Republican dramas have a charm of their own. Most of them are relegated to the timeline between the 1930s & 1940s, when western culture was slowly being adopted into the Asian subcontinent. These dramas feature settings that have traditional styles but modern vibes; costumes that betray the local culture whilst the citizens are adapting to a western mindset. Despite that, homophobia was still rampant and that remains at the forefront in most BL- themed shows.

Interminable

A mesh work of romance in two different timelines that aligns pretty well with the main lead’s chemistry!

A reincarnation saga with a twist, Kaewta is reborn without his past life’s memories when he was a traditional Thai dancer. He is introduced to Khun Yai when he inherits the spacious White Palace, left in his name by some unknown ancestor. In actuality, Khun Yai was a nobleman in love with Kaewta, but his untimely death hindered Khun Yai’s soul from being reborn. The show dives into their luscious past and love story with a veracity that leaves you speechless. Billy Patchanon & Babe Tanatat embody the pain and humiliation faced by their characters, in an era where same-sex relationships were spurned by society.

Memoir of Rati

A commoner falls in love with a marquis and their love is challenged by the taboo of social differences!!

Born as a commoner, Rati was adopted by the French ambassador and his Thai wife, who belonged to the nobility. Bought up abroad with modern values, Rati returns home to work as an interpreter. His chance meeting with Marquis Thee leads to unavoidable circumstances which invariably make them fall in love. But Thee’s Grandmother is strictly against their match as their romance is faced with social divides and prejudices. Great Sapol & Inn Sarin Ronnakiat captivate the audiences with a subtle romance that slowly blossoms over a reasonable amount of time, as they grow closer and end up falling in love.

I Feel You Linger in the Air

An intriguing time travel romance that addresses homophobia in the Republican times!

Jom, an architect renovating a historic house by the Ping River, discovers a chest filled with old drawings that seem strangely familiar. Although intrigued, he focuses on reuniting with his boyfriend, who returns from abroad and announces his engagement with a woman he got pregnant. Heartbroken, Heartbroken, Jom accidentally drives his car into the river and wakes up mysteriously in the 1920s Chiang Mai. Thereupon, he fakes an amnesia attack, when he meets Ming, a servant working for an aristocratic household. With Ming’s help, Jom ends up working for Khun Yai, the heir to the family. Faced with inequality and social divide, Jom grows disgruntled, but Yai always treats him with respect. While spending time together, Jom ends up falling in love with his employer. However, same-sex relationships are frowned on, especially when it involves someone of Khun Yai’s stature and their love is continously tested. Bright Rapheephong & Nonkul Chanon script a somber romance that is undeniably addictive!

Killer & Healer

A story that follows two men who are polar opposites; one kills while the other heals!!

A strong bromance with homoerotic vibes, “Killer & Healer” describes the budding relationship between Jiang Yue Lou who heads the Jingcheng Police Station and Yu Zhi, a compassionate doctor. They meet during troubled times while Jiang Yue Lou is cracking down on drug dealers. He suffers from bipolar disorder and doesn’t trust people easily. Although initially reluctant to undergo treatment, Yue Lou eventually opens up to Yu Zhi. Despite their differing values, they slowly become close friends. In the midst of rampant Chinese censorship, Mao Zi Jun & Ian Yi scripted a bromance that was far-reaching & flawlessly authentic. Their journey hinged on mutual respect and adoration. This show became an unforgettable sojourn that will be remembered forever!

Love in the Moonlight

A regal romance that steps into familial homophobia and societal prejudices!

Prince Saenkaew of Chansaeng is gay and restrained. He lives a constricted life under guilt since his mother’s untimely death. His father despises his sexuality and, as such, he is sent to Bangkok to marry Pinanong-a union that would help transfer the family’s assets to Thailand during a turbulent time. Pinanong loves Saenkaew but he doesn’t. Things get chaotic when Saenkaew meets Sasin, Pinanong hot, handsome cousin. As they engage in banter and measly squabbles, Sasin & Saenkaew grow closer, until they inevitably fall in love. Saenkaew is bonded by family obligations, his freedom to love is amiss. Sasin is daring and bold, he loves freely and doesn’t give up on their relationship, even when Saenkaew gives up on his love. The morbid love triangle grows thicker, coupled with political intrigue; we have a potboiler at hand. Pearl Satjakorn & Peak Peemapol have amazing chemistry; it has been a long time since I saw such a riveting love story!!

To Sir, with Love

A love that faces society rebuttal & rejection!

Thian is the eldest son and the legitimate heir to Jao Sua Song, leader of the Five Dragon Guild. They are a group of Chinese businessmen who have successfully established themselves in Thai society. Thian’s position is complicated by his father’s secondary wife, Jan, with whom he has a son, Yang. In Chinese society, masculinity is highly valued, and as such, Thian cannot betray any weaknesses. Things take an awkward turn when Thian accidentally meets Jiu. Their uncharacteristic meetings soon bring them closer and Thian is left questioning his feelings for the handsome man. But Thian’s mother is hellbent on securing his future, and she won’t allow him to be in a relationship with another man. Despite this being their first outing, Film Thanapat & Jam Rachata made a surprisingly long-lasting impression with their powerful portrayals & chemistry. You need to watch this show to understand the depth of their love!

Winter Begonia

A story that revolves around a Peking opera performer and a wealthy businessman who are brought together by their love for Peking opera!

Set in the 1930s, the story follows Shang Xi Rui, a Peking opera performer who relies on his exceptional talent to gain fame in Beiping. He is exceedingly beautiful and mesmerizing whenever he is on the stage. As he pours himself into mastering the art, wealthy businessman Cheng Feng Tai becomes deeply captivated after watching a performance for the first time. Shang Xi Rui’s performance evokes memories and Cheng Feng Tai becomes increasingly infatuated with him. Despite facing opposition from the locals, with Shang Xi Rui’s support, Shang Xi Rui builds Shui Yun Lou and trains a new troupe. The show encompasses political intrigue as the Japanese army invade Beiping in 1937. Shang Xi Rui and Cheng Feng Tai are moved to make sacrifices for their country. Huang Xiao Ming & Yin Zheng had an insanely powerful chemistry; the show was tagged as a bromance but their love story remains unhindered and unrestricted.

Keep watching this space for more features!