#topmew raysand bostonnick

[talkingbl]

Only Friends Alignment Chart: Ep. 1 (aka Only Friends Evil Meter)

Top: Arrogant SOB but also hard to read. A lot of people straight up think he’s the devil incarnate (or, alternatively, worships the ground he walks on in light of TopMew), but I don’t quite get either conclusion. I genuinely can’t tell what he wants and feel suspicious of him either way. He just seems a little too practiced at this whole getting with Mew thing��� For now, Top is lawful evil.

Mew: He’s being set up as the type of guy who everyone thinks is kinder/smarter/better than other people, but is, in reality, just as flawed as everyone else. While he seems somewhat more wholesome than the others, he is exposing himself as a bit of a neglectful friend. For now, Mew is lawful good.

Ray: Hands-down the most infuriating character. My heart aches for people like Ray in real life who struggle with low self esteem and alcoholism. It’s Ray’s other actions and traits that get me. He’s so condescending and bratty (and not in a good way). He’s always thinking of himself first and not how his actions might impact his friends or other people. Ray gives chaotic evil.

San(d): I don’t know what to think about him besides that he’s an overall nice guy. He’s a little preachy at times but that type of stern, parent-like energy is exactly what Ray thinks he needs (assuming he does have daddy issues). It’s weird though because I feel like we got more RaySan(d) this episode than anything else, but San(d) still somehow feels like a side character while Top, Mew, Boston, and Ray feel much more fleshed out (though this is probably because most of his screen time is spent reacting to Ray rather than proactively moving the plot forward). He’s true neutral right now.

Boston: He is so evil-coded lmao. But honestly, I don’t know if it’s due to Neo’s portrayal or other factors, but I walked away from this episode feeling more sympathetic toward Boston than any other character. He seems like a complicated person who always gets in his own way. This doesn’t make him evil IMO, it just makes him human. He’s (controversial) chaotic neutral.

Nick: Okay so Nick comes off as chaotic good. He just seems like he’s really interested in Boston and is also a true freak. Much like Boston’s character, this does not make him evil. In truth, we’ve probably not seen enough of Nick to say one way or the other, but the babygirlism is strong with this one and I have no proof that he will try to hurt anyone so far.

Cheum: She reminds me so much of Sandee of KMA/DBK fame or Yihwa of TWM, if not a tad bit oblivious. She cannot read a room for shit but is trying her best in a friend group full of messy gays and dumbasses. She is relatively harmless but is the epitome of a side character that is more like a plot device than a true character as of now. She’s neutral good.

Yo: Lawful neutral until further notice.

[cornyonmains]

Something I've found disturbing about this episode was Top admitting he can't sleep alone, and a scene with him being very unable to respond well to Boston's cornering of him, despite the fact it's clear he wasn't really into it. Kind of feels like the show is setting up that Top's relationship with sex might be more complicated than just fuck boy status. It could very well be he's engaged in sex just for companionship without necessarily wanting it, which is a very interesting way to wade into the themes of consent and boundaries.

[earthfluuke]

Only Friends Ep. 12 + Kisses

[sirlancenotalot]

[spokenfromtheheartandsoul]

ngl boeing and boston showing up in the preview together for next week's episode had me laughing out loud because it just took me so off guard

like say what you will about the plot cohesion and character arcs etc. etc. and it's all fair! but also objectively i must admit that it is soooo funny to me that boeing was introduced to the show purely to be yeeted around from one couple to the next like he's Only Friends' gay version of a final boss level enemy that each pairing must battle against in order to win their happy relationship endgames

[thatgirl4815]

For me, this series is overflowing with cognitive dissonance.

I feel bad for Mew, but I'm frustrated that he would dive into a relationship with Ray that we can be fairly certain he doesn't really want. I love Ray and sympathize with his issues, but I hate what he's doing to Sand (and Mew, by agreeing to be with him in his emotionally vulnerable state). I hate Top for cheating on Mew, but I do genuinely think he loves Mew and wants to make it up to him. I love Sand but am also frustrated that he doesn't love himself enough to leave Ray. I feel bad for Nick but think his pain is kind of deserved because of his choice in men (and his infringement of privacy). I like Chuem for trying to be a peacekeeper, but her comments rub me the wrong way.

The only one I feel no dissonance over is Boston. Hate him through and through.

