The Boyfriend

If you have watched Terrace House, the setting will be familiar, as will some of the faces on the talking panel that comment on the happenings in the series. Instead of three guys and three girls, we have eight single gay men, ranging from 22 to 36, moving into a share house, looking for connection and love. This represents a huge step for Japan where most queer establishments remain discreet or underground, sending the message to queer Japanese people that they have to stay invisible.

The Boyfriend takes Japanese gay culture to the mainstream and on the biggest streaming platform, so its significance cannot be overstated. However, it suffers from a visibly low budget, which hampers the natural development of relationships between the men and results in a very static atmosphere. It makes me wonder whether the lack of funding has anything to do with the sexuality of the housemates.

The house pales in comparison to the luxury displayed in seasons of Terrace House, which allowed the housemates to go about their regular lives and their interactions were mostly unscripted. Here, the men are tasked with operating a coffee truck to earn extra income to supplement their daily meal allowance of 6000 yen, which is only US$5 per person. We also do not get to see them interact with each other in their natural environments outside of The Green Room.

Instead of focusing on the dynamics between the housemates, as we saw in Terrace House, there are banal distractions like negotiating the budget for one housemate's penchant for boiled chicken. With only one ostensibly queer person on the panel, almost serving as a cultural representative, the straight members of the panel were out of their depth when commenting about nuances between the gay men that they do not comprehend.

Of all the housemates, Usak, the Adonis gogo dancer, showed a moment of rare vulnerability when he expressed that he did not know who he was because he has been so dependent on meeting the expectations of others to the expense of his authenticity. This is true for many gay men and it arises from a fear of rejection. When they have faced rejection from family, community and society for as long as they have been gay, it seems unnecessarily cruel to set these men up for further rejection through gimmicks, such as writing each other anonymous letters, for the sake of creating drama and suspense, instead of encouraging direct and open communication.

Despite being a much belated pioneer of its kind in Japan, I struggle to rate The Boyfriend any higher due to its severe limitations. If granted the budget of Terrace House and a more diverse panel, it has the potential to be much better. It is still worth watching for one particular duplicitous and capricious heartbreaker of a housemate; he is the epitome of never "judging a book by its cover".

"The Boyfriend" marks a significant milestone as Japan's first same-sex reality show, bringing a refreshing and progressive narrative to the forefront of mainstream media. This groundbreaking series follows a group of single men as they navigate the complex landscape of romance and relationships during an unforgettable summer. With its innovative approach and heartfelt storytelling, "The Boyfriend" has captivated audiences and critics alike, earning a perfect score of 10 out of 10 on IMDb.

--- > Diverse Cast and Authentic Representation

One of the most striking aspects of "The Boyfriend" is its diverse and authentic cast. Each participant brings a unique background, personality, and perspective, enriching the show with a variety of stories and experiences. This diversity not only enhances the relatability of the series but also provides viewers with a more comprehensive understanding of the LGBTQ+ community in Japan. The show's commitment to authentic representation helps break down stereotypes and fosters a deeper sense of empathy and acceptance among its audience.

---> Emotional Depth and Real Connections

"The Boyfriend" excels in capturing the emotional depth and genuine connections that develop between the participants. The show doesn't shy away from the complexities and challenges of same-sex relationships, presenting them with sensitivity and nuance. The participants' interactions are marked by raw honesty and vulnerability, allowing viewers to witness the real emotions that come with love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. This emotional depth resonates with audiences, making the series not just entertaining but profoundly moving.

---> Stunning Cinematography and Scenic Locations

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Japan's beautiful landscapes, "The Boyfriend" offers stunning cinematography that enhances the viewing experience. The show takes full advantage of its scenic locations, from serene beaches to vibrant cityscapes, creating a visually captivating atmosphere. The picturesque settings not only serve as a beautiful canvas for the unfolding drama but also symbolize the fresh and liberating journey of love and self-acceptance that the participants embark on.

---> Thoughtful Storytelling and Pacing

The storytelling in "The Boyfriend" is meticulously crafted, balancing moments of joy, tension, and introspection. Each episode is thoughtfully paced, allowing the relationships to develop organically without feeling rushed. The narrative arc is compelling, with each participant's journey adding a new layer of intrigue and emotional resonance. The show's ability to maintain a consistent and engaging storyline is a testament to its well-executed production and direction.

---> Social Impact and Cultural Significance

"The Boyfriend" holds immense cultural significance as it challenges traditional norms and promotes inclusivity in Japanese society. By providing a platform for same-sex relationships to be openly discussed and celebrated, the show plays a pivotal role in normalizing LGBTQ+ love stories in mainstream media. Its success on IMDb reflects a growing acceptance and appreciation for diverse narratives, signaling a positive shift towards greater representation and equality.

---> Memorable Moments and Unforgettable Characters

The series is peppered with memorable moments that leave a lasting impression on viewers. Whether it's a heartfelt confession, a tender kiss, or a tearful goodbye, these moments are beautifully captured and leave a lasting impact. The characters themselves are unforgettable, each leaving an indelible mark with their unique stories and personalities. Their journeys of love, self-acceptance, and personal growth resonate deeply, making "The Boyfriend" a truly unforgettable viewing experience.

--> Conclusion

In conclusion, "The Boyfriend" is a trailblazing reality show that beautifully captures the essence of love, diversity, and acceptance. Its perfect score on IMDb is a testament to its exceptional quality, heartfelt storytelling, and cultural significance. By bringing same-sex relationships into the spotlight with authenticity and grace, the show not only entertains but also educates and inspires. "The Boyfriend" is a must-watch for anyone seeking a powerful and poignant exploration of love in all its forms, and it stands as a landmark achievement in the realm of reality television.

OK, so this is another show that shouldn't be judged by Western standards.

To American eyes, a couple of things might take some getting used to. The pace is often slow, the dialogue seemingly banal, and the subtitling awkward. Having a panel of five outside commentators is sometimes helpful, but just as often it's irritating (because some of the commentators themselves were kind of irritating, sorry).

But the fact that a show like this got made at all is a huge sign of progress. As an old gay man who is waaaaay too jaded, it was also refreshing, and a wake-up call, to see young gay men actually wanting to get to know each other and talk, instead of just jumping into the sack. I can only hope that Japanese LGBTQ teenagers who see this show will find it comforting, and maybe a revelation.

And Ikuo? Honey, if you ever need a sugar daddy...call me. :-)

Gay rights in Japan are several years behind the West, which makes this addictive 2024 reality series more intriguing than its surface concept implies. Nine handsome Asian (primarily Japanese) men in their 20's-30's are chosen to share a sleek beachside house in Tateyama, given the assignment of running a coffee truck, and provided a daily budget of ¥6,000. It's no surprise complications ensue, but the fact that same-sex marriage hasn't been legalized adds a layer of culturally specific tentativeness to the interactions of the participants. The ten-episode arc allows for personalities to bloom at a leisurely pace, and naturally both romance and tension intertwine in often arresting ways. It's like a gay "Terrace House" with the same Greek chorus of gossipy (albeit relatable) commentators as the previous Netflix hit series.

The show is very cute. It doesn't feel sleazy and gross like American/Western reality Love shows. It shows the other side of being gay outside of just sex and drugs. Sometimes gay men are misrepresented as just that. The plot and the cast feels genuine. Not just to keep the attention of the viewer. Also shows the dynamic of the cast and how it is when it comes to love or friends within the gay community. You also see the vulnerability of the cast about being accepted within society, family and even within their own LGBTQ community. Definitely a show I'd like to watch over and over again. Such a perfect and entertaining show to watch with friends.