Ep 1. Standing in the Dark

Standing in the Dark is the first episode of season 7 of Degrassi: The Next Generation. As the show's title suggests, this episode focuses on the struggles and challenges faced by a group of high school students as they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence.

The episode opens with a montage of various characters getting ready for their first day back at school. Emma, one of the show's main protagonists, is shown debating what to wear, while Manny, another key character, is seen fixing her hair in the mirror. Meanwhile, Spinner, a popular student who has had his fair share of run-ins with the law, is shown sneaking out of his house to avoid his mother's prying questions.

As the students arrive at Degrassi Community School, they are greeted by a new principal, Mr. Simpson, who has taken over from the previous principal, Ms. Hatzilakos. While initially resistant to change, many of the students soon warm up to Mr. Simpson, who proves himself to be a fair and compassionate leader.

The episode's main plot revolves around Spinner and his struggle with dark thoughts and depression. In the previous season, Spinner was diagnosed with testicular cancer and underwent surgery to remove one of his testicles. While he has since recovered physically, he is still struggling to come to terms with the emotional toll that the experience has taken on him.

Over the course of the episode, Spinner confides in a few of his closest friends about his struggles. While some of them are supportive, others are dismissive or even hostile. Realizing that he cannot keep his emotions bottled up anymore, Spinner eventually seeks professional help from the school counselor, who helps him work through his feelings of guilt and shame.

In addition to Spinner's storyline, the episode also deals with a number of other subplots, including a love triangle between Emma, Sean, and Peter; a conflict between Manny and her new boyfriend, Jay; and a rivalry between two groups of students who are vying for control of the school's social scene.

Overall, Standing in the Dark is a poignant and nuanced exploration of the challenges faced by teenagers in today's world. Through its relatable characters and authentic storytelling, the show shines a light on the complex and often overwhelming emotions that young people experience while trying to find their place in the world. Whether you're a longtime fan of Degrassi or a newcomer to the series, this episode is sure to resonate with you and leave you eagerly anticipating the rest of the season.