Two Thai BL shows about politics have earned spots on my list of best series this year: “Mandate” and “Shine.” I was disappointed with "Mandate," though, because it felt slow and even dull at times; a shame, since the performers did well and the narrative has significance. “Shine,” in contrast, proved much more enjoyable due to its consistently engaging and absorbing storyline. While I didn't care for Mile and Apo’s performances in “KinnPorsche,” they seem to have developed their skills. Still, Peter Deriy really stood out with his impressive acting as a newcomer. The series takes place during the political unrest in Thailand in 1969, and because it portrays that period authentically, there's violence, cruelty, sadness, and loss present. Unlike many other Thai BL series where “love heals everything,” "Shine" feels more realistic because some scars don’t fully disappear. This isn't the typical lighthearted BL fare; instead, it functions as a depiction of modern history wrapped in a BL story. If you want to learn about Thailand beyond its beaches and nightlife, this might be worth checking out.

Source on TMDB