Ep 1. Resolutions

In the Season 2 premiere of Awkward, titled Resolutions, the story picks up after the tumultuous events of the previous season, where Jenna Hamilton, a high school student navigating the complexities of adolescence, finds herself at a crossroads in her journey of self-discovery. As the new year begins, Jenna is determined to embrace the resolutions she has made for herself, aiming to redefine her relationships, set new goals, and tackle the insecurities that have plagued her in the past.

The episode opens with Jenna reflecting on her past experiences, highlighting the lessons learned from her previous misadventures, particularly her struggles with identity and acceptance. With the arrival of the new school year, she is infused with a sense of hope and motivation, eager to make positive changes in her life and perhaps even rewrite her romantic narrative. Jenna’s resolutions become a key theme as she navigates the challenges of high school, friendships, and budding relationships, all while trying to remain authentic to herself.

Jenna's relationship with her friends also takes center stage in this episode. She finds herself reassessing those dynamics and trying to strengthen connections that seem fragile after the many ups and downs of their teenage lives. Her best friend Tamara continues to be her steadfast supporter, but the episode raises questions about loyalty, jealousy, and the complexities of teenage friendships. As the girls tackle their own resolutions, viewers will see them grapple with issues of self-esteem and social status—universal struggles that resonate with anyone who has faced similar situations during their formative years.

The resolution theme extends into the romantic sphere, where Jenna is confronted with her feelings for Matty McKibben and all the complications that come with them. As she resolves to be more assertive and honest about her desires, Jenna faces the daunting task of confronting her emotions head-on. Their chemistry is electrifying, but Jenna’s self-doubt and Matty’s own struggles with commitment add layers of tension to their relationship, making it a captivating subplot for viewers.

Meanwhile, Jenna’s relationship with her parents and her therapist, who is consistently misguided yet well-meaning, adds humor and depth to the episode. The show does an excellent job of showcasing the generational gaps and miscommunications that often arise between teenagers and their parents. Jenna’s mother, in her quest to be supportive, continues to navigate the tricky waters of parenting a teenager who wants to assert independence. This dynamic brings a light-heartedness to the episode, juxtaposing Jenna's more intense struggles with moments of familial warmth and comedic relief.

As the story unfolds, other characters, including Sadie and Jake, also introduce their own resolutions, adding layers to the overarching narrative. Sadie’s attempts to redefine her social status and Jake's pursuit of self-improvement add intrigue and complexity to the dynamics within the student body. Their actions and choices serve to challenge Jenna and push her outside of her comfort zone, leading to moments of growth and self-realization.

The writing in this episode strikes a balance between humor and heartfelt moments, capturing the awkwardness and uncertainty inherent in adolescence. The clever dialogue and relatable situations ensure that viewers feel connected to Jenna’s journey, as they are likely reminded of their own teenage experiences. The cinematography aids in immersing viewers in the high school setting, making the familiar corridors and social hotspots come alive with vibrant energy.

Overall, Resolutions marks an engaging start to Season 2 of Awkward. The challenges faced by Jenna and her friends highlight not just the typical teenage trials, but also the importance of understanding oneself, setting intentions, and the ever-present quest for acceptance in a chaotic world. With a mix of poignant moments and comedic interludes, the episode sets the stage for what promises to be a compelling season filled with growth, discovery, and, of course, plenty of awkward encounters along the way. Viewers are left eager to see how Jenna will navigate her resolutions, deal with her feelings for Matty, and maintain her friendships in the tumultuous realm of high school, making it a must-watch for fans of the series.