#peace love and portwell

[goldengashes]

hey bestie, just wanna say i love your page. idk why r*nas have the need to send you portwell hate when they already won. like you're enjoying your ship on your own blog and they come and hate on you as if their ship isn't happy and sailing 💀

love your content, love you ❤

aw thanks! i don’t take it to heart and i sorta understand. i guess the rinas are a bit agitated by the hsmtmts cancellation. no one wins forever lol! sucks to suck. i mean, at least my ship is immortalized by the most incredible fic, tsbu and many other AUs on ao3 🥰

i try not to instigate fights over ships but boy, do i love entertaining bored anons on tumblr sometimes.

thanks for the love. have a great day <3

[soursfilms]

@ portwells, if you for a second even think that mack and gina could be serious you’re just plain dumb, i’m sorry. this is the only way i can articulate it at this point. this is the last season. i’m gonna need you to be so serious right now and use the brain that the lord gave you for once. both mack and dani are clear plot devices to add drama for rina, that’s it. they’re guest stars! and if you actually read interviews and articles, and reviews from screeners who watched the episodes early, you’d know that plot ends mid season. (woops spoiler but idgaf!) most of the stills of them are from the literal hsm4 movie they’re filming and he’s her childhood crush. i can promise you, gina, nor no one in real life is gonna end up with their childhood crush. (sorry to crush your dreams, but you will in fact not marry any one direction member that you had hanging up on a poster on your wall, and funny enough, gina has literal ¡placemats! with mack’s face on it if you look at the dinner table still because gina and her mom were fans of his show. a show in which ricky took the theme song of to write a song for gina and was released as a sneak peak already. extremely unserious all around)

portwells want to cling unto them because they’re bitter, as if we can’t see right through you. i wonder if y’all have ever watched an actual teen drama show in your life. clearly y’all haven’t and apparently haven’t seen interviews with the actual creator of the show speaking about the plot lines about HIS story, because if you did you would not be hitting post on your absurd takes. (not to mention, gina and ricky are clearly in love with each other. that’s something you all need to make peace with. especially if you claim to like gina, just accept it and be happy for her that she’s happy even if you don’t necessarily are a fan. he’s the guy she wants and you cannot change that.)

also, saw someone say ej and ricky being older means they’re both in different life stages than her so they wouldn’t work out?? (first, you don’t even know how old mack is. so i know you feel very stupid right now) and that’s not the same and you know it. gina still had TWO years to go in high school compared to ej, and she tried to make a future with him (those are her words) but it didn’t work out because it was not meant to be. mentally they were in different places. ricky and gina are only a year apart and closer in mindsets, and there’s actual love between them, that they will fight for (in the words of can i have this dance which they sang as a #real ship does “what we have is worth fighting for”) you cannot compare the writing of rina to portwell. one is clearly developed and well written and favored by the writer of the show, while the other was a plot device….let’s stop being bitter and just be at peace with the story the creator wanted to create. if you don’t like it just do not watch.

[brekker-by-brekkerr]

Apart from getting so little screen time, I enjoyed what they did with EJ this season: him being supportive of everyone, the Portwell closure was done well (excepting the risotto part) and him being in the actual play. I mean, yes, I would have loved to see more of him and to find out more about his life (apart from his few lines in ep 5 where he talked about that), but I am grateful for what I got. Also, that scene with Ricky where EJ gives him advice was so sweet and almost made me cry. Both actors were so great and also the background music fits so well in that scene.

hi anon! thank you for this ask!!

i agree with you on all of this!! I'm feeling the same way, where i would have loved all the EJ screentime possible but was grateful he got as much as he did and that it was good content too. like the fact that he got a serious song, the writers touched on where he's at in life now, he's so at peace with himself and has matured so much, he got to participate in the show, he was with the wildcats on their denny's trip, gina addressed him in her speech to all the characters, portwell got closure, him being an older brother to ricky--it was all so good and so much more than i ever expected for him from this season.

i feel so much more at peace with the show than i did after season3--basically the opposite of how i felt then, actually. i was so devastated at the end of last season on so many levels but especially seeing how low the show brought EJ, like he went through so much in s3. the scene where he's crying calling his dad and the only person there for him is Val broke me. so i'm just so beyond happy to see him happy and thriving and also so happy to have gotten some closure.

(also yes, still upset about the risotto line. like they didn't have to take that from us like that it was so unnecessary😭)

[powertwell]

OHHH WOWW with this season!!!😭🤩❤️❤️ Okay guys so this is going to be very long but I need to get this out hahah.

I´ve been busy with work this weeks and I finally binge watched S4

My thoughts on this season are a lot, it was LITERALLY a freaking rollercoaster of emotions, so much laughs, surprise, nostalgia, pureness, love, angst, sadness but above all LOVE!! Love in all ways, all of them really... This is something that resonates with me when I process everything that happened.

It was just too muchh, and actually I feel sorry for my anger towards Tim on the fact that he broke up Portwell and not just that, like the way it happened. I need to say and IT´S FAIR to do it, that he made an amazing job with all of the writing, RESPECT SIR. I know he isn´t perfect, he screwed up sometimes but who doesn´t? I think he nailed it with the writing, he dropped so much bombs in the most clever way and made everything make sense with Rina!

