Last year, Tina Satter released “Reality,” a powerful film about Reality Winner’s arrest. It used the FBI interrogation transcript to show Winner being questioned about leaking a classified document. Sydney Sweeney gave a great performance as Winner, an Air Force veteran who felt Americans needed to know the truth about their country, even though it cost her a lot. Reality Winner’s story is a reminder of the risks people take to do the right thing.
However, turning Reality Winner’s story into a comedy seems like an odd choice. That’s what Susanna Fogel’s new film “Winner” tries to do, but it feels misguided from the start. Emilia Jones plays Reality Winner with a heavy Southern accent, making jokes about her name and using humor that doesn’t really land. While there’s nothing wrong with different takes on the same story, this approach doesn’t seem to work.
“Reality” focused on a specific part of Winner’s life, but “Winner” goes back further. It shows her interest in languages, her time in the Air Force, her relationships, and her work as an NSA contractor.
The script by Fogel and Kerry Howley highlights her growing frustration with the government, but this doesn’t clearly connect to her decision to leak the document about Russia’s interference in the U.S. election. The film wants to show where Winner came from and what led to this big moment in her life, but these parts feel disconnected from the main story.
In “Winner,” there isn’t much of a story arc. The film starts with Winner’s arrest and her saying she was trying to reveal the government’s lies. However, her character goes from distrusting the government in the first scene to still distrusting it by the end.
Throughout the movie, we see why she has issues with the government, but none of this explains why she thought leaking the document was the solution. It seems like every time she gets disappointed by the government, it surprises her again.
Cast in the film (YouTube)
Fogel and Howley add a lot of unnecessary narration that tries to keep things light and humorous, but the jokes are weak and often just state the obvious. While it’s not fair to compare “Reality” and “Winner” directly, “Winner” feels like it’s trying to build up to a story that’s already been told better.
This makes the arrest scene lose the tension it should have. Turning such a serious story into a comedy isn’t easy, and the film’s jokes often miss the mark, hurting the impact of the story.
Although the expanded look at Winner’s life doesn’t always work, it does give some strong supporting performances, especially when it shows her family. Zach Galifianakis plays Reality’s father Ronald, showing where Reality’s drive to do the right thing comes from.
His role demonstrates Galifianakis’ skills as a serious actor. Kathryn Newton, playing Reality’s sister Brittany, shows how Reality’s actions affected her family and their support for her. Emilia Jones does a good job as Winner, but the script doesn’t do her any favors.
The film does well in showing what happened after Winner’s arrest, including the effect it had on her family and the lack of public impact. For such a significant choice, the disappointing response it gets is tragic, making the aftermath one of the film’s most effective parts.
Between “Winner” and last year’s “Cat Person,” Fogel has taken on challenging projects but hasn’t quite nailed the tone these stories need. “Cat Person” was a mix of awkward romance and comedy that didn’t stick to the original story well. “Winner” is an even bigger mess because it doesn’t give a clear reason why we needed a backstory for Reality Winner, or why a comedic take was necessary.
The best moments in “Winner” are after the arrest, which are also the most serious parts—a sign that the lighter approach might not have been the best choice. It’s disappointing because, as a co-writer on “Booksmart,” Fogel showed she could handle a tricky concept—a touching and funny story about two best friends. But the careful attention to tone and what the story needs just isn’t there in “Winner.”
Winner Movie Scene (Big Beach)
“Winner” is an interesting idea that quickly turns into a confused film. As a comedy, it doesn’t work, but it has moments of drama that do. “Winner” had potential, but both “Cat Person” and this film show that Fogel might not have been ready for such a tough task.
Winner” attempts to take Reality Winner’s serious and dramatic story and make it into a comedy, but the film struggles with tone and purpose. While it offers some insight into Winner’s background, it fails to connect her life experiences to her choice to leak a classified document about Russian interference in the U.S. election.