[lueurpark]

cheum deserves more screen time

[lunabug2004]

I watched Only Friends... and It Was Definitely An Experience! **SPOILERS**

I knew going into it that SandRay was the most popular Only Friends couple, at least that's what it seems like based on how many posts/edits there are about them over all of the internet, but it's so rightfully deserved!!!

I couldn't care less about TopMew, they were just pretty boring to me and I did not like Top at all. Mew was alright, though I will say I loved his petty revenge arc. BostonNick I thought was doomed from the start so I kinda made myself not get too into them? Nick is a sweetheart while also being a conniving little spy so I thought he was pretty fun and liked him a lot but, like Top, I hated Boston (basic of me, I know). But SandRay??? Loved every second! I think Ray is such an interesting character with so many layers and it's so fun to explore his life, and I absolutely fell in love with Sand. I love everything about him and he deserves nothing but to be able to attend all the music festivals in the world. Also quick shout out to Sand & Nick's friendship, it's so refreshing in this messy tree of relationships lol.

It's crazy to me that some people didn't enjoy SandRay as much, but some complaints I've seen are pretty valid tbh. I've seen people complain that the only reason people loved them so much more than the other couples is because they had the most screentime, and that's fair, but they also had the most to cover with their stories: both individually and together. I know this is fully on the writers, I've also seen people complain about SandRay being way more developed than the other characters. These complaints are extremely valid I feel, and I honestly believe they would've been better off doing either a show made up of three short series focusing on one pairing at a time or a show focusing on SandRay as the main couple (they have enough to their stories/story that alone it could take up a whole 12 episodes easily) with BostonNick and TopMew as sides with the possibility of getting their own series after (kinda like UWMA with BU even tho I know it's a different company). Either way, we got what we got with SandRay, and I, for one, enjoyed it thoroughly! I personally don't really understand what's not to like about their relationship, I thought it was at least mostly realistic and they suit each other so well it's insane.

Back to my complaints, I really hated the pool scene with Sand, Ray, and Boeing. Like, really hated it. Also the fact that Ray tried to say Sand was still in love with Boeing after the huge difference b/t the two kisses... was insane. I also disliked the scene with Ray and the therapist because no matter how sweet and also heartbreaking it is the second-hand embarrassment is the actual worst.

Now onto what I enjoyed: obv SandRay and Sand & Nick's friendship since I already mentioned those. I also enjoyed the way all the characters were connected in different ways, it was so much fun to untangle all the relationships! I like the way the show tackled alcoholism and made it realistic, as well as the way it tackled betrayal within the friend group (looking at you, 'Ton) in a realistic way.

Now, I have to mention the acting and chemistry between the couples. ForceBook was meh to me. This is the first thing I've seen them in it and they didn't really blow me away with their chemistry but I did enjoy their acting! I do think this is because I didn't really like the couple, so I'm not really holding it against them and I do plan to watch A Boss and A Babe at some point. NeoMark was very good! Both the chemistry and the acting. Neo has never been my favorite actor, (sorry if this is controversial) I like him fine but he never really blew me out of the water, he's just always done good, but this series he was insane! He played Boston so well he made most people hate him and that's always impressive when it's done by such a well-liked actor. I knew Mark was gonna kill it and he did. I love Mark. The chemistry b/t these two was surprising but enjoyable (speaking purely on what I saw as someone who skips through most saucy scenes). Now... FirstKhao. I expected everything from them and I got everything. I 1000% know that they are joining OffGun and GemFourth as one of my favorite pairings ever (who am I kidding they did that after I watched The Eclipse). Just the pure talent these two have is unreal and the chemistry is off the charts. The fight scenes broke me and the bonding scenes made me feel butterflies, just everything about them is perfection. Also wanna make a special comment on First b/c he has climbed my ranks as one of my favorite actors ever extremely quickly but I mostly see people talk about Khao, (which is so valid; man is insane as well, I just prefer First for whatever reason), but the way First plays all of his characters is so hypnotizing to me. Like the emotions he portrays and the way he completely transforms into his characters with his body language just impresses me so much. I'm def rambling now so it's time to wrap this up!

Anyways, putting aside others' complaints over the best couple SandRay, as well as my own complaints and compliments, I think overall it's a really good show and the drama is fun! So so messy but since it's all fiction it's fun to get sucked into! I'd tell anyone to give it a try at least!

