#uk makeup reviews

[rosemaryhelenxo]

RHXO Tips - How To Add A Bit Of Positivity To Your Life!

Everyone needs a touch of positivity in their lives, considering how much negativity we can encounter in our day to day lives. Sometimes staying positive can be quite a challenge, especially in these busy, cold and winter months. #positivity #selfcare

Everyone needs a touch of positivity in their lives, considering how much negativity we can encounter in our day to day lives. Sometimes staying positive can be quite a challenge, especially in these busy, cold and winter months. If your positivity begins to wane, and your sparkle dim’s a little – here are seven simple ways to bring positive energy back into your life.  Stop to enjoy…

[myoddessy]

soft launches are out?? | george clarkey

summary— where a household name of uk youtube meets an awkward comedian through a mutual friend and chaos ensues (bruna marquezine fc!)

December 2022

January 2023

liked by bambinobecky, calfreezy, taliamar, and 1,982,372 others

yourusername the 2022 cosmetic year-in review is out! i talk you through my makeup and skincare routines with my new holy grails as well as covering some products i'd recommend staying away from! 💞

wroetoshaw cheers, I'll keep the skincare tips in mind

yourusername you need it

wroetoshaw never contact me again

yourusername gladly ❤️

yn2sfan ship!!

ynslover disgusting.

faithlouisak best part of the year 💕💕

gkbarry amazing as always babes 😘

yourusername ❤

ynfanpage you look so pretty omg 😭

w2sdmn the fact that you used actually affordable products instead of smth that costs half a mortgage >>>

March 2023

liked by arthurtv, imalexx, freyanightingale, and 2,001,283 others

yourusername in honour of the first travel diaries episode in a year, have a little ibiza and madrid dump 💞

gkbarry my tan's fading already. criminal.

yourusername i'll take you back soon xx

gkbarry love u, sugar mummy ❤

max_balegde i feel like i'm intruding.....

gkbarry you are.

max_balegde you should all follow me after you watch this (pin this)

max_balegde i feel wounded and ignored.

ynsbabygirl OMG MORE SOFT LAUNCH CONTENT

ynily the height difference im inconsolable

wroetominter alexa play that should be me by justin bieber

yourusername just posted a story !

liked by myoddessy, lewisbuchan, taliamar, and 2,301,720 others

yourusername was nobody gonna tell me soft launches are out??

tagged: georgeclarkeey

georgeclarkeey ❤❤

imallexx thank god, it was getting a bit boring

yourusername hush

imallexx don't take away my rights

myoddessy @whoetoshaw OMG????

whoetoshaw WE CALLED IT.

ynxclarkeyy OMG PARENTS FR

[bullet-prooflove]

Meet The Writer! - Also a Year in Review

I don't usually do this but I thought I would throw up a meet the author post so you could get to know me a little more!

I think sometimes it's hard to remember that's actual people behind the usernames we see on our screens so I thought I'd pop up and say Hi.

So a few things about me:

I'm 36 heading towards 37.

I have a Master's in Creative Writing and run a very small, local social media company, which is more side hustle then income but I love my clients.

In April I came off my antidepressants for the first time in over a decade and it was like I could see the world in technicolour, music sounded richer to me and it completely changed my life.

I've struggled with mental health issues the majority of my life, the latest being August of this year when I had a breakdown which has led to a complete re-evalutation of my life. It made me very ill and I am still in recovery as we speak.

In August/Sept I started putting out my work for publication and have been published three times this year.

In Nov I quit my job working with teens in the care system due to a toxic workplace situation that caused my breakdown. This was truly terrifying as I am not entitled to any benefits because frankly the UK benefits system is a joke.

Doing this has given me the space to look at what I want to do moving forward. I signed up to a few places as a creative writing tutor and had my first client on 30th Dec. I honestly loved the experiance and have decided it's something all the time. So if you're looking for help with that pain in the ass manuscript hit me up!

I'm also developing a portfolio as a makeup artist and gel nail tech, things I wanted to explore when I was working full time but never had the chance to.

When I look back I can't believe how much has changed for me in the past year and I never envisioned that I'd be where I am now. There have been times when I've thought I wouldn't make it through the year but I did and I'm still here, still growing. I guess I hope that if there's anyone else out there, who has struggled or is struggling this resonates with you.

You're not alone, I've been there and so many other people have too. We are more than just names behind a keyboard and I thought it was just important to remember that.

Anyway I've rambled long enough!

Happy New Year to everyone who is trying to make it in this messy world.

[absolutebl]

This Week in BL - When good chemistry goes bad

May 2023 Wk 3 

Being a highly subjective assessment of one tiny corner of the interwebs. Organized by which ones (in each category) I’m enjoying most.

Ongoing Series - Thai

La Pluie (Sat iQIYI) ep 4 of 10 - yes it jumped to the top of the standings, the kiss was THAT good, best of the year so far. So soft and yet so sweet and yearning and with a proper chemistry - body, breath, everything. Also... there was plot happening this ep, but who cares about that? Some additional thoughts, now my brain has rebooted from that kiss. I do suspect Pat of still being a player: he is awful smooth, and he may want revenge for being jacked along for 2 years (I would). Ep 4 is early for a kiss like that, which means pacing-wise we may be in for a separation/break up around ep 8. 

Step By Step (Thai Tues WeTV & Gaga) ep 5 of 10 (MDL still says 12, but Gaga still says 10) - Pat, dear, your gay is squirting all over our screens. Meanwhile… That is the smallest presidential suite bed I’ve ever seen. Lucky for us of course. And lucky for Jeng. Me with the side dishes = UH OH. 

Our Skyy 2 (My School President) eps 9-10 - Alt reality where Tinn is in charge of the music club and Gun is the school president with the crush. Basically, it’s an excuse for them to play each others’ parts (which just highlighted how well they were cast, originally). Ultimately, Gemini is a better piner, and Fourth is a better tsundere. Although the reversed “holding it over his head” was v funny & Fourth IS a decent seme. (I also realized what I like so much about Fourth, like Saint he’s one of those rare full body actors.) Sound was a great uke and I loved how they changed his makeup for the role (did you notice?). TiwPor were as adorably ridiculous as ever. I liked the minor baby pairing for Aun, too. Still my NO SIGNING holds (although there was lots of dancing to counterbalance). In the end, all this really did was make me wanna rewatch the original. Which is not necessarily a bad thing. FYI The MV was a parody of HCTM, BB, 1k*. 8/10 

A Boss and a Babe (Fri YouTube) ep 12fin - It was a cute sappy ending for a cute-ish sappy-ish show. I cannot abide that the mom who condoned the rape of her daughter got forgiven. No. Stop it GMMTV. Review below. 

The Promise (Thai Weds YT & WeTV) ep 9 of 10 - I'm in trouble when I'm rooting for everybody BUT the main couple. I guess Nan doesn’t have a NO SINGING policy. Also I guess Nan was waiting for Phu all along? This show. ALSO could we not have just ended it here? 

Past-senger (Thai Weds Gaga) ep 11 of 12 eps - I don’t understand. What? Where did all these new characters come from? Do we care about the hets? Not even slightly. What is anyone doing? What’s going on? do I care abotu anyone anymore? No. Please make it stop. 

Ongoing Series - Not Thai

Our Dining Table AKA Bokura no Shokutaku (Japan Thurs Gaga) ep 7 of 10 - OMG so adorable, so repressed, so reserved, so soft, so awkward, so special. Heart melting. Also. Hungry. The WAY Minoru looks at Yutaka when he’s eating (now that he knows the history). The way we got to see the exact moment that Minoru realizes he is in love. Perfection. 

Star Struck (Korea iQIYI & Gaga) ep 1-2 of 8 - Zuho (Kpop SF9 - noted good egg) opposite rookie actor Kim In Sung (the one with the crush). icky is being weird about it but it looks like Gaga also picked it up? Depends on your territory I suppose. Anygay: Friends since childhood, jock/nerd, puppy/cat and I sense bi-himbo confusion and pining introvert gay. There’s family strife plus class issues and it has some interesting things to say already about the nature of friendship, romance, and jealousy. I like it, weirdly reminds me of something that might have come out of China. Not early CBL, but some of the later stuff that was censored but hearkened to Addicted. This has the feel of what China could have made now (were things politically different). Because of this feel, I’m not confident in this being an HEA or even a true BL but it is interesting enough for me to bump it way up the ranks. 

Happy Merry Ending (Korea Thurs Gaga) eps 7-8fin - I get why SJ pushed JH away, but I kinda agree that SJ is too much work. Abused or not, I wouldn’t put in the damn effort - so I guess I’m glad SJ took a year off to figure his shizz out? Far be it from me to agree with a year break in a Kdrama, tho. I didn’t even mind that they were separated most of these 2 eps: it was nice to see a Seme told no, who actually backed off and did as he was told. Plus the running of the gays (how Japan of you SK). I’m assuming that this was the final episode and that Viki thinking that there are 2 more is bonkers? Because this felt like a finale. For me this one had a stronger finish than any other aspect of the show (odd when the couple spent the bulk of it apart). Oh! And someone give Shin Myung Sung (the surfer bestie) his own damn BL, m’kay? Review below.

