Common Sense Media Review
By Stephanie Morgan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Japanese queer-romance reality show has some sexy stuff.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Boyfriend
What's the Story?
THE BOYFRIEND is a Japanese reality dating show in which a group of men live together, date, and run a coffee truck business while a panel provides commentary on their every move.
Is It Any Good?
This Japanese show offers a refreshingly positive and sweet vibe within the realm of reality dating shows. While there are obviously some contrived moments in The Boyfriend, the participants come across as genuinely earnest about their quest for a partner. Setting them up to run a coffee truck business adds an extra layer of intrigue, making it fun for viewers to guess who'll be able to hawk the most java in addition to who may end up together. The panel watching and commenting on the men's every move also spices things up, though the straight panelists treating the queer panelist as an expert on all queer men feels reductive. Overall it's a joyful (if often cringey) watch thanks to the kind and empathetic nature of those on screen.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the significance of vulnerability and courage in personal growth and finding happiness. How do the participants of The Boyfriend exhibit these traits?
Discuss the sweeping statements made by the queer panelist regarding the gay community and the broader issue of stereotypes and representation in media. How can shows like this improve in representing diversity within the queer community?
TV Details
- Premiere date : July 9, 2024
- Cast : Yuuki Luna
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Reality TV
- TV rating :
- Last updated : July 21, 2024
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