Also wanna end this by saying if you disagree with me on any of this that's totally okay! All opinions are valid! Plus, I went into this with extreme actor bias towards FirstKhao (esp First), so that definitely tied towards my instant love for SandRay.

[justme-1723]

RANDOM ONLY FRIENDS THEORIES/THOUGHTS

- Sand will get tired of Ray’s shenanigans/not coming first in his life and take a step back. I think this might be where this mystery character comes into play (*the one he has a love scene with). Sand is my favorite character by a long shot and I just know he’s going to do something that disappoints me… I’m dreading it because I will call him out even though I love him dearly. Part of me thinks his lack of empathy/straight shooter attitude will get him into trouble. Sometimes he is TOO honest. On the flip side, I also think he feels things very deeply and this will not bode well because Ray is an addict. His heart will shatter. Not excited at all.

- Ray WILL absolutely lose his damn mind if he finds out about Sand sleeping with someone else (*maybe I’m wrong, but he just seems like the jealous type lol) I think he will push Sand away because falling in love with someone who has the capacity to love him back will terrify him. I think he will spend most of the series trying to convince himself and others that he doesn’t have REAL feelings for Sand. Poor babe. It’s okay Ray, I love you anyway. I do think he will be sober/starting his journey to sobriety by the finale too. I can’t wait for this part!

- I think we are missing some very vital information about Boston. I’m not sure what it could be… but I’m so worried about him. I know that may seem silly… sue me. He just gives me “I’m actually so fucking miserable and I hate myself uwu” vibes. Could be very wrong though lol. There is clear tension between him & Mew and I think there is a reason for that. One that might surprise us. Mew has made some shady comments about Boston & Boston doesn’t hold back when he talks about Mew to Top.

- Nick has no idea what healthy boundaries are. From the beginning, he has completely disregarded Boston’s right to privacy. Yes he’s cute and yes he’s young, but he has crossed every line imaginable (almost) and they aren’t even in a committed relationship. Boston isn’t obligated to be faithful. He doesn’t owe Nick any information about his sex life outside of their arrangement. Sigh. I think it will only get worse from here though… Revenge porn??… I hope not… I also think Nick just wants to be loved.

- Mew. There is something about Mew that I can’t quite wrap my head around. I was VERY surprised that he chose to use sex as a bargaining tool. It seemed very out of character for him. I love that he called Ray out for kissing him without his permission. It needed to be addressed and Mew handled it flawlessly. Which again, is why I was so shocked by his choices at the end of this latest episode… Ray calls him out yet again before he leaves, “Is Top really the kind of boyfriend you want?” This is the second time Ray has said something like this. Is Mew trying to prove something? Does it bother him that Ray of all people, the person he has very clearly said isn’t the type of boyfriend he wants, is the person pointing out that Top isn’t a good option either?

- Top is so complex. They all are really, but Top has so many layers and he isn’t as easy to read. (In my opinion) This ex is definitely important to him. I think he has some scars from that relationship. I also think there is some sort of hidden trauma that hasn’t been shared with us yet. His relationship with sex is all over the place. I can’t even begin to dissect that.

I have so many other thoughts swirling around in my brain, but they get so jumbled up lol. This probably makes no sense either, so have fun reading my nonsense. Or don’t. That’s cool too.

[always-inmyheartx]

Did anyone notice, that in episode 5 the question „can i ask you something?“ was asked three times, by Nick, by Mew and by Sand. And that the questions showed us what‘s really important for the three characters and their journey in the series till now.

Nick asked Boston if there are other people besides him right now. His biggest wish is to be the only person Boston sleeps with and to be loved by him.

Mew asked Top why he loves him. His goal the whole time was to test Top and to understand if he really loves him or if he just wants to sleep with him.

Sand asked Ray about his mother. He really cares deeply for him and wants to understand and to know everything about him.

I really found this interesting and maybe someone else noticed this too? :)

[prapaiwife]

The group had a live on yt today and the person asked their reactions to their characters in the last episode. We got some thumbs up and I don't know gesture lol happiness,tears, and khao is holding his heart out of relief or maybe happiness like ray is so happy he's overwhelmed Right!?🥹

[heretherebedork]

Ahem

Sex, drugs and laser tag.

[cornyonmains]

Top, Mew, and Boeing are my top contenders for a threesome. I don't know why, I just sense a disturbance in the Force.'