Love Mate (Korea Thurs Viki) eps 5-6 of 8 - Longest elevator ride in the world. Honorifics discussion! My favorite! And, “there is only one bed but they slept together on the floor anyway” trope. A BL staple. Also the tie/lanyard grab. Another fav. Still pushy puppy stalker remains creepy manipulative obsessive warped hotness. Basically KBL version of trash and… I’m into it. We all got our kinks, I guess. 

Vian the series (Vietnam YouTube ) - Such a cat. I’m reminded of Milk. It’s cute. They cute. I like it.

Naked Dinner AKA Zenra Meshi (Japan Fri Gaga) ep 6 of 12 - So is the nude dining meant to be some kind of weird allegory for repressed gayness? 

It’s Airing But ...

My Story (Pinoy Sat YouTube) 10 eps - I bounced at ep 4. Someone will tell me if I should bother with the rest. 

House of Stars (Thai Mon iQIYI) 12 eps - I bounced at ep 3. Will binge if told it is worth it at end. 

The Day I Loved You (Pinoy YouTube) eps 6-7 of 10 - Terminal illness for the sunshine. I bounced at ep 6. DNF. 

Ended this week

Love Syndrome finished its run on WeTV (I stopped at ep 2) - anyone wanna weight in with thoughts on the ending and whether I should binge or not? I do love Lee Long Shi.

Happy Merry Ending - Stars Lee Dong Won (KNK) as an ex-idol turned wedding singer with an abusive ex and a panic disorder + the sunshine pianist who falls in love with him. Timid tsundere & sweetheart gay is an interesting match. They’re gentle together, almost kindly and there is a calm ache to their pairing. However, it lost its way as a BL, being more about the main character’s struggle than the romance. It had a strong finish but ultimately the premise & characters meant this was never going to be one of my favorites. 8/10  

A Boss and a Babe - With an inconsistent narrative and self-sabotaging characters this was not the Thai BL office romance I was hoping for. I spent most if it feeling manipulated without good reason and sorry for ForceBook. They did their best with a shoddy script (AGAIN!) and none of its flaws were their fault. This show was all over the place and so am I about it. It’s better than Enchanté but that’s not really saying much. 7/10 I guess

In Case You Missed It 

BL Express reported that Taiwanese production companies have announced 7 new BLs (4 of these from Vidol.) Stories range from office romance to crime drama. 

Someone did a survey on KBL watchers. 

Build Jakapan has been cleared of all charges. 

Next Week Looks Like This:

Starting this week: 

5/26 Be My Favorite prev title: You Are My Favorite (Thai YouTube) Adapted JittiRain y-novel (2gether, FUTS, ToL, Vice Versa) one of those “rewrite the past to change the future.” Stars Krist (SOTUS) + Fluke Gawin (DBK, Not Me). Expect this to be v low heat, full of LIES and manipulation.

5/27 The Luminous Solution (Thai ????) 10 eps - Thana is having trouble at work and in his relationship. He can't seem to catch a break. So he makes a wish to change everything. The wish has a price.

5/27 Takumi-kun Series 6: Nagai Nagai Monogatari no Hajimari no Asa (Japan) - NO ONE ASKED FOR THIS (but that has never stopped Japan before) and no, I have no idea where to get it, why would I ?????  (Say it with me everyone: Oh Japan, must you?*)

2023 forthcoming BL master post (see comments, some are inaccurate, NOT KEPT UPDATED)

This Week’s Meta Moments 

naturellement (Step By Step naming its trope.)

The Promise calling out the uke archetype, Mary Sue much? 

ALL THE DANCING. Live the dream! Live the trend! Live the trope! 

4 tropes in one! Drinking, piggyback, feed him, product placement. Very nice GMMTV & GeminiFourth. I’m impressed.  

nash

(all My School President’s Our Skyy - kinda a masterclass in using ALL THE TROPES and ALL THE BL references.) 

THIS WEEK’S BEST MOMENTS

The unmitigated irony of so-called fans of ZeeNunew coming after this show for this moment (not to mention the self sabotage). Truly mind boggling. (Step by Step)

The two boys who didn’t win the boy but totally should have. This show makes me wanna drink too. Next week... soju! (The Promise)

Yes please and thank you GMMTV. (My School President) 

I do love the kinkification of Phi. (Boss & Babe) 

These tiny idiots it turns out are, in fact, totally hilarious. La Pulie (side dish friendship group)

(last week)

Current Kpop earworm? Key & Taeyeon’s Hate that... (which if it wasn’t an OST SHOULD have been)

[steelbluehome]

Screen Daily

A Different Man’: Sundance Review

BY TIM GRIERSON, SENIOR US CRITIC

22 JANUARY 2024

Seabastian Stan discovers that beauty is skin deep in this ’moody modern fairytale’

"Writer-director Aaron Schimberg’s third feature boasts three remarkable performances, including Sebastian Stan as the self-loathing thespian"

A gutsy satire that eviscerates ’beauty is in the eye of the beholder’ platitudes while sensitively exploring the stigma around facial disfigurement, A Different Man is a moody modern fairy tale in which an aspiring actor who blames his lack of success on his looks unexpectedly gets a new appearance — only to discover that his problems are more than skin deep.

A blistering portrait of identity, authenticity and chronic dissatisfaction

Writer-director Aaron Schimberg’s third feature boasts three remarkable performances, including Sebastian Stan as the self-loathing thespian and Adam Pearson, a British actor with neurofibromatosis. Pearson’s very presence challenges the film to avoid exploitation and, instead, offer a blistering portrait of identity, authenticity (both in the arts and in life), and chronic dissatisfaction.

A24 will release A Different Man in the US later this year, following a premiere at the Sundance Film Festival. Arthouse crowds should easily warm to this funny, thought-provoking existential comedy that might draw comparisons to Charlie Kaufman’s mind-bending, melancholy work. Stan’s stardom could help grosses, and he is also joined by The Worst Person In The World’s Renate Reinsve as well as Pearson, who is well known in the UK for his campaigning work.

Lonely, depressed Edward (Stan) has neurofibromatosis, struggling to land acting jobs in New York as a result. (The only gig he has been able to book lately is a workplace instructional video meant to educate employees not to be repulsed by those who are ’facially different’.) His new neighbour is the beautiful Ingrid (Reinsve), a budding playwright whose warm feelings for him appear to be only platonic. Despondent that she will never love him, Edward volunteers for an experimental drug program that could ‘cure’ his condition, and in short order, his tumours are gone — leaving him looking like the hunky Sebastian Stan. Now calling himself Guy, and informing acquaintances that Edward committed suicide, he happily plots his new existence.

Schimberg, whose 2019 comedy Chained For Life also starred Pearson, has delivered a nervy premise that avoids predictably patronising pleas for tolerance. Instead, the writer-director sharply critiques an insecure, self-pitying actor who comes to understand that changing his face really does not change anything at all.

Edward initially enjoys life as Guy — the random hookups, a killer job as a slick real-estate agent — but when he later sees Ingrid on the streets, he follows her and discovers that she has written a heartbreaking play about him, called Edward, that borrows heavily from their friendship. A Different Man’s twists should not be spoiled, but let it be said that Edward decides to audition for the title role — after all, who knows Edward better than he? — and courts Ingrid, who does not recognise him, only for their romance to be interrupted by Oswald (Pearson), a charming stranger who has neurofibromatosis and visits the theatre during rehearsals, excited to see a play that treats his condition with tactfulness.

A Different Man puts us into Edward’s head, the camera often capturing him as he looks longingly at all the seemingly blissful people around him who are free of the medical condition that he feels is his burden. But despite Oscar-nominee Mike Marino’s superb makeup work, it is telling that, once we see Pearson, we recognise how even the expert prosthetics fail to convey what neurofibromatosis looks like; just one way in which Schimberg questions his and other artists’ attempt to tell stories about disfigurement. Are they inherently exploitative? Insultingly patronising? Can someone without the condition ever fully appreciate what it is like to have neurofibromatosis? Rather than being coyly meta about these questions, A Different Man dissects them with intelligence and humour.

Reinsve shines as a kind soul whose relationship with Edward/Guy evolves in unexpected ways, but it is the interplay between Stan and Pearson that elevates A Different Man to another, more poignant and biting level. Stan portrays Edward as withdrawn and despondent, cannily playing into the audience’s pitying assumptions about a disfigured character. But when Pearson arrives, he explodes them, depicting Oswald as a confident, funny man, which shocks Edward (now going as Guy), who learns too late that his insecurity held him back — not his neurofibromatosis. Stan’s performance as Guy is full of nuanced anguish, the response of a man who thought being handsome was all he needed.

In the later reels, Schimberg sends the film down a dark, bitterly ironic path, consistently confronting our preconceived notions about attraction, beauty and the need to be truly seen. Some people will always want what they do not have, but it is hard to imagine anyone feeling short-changed by such a tonally rich, thematically ambitious film.

