“KinnPorsche” Series Review (Ep.3 to 14)

Set in a picturesque backdrop that literally brags about the production value, the most celebrated Thai BL of all times- KinnPorsche ended on a high note last week.

Friendships were forged, enmities explored, a storyline ridden with deception and lies; this drama exploded on a global scale, taking the world by storm. With a talented crew consisting of phenomenal actors and a creative team that has raised the bar for future adaptations; KinnPorsche has become one of the highest rated BL’s in the current times (joining the ranks of successful GMMTV shows like Bad Buddy Series & Not Me Series). With its explicit storytelling style (that had no qualms about being overtly sexual) and brilliant cinematography, KinnPorsche is indeed a masterpiece. Join us, as we take a walk down the memory lane and reminisce the finest moments of this magnanimous production!

Yarnball

There’s a lot to love about KinnPorsche the Series. The casting is spectacular, with every single member of the main cast absolutely delivered in terms of performance and dedication to the role. Technically too, the cinematography is stylish and the sound design is very well done. In terms of production value, it’s one of the best Thai BL I’ve seen in a long time, if ever, and it’s clear that a lot of love and thought has gone into the making of this series.

However, I felt that the series could have delivered more in terms of plot. Going into the series with no knowledge of the novels or the way the story will develop, I was expecting… more mafia-ing in a mafia series. And that’s on me, because the series chooses to focus less on mafia power politics and more on the relationship of its titular characters, which is fine, but not what I was expecting to be watching at all. That said, it was satisfying to watch Kinn and Porsche grow from their rocky beginnings and through a myriad of misunderstandings to a power couple in their own right. Apo’s performance as the vulnerable, fierce Porsche is one of the best performances I’ve seen in a BL series, and he complements Mile’s sensuality really well too. I also really loved Vegas and Pete and their messy, dysfunctional relationship. It added layers of depth to Vegas’s character so he wasn’t just a one-dimensional antagonist, and Bible and Build have a great natural chemistry that shines in their scenes. Of the three main couples in the series, I may be among those who wasn’t particularly impressed by Jeff and Barcode as Kim and Porchay – not at all because of their performances, because they were fantastic, but because of the progression of their story – where they appeared to have some greater significance in the plot but ultimately didn’t.

In my First Impressions, I mentioned how Tankhun was my favourite character two episodes in, and another twelve episodes later, this opinion has not changed one bit. Tankhun is the best thing about this series and I wish he had more to do with the plot rather than ‘be eccentric’. That said, him and the entire supporting cast is so good I have nothing but praise for them, bringing their own unique takes on all the characters and making each of them memorable.

Basically, all my criticisms in the series stem from what I feel to be a degree of wasted potential. They had so many fascinating characters and opportunities to play with mafia politics, but somehow the pacing made it that the central conflict appears only in the last couple of episodes and is quickly resolved, leaving several unanswered questions and open ended plotlines and the vague promise of the being dealt with in Season 2.

Overall, I liked KinnPorsche a lot, I liked the characters and the relationships, but despite how much I wanted to love it, the plot (or lack thereof) stopped me from fully committing to it.

Sarinpai

KinnPorsche was proclaimed to be one of the biggest series this year even before it released, and not without reason. Other than a bit in between, it was strong throughout. The production was top tier on what I can only assume to be an extensive budget, the cast was charismatic, and they did justice to the mafia trope.

I had looked forward to and enjoyed most of the episodes up until the Tawan arc, where I felt that the plot dragged a bit, and afterwards, when Kinn and Porsche’s biggest enemy turned out to be a lack of trust. They had perhaps gotten together a bit too quickly, and there wasn’t much to do with their relationship after that except to have misunderstandings that got resolved quickly only to crop up again. I kept wishing during these times to see more of Vegas and Pete instead; there budding relationship had all the angst I was craving and more.

The last episode, though, turned things around again. It was bold and fun and everything I had come to love KinnPorsche for. Chay playing games while Kim is fighting off the goons in the background? Beautiful. Tankhun and Arm manoeuvring small toy trucks to cause explosions? Love it (bonus points to Tong’s lively portrayal of Tankhun; he was a constant source of serotonin for me throughout the run of the show). Kinn and Porsche were their badass selves, fighting in well-choreographed action scenes while the theme song played in the background. Other than a slightly badgering trope (why do both the protagonists and antagonists go guns blazing on nameless bodyguards but then stop and take their sweet time to chat with each other in the middle?), the last episode had a satisfying conclusion for both KinnPorsche and VegasPete (and a slightly more ambiguous one for KimChay), but left us with some loose threads that could be brought up in a mini-sequel in the future.

