When you sacrifice your ambitions and goals to pin your hopes on the love of your life!

When I sat down to write this review, words failed me. I couldn’t comprehend how I should describe this life changing experience; because IT IS!!

There have been clandestine remakes and adaptations in the recent times; some praiseworthy, others not so much. Because crafting a remake of something that is remarkably well-made and popular isn’t easy. That’s where creativity comes into existence and “Top Form The Series” is a fine example of one such carefully constructed masterpiece. The allure that binds to the Japanese anime adaptation is unexplainable; to remake something that is comparable to its beauty is commendable. But what truly sets this remake apart is the casting. Adapted from the Japanese manga “Dakaichi: I’m Being Harassed by the Sexiest Man of the Year” by Hashigo Sakurabi, “Top Form The Series” is a low-key, high profile adaptation of the most popular manga work in existence. When the adaptation was announced, I was skeptical. GMMTV has been purchasing Japanese originals and remaking them with a consistency that borders on mediocrity. I was afraid “Top Form The Series” would meet the same end. Fortunately, teamed with an ensemble casting that deliver and a director who knows what he is doing with the main couple, we ended with topnotch storytelling and exemplary performances that are unparalleled.

Boom Raveewit as Akin aka Takato Saijou Reborn

Those who have watched the anime would know that Takato Saijou is unabashedly handsome and yet arrogant. Boom channels his charm in an alluring yet restrained manner. He knows his self-worth but isn’t arrogant. Boom’s Akin is patient enough to be respectful to his juniors who are rookie actors. Akin is alluring, proficient at his work and easily adapts to any kind of situation, he is a dream actor most directors would want to work with. Five times winner of “The Sexiest Man Alive”, he doesn’t take the title seriously and has developed a persona that befits his acting prowess. Boom’s Akin might seem similar to Saijou but it isn’t; the variable difference lies in the way he handles most situations. At times, his decisions seem questionable but at the heart of it, he can sacrifice anything for his close ones. Boom effortlessly breezes through his emotional connotations, they are true actor’s mark,and he delivers. There wasn’t a single moment throughout this masterpiece where I couldn’t connect with Akin’s struggles or mental duress.

Smart Chisanupong as Jin or Junta Azumaya Reawakened

If Junta could be awakened from his anime slumber and bought back to drama-land, then he would look like Smart Chisanupong. Like a golden retriever who is loyal to his Master, Jin latches onto Akin with a sincerity that is as deep as the ocean. His feelings stem from adoration and unwavering loyalty that he feels towards Akin. He is like a walking tornado, his only aim in life is being with Akin and whoever stands in his path would be destroyed, no matter what. Jin resembles Junta in his aggressive approach and Smart readily embodies that possessive nature. Jin’s single mindedness revolves around Akin; he raises to the top to stand beside Akin and if someone dares to take that away from him, he won’t mind switching to self-destructive mode. His life goal begins with Akin and ends with him. It’s been a long time that I watched such a super immersive character. Despite Akin’s misgivings, Jin always forgives him easily and understands his stance. No matter what happens, Jin never gives up on Akin; even in moments, when Akin himself loses trust in his abilities.

The Chemistry That is Indescribable

Akin is majorly portrayed as an aloof character, so it was fun watching him squirm when Jin goes silent. Obviously it was because Jin is sick and not because he was explicitly ignoring Akin. After all we got the immensely popular “Honey Trap Scene” because of it. If there is anyone who could forget the sensual candor of this scene, then definitely you weren’t paying attention. Everything from the color grading to their breathless coupling would leave you enchanted. Comparing it to the anime version seems unlikely, both versions have their own appeal. Smart & Boom have an effortless chemistry, they don’t to force it. Their mutual affection and camaraderie translates to great chemistry onscreen, and we as audiences are the winners!

Is it a Worthwhile Watch

“Top Form The Series” is a rollercoaster ride, high-strung on emotions and low on subpar content!

Smart and Boom deliver a highly charged performance, which is commendable and praiseworthy. I don’t think anyone else could have effortlessly replicated these popular anime versions as SmartBoom did. Director Boss Wasakorn must be applauded for not just sticking to the anime content blindly whilst curating a well-balanced mixture of new and old. This is one of those shows that you need to watch and believe in; hearsay won’t do. Walk towards this show without any expectations and you will enjoy it immensely!

Rating- 4 out of 5

Streaming on- WeTV