Although Happy of the End is a dark and heavy watch, I honestly really enjoyed it. It's actually my first Japanese BL series, and it definitely didn't disappoint me, the storyline and acting were both top-notch.
The show follows Chihiro and Keito, two characters with pretty rough pasts. Chihiro is a homeless guy who was disowned by his family for being gay, while Keito works as a scout and was exploited as a child. They meet at a bar, and what starts as a seemingly normal encounter quickly spirals into something intense and dangerously unconventional.
One thing that stood out to me is how unapologetically raw the series is. It doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of the characters' lives; there's violence, exploitation, and a lot of emotional weight. It's not an easy watch, but that honesty gives the story a sense of realism and depth that's hard to find.
At its core, the show is about Chihiro and Keito slowly opening up to each other. Their bond isn't about fluffy romance, it's about shared pain, loneliness, and a deep need to feel like they belong somewhere. Watching their connection grow, through subtle glances, hesitant touches, and quiet moments of vulnerability, was incredibly moving.
Visually, the series is stunning. The dark, gritty urban setting really adds to the feeling of isolation and despair the characters face, but there are also these surprising moments of beauty, especially in the scenes they share together. The cinematography and music do an amazing job of setting the tone-melancholic, but with a thread of hope running through it.
While there's definitely a thriller element thanks to the dangerous world they're in, the real focus is on the emotional and psychological journeys of the two leads.
Happy of the End isn't your typical feel-good BL. It's not for the faint of heart. It's intense, emotionally charged, and at times pretty tough to watch, but it's also incredibly rewarding. If you're in the mood for something that goes deep and isn't afraid to explore the messier sides of love and life, this one's worth checking out.