While at this point I don’t know too much about the second season and what the creators are planning to do with it, I do hope that instead of making it a full series that may possibly become a bit of a drag, they give us a short but thrilling take on the futures of the beloved characters.

PotatoBLChild

I had hoped I wouldn’t regret the rating I’d initially given the series.

All in vain.

My love for the artists involved in the series, the production value, and the music—all these things weren’t enough to help ignore the glaring plotholes in KinnPorsche A la Forte. Even without the few controversies surrounding it, the series had lost the charm (in my eyes, at least) it had in the beginning.

Don’t get me wrong; I am, for the most part, still fond of the show. I am particularly impressed by how well the actors held on despite how odd the second half of the series seemed. I loved the VegasPete scenes because they have incredible chemistry, and the fact that a lot of the gory non-con had been left out of the series certainly didn’t hurt. Kinn and Porsche were so beautiful, especially in the few episodes in the middle—the ones in the forest and right after were so good that I had to watch them again. After that, however, things changed (probably not for the better).

Kim and Chay were cute, too, but even with all the fluff, no one seemed to know where they were heading. Their arc certainly deserved to be better written. Hopefully, the second season will provide us with some more answers. However, I really loved the last few VegasPete scenes we got. I fiercely held on to my love for them till the end of the show, and it was worth it.

I think most viewers noticed that the episodes after the eighth one weren’t as well written as they’d hoped they would be. I remember wanting to throw something at Kinn when he forgot that Pete himself had taken on a dangerous, and there’d been no word from him since then. My patience wore thin from this point onwards, and it kept getting harder to watch Kinn and Porsche together after a point. I’m sure many of us realised that there may have been only one smart person in the entire show. With the exception of Tankhun, none of the main or supporting characters seemed to be making use of whatever decision-making skills they had left, and the plotholes culminated in what was the longest episode of the show.

The series looked weary as it reached its end, with a few more loose ends than I’d expected. The only thing that kept me going was my love for the cast and my emotional investment in the show. The production and the acting were good enough to keep it afloat. There are, however, some interesting and clever moments on the show (not going to spoil here). The announcement of a second season indeed raises hopes, and I pray that it lives up to our expectations.

Airen

To describe KinnPorsche The Series as wonderful would be an understatement. The way this series sets the bar on the highest level and makes you think that the Boys’ Love genre is evolving differently is remarkable. The tears and bloodshed by the entire team has paid off. The dedication shown by the directors, actors, and the production company makes this series stand out and this has generated a lot of love and support from the fans.

When in terms of the direction, acting, settings, screenplay, and stunning cinematography, even the smallest details such as background lighting, soundtracks, and props are well thought out. The writers have injected this awesome storyline with a dash of action, a pinch of comedy, sprinkled with romance, and delivered a total package that never fails to satisfy our urges. The overall production nailed the assignment.

The chemistry between Mile and Apo surpasses across your screen. This powerful couple live up to their characters and makes it plausible. Though I might be biased a bit, Kinn and Porsche are incredible; but on a serious note, nothing can outdo Vegas and Pete’s storyline (to think that their story was a bit rushed and started late). Bible and Build’s acting talents put on the edge of my seat. I am also left surprised by Jeff’s promising action scenes. This guy is going to be a big name someday. And of course, the entire cast, big or small characters, amplifies the impact of the series and makes it comprehensive.

When the series reached the finale week, I had separation anxiety. I’ve been quite attached to it and the ensuing weekend anticipation, but now that it’s done. My Saturday night will never be the same as before. The show had an open ending, yet seemed complete. There is some incoherent plot twist in the finale episode that is a bit confusing but at least in terms of the love stories, they ended it. There is no better way to bid goodbye than this, the way they put VegasPete’s happy ending after the credits, as if they are foreshadowing for the next season or a spin-off series for this side couple.

I am so delighted that the BL series nowadays put a lot of exertion, brainstorming, and appropriation to give us the best experience of watching the Boys’ Love genre. Now that the BL community is expanding and paving its path to being known worldwide without the stigma, this kind of series is making an impact as eye-openers and is also entertaining at the same time. Since one adjective would fail to describe KinnPorsche, let me give you three words.

Iconic, Top-notch, and a masterpiece!

