High School Frenemy (2024)

Skynani ATE

I never NEVER leave reviews but I honestly think this is one of the best works from gmmtv like EVER????????
Cast, chemistry, music, everything is PERFECT.
No cringy scenes whatsoever or any debatable acting, this is seriously a must watch.
Now let me talk about both Sky and Nani… OH MY GOD!!!!!!! Their chemistry is INSANE, one look and I was screaming at the screen. I don’t wanna be that type of person but I will, their chemistry is wayyyy better than some actual bl couples out there.
Apart from that, their acting is TOP TIER!!!! Seriously, they made this series what it is and it’s all thanks to their acting.
I’m so happy they are getting the recognition they deserve, so go ahead and don’t miss the opportunity to watch this!

Citeste mai mult

I know, I know. I'm super late with this one. To be honest I was just going to keep it for a set of micro reviews (as if there's anything micro about any of those, sigh), but well. *looks down* Yeah. So here I go.

Oh my gosh this show. What can I even say about this show. Gird yourself because you think I was long winded before? Ha, you don't know long winded.

The thing is that this show was completely off of my radar. To the point that I don't even remember if there was a mock trailer for it at some point, and to this day I don't think I've seen the official one either. The only reason that I bothered watching is that one of my mutuals was telling me about it and I said, "huh, this reminds me of School 2013 I think it was. I watched it because of my undying love for Lee Jong Suk." To which they replied, "oh yes, I think it's an adaptation of that."

And since I had watched that one and remembered liking it well enough, I decided to binge watch the first eight episodes (all that were out at the time).

I've never been so happy for an "eh, I guess" watch in my life.

Because this show was so good. Part of it is the source material - School 2013 was an excellent show that explored themes of friendship, the pressure that students are put under by parents to succeed, the trouble people get themselves into when they are desperate...it's just great. And this show explores that as well. Part of it is the cast - everyone was amazing even though I will never stop being mad that I loved Foie's Mr. Sung as much as I did - but in the end what it is is the same thing that got me with Peaceful Property: this show has heart.

What I loved most about this show is how hard it fought the idea that is so prevalent today that people are stagnant. That is a lesson that I really wish we had more of in today's world - so often we're willing to hate others forever based on something they did years upon years ago, often with very little evidence that they've continued to do so as they grew older and ultimately, wiser. So often the thing that we are holding against them happened when they were teenagers. And so often those opinions have changed. But we don't account for that, and neither do some of the teachers (most notably the Vice Principal) in this show. They see Class 2 as a project, or irredeemable thugs, or lazy and unmotivated. And Class 2 isn't really interested in changing that belief.

It isn't until someone actually expects them to do better - not demands it to get money for the school, but because they know that they are capable of it - that the kids start to change. But it's not really changing, as Mr. Sung points out later. It's that they're growing up. As we all do. And finally, they're doing so in an environment that is allowing them to actually grow.

But it's not jus the kiddos who are learning. It's the adults too. Because shockingly enough, we don't stagnate after we hit 20, either. So many people in this show are in the process of change. Of striving to be better. Of learning - sometimes hard - that their way of doing things isn't the only one, or even necessarily the right one.

Not that everyone in the show did change. Jeng remained a dick throughout, and I appreciate that, because while I do love the heartwarming message the truth is that some people actively choose to make the wrong decision and then keep on that path regardless.

At the heart of the show, though, was friendship. Fractured friendship that is being mended, tested friendship, new friendship, and friendship that is so fierce it causes people to reach down into the darkness swallowing you and yank your stubborn ass out by force, even if they have to enlist the help of every single person in the class to do it.

Shin and Saint's friendship was of course front and center, and I adored it - these two are so ridiculous about each other in the absolute best way, and I think we all knew that Shin was never actually that mad about Saint breaking his leg but about breaking his leg and then leaving him - not only taking his dream but also taking the one person, ironically, who could have made it bearable: himself. The amount of pain all over Shin every time he saw Saint's big pleading puppy dog face was enough to know that, but if we didn't get it they then had him literally scream it at him (to be fair, pretty sure Saint didn't get it. He's lovely but also kinda dumb, poor thing). Their friendship was the glue that held the show together, and it was threaded throughout even when they were barely talking or had worked things out and then somehow managed to adopt the rest of the class as their unruly kiddos. They were glorious, and both Sky and Nani did such an excellent job that I immediately put Wu on my to watch list even with that absolute farce of a mock trailer. I will watch anything these two are in together, BL or not. And I genuinely did watch most of HSF without shipping Saint and Shin, although by the end I was convinced that no they're in love actually (Shin absolutely is aware of this and Saint is not. See lovely but dumb). GMMTV's first branded bromance pair? I'd be down for it.