I´m a Portwell and will always love and remember my ship for who THEY WERE while dealing with what they dealt, and for the connection and support they had for one another! They were different people, specially EJ who was trying to be strong and be the best boyfriend he possibly could. But I truly recognize the development and growth Ricky and Gina had, both together grew on me and have a pice of my heart. Ricky made a quantum leap in maturity and in his emotional stability and made me proud for all he did for his girl, so as Gina. I understood her better and made myself remember the queen she is. Now, finally i can say RINA DESERVES EACHOTHER. God they´re adorable and JOSH AND SOFIA almost killed me with their perfect acting. So much talent and love in this cast, I love them.

Anyways this was A LOT and I could´ve said more about the other characters but speaking in general this season is so much worth to watch, it´s beautiful and REALISTIC! I love Olivia and all but I didn´t miss her, my point is that the season was so awesome that I didn´t actually care she wasn´t on the finale. I´m gonna miss my favorite series but I´m in peace and proud of everyone in this show!! This show is special in many ways and everyone should see it and understand the message of inclusion, love and acceptance, as well as the importance of having a safe space with people who love and understand you. THANKS TIM FEDERLE, THANKS TO EVERY SINGLE CAST MEMBER who left something in our hearts from their character! HSMTMTS has to live on for next generations!❤️❤️❤️👏👏👏

[sunset-bobby]

It’s a crappy world when your favs are in a love triangle and you want all of them to be happy.

EJ if rina happens i hope ur still happy healthy and thriving in ur directorial debut

Ricky if portwell continues it’s okay i hope that you find inner peace and work towards bettering your mental health and being happy

Gina my love i just want you to be the badass you are. you don’t need them but also they’re both hot so good choices

Tim just let me have a healthy poly relationship viva la ericka

[violet--vance]

My prediction: Love triangle happens between EJ, Ricky and Gina. The friendship between EJ and Ricky doesn’t last (for this season anyway). EJ is insecure and is convinced Ricky and Gina have feelings for one another. Meanwhile Ricky becomes jealous of EJ and Gina, initially thinking it’s because he wishes he was EJ. After talking to Carlos about it, he comes to the realization that he actually has a crush on EJ which would lead to S4 and him really figuring out his sexuality while also being really awkward with EJ. I think the end of the season will come to Ricky opening the door for his own questioning after an entire season of typical love triangle shenanigans

Let me start by saying I’d be so so so SO here for an unrequited Caswen moment. I’d lose my mind over an actual canon, but I’m at fully at peace knowing that’s not in the cards haha

I can see a triangle happening again, but I do think (and hope) they’d explore it in a ways that’s a bit different from what they’ve done before w/o EJ & Ricky pitted against each other for a girl. I can see Gina still having leftover feelings bubbling for Ricky (the way she looks at him in the first eps, like. Ok I’m not blind), and Ricky having feelings for EJ, while EJ’s trying to hold onto feelings with Gina. I hope Ricky isn’t the reason portwell breaks up (if they do)—I could see EJ’s directing responsibilities + the looming leaving for college + the diff stages of life that they’re at (Gina’s in the ‘first’ experiences, EJ in his ‘lasts’ causing a rift).

Oh what I’d give for a panicked EJ to Ricky confrontation—“I know you’re trying to break us up because you want to be with Gina, Bowen.” EJ’s glaring at him from across the cabin, and Ricky wishes he could sink into a hole in the floor. EJ looks attractive even in his anger. Ricky pushes the thought down in shame.

“I’m not,” Ricky says softly. He can’t even look at the senior. EJ scoffs, rolls his eyes. Ricky has to force his next words out through panicked breaths. “….I’m not trying to steal Gina; I don’t even want to be with Gina, I—it’s you, EJ—” the older boy blinks, as if startled. Ricky wants to be anywhere but here. “—I like you, the way you think I like her.”

For Ricky, part of me wants the questioning-figuring-it-out arc with a long Carlos (or even Val) talk, but part of me would LOVE if when they introduce his feelings for guys without the whole I’m Coming-Out And It’s A Whole Thing About Me Now arc. I really like the idea of Ricky always knowing, and being at peace with it—even if he hasn’t necessarily flaunted his sexuality in the past. I think growing up with good influences (and being so close w/Nini & her moms) would have given him time when he was younger to question & realize he’s bi, and feel safe with the knowledge. I like the idea of his parents, Nini, her moms, and Big Red knowing this for quiteee some time, and him feeling @ peace with his sexuality from the get-go—even if it’s not something he widely broadcasts (bc I personally relate to this)

[yasmini24]

the season finale is next week and we have some things to cover

-THE HARNESS. lily stole the harness, howie may have been an accomplice, kourtney thinks howie is being weird (he's being weird because of the harness) and THE SHOW MUST STILL GO ON EVEN WITHOUT THE HARNESS

- ricky realising lily and her intentions (our guy is gullible)

- PORTWELL AND THEIR DATE. after what jamie said, ej is not sure if gina actually likes him and the date might be cancelled. gina is gonna be heartbroken because she doesn't know what jamie said to ej. so they need to have a talk and kiss.