The film’s humor often falls flat, and the narration tries too hard to be light-hearted, which detracts from the gravity of Winner’s real-life situation. Although strong performances by the supporting cast, like Zach Galifianakis as Winner’s father and Kathryn Newton as her sister, add some depth, they aren’t enough to overcome the film’s tonal inconsistencies.
The post-arrest portion of the film is where it finally gains some traction, highlighting the personal cost of Winner’s decision and the lackluster public response it received. This section underscores the emotional toll on Winner and her family, making it the most effective and poignant part of the movie.
Despite the ambition of Susanna Fogel in tackling this project, “Winner” doesn’t quite deliver on its premise. It leaves viewers wondering if a more focused dramatic approach might have been the better choice to tell Reality Winner’s complex story.
Gmmtv’s We Are to Love for Love’s Sake, 2024 has been an incredible year for BL dramas, with new series impressing audiences worldwide. This genre, which dives into romantic relationships between male characters, has gained massive popularity for its heartfelt stories, diverse casts, and evolving representation.
From lighthearted comedies to deep emotional dramas, this year’s BL offerings cater to various tastes. Both emerging talents and experienced actors have delivered memorable performances, enhancing the appeal of these shows.
The growing global fanbase has driven increased demand for BL content, resulting in higher production standards and exciting new collaborations. Streaming platforms are now fiercely competing to provide the latest BL dramas, adding to the variety available to viewers.
In this roundup, we spotlight the top 20 BL series of 2024, showcasing those who have made a significant impact. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned fan, these series are sure to offer unforgettable moments.
1. Unknown
Wei Qian has carried the burden of being the family’s provider since the tragic loss of his parents. He not only cares for his biological sister, Wei Li Li, but also adopts a brother, Wei Zhi Yuan, whom he treats as his own. To support his siblings, Wei Qian risks his safety by engaging in illegal activities.
Unknown (Credits: Viki)
With the help of his loyal childhood friend, San Pang, Wei Qian eventually finds a better path in life. However, things take a surprising turn when Xiao Yuan confesses his feelings for Wei Qian and kisses him without warning. This unexpected act angers Wei Qian, leading him to send Xiao Yuan abroad.
Despite his initial anger, Wei Qian soon realizes that something feels incomplete in his life. The emotional connection between them begins to blur the lines of brotherhood, leaving them both questioning whether they are merely siblings or destined for something deeper.
- Aired : Feb 24, 2024 – Apr 20, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 12
- Cast : Chris Chiu, Kurt Huang
- Streaming Platform : Gagaloola
2. We Are
For this group of friends, university life brings challenges, but academics are the least of their worries. Between love, misunderstandings, and personal growth, their lives are filled with chaos that keeps them constantly on edge.
We Are (Credits: GMM TV)
Despite the strong bond they share, their relationships are a confusing mix of affection and rivalry. They argue they support each other, and sometimes they cross boundaries that leave them questioning their true feelings.
The line between friendship and romance blurs, and the tension often results in heated moments. They may be friends, but they can’t help hitting on each other, turning their interactions into an emotional rollercoaster.
- Aired : Apr 3, 2024 – Jul 17, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 16
- Cast : Pond, Phuwin, Winny, Satang, Aou, Boom, Marc, Poon
- Streaming Platform : GMM TV (Youtube)
3. My Stand In
Joe, a stuntman for the famous actor Tong, unexpectedly crosses paths with Ming, and their relationship quickly deepens. However, Joe is unaware that Ming only sees him as a substitute for Tong. When the truth comes out, Joe is heartbroken and accepts a job abroad, where a tragic accident claims his life.
My Stand In (Credits: iQIYI)
Miraculously, Joe wakes up in the body of another young man named Joe, who had also suffered an accident on the same day. With the support of those around him, Joe starts living a life eerily similar to his old one, crossing paths with familiar faces—including Ming.