That said, Saint and Shin's friendship wasn't the only one in the show that got me. Eve and Peeta did too, as did Airy and Eve. I liked them a lot - Eve and Peeta's friendship is being tested a bit by her overbearing mother sticking her big foot in where it isn't wanted, but I really loved that when it came down to it and Peeta was starting to fall apart Eve only cared about her well-being. I also really liked that despite the initial dislike and distrust between the girls from the different schools, Airy was actually a really good friend to Eve, level headed and giving decent advice when she and Peeta were in the middle of falling out. I also liked the way she and Tangmay went to bat for Eve when they thought that Jan had kicked her out of the Thai competition due to preferring Peeta instead, and then apologized when they learned they were wrong.

The one friendship I did not expect to feel so much about was Ken, Knot, and Nate, though. I thought they were going to be just a trio of hapless bullies, there to be fought against and not much else. But no. Instead of making them two dimensional bullies and not much else, they made them well rounded human beings who adore each other to pieces, who clearly bonded because they feel like they have no one else (this is especially shown in Ken's case, that dude's dad sucks). The way that Knot begged both Nate and Ken to please think about their futures because he loved them so much. The way that Knot and then Nate pretty much dragged Ken out of Jeng's gang by the scruff of his neck (with help from Saint and Shin, resident Batmen and aforementioned coparents to a bunch of kids only a couple of years younger than them). The way they rallied around him and were willing to do just about anything to help him out. That's love, and it won me right the fuck over with ease.

Ken in particular got me in a damn chokehold. The way his face would get whenever anyone treated him like a friend always made me feel a bit teary. And the way that he really did start trying once he realized that there were more people than Nate and Knot on his side, and that he didn't actually have to fight the world.

I also really need to take a moment to talk about how amazing Mark Pakin was as Chadjen. Just an amazing performance. I really hope that he gets at least a nod for it.

I guess this turned into more of a love letter than it did a review, but whatever. The show was amazing and I loved it. The only criticism I have is that I feel like Ken's father's turn around was a little too pat. I do like that the kids weren't the only ones learning lessons and changing, but I don't buy that one conversation with Ms. Jan took Ken's dad from drinking too much and saying things like his son would never amount to anything and it was a waste of time to care about him to sincerely wanting to make an effort. I also wish that we'd seen at least some of how Shin's mom went from very reluctantly allowing Saint back into their lives (understandably, to be honest, considering everything) to making him food and treating him once again like part of the family. I have my own thoughts about it, and we didn't have to see it, but it would have been nice.

Citeste mai mult

Should Be BL, Not Bromance!!

There is longing but no proximity, shy glances and smiles that melt into friendly banter, flirtations turning into friendly leg pulling are both fun to watch and painful to endure, because the main leads look like they are in romantic love but both going “nah!”

With actions, strong and headstrong teen characters, drama and tumultuous feelings this show is a blurred line between romance and friendship.

“High School Frenemy”, a Thai remake of Korean drama School 2013, is what we will call a typical “Shounen” phenomenon. It’s a story about muscle power. Two rival groups of rowdy young men, competing and trying to be the top dogs.

That is the same with its original parent story in Korean. But the rest are very very Thai.

And by Thai, I mean the relationship of the main leads, Saint and Shin (Sky Wongravee and Nani Hirunkit).

Read the complete article here-

https://theblxpress.wordpress.com/2024/12/11/high-school-frenemy-series-review-ep-1-to-16/

Citeste mai mult

Emotional "friendship" story

Well... the casts and the director said it is a friendship story, but, to me, this is a censored BL.

Anyway, that is not really the main point of the story. It is a powerful coming of age with life struggles that would fit every generation. Big kudos to the screenwriters for making a 2013 still relevant to this day and age.

The cast is superb. Every main and most of support members are A+ actors and actresses. Main ones that I need to mention:

Mark Pakin as Chadjen is the star of the show. Though he is not the main leads, in my mind, he is one of the mains given how important he is to the story and the presence as he delivers all those lines!

Sky as Saint: We know Sky can act, and he meets the bar. Personally, his role is not as challenging as the two Marks, but I would have to give him a big round of applause for being able to show the different colors of Saint - the two alter egos of Saint ans Tsunami - so seamlessly.

Nani as Shin: I have never been a fan of F4. Hence, I have not seen his work before. However, the fact that he matches Sky level of acting skill, and being able to portray strong yet emotional character without me being annoyed? Im loving it! Also, his facial expression and the eyes are so captivating.

Mark Ji as Cable: Now, as a person who has gone through a phase of GAD, Mark really captured that moment. Its just one scene in the series that made me go - man! That boy has skill!

