‘Gameboys’: The triumphant Filipino BL series gets season 2

Gameboys

Team CaiReel! Kokoy de Santos and Elijah Canlas as young lovers Gavreel and Cairo. Image: The IdeaFirst Company

“Gameboys” streamed its finale last night — but it is far from the last fans will see of the series.

At the end of the emotional 13th episode that streamed last night, Sept. 13, a poster flashed onscreen, stating “Gameboys 2 soon.”

Executive producer Perci Intalan of The IdeaFirst Company and show writer Ash M. Malanum made the announcement too on Twitter. Intalan wrote, “S2. You asked for it. You got it.”

The series directed by Ivan Andrew Payawal has drawn a loyal global following, thanks to its sincere depiction of young love between gamer Cai (Elijah Canlas) and his fan Gavreel (Kokoy De Santos).

The creation of “Gameboys” is unique because interactions were mostly done over Zoom, given the limitations on production due to the coronavirus pandemic lockdowns. However, the chemistry between the characters was palpable even in onscreen interactions, in large part because of the actors’ prowess.

The protagonists’ friend Pearl (Adrianna So) has also become a fan favorite as she mediated between the ups and downs of Cai and Gav’s relationship. Veteran actress Sue Prado also shone in her tender portrayal of Cai’s mother. The strength of these female characters as drivers of the narrative all the more added up to the depth of the series.

So is also set to star in her own series, “Pearl Next Door”, The IdeaFirst Company announced last August.

The poster shows both male and female characters with her, with some fans hoping that Girls’ Love could also be portrayed. JB

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