- NINI AND GINA TALKING ABOUT THE CHOCOLATE SITUATION. this episode was opening night, so there couldn't be any drama between anyone. I want them to clear the air and be besties!!

- SPEAKING ABOUT NINI, I loved how nini was a emotional pillar for everyone. her character was really nice and I'd love to see more of that AND director nini. ALSO, we all saw the sneak peak where gina and nini talk about her music opportunities right??? WE NEED SOME MORE INFORMATION ON THAT

- RINA CLOSURE!!!! ricky and gina need to have a talk just to close up whatever they had.

- MISS JENN APOLOGIZING TO ALL OF THEM FOR HER BEHAVIOR

- MENKIES AWARDS

- ANTOINE MAKING ANOTHER APPEARANCE (seriously, where's my child?)

- KOWIE, REDLYN and SEBLOS FLUFF (in chaos, there must be peace and we all saw that promo photo with kourt, howie and her mom)

- mr. mazzara and ms. jenn development

-nini and ricky becoming FRIENDS again

- BATB CAST FLUFF. just them all laughing and having fun. they need it after all the shit they went through with north high, ms. jenn, relationship messes...

ALL OF THIS IS TO HAPPEN IN PRESUMABLY 30 MINUTES (unless tim extended the time)

feel free to add on!!!

[heiterbroward]

Hsm: the waste: the series

Ok so right off the bat, is anyone else bothered by noticing that multiple different relationships seem to be developing the same dynamic? The guys all become huge simps for the girls just for the couple to actually get together and for it to reverse w the girl having to give the guy constant reassurance bc he's insecure for whatever reason.

This was especially seen w Redlyn's plot. How was she supposed to know what his dreams were if he never said? Especially since he always acts embarrassed about the tap dancing...like maybe Ashlyn misinterpreted it and thought he was too scared to pursue that in the future or something. Also why was he so jealous of the French guy? Was Ashlyn supposed to tell him to let her fall that one time? It's not like Big Red was there to catch her. Also don't like how their season plot started w her being insecure about playing Belle just for him to give her one sentence of vapid praise and then it was never brought up again. Also, saying "you're perfect" when she's feeling insecure doesn't really help like he might think it would bc it kind of just invalidates Ashlyn's insecurity and makes it seem like she's ridiculous for even thinking about it. Whatever Gina said seemed to give her more comfort. But then the rest of their S2 arc was spent w him getting insecure about something every episode and her having to reassure him that she actually likes him.

This also happened w Rini although not for long bc Nini peaced out after a sec, and I'm worried it might happen w Portwell, but I'll get to those dweebs in a min. Also why did Mr. M become totally whipped for Miss Jenn this season? I liked when their dynamic was more balanced; now, it seems like he is madly in love w her and she got the ick from him. Luckily, I care about them zero percent!

Another thing is that the competition was ultimately pointless af! Like I knew it wouldn't be satisfying whether they won or lost, but they didn't even reveal it? Ok? Wasted the whole yr ig! Miss Jenn became mentally disturbed for what? Plus wouldn't it make more sense if they didn't open the results at the end bc they realized how much the Menkies tore them apart this year bc they only cared about winning and lost sight of their passion? But no...they maintained throughout the whole time that they're still a big happy family, so I guess the awards didn't affect them? Besides just making them indifferent to the results for some bizarre reason.

Why is this show so anti-ambition? Heart and ambition don't have to be mutually exclusive. When Nini went to YAC (so damn irrelevant but anyways...), she was iced out of the friend group and portrayed as lonely and miserable and bored bc she chose to pursue her ambition rather than stay w her friends at East High. I get the point they were trying to make, but Nini seems like an ambitious character who just hadn't gotten the chance to explore that side of herself bc she never believed in herself enough to go for it. Oh well ig she has to give it up for Ricardo and her friends. Also, Gina's whole thing about "taking a step back" it's like...from what? You get no leads (except offscreen pre-pilot ig? Idk). And now, they have to prove they only care about family by not checking if they won even though there's nothing inherently wrong w being competitive as long as you're not undermining people to achieve your goals. Like are they gonna act like they weren't spying on the other school and making diss tracks back to them instead of rehearsing? But that wasn't addressed.

And tbh it made it seem like Miss Jenn only wanted to drop out bc she was nervous to perform against Derek Hough bc otherwise why was that scene w her and Seblos talking about it included? But now she can have an out while also taking the moral high-ground and claiming they quit bc they're above it or something. Self reflection = none. Also love how she was willing to go get pizza for Ricky but not Carlos. What happened to that dynamic?

