The results for this year’s “Top Ten BL Dramas” were surprisingly uncanny. When we are discussing the same in our group chatroom, one of the team members rightly pointed out “People looking for quality?”. That seems to be the lookout this year. Fans voted in full force for dramas that were unique in terms of their storytelling and truly impactful; and we are here to bring you the final verdict!

Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote. Check out the results below.

10) Laws of Attraction

Starring “To Sir With Love” fame actors Film Thanapat & Jam Rachata in lead roles, “Laws of Attraction” is enemies to lovers saga about a ruthless lawyer, Charn and Tinn, who is seeking justice for his niece’s untimely death. Though the script was loaded with pitfalls, Film won applause for playing a morally ambiguous character with certain ease. Complimenting him on this journey was onscreen partner, Jam whose conscious efforts to play a righteous man were equally praiseworthy.

9) Only Friends Series

One of the most anticipated dramas in 2023, “Only Friends” premiered to high expectations. Starring a phenomenal casting that involves big names like First Kanaphan, Khaotung Thanawat, Force Jiratchapong, Book Kasidet, Neo Trai and Mark Pakin; the show focused on some important questions- “How does modern youth conceptualize sex and relationships”, “Is sex a means to end or is there any emotional connectivity”. The show became hugely popular thanks to its crisp storytelling and abundant chemistry between the actors. Especially, Neo’s Boston became one of the most talked about characters in this history of BL dramas!

8) Be My Favorite

A somber, lighthearted romance, “Be My Favorite” gave us the fresh pairing of Krist Perawat & Fluke Gawin. Fans were eager to check out their chemistry and the couple didn’t fail to evoke love and appreciation; their natural chemistry paired with a tight story line was definitely uplifting. Time travel romances are tricky to execute and yet “Be My Favorite” was able to balance the time altering elements realistically.

7) Moonlight Chicken

Starring GMMTV favorites Earth Pirapat & Mix Sahaphap, “Moonlight Chicken” remains true to the magic evoked by Director Aof Noppharnach. An age gap romance, the show tells the story of restaurant owner Jim who has a one night stand with Wen. Gemini Norawit & Fourth Nattawat as Heart and Li Ming play up on their old school charm, portraying characters that have an odd yet heartening connection. First Kanaphan & Khaotung Thanawat complete the ensemble playing supporting characters that were varied yet immersive.

6) Our Dating Sim

Starring Lee Seung Gyu and Lee Jong Hyuk in the lead roles, “Our Dating Sim” delves into the “Friends to Lovers” journey of our main couple. Once inseparable, Lee Wan and Shin Gi Tae get separated when Lee Wan confesses his feelings and Gi Tae recoils. The show focuses on their reconciliation seven years later, when Lee Wan joins a gaming firm where Shin Gi Tae is the team leader. The two being in close quarters evoke old feelings that rekindle a flavorful romance. Both actors had an exceptional chemistry which was the highlight of this show.

5) Last Twilight Series

An unassuming romance between a debt ridden ex-convict and a blind national athlete, “Last Twilight” portrays a beautiful romance between main leads, Jimmy Jitaraphol & Sea Tawinan. Stemming past their comfort zones, both actors are playing characters that are varied and unique. Everything from the cinematography, settings to the storytelling is an enriching experience and the chemistry between the main leads is an added advantage. The show has the distinct “Aof Noppharnach” mark that will leave you riveted and spellbound.

4) I Feel You Linger in the Air

A historical melodrama that touches on the rampant homophobia in the Republican era, “I Feel You Linger in the Air” was one of the biggest of the surprises in 2023. Starring Nonkul Chanon and Bright Rapheephong in the lead roles, the show is Jom’s emotional sojourn as he time travels to 1920s Chiang Mai. Caught in an unfavorable situation, Jom is employed by Yai, the overlord’s son. As they grow closer, Jom is faced with a choice- his present or this unrecognizable past? Both Nonkul and Bright deserve applause for delivering a commendable performance.

3) Stay With Me

Another surprise package in 2023, which was promoted as a bromance with homoerotic tones. As the show gained popularity and because of the reckoning chemistry between main leads, Xu Bin & Zhang Jiong Min; the script was changed to portray a full fledged gay relationship between the primary couple. A censored remake of 2016 hit “Addicted Heroin”, the drama is an unlikely romance between stepbrothers, Wu Bi & Su Yu. Xu Bin & Zhang Jiong Min’s chemistry was much appreciated, which lead to remarkable ratings for the show!

2) My Personal Weatherman

2023 bought attention to the fact that these days, BL fans prefer mature romances. And it’s not just about having NC scenes, because that trope is so typical. Starring Higuchi Kouhei & Mashiko Atsuki in the roles of an arrogant weatherman and his bestowed fan, “My Personal Weatherman” is their romance as our endearing couple tide over morbid misunderstandings and lack of communication to gleam over their relationship issues. Higuchi and Mashiko make a beautiful couple; the chemistry speaks volumes about their offscreen camaraderie.

1) The Eighth Sense

Heartbreaking and traumatic, “The Eighth Sense” was definitely one of the most thought-provoking releases this year. Starring Lim Ji Sub and Oh Jun Taek, “The Eighth Sense” is a theatrical expanse portraying the unexpected romance between a senior and his new, countryside junior. College romances are nothing new, yet “The Eighth Sense” broke the mold by delivering an out of the box love story that spelled death, grief and healing. The way it handled trauma subtly was vivid and deep; poetic justice indeed!

Keep watching this space for the next announcement!