Production companies: Killer Films, Grand Motel Films

International sales: A24, sales@a24films.com

Producers: Christine Vachon, Vanessa McDonnell, Gabriel Mayers

Cinematography: Wyatt Garfield

Production design: Anna Kathleen

Editing: Taylor Levy

Music: Umberto Smerilli

Main cast: Sebastian Stan, Renate Reinsve, Adam Pearson

[showmemakeup]

S A L T A I R

This is a brand I am very excited about! It’s a body & personal care brand that is sustainable, cruelty-free, vegan and gluten-free! Although still in its infancy, Saltair is making huge waves within the skincare industry and has been taken on at Target. You can also shop their full range on the Saltair website.

I was introduced to Saltair by Iskra Lawrence, the founder, via her Instagram account. Fun fact: I worked with Iskra over a decade ago for a magazine shoot. The brief was creative makeup for a creative knit wear brand, you can find the images in my archive.

The affordable Bodycare selection ranges from body wash, lotions and treatments to natural deodorant that is available as a refill. You can expect to pay between $12 + $10 per product, they also offer travel size at $5.

Saltair has recently expanded into haircare and I am obsessed!!! I washed my hair on Monday and by Thursday (wash day) I could still smell the scent of the haircare duo. For me, that’s impressive.

There are 8 collections available within the body care range:

Santal Bloom (my personal favourite)

Island Orchid

Exotic Pulp

Pink Beach

Seascape

Black Tide

Lagoona

Lush Greens

Fragrance Free

Although Iskra is from the UK, she resides in the US with her partner and son, and therefore the brand is currently only available there - I am hoping this will change and their offerings will expand to the UK. I have been fortunate enough to receive nearly all of the range via the PR team and can tell you that I am well and truly in love with all that I’ve sampled.

If you are new to the brand I would HIGHLY recommend you give them a try! I am sure you won’t be disappointed.

Shonagh x

[ryttu3k]

Youtuber AUs? Is that a thing?

Beckett: Has a channel all about history, mythology, anthropology, and the interactions within. Generally pretty well-researched and presented, aside from his habit of getting into arguments (or flirting) with commenters... and sometimes Smash Or Pass videos for historical figures with a particularly high percentage of ‘smash’.

Sascha: Exclusively posts ASMR ‘POV: I perform amateur surgery on you while chatting amicably about history’-type videos. Sometimes it’s presented as a ‘doing your makeup’ video until they whip out the scalpels and the ice picks and the like. Trolls Beckett’s videos a lot but never replies to comments on their own videos.

Ilias: Has a wide variety of topics! Some particular favourites include Paganism (especially Eastern European Paganism), sex and body positivity, nature, art history (a recent interest), and, occasionally, dance tutorials. Generally Soft(tm) vibes and happily chats away with people in the comments. Wears those cat ear headphones, and his icon is fanart a subscriber made of him as a catboy :3

Anatole: Talks about religion and apocalypse-adjacent stuff, including some material that sounds, uh, vaguely doomsday cult-leaning. Which is. Concerning. Also, history-related stuff, including a lot of collabs with Beckett and Lucita, and mental health-related content, both informative and positivity.

Lucita: Another history-based channel who collaborates with Anatole and Beckett, she also has a side channel about physical and combat training and collaborates with her girlfriend Fatima on those, including exhibition combat matches. Has a small following of people who would like her to snap them in half like a twig. She ignores them.

Fatima: Largely a physical and combat training channel, both solo and with Lucita. She also vlogs regularly about the importance of integrity and being true to your own beliefs, including being queer and Muslim, breaking ties with abusive family members, and the like.

Nines: Lots of leftist political stuff, generally leaning into direct action, and quite a few videos have been taken down after complaints from conservatives. Particular focus on wealth inequality and poverty. Very intense demeanor, although he’s usually pretty friendly (albeit direct!) with people who seem well-intended and who want to learn more. Gets into a lot of arguments with LaCroix, both in the comments and in call-out videos.

LaCroix: One of those extremely polished-looking ‘rich trust fund kid’-vibe channels, with content on business and wealth, the history and philosophy of power and politics, and occasional luxury product reviews. Fascinated by military history, especially the Napoleanic era, and is very... very French (even though he speaks English with a British accent, claiming that since he learned English in the UK, it just stuck). Gets into a lot of arguments with Nines, both in the comments and in call-out videos. Enjoys a good unboxing video.

Roger: Very active video maker who posts about history and culture (with a special interest in both English and Zoroastrian mythology), philosophical videos about death and the afterlife, medicine and medical history, ancient religions and archeology (with an ongoing series on the London Mithraeum and the Mithraic Mysteries), and, for some reason, dealing with troublesome family members. Very calm voice. Despite the fact that he has never once worn a sweater vest, he somehow gives off immense sweater vest vibes.

Mithras: Roleplaying as an ancient Zoroastrian god living in the modern age. Refers to his fanbase as his cultists. Has never once broken character.

[pandasmagorica]

First watch mid-watch thoughts: DNA Says Love You

Okay, this isn't a review or even comprehensive. I watched episode 8 this morning and just had to get some thoughts down. The show has been dropping hints about this all the way through so I don't claim any brilliance for reaching this conclusion, but I just want to get my thoughts out before I continue with episode 9.

If you don't want to be spoilered, just know that I have warmed up to this series and I'm pretty sure it's giving us some QL rep that we don't usually get for leads in QL. How well it will ultimately do at it remains for me to see.

Spoilers (if you can call them that) and a clown after the jump

The series has been dropping hints all along that female child Wen-Wen is now adult male Amber, that Amber is desperate to re-establish contact with his childhood friends and in particular with Pu Le Jian aka Le, who he has clearly fallen in love with, if he didn't fall already as child Wen-Wen. And it seems like Le has fallen for Amber as well - if I may steal a line from Gram Pancake Thailand, I don't have to say I love you, I fed you pancake (as seen in Bad Buddy, as Ink and Pa feed each other pancake). There's been a lot of Le feeding Amber going on.

But...we probably have to wait:

Le reacted with what might be considered gay panic to Li's shipping Le and Amber in that video.

Amber hasn't responded to any of Le's "I wonder where Wen-Wen is now" with "He's sitting right in front of you"

Amber panicked when Le almost saw Amber shirtless, which would have - as I expect - revealed Amber's top surgery scars. I was looking for them (if the actor playing Amber is cis, then they could have used makeup) but I couldn't tell from the camera angle.

It's clear that Amber is reticent. In an episode 8 flashback (the Chinese title reads "one year ago" but it's not subtitled) we see Amber have a chance encounter with Le and Yu-He at a playground in Taipei where Amber recognizes them instantly but they are totally unaware of him. It takes him nearly a year afterwards to show up at the cafe.

We also see Wen-Wen being whisked away from Taiwan as a child. Wen-Wen's mother seems determined to get Wen-Wen out of there. My guess is what led to that determination is that Wen-Wen came out to his parents as being male. We'll see.

If so, the positive interpretation would be that they wanted to get him to a place where being transmale was more acceptable and allow him to transition only under their eyes. The negative interpretation would be that they were afraid of losing face. Again, I'm guessing we'll see.

We haven't seen much about the quest to find the mysterious temple, but we do keep getting references to it, so here's my clown:

Li is right that the two temple lovers were actually gay, and the story became heterosexualized over the years.

Le and Amber are the reincarnation of the two temple lovers.

I've got four episodes left. I hope, reincarnated or not, that Le and Amber find themselves as a happy couple.

A couple nitpicks:

Amber is a female name in English - Amber lived in the UK. I would have expected a transman to avoid such a gaffe. Likely the writing team's error.

When Yu-He and Wen-Wen had the discussion about Yu-He getting boy's hand-me-downs and Wen-Wen wearing a dress, I would have expected Wen-Wen to suggest swapping clothes. This might be a victim of the 26-minute run time - not enough time to inject this and the parents' reaction into the plot.

[brian-in-finance]

https://www.revamp-magazine.co.uk/lauren-lyle?utm_campaign=later-linkinbio-revamp_mag&utm_content=later-30175435&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkin.bio

Link to interview and there is an Instagram Story.

Thanks for the message, Anon.

Lauren Lyle

9 October 2022

Necklace / Maria Black // Dress / Missoni // Photographer: Stewart Bywater

Interview & Editor: Owen James Vincent

Stylist: Ben James Adams

Hair: Joe Pickering Taylor

Makeup: Maria Asadi

Photographer’s assistant: Hannie McBride

Stylist’s first assistant: Linda Houtsonen

Stylist’s second assistant: Fatima Koko

Cover Design: Emily Curtis

A big thanks to Georgia & Ellie from Public Eye & Sorcha Adamson from Arch The Agency

With ITV drama 'Karen Pirie' coming to an end. We got to chat to Lauren Lyle about her time on the show, preparing herself for the role and behind-the-scenes stories.

Dress & Gloves / La Musa @ Cult Mia

Hi Lauren! Thanks for chatting with ReVamp Magazine. Has 2022 been good for you?

It has, i’ve been very lucky to travel a lot for work from LA to the very most Northern Island of of the UK so i’ve seen some amazing sights. A grey whale in California and a colony of grey seals in the North. It’s been such a good summer in London too. After working away loads it felt cool to reconnect with my friends and actually live in my newly renovated apartment.

Do you remember the first production you worked on?