Also, why did every episode end w a cliffhanger that was resolved offscreen by the beginning of the next ep? Oh no, Gina's moving! Jk her mom said no. Oh no, EJ has to tell his dad about Duke! Jk they talked offscreen and the dad is ok enough w it (why was it built up so much then?). Oh no, Carlos recorded the Rose Song! Jk Nini doesn't care. Oh no, Ricky and Ashlyn fell! Jk they're fine and can still perform. Oh no, Lily stole the harness! Jk they did Ricky's transformation offscreen and it went great...k guess I'll take your word for it. So much telling instead of showing going on this season.

Something else annoying is how every conflict was the result of miscommunication and how they would spend time resolving problems that were created that episode instead of actually addressing things that were going on. So many passive aggressive elephants in the room and no fights.

Why did Rina seemingly forget who each other is? I don't even ship this, but it makes no narrative sense after they spent so much time giving them dialogue that was exactly what the other needed to hear just for it to result in nothing. Ricky was the first one to say that Gina isn't intimidating and to get her to soften up, and Gina told Ricky she wouldn't quit on them if she was staying. What was the point of that flashback? They had a deep friendship and one they both desperately need when you consider how quickly they jump at any opportunity to connect w someone experiencing similar issues as them (Gina spilled her guts to Jack once she found out he always moves, too and Ricky gained sympathy for Lily once he found out her parents are also divorced). Why didn't they try to talk at all the whole rest of the season? Did they even process their feelings for each other or just to choose to ignore them? Ig ignore them since Gina shifted all her attention to spending 24/7 w EJ and Ricky decided to call up knock-off Gina aka Lily. Are they ever gonna talk again or?

Also Nini and Gina barely scratched the surface of talking about things bc Nini stormed out of the room like she always does to avoid conversations. Rini took too long to break up. The drama should come from the fall out, not the long-ass build up, just to result in a treehouse conversation that summarizes what's been happening instead of digging deeper into either of their mindsets. "We've been miscommunicating all year!" Yeah, we know. But what about Nini reflecting on why she impulsively got back together w Ricky just to, a couple months later, not even be able to say she wants to fight for the relationship? What about Ricky explaining whatever was going on w Gina? How much does Nini even know about that? Couldn't Gina/Nini or Ricky/EJ talk about how it's weird how they keep dating the same people? Or be jealous about it or something? Anything besides ignoring each other!

Seblos was also weird. Why did they spend the first few eps setting up a conflict that Seb is poor and Carlos is rich and keeps making him uncomfortable by buying him things just for it to never be talked about again? And why did Carlos make comments suggesting he was jealous of Seb being in the play w him just for that never to be brought up between the two? The only time they addressed a conflict was when they randomly decided to make up a problem that episode about Seb being insecure about Carlos and other guys or something. Like ok? Couldn't you have addressed all these other issues and passive aggressive comments that have been bubbling beneath the surface instead of making up a new problem just for the episode to have a plot? Bc of course it will never be brought up again next ep.

When did this show become so episodic and plot-based? S1 had more of an overarching plot and more character focus, including different friendship dynamics. But ig this season, people can only talk to the person they're dating. Also why was Carlos so rude and randomly classist this season? It seemed like whenever Seb was upset about something, he would get annoyed as opposed to concerned. And a song (which was Ricky's idea and not even Carlos's) doesn't fix the issue.

Howie was just being weird. Like he was making all faces and acting sus on opening night bc...Kourtney was just SO good! ...Next!

Next up is Portwell and EJ's character development this season in general. Didn't really like it! Everyone is saying EJ had such great character development this season, but why did his entire development happen offscreen? There are also so few remnants of his S1 self that it's almost unbelievable. Like he's no longer the least bit arrogant, ambitious, image-obsessed, etc? And he didn't speak to anyone about this really either. It's like he sat in a room alone by himself for hours and came to all these conclusions himself out of the blue and came back to school the next day a changed man. It would have been more beneficial to see more of this rather than being told about it. They're trying to market EJ as part of the "core 4" but don't want to give him the same relevance and depth as Ricky, Nini, or Gina. Then again, Nini's development has also been totally odd this season. But anyways!

It's also a little annoying that what triggered EJ to want to change was getting cancelled last season. So he realized he wasn't well-liked and therefore decided to get a personality transplant. But sometimes it seems more like he wants to look or feel like a good person rather than it coming from a place of genuine compassion or kindness in his heart.

Like last year, EJ claimed to "love" Nini, but the only pain he feels about their relationship is from shame and a bruised ego? The only thing he's proud about in that relationship is letting her go. You're not proud of building her up and helping her to believe in herself more? You're just happy that you had a chance to step up and be the hero on opening night by "letting her go" back to Ricky. He didn't even really let her go though since she was done w him way before that. Also bc of his relationship w Nini, he's afraid to be rejected again. So which is it? Were you such a bad boyfriend that you have nothing but shame about the way you acted, or do you feel rejected? If he knew he was being a bad boyfriend, he should know why he got rejected.

