My Love Mix-Up! was more than just a sweet and quirky BL series – for me –  it unlocked a door to a world of creativity and joy. My Love Mix-Up! introduced me to STARTO ENTERTAINMENT.  STARTO ENTERTAINMENT led me to creating this blog. This blog has introduced me to actors, artists, designers and so many other incredibly talented individuals. It’s incredibly special.

A SWEET AND SILLY LOVE STORY

Written by Wataru Hinekure and illustrated by Aruko, My Love Mix-Up! (Kieta Hatsukoi / 消えた初恋) is a Japanese high school comedy BL series about a slightly silly love story about hard working, good-natured high school students in Japan.

The Original series starred two members from two of Japan’s most popular boy bands. Aoki was played by the adorably hilarious from Naniwa Danshi while the Handsome and lovable Ren Meguro took on the role of Ida. 

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It was the first Japanese BL I’d ever seen and it’s become one of my most favorite.

A THAI-DORABLE ADAPTATION 

As such, I was incredibly skeptical about a Thai adaptation. However, knowing GMMTV was behind the production (they introduced me to the wonderful world of the Boy’s Love Genera with their 2019 supernatural hit He’s Coming to Me) did make me feel more at ease. As did the fact that Gemini and Fourth would be taking on the lead roles. 

After the success of My School President – the series that launched the ship of Gemini and Fourth – GMMTV announced the new Princes of BL would lead the Thai adaptation of beloved Japanese series.

Fourth is Atom (the Thai Aoki). He’s a bit more rough around the edges than Aoki is, but that devil-may-care attitude is a well-loved trait of the actor. Gemini is Kongthap; honestly, he was a perfect choice for the role. Like Meguro, he’s got that strong silent thing on lock – and GMMTV doesn’t skimp on playing up those similarities. 

While there are some noticeable differences, Kongthap plays basketball (not volleyball) and adopts a cat (not a dog –  sorry, Mametarro). There are some great similarities, too, like Atom wanting to punch Kongthap for stealing the heart of his female crush. Also, since the Thai episodes are about double that of the Japanese series in length (40 minutes vs 20), there is much more time for character development.   

Most notably the side characters. Puttipong Jitbut (Chokun) is adorably perfect as Half. He’s adorable and clumsy and carrying and very very funny. Pathitta Pornchumroenrut (Pahn) as Mudmee is another wonderful cast. I love how innocent and sweet she is but also how funny. 

Airing on GMMTV (and their official YouTube channel for international viewing) Fridays from 7 June  2024 – 23 August  2024, the series received mostly favorable reviews and one of the  best parts was how unabashedly queer-positive it is. 

Atom’s emotional awakening is just as innocently sweet and adorable as Aoki’s. Kongthap, while unsure about his feelings for Atong, isn’t afraid of them. Then, when he and Atom finally do get together wants to tell the word. 

A SWEETHEART SYMPHONY

While nothing will EVER top the candy colored sweetness of Naniwa Danshi’s UBU love or the sultry sex appeal of Snow Man’s Secret Touch GMMTV does know a thing or two about producing good music, especially when it comes to their BL Series 

There is a brightness to Fourth’s voice  while Gemini’s is like hot chocolate – smooth and delectable. 

The first music video released is for the series theme song ลบยัง (Re-Move On), which is cute and catchy, and the video is hysterical.

ดั่งวาดฝันเสมอมา (It’s you), performed during the play where Atom and Kongthap discover the truth of their feelings, is a beautifully crafted ballad mixing traditional Thai instruments with modern-pop flair.

Fourth’s first solo song, ว้าวุ่นเลย (Whenever I see you), is a perfect T-pop song – an enjoyable mix of happiness and fun.

A complete 180, Fourth’s second solo song, ใครคนนั้น (Among many people), is a tender romantic ballad. Also taken from the stage-play episode, it showcases the range Fourth has as a performer.

The first solo track from Gemini, ไม่เป็นฉัน (What I’m looking for), is another track that utilizes traditional Thai sounds with modern pop.

Gemini’s second solo song, ไม่รู้ว่ามันเรียกว่ารักหรือเปล่า? (You’ve been on my mind), also showcases his sweet and sultry voice.

As an adorable bonus CHINZILLA – the band from My School President – made a cameo appearance.

 BRING HOME THE LOVE

The boxset for the series, as well as other items featured in the series, are now up for pre-order through  eThaiCD. 

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Much like Cherry Magic, the GMMTV adaptation of My Love Mix-Up! was a rousing success. The next Japanese adaptation to be released will be Ossan’s Love, starring the supership EarthMix.

More BL reviews soon so… 

Stay Tuned!