A non-binary friend asked me for shows that don’t fixate on defining a clear “top” and “bottom.” It sometimes feels like we’re watching the same old heterosexual gender roles projected onto queer men instead. While these dynamics can play out in real queer relationships, reality is much more nuanced.

So here are some Thai BLs that are a little more expansive with sexuality and gender expression.

Shine

Premise: An economist returns to Thailand where he meets a free-wheeling musician. He faces impossible choices amid political turmoil in 1969

Shine is mature—in every sense of the word. The leads navigate their sexual identities during a time where being queer isn’t safe. It stands out for featuring a couple that switches roles during sex, which is practically unheard of in BLs. I loved the complexity of the characters, the depth of the story, and the beauty of the production (a must watch for retro music lovers).

Not Me

Premise: When his identical twin is brutally beaten, White poses as his brother to discover who hurt him and why.

The queer agenda(™) is calling and asking if you’re ready to revolt. This show doesn’t pull punches, despite the kitschy twin powers premise. It invites you to fight for queer rights, alongside disability and workers’ rights. There are multiple pairings in the show, each showing an equal measure of toughness and vulnerability. This show turned me into an Off-Gun fan.

Last Twilight

Premise: An ex-con starts working as a caregiver for a former athlete with severe vision loss.

This is such a feel-good show with great chemistry. There are power dynamics at play, but they are about disability instead of gender. It’s easy to root for these characters and the conflicts never feel contrived. I loved their warmth and emotional depth, especially as they navigated big changes together.

KinnPorsche

Premise: After saving a mafia man’s life, Porsche gets recruited to be his bodyguard. His job is unforgiving, even as love blooms.

The power dynamics in this show are wild. There’s still a lingering sense of the “top” and “bottom” dynamic, but I wouldn’t project a stereotypical straight romance onto them. If you’re into messy (but sexy) relationships, you’ll like this one. There’s one campy queer icon, but most of the queer men on screen lean masculine in presentation.

Moonlight Chicken

Premise: A chicken shop owner can’t shake off his one-night stand, despite his desire to avoid a relationship.

This is a show for people who love yearning. The lead couple yearns like no other, as they explore their growing feelings for each other. The side romance is also incredibly sweet. This show is more concerned with emotional vulnerability than gender dynamics, as each character must face their fears and dreams. I’m sentimental about this one and it warms my heart every time.

The Eclipse

Premise: A rebellious new student clashes with a school prefect as mysterious incidents threaten the balance at an all-boys high school.

With serious themes, this show is a cheeky entry into the genre. Other than a joke about who gets to be the wife, it’s more concerned about how these male students are hurt by the rigidity and authoritarian nature of the school than gender. The leads are captivating, brash, and vulnerable. I enjoyed their chemistry and their fight against censorship.

This article is written by Ruth’s Rec Room, adapted from one of her recommendation posts on Instagram.