“I Promise I Will Come Back” (Thai Series) is a hidden gem that takes you on an emotional roller coaster, all while subtly showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Thailand. Though the series has a good portion dedicated to promoting tourism, it never feels like a forced advertisement. Instead, the beauty of the locations is woven into the fabric of the story so seamlessly that it’s easy to forget you’re watching a promotional piece. As the lush landscapes unfold, you’re either lost in the beauty or swept away by the compelling love story that unfolds between the two leads. For an 8-episode series, each lasting about 45-50 minutes, it’s surprisingly captivating and deeply emotional.
The story revolves around Tontae and Nankrai, childhood best friends who have been inseparable for years. But right from the beginning, it’s evident that Nankrai harbors deeper feelings for Tontae. The tension is palpable—while Nankrai’s eyes reveal a love that runs much deeper, Tontae remains blissfully unaware, seeing his friend only as someone close, someone familiar. Tontae dreams of traveling the world, and his grasp of English makes him the perfect guide for Victor, a Taiwanese visitor who comes to explore the village and its surrounding areas. As the two boys spend time together, exploring the village and its culture, their bond deepens. What starts as a simple friendship slowly blossoms into something more tender, more profound. It’s one of those slow-burn romances where you can practically feel the electricity in the air. Their love is pure—there’s no hesitation, no doubt. It just is. And yet, for Nankrai, watching Tontae fall for someone else is like a knife to the heart. But he’s the kind of person who loves so fiercely that he only wants the best for Tontae, even if it means stepping aside.
When Victor leaves, he promises Tontae that he’ll reconnect and even invites him to Taiwan. Tontae, full of hope, eagerly awaits. But what he finds when he finally arrives in Taiwan shatters him—Victor has passed away in an accident. The heartbreak is unbearable. Tontae returns home, hoping to seek solace from Nankrai, but the universe has other plans. The series takes an unexpected turn, and the final episode leaves us in a whirlwind of confusion as time seems to rewind, presenting a different scenario where Tontae chooses Nankrai over Victor. But once again, this choice leads to heartache, and ultimately, someone else must leave this world.
Beyond the main love story, there’s a subplot involving a girl who persistently pursues Nankrai, and the close-knit circle of friends with whom he works. Speaking of Nankrai—wow. The man is a sight to behold. He has the kind of baby face that makes you want to protect him, but his body? Well, it’s the kind you’d expect to see sculpted in marble. A hardworking laborer with the physique of a Greek god, Nankrai’s beauty is nothing short of devastating. And when you realize that he is so utterly in love with his childhood friend that he practically worships him, it hits you in a way you can’t quite describe.
The love stories in this series are both tragic. Tontae never gets the happily-ever-after he hopes for, no matter which of his loves he chooses. Victor, with his exotic, irresistible charm, pulls Tontae in with a magnetic force. Meanwhile, Nankrai is the steady, silent flame—passionate, enticing, and mysterious in his own way. When the two are combined, sparks fly. But Tontae, in his innocent oblivion, never realizes just how deeply Nankrai feels for him. The way their relationship unfolds, especially between Tontae and Victor, is exquisitely portrayed. And honestly, I couldn’t get enough of the stunning locations and the cultural traditions that are showcased throughout the series. It gives you this wonderful sense of being right there, in that village, living and breathing in the same world as the characters.
Now, I have to admit that the fantasy elements in the final episode threw me for a loop. I mean, it was confusing, and it felt a little out of place in an otherwise grounded and emotional series. But despite that, everything else—the story, the performances, the chemistry—felt so real. You could feel the longing, the tension, the anticipation, and the delicate touches of romance. The actors did a fantastic job, particularly the three main leads. Their performances were so genuine, it was impossible not to get swept up in the story.
Oh, and did I mention there are some steamy scenes in this series? The chemistry between Tontae and Nankrai is so palpable that their moments together crackle with intensity. The river sequence between Tontae and Victor? Whew—it’s sizzling. The nudity isn’t shy, and Tontae’s exposed moments add to the raw honesty of the show. Honestly, this was a refreshing change from the usual city/university Thai BL dramas. It’s atmospheric, immersive, and you feel like you’re really there in the moment, experiencing the world with them.
If it weren’t for the slightly confusing ending, I would have rated this series even higher. It’s a beautiful exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of relationships, all wrapped up in the magic of Northern Thailand. It’s one of those series that stays with you long after the credits roll.
