The current trend in the Thai BL industry is adapting popular novels. Avid fans are so focused on reimagining their favorite textbook characters that a lot is lost in transition. Adaptations are easy to come by, but very directors have the calibre to adapt a good novel to awe-inspiring cinema. “Be Mine SuperStar” Director David Bigander is one of those few filmmakers. The Swedish-Thai auteur has a multifaceted personality; as a screenwriter and director, he has worked on several ambitious projects like Bite Me, My Sassy Girl & Rose In Da House. Currently, he is working on the upcoming drama “Be Mine SuperStar”, which is one of the most anticipated releases of 2023. As we sat down for a conversation, Mr. Baginder shares his personal thoughts & experiences!

1) Your first BL adaptation, “Bite Me Series”, was quite well received. How was the experience of working on this show with popular author Sammon Scene?

It was a good experience working with Sammon, her story is pretty amazing itself. I was inspired to use film as a medium to present a clearer characteristic of the actors, visually, when it comes to series. Sammon was very open minded when we discussed this. I am thankful that she gave me the opportunity to work on such a great novel.

2) How did you cast Mark Siwat and Zung Kidakarn for their respective roles as Aek and Aue? Did they fulfil your vision?

Absolutely, they were both able to carry their characters as I expected. Mark and Zung got to cast a scene together and I knew right then that the chemistry was right for each other.

3) “Be Mine SuperStar” is your second book adaptation. Were you actively involved in the casting process?

Yes, but I wasn’t involved in the casting process. Khun Kai Varayuth Milintachinda was the executive consultant and selected the actors for our series.

4) Popular BL couple Ja Phachara and First Chalongrat will be playing the main leads, Punn and Achi. What is your opinion about these two actors?

I wasn’t a part of the casting process, although I met them at our first acting class, I felt that they both were made for these roles as they were well prepared and professional prior to our meeting. So, I was confident that they would be able to deliver in whichever way needed.

5) Apart from JaFirst, Bosston Suphadach and Jo Kavinpat will be playing the secondary couple, Mingmueang and Namning. Can you talk to us about their characters?

Bosston Suphadach and Jo Kavinpat complement each so well, like fire meets lava. Mingmueang and Namning have a great dynamic! Right now we are on the post production process and are so excited to see this project come to life.

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6) If you had to choose between directing films or dramas, which one would you choose? Which form of art is closer to your heart?

I love both of them, I really cannot decide which one I like most. Both have their own charm. I love telling stories, so anything that leads me to cinema and visuals is my passion.

7) Have you watched BL/LGBTQ dramas or movies directed by others?

Of course! My favorite one is “Brokeback Mountain” directed by Ang Lee. The scene when Ennis finds his lovers shirt was very emotional.

8) What is your filmmaking style? What do you consider being your immediate challenges in directing this exciting BL series?

I’m a very meticulous person, I focus on all the characters and the storyline more than my thoughts. I feel like film/drama gives the audience an insight on people’s lives and can showcase the emotions they cannot express. I work on one project at a time so I do not lose focus.

9) Where do you draw inspiration for your works? Any particular filmmaker, actor or artist you look up to?

Cinema is my life. I’ve always loved watching movies since I was very young. People who have inspired me are Akira Kurosawa, Ingmar Bergman, Steven Spielberg, Marlon Brando, Meryl Streep, Leonardo Da Vinci to name a few.

10) We have a lot of BL fans and members of the LGBTQ+ community as our avid readers. Do you have any advice or message to share with them?

There’s no gender for love. Be who you are, do what makes you happy and respect yourself!

11) Do you think that LGBTQ films and BL dramas are making any kind of difference to the societal perspective?

It helps to show different perspectives to the world and start conversations. People learn to accept themselves and others more than ever before by watching these films and dramas.

The BL Xpress would like to thank Mr. David Baginder for this opportunity!

Edited by- Gingerjiejie