My first ever proper acting job was The Crucible at The Old Vic on The West End. I couldn’t believe it. TV wise it was either a BBC comedy called Radges which was hilarious and written by now a very successful comedian Fern Brady. Or it was Holby City! An absolute right of passage for a UK actor, i’m honoured to have got an episode before it ended.

Shirt / Letoit // Trousers / ArmedAngels // Shoe / Grenson

You’re the lead role in the ITV crime drama ‘Karen Pirie’. How has the reaction been so far?

It been crazy. I’m quite overwhelmed, and even Twitter which can be a horrible place is largely very positive. I’m so happy everyone is loving it and despite not wanting to read reviews it is good to know even rival papers are agreeing that is a great show. I knew we were making a good thing and its such a relief now its finally out.

How did you prepare yourself for this role?

I read the scripts a million times, watched all the detective shows I could, and created my own big wall which outlined the case and all the suspects. It was very intense wrapping my head around the case and every little details but a real pleasure diving in and immersing myself. Then when it came to line learning it was just repetition repetition repetition. And then sometimes the pub alone, with a half pint and my script.

Jacket / Dagmar // Shoe / Grenson

What was it like to be part of Val McDermid’s world?

Very cool! She’s created such iconic characters and much loved worlds. I was slightly daunted a the prospect of playing a character so many already loved from the books knowing I might not be everyone’s Karen they imagined in their head, however having done it once with Marsali as a book character from Outlander I knew this was our version and people would hopefully honour that. Which they have.

Do you think we need to see more female representation in big roles such as Karen's?

Always. I think telling this story through the lens of another young woman who also knows what it means to be nervous walking home at night is relevant and important. The case is very personal to Karen and the subject matter is to me, so i definitely feel proud to be opening up that conversation further into the mainstream. I’ve had lots of amazing messages from women saying that seeing a vanity free, funny, relatable woman on screen is so refreshing and reassuring.

Earrings / Maria Black // Dress / JC Pajares @ Cult Mia

Have you got any funny behind-the-scenes stories?

I got my parents into the final scene of the whole show as extras. It was quite special to bring them to work and show what I do. We did one take where we picked up half way through the scene and on one told my mum so she started acting out the very beginning of the scene. She stalled the whole take and accidentally got in Chris Jenks (The Mint’s) shot. Luckily the director through it was hilarious and filmed the whole thing.

Lastly, have you got any plans for the rest of the year?

I have just finished another film and i’m preparing to go away to an Island to shoot another one which will take me up to Christmas. Then it will be Christmas dinners and sleep.

You can catch the last episode of 'Karen Pirie' on ITV tonight at 8pm or watch the whole season on ITV Hub.

Revamp

Remember… I got my parents into the final scene of the whole show as extras. It was quite special to bring them to work and show what I do. — Lauren Lyle

[white-cat-of-doom]

I posted 2,327 times in 2022

827 posts created (36%)

1,500 posts reblogged (64%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@the-cat-at-the-theatre-door

@munku-collar

@white-cat-of-doom

@sillybub

@cassandra-has-moonlit-eyes

I tagged 2,321 of my posts in 2022

#cats the musical - 2,288 posts

#cats musical - 2,287 posts

#cats us tour 6 - 356 posts

#jellylorum - 262 posts

#victoria - 260 posts

#demeter - 253 posts

#bombalurina - 247 posts

#cats rccl cast 12 - 244 posts

#cats uk tour 2022 - 232 posts

#cats international tour 2022 - 230 posts

Longest Tag: 139 characters

#part of me wants to change my avatar to one of these pieces but i cannot bring myself to take away the 2019 rumple i have had for two years

My Top Posts in 2022:

#5

Today is the day! The Il Sistina production of CATS opens tonight (07 December 2022) in Rome!

Below are some more specific character photos, outside of larger group photos.

Jacopo Pelliccia as Gatto Giò (Bustopher Jones, a separate character in this production).

Photos taken by Gianluca Sarago.

Gaia Soprano as Cassandra.

See the full post

133 notes - Posted December 7, 2022

#4

Everyone generally knows what the Rumpus Cat looks like in traditional productions, right? A bit silly, with funky hair and red eyes.

Meanwhile in Japan, the modern Rumpus Cat looks like this:

The hero we never knew we needed.

(Fukuoka 2021, January 2022; Kenshin Mori as Rumpus Cat, Miki Okudaira as Jellylorum, Eiko Kataoka as Rumpleteazer, Yuki Takahashi as Old Deuteronomy, Taijun Kanemoto as Munkustrap, and Yurie Sato as Bombalurina. Almost fully hidden is Haruaki Tamai as Mungojerrie.)

141 notes - Posted February 21, 2022

#3

Rehearsals have started for the production of CATS at Teatro Sistina in Italy, starting 07 December 2022, an officially licensed non-replica from RUG.

The designs are interesting in that they have reference sheets for both the makeup and costume.

See the full post

149 notes - Posted November 9, 2022

#2

The promotional pictures for the UK/International Tour 2022 have been posted!

See the full post

181 notes - Posted May 31, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

I never uploaded these pictures last year, so I figured now would be a fun time to celebrate Pride Month again. Who better than with my favourite cast of Cats in Vienna?

See the full post

192 notes - Posted June 1, 2022

Get your Tumblr 2022 Year in Review →

[rosemaryhelenxo]

Manucurist Green Flash™ LED Nail Polish: Easy, At-Home Nail Care | Review - PR Gifted

Remember to use GLOWFORROSEMARY for 15% off your Manucurist orders! If you read my recent collaboration update – you’d have seen I started a new affiliation with the nail magicians at Manucurist. To get our affiliation rolling they kindly sent me their unique Green Flash™ Discovery Set to dive right in on reviewing for you as well as creating content! As a big believer in the Holy Trinity of…

[scumbag-monthly]

The Young Ones - Time 🕰️

Original air date: 5.6.84

Reviewed by: @rikhead

Greetings to the internet. Passionate fan here of the Young Ones and Rik Mayall from the US. Went with “Time” being, I think one of my favorites. Makes me smile from the beginning to the end, no matter how awful yet lovable the boys are!

Brief warning, I watch the show mainly just for them. very rarely I’ll watch the puppets or side characters just cause, I lost my interest, so not a complete review. Sure I’m not the only one who does this, but the musical guests most definitely too.… onward into the review.

So this is a wackier episode just from the introduction, and some different theme music. So it’s a parody of the American tv show “Dallas”, but was popular in the UK. Never seen it. Very amusing how we’re introduced to the boys playing different parts: Rick dives right into a pool, Mike is.. lying dead in a coffin, ok, Neil looking like a cool smokin’ cowboy, and Vyvyan poking an actual cow is adorable, and lots of girls. So the intro ends and it’s just Rick and a woman. Ok, I know sometimes the sets did look cheap, but the makeup/costumes? The BBC did well always in my opinion. Rik slightly looks like “Rick” with the pigtails, but free of acne! And BRIGHT pearly white teeth haha. Clearly some drama going on about oil and Rick being dramatic as usual. He goes to see “ET”, who surprise, is Neil.

Rick’s exaggerated bad American accent is, quite a sight. As an American, I laugh with pain to be honest haha. Anyways, so Neil changes something and they celebrate not till Vyvyan shouts, interrupting Neil’s “DREAM”…*sigh* the cliché dream sequence, but Neil’s moaning that his dreams are not a reality makes up for it. Vyyvan’s screaming at the church choir basically, with it being a Sunday, everyone goes to church, and the boys sleep in till the afternoon usually. Great yelling haha. We cut to our “hero”, a sleepy Rick in a quite larger version of his bed. Had to be bigger to fit two in, wait what?! Rick is surprised just like us, a woman is snoozing in his bed. He has a perfect reaction, until he turns into a pervy; crawls under the covers, snorting god knows what else.. but lifts the covers, pants-less, covered in filth, green spray paint in his hair, and even a streamer stuck in his undies, eww haha.

You can tell Rick is a moody young one, being concerned and questioning where she came from, but also delighted the gods gifted him, someone, to finally love, haha. Like a mischievous scamp, he puts his trousers on, and leaves to find the others (finally a plot) Vyvyan still being his usual self, trying to solve problems, is banging his head against the wall to try to stop his headache. Clearly not interested in Rick’s dilemma, Rick scurries off to the kitchen, where Mike’s sorting through newspapers.. why he has so many? We will never know why. Rick wanders in like the usual trait in every episode: trying to prove he’s cooler and more liked than Vyv.. his mannerisms are a true representation of series 2, being more cartoony and chaotic. Rick goes about doing something he never does, making tea. Normally the others bully Neil into doing all the cooking and cleaning. This goes to show Rick will do anything for love perhaps, haha. He goes about trying to outsmart with “oh we need more cups” but fails. Quite the scatterbrains they are. Bizarre, they can’t help wonder if Mike was pulling a joke on us., with how many times they break the 4th wall, or it’s an illusion, ah never mind, let’s move on. 