MychelleLove

Mafia and BL in the same breath, is not something you hear every day and I, for one, have admired the way all the actors/actresses have brought to life the characters in the novel. Mile and Apo remained true in the renditions of KinnPorsche, as depicted in the novel. This is truly a very emotion driven series that took us on a roller coaster ride every weekend.

Kinn and Poesche are two complex characters. As the mysteries in their past lives unveil, doubts derail the passion train that was beginning to blossom between Kinn and Porsche. The way they opened up to each other and came to terms with their feelings for each other was phenomenal. They took the long and sometimes comical way to happiness and I was truly enamored with Kinn and Porsche’s camaraderie.

Vegas and Pete were another emotional couple, and I felt connected to their predicaments. I felt every raw motion they experienced. Vegas treating Pete like a lowly pet, then realizing his feelings and seeking redemption were powerfully impactful.

Kim and Chay are another couple I adored. As their beguiling story unfolded, I watched their romance and hoped against all odds that they would be together towards the end. But alas, they didn’t and I was left wondering about the consequences. Was their relationship ever salvageable? Both Jeff and Barcode played their roles well. Without undue words or unwanted conversations, their eyes reflected their innermost emotions. Watching this series, my heart broke a million times but was also healed a million more.

KinnPorsche was a long awaited dream come true as we finally got a concoction of ruthless mafia, bloodthirsty villains hellbent on seeking revenge, murders and fights as we mostly only see in mafia movies. Without sacrificing the BL part as well, everyone played their roles quite well and deserve applause as they made me believe every twist and turn!

KinnPorsche is a must see show with a high rewatch value.

I have heard rumors of a sequel and if so, I hope they take what they have already set in motion and move forward from there, to make the story come to a full circle.

SlimFastZombie

The idea of a mafia BL shouldn’t be as niche as it is. But then we have soccer BLs, swimming trope BLs, and reincarnated lovers BL. What “KinnPorsche” did was explode past our preconceived notions, by simply not being one. Yes, it’s Asian and features gay romance, but that’s really where the comparison between the adult dramedy and BL ends. It’s not up for debate, but if you wish to do so my comments are open.

Apo and Mile very much understood the assignment as they bought back to life, the book characters of Kinn and Porsche. Set against a beautiful and dangerous backdrop, where bullets fly often and people lie consciously, the two men navigate their status from ‘Frenemies’ to ‘Friends who bang’ to ‘Distrustful Lovers’ to ‘God Tier Couple’ with as much grace as an elephant in a glass shop. But really, that’s their charm. These two are by far the most original characters in the Thai BL industry brought to us by Be On Cloud. It could be the precocious moments where they are fighting, shouting, tripping over something, or making love literally anywhere. As the mood strikes them, they draw our attention. Actually, they’ve drawn the world’s attention by getting featured in news publications all over the world while becoming one of the most talked about a show on Twitter for weeks. Kinn and Porsche are the mood!

The only disadvantage was that there was a lot of detailing to be stretched across 14 episodes; which at times led to the plot getting lost in jokes, massive amount of characters, sexual innuendos, and mafia politics along the way. With new characters appearing almost every episode, it became hard to discern which storyline belonged to which character. We were gifted with a very few episodes that focuses entirely on either the couple or sometimes their subplots. But for most part the series is a bit of a mess if you look past the couples, one of which doesn’t even come into play till towards the end of the series.

Unfortunately, this creates a bit of a lopsided experience, as I realized by episode eight that the only way to enjoy this show was to suspend my common sense. When the relationship solidifies and all the characters are introduced, the plot reemerges, the mood has shifted as the lies are slowly exposed in a way that actually makes the light-hearted mood of the earlier episodes feel like a distant memory. Even the focus shifts more so towards Pete and Vegas played by Bible and Build (respectively). These two have a perfect chemistry and it helps because their romance isn’t as cute or sexual as Kinn and Porsche’s. It also has to compete with the mystery surrounding Porsche’s importance to Kinn’s father; as well as the machinations of the minor family led by Vegas for screen time, as the viewers continue to root for Kinn and Porsche.

Despite the lopsided screen time where characters pop in and out randomly; as well as Vegas and Pete’s non consensual BDSM to romance, the final episodes of the series brought a closure to the main storylines in a manner, that though predictable, was oddly satisfying. With an open ending that gives way to a second season (we have confirmation that it is coming), KinnPorsche is absolutely worth the watch.

Krishna Naidu

Have you ever stumbled across a treasure map and wondered where it will lead you to?