They try to parallel Gina and EJ's respective heartbreaks, but it's not the same at all. Gina got rejected bc Ricky chose Nini, but EJ got rejected bc of his own actions. It MIGHT make sense if he said he was nervous Gina would reject him bc she still has lingering feelings for Ricky, but of course that was never brought up and he's ok w the chocolates, so...what is he so nervous/confused about? It's like he thinks that last year, he was a "bad guy" and was rejected bc of it, but this year he's trying to be a "good guy" so if he puts in all this effort to do all these gestures for Gina and STILL gets rejected, then he really can't do anything right. He needs to learn to do good deeds from an internal place and not as a way to get validation or to feel like a good person.

I also don't like how he became friends w Gina AFTER it was implied that he had a crush on her. People say they had build up since S1, but there was no consistent friendship. They schemed together once, then he got her the plane ticket, then they didn't talk again until Carlos's party when he looked at her all lovey dovey. I think part of him latches on to the idea of Gina as representing his "goodness" or new start bc the first good deed he did was getting her the plane ticket. This made him feel like a good person, so he wanted to continue doing good deeds, especially for Gina since she helped "change him." But I wish they had maintained an onscreen friendship for a while BEFORE he started developing feelings for her. It's weird that he decided to become friends w her only when she's heartbroken and feeling down and also living at Ashlyn's house.

Like of course she's gonna latch onto you bc she's so lonely and seeking any kind of intimacy/stability. You're basically inserting yourself into the family unit that she's inhabiting, the wondering why she may view you as a brother. It's because all the things you're doing are coming off more like gestures a family member would do to "take care" of someone rather than something romantic. Gina needs a family, and the Caswells are supposed to be her surrogate family. I just don't want her to feel pressured to have romantic interest in him bc he's a nice guy and has been doing so many gestures for her and bc it would be very convenient to date someone in her surrogate family/built in support system. I don't want her feelings for him to be intellectualized and based on logic or for a million other people to have to tell her that she likes him when she had no problem expressing her crushes on Ricky or Jack. What makes EJ any different? Does she like him bc it "makes sense" and bc she is latching onto him for stability or bc she has genuine feelings for EJ and his personality? Not sure bc the show didn't even address her feelings for Ricky or how/if she processed that, so...DID she process that, or is she just jumping headfirst into spending 25/8 w EJ to distract herself from difficult emotions? I would have preferred if she at least sorted things out w Chard THEN made a conscious realization that she liked EJ more and chose to be w him. At least then, the narrative would be direct and intentional.

I just really wish EJ had a storyline outside of Gina being a symbol of his "development," like maybe he could have talked to Nini about their futures since they were both experiencing the same issue about school choices, or maybe do more w Mr. M and behind the scenes work? Also was really annoying that Gina bawled her eyes out more than ever after EJ cancelled their date, even harder than she ever cried about Ricky. It's like she was broken after that so she tried to use EJ as her final chance to build a connection and was depending on him so hard for emotional support, just to be blindsided and left feeling "off-putting" or like she needs to not only run away but also to put her walls back up. Like this was the last straw for her emotionally.

I thought the appeal of Portwell was that while Ricky made her cry and was constantly vague and unclear about his feelings, EJ was consistently there for her and she knew where she stood w him and that he would stay and not let her down. But now EJ is making her cry, too, being vague, and having miscommunication? All for the sake of them having a last minute complication just for it to result in Gina ONCE AGAIN having to be the one to put herself out there and express her feelings to EJ bc he was feeling insecure and din't come talk to her about it. For once, can't someone be the one to confess their feelings to her? Otherwise, what's the difference between Rina and Portwell if she has to deal w the same problems? Like no, SHOW why he's the better option for her, don't make him act stupid just to cause drama for a second. He was pretty intuitive last year about Rini still having feelings for each other, so why is he oblivious this time around? And why did he go talk to Ashlyn about it but not Gina? That's like last season when he talked to Ashlyn about his problems w Nini instead of bringing it up to her. Why does he keep making the same mistakes? Gina needs someone to be direct and secure in their feelings for her. She can't be expected to coddle EJ, who already has way more relationship experience, bc he will make assumptions about her without addressing it to her face and lead w his insecurities even when she is clearly hurt by what he's saying. Could he not tell she was upset he cancelled the date or??

Also unrelated, but why did they make Ricky mess w Nini's phone and delete stuff just like EJ did to her last season? Once again, SHOW why Ricky is the better option for Nini. Otherwise, she might as well have just stayed w EJ if there's no difference anyway, right?

The villains this season were also so irrelevant. Like where did Derek Hough go after he talked to Miss Jenn that one time? And couldn't Lily have been more involved if they're gonna force this plot of her liking Ricky?

With the amount of underdevelopment going on, Nini should have just transferred to North High instead of YAC and had a storyline there about choosing between ambition and friends or whatever. Then, she could've gotten to know Howie, Lily, French guy, etc, and it would intertwine the characters more. And also create more tension for Nini when she finally transfers back to East High and had to compete against her former classmates in the Menkies.

Instead, Lily's only relevance is to randomly have a crush on Ricky even though she spent the whole time manipulating him. Why does he even like her? If I was Big Red, I would get mad bc Lily has done nothing but be cutthroat to his supposed friends and make Ashlyn insecure all season. Doesn't he care about that? Or does he want to ignore his own problems yet again and focus all his energy onto "saving" or "fixing" Lily? He's so codependent. He and Nini both need to stop being so self-centered about their feelings.

