Another classic Thailand BL universe, where wealth and ostentation form the backdrop, is before us: Enchanté. A 10-episode 2022 production. The production tells a story of youth and school romance. The series actually contains a clear university and campus theme that can be watched. Nevertheless, the ostentation and “luxury fetishism” we are accustomed to in Thailand BLs are heavily present in this series as well. Nowadays, this has become a must-have for Thailand dramas.
Of course, in the series, neither the true face of city life nor the sincerity of everyday Thailand youth can be felt. The locations are sterile, cars are expensive, and characters are mostly like unattainable figures. Aside from all this, the chemistry and harmony of the “ForceBook” duo are very good. If I cast aside all criticisms, I think it is a watchable and original campus story.
🏳️🌈🇹🇭 Curator’s Suggestion: The best Thailand BL catalog
Enchanté (2022) Plot and Summary
The main character of the series, Theo, is someone who went to France for his education and lived there with his grandmother. However, when he loses his grandmother to the news of death received on his birthday, he returns to Thailand. His father is the rector of a famous university, and Theo starts the literature department at the same school. This return brings along not only a geographical but also an emotional return. Theo reunites with his childhood friend Akk, and the old bond between them begins to revive.
The note he writes in the book named Enchanté that he finds in the library sets off the events. Theo begins to search for the mysterious person responding to this note of his. However, things get complicated because, all of a sudden, four different people introduce themselves as Enchanté. This search causes Theo both to question the relationships surrounding him at school and allows the hidden feelings between him and Akk to surface.
The drawing closer of Theo and Akk is interwoven with classic BL motifs, I can say. Cut fingers, injury scenes, long gazes, shyness… They are all things we have watched dozens of times. Even though this situation makes the series a bit predictable, it is still an enjoyable production to watch.
Yet, why Thailand series do not progress through more “ordinary” characters, why they insist on such a wealth-oriented universe, is no secret. Because the audience is “idol-oriented,” and generally BL productions are watched for the actors.
Theo finds the real “Enchanté” and will express his feelings openly. This process will also allow him to mature. Since the story includes the theme of the discovery of love and identity, I had included it in my watch list. For this reason, I think it is worth watching.
Review and Commentary
On the other hand, the series treating themes such as friendship, trust, belonging, and emotional discovery is still a plus for the youth BL genre. Even though the acting performances occasionally feel artificial, you can focus on the series to understand the conflicts within Theo’s inner world.
Is the series worth watching? I would say yes to this question. Although it is a repetition of classic university youth themes, the chemistry of the characters and a cinematography shining in colorful and pastel tones give a complete youth vibe.
Theo is initially an emotionally closed and lonely youth in his own world. Akk, as his childhood friend, gives confidence and stands by him. The relationship between Theo and Akk transforming from friendship into love actually progresses quite simply. It is not a exhausting series. In my opinion, it is one of the stories worth watching that takes place in the youth and university capsule of the BL genre. I have also made my criticisms. With its good and bad sides, the series is with you.
Enchanté Series Information
Enchanté (2022) is a drama adapted from NinePinta’s novel of the same name. Especially for the global audience who has read the novel, the series will be more valuable. The series is officially available on GMMTV Youtube. More Information: It is available on the MyDramaList site. You can look there for technical information.
Let’s also look quickly at the actors and characters so it is done. Book Kasidet Plookphol – Theo (lead): The lead youth who returns to Thailand from France and is in a search for love and identity. Force Jiratchapong Srisang – Akk (lead): The lead, Theo’s old childhood friend and the reassuring support character. Fluke Gawin Caskey – Saifa: The student claiming he could be “Enchanté.” Aou Thanaboon Kiatniran – Phupha: The fourth candidate. The series continues with Theo searching for the mysterious Enchanté in the library, and eventually finding him. We will watch this search adventure. The romantic comedy theme is also in place, before I forget to mention it.
