relationship with Shion and how his earlier actions were due to the inability to grasp change, but meeting Shion changed all that. I always liked that unlike the previous two couples, this one doesn’t follow the usual formula. Rei and Shion are not roommates and Rei does feel more “seme-like” compared to Hisashi and Jin who don’t feel as seme-like.

Rei is someone who dislikes change. That’s why he never puts effort into his past relationships. He is struggling to find a path in his life. However, Shion came and showed him that change isn’t scary and that anything is possible. That’s what caused him to develop feelings for him. To be honest, Rei’s inability to find a path for his future does feel relatable. I know a lot of people who still have no idea what they want to do. Rei is someone who likes being comfortable in his own space and rarely lets others in. I think describing Shion as a glitch or a bug fits him perfectly because Shion did come into his life unexpectedly and caused an issue in his system. Because of him, Rei is doing things he normally never does like chasing after Shion and even professing his feelings for him; he even feels jealous of other men around Shion too, a first from him. Heck, he even vacuumed his room just so he can have a good first time with Shion. You know an introvert who is holed up in his room all the time is making effort when he actually vacuums for the first time…wait, that’s not just a me thing? What I liked the most is that Rei’s hat flies off when he confesses to Shion, making him more honest about his feelings.

Anyways, his conversation with Jin was nice to see. During the Slow Motion era, Rei was the one who essentially gave advice to Giichi about Jin. I feel like the tables have turned since as Jin is the one giving advice to Rei. I can tell how close they are from their scene. Both Jin and Rei have changed when it comes to love, so it’s interesting to see how both react and process it. I love how Rei reacted to seeing Jin and Giichi kissing and how Jin reacted when Rei was right behind him.

I do like that Shion is looking for a relationship where he and Rei are equal in a sense. While he’s happy that Rei wants to go out with him seriously, he’s still nervous about how long it’ll last. He gives Rei his diary, which turns out to be a poetry journal. Oh ho, Mao has some competition in terms of being the poet in the film club. He lent it to Rei in hopes that the older boy can learn more about him and tell him about his worries and such. Fortunately, Rei knows the ups and downs of Shion. Man, it’s nice to see Rei be an affectionate boyfriend in his own way. 

I guess my only gripe is that they removed a lot of small details from the manga, but I’ll get to that when I review the manga. Other than that, it’s well-executed and has good pacing.

Anyways, what I like about this pair and for the other two pairs is that they’re written in a way that you do feel like they’ll last forever. Even if there are ups and downs along the way, they all have good communication with each other, so I’m sure things will work out for all of them. It seems that next week is a mix of all three couples, so I can’t wait to see how that’ll play out. What are your thoughts on this episode and the Evening Monologues pair as a whole?

[lemonisherelol]

And I’m back! Heyy! Hii! Hello!! How’s it going? :3

Today i wanted to show y’all my art! Some are old but Ye! And I’m so sorry if it took a while, yes I’m doing ok. I’m trynna get some treatment the best I can lol

So let’s talk, so i planned to make a couple rang Videos on Tiktok, S4n1c_k1dxd or Lemon !! [#1 Kim n Mr. X simp] (might saw me anywhere lol). The first things I would love to make is Hazbin Hotel rant, basically me reviewing it and talking about it, bc I had a bad interaction with some fans. And then, a redesign video! It’ll take me a while now since I’m focusing on my health. But!! I did redesigned helluva boss characters! I’ll show whenever I’m done with Fizzarolli and Barbie! Then next, before showing it I’ll talk about an AU! My friends came up with the designs/lore while me and my boyfriend make the concepts! (He makes the hellborns while I make the imps!)

That’s about it, But hey! I watched new pretty blood episode! I did see Eluca’s sister but i didn’t expect her to be all different- But got to see my bbg Kling again!!

Someone requested to draw Bradley, I also wanted to say that I love Bradley so much, he and Johnny being inspired from each other is CRAZY!

I also made SlimYin, but i made it my own way! I wasn’t sure about the current design though-

I also wanted to show some of my sonas, (both in 7 and 8 drawings!) :3

I also wanted to show more pretty blood art and naughty bear art! Lastly, Slendytubbies! (My slendy ocs are all males btw)

I hope to see you soon! :).

[vestaclinicpod]

Audio Drama Sunday - 2nd June ✨

I feel like I haven’t had lots of listening time this week, but what I have heard has been amazing!  

🌲 @hellofromthehallowoods (154) ohh I am such an arachnophobe but I loveddd the return of LEM. Clem selling Danielle out sure is a CHOICE but tbh Danielle has such Ethel vibes this season that I assumed she was who Clem was going to visit when she was introduced. If anyone can stare down all 8 of Ethel’s eyes, it’s our girl Danielle. I want her to blow strawberry smoke in them from her new sexy cigarette holder. I had been wondering how the other boat could possibly house our nautical murderer but they can fly!! Duh! Imagine being stuck in a room with futuristic Vermin Supreme while there’s a vampire outside?? Bonkers. 