I wish Ricky and Nini had developed a genuine passion for theatre by now like Troy and Gabriella did, but it seems like they could always take or leave whether they're in it or not. Does Ricky even have any passions outside of being codependent on girlfriends? The career test suggests not.

And Nina needs to learn to be a better friend. All season, Kourtney has been dealing w shit and her only advice is "you can handle it; you're Kourtney!" Like ok? Kourtney gives you all support and helps build you up, but is expected to figure everything out on her own bc she's "strong" and "independent." That doesn't mean she doesn't also need emotional support!

Plus why were all the songs so overproduced? I like the acoustic feel of S1 bc it added more emotional impact. I felt nothing from any of the songs this season. Cool!

[insomniactalks]

as much as i love pw, and like you said you can't generalise a whole fandom- these types of situations always act as a wake up call to the people you're interacting with online. I always love to talk about pw with my followers etc but seeing how some portwells are reacting to this situation is honestly scaring me. especially considering a lot of them are on the older side of the fandom. there's one person in particular who at this point I'm pretty sure is known for this type of thing not only in the pw fandom but the hsmtmts fandom in general. you probably already know who I'm talking about but she's 22 and has been openly shipping matt and sof since even before she turned 18, literally posting an age gap calculator to justify it. and yesterday was going crazy on Instagram saying her favourite irl ship is happening and a bunch of other stuff. and there's another person that's friends with them and who's on here a lot (user rhymes with pw fashions) who ships them too. sorry for the rant it's just that I saw your post and it was nice to see that are other portwells who agree that their behaviour is inappropriate and embarassing for other pws

No need to apologize for the rant, anon! I get it. 😊 I'm glad you agreed w/ my post.❤ I don't want to engage in bashing other ppl behind their backs, so I'll try to keep my comments on them to a minimum. There's only a handful of Portwells (I'm literally talking 4-5 max) in the entire fandom I've seen that ship the actors in real life or want them t/g. Clearly, that's not the majority of us b/c we know how to differentiate b/t fact and fiction. We ship Portwell. 😄 That's all. I believe I know the 2 ppl you're referring to in your ask. One of them seemed truly remorseful for their actions, and I think we need to practice forgiveness more often in this world. We are so quick to judge that we forget we're all human. We make mistakes. We should try to forgive, if not for them, at least for our own peace of mind. There are some in this fandom (and any fandom honestly) that refuse to admit they may be wrong about some things. I can understand that you may not care what other ppl say about you on the internet, that's your personal choice. But your opinions/beliefs become an issue when ppl in the fandom start attacking and dragging the actors you're basing these opinions/beliefs on. If you want to secretly ship them b/c you can't help it, fine, but do it privately (not publicly b/c you're inviting ppl to attack you and the actors themselves). Matt and Sofia don't deserve to have ppl in this fandom dragging them and making dumb assumptions about their private lives on the internet. If you truly care about their wellbeing, you wouldn't make posts promoting the possibility of them dating and giving ppl on the internet the opportunity to attack them because of your personal opinion on their lives. You have the right to ship and speculate on Portwell all you want b/c they exist w/in the world of fiction. However, Matt and Sofia have a reasonable expectation of privacy. Their lives are not up for speculation b/c Matt and Sofia are NOT EJ and Gina. They just play these characters on TV. 🤷🏽‍♀️

(Also tagging Rina b/c some of y'all are dragging Matt on Twitter over baseless accusations. You're not protecting Sofia by behaving this way. Just like it's wrong to ship Matt and Sofia in real life, it's also wrong to jump on the bandwagon and attack an actor's livelihood/reputation. Two wrongs do not make a right. 🤨)

[wondreternity]

This episode, like the last was kind of filler-ish, imo. Not that I didn't enjoy them both but I think I liked this one more.

First of all Ricky, I personally liked the development he went through this episode. Realizing that singing that song wouldn't really be letting Nini go. And helping Carlos instead. I am living for the Ricky & Carlos friendship (even tho he looked sorta out of place in that seblos moment lol). And I liked that he's slowly coming out of his own little world, which the writers made a point of showing. It would've been a really good episode for him if he hadn't fallen to his death. Like the poor thing can't have ONE peaceful day. This is also why I said this episode felt like filler, because all that really happened was a sleepover (and all of them shipping portwell which I loved btw). They didn't even fix their set problem, only injured their lead instead.

Anyway Nini, so I'm assuming they wanted to show that she's not over ricky? From the whole why haven't I heard of this comment. I have too many thoughts about this so I'll just make a separate post about it. That being said, I did love the little Nini and Seb moments I think they have the cutest friendship.

Seblos is just so pure?? I didn't care for them much in season 1 because they didn't get much screen time. But I am loving them this season. Same with Redlyn, just so wholesome and cute.