Lastly, I LOVE that scores in this film. Not many original soundtracks but everything fits so perfectly!

This is not the show I am going to rewatch anytime soon because it is super heavy, but it would be something that I cherish! Please GMMTV put this on youtube for the Thais. VIU app is such a mess...

Citeste mai mult

They created a home

As a BL fan, I must admit that I see boys couples everywhere… and that some very close friends can sometimes act like actual boyfriends, just like happened —in my opinion— in Stay With Me. But bro, this is so gay. They really wanted us to ship them so hard since the very beginning.

It is probably one of the series I watched with better quality, with everything —sound, image, camera… The acting was perfect, the best I’ve watched in all the characters —maybe except Miss Jan, I really dislike how she acts, but never mind—, everything was great.

About the story itself I can say it’s quite simple, as it is about a problematic class with troubled students and new teachers who are trying to make it work and dealing with two boys who happened to be best friends and now, one of them hates the other. Although they did great as they made a 16 episode series that’s never boring, which is not easy to do.

I have to say that I really liked the way they handled the problem between Shin and Saint, as I can really feel the tension and see how much Shin wants to push Saint away. Also, how Saint never gives up on getting his best friend back, is so admirable and precious. I really think they did great with it. I felt like I needed more time in Jack & Joker before they make up for it to feel realistic. Here they nailed it.

I loved how they brought the friends importance, and even if I can’t really buy all the teachers suff —about them going to clean Miss Jan’s house just to make her go back to school or going the whole class to tell her she changed their life—, I really loved the evolution between the students, once rivals and enemies, to friends. I loved all the way how they took care of Ken, going to his house to be his bodyguard for him to be safe. They are the best.

So, there’s not so much more I’d say about this series. I loved it so much, I loved Shin and Saint’s friendship —even if it felt sometimes as romance more than bromance—, also them two with Chingching, Shin’s little sister; how Chatjen is always taking care of all of them and saving the situation more than ones. Of course I loved the twins with all my heart, but I got a weak point when it comes to them so I cannot say more. I so glad Shin’s mom forgave Saint and called him dear before they leaved for the match.

What else can I say? We had an almost kissing final scene, even if they had to push the other away —‘cause it is a non BL series— but we could all feel the tension and the love between them —you can choose what kind of love.

So I guess that would be it. It was so good and I finish these series with so many happy moments and great memories. I want to congratulate GMMTV for creating such an amazing series. I can be a fan of so many actors, but you know, I real fan, will always be a GMMTV fan.

Citeste mai mult

Fights, Friendships, and Bromance Stuck in a Time Capsule

High School Frenemy is a refreshing Thai drama released this year, offering a mix of friendship dynamics, school life, and conflict resolution, all wrapped in a "troublemaker student" narrative. The show effectively balances its core friendship themes with moments of bromance, although the latter feels outdated and underdeveloped in today's context.

The drama's exploration of troubled youth and their relationships is commendable, but the bromance angle, while initially engaging, becomes off-putting due to its overly restrained portrayal. There are moments that clearly call for deeper romantic elements, but the show hesitates, giving the impression of a 2010-era production rather than a 2024 release. The chemistry between Shin and Saint holds potential and, if explored further, could elevate any future projects they undertake together.

While the storyline occasionally falls into predictable patterns, the characters' conflicts still provide a satisfying emotional payoff. Some situations feel exaggerated but are essential to the overall narrative. The fight scenes, integral to the plot, are decently executed, though still teetering on the edge of cringeworthy at times, they align with the premise and tone of the series.

One standout aspect is the character of Chatjen, who emerges as the glue holding the friendship and the story together. Without resorting to physical force, Chatjen's actions and quiet determination drive much of the plot. Seeing Mark take on this role after his performance in Only Friends is a treat; his acting versatility shines here.

The drama’s 12-episode format is a welcome change from the recent trend of shorter Thai BL series. However, the show suffers from unnecessary filler scenes, making some episodes feel drawn out, I found myself skipping nearly 40% of the content. Despite this, the series is still more engaging than recent releases like Sunset x Vibes and The Rebound, to name a few.

Overall, High School Frenemy is an enjoyable watch with a strong premise, albeit slightly bogged down by dated bromance tropes and cringe-worthy moments. Its solid plot and heartfelt exploration of friendship make it a worthwhile addition to this year’s Thai drama lineup.

