I actually believe people just like labels in these scenarios. Everything needs to be defined nicely and tied up with a bow. No room for interpretation and that's what's taking the life out of any type of media.

Allow people the room to put themselves in there instead of restricting access.

I absolutely agree with your take.

A big part of the problem is the constant quantifier of male friendships a la 'its not a gay thing but they hug a lot'. If we can just get rid of that kind of thinking then ultimately it won't matter whether it is or not.

And especially right now when more and more people speak out about how lonely they are I think it is important to embrace a dynamic that a lot of men especially only associate with romantic partners.