I think this episode was good for EJ and Gina together and separately. It finally touched on how his break up with Nini affected him. He genuinely cared for her, and thought he was doing the right thing. But ended up getting dumped, and willingly let Ricky her ex go on stage and sing with her on opening night. Which was all he ever wanted to do. Like that is some traumatizing stuff. Same with Gina it showed how skeptical she was after the whole ricky debacle. Afraid to think of anything more than just a sweet gesture.

Also the whole risotto thing? cute af. Just another random thing that symbolizes portwell for me, even thought they seemingly have no connection without context. Risotto along with Duke, granola bars, airports, fake dating, the word babe, and not that I know of will forever be labelled as portwell stuff in my head. That was a lot more than thought actually. Like can we talk about how many parallels and tropes they have?

Someone needs to add, 'liking each other but being afraid of rejection', 'mutual pining', and 'they thought they were subtle, but everyone knew', to the list of tropes.

And that's all, I won't make this longer than it already is lmao.

[leabethchase]

Portwell scenarios that I've come up with in my head that will most likely never happen in the show

Part 3 (Part 1, Part 2)

EJ keeps thinking of different ways to tell Gina he likes her, but words expressing his feelings have never been his strong suit. But one thing that's always helped him express himself was music. So once again he tries to write a song, this time for Gina. After the disater that was his last song,this time he takes his time and asks for Ashlyn's help to make it flow well, because he wants it to be PERFECT. And after a few weeks of hard work he's got a ballad, something slow that he can sing while playing his guitar. It takes him another few weeks to actually sing it to her, but on one of their many nights hanging out watching movies she's just looking too perfect and he can't help but blurt out that he wrote something for her. And she's so shocked when he pulls out his guitar and starts singing one of the most beautiful and thoughtful songs she's ever heard. And its not perfect, but its perfect to her, and maybe, just maybe, she finds herself in love with him too

After a week of arguments and rehearsals filled with mistakes, Ms. Jenn decides that the kids need a group bonding. So she enacts a mandatory sleepover in the drama club where they'll do different activities in hopes of bringing them all together. EJ and Gina naturally gravitate towards one another during the partner workouts until Ms. Jenn forces them to partner with other members. And even then they can't help but make faces at one another across the room and share secret looks. And when its time to set up their sleeping bags EJ and Gina shove themselves to the side and stay up most of the night playing silly games and telling stories. And when they eventually fall asleep they don't notice their hands clasped together between them.

EJ feels bad because Gina, the crafty girl she is, keeps making him gifts. From the beanie and scarf she knitted him to the matching "Team Wonderstudy" shirts she created, EJ is feeling quite spoiled. So he decides that he wants to make something special for her as well, to show her that he loves appreciates her. It takes him a few days to figure it out, but when Gina starts complaining about how her favorite shoes are starting to wear and tear he finally comes up with the perfect gift. He spends days working on it, making sure they're as perfect as he can make them, beford showing up at her locker with a horribly wrapped box in his hand. Gina is both surprised and excited at the sudden gift, and tears through the wrapping paper with enthusiasm that warms EJ's heart. Her eyes widen and her mouth drops open as she opens the box and EJ's grin widens, proud. Inside lie personalized, painted shoes. They were bright and colorful with her name on the sides in a graffiti design and a silhouette of a girl dancing. And on the inside of the lip is a small "Love, EJ" in his surprisingly neat handwriting. Gina looks up at him in wonder and he couldn't help but blush under her admiring gaze. When she launches herself at him in a tight hug and boasts about how much she loves them and how perfect they are, the only thing he could think to himself was that he definitely needed to make her things more often

Gina is finally fed up with Ricky's ways, and one night she finds herself sitting at Ash's piano singing a song she wrote about how much he's hurt her and how she'll no longer be around for him to use whenever its convenient (Listen to Trick of the Moon" by Eloise, she's a tiktoker, I imagine this being the song that Gina "writes"). EJ comes in and silently listens to her, in awe that she could write something so heartbreaking and beautiful. And afterwards, when she realizes that he's there, he manages to get the truth about who the song is about and let's just say EJ would be PISSED. Protective boyfriend friend mode ACTIVATED.

As we've decided, EJ definitely gives big Marvel fan vibes. Ricky comes off as a DC fan and I know that when EJ finds out Gina likes Ricky he'd be like "you can't trust a guy that thinks DC is better than Marvel. That should have been your first sign he was no good."

Whenever Gina or EJ are upset or in a bad mood they'll spend the day at the park. Most of the time no words are exchanged between them. Its their safe place. Their place away from all the things troubling them. If they want to talk about what's bothering them they'll do it at Ash's house or school, but not the park. No, they're silent at the park. Just sitting in peace next to their oak tree, and observing as people come and go. Sometimes EJ will bring their favorite snacks. And sometimes Gina will collect small flowers sprouting around and make a flower crown. And without a word she'll gently place it on EJ's head, and EJ always shoots her a gentle smile, silently preening under her affection. And they'll just be at peace.

[starrrbakerrr]

considering the reasons why they broke up, pw shouldn't even be a possibility anymore BUT i still don't trust tim and i'm scared he might pull something for the sake of drama and drag the love triangle out into s4..... i just want peace please he needs to let that ship die.