This is exactly the kind of emotion I experienced throughout the entirety of this show. Although I was in awe of the storytelling and risque cinematography; I questioned the ambiguity of the morally grey characters, fighting for survival or mere existence; while drawing strange comparisons between the textbook characters and the drama versions. Frankly, I couldn’t help it; although the drama series imbibes the novel’s essence quite well; each of the characters in the show has their own mindset. They aren’t mere embodiments of the original caricatures; but have an ingenuity that would definitely strike a chord. It will tug at your heartstrings, make you empathize with their situation and yet you will question their inconspicuous decisions. KinnPorsche isn’t exactly just an adaptation; it can reckoned as a masterpiece (though with a few loopholes or cliches). Now, no masterpiece is flawless and KinnPorsche definitely has its own deficits. But that doesn’t stop you from enjoying the show. It is like one of those gourmet dishes at a retro restaurant; expensive and incorrigible, yet delicious and addictive. You need to savor the preciousness of the few romantic moments sprinkled in between scenes where mass hysteria commences and the world goes dark. Now, I’m going to be dividing my write up into sections so we can talk at length about each couple as well as the interesting side characters that bought a distinct flavor to this mafia romance!

KinnPorsche

It is only right if we start at the beginning, because, after all, they are the protagonists. Kinn & Porsche are two contrasting characters that should have never been together in the first place (if it wasn’t for Korn’s schemes). As the entitled heir to the major family, Kinn has been burdened with the shackles of responsibilities all his life. He strives to be a perfect son to his ambitious Father, leads the clan and protects his idle brothers. In short, he lives in a prison of his own making; Kinn never betrays his own emotions, lest people will think that he is too soft-hearted. He is kind, caring and quite smart; but these are foibles that might get him killed in a world ridden with conspiracies, and Kinn knows he can’t be weak. He doesn’t trust anyone, but at the same time, he craves attention and love. He yearns to find that one person whom he can trust wholeheartedly.

Porsche is undoubtedly like the Phoenix; he has an indomitable spirit, is fiercely independent and is protective of his brother, Porchay. When Porsche is dragged into the mafia world unwillingly, his rebellious nature is triggered. He wants nothing to do with this dangerous world and yet he falls down the rabbit hole, because he is irrevocably drawn to the charismatic Kinn. The man drives him mad and yet he can’t deny their attraction. They are like fireflies attracted to the light; because each of them is hiding a darkness inside. While Kinn has major trust issues; Porsche is still recovering from childhood trauma. Trust in the keyword in this relationship. They recklessly fall in love while questioning the consequences, and yet their trust is fragile.

Kinn & Porsche in the drama are quite different from their novel counterparts. Kinn is more so, because the drama version doesn’t use the university setting whereby Kinn is also a student. The scriptwriters raised the bar by creating a new persona for Kinn wherein the character has a more mature demeanor and royal aura (as against the novel character who spends far too much tailing Porsche or having sex with him). They have personally curated Kinn’s caricature as a daredevil. Mile Phakpum’s depiction is so raw and powerful that it will leave a lasting impression on your mind. Apo Nattawin embodies Porsche’s reckless behavior and wild nature. It’s quite adorable how Apo and Porsche, both have their partners wrapped around their little finger (literally!). KinnPorsche’s relationship seems unrealistic and nearly impossible; and yet they strive against all odds. Love works in mysterious ways; where there is a will, you will find a way!

VegasPete

Inarguably, the most questionable romance in this entire series. But that’s what makes it so intriguing. Vegas is the most flawed character in this universe; he is arrogant, sharp like the edges of the knife and ruthless. He spends far too much time spying on Kinn’s personal relationships and craves the things that his cousin has. Undoubtedly, a morally grey character and hence, his romance with Pete makes little to no sense. Compared to his love interest, Pete is kind, innocent, honest and loyal. Despite being the head of bodyguards, Pete is somehow untouched by the cruelty of the world he exists in. This pureness draws Vegas’ attention because he has never met someone like Pete before. I’m not saying that Pete is entirely flawless, he seems to have issues of his own (a darkness that creeps out at times, but he keeps it hidden well). Until, of course he gets caught by Vegas and their narcissistic- masochistic BDSM playoff sets the stage for future romance. I love how the scriptwriters choose to soften the edges instead of depicting Vegas as a full-blown monster who treats Pete like a pet dog chained to his station. There is a veritable difference between the textbook Vegas and the drama one. Yes, he is as vile as the novel version when it comes to fulfilling his act as the heir to the minor family. But his ensuing romance with Pete is unusually different; there is consent when they first have sex and it’s pretty concerting because Pete initiates the act. Bible Sumettikul is an enigma; it’s not easy playing a villain with daddy issues, but he does it effortlessly. Coupled with his sexy accent, it will be a long, long time before we actually forget Vegas. Build Jakapan recently got embroiled in controversies for making reckless comments and that seems to have affected his candor online. But you can’t deny the fact that Build literally embodies Pete’s quibbles and was endearing in his portrayal of the lost soul who fought against all odds and managed the impossible- he tamed the Devil!

