GAY OK

Director Krisda Withayakhajorndet says it is time for authentic Thai series to shine

- ATIYA ACHAKULWISUT

Famed director Krisda “Pond” Withayakhajorndet — the creative force behind the global success of Kinn-Porsche The Series and the critically acclaimed historical thriller Man Suang — has recently caused a stir far beyond the entertainment industry.

He declared that it is time to embrace the power of “Thai gay series” and stop hiding behind the toned-down labels of Series Y or Boys’ Love (BL).

For years, Thai dramas featuring romantic relationships between men have been called Series Y or BL. These “cute” labels, originally from Japanese cartoons and light novels, have helped the genre flourish, endearing it to a wide audience especially female fans both domestically and regionally.

But Krisda believes that it is time to drop the euphemisms and embrace the genre's true identity. His recent declaration that his latest project, Shine, will be a gay series has triggered both enthusiastic support and lively debate. The drama series, chronicling the hopes and dreams of diverse people during the dawn of change in 1969, will be aired in August.

"Some people cheered on the decision, saying it is time to lift the cover, which may have softened down the genre and endeared it to the general public, and call it by its real name. Others suggested that I was simply trying to differentiate myself," Krisda said.

While admitting that he was surprised by the vibrant reactions, Krisda insisted he is not forcing the idea on anyone. He also expressed delight that the Y-series or BL labels have brought the genre this far and opened up a myriad of new possibilities for the LGBTI community.