Citeste mai mult

I expected more

The boring version of school 2013

I'm sure many would hate me for this but seriously as much as I wanted to love this, compared to the original this was so lame, and after giving it a few chances, I decided that this version isn't for me.
Now I loved school 2013 (k.ver.) so I somehow unintentionally kept comparing the two in the back of my head, and sadly I couldn't rule out for this version.
The characters are so tuned down, the bullies looks so softie and the bullied characters didn't gain my sympathy, the main thing I was excited for was Foei because I loved his character in the original series and wanted to see his interpretation for the character and somehow he did well enough to keep me watching most of it.
Now, is it a bad drama? No.
Is it unwatchable? Still no, but i had a hard time watching it, what helped big deal was the acting, and the flow of the story, and the fast pace, it manages to help me watch longer than I thought I would.
Still, it failed to keep my attention for a long time, I found myself zooming out while watching and this is probably the worst thing that can happen to me.
Generally not a bad series, compared to the original it's worse, but still watchable, the actors delivered and I would recommend it for the cast, but personally, and judging the drama as a whole I didn't like it very much.

Citeste mai mult

Delinquents with hearts of gold

I was browsing my favourite dramas (one of which is School 2013) here on MDL when I saw this remake.

I am not above admitting that I squealed (and proceeded to watch all the episodes released).

They made some changes to the original while keeping the most important parts. The change is just enough to make the story seem new to me, without straying too far from the core of the story. I also really like what they did about the class in order to add tension and conflict. (I do however sense that a bit of nuance from the characters have been removed, but I'll take it for what it is.)

The acting is top-notch (the guy who plays Shin? Brilliant. I somehow love Shin even more than in the original). The love-hate relationship is, so far well-executed (I'm at ep 4), especially due to the acting.

The feel of the show is gritty in a way I adore.

Note: you need to suspend some disbelief regarding head-injuries. Most of the characters would be badly concussed in ep 1 if it was entirely realistic. It does have great entertaiment value, no matter how over the top it might be.

Note: they made a character explicitly autistic and I actually quite appreciate the representation. The way the characters act towards this character is slightly infantilizing, the acting quite heavyhanded– BUT they are KIND towards him and welcome him as a treasured member of the friendgroup. And that is really heart-warming, I think, and actually made me feel good about my own autism.

Citeste mai mult

FAST PACED AND NEVER A DULL MOMENT

If you’re into action series like weak hero or any school setting this is the one. I went into it with little to no expectations BUT i saw sky in the poster and realized this was his first ever gmmtv series and knowing sky from his past series, that man can ACT. i was curious to see what the storyline would be bc sky hasn’t acted in dramas since 2019 my ambulance where he was the ml. then i saw the lineup of casts here and saw familiar faces like nani, kay, aj&jj, june, view, and the teachers maria and foei. story starts off very tense already from the beginning til the end. soundtrack is amazinggg and let’s not get started on the leads acting. we all knew sky would deliver as he is an ex nadao artist but nani, in the past years to me never stood out until this series. Maybe it’s bc he’s now the center of attention in the series but my eyes kept drawing to him. he has shown his skills have improved a lot since his first ever series and i’m so proud. he’s a very hardworking person and i’m glad this series gave him an opportunity to showcase his talents and allowed people to acknowledge him even more for his acting instead of his looks. must i say his short hair is so 🤤🤤🤤. anyways supporting actors are also incredible starting from kay. i knew he could act bc ive loved him since school 2015: who are you. surprisingly he’s in both remakes haha but he’s amazing. the other supporting characters rlly make the series as well, it wouldn’t feel complete without their stories. lastly soundtrack is on top. they chose the most fitting songs for the right occasions. anyways skynani are dominating gmmtv rn and im glad to see bc they deserve it! can’t wait for their upcoming projects together and can’t wait to see them continue to grow as artists :)) please give this a try!

Citeste mai mult

This is a really great series - I wasn't planning to watch it but was intrigued by SkyNani at the GMMTV 2025 conference, so I thought I would give it a try, I watched the episodes so quickly and couldn't stop watching because it was too good! It seems to be a remake of School 2013 but I have never watched that, so I can't make a comparison. But High School Frenemy is fantastic - almost gives me Weak Hero Class vibes as well, with the fighting and intense bromance. SkyNani have great chemistry here even if it is only a bromance. But I would definitely recommend this to someone if they wanted to start watching Thai Dramas. 10/10 from me. I really enjoyed this series so much - It may just be a bromance but the chemistry was so good both with SaintShin and SkyNani. SaintShin felt more than friends, but less than lovers, more like friends who like each other but will never tell each other. And it had a perfect ending -I'm happy SkyNani will continue acting together. Even if Wu isn't BL and will be bromance again, their chemistry is too good to go to waste. Nani really surprised me tbh with how cute and shy he is irl and how intimidating he is in this series, Nani became my new obsession lately because hes so cute If someone asked me what to watch to start watching Thai series, I will now suggest High School Frenemy. SkyNani got a new fan because of this great series.

Citeste mai mult