For those who are looking for a vivid comparison between the Thai & Japanese version, fret not. We are at your service!

After a bevy of Thai remakes of Japanese adaptations (Cherry Magic & My Love Mix-Up!), now it’s time to watch the Japanese remake of popular Thai adaptation “Love in the Air”. If you have watched the original show, you might be reminded of the fact that it turned rookie actors Boss Chaikamon, Noeul Nuttarat Tangwai, Fort Thitipong & Peat Wasuthorn into fan favorites. Each of these pairings have a cult following and their popularity could be attributed to the NC scenes that are a part and parcel of most universe’s created by author MAME. When I first heard about the Japanese remake, I had my own doubts. Japanese BL actors can be categorized into two varieties- firstly the ones who are dedicated and go all the way in, which means they are extremely comfortable with their co-star and their NC scenes are phenomenal. Secondly, the ones who are in for fame and find it uncomfortable to even kiss their co-star. I kept wondering if the Japanese actors Nagumo Shoma, Hamaya Takuto, Suzuki Asahi & Nagatsuma Reo would be honest to the original interpretation? Would they be comfortable stepping into the shoes of the Thai actors who left a deep impression in the minds of avid fans?

Synopsis-

When clouds in the sky and falling rain tease the two close friends in trouble, Rei and Kai, it takes them to meet Arashi and Fuma, who are not only cunning saviors but also guys making storms in the two best friends’ hearts. The war of love is about to take place in the warm spring, hot summer, lonely autumn, and cold winter. How would the atmosphere of love be? Which way would their hearts wave, and the air full of love take them?

(Source: BLUPDATE2022 X)

Make Way For Shoma & Takuta

When you are reprising roles from a popular edition, there is a lot of pressure; because you have to either interpret the character in your own way or mimick the actions of the actor in the original. Nagumo Shoma is a class apart; his mannerisms as Arashi are quite similar to Boss’s Payu. The charm, arrogant attitude and sultry looks are similar, but yet his Arashi is quite different. Hamaya Takuto’s Rei is quite similar to Noeul Nuttarat’s Rain; the innocence, naivete and loudness are quite persistent. Shoma & Takuto strike a sensual chemistry which is sexy and irresistible. You can see the longing and yearning in Arashi’s eyes as he keeps a tight control on his emotions while seducing Rei. Rei for most parts is rebellious, and he seems to have a crush on his classmate, but he folds whenever Arashi is close. The pull and push is delicious and it’s hot watching these two actors reenact scenes from my favorite adaptation!

Asahi & Reo as Prapai & Sky

The jury is still out for this couple. As per the original premise, the pilot episodes are focused on Arashi and Rei. So, we don’t have much scenes between Fuma & Kai. The first two episodes do gleam over the close ties between Arashi & Fuma as well as Rei & Kai. The original adaptation had 13 episodes and the storyline was split into 2 parts. So, Fuma & Kai’s romance will probably start in the second half. I’m still unsure about the division; the Japanese version is trying to remain true to its origins, but they have incorporated certain new elements which uplift the overall mood and tone of the remake. For now, Asahi & Reo had one scene together, and they seem to have a decent chemistry!

Is it a Worthwhile Watch

I lose my breath, everytime Nagumo Shoma is on my screen!

The guy has an enigmatic presence and alongside Hamaya Takuto, they make a striking couple with an exceptional screen presence. If you thought Boss’ daredevil act was charming, then think again; because Shoma is breaking all barriers with his own rendition of Arashi- it’s hot, sensual and sexy. The show for most parts relies on the comic relief provided by Takuto; his comedic timing is spot on. The first two episodes have a consistent pacing and though the storyline seems similar to the Thai versions, the remake has its own charm!

Rating- 4 out of 5

Streaming on- Gagaoolala