Ming, who remembers everything about the original Joe, is determined to uncover the mystery of Joe’s new life. Desperate for closure and understanding, Ming tries to reconnect with Joe, offering him the explanation that was once left unsaid.
- Aired : Apr 26, 2024 – Jul 12, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 12
- Cast : Poom, Up
- Streaming Platform : iQIYI
4. Love for Love’s Sake
Twenty-nine-year-old Tae Myung Ha’s life takes an unexpected turn when he’s mysteriously transported into an online game, inhabiting the body of a nineteen-year-old character. In this new virtual world, he is tasked with a mission: to bring happiness to Cha Yeo Woon, a talented and admired young athlete.
Cha Yeo Woon, despite coming from a modest background, has earned a national reputation through his success in track and field. His striking appearance and athletic prowess make him popular among his peers, though he harbours personal struggles beneath the surface.
Love for Love’s Sake (Credits: TVING)
Cheon Sang Won, born into a wealthy family, complicates matters as he becomes emotionally drawn to Tae Myung Ha, creating tension in his growing bond with Cha Yeo Woon. Meanwhile, Ahn Kyung Hoon, a quiet and introverted figure, provides Tae Myung Ha with unwavering support in his quest.
As Tae Myung Ha follows the intricate dynamics of these relationships, he faces emotional challenges that blur the lines between the virtual world and reality.
- Aired : Jan 24, 2024 – Feb 1, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 8
- Cast : Lee Tae Vin, Cha Joo Wan, Oh Min Su, Cha Woong Ki
- Streaming Platform : TVING, Netflix
5. I Hear The Sunspot
Sugihara Kohei, struggling with a hearing disability, often feels isolated and misunderstood in his campus life. His inability to fully connect with others leads him to withdraw and keep his distance from those around him. Everything changes when he meets the lively and compassionate Sagawa Taichi.
I Hear The Sunspot
Taichi’s kindness and optimism break through Kohei’s defences, reassuring him that his hearing loss is not something to be ashamed of. Taichi’s words bring comfort, helping Kohei see himself in a new light and slowly open up emotionally.
Though their bond is somewhere between friendship and love, it has a profound impact on Kohei. This unique connection helps him observing life more confidently, changing him forever.
- Aired : Jun 26, 2024 – Sep 11, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 12
- Cast : Nakazawa Motoki, Kobayashi Toranosuke
- Streaming Platform : iQIYI
6. The Trainee
Passionate and driven, Ryan secures an internship as an assistant director, where he crosses paths with Jane, a seasoned AD known for her ability to cool down people’s fiery passions. Ryan, overwhelmed by the intensity of his own emotions, finds solace among his fellow trainees: Ba-Mhee, an account executive, Teh, an editor, Pah from the art department, and Pie, who works in production.
The Trainee (Credits: GMM TV)
As Ryan immerses himself in his training, he begins to see a different side of Jane—one much kinder and more caring than her reputation suggests. His admiration for her grows, and before long, Ryan’s heart starts to skip a beat whenever Jane is near.
Determined, Ryan sets his sights on winning Jane’s heart, making it his personal mission to break through her cool exterior.
- Aired : Jun 30, 2024 – Sep 15, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 12
- Cast : Gun, Off
- Streaming Platform : GMM TV (Youtube)
7. Only Boo!
Kang runs a curry rice (khao kaeng) stall at a local school, where he often interacts with Moo, a twelfth-grade student with big dreams of becoming an idol. Between idol training and school life, Moo spends his free moments trying to win Kang’s affection, despite their age difference.
Only Boo (Credits: GMM TV)
Moo finds himself torn between his desire for love and his ambition to debut as an idol. As his dream gets closer to reality, he faces the harsh reality that relationships are strictly forbidden for idols. This leaves Moo grappling with the difficult choice between pursuing his feelings for Kang or realizing his lifelong goal.