I’m SO desperate for the next episode to find out the results of Shank autopsy!! Shelby better get 60000 apologies from the other pigs in the room…… 

🧳 Travelling Light @monstrousproductions (23) system administrator??? what does that MEAN? I really thought they were going to kiss this episode 🤭 What a lovely story of conservation and love for nature!!! 

👁️ @malevolentcast (42) I am OBSESSED with Yorick’s jaw snap. What a fun sound effect. I honestly can’t be coping with these situations Arthur gets into. A rapier?? Internally?? Sir. Please. You do too much. 

🎙️WTNV (249) I know I say this all the time… but the weather really did slap this episode.

🖥️ The Magnus Protocol (18) This one was genuinely unsettling. I can’t believe the neutral response from the autopsy guy?? Literally ‘felt cute, might delete later’?? I would be taking myself straight to A+E to wait 23 hours for a mental health review??? 

🍎 @notquitedeadpod (XXXX) AAAAAAAH. SUCH a good episode and SUCH a good ending to the season!! Ohh the acting was SO good. It hurt me to hear Neige like that. Alfie’s rage and panic and despair were so palpable. The scenes at the facility were perfectly gory. I guess the benefit of having a 10000 year old vampire boyfriend is that he’s survived without cars and electricity before and, by God, he’ll do it again. I am wishing Eira nothing but impeccable and easy planning and writing for the next season! I can’t wait!!! 

👻 @tellnotalespod (S2E11) eek! I feel very weird writing about something I’m in but just want to share how excited I am to be a part of one of my favourite shows 🩷 a huge thanks to Leanne for having me!!!! 

Today is the last day to support @monkeymanproductions' crowdfunder for their next show Waiting For October! They're so close to their goal!!

[incorrect-junji-ito]

Uzumaki episode 1 review

So I found the time to watch the new episode today, and I have some thoughts.

Spoiler warning for those who haven't seen it yet.

First of all, the animation looks amazing. The black-and-white really benefits the atmosphere, and it imitates Ito's style well. The rotoscope animation is very smooth and does a good job of giving the characters a good range of expressions. It's easy to tell that the animators put a lot of work into the art and animation. I liked how they added little details like Kirie blinking her eyes trying to move her eyes independently when Shuichi talked about his father doing so.

The voice actors did a great job too. The voices fit the characters, and everyone did a good job of portraying the emotions the characters were feeling. Especially Mrs. Saito, who delivered some fantastic screams of horror.

Then there's the pacing. Since it is a four-episode series, it's only natural that they had to fit in a lot in each episode. So having the first episode cover chapter 1, the first half of chapter 2, chapter 3, and the beginning of chapter 8 was a choice I think was smart. One of the biggest criticisms I've seen of the Uzumaki manga is that it's too episodic and that characters seem to forget the horrors they've seen every new chapter (which is debatable but not the point of this post), having multiple things happen in one episode gives the series a bigger sense of urgency. And I liked the choice of Azami taking the bus to Mr. Saito's funeral. It shows her manipulative nature by appearing kind to Kirie, when it was an excuse to see Shuichi.

Though personally, I think some scenes went by too quickly, but I suppose it's harder to linger on a shot and let the horror really sink in in an anime, especially when you're limited to four episodes. I wish we had more episodes so we could let more scenes sink in, however, because Uzumaki has some nice quiet moments that I really enjoy.

And because the series is limited to four episodes, we do miss out on some details that I really enjoy from the manga. Like how in the manga Azami rents an apartment in Kurouzu-cho so she can harass Shuichi at night and bang on his door. A lot of Azami's behavior just wasn't adapted. And the scene of Mr. Saito getting violent towards his wife when she threw away his spiral collection was sadly lost, too.

And little details like Mr. Saito telling Kirie that Shuichi's not home when she comes to deliver the bowl to him, or Kirie and Shuichi calling each other about Azami and Okada. Those are very small details, but they tell a lot about Kirie and Shuichi's relationship. They inform us that Kirie and Shuichi spend a lot of time together and they're used to visiting each other, and that they're open and communicate clearly with each other. And I really miss the scene of Kirie telling Azami to stop bothering Shuichi and to back off from her boyfriend.

A detail that I understand they changed is that Azami first sees Shuichi when she goes with Kirie to meet him at the train station. It's pretty natural, since in that scene, Azami is just going to the train station to get home. And since Mrs. Saito's not dead yet, it makes sense that Shuichi's not reclusive yet and is still taking the train home from school.

For all the differences from the manga, I'm enjoying the anime so far. I'm excited for what they do for the rest of the series.

