I never really thought that I would like the execution more than I did in episode one. I expected that I won't be able to give it another five stars but it turns out that the episode deserves it. Since it is still part of the recap, I couldn't help but include some few points related to the first series; however, I highly believe that I will be able to discuss it as its own after the recap.First, let's discuss the storyline in the episode. I really like how the scenes were able to include several details that could build the appropriate atmosphere of Wayo and Phana's story. It was able to exhibit Phana's emotions throughout the episode because it provided Phana's side really well especially after he found out that Wayo was the boy he likes. I was worried at first because I thought Phana's standpoint would be just like how it was portrayed in the last one where it just became additional parts and it won't be shown thoroughly. It really made me sense his feelings for Wayo. I love the arrangement of scenes in the episode. It was suitable that the flashback was placed after he saw Wayo to create that nostalgic tone. The episode was able to express the pursuit of Forth and Phana really well through various parts (I couldn't even decide between the two even though I know what will happen ? ). In addition, I felt that Forth likes Wayo in the episode. The little details such as small talks between Wayo and Phana was a great decision because it was necessary to show the progression of their relationship. I also love how the character of Wayo was explored more through his imaginations because it really provided depth to his character. Second, the other characters were able to obtain decent amount of screen time that they all shone in this episode. Basically, they were able to establish the foundation of the characters and start the stories of the other couples (Mingkit). I could really see the friendship of Phana, Kit and Beam as well as friendship of Ming and Wayo. The interactions were really believable and hilarious. On a side note, the choice of music and cinematography were fine. The conversations were more natural compared to the first series. They were convincing enough to be college students. I was really shocked that there were no cringey scenes for me except for a few "blushing moments". The iconic "umbrella" scene was really sweet and hilarious. It had a more natural tone to it. Lastly, the acting of the cast really improved. I was extremely impressed of Ben because in my opinion, he was doing a good job as Phana. He really stepped up his game because he officially became the only Phana in my mind. The facial expressions were great! In accordance with this, the other actors - Nine, Earth, Phoom, Joong, and Dome are doing a great job as well. Each character became alive and interesting to watch. Most importantly, the chemistry was also undeniable in every interaction. Overall, the episode has depth that I was looking for and I could not wait for the next episodes.
I have to write about the first episode of 2 Moons 2 because I felt like I need to get these thoughts out of my head. ?? I will compare some of the elements between the first and new series since it is the first episode but I think in the next ones, I would be able to discuss about it as its own.First, it has a better cinematography and dialogue than the first one. I was really impressed because throughout the first episode, I can’t get over the fact that it was able to improve its artistic and technical decisions. One example was the basketball scene of Phana which exhibited his silhouette. Now, there are still slow motion scenes; however, it has the right atmosphere. It was not uncomfortable which I felt in the first one. The cut between the scenes was fine and the conversations between the characters were realistic enough for me. Of course, I won’t be able to assess the whole script until the last episode.Second, the scenes which I found cringey in the first series was somehow really charming and cute in 2 Moons 2. I had a smile on my face during those parts. I guess what really changed my perspective was the comfortable atmosphere that Phana and Wayo gave in the episode. Some of the characters were able to depict their personalities already. Wayo (Earth) was able to exhibit a shy, cute, and a little awkward person who is head over heels for Phana. In accordance with this, Earth had good facial expressions and movements in the first episode. The way he potrayed his character was adequate. On the other hand, I could not discuss about the other characters since I need more of their screen time to do that. I could say though that they are all charismatic. In addition, we have to consider that they are still rookie actors so there will be some need in adjustments in terms of acting; however, it is better than the last one. I think that after a few episodes, it could withstand on its own without any comparison with the first one (I hope so). Here is the most impressive part of the new series (episode one) - an already better embodiment of Phana. The facial expressions of Ben was really evident. He was able to express the suitable facial expression in each scene. Before the series started, some people said that he was not good looking enough to be Phana. In my opinion, when I watched the episode, he gradually grows on you because he has that certain charisma that I observed in the episode; moreover, Ben was already able to establish in my mind the he is Phana. Basically, he was believable enough. Lastly, the exhibition of the storyline. What I liked was even though the first episode was part of a recap, it was surprisingly sufficient for me as a viewer. It was not fast paced for me and instead, every scene became necessary since the episode only showed the important parts. The first episode also had a sense of warmth or an affectionate feeling (especially the scene at the beginning of the episode). Overall, 2 Moons 2 is “off to a better start”. It has a potential to surpass the former one. I could not wait for the next episodes. ??