I know right! I am leaning towards that interaction meaning nothing. Last week we saw Gina asking EJ to dance in the promo and we all know how that turned out 😅. We just gotta trust the process and eventually Rina will be together without Portwell hovering over them :)

[toomanyopinionss]

I… am satisfied.

No really, I am.

I have never felt more at peace watching this finale, it was amazing.

I’m glad we didn’t see the portwell kiss, it keeps me wanting more

I’m glad Rini stayed broken up, we can see them grow as people.

I’m glad Ricky called Lily, it makes me want to slap her still.

I’m glad we had that Big Red and Ash moment, my love for them intensified (couple goals, tbh… where’s my other half??)

I’m glad we had that Nini and Gina conversation, made their relationship seem more heartfelt and beautiful, imo.

I’m glad we didn’t even see the rest of opening night, because it should be about the characters, not the show.

🤞🏾🤞🏾🤞🏾

Season 3 pleeeaaassse???

A Couple of Honorable Mentions:

KOURTNEY IS QUEEN, DON’T YALL FORGET (howie better not)

Miss Jenn deserves happiness and a nap for pulling these crazy children together for this incredible performance.

Natalie could also use a nap tbh

THE SONG (u know the one) was so freakin good.

[klausalvatores]

I am going to be honest most Rina shippers are the most toxic fans in this fandom like I get it that they want their ship to become canon but at this point I don't think its going to happen this season. Most Rina fans I think are rude maybe its because I ship Portwell. They think they know everything when they aren't even the writers they don't know if Rina is the endgame or not. Portwell is better than Rina IMO because they make each other happy and bring out the best in each other.

We been knew Rinas (& Rinis) are the most toxic in this fandom. We, Portwells literally be staying in our own unproblematic lane, watching our ship sail in peace while BOTH of Ricky’s relationships are burning to the ground.

Portwell definitely be radiating soulmate energy, I’m not even kidding.

“What’s a soulmate?”

“A soulmate is like a best friend but more”

“It’s the one person who knew you and accepted you and believed in you before anyone else did or when no one else would” (tell me this doesn’t scream 2x08)

“And no matter what happens, you'll always love them. Nothing can ever change that”

- Dawson’s Creek

[notbadweird]

It’s the fact that I never openly diss them and the moment they see shit they don’t like, they screenshot it and bring it to another app. They were the ones who were rude first, like I didn’t say shit wrong at all. Why is it so hard for people to fucking SCROLL!! Y’all know how many things I see on these apps that I don’t like, A FUCK TON!! But one thing you won’t catch me doing is being petty asf and exposing the person on another app and talking shit about them. Like WTF do people gain from doing that, NOTHING! I was the one told to leave, I was just speaking fucking facts. I have the evidence saying that Joe ships Portwell but of course I get attacked for the fucking truth cause people can’t handle the truth nowadays. Sofia…I’m sorry you have people who love you but treat other people like dogshit. I know you wouldn’t be happy with their behavior because I’m not happy and neither are a bunch of other people. Like it’s the fact that this shit never come to me directly, I always find out through other people that I am being attacked over something I said and never directly. I cannot believe I actually tried I be nice and hope that this could end but I realized that as long as they spread negativity behind peoples backs, peace will never be an option. Still will never stoop down to their level and expose them because I actually have morals and fighting randoms online gets us fucking nowhere. It’s common sense that I forget many people in this world lack. My Portwells, stay strong for me cause I’m slowly falling…

[deonideatta]

It's always like that with the fandoms of love triangle shows lol no peace just problems 😂😂

Even if portwell isn't endgame it'll be so sad to have them fallout just because of some easily avoidable argument :/

WELL EPISODE 3 PORTWELL

they were being really cute in the beginning of the episode, ej got gina flowers because she got the lead in the musical!!!! she is anna in frozen!!!!!!!

but then the episode progressed into ej being really stressed about directing, half the episode was him highlighting the scripts for a table read because the director of the tv show that the musical is gonna be brodcasted on is coming early in the morning to film the table read. so ej is doing the actual work while tv director is doing almost nothing. I KNOW ITS A LOT

with all of this, gina is feeling neglected and theres a scene where her, ricky (love triangle boy) and another friend comes into his tent (because theyre camping this episode) and ej kinda breaks and is like 'i cant do this right now im really busy' so gina pulls them out of the tent

this also serves as a moment sequence for gina and ricky because they go look for this shrine in the woods (ghost story thing) so BONDING (ngl it was kinda cute-)

but yeah TENSIONS

i want them to COMMUNICATE please im begging

Yesss thanks for the rundown bestie!!! I was lurking in the tag for a bit when it was trending and there were so many people fighting lol but a lot of people who ship gina with the other guy were very happy this week it seems 😂

The flowers thooo that's rlly cute 😭😭 I just hope they don't have a fallout due to some stupid misunderstanding/miscommunication (kdrama style lol), that's one of my least favourite plot directions haha

Hoping for them to talk it out next week lol