- Aired : Mar 31, 2024 – Jun 23, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 12
- Cast : Keen, Sea
- Streaming Platform : GMM TV (Youtube)
8. Century of Love
San has devoted his entire life to waiting for the reincarnation of his beloved, Wat, who tragically died a century ago. Bound by love and the mystical power of the five shades stone, San is cursed to find Wat in a century, or else he will face eternal death. As the final year of the century approaches, San grows desperate, knowing time is running out.
Century of Love (Credits: One31)
During this critical period, San encounters Vee, a carefree and charming young man whose unexpected presence unsettles him. At first, San is repulsed by Vee, dismissing him as unrelated to his quest.
However, Vee is much more than he seems. Beneath his frivolous exterior, Vee is actually the reincarnation of Wat—the person San has been longing for all these years. Now, San must come to terms with this revelation before it’s too late.
- Aired : Jul 10, 2024 – Aug 8, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 10
- Cast : Daou, Offroad
- Streaming Platform : Netflix
9. Boys Be Brave!
Jung Ki Sub’s temporary stay at Jin Woo’s place becomes an extended arrangement, turning their living situation into a complex blend of friendship and growing feelings. As roommates, Jin Woo struggles to hide his crush, creating tension between his emotions and their friendship.
Boys Be Brave (Credits: Viki)
The drama delves into themes of unrequited love and the challenge of deciding whether to confess feelings or preserve their bond. This internal conflict drives the narrative, highlighting the delicate balance between personal desires and maintaining a valued relationship.
Directed by Lim Hyun Hee, the series features Kim Sung Hyen as Kim Jin Woo and Nam Si An as Jung Ki Sub, supported by Ahn Se Min and Jung Yoo Hyeon. The blend of humour and emotional depth makes for an engaging watch.
- Aired : Apr 25, 2024 – May 16, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 8
- Cast : Kim Sung Hyun, Nam Shi An, Ahn Se Min, Jung Yeo Joon
- Streaming Platform : Viki
10. Perfect Propose
Hiro is overwhelmed by work, and struggling to eat or sleep properly. One day, he collapses on the sidewalk from stress, only to be approached by a stranger claiming they had once promised to marry each other.
This mysterious figure, Kai Fukaya, insists on being Hiro’s fiancé, sparking confusion and curiosity. Hiro is left wondering about the nature of this unexpected relationship and Kai’s true intentions.
Perfect Propose (Credits: Fuji TV)
As the story unfolds, the focus shifts to unravelling Kai’s background and understanding why he is so determined to step into Hiro’s life as a fiancé. The situation forces Hiro to confront his own challenges and the complexities of this sudden commitment.
The drama combines elements of romance and mystery, exploring themes of unexpected relationships and personal growth against the backdrop of Hiro’s demanding work life.
- Aired : Feb 2, 2024 – Mar 1, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 6
- Cast : Kaneko Shunya, Nomura Kota
- Streaming Platform : Viki
11. Wandee Goodday
Dr Wandee, heartbroken and drunk, finds himself entangled with Muay Thai fighter Yoryak Phadetseuk. What starts as a one-night stand evolves into a casual “boyfriends with benefits” arrangement.
Despite the agreement to keep things light and pretend, unexpected feelings begin to surface. Both struggle to accept these emotions, as they each have someone else occupying their hearts.
Wandee Goodday (Credits: GMM TV)
The story follows the blurred lines between casual and real relationships, with tension growing as the pair grapples with their unresolved emotions. The fake relationship adds complexity to their personal struggles.
This drama touches upon the theme of messy, unpredictable nature of love, as the characters confront their true desires while trying to move past lingering attachments.
- Aired : May 4, 2024 – Jul 20, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 12
- Cast : Great, Inn
- Streaming Platform : GMM TV (Youtube)
12. Ossan’s Love Returns
Haruta Soichi and Maki Ryota, recently married and back from Singapore, struggle to balance work and household responsibilities. To ease their domestic burden, they hire a housekeeping service.
