Sexual tension

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Sexual tension is a plot device employed in movies and books wherein two or more of the characters sexually long for one another, but the consummation of their desires is postponed or never occurs. This desire is often suggested by incidents of intimacy; for instance, when two characters are alone, are physically close, but desire is never explicitly expressed. It also might be suggested in dialogue, as in a subtle reference to a character's feelings.

The device creates a goal for the plot to advance; i.e., toward a resolution. Or it might create a subplot in the story that may or may not be resolved.

The device, when used by a skilled writer, evokes tension in the audience because of this private knowledge. In a generic movie, alternatively, sexual tension is often used and concluded with a love scene.

[edit] Famous Relationships

• Ross Geller and Rachel Green had a large amount of tension throughout the series Friends, as they dated and broke up almost every season. They even had a child together. In the series finale, the two finally resolved their relationship, getting together.

• Sam and Diane of Cheers also had sexual tension.
• Mulder and Scully of The X-Files had an oblique and implied sexual tension; some would argue that the sexual tension was inferred by the audience, and others would argue that it was intentionally implied by the producers and cast.
• Luke Danes and Lorelai Gilmore of Gilmore Girls had sexual tension.