KimChay

There is a conversation in the novel where Korn compares his sons to himself and casually accepts the fact that Kim resembles him the most. Unlike Kinn & Tankhun who still reflect human emotions, Kim is absolutely cold-blooded and quite manipulative. He is also remorseless, which literally defines his actions for two-third portions of the series. Fortunately, Jeff embodies his attitude or this would have been a hit-or-miss situation. The romance is obviously sweet but also misleading. I admit to being sceptical about Barcode Tinnasit’s portrayal of Porchay. He seemed too green to be paired opposite a veteran actor like Jeff. I was worried that they won’t work. Yet, they proved me wrong and how?

You have to understand that the scriptwriters have totally revamped the KimChay romance as compared to the original content; where Kim & Chay are just a normal, bickering couple. They are the side couple intended to add flavor to the odd medley of grey characters that rule their world. In the drama series, Kim isn’t a school student clamoring for Porchay’s attention; instead, he is like an alpha wolf guarding his territory. He is mostly aloof, stays away from the family business while spying from the outside. Kim is a pretty mysterious person; you can never guess his intentions. Even his Father doubts him (and that’s saying something, because Korn is the worst of the lot). Porchay, on the other hand, is quite similar to his elder brother, though less reckless and mostly docile. He is thoughtful, mature and also secretly in love with Kim’s musical persona, Wik. Although Kim approaches Porachay with malicious intent, it doesn’t take long for him to fall in love with the sweet boy. The “KimChay” romance gutted me the most because by the end of the series, they are neither together nor get any closure. I’m unsure of how the scriptwriters will untangle this mess in the upcoming sequel. It’s obvious that Kim is repenting for his actions and wants to reconcile; but the million dollar question that remains- Will Porchay ever forgive him?

Side Characters & Villains

Tankhun, our resident fashionista/the only one with working brain cells

Although Tankhun is majorly interpreted as a character providing comic relief; he is more than that. Tankhun (Tong Thanayut) hides his smartness behind colorful clothes and fashion statements but he is inarguably the only sane person in this universe (so, that speaks volumes about the insanity inflicted by the other characters). He is also frighteningly honest and doesn’t mince words while pointing out the obvious. He is intelligent in his own way but chooses to hide lest he would have to take over the reins. He is also quite observant, insanely protective of his brothers, and frustratingly endearing. You can’t help but laugh at his dumb antics and yet he is a fresh breath of air in the stagnant mafia world ridden with schemes and plotlines. I’m really hoping that the upcoming sequel works on the Dr.Top- Tankhun- Macau love triangle; because seriously the man needs some romance!

The Korn/Kan/Namphueng (Tri)Angle

As ironic as it might sound, Korn is the most untrustworthy one in this lot. The ensuing confusion in the final episode absolutely supports this theory. Korn is crafty, the kind you need to be on the guard against. He is an expert at brainwashing, and it’s quite obvious that he is the main villain in the “Namphueng” tragedy. Kan isn’t exactly redeemable, because he is the worst kind of father possible. But there is one undeniable truth in this massacre story- Kan did love Namphueng. Whether he did molest Namphenung or not is doubtful; because we can’t entirely trust Korn’s testimony. He is used to distorting truths and as such, the reality might be quite different from the one presented- the one that both Porsche and Kinn choose to believe. Although Porsche doesn’t entirely trust Korn’s dubious nature, his affections for Kinn override his rationality. That’s something that Korn has been banking upon. The only three people who know the truth are Korn, Kan & Namphenung. Korn wouldn’t admit his mistake because he is clearly power hungry, Kan is dead and Namphenung is subconsciously ignorant of her surroundings.

The finale episode left us with more questions than answers. There were quite a few loose ends that need to be tied, everything seemed a bit rushed. Despite that, KinnPorsche will forever be celebrated for elevating the cadence of BL dramas. The high production value coupled with beautiful cinematography and a brilliant casting have set an unparalleled precedent that would be difficult to mimic or replicate in future!

Rating- 4 out of 5

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