[sunnydaleherald]

The Sunnydale Herald Newsletter, Tuesday, July 16

Giles: Stop, both of you. Uh, what, uh . . . What are you talking about? W-what's the Initiative? What. . . what on earth does it have to do with Buffy's new boyfriend? Willow: You know. I'm sure you know. Riley's one of the commandos. Giles: What?! Well that's marvelous, isn't it? Here I am, spent weeks trying, uh, t-to get a single scrap of information about our mysterious demon collectors and no one bothers to tell me that Buffy's dating one of them?! Who else knows?! Xander: No one. No one else knows this. Anya, and that's it! Willow: And Spike. Giles: Spike?! Spike knew? Xander: Only the basic stuff. You know, that Riley is a commando and Professor Walsh is in charge. Giles: Professor Walsh!? That fishwife!? Willow: You know, she's actually not that bad once you get to-- (sees Giles' look) So, th-the demon is probably a little late. W-we'll just, you know-- Giles: Oh, forget it. Go on. You two clear off. I'll just stay a little longer just in case.

~~Buffy Episode #68: "A New Man"~~

[Drabbles & Short Fiction]

Batteries Not Included (Faith/Dawn, M) by cmk418

The Advantages of Friendship (Xander, Giles, G) by cmk418

Gift Wrapping Traditions (Buffy, Faith, G) by cmk418

Figgy Pudding (Or the Ridiculousness of A Certain Christmas Carol) (Xander/Anya, G) by cmk418

Once More with (Ill) Feeling (Sweet, G, Glee xover) by Gray Cardinal (Gray_Cardinal)

Words Matter Most (Willow, G, NCIS xover) by Gray Cardinal (Gray_Cardinal)

Genuine Girl Scouts (Amy, T, Castle xover) by Gray Cardinal (Gray_Cardinal)

Manga Xander (Ensemble, G, High School DxD - Ishibumi Ichiei xover) by Baldur

Avenger Xander (Ensemble, T, Avengers xover) by Baldur

Super Xander (Ensemble, T, DCU xover) by Baldur

I Thought I Taw a Putty Tat (Xander, Faith, G) by Fablemaker

The Recruit (Buffy/Spike, M) by Harlow Turner

[Chaptered Fiction]

In the Company of Witches and Slayers: CH. 101 (Willow/Tara, E) by VladimirHarkonnen (TheLightdancer)

Home Movies Ch. 8 (Buffy/Spike, E) by cawthraven

The Worst Sacrifice, Chapter 2 (Buffy/Spike, E) by TwilightChild

The Degradation of Duality [Series Part 2], Chapter 28-29 (Buffy/Spike, E) by Ragini

I’ll Get You, My Pretty!, Chapter 3 (Buffy/Spike, M) by NoJudgementZone99

Maclay Down, Chapter 13 (Buffy/Spike, E) by Soulburnt

A Blackcap's Song, Chapter 1 (Buffy/Spike, E) by Murray

The Neighbor's Point of View, Chapter 120 (Buffy/Spike, G) by the_big_bad

Life with Buffy, Chapter 3 (Buffy/Spike, T) by Joan963z

Spiked, Chapter 9 (Buffy/Spike, E) by Maxine Eden

The Witch’s Gift, Chapter 38 (Buffy/Spike, E) by RavenLove12

Task Mistress, Chapter 3 (Buffy/Spike, E) by HappyWhenItRains

Night Carnival, Chapter 3 (Buffy/Spike, T) by tbd

Unicorn , Chapter 4 (Buffy/Spike, M) by Desicat

Aim High Ch. 6 (Buffy, T, SGA xover) by Buffyworldbuilder

[Images, Audio & Video]

Fanmix:The Mixtape Chronicles, Chapter 1-7 () by Julikobold

Artwork:Bangel chibi sketches () by MamaBewear

Artwork:The Gentleman () by thedemonglitch

Artwork:Jenny and Rupert () by mistyintherivers

Artwork:Faith () by sawcathuntingplainrawlasagna

Artwork:Buffy () by cadaverkeys

Custom Figures: Buffy () by thegothicalice

Icons: () by

Manip:Episodic art for BtVS 2x10 “What’s My Line 2” () by revello-drive-1630

Video: Dawn Summers - All American bitch by Faith Victoria

Video: willow rosenberg | who's afraid of little old me? () by ImagineDragonlords

[Reviews & Recaps]

Mothman’s Buffy Rewatch: Season 3, episodes 14 and 15, “Bad Girls” and “Doppelgangland” by mothmans-wedding-photographer

PODCAST: ATS 219 - Belonging by Another Buffy Podcast

Video: Buffy The Vampire Slayer | 2x1 "When She Was Bad" | REACTION by Andres El Rey

[Community Announcements]