Rick’s got the tea, on his merry way upstairs when, oh no, Neil’s up and bumps into him, or Rick bumps into him. The hot tea scorches all over Rick’s shirt. Another great moment with what Rik was capable of in the screaming department. He isn’t much better when he gags at things, telling Neil to lick up the tea as it’s soaking into the carpet already; mad man haha. Great fight between them, calling Neil a pig with no snorts *gasp*. Vyyvan interrupts their fight with a “boom”, stick of dynamite going off his head to further attempt to cure the headache hangover. Good gag, then comes.. um. Well quite normal for the show to go off into random side events that lead into nothing. We’re instantly in a cheese shop, with Rik as the worker (how’d they clean him up so well? Lol) and Alexi running in. Could be one of the shorter Balowski family appearances in an ep, just appearing here and towards the end of the ep. Basically it is a homage to the Monty Python skit, which the guys grew up on. Very silly and making a 4th wall reference. 

**Then comes the “main focus”. Stories do not stay long in this universe, but the woman in Rick’s bed and what Neil asks about, could call it the main focus. Neil asks about a woman spotted in the bathroom (ooh er) and Rick decides to tell a tall-tale or a poor one, on the spot. Plus making goofy expressions: “If you got a spare couple of days”, wobbling his head and smirking, iconic. 

Funny still he loses confidence when Neil asks him to go into detail, and Rick not being brave enough to know at times, or possibly has never “done it”. Hilarious Vyv is unsure listening.. and then barfs right on Rick’s body. Then suddenly the mystery woman appears, and hilarious Rick goes after straight up to her face and she isn’t phased. Jennifer was such a pro. Looking like Cinderella, hilarious everyone’s reactions. The vibe is Rick taking charge introducing everyone, and then suddenly it’s all quiet, and awkward (in a funny way). Especially love Vyv using his lips acting puzzled, slowly putting the bomb box down, and cocking his head, slowly inching over to the table. Then Neil breaks the silence. Mike of course standing off to the side offering to be her man. Rick then does another not-normal thing! Make breakfast, out of frustration everyone not following his way of treating their guest. 

Very strange episode indeed. We find out the woman’s name is Helen.. Mucus oh boy, haha. Favorite part maybe, is Rick re-entering the room with the most pervy moves ever, or basically Richie from “Bottom” in the making, haha. Silly but also prior to this, Vyvyan sitting close to Helen and staring at her.. “jugs”, as the Brits call them, breasts. Yeah, no one says anything, but Rick thrusting everyone stares lol. Perhaps if they criticize Vyvan, he’ll “kill them”.. eek. Rick tries to cover his body language up with dancing, and their radio seems to be stuck on the choir channel haha. Vyvyan roasting Rick is great, and think some of us wouldn’t mind dancing with Rick *wink*. Helen then breaks the ice, spilling Rick’s story out of here. He didn’t have sex with her, she climbed through a window while the boys were gone (who knows where), and was simply sleeping in Rick’s bed without him knowing. Here we can insert theories on where the boys were, and this “party”.

Maybe they were at someone else’s house or the pub, and then they all came over to their house, with Neil mentioning Rick passed out from drinking cider haha.. the possibilities are endless. Anyway, uh oh, Rick lied about it, he’s blushing and scrambling, and Vyvyan cuts into the well-known line, “Rick is still a virgin!” and Rick shouting “I am not!!”

Funniest thing ever, when people look at other episodes, this moment I swear is one of the iconic ones, even when some readers may recall in the 5th Bottom live tour, Rik and Ade did brief impressions of the Young Ones: Rick about how “Grate” he is/ slurring his words and Vyvyan asking if we got a video and “virgin, virgin”; good stuff haha.

So I suppose it’s the climax, next big conflict, Rick and Vyv go off into a fight, throwing stuff and poor Neil being thrown in as well. You think it’s over as Rick smashed their giant record player over vyv’s head, and says a rude joke “Who wants a boiled egg?” (which you might now Rik used in his standup shows frequently), but Vyv pops the door open and pokes Rick with a fork, leading the fight to continue upstairs. A shame it isn’t shown much. 

Suddenly the radio pauses the church music and a newsflash comes on, revealing Helen isn’t who she seems to be (a dangerous killer!).. The camera zooms in, revealing the DJ is a pirate on a boat. Get it, pirate radio, har har.. I always skipped it cause I could care less about most of the side characters, but must say rest in peace Robbie Coltrane. It is incredible the amount of times he guest starred, and such a loved character in Harry Potter.

But after that scene, we cut back to reality, Neil tring to fix the radio but gets knocked, and Helen ends up throwing the radio and silly Mike doesn’t realize she is a murderess. She keeps knocking Neil out and Mike keeps trying to put the moves on her. Then finally back to that other “plot”, Vyv’s in Rick’s bed (ooh err) gives him a purple-nurple, and literally pounces on him haha. Back downstairs, Mike suggests they eat “Breakfast in bed”, then *BOOM* down comes Rick’s over-sized bed through the ceiling, with Rick and Vyv in it. Still funny how big it is, compared to “Sick”, you can see they have little personal-sized beds. Props to them for pulling off the stunt. Makes my brain hurt seeing how that must’ve felt falling that far down. Lots of shouting from the two, throwing and Rick bouncing haha. Helen’s blocking Mike from hearing the news, while he takes it delightfully, in fact, no one is listening. 

Appears to be Neil only who slightly heard about Helen being dangerous, but before he can say much more, Vyvyan carries him up to fight Rick, who is armed with a chair, then suddenly a sound goes off. The lightbulb apparently is gone, literally as a puppet walking out the door. Rick calls out Neil for stinking so bad, but I think it’s a combo of everyone’s smell, look at Rick! Lol Might be the only time they’ve used animation on a puppet.

Another moment of Neil complaining he does all the work, then Rick says something mentioned in another episode as well “What about *name of musical guest*?” He did this in the party episode “Interesting” too. It’s like they’re acting like the bands already live in the flat, or Rick has magic powers: any band he mentions appears, or their door is always open to strangers? More possibilities there too lol. The musical guest here is Amazulu, jazzy ska type music. Not too bad, in fact for a period the song was stuck in my head for days. Have learned the band would usually play a faster version of their songs to help with run time, or maybe more time for the “plot” lol. Fun song with seeing the guys dance to it. Rick being unsure how to and then talks to SPG is great, or literally talking to himself, being the same voice of the hamster haha.

Vyv and Rick sneak through on the stage to grab wood for the next bit, (with clearly Rick hitting on the lead singer haha) and then the song ends. Awfully nice of Vyv calling them “sweet”, but then he and Rick show them the door. So it’s Rick, Vyv, and Mike standing together on a ladder and Neil on a piece of wood they carried over. They go ranting on random meaningless stuff, with Neil questioning why they couldn’t have used the ladder to change the lightbulb, but Rick stops the chaotic talking to just get on with it.But then he has to say “for Cliff’s sake” haha oh Rick. And great, a poop joke, wouldn’t be the show without those. So they all jump, Neil goes flying through the ceiling, ouch. They’re gonna have to get it fixed! Awfully nice of the guys to try and pull Neil down, instead of leaving him to fend for himself. 

A reminder of how nasty they are, as they’re pulling Neil’s legs, they find cornflakes in his shoes to hide from Vyv. Then of course Rick reminds us he puts sticky labels on his belongings, but then Vyvy just eats them. He really must be related to Eddie of ‘Bottom’, who doesn’t mind eating or drinking anything bahaha. They pull anyways, and Neil crashes down with a new lightbulb, until Vyv smashes it on Neil’s head, who goes unconscious again. The Vyvy returns chasing Rick haha. 

Mike tries to pull the moves again on Helen, who decided to leave, and as she hits the door, it falls on her! *gasp*

Knocked down by a horse and door, in walks.. a knight. Sure, cause anything is possible. 

We learn he’s very easy-going and peaceful, until hitting Neil unconscious.. I don’t know.

But we go right upstairs, Vyvyan’s still after tormenting Rick, and happened to find some anti-tank gun, and shoots comedically at Rick. All the shots miss, and cuts to some townspeople from the same era as the knight…. who carries passed out Helen and Neil over. Neil falls in mud. Shot booms and hits the people, who then get angry and blame Neil and chase after him. Good plot.

Then the famous picture happens here, as Vyv and Rick conclude their.. whatever you’d call that, Rick has a “I AM A VIRGIN” sign on his neck, and apparently pays Vyv for being wrong? Or maybe for all the damage they caused to the house lol.. but not paying for the shirt he has to get made saying he’s a virgin. Oh Rick, we still love you. Suddenly Neil is back home, panicking about what just happened. They all suddenly realize there was a time-warp. Oh no, they’ve been warped to the Middle Ages! Rick’s reaction is hilarious, looking delighted at living in the past.. but then they realize no telly existed back then! One of the best lines comes from Neil, “Oh, no! I'll die if I miss Scooby Doo!”

Everyone runs around and “panic” means to hang Neil up, I got nothing… but still the telly works?

I always skipped this part, Alexi’s characters for me, some are interesting to keep watching (like Mr Balowski) but then some like the jester character here and, the guy from “Interesting”, the party ep, I lost interest. So it’s a medividal game show basically, with Helen on it, and even the woman that appeared in Bottom in the dating episode. Always wild to see the same people pop up in the same shows.

But finally near the end, their tv watching is interrupted by the angry mob, then in typical young ones fashion, it ends.. the boys could care less  about being in danger and end up playing cards, as the mob wanders around the house, and Neil gets bonked, THE END!