Ray talks a big game, but he went full Swat Kat when he saw Nick and Sand platonically cuddling. That boy could never.

Mew, on the other hand, has slutty librarian energy. This boy reads books on the cultural history of sex. He's built for it.

Boston and Nick are too obvious of a choice. Plus, Boston has Ray's energy. He's not as obvious about it, but he doesn't like the idea of Nick with other people. Boston laid on the manipulations REAL thick when Nick mentioned hooking up with someone else in the pool.

April and Cheum are my other contenders, but Thai BL would never.

[chicademartinica]

I’ve been asked in real life (gasps !!) to write what I meant when I said the only *good* kissing/sex we’ve seen in the first ep of OF was BostonNick.And that it was totally on purpose from Jojo and his team.

All we saw from Topmew is a show of Top’s skills. When Mew stops him his worry is that he is not « doing it good » ? That was skillful but was it sensual or meaningful ? Nope.

The same goes for Boston. Wether he is flirting or banging he is showing his skills. And what we saw is that he is a selfish lover. (I found the one night stand maaad selfish)Both these dudes are posturing. (The TopBoston scene we saw in the trailer was a performance on many levels)

I will include Ray in my take because fam, the way he asked Sand if they had sex WHEN HE WAS UNCONSCIOUS ? If Sand made him drink so he could have his way with him ? That he was okay with it since Sand was attractive ?!!! Rayray’s relationship with sex and intimacy is FRAUGHT. That’s not good.

Nick is nuts (Mew too) but he is a worshipful, horny and generous lover. I stand by the fact that he took that hoe by surprise and that the sex was amazing. The way he touched and kissed Boston ? Yes. The way he admired his body ? (He knew who TonTon was) And even though he will NEVER admit it that’s why he will go back to Nicky again and again.

From the trailer (also it’s First feline self) and the simple way he was rubbing Ray’s back when he was sick I will say this : Sand’s a good time.

[thisloveislikeabattle]

for no reason whatsoever my brain immediately assumed that the halloween party would happen towards the end of episode 8, or at least in the second half

the police arriving at the party and the problem with the drugs, along with all the theories about who called the cops and if anybody's gonna be arrested, feels to me like an end-of-episode moment. classic cliffhanger, right?

and maybe that's really how things are gonna happen but maybe not, because I noticed that some scenes in the preview for next ep can only make sense if we consider them happening after the party

that's way I have a little theory based on that:

1. this specific topmew scene

we can see them in their university clothes (idk how to call them, is there a better term?), in what kinda looks like a bathroom to me but that's not really important, so maybe they meet after class? I'm focusing on this because top's sentence leads me to believe this is after we get to actually see mew's bad state at the party

2. the nick and papang interaction

we don't know yet if nick's scenes with papang are actually related to nick's plan to earn boston's forgiveness, that's what the preview makes me think but the only friends previews have always been pretty deciveing on purpose. what really matters to me anyway is the shirt nick is wearing in that second scene tho, and the assumption that it also takes place after the party

3. sand starts to take some distance from ray

after the raymew dance scene, and the talk with ray outside yolo, we can see that sand is actually starting to walk away from ray– he's finally setting some boundaries, not letting ray walk all over him. those two scenes, both taking place at night, are the only sandray scenes we are shown– sand and ray are the only ones that don't have a daytime scene in the preview

now to my final theory, after considering all the above (and in case you're wondering, yes, the previous ones were points to give my main theory context and recipes) :

that sandray scene from the series' trailer

if the halloween party happens relatively early in the episode, and if the scenes we see of the guys in university are after that, we could finally have this 0:02 seconds scene from the trailer in our hands.

it all makes sense to me: ray showing how selfish and possessive he truly is as soon as he notices sand getting away, not caring at all about how he's been hurting him all this time– and we can see that from sand's expression.

also thinking about sand being like "we cannot be friends we were never friends" / "fuck it I'm gonna kiss this guy just because he's also dressed as freddie mercury" / "i'm not one of your options ray", at which point ray could start to realize sand really means it and be like "you're not going anywhere".

now, I don't know if anyone else had the same initial thought as me or if from the start it was pretty clear to everybody that some scenes are supposed to happen post-party– that wasn't my case tho so i wanted to share it even if in the end I might be totally wrong

[lost-my-sanity1]

pls pls pls do this. choose and write the reason why. I would really love to read your thoughts