My Stand-In

(I already wrote this whole review, but it disappeared, so here I am again.) When I first read the description of this show, I didn't understand it one bit, so I had no clue what I was going into, but I definitely wasn't expecting this. I laughed, I cried, and I yelled in complete frustration. It was a torturous cycle of emotions, and I loved every second of it.

There is the absolute sweetheart everyone loved, Joe, and there is a fairly controversial character, Ming; Joe stole my heart from the beginning; he is such a kind person with almost 0 flaws, while Ming, on the other hand, is filled with them. I am pretty lenient with main characters in films usually, but Ming brought out such a rage. I liked him, then I caught on and I hated him, then I hated him some more and more; he felt irredeemable. Nonetheless, I forgave him- he made me forgive him, I rooted for him, and in the end, I actually loved him. Were they toxic in the beginning? Yes, definitely, 100% but I think he really proved himself to be good at heart, despite others' opinions. This series is (my favorite saying) a must-watch.

Some toxic couple leads the protagonist to his own tragic death, but the destiny decides to give him another life chance at a reincarnation. Could be to deliver revenge? To fix the toxic relationship? Or to find the full truth about his own death?

Besides the toxicity relationship along the series, the actors worked with such great chemistry and the plot even when some details are missing, we can really enjoy a fantasy plot with such deep emotions about death, second chances, mother's love, and more.

Prepare yourself for a lot of angry moments, a real sadly touching moments but also great mystery during the series as the reincarnated one wants to recover his older life that is not longer for himself in that new body.

One of the top most-watched series of 2024, I cannot say this is a must-watch because I miss so many holes in the plot about reincarnation, but the production, acting and the development of the story does compensate a lot about the plot issues.

When I tell you this show had me hooked start to finish, I mean it. It was very, very entertaining. I cried, I laughed, and I yelled in frustration. It was a torturous cycle of emotions. Not at all what I was expecting either. I didn't understand the description when I read it, so I had no idea what I was expecting, but it definitely wasn't this. I could say so much about this show, but I won't, just that this story was executed perfectly. Lets applaud that ending for a moment, 👏👏👏👏.

Onto the controversial character; I'm usually pretty lenient with main characters in films- even the toxic ones- but Ming, man, he just pissed me off in the beginning. Even though I understood him, I hated him. I did start to like him though; it took a while, but I did- not entirely, but I did. Although he still wasn't perfect, he went through some serious development. I even found myself rooting for him. Honestly, my emotions towards Ming were all over the place constantly, but man he made me forgive him in the end. Still a brat, but I blame his family; I forgive him and love him. I love this show.

Initially, I wasn't sure what to make of it and almost stopped watching after the first episode because I thought it would be confusing. However, I'm glad I persevered, as the story eventually clicked into place. If you're tempted to drop it early, I encourage you to keep going.

One aspect I appreciate about this series is its portrayal of flawed characters, particularly Ming. While some viewers might find his actions hard to accept, I think it's refreshing to see realistic, complex characters. Ming's journey from a place of hurt and possessiveness to one of growth and self-awareness is compelling. Yes, he crossed a line by hurting and locking up Joe, and being a bad and insulting boyfriend at first. This made some of the viewers tough to watch. But what's admirable is how he acknowledges his mistakes, apologizes, and works towards change.

It's also heartwarming to see Ming realize his true feelings for Joe, distinct from his earlier infatuation with Tong. The character development and emotional depth make My Stand-in a worthwhile watch. If you are not into toxic story then don't watch this. Surely you can't handle this. It's a heavy series and not light.

But they can never make me like you Ming. Great delivery but the actor who played Ming. He was so hateful in the book and he delivered. Poor Joe , love is surely madness. I loved the series,I didn't skip anything and I usually do that when watching Thai bl. Great chemistry from the actors, great visuals, you could feel the feelings Joe felt. That role was well executed. I love me a Joe on and off screen. And Ming,Ming,Ming you were so annoying and you served that role. I can't wait for more from these two. Thumbs up to the production team and the writer. This was a gem. I don't want to repeat it though but would love to forget and rewatch it.