Ossan’s Love Returns (Credits: TV Asahi)
Unexpectedly, the person who arrives to help is the retired Kurosawa Musashi, a figure from their past. His presence stirs up old feelings and introduces the possibility of a renewed love triangle.
As Haruta and Maki observe their new domestic routine, they must contend with the complexities of their past relationships and the impact of Kurosawa’s return on their marriage. The story shows whether their evolving dynamics will reignite old tensions or strengthen their bond.
- Aired : Jan 5, 2024 – Mar 1, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 9
- Cast : Tanaka Kei, Hayashi Kento, Yoshida Kotaro
- Streaming Platform : Gagaoolala
13. 4 Minutes
Great, a university student from a wealthy family, unexpectedly gains the ability to see four minutes into the future. This newfound power allows him to change the outcomes of various events, altering his life in unexpected ways.
As he oberve this supernatural ability, Great meets Tyme, a resident surgeon. Their initial encounter sparks curiosity, and they slowly start to build a connection, getting to know one another.
4 Minutes (Credits: One31)
As their relationship develops, Great’s power adds both intrigue and complexity to their growing bond. The mix of personal discovery and romance drives the story forward, with the future always a few minutes ahead.
The drama blends elements of supernatural foresight with romance, as Great and Tyme’s relationship deepens amid the mysterious turns of fate.
- Aired : Jul 26, 2024 – Sep 13, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 8
- Cast : Bible, Jes
- Streaming Platform : iQIYI
14. Kidnap
Desperate for money to afford his brother’s medication, Min turns to a dark path and takes a job as a kidnapper. However, when ordered to kill the wealthy young man he has abducted, Min struggles with his conscience.
Unable to go through with the murder, Min decides to deceive his employer, claiming the job is done. Instead, he secretly brings the kidnapped man home to hide him.
Kidnap (Credits: GMM TV)
As Min juggles the dangerous lie and the weight of his actions, tension builds as he risks everything to protect both his brother and the victim. His decision complicates his life even further.
This gripping narrative follows themes of morality, desperation, and redemption, as Min grapples with the consequences of his choices
- Aired : Sep 6, 2024 – Nov 22, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 12
- Cast : Ohm, Leng
- Streaming Platform : GMM TV (Youtube)
15. My Love Mix-Up (Thai Remake)
Atom, a shy and awkward student, secretly harbours a crush on Mudmee, the girl sitting next to him in class. His hopes crumble when he borrows her eraser and notices the name of another boy, Kongthap, written on it.
Things take an even worse turn when Atom accidentally drops the eraser, and Kongthap sees his own name on it. Misunderstanding the situation, Kongthap assumes that Atom has a crush on him.
My Love Mix-Up (Credits: GMM TV)
This mix-up leads to a series of awkward and humorous encounters, with Atom caught in the confusion. His unspoken feelings for Matmi complicate the situation even more.
The story adds humour and lighthearted drama as Atom follows through the misunderstanding while wrestling with his real feelings for Mudmee.
- Aired : Jun 7, 2024 – Aug 23, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 12
- Cast : Fourth, Gemini
- Streaming Platform : GMM TV (Youtube)
16 The On1y One
Sheng Wang’s life becomes difficult after transferring to a new high school, where he immediately clashes with classmate Jiang Tian. However, things take a shocking turn when Sheng Wang’s father and Jiang Tian’s mother decide to marry, making the two boys stepbrothers.
As they adjust to their new family dynamic, Sheng Wang and Jiang Tian must observe the ups and downs of school and home life together. Tensions run high as they figure out how to coexist under one roof.
The On1y One (Credits: Netflix)
Amid the chaos, an unexpected romance begins to blossom between the two boys, adding a new layer of complexity to their relationship. This surprising development leaves them wondering how it will affect their bond.
The story follows the challenges of family, school, and love, questioning whether their newfound feelings will bring them closer or tear their family apart.