August Fic-A-Day Challenge (2024) Discussion by Twistinbg the Hellmouth

Tuesday Prompts: Land by comment-fic

[Fandom Discussions]

I liked the episode of Angel that Buffy was on by annarowyn

my new theory by edgarallanhoetry

the buffy dvd sets are so silly. by neros-very-first-fiddle

Buffy’s supposed amazing vamp-dar by vargamornight

i have zero sympathy for vampires by youhavethesun

I don’t want Giles to leave by nikascorneroftheinternet

Say whatever you want, Buffy showed her whole ass when she kissed Spike in intervention. by skyegraves21

Orpheus by Joan the Vampire Slayer

Spike the Shrike? by emptyheadedgoblin

Buffy: Restless by Guilty-Tie164

Would Buffy be a good witch if she put her mind into it? by SafiraAshai

Angel by five-bi-five

Dead Man’s Party by Final_Swordfish_93

What are your thoughts on Kate? by 41GardenGal

Angel TV Show by curlysuze1

A more adult Buffy. by NoJudgementZone99

The Buffy EP - Velvet Chain by _gigsly

Just realised the big difference between Xander and Buffy... by needadviceplease8910

Gingerbread by CrimsonFlower22

Fandoms: by Bpd_embroiderer18

Am i the only one who thinks they're the best couple of the show? by direinde

What episode would you rate 9/10 and what's holding it back from being a perfect 10? by InfiniteMehdiLove

In Response to the “They were all whining” critique of Dead Man’s Party by mrjustice7

S7E6 Him by Kitchen-Driver7695

I watched Buffy as a kid and it was a bad influence… by PyleanCow06

was not expecting to cry this hard today! by lobotomizednemo

Buffy Panel To Panel continuation? by justagreatdane

Season 3 Done and Dusted by Organic_Individual52

Spike being there when Buffy comes out of the Slayer closet to Joyce adds a hilarious twist by Randy_Giles1880

Do you have any scenes that you find to be funny even though they weren't meant to be? by BoredYogiOnHere

What are some moments in the Buffyverse that show how well some of the characters know each other by PristineSituation498

Missing scenes by NoJudgementZone99

How popular was buffy at the time when the show was on? by Introvertedslayer

[Articles, Interviews, and Other News]

PUBLICATION: Buffy the Vampire Slayer's Riskiest Episode Modernized TV's Most Controversial Trope by CBR

Submit a link to be included in the newsletter!

Join the editor team :)

[velveteenfeline]

January 2025 Content Review

₊ ⊹ 🍾Happy New Year🍾 ₊ ⊹

I finished my school placement which means this January I am back to having classes! I am back to living on campus which honestly I am not too excited about. I miss my hometown. However new year new me and all that jazz and I refuse to be negative. I don't think I will have much time to enjoy content this month so this list may not change in February.

Currently Enjoyed Series

What am I watching?

⤷ Brooklyn 99 - My beloved, I am always watching this it is always on when I fall asleep. I have just entered into season 5. 9/10.

⤷ Supernatural - Currently on season 3 episode 3. This is a rewatch but it has been years since I first watched it. I am really enjoying it and having a lot of fun.

⤷ Mr Sunshine - Started this for Lee Byung-hun. I have only watched episode 1 as it is something I enjoy watching with my boyfriend and can only see when he visits me. Episode was hella long but hella enjoyable. I found the storyline a bit hard to track so far.

⤷ Alice In Borderland - On Season 1 episode 2. Chasing the thrill that I got from ᡣ𐭩 Squid Game ᡣ𐭩. Love the concept and the games seem super interesting. A bit slow for me.

I am very overwhelmed by the amount of tv series I have on the go.

Recently Enjoyed Movies and Series

⤷ Long Legs - 8/10. Loved the cinematography. Was not too big of a fan of the ending. Long Legs did freak me out a lot.

⤷ A man on The Inside - 8/10. Made me cry a lot. Whose idea was it to make a comedy with a bunch of old people. Heart felt but I wish the jokes landed better.

⤷ I Think you Should leave - 5/10. I found some of the skits to be insufferable but the ones that were good were really good. I quote a lot of the skits to this day.

⤷ Squid Game. 10/10. My current hyper fixation. I love this show so much. Did some of the scenes drag on for too long? Yes. Did some of the plot lines seem pointless because they went no where? Maybe. I don't care I love it. Have watched season 2 twice since it came out and will continue to watch idc.

Currently Reading

⤷ The Winners By Fredrick Backman. - Book 3 in the Bear Town Trilogy. I have been reading this book for a while (no fault of the books I've just been in a slump). And need to finish it.

Next Read

Leave the World Behind By Rumaan Alam. - This was supposed to be a buddy read I did with my sister in December.. Yikes.

₊✩‧₊˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ Have a great day ₊✩‧₊˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊

⠀ Border credits: @saradika-graphics