Typical crazy episode, seems to be low on most Young Ones episode ranking lists, and I don’t know, I consider it underrated, but I can see why some would prefer other eps, funnier lines or the music group.. At times, not much happened in this ep, but I feel it made me laugh more than “Boring” did. It’s a classic Vyv and Rick fight, Mike does quite a bit, and even Neil has some happy moments; it’s an ep that deserves to not be forgotten! Hope you enjoyed me review.

[beccasissy69]

Kardi

My final choice is Kardi Black. She's another UK based YouTuber who does a lot of tutorials, makeup reviews and beginner's guides. They're very down to earth and really good at explaining things...even if I sometimes fail to match their example (entirely down to my lack of practice!).

The outfit is pink again but it's a harder pink than Luna's look. I like how it's "smart" but still shows cleavage, how they've used a neutral lip to make the overall look a little less overwhelming and the highlighting/contouring is very effective too.

It's a much more classic "draggy" look, with the heavy makeup and strong eyes and the hair really adds to it's sleekness.

It would be something of a mid-point between the other two looks, available but not slutty, if he plays his cards right the night could very definitely end with something more than a peck on the cheek but it's not a guarantee he has to make the effort!

[absolutebl]

Until We Meet Again

This is going to be a watch along starting in Oct 2022, right before Between Us (the spin off) airs. But since I have never done a proper analysis or review of UWMA, I'll start with that. 

Until We Meet Again is a 2019 Thai BL from Studio Wabi Sabi directed by New Siwaj. 

It is an adaptation of the y-novel The Red Thread by LazySheep. I watched shortly after it aired in late 2019. You can currently (still) watch it on YouTube. Trigger warning. 

Quick Pitch  

UWMA is, without question, a work of narrative genius with a powerful and cohesive romantic backbone and stellar performances. It is (to date) the only Thai BL (of c.170 watched) that I’ve rated a 10/10 predominantly on the basis of story structure. That said, it is also very well cast (and it’s a BIG cast), with solid production values, and enduring pair branding as well as being the best Thai BL from a storytelling perspective. It is one of my favorite BLs of all time and I have probably rewatched at least some parts of it over 20x. 

Narrative Frameworks 

UWMA is long for a Thai BL at 17 ep of c.45 min of fresh content which means it comes in at around 13 hours total. It’s tropes include fated mates (or soulmates), past love/tragedy, sins of the fathers, and family drama. It has a strong seme/uke structure and multiple couples (both hallmarks of Thai BL). Leads are grumpy/sunshine pairings, with a side dish of sunshine/tsundere. It’s medium heat but still rather sweet, because while all couples are followed into the bedroom, there’s a very strong emotional chemistry component that renders the physical chemistry somewhat background to the pure love connection driving the relationships. As a series, it is paced well, but is perhaps not the best one to binge watch. To me it feels like a show that needs room to breathe. 

The production values are high but workmanlike. There are some flaws in sound, wardrobe, makeup, and repeated establishing shots. But the crew and cast were clearly bigger and better funded than any Thai BL production since. I would hazard a guess that this was one of Thailands most expensive BLs (with the possible exception of KinnPorsche). 

Thai Language Corner

From a Thai linguistics perspective it’s pretty standard for a college set BL. I do use both DeamPharm and WinTeam as examples when talking about basic and more complicated linguistic couple dynamics (more here). OhmFluke, however, are a bit more interesting IRL. 

New uses staggered couple framing, central aperture faming, peekaboo framing, and lighting to contrast the secretive and doomed nature of the past relationship against the attempted recovery and reformation of the modern day. He paid very little attention to manga style or BL’s yaoi roots, possibly because his style as a director is evidently not at all influenced by it. 

This show stars Fluke Natouch as Pharm [reincarnated In] and Ohm Thitiwat as Dean [reincarnated Korn] AKA OhmFluke. They are a branded pair who since UWMA have done Close Friend 1 & 2, and Oh My Sunshine Night and have more BLs scheduled for 2023. 

It also stars Earth Katsamonnat (AKA Smol Earth or CooHeart) as Intouch or In [Pharm’s past self] and Kao Noppakao as Korn [Dean's past self]. Earth has gone on to co-brand as SantaEarth starring in 7 Project and My Only 12%. He had acted in several BL shows prior to UWMA, although Fluke would have been the most experienced lead actor on that set. Kao would go on to star in Lovely Writer. Both Fluke and Earth are openly gay and were out at time of filming and promotion. 

The support couple (or side dish) featured Prem Warut as Team [Pharm's best friend] and Boun Noppanut as Win [Dean's best friend]. BounPrem are strongly cobranded and have since co-lead 7 Project, Even Sun, Long Kong, and guest-coupled in Cutie Pie and You Never Eat Alone. They will anchor Between Us the spin off of UWMA (an adaptation of Hemp Rope) reprising their roles of Win and Team. In UWMA their couple has relatively little screen time but they absolutely stole fan attention and adoration. 

UWMA also featured Samantha Coates (AKA Sammy) as Manow [Pharm's best friend] and Pineare Pannin as Del [Dean's sister]. Sammy is a staple of many BLs, being an active member of Wabi Sabi’s stable. Del is best known for playing Yuri in 2014′s Love Sick, Thailand’s first big hit BL. These two starred together in Wabi Sabi’s only GL (part of 7 Project.) (Don’t bother, it’s still all about the boy.) 

I am telling you all this up front because I will make mistakes and refer to everyone by their character or actor name all the time. Sorry. Also I want you to know how biased I am. 

I LOVE this show.

And now....

the watch along. 

Episode 1 - Oh, I Forgot...

It has probably been about a year since I did a rewatch of UWMA. And I think I’ve only ever watched the first installment of the first episode one time through. I didn’t forget how dark it was, but I am reminded why I always say ‘original trigger warning” on UWMA.

I can see why I like to the show from the start, because it does open on a crying kiss. I am an absolute sucker for a crying kiss. This time around, I noticed the intrusiveness of the music a lot more, especially in KornIn’s stuff. 

Earth turns in a killer opening performance (in the great cry off between him and Fluke that is this show). In that moment before he picks up the gun, Earth almost does look like Fluke will later on. It’s a really interesting bit of facial performance and acting. 

I got to say, barring some of the darker Japanese BL, this is probably the most powerful opening sequence we’ve gotten in the genre. Honestly, if this show we’re being released right now I don’t think it would’ve had this opening. They would’ve kept the trigger, but it would’ve appeared more chronologically towards the end.

Is this a pleasant way to start a BL? No. 

Is it powerful? Yep.

Manaow and Del are still 2 of my favorites. We were robbed with their GL.

Oh my God Prem looks like such a baby.

I like that there are these extra bits with extra characters in UWMA, like in the cooking club. We don’t get a vast ensemble casts like this anymore. Not even from Thailand, not with this attention to detail. I kind of miss it. The little extra bits set in different parts of the university, they remind me a bit of origin yaoi.

Honestly Fluke is one of the best blushing maidens to ever blush. It’s still not my favorite archetype but he does do it beautifully. The part where Team jokingly says he’ll protect his two friends, is pretty telling actually. Since he’s going to have to step up to the plate later and try against and older boy. I do adore this friendship group. In the end, perhaps Pete & Kao’s friends (Kiss series) beat them out slightly. But not by very much.

And the set up for the whole show:

I will keep searching until I find you. 

30 years later... 

(You know, when I was first watching this show I always called it Until You Again, in my head.) 

I wonder how hard it was for Fluke to cry on command like that, all the time. Here watch this AMAZING FMV of Fluke and Gun (Theory of Love) having a cry off. 

WinTeam and the towel in the locker room is still one of the best early couple moments ever.

The end of the first episode and we haven’t even had a proper meet cute. And yet the pacing feels. I think because the show opens so top-heavy with the deadly drama at the beginning of the episode. 

Honestly, I forgot how sort elegant and well executed to show was. I’ve grown to no longer expect that from New. It just goes to show that he’s one of those directors that really excels and thrives when he has a very strong script.

Episode 2 - The High Beans! 

I love this meet cute. LOVE IT. Can’t wait to watch it again. But first the library (not quite) assignation. 

One of the best prevailing themes of UWMA is this idea that making food, and specifically Thai desserts, is meditative and important for the cook. But also that preparing food is about the love and affection that you sprinkle feelings into the dish like seasoning, so that people can taste it when they eat.

Note the only other guy in the cooking club? That’s Best Vittawin from Check Out and a bunch of other higher heat BL. Also some of you who are paying attention to the language might notice that Luk Choup is mentioned quite a bit. Yes that is the same name as the character in La Cuisine. It’s also the desert that In makes with his Maa, and that Pharm makes into special star shapes for Dean in Ep 3.

Honestly KaoEarth never much resonated with me, but on this rewatch I am liking them so much better than I ever have before. It that @heretherebedork​ ‘ss influence? Possibly. I think it’s also because of both My Only 12% (which is making me like Earth more as an actor) and Lovely Writer (which made me like Kao more).

One of my favorite character development threads in the show is Dean’s relationship with his siblings. I love how austere and cold he is at the beginning of the show. But how, after being with Parm for a while, he mellows around Don & Del. It is Pharm who brings a family to Dean in the end.