- Aired : Aug 22, 2024 – Sep 26, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 12
- Cast : Liu, Benjanmin
- Streaming Platform : Netflix, Viki
17. Sugar Dog Life
Sakuraba Isumi, a short, baby-faced university student known for his cooking skills, and Amasawa Kyosuke, a tall, easygoing police officer, find their lives intertwined in an unexpected romance.
At twenty, Isumi is mistaken for a minor and almost taken into custody by Amasawa. They later cross paths again at the convenience store where Isumi works part-time. Amasawa frequently asks for snack recommendations during late-night visits.
Sugar Dog Life (Credits: TV Asahi)
Worried about Amasawa’s eating habits, Isumi suggests cooking for him. As Isumi visits Amasawa’s home to prepare meals, their bond deepens through shared moments over home-cooked food.
The story beautifully shows their growing connection, blending the warmth of homemade meals with the evolving relationship between the two contrasting personalities.
- Aired : Aug 4, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 10
- Cast : Tanaka Koki, Tawada Hideya
- Streaming Platform : Gagaloola
18. Jazz For Two
After the death of his older brother, a brilliant jazz pianist, Han Tae I loses his will to live. He finds transfer student Yun Se Heon, who plays jazz reminiscent of his brother’s music, to be an unwelcome distraction and irritation.
Se Heon, who is also trying to escape his strict classical music professor father, suspects Tae I of having a questionable relationship with his friend Seo Do Yun. Both are assigned to the same group for a joint performance evaluation, adding to the tension between them.
Jazz For Two (Credits: TVING)
As Tae I and Se Heon practice together, their initial animosity gives way to complex emotions, and they start developing feelings for each other. Their growing connection faces challenges, especially with the return of Song Ju Ha, a senior student who was previously suspended, and now, trouble is stirred up between them.
The drama weaves together themes of grief, forbidden love, and personal struggle, as Tae I and Se Heon observe their evolving relationship amid external pressures and unresolved issues.
- Aired : Mar 26, 2024 – Mar 29, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 8
- Cast : Ji Ho Geun, Kim Ji Kwon
- Streaming Platform : iQIYI
19. Love Is Better the Second Time Around
Business editor Miyata Akihiro invites renowned university professor Iwanaga Takashi to write a column for his publication. When they meet, Miyata is shocked to recognize Iwanaga as his first love from high school, though Iwanaga was known by a different name back then.
Love Is Better the Second Time Around (Credits: MBS TBS)
While Iwanaga seems eager to reconnect, Miyata is reluctant. He had ended their relationship abruptly under mysterious circumstances and has since tried to move on. Balancing a busy career and a current girlfriend, Miyata finds his life increasingly complicated as he works closely with Iwanaga.
As they collaborate, Miyata’s carefully managed world begins to collide with his past, creating tension and emotional upheaval. The story observes whether Miyata and Iwanaga can reconcile their past and start anew amid the chaos of their intertwined lives.
- Aired : Mar 6, 2024 – Apr 10, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 6
- Cast : Hasegawa Makoto, Furuya Robin
- Streaming Platform : Viki
20. Love Sea
Tongrak, a successful romance novelist, is on a journey to find inspiration for his latest book. During his travels, he encounters Mahasamut, a frustrating yet mesmerizing southern Thai man.
Love Sea (Credits: GMM 25)
Despite their initial clashes, an unexpected night together leaves Tongrak intrigued and emotionally entangled. What began as an irritation soon develops into a deeper connection.
As Tongrak realizes his newfound feelings, the encounter with Mahasamut challenges his perceptions and inspires his writing in unforeseen ways. The story dives into how an unexpected romance can transform and influence one’s life and creativity.
- Aired : Jun 9, 2024 – Aug 11, 2024
- No. of Episodes : 10
- Cast : Peat, Fort
- Streaming Platform : iQIYI
