I know you're a huge Pavel fan (as obviously we all should be), but what is your opinion on PoohPavel as a branded pair?
I was rereading some of your older posts about Thai language, culture, and branded pairs in BL to send to friends just starting their Thai BL watching journey and saw you mention you never thought he would actually stick to a pairing. Did the continued pairing of Pooh and Pavel after Pit Babe surprise you?
I rarely talk pairs these days, but since you ask such a detailed question about my bias, I have to answer. I love someone who pays attention. (Thank you!)
For those who are new to this blog, Pavel is my icon image (from 2 Moons 2). Interestingly enough, the 2 Moons franchise was the first time I remember paying attention to pair branding.
First because in the original 2 Moons KimCop stuck so unexpectedly hard (they were such minor sides in that) while the mains fractured so badly.
Second, because in 2 Moons 2 they, mostly, tried their best to do sm branding (early days), and Pavel was leaps and bounds the best at it. He speaks English very well, so he branded out for an international audience, and he's a fashion girlie which I respect.
I would say I mildly doubted his ability to stick with a pair because I couldn't see anyone able to keep up with him. Also I think his standards were v high but... I under estimated his ambition.
To be a major TV success at his age in Thailand these days, you pretty much have to have a solid pairing. There's no doubt in my head that Pavel knows this.
I should add he's one of those, from an online personality perspective, I could see making a Big Mistake. He's v cocky. (And by mistake I mean not by my standards, but by Thailand's. I'm not saying there is a hidden scandal or anything, just that he reads a bit WILD. It's attractive and fun to watch but also... careful there boyo you look hot shirtless on that type rope, but you don't have a safety net.)
At first I would say, yes, the PoohPavel pair surprised me and I would not have guessed it would last. I started Pit Babe doubtful about any possible longevity, but after watching the success of it AND of that pair, and their BTS and promo circuit activities, I'm not surprised anymore.
I'm not sure they have the decades long sticking power of something like MaxNat, OffGun, or ZeeNuNew because their relationship is so (culturally speaking) informal, they can't fall back on traditional dynamics when making brand decisions - by which I mean sponsorships and contract negotiations. But I think they will ride it together as long as they can.
I would call them a very modern form of pair brand, a contemporary twist, if you take my meaning. It will be interesting to watch them play out, if nothing else.
I do think the fact that Goddess is their follow up project with roles that so PERFECTLY suit their brand is doing them many favors. It's hard to imagine any other working pair today doing these particular roles justice.
I look forward to their next roles together. And I do think we will get more.