The note passing in the secret smiles and the spitting of the orange juice remains very cute.

I am quietly obsessed, well not quietly (because I’ve never quiet), about Dean with his hand in his pocket.

Honestly, the only time Dean takes his hand out of his pocket is to touch Pharm.

And there it is, FINALLY, the mung bean meat cute! 

Best ever. 

This is such a GREAT romance. 

Pharm starts to cry and Dean immediately touches his face. There is a reason I call Dean the most handsy seme in BL. He is pretty much never not touching Pharm from this moment on. It’s glorious (and very unlike KBL and JBL). 

And you can see him look at his own hand and surprise, because he is clearly not a touchy-feely person. But being then he just accepts this about himself and will do everything he can to be close to Pharm from here on out. 

I love how New does this dirty screen peekaboo shot on DeanPharm right before he cuts back and forth to KornIn, it’s like framing foreshadow since normally this style of short is used with KornIn so highlight the secrecy of their relationship. 

Episode 3 - Wabi Sabi Shows Off The Stable

I just realized one of In’s friends (played by Title Tanatorn) is also in Remember Me and My Only 12% airing right now. Boy needs a series. He v cute. Also “HI DR SING!” (Sorry, due to Triage, Tonnam will always be Dr Sing. Although he is also a side character in LITA right now. Honestly my brain is becoming an MDL for Thai actors in BLs. Of course, Perth is great in this role, a foreshadow for all the crying he’ll do in LBC2. I am sorry we never got to meet his character older. It would’ve been nice for him to have gotten closure with the Pharm as reincarnated In. I wonder if his character got to meat Pharm did in the book?

And Win’s Patented move the casual arm throw. Honestly, Win gets all of the best lines in this show. No wonder we all like him so much. I hope he stays a witty and snarky in Between Us. 

I have to say, Dean’s soft voice is one of the best in the biz, thank you Ohm. Almost as good as Solo’s (Oxygen).

And so Dean learns about Pharm’s panic attacks and the after effects that his past self’s actions have wrought on the person he loved the most. And he reacts in the most seme way possible. Honestly he is such a poster child seme in this series. 

Also he flirts. 

In a VERY Dean fashion.

Dean: I’m still single.

Pharm: I am single too.

Dean: Not for long.

This is the show where I first learned that in Thailand do you say “bur” when you want someone’s digits. This makes me unreasonably happy.

Meanwhile back in the past selves, In is so brave. The worst consequence of the tragedy that lead to their reincarnation is that his future self is so timid and afraid because of what was done to In in the past. It’s really the only reason I forgive Pharm’s blushing maiden actions. I think of that fact of his personality as somewhat dictated by the past, much like his panic attacks. 

The bit where Pharm is serving Dean breakfast in his condo for the first time and he puts out a carafe of water and there are little flowers floating in it? What are those flowers?

Meanwhile, he way Dean fixes Pharm’s hair and tie and then Phram misspeaks “gin” gets me every time. Although I gotta say if a boy cried like that every time he met me, I’d probably have backed off my now. 

Episode 4 - Bisexual Rep & Stereotyping. Are we happy or sad? 

Does one get pleased to see bisexual rep or annoyed by the stereotyping? At the time, because it was so rare in BL (still is, actually), I was pleased. But now with Mame busting in on the bi/pan=predatory slut trope regularly I’m just annoyed. 

P’Alex (Mean in his best role, fight me Tin stans) as a sleazy bi actor won over by food. Honestly? Been there done that, been that done there, and fucked that. Oo, I’m three for three!

OK so in LITA when Payu says/implies that he wants Rain to talk like a good boy, really he wants him to talk the way Pharm does to Dean (all the time). Pharm is so bloody polite. 

So cute that Dean won’t allow Pharm to be jealous for one second. Dean has no interest in playing any of the normal BL games. These two are fated, gay, and into each other and he has no interest in pretending otherwise. Oh he will tease his uke like a proper seme, but only because Pharm lacks faith in Dean’s constancy.

The scene with Pharm and the girls carving the dumplings is one of my favorites. It’s so cute the way Manaow teases Pharm with Del’s sibling connection. Also it’s really sweet the way that Pharm instantly understands the complexities of Dean’s familial relationships, and immediately sets out to heal them.

Win and Dean racing. 

Look, competition is how 2 semes show their love for each other. 

And then the most famous scene in a BL that’s full of famous scenes.

Does anyone one in BL execute the feeding trope better? I think not. And if you can name one, leave a comment and make a case for it. 

In addition to having one of the best soft commanding voices in Thai BL, Ohm has got to have one of the best side eyes as well.

I love that Del is already protective of her brother’s boyfriend.

Happy clap hands we get the first date and the penguin walk next! 

Episode 5 - The Ping-guine Walk! 

I would like to stress from this moment on that we, the collective BLers, do not talk about Dean’s driving in this show. Or we did at the time, but that time has passed. Just ignore, okay? Cause it cray cray. 

Del cooking for her brothers is so cute. Also the way she gently teases Dean about Pharm. Love her! 

And now the first date. 

The bus trip so Make it Right. Just FYI Thailand and Korea LOVE a bus trip in romance (BL or otherwise). They tend to do it the most. Japan has done it a few times too. But the others not so much. 

Also sharing earbuds = MIR again. 

I do love P’Sorn. 

Yes, that’s Na from Kinnporseche but we knew him when (also forthcoming Wish Me Luck).

I love the aquarium visit. 

Pharm doing the penguin walk. 

Dean’s expression when Pharm does a penguin walk. 

Dean secretly taking photographs of his cutie. It’s just wonderful. Pharm is so bouncy and cute and Dean is so soft and indulgent. And it’s one of the few times where we get to see Pharm be a little bit more like In. Dean spends the whole time looking at Pharm rather than the fish. He’s so doting. 

It’s so good. 

The story about the sea ogress and what to do with a traitorous lover. Pharm’s response is actually typical uke, as possessive as seme are, it is usually the uke in yaoi & BL who ends up being the most fierce about ownership in a relationship. Because the uke has, in many ways, sacrificed part of their identity to the seme (in In’s case, all of it), their’s is the more powerful claim by right of sacrifice. It’s very old gods, ancient instincts. 

Meanwhile there’s Dean always making his intentions crystal clear. 

That hand hold. 

But also... 

No Dean, he doesn’t trust you, and for a very good reason.

And finally we have everybody’s least favorite character in UWMA: Ja’s wig.

There’s a wild speculation around this wig. 

Perhaps he had just finished Ror Dor and had no hair? Or had just come back from serving in the military? No matter wha,t it’s totally unacceptable. 

Thailand is never allowed to use wigs. It’s one of the sacred rules of BL. It’s a bummer because Sorn & Sin are fab minor characters. (They will rep for the “elder gay advice giver” archetype. One of my favorites.) 

Episode 6 - The Read Thread Kiss

This rewatch I really feel a lot more for Korn than I ever did before. He really did try to warn In that it wasn’t a good idea for them to date, like he knew he wasn’t gonna be brave enough, even for love. But In is so relentless and so cute, who could resist? 

Everyone eating lunch together and teasing each other and Del finally relaxing around Dean is one of my favorite little vignettes. Also, everybody laughing at Dean rgr “forgetting to swallow.” And my boys holding hands under the table. It’s glorious.

I also like how we get to see Dean reacting to the past negatively too, finally. And his siblings are so worried about him. This crack in his stoic armor. 

I do love Pharm standing up to Alex before the play. And the fact that Del records it and sends it to Dean is just so good. Especially knowing what happens next. 

The fated mates of the red thread. 

Dean’s faculty cohorts are all such frat boy type dicks. I kinda love their sleazy mame-ish little ways.

Honestly there’s nothing carnal when these two kiss but it’s so beautifully romantic and soft. 

I love love love the way Dean checks in on Pharm and tidies him up, afterwards. It’s so sweetly caring and careful. 

And then the big realization about reincarnation over shabu shabu. 

I gotta say, as a chronic rewatcher, this show stands up to a rewatch better than pretty much any other Thai BL I could name. Probably because it has so many character vignettes, and little moments of side affection between friends as well as lovers. There’s a lot of meat and sweetness to revisit. 

Episode 7 - Possibly my Favorite Episode 

The tiny snippet where Dean sees Pharm as In is actually one of the saddest bits of this whole show. It’s rough watching DeanPram figure everything out. 

I do love the scene where Pharm meets Dean’s younger brother. Don tricks Dean into coming over, and everybody teases them. 

I feel like every episode I say “this is one of my favorite scenes.” Which just goes to show why this is my favorite Thai BL ever. 

Meanwhile, sitting on the couch crying, DeanPharm finally figure out that they promised to find each other and that they are both experiencing the same feelings of reincarnation. This particular exchange of gifts is so significant actually talk about it as an example in my blog post on the trope. Gift exchange is not a trope I love but it has a lot of meaning in this particular instance. 

