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Journey With You (Chinese Series)

By Golu
I've always had kind of a love hate relationship with Chinese historical BLs. Some are genuinely excellent, but then there are others that cram in so much plot that keeping track of all the layers of betrayal and scheming gets exhausting, and I end up checking out mentally. Part of the issue is also just how much content is out there in this space, so something really has to stand out to keep me hooked. In this case, the production value is genuinely impressive, top tier stuff, but story wise, I just couldn't bring myself to actually care about these characters. There's a ton of political scheming and backstage manipulation running throughout. Somewhere in the middle of all that chaos, a hostage ends up falling for his own Prince Charming. The show runs eight episodes, each around 50 to 60 minutes long. After spending three years guarding the border, Fifth Prince Yin Qi gets called back to the capital because of a secret letter, only to end up walking straight into a deadly...
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Stay By My Side After The Rain (Japanese Series)

By Golu

At first, this series looks like your typical gay love story—and it is—but deep down, it’s really more about having the guts to be honest about who you are. It’s about how love keeps changing, how you bring your family along for the ride, and how you deal with everyone’s different beliefs. Don't go in expecting a ton of steam, because the show focuses way more on companionship and emotional connection. With 12 episodes at about 25 minutes each, it definitely has some dull spots, but I have to say its heart is in the right place.

The story centers on two childhood friends, Kanade and Mashiro, who bump into each other again on a rainy day. They were always close, and Kanade actually had a massive crush on Mashiro back then, but he was too scared to ever say anything. He couldn't really accept being gay, so after graduation, he just bailed on his hometown and cut off all contact. When they finally reunite years later, Mashiro recognizes him instantly and is super excited to catch up, but Kanade feels totally awkward because those old feelings are still there. Kanade tries to ghost him for a bit by ignoring his messages, but when they finally sit down to talk, he blurts out that he’s gay and was in love with him. To his surprise, Mashiro feels the same way, and they decide to date. As they get closer, we learn they both have some serious family baggage. Mashiro’s mom is way too overbearing, which pushed him away, and Kanade’s dad always gave him a hard time for not being "man enough." Kanade eventually gets caught kissing Mashiro by his dad, which forces him to come out, but eventually, the people in their lives start to understand. Their bond keeps them both strong, and after Mashiro proposes, the show wraps up with a sweet wedding and the couple hanging out with their friends at their favorite spot.

When I first started watching, I honestly thought it was going to be one of those overly mushy, shallow shows without much to say. It does eventually find its footing and get deeper, but unfortunately, that happens so late in the game that I think some people might give up on it before it gets good. It’s a very gentle watch that deals with the anxiety of being open—not just with family, but with yourself. It does a nice job of balancing two different paths: one about fixing family trauma and the other about what it’s like for two men to figure out how to stand together in the world. I really liked how the romance grew slowly, from just hanging out to that nervous first kiss and the fear of actually getting intimate. Once Kanade stops overthinking everything, you can really see him appreciate how loyal Mashiro is. As far as the acting goes, they both did fine, but Kanade was definitely the standout for me because he felt more charming and emotional. The guy playing Mashiro felt a little wooden at times, and I wasn’t totally sold on the drama with his mom, but I can look past that.

It’s a simple, sweet romance without any crazy plot twists or massive heartbreaks. It was actually refreshing to see them actually communicate and heal each other just by being present. It’s not necessarily a life-changing show, but it’s a very tender and thoughtful story.

It’s a slow-moving but sincere look at coming out and growing up, making it a solid choice if you're in the mood for something low-stress and sweet. (6.5/10)

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