19/10/2024
The Boyfriend is a Netflix series that will feature a reality show cast of real East Asian gay, bi and queer men. Starting this week, and dropping new episodes until July 30th, the show, according to Out Magazine, is more refined and reserved than some equivalent dating shows aimed at Western countries. The nine men - mostly from Japan, but also hailing from other East Asian countries - will explore love, life and coming out in different cultural settings as they work together to operate a coffee hut. DANA HAN-KLEIN writing for Out Magazine, notes that "Same-sex marriage is only legal in 36 countries at present, with Taiwan being the only Asian country at present to allow for it. Nepal issued an interim order paving the way for recognized same-sex marriage in 2023. In June of 2024, Thailand voted to ratify those rights, though the law still needs royal endorsement and to adhere to a 120 day waiting period after that." Dana concludes "It may take a moment to adjust to the style and pace, but it’s worth it. We hope The Boyfriend is one massive coffee truck shaped leap forward for moving the needle towards parity."