Public claiming of a relationship is one of my more favorite tropes on the other hand, which means the next scene where Dean has to run Alex off is just too good. When I talk about Thailand in the context of age dynamics as part of culture, I use the example of how hard it is for Team to protect Pharm under these circumstances - where he is fighting against Alex who is not only older but from a different department. It’s such an important insight into Team’s character, that he’s willing to stand against Alex even though the whole social structure is against him. Dean sweeping in and running Alex off is just so powerful as a result. Also I really love the way Dean is always touching Pharm and tidying/playing with his hair and clothes - it’s so proprietary and boyfriend. It also shows that Dean is never not thinking about him, his eyes are always on Pharm whenever they are together. 

And this ep ends with WinTeam and the forehead kiss in the convenience store. Finally there’s some movement on their romance. This really is one of my favorite episodes. 

Other Stuff Related to this Show

Why Until We Meet Again is special among Thai BLs

Thai Desserts in Until We Meet Again 

BL With the Highest Chance of Breaking Into The West - Until We Meet Again (I wrote this before KinnPorsche) 

Sex negativity as part of the seme/uke dynamic 

Thai Food You Should Eat Because of BL 

(source)

So I will try to updated this original doc as much as possible, but sometimes Tumblr just stops me from editing, in which case I have to repost and add. So I’ll be putting a rough date here, please don’t get mad if something is out of date and I can no longer fix it. October 2022. 

[theinsightweb]

Cosmetic Pigments Market - Trends, Size, Share, and Growth to 2031

The most recent research study by The Insight Partners, “Cosmetic Pigments Market - Trends, Size, Share, and Growth to 2031,” offers a detailed market analysis covering market dynamics, growth opportunities, trends, and segmentation. Cosmetic Pigments Market predictions are presented in this report based on revenue size, CAGR, consumption, technologies, trends, and other critical information.

The report highlights market drivers, and restraints in this market while providing an analysis of recent developments and next trends. Comprehensive Cosmetic Pigments market report presents a dashboard of historical and present market performance. Analysis of key companies contributing to the growth of Cosmetic Pigments market share in the projected period.

The study also focuses on the current market scenario and the range of factors that can impact different region’s Cosmetic Pigments markets in the future. The detailed perspective on the competitive landscape and in-depth supply chain analysis under this report assist businesses in identifying shifting industry practices. This report evaluates the current state of the market and anticipated future growth. Furthermore, technological advancements and investment opportunities, financial data, and market economics are perks of this report.

This report further offers insights on drivers, restraints, current trends, and financial prospects to forecast the year. Precision and validity are key qualities of this research, making The Insight Partners a trusted market research company.

Knowing the state of rivals is a strategically right move to outperform them. This report is the right place to explore key strategies, developments, and recent launches by Cosmetic Pigments key market players. This report emphasizes an analysis of business strategies and expected growth opportunities for brands.

Why Buying this Report Could be Your next Strategic Move?

Learn detailed market information, competition, and SWOT analysis.

To ascertain Cosmetic Pigments market growth carefully by evaluating value, volume, and CAGR data at the national level.

To gain knowledge on market dynamics, unrealized growth opportunities, challenges, and main drivers of the market.

Review recent developments and strategic insights taking into consideration new launches, agreements, and mergers.

Know lucrative spaces to invest in the Cosmetic Pigments market globally and regionally.

The report attempts to offer answers on:

What’s the projected growth rate CAGR by the 2031?

How big is the Cosmetic Pigments market anticipated to be throughout the estimated period?

Who are the major market participants in the market?

What are the main restraints ahead of Cosmetic Pigments market players?

Which are the key segments in the market?

Report Attributes

Details

Segmental Coverage

Composition

Organic Pigments

Inorganic Pigments

Type

Special Effect

Surface Treated

Nano

Natural Colorants

Application

Facial Makeup

Eye Makeup

Lip Products

Nail Products

Hair Color Products

Others

Regional and Country Coverage

North America (US, Canada, Mexico)

Europe (UK, Germany, France, Russia, Italy, Rest of Europe)

Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, Australia, Rest of APAC)

South / South & Central America (Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South/South & Central America)

Middle East & Africa (South Africa, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Rest of MEA)

Market Leaders and Key Company Profiles

SunChemical

SensientCosmeticTechnologies

MerckPerformanceMaterials

Sudarshan

KoboProducts

BASFSE

Clariant

Geotech

Huntsman

LANXESS

Other key companies 

Need a Customized Market Research Report?

You can always share any specific requirements that you have, and our team will adjust the scope of research offerings as per your needs.

The following are some customizations our clients frequently ask for:

The Cosmetic Pigments market report can be customized based on specific regions/countries as per the intention of the business

The report production was facilitated as per the need and following the expected time frame

Insights and chapters tailored as per your requirements.

Depending on the preferences we may also accommodate changes in the current scope.

Key Questions Addressed in the Cosmetic Pigments Market Research Include:

What are present Cosmetic Pigments market values, and what can be expected in the upcoming decade?

What are the key segments in the Cosmetic Pigments market?

What is the regional distribution of the Cosmetic Pigments market report?

What are the key players and their recent strategies?

What are the key factors driving Cosmetic Pigments market growth?

What are regulatory concerns and requirements businesses have to compel?

Contact Us: www.theinsightpartners.com

[marketblogresearch]

Make-up Finish Sprays Market Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2031

The most recent research study by The Insight Partners, “Make-up Finish Sprays Market - Trends, Size, Share, and Growth to 2031,” offers a detailed market analysis covering market dynamics, growth opportunities, trends, and segmentation. Make-up Finish Sprays Market predictions are presented in this report based on revenue size, CAGR, consumption, technologies, trends, and other critical information.

The report highlights market drivers, and restraints in this market while providing an analysis of recent developments and next trends. Comprehensive Make-up Finish Sprays market report presents a dashboard of historical and present market performance. Analysis of key companies contributing to the growth of Make-up Finish Sprays market share in the projected period.

The study also focuses on the current market scenario and the range of factors that can impact different region’s Make-up Finish Sprays markets in the future. The detailed perspective on the competitive landscape and in-depth supply chain analysis under this report assist businesses in identifying shifting industry practices. This report evaluates the current state of the market and anticipated future growth. Furthermore, technological advancements and investment opportunities, financial data, and market economics are perks of this report.

This report further offers insights on drivers, restraints, current trends, and financial prospects to forecast the year. Precision and validity are key qualities of this research, making The Insight Partners a trusted market research company.

Knowing the state of rivals is a strategically right move to outperform them. This report is the right place to explore key strategies, developments, and recent launches by Make-up Finish Sprays key market players. This report emphasizes an analysis of business strategies and expected growth opportunities for brands.

Why Buying this Report Could be Your next Strategic Move?

Learn detailed market information, competition, and SWOT analysis.

To ascertain Make-up Finish Sprays market growth carefully by evaluating value, volume, and CAGR data at the national level.

To gain knowledge on market dynamics, unrealized growth opportunities, challenges, and main drivers of the market.

Review recent developments and strategic insights taking into consideration new launches, agreements, and mergers.

Know lucrative spaces to invest in the Make-up Finish Sprays market globally and regionally.

The report attempts to offer answers on:

What’s the projected growth rate CAGR by the 2031?

How big is the Make-up Finish Sprays market anticipated to be throughout the estimated period?

Who are the major market participants in the market?

What are the main restraints ahead of Make-up Finish Sprays market players?

Which are the key segments in the market?

Report Attributes

Details

Segmental Coverage

By Product Type

Moisturizing

Oil Control

Others

Distribution Channel

Supermarkets and Hypermarkets

Specialty Stores

Online Retail

Geography

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

and South and Central America

Regional and Country Coverage

North America (US, Canada, Mexico)

Europe (UK, Germany, France, Russia, Italy, Rest of Europe)

Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, Australia, Rest of APAC)

South / South & Central America (Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South/South & Central America)

Middle East & Africa (South Africa, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Rest of MEA)

Market Leaders and Key Company Profiles

Skindinavia

smashbox

MAKE UP FOR EVER

MAKE-UP ART COSMETICS (M.A.C.)

Urban Decay

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP

Bobbi Brown Professional Cosmetics, Inc.

GIVENCHY

Clarins

AVENE

Other key companies 

Need a Customized Market Research Report?

You can always share any specific requirements that you have, and our team will adjust the scope of research offerings as per your needs.

The following are some customizations our clients frequently ask for:

The Make-up Finish Sprays market report can be customized based on specific regions/countries as per the intention of the business

The report production was facilitated as per the need and following the expected time frame

Insights and chapters tailored as per your requirements.

Depending on the preferences we may also accommodate changes in the current scope.

Key Questions Addressed in the Make-up Finish Sprays Market Research Include:

What are present Make-up Finish Sprays market values, and what can be expected in the upcoming decade?

What are the key segments in the Make-up Finish Sprays market?

What is the regional distribution of the Make-up Finish Sprays market report?

What are the key players and their recent strategies?

What are the key factors driving Make-up Finish Sprays market growth?

What are regulatory concerns and requirements businesses have to compel?

About Us:

The Insight Partners is a one-stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in industries such as Semiconductor and Electronics, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, Biotechnology, Healthcare IT, Manufacturing and Construction, Medical Devices, Technology, Media and Telecommunications, Chemicals and Materials.

Contact Us: www.theinsightpartners.com