I never read the graphic novel so I watched this blind. I only knew that this was LGBTQ themed.
If you know the word "Kilig" (a feeling of exhilaration or elation caused by an exciting or romantic experience.) aka butterflies in your stomach.. then that was my feelings all throughout the show. I love how sweet and cheesy this is and no explicitly detailed or not scenes. It's a teen version of hallmark movies but doused with a lot of sweetness and wholesomeness. This show is like a hug.
Sure it's predictable but there's nothing wrong with that. Sure we have the bully stereotypes scattered about but the emotions and awkwardness of love is accurate it overshadows it especially for teens experiencing first loves. I love the main characters they are too adorable. Great acting. I can feel the crush, the love, the awkwardness. The soundtrack is perfect.
Not rating it a 10 because Tao's haircut is a nightmare and some of the acting and line delivery from the side characters feel stiff and forced. The plot direction was fine there were some scenes that felt like it was just an insert like how it jumps if your read comics. They also have this weird tendency to focus all over the actor's faces which wasn't bad per say but sometimes it was done too long that it just felt cut off. I want to embrace the whole scene and not just their heads.
Overall it's easy to watch especially if you're looking for a light, sweet, and cheesy romance that will bring a smile to your face because it's adorable and wholesome. The portrayal of the LGBTQ community is also done well imo they added in the negatives that go along with it so it doesn't feel like they just inserted it just because but not to the point that it became the driving force of the story. Also even if you're not part of the LGBTQ community the scenes are easy to relate to especially for first love experiences. BIG PLUS as well for no unnecessary drama that is dragged out for long!!
Looking forward to the development of the other characters relationships for next season. Highly recommended.
