Ep 20. The One With Rachel's Big Kiss

The One With Rachel's Big Kiss is the twentieth episode of the seventh season of the popular TV show Friends. As the title suggests, the episode revolves around Rachel's romantic encounters with another woman.

The episode begins with Joey trying to come up with a new stage name for himself, as he feels that his current name "Joseph" is too boring. He eventually settles on "Joseph the Processing Plant" after finding inspiration in a cereal box.

Meanwhile, Rachel's friend and former sorority sister, Melissa, comes to town for a visit. It quickly becomes clear that Melissa has a crush on Rachel and is interested in pursuing a romantic relationship with her. Rachel, who has never been with a woman before, is initially taken aback but eventually decides to explore her feelings for Melissa.

Chandler and Ross, who are initially skeptical of the idea, become increasingly supportive of Rachel's decision. However, things become complicated when Melissa tells Rachel that she's leaving town the next day and asks Rachel to come to her hotel room. Rachel is torn between her attraction to Melissa and her loyalty to Ross, whom she's been seeing on and off.

In the meantime, Joey and Chandler attend a hockey game, but Joey is disappointed when he realizes that he doesn't understand the rules of the game. Chandler tries to explain the game to him, but his explanations only leave Joey more confused.

Back at the hotel, Rachel goes to Melissa's room and they share a passionate kiss. However, Rachel quickly realizes that her feelings for Melissa are not as strong as she thought they were and decides to end things. Melissa is understandably upset, but Rachel assures her that she values their friendship and doesn't want to ruin it by pursuing a romantic relationship.

The episode concludes with Rachel and Ross reconciling and Joey revealing that he's changed his stage name to "Joseph Stalin." Chandler, horrified, suggests that Joey might want to reconsider.

Overall, The One With Rachel's Big Kiss is a touching and humorous exploration of a woman's first same-sex experience and the complications that can arise from exploring one's sexuality. The episode is notable for its sensitive portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes and its willingness to explore new territory within the framework of the show's established characters and themes.